Masked hero helps carry bags, babies up and down Tokyo subway stairs

[AsahinaKimi]

TOKYO —

In a green outfit with silver trim and matching mask, a superhero waits by the stairs of a Tokyo subway station, lending his strength to the elderly, passengers lugging heavy packages and mothers with baby strollers.

“Japanese people find it hard to accept help, they feel obligated to the other person, so the mask really helps me out,” said Tadahiro Kanemasu.

The slender 27-year-old has spent three months being a good Samaritan at the station on Tokyo’s western side. Like many in the city, it has neither elevators nor escalators and a long flight of dimly lit stairs.

Inspiration came from the children he met at his job at an organic greengrocer, which also prompted the color of his costume. He picked up the green Power Rangers suit and two spares at a discount store for 4,000 yen each.

more..http://www.japantoday.com/category/lifestyle/view/masked-hero-helps-carry-bags-babies-up-and-down-tokyo-subway-stairs

[dixiegrrrrl]

1. "Japanese people find it hard to accept help"

Honorable sentiment, except when it comes to seeking help for the growing nuclear disaster.