Even the taxis are a shining example of pristinity. (I am starting to speak "Janglish") We have often seen cab drivers polishing their wheels while waiting for a fare.

When I think of the cab that drove us to the airport in San Francisco, with its ceiling black as though it had been transporting yaks to and from the zoo, wads of gum and various unidentifiable detritus on the floorboards, and the cabby's assortment of pens protruding from holes in the headliner...I just have to wonder what goes through the mind of a Japanese businessman when he is obliged to insert his immaculate self into such a vehicle upon arrival in the US.

It is frowned upon to speak poorly of one's own country of residence while in Japan, is seen as insincere flattery of the Japanese, and reflects extremely poorly upon the speaker.

But PEOPLE...! When it comes to cleanliness of public places they clearly have us beat. Just don't tell them I said so.