Before I tell you the story, lets have a quick lesson in "Kanji" first. Kanji are symbols that originate from China. Each symbol has a meaning. For example, the symbol for "Big" and the symbol for "Person" combined means "adult". The symbol for "small" and the symbol for "Person" combined means "child". Basic knowledge of "kanji" is essential for getting around Japan, as you will see in my story.
When I first visited Japan I had a basic knowledge of "Kanji" and could speak a little Japanese. I was visiting a friend in Tokyo, when I decided to venture out on my own in search of a "Sento". Which is the word for a public bath. When I found the public bath, I took my shoes off and entered. To my surprise, a elderly woman was sitting on a tall chair with a clear view of both the "Men's Locker Room" AND "Woman Locker Room"! Behind her was a sign in "Kanji". 300 Yen for "Adult" (big + person) and 100 Yen for "Child" (small + person). I paid her the 300 yen and reluctantly entered the locker room. As I was undressing, I noticed she was staring at me! I thought perhaps she doesn't see many naked Americans much. Suddenly, she gestured to me, indicating for me to come over to her. Have I done something wrong? As I approached her, she reached into the cash register and returned 200 Yen back!
