Indian woman in Japan steps out at 11 pm, says ‘This is a very big deal’

An 11 pm walk might seem like a small, everyday moment. But for one Indian woman living in Japan, it brought up a much bigger thought about freedom, safety, and how differently women can experience something as simple as stepping outside.The woman, identified as Sheetal, shared a video of her late-night outing on Instagram. Her comments focused on how she felt about being outdoors at that hour and why the experience stood out to her as someone coming from India.Her post has since sparked a conversation online, with several users relating to her thoughts about being able to move around without fear.

‘This is a very big deal’

In the video, Sheetal explained why the timing of her walk mattered to her.“So, it's 11:00 at night, and I've come out for a walk here. Meaning, walking here, you don't have to think about whether it's 11:00 pm or 11:00 am, what might happen or what might not happen. I mean, this is a very big deal. Coming from India, being a girl, this is a very big deal,” Sheetal said in the video.She was highlighting the difference between simply checking the time and feeling that the hour could affect whether going outside was a comfortable choice.

Sheetal says Japan is not perfect

ID@undefined Caption not available.ID@undefined Caption not available.ID@undefined Caption not available.ID@undefined Caption not available.The woman was also careful not to suggest that Japan has no problems.“I agree that Japan also has a hundred problems; it's not like it's perfect. But this particular problem is a very major issue, being a girl. So, this kind of luxury is a very big luxury – here, or in any country where women's safety is really good,” she said.Her comments were therefore limited to the particular experience she was discussing rather than being a statement about every aspect of life in Japan or India.The video featured the text, “Walking the streets safely at 11 pm.”

‘I hope that one day in India too’

Sheetal also shared what she hopes women in India can experience in the future.“So, I hope that one day in India too, no matter what time it is, we can walk without a second thought... just walk,” she concluded.Her message was about reaching a point where the time of day does not become an added concern for women who want to step outside.

Internet reacts

The video received comments from users who connected with the thought behind her post.“This kind of freedom should be normal,” one person wrote.Another said, “Feeling safe outside at night is priceless.”“Walking at night without fear is a privilege,” commented a third user.Another agreed with Sheetal and wrote, “This is so true.”Disclaimer: The views expressed in the social media post belong to the individual who shared it. The Times of India does not independently endorse or verify the opinions expressed in the post.Thumb image: Instagram