Is It Pinball? No. Is It A Slot Machine? No.

Well actually, it’s both. It’s Pachinko. The craziest game I’ve ever seen. Every third shop is a Pachinko parlour in Tokyo (one of the other two is a Subway or Starbucks) and people sit in them all day making just over average salary rather than working. I’m still not sure what it’s about or how to play, although I’ve tried, so it’s best to direct you to here.

There are two ultimately bizarre things you must know about Pachinko parlours. Firstly, the noise is deafening. Louder than any nightclub I’ve been to. And the majority of the players are the elderly. Secondly, everyone’s trays of silver Pachink balls are just lying in the walkways behind them, and no-one touches them or tries to steal one. It’s a very honest culture. Jody lost her wallet on the train. The next day it was returned with no money missing.