Storm BrewingThe first two days of our visit were stormy, because a typhoon was following us to Japan…oh the drama! Scary? A bit…but I was there and what do you do in that situation? Make the most of it!
So on these rainy days, I decided to see what local Ikebukuro had to offer (around our hotel)…and discovered 7-Eleven Bento boxes and pretty tea bottles! All-in-all…not a bad first two days in Tokyo! (Of course this is not all Ikebukuro has to offer…the shopping and restaurants and side streets are all amazing…but I didn’t see much of those on these two rainy days).
Lucky for me though, Fint has the luck of the Irish on his side, and the storm just missed Tokyo and the rest of our visit was sunshine all day, every day! Fint really just may be the “Sunshine Kid”.
TokyoTokyo is an amazing city with modern lifestyle blending seamlessly with history and tradition. It is a strange ol’ place that seems to have a lot going on…no matter what you are in to.
When we were riding the bus into Tokyo from the airport…I have to admit, I got a bit nervous, it was just so big and busy, and I didn’t think I would ever be able to get around the place. And I was scared I would waste my 3 weeks, from fear alone.
This is just the rail map...there is a whole seperate subway system beneath this.
My first trip on the JR did little to alleviate those fears…how was I ever going to be able to navigate around the city in this seemingly endless tangle of rail ways, and all alone!? Depending on the time, the train stations would be so packed that it was hard to see the forest for the trees. So I would have to pull myself out of the overwhelming crowd and look at the big picture…the signs, the map, the destination. Once I did that, it was just busy…not overwhelming, just busy. After my revelation, I have to say, I embraced the subway and railways…I actually loved them. You couldn’t keep me off them…they gave me freedom in Tokyo…Thank you Fint for the Suica Card!! (It is a prepaid card you use on the trains…no buying tickets, no calculating the fares for each journey…just one bip and you’re on, and one bip and you’re off, super efficient, Tokyo style).
Lets just put this into Wiki facts for a better picture:
*The prefecture is the center of the Greater Tokyo Area, the world's most populous metropolitan area with 35 million people.
*The Yamanote Line on the JR alone sees approximately 3.5 million passengers a day. (This was the line I spent the most quality time with, while alone, as it took me home.)
Bonding without Words
What does it feel like when you can’t talk to the people around you? Not able to ask for help or directions and get an English response? Not being able to understand the signs and ads and menus and food labels on everything around you?
I never imagined what it would be like to be in a place where no one could understand what I was saying and I couldn’t understand them; the trials and lessons and excitement that it would bring. The little triumphs I would feel when I got something right, or found my way from some directions given to me in Japanese. I had quite a few occasions to feel this on my trip…always with me not giving up and a great outcome! This was a learning experience that I won’t forget…I learnt a lot from it, and I grew mentally and spiritually. Sound silly? Try it; you just might be surprised at how strong and flexible a mind can be; and how rewarding it truly feels.
While in Tokyo I found myself really liking the people there…without ever getting to have a conversation with them; the reason I think this is, is because I was so dependant on them. I couldn’t always read the signs…and I could only say basic phrases (i.e. “Hello”, “Thank You”, “Good Evening”, “Train Station”, “My name is Jennifer”), but nothing of any real use…and yet, they were so kind and they would try and help me, even though they could barely understand me also. I provoked a lot of giggling from the local girls, every time I would ask a group of them some directions.
The Japanese are a very polite society; with some etiquette “rules” that seem odd to westerners, such as, no talking on the phone when you are on public transportation…including, trains, buses, elevators, etc (but isn’t that the best time to get a chat in??). Also you are supposed to either turn your phones off or turn them on silent mode; as it is seen to disturb your neighbors (What!? And risk missing that all important call?). This doesn’t stop any of the locals from texting, playing games, watching videos and listening to music on their phones though…guess this is their way around it. :)
Sea of Buildings and PeopleThe city is huge…mind boggling huge. As far as the eye can see, the sea of buildings never ends. I have never seen a city this vast…and full. Picture Denver in your head, now picture Detroit in your head, stick them together, now add New York, now add Los Angeles and you still only have half of Tokyo.
The people (as you would expect in any big city) vary…but the youth culture here is something I really fell in love with. The extent in which these teenagers are allowed to express themselves…with out even an eyelash batted from the elder woman dressed in her sensible outfit or traditional kimono across the train seat, is amazing.
We went to the top viewing platform of the Tokyo Tower so that I could get a better visual of the size of this city…amazingly big! It is hard to imagine that anyone can find their way around such a hectically filled city…the amount of buildings and people looks like sheer chaos! It is also amazing that the city is so orderly and tidy…(the later is especially crazy to me since I could never find a rubbish bin!)
Click photo to enlarge.
Fashion!
Shinjuku...Harajaku…Shibuya…Ginza…oh my!Tokyo is really the city with a passion for fashion! And as far as I can see, anything goes here. And they all look great! Even the more wild dressed Harajuku style, they pull it off to look cute. I was like a kid in a candy shop with all the pink accessories and cute dress stores! In the end we were able to get some great photos in Harajaku…these kids couldn’t have been nicer or cuter!
Ginza
Shinjuku
Punky Harajuku Geisha
I did end up buying a few super cute items to take home with me!
Shopping in Harajuku
There seems to be a lot of soft layering going on here in Japan. The basic uniform seems to be different variations of soft sweaters with lacy details and short little skirts or shorts underneath…with black tights and knee or thigh high boots. Heels seem to be par for course…and tons of accessories! There is a lot of lace and super soft fabrics, textures are a must.
Cute is very acceptable here…from cutesy clothes and accessories to hairstyles and glitter makeup. A Hello Kitty t-shirt is 100% acceptable for any grownup to wear! Very refreshing for my Sponge Bob Tee shirt loving heart.
Yep this is a cell phone...covered in charms and decorations! (I might skip this trend)
I really like the fashion here in Tokyo, these girls seem to have “disheveled pretty” down…I will have to incorporate a few pieces into my closet!
Culture and Heritage
Yoyogi Park: This was one of my favorite walks in Tokyo…I really enjoyed the woodsy peacefulness of this park. I spent a couple afternoons just wondering around with my camera. It is one of the largest parks in Tokyo. The avenue of gingko trees at Meiji Jingu’s Outer Precinct (Gaien) is said to be Tokyo’s most beautiful alley…and I would not argue. (Another reason I loved this park…is it had a fenced in dog run…Penelope and Tallulah would have loved it!)
Yoyogi Park: This was one of my favorite walks in Tokyo…I really enjoyed the woodsy peacefulness of this park. I spent a couple afternoons just wondering around with my camera. It is one of the largest parks in Tokyo. The avenue of gingko trees at Meiji Jingu’s Outer Precinct (Gaien) is said to be Tokyo’s most beautiful alley…and I would not argue. (Another reason I loved this park…is it had a fenced in dog run…Penelope and Tallulah would have loved it!)
Hopes and wishes.
In the park the Shinto shrine, Meiji Jingu, is dedicated to the divine souls of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It is a very beautiful shrine; set in the middle of these peaceful woods…I think my camera needed a coffee break after visiting the shrine!
Waka Poetry by Empress Shoken:
Every morning
We gaze into our mirrors
Which are unblemished;
Oh, that we could attain
Such a purity of soul.
Waka Poetry by Empress Shoken:
Every morning
We gaze into our mirrors
Which are unblemished;
Oh, that we could attain
Such a purity of soul.
(Waka poems are traditional Japanese poems of 31 syllables).
On one of my visits, I lost track of time in this park…and didn’t get out until after dark…and I was very glad of it, it was absolutely stunning and even more peaceful after sun set. The Japanese lanterns lit my path to the main Torii (shrine gate). Walking along the dirt path, in the soft light of the lanterns was wonderfully peaceful and did a world of good for my spirit.
So pretty.
The grounds of this temple was packed with people…but it was worth the effort to maneuver around. The temple is beautiful and quite large…and the garden was quite lovely.
Nakamise-dōri is a street leading to the temple that is loaded with little souvenir shops and lots of yummy food stalls. It is said to have come about in the early 18th century. Neighbors of Sensō-ji were allowed to set up shops on the approach to the temple.
Little Ramen Noodle Shop
Yaki-Soba: This is a super tasty noodle dish…pretty much they just stir-fry what they have on hand, with some noodles and Yaki (fry) sauce. Sprinkle the top with a hot pepper mixture and you are good to go! Yaki means fried and soba is noodles (Stir-fried noodles). (At the time of this post, I have already made this dish at home…look for it on the food blog soon!) Very yummy.
Could be the best beer I have ever had!
On one of my visits, I lost track of time in this park…and didn’t get out until after dark…and I was very glad of it, it was absolutely stunning and even more peaceful after sun set. The Japanese lanterns lit my path to the main Torii (shrine gate). Walking along the dirt path, in the soft light of the lanterns was wonderfully peaceful and did a world of good for my spirit.
Imperial Palace and Gardens
Fujimi-yagura (Mt. Fuji view keep)
So pretty.
Our new friend...who happened to really think highly of Fint! ;)
Sensō-ji Temple:
Sensoji is an ancient Buddhist temple…it is the oldest and most significant temple in Tokyo. The temple is dedicated to the Bodhisattva Kannon, also known as The Goddess of Mercy.
Sensō-ji Temple:
Sensoji is an ancient Buddhist temple…it is the oldest and most significant temple in Tokyo. The temple is dedicated to the Bodhisattva Kannon, also known as The Goddess of Mercy.
The grounds of this temple was packed with people…but it was worth the effort to maneuver around. The temple is beautiful and quite large…and the garden was quite lovely.
Nakamise-dōri is a street leading to the temple that is loaded with little souvenir shops and lots of yummy food stalls. It is said to have come about in the early 18th century. Neighbors of Sensō-ji were allowed to set up shops on the approach to the temple.
Of course Fint and I had to stop and try the little pumpkin cakes and Yaki-soba…yummy!
Food
Ramen Noodles: One of my favorite dishes in Tokyo…homemade Ramon Noodles! They are so tasty and filling. There are different styles of Ramen, depending on which region you are in, in Japan. My favorite was the Shio ramen, with mixed greens and roasted pork sliced on top. I am going to try and make some at home!
Ramen Noodles: One of my favorite dishes in Tokyo…homemade Ramon Noodles! They are so tasty and filling. There are different styles of Ramen, depending on which region you are in, in Japan. My favorite was the Shio ramen, with mixed greens and roasted pork sliced on top. I am going to try and make some at home!
Little Ramen Noodle Shop
Rice Curry: It is a very tasty, very different type of dish…Japanese Style Curry. (Another I am going to try and recreate at home).
Sushi: What else can I say but wow! Sushi is just better in Japan…especially when you are at a traditional style restaurant, with a local ordering for you!
BBQ: We had so much fun eating all you can eat and all you can drink one weekend at a bbq restaurant. You cook the food yourself on a little grill built into the middle of the table. We even ate tongue and enjoyed it! But luckily we didn’t eat the womb…not sure what animal that was from!
Sushi: What else can I say but wow! Sushi is just better in Japan…especially when you are at a traditional style restaurant, with a local ordering for you!
BBQ: We had so much fun eating all you can eat and all you can drink one weekend at a bbq restaurant. You cook the food yourself on a little grill built into the middle of the table. We even ate tongue and enjoyed it! But luckily we didn’t eat the womb…not sure what animal that was from!
Yaki-Soba: This is a super tasty noodle dish…pretty much they just stir-fry what they have on hand, with some noodles and Yaki (fry) sauce. Sprinkle the top with a hot pepper mixture and you are good to go! Yaki means fried and soba is noodles (Stir-fried noodles). (At the time of this post, I have already made this dish at home…look for it on the food blog soon!) Very yummy.
Could be the best beer I have ever had!
Friends
I was also very lucky to meet another of Fintan’s friends; Robin, his wife Kyoko and their two kids. We spent a lovely afternoon with Robin and the kids at the park…there was a deadly slide…which I was forced to go down!
Kyoko made us a delish dinner of sushi, and miso soup…very yummy! Their kids are adorable. Again, I find that all over the globe, Fint has amazing, nice, friends…no shortage!
I was also very lucky to meet another of Fintan’s friends; Robin, his wife Kyoko and their two kids. We spent a lovely afternoon with Robin and the kids at the park…there was a deadly slide…which I was forced to go down!
Kyoko made us a delish dinner of sushi, and miso soup…very yummy! Their kids are adorable. Again, I find that all over the globe, Fint has amazing, nice, friends…no shortage!
Fintan Fact: Robin’s family name is Gentlemen, when he lived in Ireland his family was one of only two Gentlemen in the telephone directory. But now he is entirely unique in the Tokyo directory. Coincidentally though, the collar matches the cuffs and Robin is quite the gentleman.
Museum of Nature and Science Dinosaur bones…cavemen…dead stuffed animals…lots of info…but all in Japanese! ;) Even so, it was a lovely visit to a museum…and I got to see a lot of what Japan has in its flora and fauna.
Ueno Park
It was another lovely day…perfect weather, so I didn’t feel like getting cooped up in a mall…I decided to head to Ueno Park and see what was there. With camera and Starbuck’s in hand I had a lovely afternoon walking around the lake, and seeing the temples, shrines and all of the historic sites in the area.
Ueno Park has a nice balance of history and modern life…it is nice and peaceful. Though you are in the city, the winding trails and temples and trees give the feeling that you are in the countryside. I had a very relaxing afternoon here…drinking coffee, enjoying the beautiful weather and taking in the peaceful, relaxing, outdoors. (Something I don’t do very often in the humidity of KL). I have to say, the Japanese are really good at parks!
It was another lovely day…perfect weather, so I didn’t feel like getting cooped up in a mall…I decided to head to Ueno Park and see what was there. With camera and Starbuck’s in hand I had a lovely afternoon walking around the lake, and seeing the temples, shrines and all of the historic sites in the area.
Ueno Park has a nice balance of history and modern life…it is nice and peaceful. Though you are in the city, the winding trails and temples and trees give the feeling that you are in the countryside. I had a very relaxing afternoon here…drinking coffee, enjoying the beautiful weather and taking in the peaceful, relaxing, outdoors. (Something I don’t do very often in the humidity of KL). I have to say, the Japanese are really good at parks!
Kamakura, A Small Coastal Village 30 Miles from TokyoFint and I got up a bit late to see the Big Buddha…but we still had a very nice time in this little town. We took a long train ride out and ate chocolate covered coffee beans on the trip. Little joys make me so happy!
The day was drizzly and cloudy…which made for a romantic setting to spend the afternoon with Fint. It gave the town a storybook quality. Everything was very earthy and natural looking…the town had an organic quality to it. I think Kamakura, for me at least, was best to be enjoyed in the dusk…it still has a dream like quality lingering in my memory. It was refreshing after being in the bustling big city for so long. …Walking with Fint, in the dusky, light drizzle, holding hands, drinking coffee…so nice. This was a great date spot. Fint got it right again…no surprise there! ;)
Kamakura is so quaint…and quiet; a wonderful place to spend the afternoon…shopping and eating. They have very cute boutique shops and little restaurants. We had some sausages at a little street shop before heading on to the scariest place in Japan, that we found.
Up a pretty little country ally…with the moonlight shinning…should have been very romantic…however, it was close to a nightmare! Everyone who knows me, knows I have an irrational fear of a certain creepy crawler. And once we were very deep into this pretty little ally way…I looked up and seen them…HUGE (quite possibly the largest I have ever seen in person) ICKY, spiders!!!! Okay, enough of that…but just so you know…I was there, I seen them…and yes I did live.
This earthy little boutique town was just beautiful; it was another of those places I hope to visit again in the future. Before we left we drank coffees and ate pastries in a coffee shop…a very romantic spot in Japan, near Tokyo.
Mount Fuji-san (Mount Fuji)Our last weekend in Japan, Fint and I decided to head to Hakone to see the famous Mount Fuji and the changing leaves of the surrounding forests. It was beautiful and very surreal…it is so iconic and to see it in person is amazing. We got up early to go and lucky we did…because Mount Fuji disappeared into the mist as soon as we finished photographing it!
The day was drizzly and cloudy…which made for a romantic setting to spend the afternoon with Fint. It gave the town a storybook quality. Everything was very earthy and natural looking…the town had an organic quality to it. I think Kamakura, for me at least, was best to be enjoyed in the dusk…it still has a dream like quality lingering in my memory. It was refreshing after being in the bustling big city for so long. …Walking with Fint, in the dusky, light drizzle, holding hands, drinking coffee…so nice. This was a great date spot. Fint got it right again…no surprise there! ;)
Kamakura is so quaint…and quiet; a wonderful place to spend the afternoon…shopping and eating. They have very cute boutique shops and little restaurants. We had some sausages at a little street shop before heading on to the scariest place in Japan, that we found.
Up a pretty little country ally…with the moonlight shinning…should have been very romantic…however, it was close to a nightmare! Everyone who knows me, knows I have an irrational fear of a certain creepy crawler. And once we were very deep into this pretty little ally way…I looked up and seen them…HUGE (quite possibly the largest I have ever seen in person) ICKY, spiders!!!! Okay, enough of that…but just so you know…I was there, I seen them…and yes I did live.
This earthy little boutique town was just beautiful; it was another of those places I hope to visit again in the future. Before we left we drank coffees and ate pastries in a coffee shop…a very romantic spot in Japan, near Tokyo.
Mount Fuji-san (Mount Fuji)Our last weekend in Japan, Fint and I decided to head to Hakone to see the famous Mount Fuji and the changing leaves of the surrounding forests. It was beautiful and very surreal…it is so iconic and to see it in person is amazing. We got up early to go and lucky we did…because Mount Fuji disappeared into the mist as soon as we finished photographing it!
Even though it was quite a bit colder in Hakone than in Tokyo, we still had a wonderful day. We took a train called the “Romance Car” up to Hakone…while there we took trains, buses, cable cars and even a pirate ship to get around! From the cable cars we got a bird’s eye view of the smoking sulfuric fields…strange and pretty. The sulfuric smell was something entirely different…like rotten eggs. Fint was a bit disappointed with the weather on the day, but it was still extremely beautiful.
Last Day in Tokyo
Fint and I spent our last day and night in Tokyo in style. We had lunch at a little noodle shop in Yoyogi and then spent the day shopping and drinking coffee in Harajaku…I have to say, the girls were in full getup and good form for our send off…which made me very happy! Then we went to take a look at the nighttime skyline at the viewing platform of the Sunshine Building in Ikebukuru. We were very naughty though and ate McTarriaki burgers at McDonald’s! I am going to miss this place!
Complicated Japanese Toilets with Heated Seats!
Home Sweaty Home
Well we are back home…and Tokyo we love you, but we also love our home in Kuala Lumpur too! I am actually welcoming the muggy air! Oh yeah…and the rains are here in KL, but unlike Tokyo at this time of year, it is still warm! Good to be home…for a while. :)
Photos Around Tokyo
Click photo to enlarge.
At the top of Sunshine Building
Fint's first taste of Michigan was in Japan! And it was yummy!
Street Fashion Shoot
Getting on the JR
