In my continuing chat, I asked Risa if everyone in Japan understands customer service. All 125.8 million! No, of course not, but, in the city businesses, they do. They want to show international tourists the best aspects of Japan, and customer service is one way to do it.  Japan has become world-famous for its incredible customer service, which isn’t something you’ll find only at higher-priced hotels and resorts. Just about any shop, cafe or restaurant you go to in Japan, including convenience stores and fast-food outlets, will be staffed by courteous staff.

I have noticed service with speed but with the best quality possible. I once tried to stop a clerk from running to another side of the store to get me something. There is also a desire to avoid mistakes. Risa mentions that follow-up is very important. Her hotel is very good at it. I have 3 quick stories to explain the follow-up.

We were in one of Fukuoka’s museums, which are well worth a visit. An aspect of service couldn’t be given to us, one portion of the museum was closing, and I could see the pain on the staff member’s faces, in telling us so. So, we accepted this, maybe looked a bit disappointed and continued to another area. After 20 minutes, we heard a voice chasing after us. She came to apologise and bow to us for not being able to offer us the full museum. She was personally upset, so we assured her we would return.

Next, we had glasses made here at a nationwide Opticians called JINS. They have a process for getting glasses selected, eye examinations, and glasses made in one week, and presented to us, which is amazing and efficient. They offer they will fit and refit the glasses until you are satisfied, at no cost. They are quality with competitive prices, coupled with courtesy and efforts made in the process, that is truly satisfying.

Don’t expect a chat on the train or someone asking you where you are from. They respect your privacy and don’t stare or intrude, but ask for directions or help, and they are positively helpful. We asked for directions in a busy Tokyo subway, and a business lady walked us 10 minutes through the maze of subway lanes to our subway line entry, helped us buy our tickets, and wished us a pleasant day. She then told us she would walk back to her station, where we asked her in the first place! We have appreciated Japan’s civility.

There’s a country honour, shown in many ways. Basic restaurants and hotels of all standards will lend you an umbrella if you’re caught in a downpour, you just return it later. If you lose your wallet on the subway or bus, you’ll get it back. There are many cases of wallets and laptops being returned to the owner within a day or two.

I say goodbye to Risa and venture out into the rain, with one of the hotel’s umbrellas.

Last, The Japanese understand the meaning of teamwork.

TEAMS = Together Everyone Achieves More Service

For more information follow this link:- https://www.amistad-hotel-fukuoka.com/

Written by: Richard Coles

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