I write often about how one of the joys of living in Japan is experiencing exceptional service, which is all the more amazing because there’s no custom of tipping here, which can be a frustration when you want to reward someone who went out of their way to provide exceptional service but can’t. The other day my wife wanted to buy some new glasses, so I went with her to her regular glasses store to see what new designs they’d gotten in. The Japanese take their megane seriously, and there were many styles in the shop, including frames by famous designers like Christian Dior and Bvlgari along with functional designs with more down-to-earth prices. The process of choosing the frames was impressive: we sat down at a counter and drank green tea while the employee, who knew my wife by name and was already familiar with her tastes, suggested different styles to try on. While she did this, another employee completely dis-assembled her existing glasses, replacing several parts that were worn out and tightening everything nicely for her. The coup de grâce came as we left the store, and the first employee rushed out into the street to bodily stop traffic for us, bowing deeply as we drove off. It was certainly an experience to remember.
The Japanese take their glasses very seriously.
