Sweet surrender

Imagine a world in which nodding off on a train or bus, briefcase on the overhead rack, is relaxing. Welcome to the big sleepover of Tokyo: No beggars, no buskers, no street crime. Even a native New Yorker like me has been known to doze off on public transport or even at the dental hygienist. Today I caught some zees at the hair salon: Chair tipped back, eye mask in place, splish splash and power nap. Tomorrow when I introduce our esteemed Sudoku guests who cares what gibberish comes out of my mouth as long as I have a good haircut?

My first haircut experience in Tokyo at the local Tony & Guy ended with a group bow that I found strangely moving. I have since observed hairdressers hold the door for a client and bow to the ground, all without a tip, which would be considered an insult. At another gaijin salon (dubiously named Sinden) the first question was: "May I take your purse?" In New York, this would provoke a call to 911. Here it was meant to put me at ease. Why clutch your purse during a haircut? Thanks to my former neighbor, wonderful Wanda, I found the happy medium: A three seat shop with a Johnny Depp wannabe owner who serves green tea and keeps bowing to a minimum.

Emails have piled up about tomorrow's event: At last count there are 40 contestants (half under 16 and one aged 77) plus six Nikoli staff supervising and scoring. G-san is worried that his English will fail him. The Tokyo American Club staff are concerned about unaccompanied visitors on the premises. I have promised to shepherd my puzzle guests and invite them for beer in the Club bar following the event. The big worry is: What if more people show up than we expect?

The first hour of the proceedings will be devoted to explaining the rules of the game and the competition. After the race, one puzzle which is estimated to take 20 minutes, lots of prizes will be awarded. Time permitting, perhaps the grand prize winner will demonstrate his (or her) abilities. Awards, generously donated by Nikoli, include merchandise with their logo. Everyone will receive a certificate signed by Maki Kaji, aka Mr. Sudoku. He is taking the day off from the track to meet his fans. My family, however, appears to be otherwise engaged.