Job Discussion Forums

[ESLgeek]

Hi everyone,
I'm in Japan now - yey! Does anyone know a good site for maps? It's very hard to use google maps here because it shows everything in Japanese. Mapquest is no good as well. I need a good site for getting directions. Does anyone know if there are cycling maps for Tokyo?

[originaloli]

Not the most helpful advice in the world, but the Tokyo Cycling club might have help regarding cycling maps.

You know, you are allowed to cycle on the roads in Japan. It's neither hard nor unpleasant (not that I know yet but I will in October). Don't let arrogant car drivers force you onto minor roads - get out on the big roads and give them hell. Hell on wheels.

Oli

[markle]

Couple of things to keep in mind regarding maps in Japan. Try to get at least a bilingual map, all English maps are often more confusing than they are worth because most street signs and location markers are in Japanese, mostly kanji, especially of the main thouroughfares. At least get a map that has the road numbers marked.
For me I would perservere with a japanese map, hard at first but eventually much more useful.

[ESLgeek]

Thanks for the advice - I have seen cyclists everywhere which is great. i was just wondering if maybe there were special areas where only cyclists can go like nature trails or things like that. Also, I'm looking for online maps not paper maps.

[originaloli]

Oh. A mountain bike. My advice there would be to throw it into a forge or sell it. Get a proper road bike and a little Keirin knockabout. From what I've heard, the Kanto hills are spectacular cycling terrain. For proper bikes. I'll be there in October, going out at weekends whether rain or shine. I'm really looking forward to city cycling though - who needs a map when you're so much quicker than traffic and pedestrians?

Oli

[southofreality]

[markle]

[parrothead]

[parrothead]