Saying Goodbye to Japan's TINIEST SHOP - 43 years IN A BOX: ua-cam.com/video/nA1UNJirOTI/v-deo.html Thanks so much to everyone who made this fun little evening possible!! *huge love to that notification squad!* But the REAL question is.... a) Do you have anything like this in your country? and... b) Did I Really drink the strong zero? lol
A) closest thing is probably Uber 😂 but they don’t drive your car. B) I’d assume at least a little bit of it based off how you were shaking it without spilling any lol
Public transporation always do the trick here. If you can't take a bus, you can always grab a taxi. So. There's no really need of something like that and I don't think it exists here.
Where I live in Alberta we have "driver take home" services but the rates are easily 5-10x the rate of what you would have paid. Probably because they show up with two people in a separate follow car instead of that clever fold down bike which would make it a way more efficient operation. I wish we had more cost effective services like this as people driving after having too many is disturbingly common here. Better / cheaper services would help people make the right decision. Also lol I'd have probably taken a pass on finishing the strong zero.
Its cool to see how this service works, I’m sure this guy brings a very unique element. Most Japanese businesses are on such a ‘polite’ level of professionalism, it must be nice to chat more casually with customers
@@Paulxl hes talking about the driver. He is not drunk, but speaks more similarly to a European or North American etc compared to somebody born and raised in Asia. Many people in Asia (other than certain countries, namely SEA and Russia) are difficult to get past the stage of proper, small talk, unless you're a true friend. This guy is very jolly and casual, doesnt really follow the culture-shocking etiquette/societal norms(?) that many Japanese workers do. Guys an absolute chiller.
Haha very surprised to get that comment liked by the man himself. Just found your channel and so far I'm loving it. Keep it up. Edit: damn he unliked it :( what
@@ownzies100 editing your comment will delete the like, that is to prevent UA-camrs liking a comment that has been edited to be offensive or self advertising
"This hill is steep like the hill of life." I really love that line. It warms my heart that there are people out there like this man, just being their best selves and living life.
This is also a service in the netherlands. Two people will come in a car and drive you home and the other car will follow. Its also a safety measure and able to bring multiple people home if the car was full at the start so nobody gets left behind.
@@swat3563 it's often done by taxi companies. Because if they need to carry people in the 'company' car, that car has to be a taxi to be able to legally transport people for payment. So you basically end up paying the price of a taxi, plus the salary for the second driver on top. So a rough estimate would be 2/3 on top of the normal taxi fare. So it's not something I'd plan on doing, but as a last resort kind of thing, any random taxi company will happily do it for you.
As someone who lived in Japan, Okinawa to be exact. But at an extremely young age, I was amazed at all the beer vending machines and alcohol made available, to what seemed like anyone. But there was never anyone drunk in public, nor drinking and driving. It's crazy how respectful they are
@@techjay2214 100% for Marijuana, even if you didnt have any, they just hold you forever until you admit you had some and boom you go to jail for 10 years or so.
@@techjay2214 I didn't want to get into specifics of why one society or another might be better in which ways :) Let's just say there is no perfect place.
You didn't stay out late into the night enough, lol. Especially on footpaths between all the business buildings to the food stalls and konbinis. You can frequently spot at least one drunk salaryman shuffling home from work especially on weekend.
Seeing him ride in on his little foldable e-bike was adorable, and he seems to have such a nice personality, someone you could easily get along with as he helps you out
He must have so many weird and funny stories after working in that kind of service for 15 years. I love how you take the time to showcase not only the cool things themselves but also the people behind it. It really makes you want to sit down and just listen to these people talk for hours...
This is an awesome service! Can't say I've heard of another service like it. I also loved the part about the Porsche and "The Porsche of Japan" Kei truck. As a US car guy I can say with confidence that a lot of people love Kei trucks here. I would love to get one some day haha
Thats certainly an interesting way to go about it. Glad he is making such an effort to help drunk people. He really seems like the kinda guy that really infects you with his positive attitude.
Char Daiko is such an amazing example of just being yourself and doing what you want to do. What an awesome character and great person for setting something like that up!
Exactly. This service should a world wide thing. Every country should either have a private company or a government funded service that acts in this way. Doesn't outlaw drinking but provides safe ways of overcoming obstacles while inebriated. Genius.
What might work well in Japan could elsewhere just be some poor bloke putting himself at risk for a bit of cash trying to drive people home from dodgy neighbourhoods.
I love that you can tell how he’s such a friendly person. You can tell that he takes pride in his bike and the love of Gundam. It’s a pretty cool service because of instead of leaving your car and getting a taxi and then going back the next morning you don’t have to worry that your car is not there. Definitely should be more services like it. Love the video showing another one of Japan’s quirky services
Japan is indeed a very fascinating country. You’ll be able to encounter so many great and reliable people who all have fairly unique life experiences. Drunk driving seems risky in general. As much as possible, we must always ensure we’re all safe while on the road.
Another interesting one... It's always a good day when Norm posts.. This should be a thing everywhere.. Speaking as a person with disability this would make it a whole lot safer for folks like me
As someone who was always the sober one at parties in my teens and early 20s, I feel a lot of solidarity with this man when he talks about hearing a lot that he does not need to know 😂
i never even knew something like this exists, the rest of the world definitely needs this type of service! i love him already, hes so charismatic, funny, and without doubt makes you feel safe especially if you were out drinking. and damn that bike costs what now 💀
The rest of the world has this type of service. It's been in London for at least 2 decades now, pretty sure it started there and is in other major worldwide cities
as i've gotten older i 've slowly realized that the people i like the most are genuinely nice people. most people act politely in public but that's nowhere near the same as being genuinely nice and someday i'd like to be genuinely nice myself.
As someone who is usually the designated driver for my friends, even when I'm not out with them, I can say there is definitely a market for that in a lot of countries.
My town had a service like this. Two guys would show up, one would drive your car and the other would follow. Funny enough the business closed after the "sober" guy got a DUI while driving a customers vehicle.
Sounds like an incident that happened in my hometown. Rapid City SD. "Scooters" it was called I believe. Only lasted one summer tourist season if I remember right.
I find more than the touristy videos about Japan you can get everywhere these days, I really enjoy the personal stories more, or just the unique characters you've managed to find over the years, like the man who lives in the former school, the tiny Akihabara shop, the scarecrow village and the weird apartments that introduced us to Okazaki-san.
I think people that do this kind of work need to get more recognition! I imagine this to be a very tiring job, and as the said many people depend on a car in the countryside. It seems like he is very passionate about his job though! And that he even took the time to show you some good spots. Such a lovely person! :)
This guy is freaking awesome! I don't think you can do this anywhere else, other than in Japan. The culture and the people are just... different, in the best way possible.
Interesting, and actually a really good idea with the bike so you don't have to worry about leaving your car behind somewhere. He's obviously in demand with so many calls!
@@TokyoLens he should downgrade to a Honda Motocompo, the 2 stroke small motorcycle that folds like a briefcase, that way he won't have to worry about batteries and charging..
A local guy tried setting up this service 15 years ago here in my town in Ireland and was shut down before it started because of insurance what a pity as it’s a great service
@@theluckyjoghurt981 I'm no expert but I imagine insurance companies don't/don't want to cover strangers driving your car and all the obstacles that potentially could come from that.
Any potential large scale disruption in current financial flow of revenue stream will get shutdown unless it’s backed by larger influential venture capitalists same with Uber/lift. They weren’t the first car share idea, they were just the ones who were able to successfully push it through all the red tape which is a part of business.
He looks like a super hero in that outfit, well... he's saving people literally so yes he is. Good health and business to this guy and more customers to come.
I love how this guys service stands out from the rest with his charismatic personality and neon flair. Would love to hear the many stories he must have. Thanks for sharing this service with the masses. Hopefully it curbs drinking and driving.
What a splendid idea . Here in Canada we have Operations Red Nose during the holiday season but they come in their own car and drive you home but the next morning you have to figure out how to get back to your car . With this service you don’t have to worry about that . Love his cheerfulness and can see how he enjoys his work
Morning, Norm! This is fantastic! They had something similar at Oktoberfest where some guys had a business giving you a ride home in their car, and a second driver would follow behind in your car. Gotta say, this guy is 1000% more fun than somewhat creepy guys in a German hall parking lot.
This is actually hilarious, the Kei truck being the Porsche of Japan was a trip. I’ve never heard of a service like this and I think it’d do phenomenally in a place like where I live(Las Vegas NV btw). I swear I’d be using it if I knew of any, it’s one of the reasons I hardly ever drink 😂 I’m always driving.
That was a fun video. I always love when you meet people who have interesting professions. My favorite one is still the people who empty the storage lockers in big cities. That would be a dream job for me. 😁
I live out in a rural part of Japan, so the daiko drivers here show up in a car with two drivers (one for your car and one for theirs). An interesting thing I learned is that you *have* to ride in your own car because daiko services are legally different from taxi services and can't carry passengers in their own cars.
We've got a "Drink & Drive" service in Czech Republic (Europe), where two people arrive with their own car, one drives your car, while the other follows. It's usually about the same money as you would pay for a slightly more expensive taxi, especially long distances. But it is readily available in the cities
I've heard of similar services in my country (South Africa), given the lack of usable public transport services it makes sense to have such a service (everyone uses cars to get around). Also, something about starting the video by downing a strong zero (whether for real or not) made me laugh! Awesome video as always
Long time viewer but only recently starting to comment: I love that services like these are accessible in Japan. I'm not sure if there's anything similar in the US but it would make me feel safer being driven home in my own car
This should be everywhere honestly. Not only you don't have to worry about leaving the car back at the city centre after a little too much drinks, but it would also improve the road safety of every country. An absolute W.
I think the closest thing we have to that type of service is Operation Nez Rouge which is usually in service during the holidays when folks have been out partying. Although it hasn't really been in service much the past couple of years. But I can see how in smaller cities this might be a very useful service! That guy has an awesome liiking e-bike! :D Can't miss him on the road!! :D
I've always though someone should get a tow truck and offer a "We get you and your car home" sort of service, but this is a way better way to do it with a small bike that can fit in most cars.
@@LuckyCharms777 Yeah the city I used to live in had free tow you home from the bar nights on some holidays. There were limits as you couldn't expect to get a +50 mile tow etc but it was enough to get home for the vast majority of people.
Starting out a video with a Strong Zero is always a good vibe 😂 In all seriousness, this is a really smart service to provide. I respect him for putting in the time and effort to help clients get themselves (and their cars) home safely because it helps keeps everyone else safe as well
I love seeing how different people find ways to make a living while doing things they seem to enjoy. This gentleman seems to really love providing this service to people. So neet.
This is such a good idea! I’m surprised this isn’t a thing in other countries (as far as I’m aware). I guess in other countries people might be wary of letting a stranger drive their car and also meeting up with a stranger while drunk, it could end badly. I feel like if someone started doing this with people they know and then they recommend the service to other people, they could build up a reputation and people would feel safe enough to use the service without knowing them.
As somebody who rode a foldable bike for a few years for interships and work I am very envious of the bike he cam riding in with. Heard of this service once on a podcast but very cool to see how it actually works. Which they had this service here would've made some nights out with friends a lot more fun.
this is crazy! I wish they had something like this in three United States. it's insane how strict they are in Japan and I wish it was like that here too. there's too many accidents and fatalities due to impaired driving and it's so unfortunate. thank you for sharing this service
This is so cool! The US definitely needs this. I mean, we can call Ubers and taxis, but I’ve been out with my boyfriend before in a place far from the city and we needed to Uber back to his house and there were no Ubers available or they costed like $100 😳
I'm on my third day of another Tokyo Lens binge-watching and every one of them is brilliant. Really do love the vids where you follow the people of Japan and I'm so impressed with how they all communicate with you. When setting these up, you must be as wonderful and full of life behind the camera as you are for all of us. Though thinking about it you are genuine, respectful and entertaining on the TLE channel when I get a chance to see you there live
I usually watch your content but i don't really comment but now I'm going to binge watch them all and leave my prints wherever I go ! Keep making great videos ❤️
The Porsche of Japan!! 🤣 That had me rolling! This service seems really smart. I don't think there's anything like this where I live, but could be wrong. Most people I think would just take an Uber at that point, but hard to say. He seemed so friendly and fun! Thanks for the video Norm!!!
Very cool. Unfortunately, living in a rural, conservative area of Japan, we don’t have many characters like that around. Kei-trucks on the other hand, lllllots of ‘em. 😆 🍻
Hi Norm I've been watching you since about 2 years, but I don't really comment on any UA-cam channel, but I love the Japanese experiences that you bring to people around the world.
What a fantastic concept! I’ve never heard of this kind of service, but we live semi-rurally and this would be really useful since we have to drive everywhere 😅
We have this service in Prague, it is called "Blue Angel". I used it couple of times, it is the same price as one way taxi so you actually safe money :D
Love these strong policies they should be worldwide. Amazing thank you Char for your kind and smart effort to keep drunk drivers off the road. You truly go above and beyond to keep the roads safe
Yeah, a sip of wine and you're a danger to society. Perfectly reasonable. Some countries even have a zero tolerance policy (the smartest kind), so mouthwash or a chocolate can land you in jail.
I am so happy that this video answered my question of how these drivers for drunks get back home!! So many k-dramas failed to mention it and I don't know the name of it to research it. Thank you!
I started this video with a "huh, that's really interesting" but subbed bc you were so nice to that man. Thanks for this content and for your kind heart.
It would be interesting to sit down and have a beer with him (on his day off of course!) and have him regale the many stories I'm sure he has from his 15 year career!
my man has good taste in cars, Porsche 911 and Kei trucks? incredible. but for real what he's doing for people is awesome! keeping the people drinking safe and the community drunk drivers could hurt safe is so thoughtful 🥰
Daiko in Misawa would be a taxi with 2 drivers. They come, the second driver drives you home in your car while the other driver in the taxi follows you. It was about twice as expensive, but SUPER worth the convenience!
Starting my trek through all your videos I've watched, and didn't make any comments mainly out of laziness. I love Gundam, so it was great to see this guy driving around in a Char cosplay. I have a few different anime hats/pins/shirts I wear at a game store I work at when I get the chance, so know wearing something you love while working makes everything a little bit more fun.
I was literally looking for another japanese channel and this one was prefect. Coming from the japan flight giveaway and I am literally going to watch almost all your videos (being too optimistic but ill try)
Loving the videos! I’ve been binge watching through your videos to get an idea of where I’d like to visit in Japan when I go. It’s interesting Japan has people like this who drive you home when your intoxicated. It’s pretty ingenious! Keep up the good work.
I remember when I was in Yokohama when Sakurajima erupted 1999/2000, don't remember exactly the year, but it was crazy with all the earthquakes...the headlight guy is such a character.
Saying Goodbye to Japan's TINIEST SHOP - 43 years IN A BOX: ua-cam.com/video/nA1UNJirOTI/v-deo.html
Thanks so much to everyone who made this fun little evening possible!! *huge love to that notification squad!*
But the REAL question is....
a) Do you have anything like this in your country? and...
b) Did I Really drink the strong zero? lol
We do have this in Singapore. They have posters advertising the service plastered all over the toilet at Bars, Clubs, Pubs, etc...
A) closest thing is probably Uber 😂 but they don’t drive your car.
B) I’d assume at least a little bit of it based off how you were shaking it without spilling any lol
Public transporation always do the trick here. If you can't take a bus, you can always grab a taxi. So. There's no really need of something like that and I don't think it exists here.
Where I live in Alberta we have "driver take home" services but the rates are easily 5-10x the rate of what you would have paid. Probably because they show up with two people in a separate follow car instead of that clever fold down bike which would make it a way more efficient operation. I wish we had more cost effective services like this as people driving after having too many is disturbingly common here. Better / cheaper services would help people make the right decision.
Also lol I'd have probably taken a pass on finishing the strong zero.
for the b, not knowing it was Tuesday ... I'd go with at least half the can.
That Char cosplay makes him 3 times faster than his competitor!!
What an amazing guy helping drunk people and also help the public safety.
Love this guy!
@@TokyoLens His attitude was really fun to watch. I like him and I haven't met him.
I was legit not excepting the Char cosplay. Ended up with a huge grin on my face. ♥
never doubt the speed of the infamous red comet... zieg daiko!
I noticed that right away. Ahaha char's helping people
Its cool to see how this service works, I’m sure this guy brings a very unique element. Most Japanese businesses are on such a ‘polite’ level of professionalism, it must be nice to chat more casually with customers
Tbh I don't think they are on the "polite level of professionalism" when they are drunk.
I don't know...it's depend on how many beer they are drinking
@@Paulxl hes talking about the driver. He is not drunk, but speaks more similarly to a European or North American etc compared to somebody born and raised in Asia. Many people in Asia (other than certain countries, namely SEA and Russia) are difficult to get past the stage of proper, small talk, unless you're a true friend. This guy is very jolly and casual, doesnt really follow the culture-shocking etiquette/societal norms(?) that many Japanese workers do.
Guys an absolute chiller.
Haha very surprised to get that comment liked by the man himself. Just found your channel and so far I'm loving it. Keep it up.
Edit: damn he unliked it :( what
@@ownzies100 editing your comment will delete the like, that is to prevent UA-camrs liking a comment that has been edited to be offensive or self advertising
As a massive Gundam fan, I did not expect Char on a bike driving people home to be a video I ever watched. But I'm happy it was!
hahaha really makes your day eh? haha
Gotta have a side gig while keeping a low profile from the Feddies when planning your next attack on Earth.
Zieg Zeon.
We see the red commet himself driving people around.
"I came here to drive for you"
nahhh thats clearly Quattro Bajina
The driver is such a chill dude, he's helping drunk people get home and keeping the public safe. I wish him many more safe travels
"This hill is steep like the hill of life." I really love that line. It warms my heart that there are people out there like this man, just being their best selves and living life.
This is also a service in the netherlands. Two people will come in a car and drive you home and the other car will follow. Its also a safety measure and able to bring multiple people home if the car was full at the start so nobody gets left behind.
Whats the name? i'm studying in the netherlands
@@swat3563 i have no clue what the name is but i bet it's way to expensive here hahah.
@@swat3563 it's often done by taxi companies. Because if they need to carry people in the 'company' car, that car has to be a taxi to be able to legally transport people for payment. So you basically end up paying the price of a taxi, plus the salary for the second driver on top. So a rough estimate would be 2/3 on top of the normal taxi fare. So it's not something I'd plan on doing, but as a last resort kind of thing, any random taxi company will happily do it for you.
this exists in Los Angeles, except only the Koreans know about it. lol.
@@swat3563 rent a bob
As someone who lived in Japan, Okinawa to be exact. But at an extremely young age, I was amazed at all the beer vending machines and alcohol made available, to what seemed like anyone. But there was never anyone drunk in public, nor drinking and driving. It's crazy how respectful they are
Big cultural differences! Pros and cons, as with all things.
@@emissarygw2264 fr look at their convictions rate
@@techjay2214 100% for Marijuana, even if you didnt have any, they just hold you forever until you admit you had some and boom you go to jail for 10 years or so.
@@techjay2214 I didn't want to get into specifics of why one society or another might be better in which ways :) Let's just say there is no perfect place.
You didn't stay out late into the night enough, lol. Especially on footpaths between all the business buildings to the food stalls and konbinis. You can frequently spot at least one drunk salaryman shuffling home from work especially on weekend.
This needs to be a thing EVERYWHERE! Also the fact that Char Daiko is a Kei Truck stan truly means he's a man's man.
Right?? Imagine how many people someone like this could save, in terms of traffic tickets _and_ accidents, in a place like Las Vegas or Los Angeles.
Get a taxi or get sober driver or better yet, don't drink and drive really.
@@tt-ez6eq or at least have a glass of water and a chewing gum before you go! Closing one eye from time to time helps the blurryness.
As someone who owns a kei car in America and has kei truck friends can confirm. Man's man!
it is a thing everywhere... has been for like 30 years
Seeing him ride in on his little foldable e-bike was adorable, and he seems to have such a nice personality, someone you could easily get along with as he helps you out
He must have so many weird and funny stories after working in that kind of service for 15 years. I love how you take the time to showcase not only the cool things themselves but also the people behind it. It really makes you want to sit down and just listen to these people talk for hours...
Man the cosplay part makes it do much more appealing than just a regular taxi. And also the fact you can drive to the location yourself.
Japan is a heavy drinking culture, so I'm glad to see that they are extremely strict when it comes to drunk driving.
This isn’t like a Uber or taxi. Whole point you’re able to bring your car back
Love the idea. Being a passenger in your own car is always a weird feeling!
So weird! Haha
This dude has me smiling ear to ear. I want so bad to go to Japan now.
You're in luck. Japan's opening back up to international visitors on the 11th
I’ve wanted to go so bad🥲 saving up to go for a little trip 😃
@@ALexpWTFISTHAT yeahhhh i'd rather go to North Korea since the tour is practically the same.
@@P3trarch you hit your head or something?
@@P3trarch No, the tours are over now. You're free to roam as a free traveler in japan now. Look it up.
I love the performative aspect with his costume but also the fact that this actually a sensible and necessary solution to an actual problem
This is an awesome service! Can't say I've heard of another service like it. I also loved the part about the Porsche and "The Porsche of Japan" Kei truck. As a US car guy I can say with confidence that a lot of people love Kei trucks here. I would love to get one some day haha
When he says "I've learned ignorance is truly bliss!" I laughed hard, he has seen things.
considering all his customers are drunk yeah he has.
This is such an amazing service to offer! He also seems like a super nice guy.
really is!!
He’s like a superhero saving many life’s at a time one by one, I’m hoping one day to go to Japan to experience this ❤️
'life's'?........wow! 😣
Thats certainly an interesting way to go about it. Glad he is making such an effort to help drunk people. He really seems like the kinda guy that really infects you with his positive attitude.
What an absolutely lovely guy, he takes his role as the designated driver so seriously that he even has to have fun as part of it. A legend.
Char Daiko is such an amazing example of just being yourself and doing what you want to do. What an awesome character and great person for setting something like that up!
Nothing like the character though lmao
The amount of sheer appreciation of another person's existence in this video is something we can all strive for.
This service is so smart and useful and could literally save people lifes! More countries need to have this IMO 👍
Exactly. This service should a world wide thing. Every country should either have a private company or a government funded service that acts in this way. Doesn't outlaw drinking but provides safe ways of overcoming obstacles while inebriated. Genius.
@@Enoughdata Uber?
@@Dorfess Suber? A sober Uber driver for your car, to get you and your car home.
@@Dorfess You can't bring your car with uber
What might work well in Japan could elsewhere just be some poor bloke putting himself at risk for a bit of cash trying to drive people home from dodgy neighbourhoods.
I love that you can tell how he’s such a friendly person. You can tell that he takes pride in his bike and the love of Gundam. It’s a pretty cool service because of instead of leaving your car and getting a taxi and then going back the next morning you don’t have to worry that your car is not there. Definitely should be more services like it. Love the video showing another one of Japan’s quirky services
This little man is one of the most humble people I've seen in a long time. We must protect him at all times and let nothing ever happen to him.
Level-headed, fun, knowledgeable, discreet, safe... I mean, this guy is the friend we all need from time to time. Very cool!
Japan is indeed a very fascinating country. You’ll be able to encounter so many great and reliable people who all have fairly unique life experiences. Drunk driving seems risky in general. As much as possible, we must always ensure we’re all safe while on the road.
Hello 👋
WHY R U HERE TOO BRO
Another interesting one... It's always a good day when Norm posts.. This should be a thing everywhere.. Speaking as a person with disability this would make it a whole lot safer for folks like me
Really wish it was!
As someone who was always the sober one at parties in my teens and early 20s, I feel a lot of solidarity with this man when he talks about hearing a lot that he does not need to know 😂
i never even knew something like this exists, the rest of the world definitely needs this type of service! i love him already, hes so charismatic, funny, and without doubt makes you feel safe especially if you were out drinking. and damn that bike costs what now 💀
The rest of the world has this type of service. It's been in London for at least 2 decades now, pretty sure it started there and is in other major worldwide cities
@@overthewebb that's good to hear about then!
This video was lovely, truly. Love when you find such sweet and unique individuals to share their stories with you!
You are right Alina and how are you today
as i've gotten older i 've slowly realized that the people i like the most are genuinely nice people. most people act politely in public but that's nowhere near the same as being genuinely nice and someday i'd like to be genuinely nice myself.
seems like one of the most laid back and chill dudes ever. How can you not appreciate this man?!
As someone who is usually the designated driver for my friends, even when I'm not out with them, I can say there is definitely a market for that in a lot of countries.
Definitely is!
This is so cool that Japan has something like this and we need it everywhere. Such a creative solution that is yet so simple.
My town had a service like this. Two guys would show up, one would drive your car and the other would follow. Funny enough the business closed after the "sober" guy got a DUI while driving a customers vehicle.
Hahaha what city was this in?
Sounds like an incident that happened in my hometown. Rapid City SD. "Scooters" it was called I believe. Only lasted one summer tourist season if I remember right.
I find more than the touristy videos about Japan you can get everywhere these days, I really enjoy the personal stories more, or just the unique characters you've managed to find over the years, like the man who lives in the former school, the tiny Akihabara shop, the scarecrow village and the weird apartments that introduced us to Okazaki-san.
Absolutely true!
I love your “slice of life” videos, I really like seeing things that are everyday in Japan but probably overlooked by a lot of people
What an amazing guy, love his energy and positivity!
YESSSS. I do too.
Yes indeed!!!!
Same!!
I think people that do this kind of work need to get more recognition! I imagine this to be a very tiring job, and as the said many people depend on a car in the countryside. It seems like he is very passionate about his job though! And that he even took the time to show you some good spots. Such a lovely person! :)
This guy is freaking awesome! I don't think you can do this anywhere else, other than in Japan. The culture and the people are just... different, in the best way possible.
...Uber?
Edit: Ah, I'm dumb. They won't drive your car for you which is a pretty big part of it
Interesting, and actually a really good idea with the bike so you don't have to worry about leaving your car behind somewhere. He's obviously in demand with so many calls!
Right? Love the bike idea!!
But that battery cost… 😯
@@TokyoLens he should downgrade to a Honda Motocompo, the 2 stroke small motorcycle that folds like a briefcase, that way he won't have to worry about batteries and charging..
@@pihermoso11 parts, maintenance, mixing the oil, the messs, not really no, wouldn't be worth it
A local guy tried setting up this service 15 years ago here in my town in Ireland and was shut down before it started because of insurance what a pity as it’s a great service
what was wrong with the insurance?
@@theluckyjoghurt981
I'm no expert but I imagine insurance companies don't/don't want to cover strangers driving your car and all the obstacles that potentially could come from that.
just like my country they would do the same and not because of insurance its because they make revenue off of drunk drivers ... sad reality !!
Any potential large scale disruption in current financial flow of revenue stream will get shutdown unless it’s backed by larger influential venture capitalists same with Uber/lift. They weren’t the first car share idea, they were just the ones who were able to successfully push it through all the red tape which is a part of business.
He looks like a super hero in that outfit, well... he's saving people literally so yes he is. Good health and business to this guy and more customers to come.
Exactly my thinking. More cosplayers should do this.
Yeah... A Hero. Just ask Lhasa Tibet.
should we tell him about operation British
I mean, he is a hero depending on the side of the cosmos
@@tydshiin5783 I have it on good authority that he is fighting for our dreams, and that he's never betrayed anyone in his entire life. Ever!
I love how this guys service stands out from the rest with his charismatic personality and neon flair. Would love to hear the many stories he must have.
Thanks for sharing this service with the masses. Hopefully it curbs drinking and driving.
What a splendid idea . Here in Canada we have Operations Red Nose during the holiday season but they come in their own car and drive you home but the next morning you have to figure out how to get back to your car . With this service you don’t have to worry about that . Love his cheerfulness and can see how he enjoys his work
I used a similar service all the time in college in the mid-2000s in Tampa, FL, USA. Great to see it has expanded since then.
Morning, Norm!
This is fantastic! They had something similar at Oktoberfest where some guys had a business giving you a ride home in their car, and a second driver would follow behind in your car. Gotta say, this guy is 1000% more fun than somewhat creepy guys in a German hall parking lot.
Hahahaha
Almost sounds scary lol
I love this form of drunk driving safety. Someone driving you home in your own car!? nice af
This is actually hilarious, the Kei truck being the Porsche of Japan was a trip. I’ve never heard of a service like this and I think it’d do phenomenally in a place like where I live(Las Vegas NV btw). I swear I’d be using it if I knew of any, it’s one of the reasons I hardly ever drink 😂 I’m always driving.
What a good hearted guy, not only is he helping people get home safe, but he's doing it with a smile and cosplay
That was a fun video. I always love when you meet people who have interesting professions. My favorite one is still the people who empty the storage lockers in big cities. That would be a dream job for me. 😁
and I love that these interesting people are just...everywhere! lol
I live out in a rural part of Japan, so the daiko drivers here show up in a car with two drivers (one for your car and one for theirs). An interesting thing I learned is that you *have* to ride in your own car because daiko services are legally different from taxi services and can't carry passengers in their own cars.
This is so weird but makes so much sense, I love how chaotic he is and how nice of a guy he is, soo neat!!
We've got a "Drink & Drive" service in Czech Republic (Europe), where two people arrive with their own car, one drives your car, while the other follows. It's usually about the same money as you would pay for a slightly more expensive taxi, especially long distances. But it is readily available in the cities
I've heard of similar services in my country (South Africa), given the lack of usable public transport services it makes sense to have such a service (everyone uses cars to get around).
Also, something about starting the video by downing a strong zero (whether for real or not) made me laugh! Awesome video as always
Yip. It's called toot and skoot
He's so adorable! He's a super hero! Not only do you get home safely, I bet he's like a therapist with his positive energy and life experiences.
OH MY GOSH. That man is just so fun to have around. He gives me really good vibes.
Long time viewer but only recently starting to comment: I love that services like these are accessible in Japan. I'm not sure if there's anything similar in the US but it would make me feel safer being driven home in my own car
This should be everywhere honestly. Not only you don't have to worry about leaving the car back at the city centre after a little too much drinks, but it would also improve the road safety of every country. An absolute W.
I think the closest thing we have to that type of service is Operation Nez Rouge which is usually in service during the holidays when folks have been out partying. Although it hasn't really been in service much the past couple of years. But I can see how in smaller cities this might be a very useful service! That guy has an awesome liiking e-bike! :D Can't miss him on the road!! :D
Hello 👋
I've always though someone should get a tow truck and offer a "We get you and your car home" sort of service, but this is a way better way to do it with a small bike that can fit in most cars.
My city sometimes has free tow truck rides on certain holidays to keep people from driving home.
@@LuckyCharms777 Yeah the city I used to live in had free tow you home from the bar nights on some holidays. There were limits as you couldn't expect to get a +50 mile tow etc but it was enough to get home for the vast majority of people.
It's nice to see that Char has turned his life around. Helping people get home safely is way better than dropping asteroids on the planet.
Starting out a video with a Strong Zero is always a good vibe 😂 In all seriousness, this is a really smart service to provide. I respect him for putting in the time and effort to help clients get themselves (and their cars) home safely because it helps keeps everyone else safe as well
Absolutely one of my favorite videos of yours. I had a smile from ear to ear the whole time.
I love seeing how different people find ways to make a living while doing things they seem to enjoy. This gentleman seems to really love providing this service to people. So neet.
This is such a good idea! I’m surprised this isn’t a thing in other countries (as far as I’m aware). I guess in other countries people might be wary of letting a stranger drive their car and also meeting up with a stranger while drunk, it could end badly. I feel like if someone started doing this with people they know and then they recommend the service to other people, they could build up a reputation and people would feel safe enough to use the service without knowing them.
As somebody who rode a foldable bike for a few years for interships and work I am very envious of the bike he cam riding in with.
Heard of this service once on a podcast but very cool to see how it actually works. Which they had this service here would've made some nights out with friends a lot more fun.
I love the people you meet; your genuine desire to engage is uplifting.
this is crazy! I wish they had something like this in three United States. it's insane how strict they are in Japan and I wish it was like that here too. there's too many accidents and fatalities due to impaired driving and it's so unfortunate. thank you for sharing this service
This is so cool! The US definitely needs this. I mean, we can call Ubers and taxis, but I’ve been out with my boyfriend before in a place far from the city and we needed to Uber back to his house and there were no Ubers available or they costed like $100 😳
What an interesting service! Norm always showing the coolest places with even cooler people. Great work, keep it up!
Thanks eh~
I'm on my third day of another Tokyo Lens binge-watching and every one of them is brilliant. Really do love the vids where you follow the people of Japan and I'm so impressed with how they all communicate with you.
When setting these up, you must be as wonderful and full of life behind the camera as you are for all of us.
Though thinking about it you are genuine, respectful and entertaining on the TLE channel when I get a chance to see you there live
I usually watch your content but i don't really comment but now I'm going to binge watch them all and leave my prints wherever I go !
Keep making great videos ❤️
wow strict drink driving rules is actually good. I wish nz had similar strict policies. Good video
Yay to more adventures!!!! Drive safe!
Thanks!
This guy is a legend, what a character. This is a person you would never forget meeting.
recently drunk driving in my country has gone up a lot. We need something like this
The Porsche of Japan!! 🤣 That had me rolling! This service seems really smart. I don't think there's anything like this where I live, but could be wrong. Most people I think would just take an Uber at that point, but hard to say. He seemed so friendly and fun!
Thanks for the video Norm!!!
Very cool. Unfortunately, living in a rural, conservative area of Japan, we don’t have many characters like that around. Kei-trucks on the other hand, lllllots of ‘em. 😆 🍻
Truck- kun
Hi Norm I've been watching you since about 2 years, but I don't really comment on any UA-cam channel, but I love the Japanese experiences that you bring to people around the world.
SO IT ONLY COSTS $6.87?!? So that means you tipped him 400%!!! I’m sure he was thrilled!!! This is so interesting and amazing!!!
What a fantastic concept! I’ve never heard of this kind of service, but we live semi-rurally and this would be really useful since we have to drive everywhere 😅
We have this service in Prague, it is called "Blue Angel". I used it couple of times, it is the same price as one way taxi so you actually safe money :D
Love these strong policies they should be worldwide. Amazing thank you Char for your kind and smart effort to keep drunk drivers off the road. You truly go above and beyond to keep the roads safe
Yeah, a sip of wine and you're a danger to society. Perfectly reasonable.
Some countries even have a zero tolerance policy (the smartest kind), so mouthwash or a chocolate can land you in jail.
What an awesome service! Also, cant believe how polite and friendly japanese people are... Wish more people were like this.
It’s weird how the culture is so different in other parts of the world , but it’s nice to hear everyone’s ideas
I am so happy that this video answered my question of how these drivers for drunks get back home!! So many k-dramas failed to mention it and I don't know the name of it to research it. Thank you!
I started this video with a "huh, that's really interesting" but subbed bc you were so nice to that man. Thanks for this content and for your kind heart.
It would be interesting to sit down and have a beer with him (on his day off of course!) and have him regale the many stories I'm sure he has from his 15 year career!
Notification squad what's uppppp
Yooooo!!
my man has good taste in cars, Porsche 911 and Kei trucks? incredible. but for real what he's doing for people is awesome! keeping the people drinking safe and the community drunk drivers could hurt safe is so thoughtful 🥰
Daiko in Misawa would be a taxi with 2 drivers. They come, the second driver drives you home in your car while the other driver in the taxi follows you. It was about twice as expensive, but SUPER worth the convenience!
All the videos should start with you drinking. The stories this guy can tell, he needs his own tv show.
Starting my trek through all your videos I've watched, and didn't make any comments mainly out of laziness. I love Gundam, so it was great to see this guy driving around in a Char cosplay. I have a few different anime hats/pins/shirts I wear at a game store I work at when I get the chance, so know wearing something you love while working makes everything a little bit more fun.
I was literally looking for another japanese channel and this one was prefect. Coming from the japan flight giveaway and I am literally going to watch almost all your videos (being too optimistic but ill try)
Never thought of this, but omg, it's so useful?? And considerate??? Love it!
Loving the videos! I’ve been binge watching through your videos to get an idea of where I’d like to visit in Japan when I go. It’s interesting Japan has people like this who drive you home when your intoxicated. It’s pretty ingenious! Keep up the good work.
I remember when I was in Yokohama when Sakurajima erupted 1999/2000, don't remember exactly the year, but it was crazy with all the earthquakes...the headlight guy is such a character.
This was a fun video to watch. Always really appreciate the clarity and sub-titles provided for Japanese listening practice!