Tokyo 1 week! — Mika's Photos

An exciting, extensive, and exhausting one-week adventure in one of the most explosive cities in the world: Tokyo! Yokoso Japan!

And he's off to Narita for the first time that's not a layover!

I follow 2 days later; here, have made it to the JR-operated Narita Express.

I find the man at a cafe in Shibuya Station, enjoying Japanese-style French toast.

Voila - here's his very very compact hotel room.

These pastries in Tokyu look delish!

Shibuya is as hopping at night as you'd expect!

The masses cross the famous Shibuya intersection when the light says "go!"

Lots of people seem to be out to stroll in the evening, even in the wintertime.

Finally at a Uniqlo in Japan... but the stock look surprisingly like what we saw in Bangkok.

At Tokyu Hands, you can buy models of every Shinkansen train.

You can even buy model department stores and office buildings!

These are some really tiny Christmas outfits.

Shibuya's very picturesque at night, even in winter.

This group of tourists knew how to stand out in the crowds.

An overwhelming selection of Japanese sauces.

These cereal boxes all look familiar... but something's not quite right.

Dinner the first night, bought entirely from a convenience store -- since it was late by the time we were done exploring.

Yum yum, a natto roll.

The view from the hotel in the morning, while the moon's still in the sky. Prime Shibuya real estate.

I think this was milk I was drinking for breakfast...

A modern building right next door to the hotel.

Graffiti is universal!

My first stop is the waterside neighborhood near Mita and Tamachi stations.

As I walk toward the harbor, the Haneda monorail zooms by. It was packed at rush hour!

Canals throughout the neighborhoods near the water.

This could be a refreshing area in which to live.

One of the many mom-mobiles out on the street at the start of the day. One kid's already been dropped off.

Two Japanese-style clown bikes.

I'm pretty sure I just crossed this canal over at that other bridge.

The official rainbow pigeon of east Tokyo.

Christmas decorations were up throughout the city -- where you would, and wouldn't, expect them.

Aha, my true destination: the Rainbow Bridge.

The Rainbow Bridge (レインボーブリッジ) is a suspension bridge crossing northern Tokyo Bay between Shibaura Pier and the Odaiba waterfront development.

In the winter, pedestrians are allowed to cross by foot between 10am and 6pm; there are walking paths on the lower deck, on both sides of the bridge.

I chose the northern path, since the sun was too harsh on the south side. Here, a great view of the ports on the "Tokyo" side.

Tokyo Taawaa.

A river taxi whisks passengers downstream.

Another view of Tokyo's development.

Uh oh! A 5% is rolling down the street up ahead!

This brave construction worker performs some maintenance on the outer side of the bridge.

View from the Odaiba side. By the way, it's called the Rainbow Bridge because it's illuminated in rainbow colors at night, by solar energy obtained during the day.

Some of the latest attractions in Odaiba, plus evidence of nearby Haneda airport!

The rather quiet beach and Odaiba Seaside Park.

Frighteningly, this is a cat pet shop.

Did you know that Lady Liberty vacations in Tokyo in the winter months?

The complex Fuji TV building.

The building is the headquarters of Fuji Television, but also open to the public.

This robot thinks he's missing something... but can't quite put his finger on what...

Bike parking!

The Daikanransha, a 115 meter tall ferris wheel that's part of a giant mall complex on the island.

The shopping complex is called "Palette Town" -- perhaps that explains the colored cars.

Another interesting stop on the island -- Toyota's "Megaweb", a giant show room for it's latest and greatest products.

Here, you can opt to test drive any of it's current models.

There's a super-neat test drive track that snakes through the showroom, and the adjoining property outside.

Here, they demonstrate the accessibility features of their newest models.

Toyota's new plug-in Prius is cut open to show its innards -- and how it works, of course.

Everyone can afford to bring home their favorite model!

This was only the first of many "flushing toilet" masking sound generators I saw. Too bad it sounded more like a dying duck.

An ice cream vending machine! I tried the mint choc chip, of course.

Back on the mainland, it's lunch time -- and these businessmen are hungry!

One of many lines at the popular lunch joints.

I'm heading to Zojoji Temple, the head temple of the Jodo sect of buddhism.

There seemed to be a big event -- a funeral? -- going on, so I didn't get much closer.

There are many Jizo statues throughout the temple grounds.

They line the perimeter of at least 2 sides of the temple.

Next up: a treck up to Tokyo Tower, to finally see it in person. No need to go up though.

Cute souvenir socks... probably the least tacky of all the souvenirs for sale.

A pioneering green building, complete with tree design.

A more traditional Tokyo office and apartment building.

The neighborhoods around Tokyo tower are fairly commercial and otherwise unremarkable.

And so, it's time to hit the subway to check out someplace else. I'm pretty sure sleeping is contagious in Tokyo subway cars.

The Ameyoko market is a hopping area right under the Yamanote line, between Okachimachi and Ueno stations.

The streets in the immediate vicinity are closed to vehicles.

Hmm. Pickled octopus?

In addition to Bangkok-style cheap clothes sellers, there were lots of fresh food vendors too.

It was mid-afternoon on a Tuesday, but everyone seemed to be out and about.

Granny selects her dinner.

This seaweed seller seems to be deep in thought... or has an itchy nose.

Only the finest mikan for sale in Tokyo.

My big purchase of the afternoon: a fat taiyaki.

Here's how they sell fruit in a Japanese market: on a skewer, for 100 Yen. In Bangkok, you'd get the whole pineapple for that price!

Where two shopping streets converge.

Not sure what this guy's mission is.

A bustling intersection on the edge of Ueno Park.

A cute little girl hones her photography skills using mom's mobile phone.

Kiyomizu Kannon Temple, inside Ueno Park.

I wonder if this guy sees fewer people during the winter months.

Apparently, this temple is particularly popular among women hoping to have children! Hmm.

A real contrast of colors.

Winter in the park: the days are shorter, and the shadows longer.

The gingko trees were dropping their leaves all over the city.

Shinobazu Pond is overcome by dead lotuses who are patiently waiting for next spring.

Nearby, school kids enjoy the end of the day.

An old house, in a quiet old neighborhood.

Japanese Maples are also beautiful at this time of year.

One of the entrance gates to the University of Tokyo's Hongo campus.

Every university needs a co-op shop!

Yasuda Auditorium looks quite grand -- and almost evil -- in the late afternoon lighting.

Grand, ivy league-esque walkway on campus.

Reserved parking -- for bicycles!

Outside the university's hospital, taxis queue up to take patients home. This one's a hybrid!

Freshly made rice crackers tempt passers-by.

It's a bit presumptuous for this booth to call itself an "Official ID Studio."

It's bad news when a subway line requires a complicated key to explain how it works.

Hey, some of these passengers are actually awake!

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building has a free observatory on its 45th floor.

Unfortunately, it's indoors, so there's a glare -- but it offers some impressive views.

Based on the buildings' sizes, you can guess which direction this faces.

Shinkansen chopsticks! They had 5 or 6 different models.

At night in Shinjuku, it's really easy to spot dad's Yodobashi Camera.

Shibuya's equally bright.

These are definitely the largest *real* traffic cones I've ever encountered.

Tonight, we're out to explore the seedier side of Shibuya.

This area is aptly named "Love Hotel Hill."

Hmm... shall we "rest", or "stay" the night?

Hopping night life.

One of the funnier billboards.

Lots of neat 2012 planners were on sale at book stores.

Our attempt at vegetarian dinner at a real restaurant: first, veggie tempura.

Okra -- okay, that's a recognizable vegetable.

Next, udon with a giant umeboshi and other non-meat goodies.

Excited for the non-convenience-store Japanese food.

No winter trip to Japan is complete without fresh mikan.

The ties that they use to seal the bags are pretty neat -- they snap shut.

The Shinagawa area is pretty bleak on a dreary, overcast winter day.

But luckily, Santa's here to spread some holiday spirit.

Some narrow little buildings got squashed in between giants.

The Sengakuji Temple is hopping on December 14th, when an annual ceremony is held to commemorate the 47 ronin's avenge.

Just like any other temple fair, there are special stalls selling all sorts of goodies.

I guess they're expecting kids?

The graveyard that commemorates the 47 ronin is off to the side of the temple.

It was still fairly quiet when I was there in the early morning, but crowds became increasingly heavy even while I was there.

Inside the graveyard area, each visitor first picks up a tin of incense sticks -- at least one for each grave.

Then visitors walk around placing one incense stick at the base of each grave. It can get very smoky!

There are other areas to place the incense, too.

Businessmen and grannies alike came out for the festival.

Some of the graves of the 47 ronin.

The temple expects thousands of visitors each year on this date.

Incense and offerings.

Another Granny -- who, perhaps wisely, came with a face mask.

More visitors.

It's getting smoky, alright.

A much-needed gang of security patrol, to keep the rowdy grandmothers and businessmen in check.

Special gifts for sale.

A fishing game for kids... except I didn't see a single kid while I was there.

Stopping in front of the main temple building too.

Near the temple, lots of traditional souvenirs for sale.

Here, sellers of hand-made bamboo wares. The man chats while his wife weaves a basket in the background.

Peculiar, and somewhat sad-looking snacks.

Not sure what this building is! Looks like some kind of auditorium.

A massive 5-way intersection in the Shinagawa environs.

Surprise! It's our buddy Tokyo Taawaa again!

Up in the Sugamo neighborhood, solar panels line either side of the main street.

This is the Jizo Dori shopping street, which is affectionately known as the "Old Ladies' Harajuku." That's not too far off!

I was easily the tallest person there by two head heights.

Oh no! Did a granny fall down?

A seller of glutinous rice balls is very popular... even among the elderly population. I guess their teeth are still in good working order.

Cute little charms.

Colorful Japanese handkerchiefs.

Clever socks, made specifically for wearing under Japanese sandals.

Another major Granny attraction... I couldn't get close enough to see!

This pickle seller is enjoying the attention from all the ladies!

Giant cabbage-seafood pancakes?

More veggie-friendly pancake snacks, with several different fillings.

Whatever this is, it's definitely an entire meal, not just a snack!

More Grannies out for the day.

People were enjoying hot, fresh fermented rice drink. So I joined them!

The famed Takadanobaba Station!

It's quite hopping up there now -- and tastefully decorated.

Nearby, the lunch line at a hot spot continues on the other side of the parking lot.

I wonder if the water level in this canal ever gets any higher.

My destination: the Toden Arakawa Line, a streetcar line in northern Tokyo.

It operates 5 different series of rolling stock -- some more classic looking than the others.

One terminal is in the middle of the street in Waseda.

It's just a single car, with minimal seating and lots of standing room.

The car never does a U-turn, so there's a place for the driver to sit at either end.

By traveling the length of this route, you get to see a lot of quieter, more traditional Tokyo neighborhoods.

These travelers have to stop and wait for us to pass.

When the gates go up, the people scurry across.

The other terminal is at Minowabashi in north east Tokyo.

There, there's a long covered market.

The backs of homes are quite plain.

Did I mention that this trolley is also a Granny Mobile?

Back in Shibuya, the game's afoot!

Heading out at night, to go do some explorin'.

A super-useful feature on the JR trains -- diagrams showing where the various platform exits are, relative to the train cars. And of course, it tells you the car you're in!

Roppongi at night -- even more hopping than during the day.

They say it's for rich foreigners, but we didn't see much evidence of extra effort to cater to farang.

A big duty-free shop certainly knows how to attract attention.

Why, it's our Tokyo Taawaa buddy again.

Did I mention that cowichan sweaters are one of the fashion crazes right now?

Overwhelming?

At most noodle shops, you first pay for your meal at a vending machine, and then you take the ticket stub to the counter to be prepared.

Here, we seem to have successfully ordered meat-free udon.

Perfect for a cold night.

A pristine zebra crossing, on a pristine city road. Not sure how they do it.

My new friends.

Riding a bus back to Shibuya. Only ever figured out that one bus line.

The next day, took a trip down to Kamakura. Here, waiting for the electric train at Fujisawa station.

It's 4 cars long -- two two-car trains adjoined. For most of the line's length, it's a single track. Trains can only pass each other in designated stations and double-tracked areas.

First stop at Hase -- the famous Daibutsu.

Don't forget to wash your hands first.

Have to say, compared to Thailand's giant buddhas, this guy was a bit underwhelming.

There were lots of school kids out for a visit.

He seems to lead a peaceful life by the sea.

And he has no lack of visitors.

Wow. I think his sandals might just be bigger than mine.

Unlike Thai giant buddhas, you can climb inside this one! They say the statue was cast in 30 separate stages.

The leaves were beautiful in Kamakura, too.

Especially with the right winter light.

Next popular stop on the tour: the Hasedera.

The Hasedera is a temple of the Jodo sect, built up on a hill overlooking the sea.

There's a beautiful landscaped garden at the base of the temple.

Visitors write their new year wishes on paper, and then tie them up.

At one of the many shrines within the temple.

Colorful flags.

The main temple buildings are up a hill, about 20 meters above the entrance.

Ornate decoration.

Colorful incense burn outside the main building. Japanese incense don't seem to have a handle.

But they are much more colorful than Thai incense sticks.

This reclining Tuesday buddha...

Is made entirely of corrugated cardboard! Cool.

The temple does afford beautiful views of the sea.

Under an umbrella nearby the observation deck.

Giant bamboo that are easily 3 stories tall.

Why not go for some more stairs? Up the Prospect Road we go.

Only once you reach the top do they warn you of the impending bees and snakes.

I find it very neat how the town wraps around the hill.

More views of the sea, and the mountainous landscape in the background.

Here, they show you what you would've seen, if only you'd come to visit in the summer.

This is a rotating book case... but they no longer demonstrate its rotating abilities.

Nevertheless, it's impressively ornate.

Sticky rice balls!

This is quite the warning sign.

A cheery statue.

Here's the entrance to a small cave on the temple property.

Inside, you can light candles...

...or leave behind tiny little sculptures with messages on the back.

I can only imagine the accidental domino effect.

Even photographing was difficult, because they were perched everywhere in the cave -- on walls, on the ceiling... it made steadying myself very difficult.

It took me a second to realize that it was unusual that I could read this message!

Outside the temple, a neat looking traditional building.

The seaside was not too inviting...

...but that didn't stop everyone!

There were lots of crazy winter surfers out in the water.

This ice cream won't cool you down, but it'll keep you coolish.

Heading back to the Enoshima Electric Railway, to travel from Hase to Kamakura station.

Apparently they still use rickshaws in Kamakura. At least, the tourists do.

Funny.

This stroller is not for a baby -- but for the big white lab walking next to it!

One of Kamakura's main attractions is a busy walking street.

You can imagine the woman who makes these dolls...

...and she probably looks just like this!

This fat cat's in the holiday spirit.

Selling umeboshi individually... and at 200 yen apiece!

Wow, this cross walk shames even Shibuya's!

This is Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, an important Shinto shrine.

Please, no bonfires.

The shrine is at the geographical and cultural center of the city of Kamakura, which has largely grown around it.

More stairs!

Not too many here, though.

The shrine used to house a 1000-year-old gingko tree, but it was uprooted in a snowstorm last year.

It's guarded by two colorful warriors.

A group of schoolboys collectively writes a wish on a placard.

Back in town on the shopping street, more colorful Japanese prints.

Now, I'm off to Enoshima Island, which is connected to the mainland by a long bridge. BTW, those dots in the water are surfers!

Here, a surf shop is open for business as usual, in the middle of the winter!

Japanese recycling is very complex. Not only do you separate plastic, cans and glass, but you also separate the plastic cap from the rest of the bottle!

This poodle's out for a walk in style.

Surf's up in Enoshima!

The early afternoon sun was pretty harsh though.

There were a small handful of fishermen in the area -- but I didn't see a single one catch anything.

Appropriate warning signs posted along the beach.

Here's the long walkway out to the island. You can also take a public bus.

Another Mom Mobile and her four kids (including the 2 in front) go by.

Once you reach the island, you find the entrance to a temple, the approach to which is on a steep hill lined with shops.

Freshly-made rice crackers, at tourist prices!

These two chefs are preparing mochi balls.

Here's the Enoshima Shrine, which comprises 3 separate shrines and is built all the way up the hill.

Needless to say, this one's going to involve lots of stairs.

At the first shrine, there's a special new year's circle -- I saw the Japanese visitors walking a figure-8 through it.

But if the stairs are too much for you...

... you can always opt to take the hill-side escalators up!

The temple affords a beautiful view of the mainland.

The walk continues in a little garden.

These flowers look like they were planted only the day before.

Still not done hanging the new year's lanterns.

Further up, an even higher view! Here, all the island's (fishing?) boats.

More wishes.

And still more stairs!

Finally at the summit -- where a fat cat waits to greet climbers.

This is as high as you can go, without paying to go up the lighthouse.

These two grandpas were so involved in comparing their photos that they didn't notice they were being photographed!

These two pups are eager to get to the top!

Another view as the sun sets on Enoshima.

Talk about having all your boats in a row!

Heading back to Tokyo on an express train -- it took about an hour and 20 minutes.

Back in Tokyo, some sculptures jump rope on the side of a national theater building.

Wow, this cake looks more posh than most jewelry displays.

Super excited by the whole- and organic- foods grocery store that we stumbled upon.

HOLY TUNA SUSHI! It's "for vegetarian"! The first acknowledgement we'd seen in the country that some people may not in fact eat animals!

Other people were more interested in the organic Japanese beer.

Omotesando looks beautiful at night with its lit trees.

To make matters better, we then stumbled on a vegetarian cafe for dinner! Too many options!

This fresh tofu salad was one of the best things I've eaten in a long time. The tofu practically melted when touched.

This cute tofu burger was deceptively filling!

A giant Christmas grenade at the side of one shopping complex.

Wow, too many signs to choose.

The famous Harajuku station, at night.

Hmm. Those destination stamps that I attempted to collect 20 years ago are still being used!

This is the office buliding that houses BCG's Tokyo office.

A nearby river was very reflective in the winter sun.

These coin lockers in Tokyo station accept the same Suica cash card that works in all the train networks.

This taxi one-ups the new Prius cabs: it's a zero-emission taxi.

I came to see the famous Tokyo station, but instead saw the scaffolding that hides a multi-year construction overhaul. Maybe next time!

In the past 5 years, there's been lots of construction to the immediate west of Tokyo station, including several multi-use (mall-and-office) buildings. This is the Shin Marunouchi Building.

Of course, they all have their decorations up!

I found all the housewives of Tokyo! They're lining up for what appear to be eclairs.

Although Marunouchi has supposedly had a resurgence in the past few years, to me it just feels like any other posh downtown area of office buildings and luxury designers.

We saw many women out in their kimonos and winter kimono jackets.

Here's the moat surrounding the Imperial Palace. I didn't get any closer.

Here's ... a cabbage patch? ... in the middle of Hibiya Park.

Again, the leaves were beautiful. The more temperate climate in Tokyo seems to prolong the autumn colors!

Still waters + clear sky = near-perfect reflections.

This guy attracted the attention of all the photographers in the park.

Some photographers even abandoned their cameras to get a closer look.

He seems to know that he's the center of attention -- and the giant fish in the pond feel neglected.

A fountain in the middle of the park reflects nicely under the morning sun.

More beautiful leaves and pond reflections!

Why do Japanese Maples seem more refined than Candian Maples?

Here's the plaza area of Tokyo Midtown, a new multi-use development in Roppongi. Mika says that Masashi's former company developed it.

It's a fairly sizeable development that contains office, residential, commercial, hotel, and leisure space, as well as the tallest building in Tokyo and the new quarters of the Suntory Museum of Art.

Since small pets are popular these days, they have to make provisions accordingly.

There were many neat design stores on the top floor. Here, on the bottom floor, more classic Japanese fashion!

Here's something I'd never seen before: toe socks for JUST your toes (not your entire feet).

One of many intricate Japanese Christmas cards.

This Christmas tree...

...is made entirely of Santas!

Um... perhaps there are slightly more PC choices for the name of your chocolate bar?

These are chopsticks!

Very cute Japanese postcards.

Little dog parking over there!

This pair was just the cutest! I don't know if the girl belonged to the dog, but she certainly acted as if they were BFFs.

In the ground floor, one of the shops offers daily cooking classes.

Outside, there's a nice eating area overlooking a park. I had my lunch here.

This building is Design Sight 21_21, a design gallery/workshop created by fashion designer Issey Miyake and architect Tadao Ando.

In the park, even the playground is neatly designed.

The dog's pretty excited about the leaning swing set.

These flowers were happily dancing at the entrance to a parking garage.

Here's Japan's famous Hachiko tribute, at the center of Shibuya.

Egads! This girl decided to wear Hachiko instead!

Keep up with the flow!

In Tokyu, Japan's famous perfect melons. Look closely -- it's up to Y8.400 for a single melon!

A store of -- you guessed it -- boxer shorts.

Here, nice fat fish are in the fryer.

Now we're at Sensoji temple in Asakusa.

Sittha's workshop is over, so now I'm not sightseeing alone!

There's a hopping walking street leading up to the temple.

Colorful osembei!

That's me!

Cute school girls, who could double as construction workers.

The entrance to the famous Sensoji.

The temple's famous 5-story pagoda.

This is Tokyo's oldest temple, and one of its most significant.

Chinese tourists enjoy inhaling the warm incense.

Washing our hands in really cold winter water before entering.

LOTS of people -- both tourists and locals -- were coming on this Friday afternoon.

Seems like lots of people also come to just hang out.

One of the many giant lanterns.

No shortage of visitors!

During World War II, the temple was bombed and for the most part destroyed. It was rebuilt later and is a symbol of rebirth and peace to the Japanese people.

These two women came in traditional robes.

What a giant door.

This quiet garden on the temple ground is kept in traditional Japanese style. With an amusement park in the background!

Contemplative!

Giant carp know where to look for food.

Strings of cranes inside one of the memorials on the temple grounds.

One little boy just got off school.

This poor baby girl was being plopped all over the place for Christmas photos.

This snack -- a deep-fried bun? -- seemed to be a favorite with the locals.

Some more unusual Japanese masks.

This man expertly flips fresh Osembei at a rate of many pieces per second.

Aha! These stickers -- which I got as a souvenir in 1993 -- are still for sale now!

Some visitors actually use the rickshaws in the area!

I'm pretty sure this print is exactly the same as my Granny Costume!

Now we're in Kappabashi -- also known as Kitchen Town -- a street famous for its kitchenware stores.

Another view of the new Tokyo Sky Tree.

Cute little tempura chopstick holders.

This very neat store sells all the plastic food that restaurants use in their display cases!

He had almost any kind of food you can imagine -- and it was incredibly lifelike.

An assortment of sushi rolls. Getting hungry?

More fresh fish.

And your toasts, waffles, donuts and baguettes. Each piece was over 1000 yen!

I actually thought these mochi were real! (And was ridiculed accordingly.)

We found a nice pottery store, and brought back some small plates in this design.

This massive temple looks especially dramatic with the looming dark clouds overhead.

Back at Tokyo Midtown for its famous Christmas Light Extravaganza!

It was a sound-and-lights show that depicts some portion of the creation of the universe... or something like that.

For dinner that night, it's vegetarian bento boxes at home -- from the whole- and organic- foods store that we found the day before.

Mmm! A giant veggie sushi roll, and cute little soy sauce from the convenience store across the street.

On Saturday morning, it was time to move hotels -- via JR!

The Hyatt Regency was built in an era that bricks were hot.

And inside, the lobby is really quite grand.

Going back to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government buildings for another shot at the observatory -- this time in the morning.

They represent their elevator services like a subway map, showing connections and express routes! For us, the yellow route.

Umm.... what kind of guide is that exactly?

Beautiful, clear views on the Saturday morning.

Looking east-ish, from the skyscraper area just west of Shinjuku... in the background, the new Tokyo Sky Tree.

And a surprisingly clear view of Fuji-san!

It's still pretty far ... but not a cloud between Tokyo and Fuji-san.

The Hyatt was located right on the edge of a public park.

Reflections in the adjacent tower.

A ball of... panda balls. How is this souvenir related to the observation tower?

The Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower, a 50-story educational facility in Shinjuku.

This new JR train is clever -- the seats fold up for extra people-packing during rush hour.

An exciting escallator -- with a flat patch in the middle of the ascent!

And it's Akihabara for the afternoon!

The giant bright posters went well with the gingko leaves.

An aptly-painted car for the area.

Bet you never thought you'd want to eat headphones!

Trying out a swanky new 3D TV in a big electronic store.

Wow! This TV was unbelievably thin.

My new tourist buddy.

Not sure why you'd be compelled to jump off the side of the escalator... but please don't.

One of the many cutesy girls who stands on the sidewalk handing out brochures for the various stores.

Colorful phones seem to really be hot right now.

Finally, you can have whatever pastelle-colored hair your heart desires.

These three girls come all the way to Akihabara, and decide that the tree is the most exciting thing to play with.

Pristine sky, pristine road... really, not sure how they do it!

Lots of people out to browse on the weekend.

The leaves on the ground really make it feel more like late October.

One of the big electronics stores offers free trials of the latest X-Box game... for all passers-by to see.

One of the many manga stores. Manga manga!

These mouse pads have, ahem, clever wrist rests.

Another girl advertising for a store.

One thing's for sure -- Tokyo's not a dull city!

Mister Donut! Finally we can try the Japanese grandmother of one of our favorite Bangkok joints.

And there are lots of special new treats to try!

I think this was a caramel pecan.

The shop also affords great views of the bustling pedestrians outside. And you can see what color is in fashion this winter!

Not sure what these flabby-lip guys are, but they're quite popular. I think they come from some keyboard characters: ( ' * w * ' ) ...?

Overly-friendly robots!

This bloodhound knew he was the king of the town!

He looks so at-ease enjoying a Saturday spin in the back of his convertable.

The Chuo Line local passes over the neighborhood on its way across the river.

A neat Sega arcade game -- very oriental.

Bicycles hidden off on a sidestreet.

This shop lets you rent private rooms and special chairs 24 hours a day to watch videos. I guess that's one alternative to finding friends.

Akihabara is really the place for all things electronic -- even components!

These wire cutters are for engineers only!

Anything a current passes through, you can probably find here.

Bye bye, Akihabara. You've been interesting!

Back at the hotel to check in, the skysraper neighborhood feels awfully crowded!

When we returned to the Hyatt, a wedding was afoot!

Our room was really nice -- modern, recently renovated. A pleasant surprise.

And we had a great view of the adjacent park.

The entire room was no larger than our Bangkok apartment -- but felt so much more functional. Could've lived there!

At Mr. and Mrs. Kanai's condo for afternoon tea. Here, I'm showing them photos on my iPad. The woman on the right is their half-Thai, half-Japanese neighbor who lives next door.

Mrs. Kanai asked, "Has Mike gotten larger?"

They looked just the same as last time I saw them -- at least 4 years ago.

At Iidabashi station, it's another funky escallator that levels out in the middle of the descent!

Again back at the Hyatt, living it up in the club lounge. It came with the room, what can I say.

Enjoying the Japanese perks.

At night, we're out to explore the hot areas around Shinjuku. Here's the affectionately named "Piss Alley."

It's a narrow narrow alley lined with tiny food shops on either side.

Most shops are only wide enough for the kitchen counter and one row of seats at the bar. Usually, the wall serves as a chair back!

As you can imagine, there were lots of aromatic, savory smells in the street.

Here's the famous Kabukicho area in all its nighttime glory.

It wasn't all red light material. There was lots of Karaoke, too. Unless "karaoke" means something else these days.

Clearly, it's another popular evening hangout!

This restaurant was packed inside, and had a huge mass of people waiting outside for seats.

The windows in this Karaoke bar were flashing all different colors.

Based on the pink billboard, we're not totally sure what this place offers...

These poor cashiers seemed to be forced to wear these costumes on the job.

A funky castle tops off this karaoke joint.

Even at night, crossing the street is a big production in this city.

Which part of Porky would you like to have for dinner tonight?

This pastry shop -- Beard Papa -- is extremely popular both in Tokyo and in Bangkok.

No shortage of magazines for train enthusiasts.

Enjoying a relaxed breakfast the next morning -- again in our club lounge. Thanks, BCG!

The view of the park from our room.

It's a bird... it's a plane... no, it's a giant butt in the sky!

Poking a giant eye in Shinjuku station.

Off on the Yamanote line, just a short hop to Harajuku.

A Sunday morning trip to Meiji shrine.

We certainly weren't the only shrine-goers.

There were lots of tour groups coming here -- both Asian and farang.

Squashed beer bottles?

This is part of a champagne donation scheme between France and Japan.

Trying to prop up the leaning gate.

Group shot!

The shrine is hopping, even in the winter.

More cold water with which to wash your hands.

This guy ... well, he just sits there.

Lots of people were following my lead.

Another gate at the shrine.

Cute kid out for a morning stroll, too.

These four Japanese women knew how to properly pay respect.

Colorful roof.

Natural walls.

Lots of placards with new year's wishes.

I'd be curious to know what they all say.

Why, it's yet another wedding! This one more traditional than yesterday's.

The bride... in winter wedding apparel.

The full procession.

Unrelated to the wedding, a mom and her son show up in traditional apparel.

In Harajuku, this boy is dressed more modernly.

The famed Takeshita Dori on a Sunday morning -- packed to the brim!

The first person we found in "cosplay" attire was in fact a westerner!

Quick, pick out the Asian in the crowd!

Shocked by the number and density of the crowds.

Another girl dressed up for the occasion.

What's under those clothes? Not much, I guess.

Clever idea for cute socks.

Hope you weren't planning to go anywhere in a hurry!

Menu of salads-in-a-crepe!

You need sun glasses to look at this girl.

More cute socks.

These two girls wore a different type of costume.

Espresso Tea. So strange, I had to try it. (It was warm, by the way.)

Yes. The shoes I've always wanted!

Yowzers. Now there's a radiant model.

Yet another take on the right costume for Harajuku.

This high-end boutique clothing store...

... is for dogs!

This baby looks like he was outfitted from that dog costume shop.

More Sunday shoppers getting ready to charge.

Fluffy little gal going out for a ride in her Sunday best.

These two lucky chaps get blue jeans and leather jackets.

Omotesando again, here in all its daytime glory.

A giant mosaic mural.

Now, at Ginza -- another great strolling area on a Sunday afternoon.

This family came out to take its annual Christmas portrait.

They block off the main street going through Ginza on weekend afternoons and turn it into a walking street.

There were lots of TV crews out, interviewing shoppers on the street. I think it might've been a game show?

In the basement food section of one of the department stores, we found this 100% vegan seller!

She's originally from Taiwan, but now she sells Japanese food and is trying to spread the gospel about vegetarianism in Japan.

Not a bad bento at all!

And we could eat it right in the middle of one of the poshest streets in Tokyo.

It's a good place to (rich) people watch.

Almost as crowded as Harajuku!

Another pooch out in his Sunday suit.

Two more interesting buildings in Ginza.

For good measure, one last group shot, Tokyo.

Back at the hotel to pick up our luggage, we run into the third wedding in 2 days!

I guess it's prime wedding season in Japan!

On the monorail to Haneda airport, someone is sad to be leaving.

Waiting patiently outside the Thai check-in for close to 3 hours. Thai really needs to revise its counter policies.

Boarding time: 0000!

Enjoying Japanese beer and snacks at the ANA lounge in the 1-year-old International Terminal at Haneda. Good-bye, Tokyo!