Starboofed

Before I ever went to Japan I read in a guide book that it is considered extremely insulting, especially around the Tokyo area, to count the change a sales clerk gives back. After living in Japan for eleven years I would like to modify that advice.

When making a purchase in Japan, it is extremely important to count the change you receive because:
a) Contrary to their own opinions of themselves, honest Japanese are no more adept at making change.
b) Especially around Tokyo, many clerks seem skilled in the art of short-changing their customers.

I drink coffee, no sissy lattes. And black, no cream or nuthin. When I first came back from Japan and started attending morning Starbuck lines, I assumed that if the barista failed to ask "room for cream?" the default would be to fill the cup to the top. I soon learned that customers must be pro-active in their order instructions for "No room for cream." Even that does not guarantee that your coffee will not start out an inch below the brim, no matter how loud and clear you make the "NO". So now after being handed my paper cup, regardless of how long the line behind me, I always rip off the lid and do not hesitate to ask for all the coffee I paid for.