Tokyo
julio
Having not spent an extensive amount of time in Tokyo this was our first deep dive into Japan’s megalopolis. It did not disappoint and filled us deeply with memories and a desire to return the second we left. There exists a kind of perfection, ultra consideration and grounded spirit in the ways of old Japan which make it such a contrast from western culture and ways of being. It gets under your skin and becomes part of the way you want to see the rest of the world. “Why don’t we do this like Japan” becomes a constant thought and spoken phrase. If there is an efficient, thoughtful and functional way to do things, chances are the Japanese have thought of it, developed it and implemented it and it all performs in perfect unison. It's glorious.
Tokyo Tower and the endless skyline of surely one of the most impressive cities on the planet
We took the JR Romance car train to Hakone near Mt.Fuji. There are boiling sulphur springs in the Owakudani Valley which are famous for the eggs which are boiled in them - hence the black color of the eggs.
Getting caught in a rainstorm we decided to stop at the only restaurant available and open for lunch. They only served a kind of Yam paste/slime that although charming was a shock to our western palettes. Christina enjoyed watching me attempt to finish every last bit.
We went to the The National Art Center of Tokyo to see the art of Yayoi Kausama. Her work focuses on polka dots, pumpkins and brightly colored paintings. An amazing life and artist.
The Nozumi, ultra fast bullet train or Shinkansen
The beautiful and stark city of Yokohama (above)
This is the headquarters of the Asahi Beer Company on the banks of the Sumida River - aka "the golden turd" (kin no unko, 金のうんこ) I really enjoyed the new Asahi Clear
These delicious treats are called Taiyaki and made with sweet potato or adzuki bean filling served warm. So delicious!
We are in love with the Japanese show Kantaro:The Sweet Toothed Salaryman on Netflix
A local police station.
Sake on a cold night
The famous Harajuku district which used to be a haven for Bands, Punks, Ravers and extreme fashion now looking quite homogenized.
Near our place was Yoyogi Park where there was a pony park for the locals of all ages to enjoy. Everywhere should have a pony park. We went almost everyday.
Incredible Green Tea or Matcha Mochi
We arrived just before the Sakura or Cherry Blossoms arrived in full force
Shibuya
The things you see while walking home
An owl cafe where you pay to enter and enjoy refreshments with the owls
Delicious market food selections
FOOD FACTS: Rice is by far the most important crop in Japan and planted on the best agricultural land. Other crops grown in Japan include soybeans, wheat, barley, and a large variety of fruit and vegetables.