OKINAWA: Fun in the Street

During the afternoon, before going to work in the bar, some women are allowed by the bar owner to have freedom of movement. The women, like the guys, do not speak Japanese, can’t use public transportation, and thus, stay in the bar area. This is a time when it may be possible to play, to have some fun. Women’s need for friendship and support is heightened by their being in a foreign country. Sometimes working in the same bar will result in bonding; other times, there is competition.