しょうてんがい (Commercial District)

Typical Japanese streets are often narrow and crowded with people. When people go out for daily grocery shopping, they often walk to neighborhood stores.

In cities, commercial districts typically center around train stations. Many of them form mini-underground cities.

こうばん (Police Box)

When you get lost in town, one of the best places to ask directions is こうばん ("police box") strategically located in various neighborhoods.

コンビニ

Large stores tend to close in the early evening, but small convenience stores (コンビニ) are often open for business until late at night.