Free they may well be, not to mention beneficial, but in Tokyo at least, smiles are very much a novelty rather than the norm. Of course in bars it’s a different story as there is booze involved, but day to day life is sadly really rather bereft of them.
Now why this should be I don’t know, but what it does do is make those that are seen all the more special. Particularly so when they are big, wonderfully genuine ones that even masks can’t disguise.
ying says
the girl seems there seems skeptical! haha
Lee says
Yes. Very!
It was nice to get her expression in the frame too, as that’s a far more common look. A great contrast to the old couple as well.
winnie says
The old couple are so lovely and happy! 🙂
Maybe something in the plastic bag attract the girl attention?
Lee says
They are. Smiley and affectionate. A doubly rare sight.
I don’t know what the young girl was looking at. It’d be nice to think it was because the old couple were smiling, but I really don’t know.
Hans ter Horst says
She’s thinking: “When I’m 74…”
I don’t know about you guys, but when I’m exploring a city or when I’m in an onsen, the only people showing any curiosity and wanting to chat to me are the elderly. (Although I did get a bit tired of the elderly salarymen who just wanted to practice their English) 🙂
Lee says
Yeah, my experience is pretty much the same. There are exceptions of course, but generally the elderly are more smiley, and far more inclined to chat.