Our adventure feels like it has now begun. We have left the comfort and relaxation of Hawaii and the US and have arrived in Tokyo, Japan! This city is huge. We decided to stay in Shibuya which is like the Times Square of NYC. Lots of people and lots of flashing signs. It's also home to the busiest intersection in the world, Shibuya Crossing. No matter what time of day we crossed, this intersection was a rush.
Our time in Tokyo focused mostly around two things; temples and food! However, we made sure to explore the neighborhoods around our daily destinations. We visited Meiji Shrine and then explored the wacky neighborhood of Harajuku. We discovered small yakitori (skewered chicken) bars in Shibuya where we befriended and drank with two Japanese businessmen, Hato and Kondo; hilarious times ensued. We went to the Tsukiji fish market where we saw fish we've never even heard of and enjoyed our first sushi meal, wow. From there we explored the Hamarikyu Gardens. We checked out the insane Akihabra area filled with electronic stores, deafening pachinko parlors, anime stores and bright lights! We walked through Asakusa where we visited the Senso-ji Shrine and then walked to the large and beautiful Ueno Park. Our legs feel like jello.
The great thing about all this walking in Tokyo is that you get to replenish with the following: ramen, soba, sushi, curry, tonkatsu, tempura, yakitori and lots of snacks from Lawson's and 7-11. A highlight of the trip was dinner and (too many) drinks with Danny's friend Chiye. She took us to a delicious restaurant and this awesome bar filled with small bars. Hard to explain but picture a market with individual bars instead of food stalls. This was a culture shock moment to us as we witnessed a transformation from a pretty reserved people into the biggest party animals we've ever seen! EVERYONE was hammered. This is why we wanted to travel.
Tokyo was great! But it's time to leave the big, bright, loud city and see the rest of Japan. Thanks for the good times Tokyo!
