Thursday, July 11 2002, 10:26

OTSU, Shiga Prefecture - If you are like me, you love to watch old reruns of Seinfeld. One of my favorite episodes is when Jerry and his friends find the most delicious soup in New York in a restaurant that is run by a very strict owner.

The Soup Nazi, "No Soup for You!"

Patrons are made to wait in line, not speak, and upon receiving the soup they are to pay and say "Thank you." Anything else will result in an ejection from the establishment, and the harsh words "No soup for you!" (in a thick Spanish accent no less) from the abbrasive South American refugee owner. Jerry and his friends affectionately called this man the "Soup Nazi." (pictured left) A similar character has surfaced here in our beloved Japan, in the back hills of the inaka; better known as Shiga Prefecture, Japan..

Shiga officials publicly stated Wednesday that applications from foreigners in Japan who do not speak Japanese will not be accepted for public housing. "Trouble with neighbors can result from one not speaking Japanese," one official said.

If the official in charge determines the applicant can not speak Japanese, Shiga Prefecture has been denying applications from foreigners. Translators are not allowed.

Shiga Prefecture Governor Yoshitsugu Kunimatsu is facing criticism from Shiga foreigners. Foreigners say since they pay taxes they have a right to live in Japan. The Governor said he will investigate the application process. He is quoted as saying "The practice is outdated."

Shiga Prefecture currently has 3,100 housing units publicly owned and only 150 of those are noted as having foreign occupancy. "No house for you!" (Zone81.com)

---

Caesar's Commentary