Escalator Pitch: Shin Yokohama

We have traveled through Japan all day, with a lot of luggage, and a large demo kit in an outsize box. Finally at Shin Yokohama station, we are confronted by a staircase, and ask if there is an escalator or elevator we can take. A Ticket Collector directs us to a turnstile. Beyond that, we see an escalator going up – and a cab rank downstairs. We think there is a mistake, and ask the girl at the counter. She says Chotto Matte Kudesai (please wait a moment) and heads down a flight of steps. We see a policeman stop the traffic on the escalator. When it is clear, she turns a key and hits some buttons. The escalator stops, then changes direction! Arigato Guzaimasu!!! Japanese kindness is just incredible.

My boss remarks : ‘Try getting that done in New York!!!’