The bicycle, or bike, is the most popular means of transportation in the world. This two-wheeled, human-powered and pedal-driven machine has provided effects on society’s culture and some methods in industrial manufacturing. In Japan, bikes are widely used by young and old of all genders and social status. They are best suited for running errands and making short trips in the city and rural areas. *Japanese bike riders are treated the same way as vehicles under Japanese Road Traffic Laws.
Most bikes are equipped with a basket and rack and an extra seat if you’re driving with a child.
In Osaka City, bikes are very common even in crowded city streets. When offices take their closing hours, bikes crowd the sidewalks and together with the human traffic they cross the streets with the pedestrians. Some buildings are provided with bicycle parking spaces. During office hours, sidewalks seem to be a lonely place to walk on.
Japan is a safe city and I really like to return for the snowfall and the cherry blossoms.
*some info from wiki*
bottleofrhum 
We saw this during our vacation in France this year too! We especially enjoyed seeing the elegant Parisian women, sitting erect (and not wearing helmets) pedaling along during the morning rush hour traffic. There they have community-owned bikes that can be rented and dropped off at stations near one’s destination, in parking places like you picture here. Hopefully this will spread across the world!
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Bill, thanks for the comment….I was really amazed at the sight of the bike riders of all ages. Sometimes we’re surprised to see bikes behind us without a noise. Most don’t “honk” their whistle or bells, they just passed us. They have mastered the art of driving the bikes. Thank you again Bill for your time.
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