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Sign of the Times

One of the techniques we use to understand a culture is to document signage, looking for clues as to what is acceptable or not acceptable in society or context. Of course most people don't read most signs, and even if they do they don't necessarily obey them, but it all helps to shape our understanding.

My all time favourite signs (geeky, no?) are both from China: no explosives, in train station in Hangzhou; and no spitting from billboard next to bus stop in Shanghai - where the spit was shaped like a bomb. Will try to dig them up later.

Writing from Tokyo | June 20, 2005 | Permalink