ー英会話講師の英語日記ー　札幌英会話スクールSTEP UP（札幌駅、大通駅徒歩５分）

Why I am happy to live in Japan – Part 5: Gas Stations

2017年12月29日 (金)

People who live here might not notice it, but I think Japan has wonderful gas stations. I grew up in America, and we are an automotive society, so we have a lot of gas stations. Basically, they are the same as Japanese gas stations, because people go there to get gas. However, there are some important differences, and some good things about both styles.

First, I will describe American gas stations. Almost all gas stations in America are “self service only”. This means that you have to pump the gasoline yourself, take care of payment yourself, and clean the windows of the car yourself. Also, if you want to get air or water, or even just check the air pressure in your tires, you must do it yourself. Air and water are not free – you generally have to put some coins in a machine to get service.

The good thing about almost all American gas stations is that they have a convenience store. You can get food and drinks, use the restroom, and fill your tank all in one place. Gas stations also sell maps and books with information about the area, and the attendants can often answer questions you may have about local road information.

I love Japanese gas stations because of the great service. Many gas stations here are full service – I can get my tank filled, my windows, cleaned, and air in my tires, and don’t even have to get out of the car. Gas station attendants give customers wet towels to clean the inside of their cars, and they also take away any garbage that customers may have. I am happy literally every time I go to the gas station here, because of the friendly and polite service.