Next time you are traveling abroad, pay attention to the crosswalks. After all, the traffic rules in other countries may differ from home. Safety first! Once you’ve determined whether to look left or right before stepping into a busy street, take a moment to appreciate the sometimes subtle, sometimes artful and sometimes zany design that goes into pedestrian crossings around the world.
Most Crowded
This “Pedestrian Scramble” crosswalk in Hachiko Square, Tokyo, really is a scramble. All traffic pauses to let hundreds of walkers cross the massive intersection. You can even cross diagonally!
Photo by Cvander, courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons
Most Secret
The Kiwis take the term “down under” literally on Symonds Street in Auckland, New Zealand. This crosswalk passes under the street! Built mostly for the high volume of student traffic from Auckland University, you won’t have to wait on the “walk” signal here!
Photo by Alexliivet, courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons
Most Commercialized
During a recent Zurichfest, sponsor McDonald’s plastered the street with a huge serving of fries. Pedestrians crossed on the long yellow fries and I’m sure worked up quite an appetite by the time they made it to the other side.
Photo courtesy of adsoftheworld.com
Most Poignant
As a memorial to pedestrians hit by motorists, this crosswalk in Portugal is made up of the hundreds of painted names of victims. An important, if macabre safety reminder, this crosswalk will certainly inspire you to look both ways before you walk.
Photo courtesy of Robertlpeters.com
Most Famous Abbey Road
There isn’t a more iconic crossing in the world than in front of Abbey Road Studios, where the Beatles photographed their legendary album cover in 1969. Even named a historic landmark of cultural significance, this ordinary zebra crossing in London hosts flocks of fans and tourists who come to pay homage to John, Paul, George and Ringo.
Photo by Sander Lamme, courtesy of Flickr Creative Commons
Where was the most unique street crossing you’ve ever seen? The next time you’re abroad and need a hotel in London, Tokyo, Lisbon, Zurich, Auckland and beyond, try Excellent Hotels for the best selection of 3, 4 and 5 star properties and guaranteed low rates.
