I would like to begin by saying that I love Japan and its people. I was a teacher and ESL supervisor for eight years, and hated to leave. I wept bitter tears.

Having said that, I wish to say that "sexless Japan" is utter nonsense (the Media Mix column titled "Modern romance: no security, no sex" in the Oct. 2 edition). Unlike America there is no shame associated with sex. It is free and open. Everywhere there are love hotels. I visited dozens.

Very young ladies posted their pictures and phone numbers on telephone booths. I gathered hundreds of them and put them in a photo album.

I could say so much more, but I believe it is prudent to end here.

Sheridan Peterson

SANTA ROSA, CALIFORNIA

The opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are the writer's own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of The Japan Times.