Japanese woman in a rickshaw page 145

Rickshaws, also known as pedicabs or trishaws, are vehicles that are powered by a person pedaling a bike or tricycle. They have a seating area for passengers and are commonly used as a mode of transportation in cities and towns around the world. The history of rickshaws can be traced back to 19th century Japan, where they were originally used to transport travelers and goods. The word "rickshaw" is derived from the Japanese word "jinrikisha," which means "human-powered vehicle." Rickshaws were introduced to other parts of Asia, including China and India, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In the 20th century, rickshaws became a popular mode of transportation in many developing countries, as they were inexpensive and easy to operate. However, in recent years, the use of rickshaws has declined in many places due to concerns about their safety and the rise of alternative modes of transportation, such as cars and buses. Despite this, rickshaws continue to be used in some parts of the world, particularly in areas where roads and infrastructure are limited.