Thirty years, journo James Fallows wrote about his arrival, with family, for a one year stint in Japan. The apartment was clean, as promised, but unfurnished except for the clothing in suitcases.
He reported amazement to walk out the following day and find the streets in front of houses with neat piles of previously owned furniture and household items, most of it excellent condition.
Explanation and correct understanding: There is little demand in the Japanese middle class for previously-owned household items. Yes, there is high demand for collectibles. But not for personal items or what is regarded as personal.
Fallows, an American, partially furnished his apartment from the streets before the afternoon, when the "trash" was collected.
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