Tokyo. Capital of Japan, the largest metropolitan area of the country with almost nine million inhabitants divided among 23 special wards. Part of a conglomeration home to more than 35 million people. One of the biggest cities in the world. Moreover, home to millions of signs and neon lights, drawing attention and reaching out to (potential) customers day and night in a city that never sleeps.

The most striking signs are those translated from Japanese into English. Interesting, puzzling and/or funny are the best words to describe some of these signs I guess. In response to several requests, below is a small selection of those instances where I encountered interesting signs (while also carrying a camera with me). Mata ne.

“Smile is best make up”. Inspirational and uplifting message when leaving the train station after just having been ‘stuck’ in a very, very crowded train.

Can’t… change.

In the Oedo Onsen Monogatari in Odaiba I encountered the following message about the use of lockers. During the entire stay at the onsen (‘bathing facilities’) I was immensely worried my locker would be stolen…

Last but certainly not least, a poster found in one of the numerous trains and subways criss crossing Tokyo and its surroundings. Please… do it at home!