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Facial Expressions are the Turn Signals of Cyclists

The options for human interaction that are possible when there is no car frame shielding you from the next person. The extent to which interaction takes place. To what extent does social engagement in these kind of contexts differ between cultures? An example of a more socially interactive daily travel? Ho Chi Minh City. When there are between 1 and 4 people perched on a moped they need something look at when they stop at the lights.

I've only had two talk-to-your-neighbour experienes in Tokyo: suit and tied foreign missionaries who head to Shibuya to spread their word and thought they could make an early start; and when I first arrived - the policeman who asked why I had stopped at a red traffic light. It's mostly acceptable for bicycles to sail through minor traffic junctions - something I've taken to heart since being here.

Are facial expressions the turn signals of cyclists? I've noticed a number of the more old skool Tokyo bike couriers using body language to warn oncoming pedestrians/traffic of their intended route. And RG - the Iro arrived, cheers.

Writing from Ginza | September 9, 2006 | Permalink