Tourists get their kicks in Japanese city

WHEN in Rome, do as the Romans do, goes the popular saying.

Well, a city in Japan is throwing itself full-blooded into that sensibility.

Beginning next month, the police force in Matsue is offering martial arts classes to foreign visitors in a bid to not only build trust but improve officers’ English.

Tourists can spend an hour learning judo and kendo from cops who hold black belts in the skills.

A cynic would say it doesn’t bode well if it’s suggested you learn selfdefence before taking to the city’s streets.

And it seems the officers won’t be holding back either, because the tourists require accident insurance before they take the classes.

Those brave enough will be rewarded with an invitation to join the officers in watching the sun set over nearby Lake Shinji. Hopefully with all limbs intact.