Dear Alice,
Being an academic, I get to meet people researching all sorts of interesting topics, often completely unrelated to my own field. For example, I recently met a fellow Swede who is studying the practice of creating temporary memorials at the site of fatal traffic accidents. I was able to inform her that one sees this in Japan, too, with the site typically marked by bouquets of flowers and perhaps offerings of the unfortunate victim’s favorite drink or snack. But now I’m wondering about the small stone statues one sees at roadsides all around Japan, one of which I’ve photographed for you. Are they, too, memorials at the site of a tragedy, albeit older and more permanent? If not, what the heck are they?
Jan. M., Osaka
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.