No exaggeration, Google Maps is simply part of my functioning body part now(like my third arm, or fourth leg? lol). I was already born unsmart at directions, and my hometown is a place which was designed in a simple horizontal/vertical street structure, which didn’t exactly demanded my ability to make direction decisions constantly. As growing up, I’ve lived in many other towns in China but mostly I could figure it out as Chinese cities are generally bigger and lower in density. (Also Google Maps is not available in China…)
Every since I moved to Tokyo, the crazy, narrow, curvy, small streets simply made me realize how unfunctional my sense of direction is. Moreover, Tokyo’s complicated railway system is so hard to understand as a non-Japanese speaking foreigner in the beginning. There was no way for me even to ask around. Well luckily as a Chinese I could recognize many Kanji but I could imagine what kind of pain it could be to foreigners who don’t have any knowledge of the language. Even now, and even with Google Maps, I’d still get lost in some areas where the traffic network is very complicated. That’s why I’m saying it’s already a part of me now. It might not be a great thing, but hey, we’re living in a technology world, aren’t we? The more developed we are technology-wise, some natural sense of us are probably destined to be degenerated, and I fully accept it, as long as we have the solution.
Ever since Local Guides service was released, Google Maps has now become a fun service besides being my daily basic companion. I love exploring around different areas and find fun spots, and Local Guides gave me a platform to share what I found to many people especially to whom are new in town and desperately need guidance on how and where they ought to be, or advice on what to do when get in the place. Moreover, Tokyo is such an abundant place, where so many gems are hidden in totally inobvious places. As a foodie and vintage shop lover, I am passionately into finding out special spots, leave comments and share them with friends, especially for those hidden gems which hasn’t seen by many people yet. I once got feedback from an acquaintant restaurant owner that many foreigners started to visit the place which never happened before, and could it be my credit. Positive or not, I’m so happy that my sharing has possibly helped either owners or the visitors, or both, which I feel very proud of. Now, my pictures(692 by now) has almost 2 million views, and I’m on the way to be upgraded as Level 8 local guide soon. It’s probably nothing comparing to the big contributors, but for me it’s a proud achievement as I started off with no expectation of return but only contribution.
I’m having a great expectation for future Google Maps development, especially with the 5G era beginning, I’m so sure that Google Maps will give us a whole new level of user experience that will simply mesmerize people. I’m looking forward to seeing that day coming as soon as possible.