@boxcarblue

Thanks so much for the long list of differences in driving habits, unwritten rules, general country rules, and cultural habits..

By the way I apologize for using the word "oddities" in my original comment - a driving oddity in retrospect is more along the lines of something weird like driving to work in 'drive' and returning from work driving in 'reverse' --

Driving differences is what I should have said...

There are certainly a few differences that would benefit the United States society as a whole if they adopted some of the differences you mentioned.

I particularly liked the idea of people using their hazard lights to thank other drivers.. It seems to me that not only the intended driver but all drivers in the vicinity would likely notice the 'thank you' -- positivity shown and seen by more drivers overall - instead of a quick wave often missed seems like it may have an amazing effect.

Intrigued by having to look under your car before getting into it - what's that all about? A car safety precaution? A car bomb precaution? Or a humanitarian effort to prevent driving with an animal, child, or insect hiding under your car and possibly hurting them.

Lastly - Who has the right of way at an intersection? The larger vehicle, more expensive vehicle, or the vehicle with the more aggressive driver behind the wheel ?? Or none of the above...

Ok the real last question - which deals with the main premise of the post - backing into parking spaces -- are most cars in Japan now equipped with the self parking feature not just for parallel parking but backing in parking..

I'm really looking forward to reading more of your posts about the societal differences and practices between Japan and the U.S. -