My husband and I had the experience of leaving his backpack on a regional train last year. We didn’t panic, as we were in Japan, whose reputation for being a respectful culture was made
known to us, pre-
travel. The station officer and our hotel staff kept us informed after we’d reported our error. The train was on its way to its final destination, where it would be cleaned and inspected…and when they could report it found. They offered to return it to us at our hotel Matsumoto when the train returned the following day As we had plans for a short stay there, we opted to retrieve it ourselves. I had a beautiful unscheduled trip through the mountains and successfully brought the backpack to my husband. We loved our time in Japan . We encourage everyone who asks us to make the trip.
Very useful post, Andrew - thank you! Like everywhere, Japan has its strengths and weaknesses, its pros and cons; but this lost-and-found culture and respect for property is definitely a big check on the "Pro" side of the ledger!
My husband and I had the experience of leaving his backpack on a regional train last year. We didn’t panic, as we were in Japan, whose reputation for being a respectful culture was made
known to us, pre-
travel. The station officer and our hotel staff kept us informed after we’d reported our error. The train was on its way to its final destination, where it would be cleaned and inspected…and when they could report it found. They offered to return it to us at our hotel Matsumoto when the train returned the following day As we had plans for a short stay there, we opted to retrieve it ourselves. I had a beautiful unscheduled trip through the mountains and successfully brought the backpack to my husband. We loved our time in Japan . We encourage everyone who asks us to make the trip.
Yes, this is one of the many reasons Japan is such a great destination. Seems like a mishap turned into a highlight! Thanks for sharing.
Great insights Andrew. Thanks. Let's hope this trend prevails over time.
Very useful post, Andrew - thank you! Like everywhere, Japan has its strengths and weaknesses, its pros and cons; but this lost-and-found culture and respect for property is definitely a big check on the "Pro" side of the ledger!
Happy travels!