I love all things Japanese :). And I love anti-socializing tables. Japanese universities in Kyoto and Kobe have installed "lonely seats" in their cafeteria for students wishing to avoid social situations. The seats have a large divider in the center of the table for privacy. Apparently the university has it's fair share of students who do not want to socialize during lunch making seating at open tables uncomfortable. The seats became very popular after their installation. Students can now eat lunch in peace. The "boochi seki" seats don't offer protection from a person sitting beside you, so of course there is still a risk of unwanted chatter. Apparently in Japan, social outcasts or those who keep to themselves are quite common, known as "the hikikomori". I love this idea! Why does every meal have to be a social hour? I also found another solution to dining alone in Japan. It's safe to say, many people feel a bit uncomfortable dining alone in an actual restaurant (not cafeteria). The Moomin Café in Tokyo has found a solution. The wait staff kindly seats unaccompanied patrons across from a giant stuffed animal in hopes to easing their discomfort. I am unsure if it's acceptable to enjoy a nice conversation with the fluffy stranger or not :). For a person similar to me.. these are WONDERFULLY strange spots.
No comments:
Post a Comment