TOKYO, Nov 12 (News On Japan) –
Tokyo’s Asakusa district, bustling with international vacationers, is legendary for its rickshaws, a novel attraction that mixes sightseeing with memory-making for guests.
Recently, an growing variety of feminine rickshaw pullers have been seen on Asakusa’s streets. However, some feedback from international guests have sparked debate.
In a video that has change into a speaking level, a feminine rickshaw puller is seen pulling a rickshaw carrying a bodily giant man. The video, meant to advertise the allure of Asakusa and its rickshaw pullers on social media, has acquired blended responses. Many viewers have praised the puller with feedback like, “They are amazing!” But some international viewers criticized the scene, with remarks akin to, “Poor girl,” “Are you trying to kill her?” and “This should be reported as abuse.”
These considerations may replicate real fear for the pullers’ well-being, however what do these concerned give it some thought?
We spoke to Ryuya Nishio, President of Tokyo Rickshaw, an organization that operates rickshaws primarily in Asakusa.
Mina Aoi, Reporter: How many rickshaw pullers are there?
Tokyo Rickshaw President Ryuya Nishio: About 100 with our firm, round 30 of whom are ladies.
Mina Aoi, Reporter: Foreign guests have expressed concern about ladies pulling rickshaws.
Tokyo Rickshaw President Ryuya Nishio: Yes, once we share posts on social media, feedback like, “Why make them do work akin to slavery?” or “Why have women do this instead of men?” come up.
How do the feminine rickshaw pullers themselves really feel? We spoke to Minami Kawai, 20, who began pulling rickshaws in May 2024 and was featured within the video that stirred controversy.
On busy days, Kawai takes round 10 teams of consumers. When requested if she finds the work difficult, she admitted, “There are tough times.”
Mina Aoi, Reporter: What was the toughest half throughout your first six months?
Tokyo Rickshaw, Minami Kawai: Definitely the summer season warmth. After simply 10 minutes, I might be drenched in sweat. (Q: Do you deal with the bodily pressure?) Physically, I’m okay.
She talked about that working in the summertime additionally introduced challenges with sunburn, which was robust on her as a girl. Still, when requested why she continues pulling rickshaws, Kawai stated, “I’ve admired this job since I was young. I love it, and that motivates me to keep going. People worry, but I’m fine.”
What do international vacationers consider the criticism?
Tourist from Italy: If it’s her alternative, isn’t that advantageous?
Tourist from Indonesia: At first, I felt uneasy, however then it turned fulfilling.
How will Tokyo Rickshaw’s president reply to the abroad criticism directed at feminine rickshaw pullers?
Tokyo Rickshaw President Ryuya Nishio: Whatever we do, criticism will come from someplace, so I’m centered on creating an surroundings the place our employees can do what they need.
Some rickshaw pullers reportedly earn over 1.3 million yen a month. Nishio emphasised that guests ought to benefit from the rickshaw expertise, understanding that the pullers discover success of their work.
Source: FNN