Starbucks Japanese culture

First off, there were no Japanese coffee shops to be replaced (a really insignificant number) Coffee houses are a very new phenomena in Japan and what you are seeing is a springing up and not a supplantation. And unlike the Europeans who fight not to have malls erected in thier countries, the Japanese vehemently applaud the installation of the Kentucky-fried-Gap culture. Actually I think coffee houses or cafes have been in Tokyo since the 1930's. On your statement that the Japanese applaud the Starbucks/Gap culture -perhaps you are correct. But it still makes me sad. -- Tosh Berman TamTam Books http://www.tamtambooks.com