Transit(ion) in Tokyo

Our all-expenses paid trip home included a layover in Tokyo so, we figured, when else will we have free airfare to Japan? Who cares if taking an extra four days to explore Tokyo means I will only have five days before I start school, and two days before I move in to our new house in Davis? Obviously not me (whether I should have remains to be seen), and that is why I find myself here, in Tokyo, on our third glorious day of eating incredible food, practicing our Japanese, seeing the sights, shopping at 100 yen stores, and drinking sake and beer. 

From what I can tell, Tokyo lives in its own wonderful world. There are few people who can (or will) speak English, and we're lucky if we find English translations on the signage, but that is the beauty of this place. It is 100% unique, with little influence from other countries, languages or cultures. Of course, there is the trend of Engrish t-shirts and the occasional all-tourist destination, but for the most part Tokyo is all Japan. Here is a brief photo tour:

Walking the streets of Harajuku and loving the incredible fashion.

(Photo by Ez)

Posing at the gate to Meiji Park

A wedding ceremony at Meiji Shrine

The major intersection in Shibuya; all the lights turn red for all-pedestrian traffic.

(Photo by Ez)

Tokyo DisneySea! 

We enjoyed Annie & David's Leonardo Challenge, as well as some shows and rollercoasters.

Oh cute doggies, how I've missed you so.

Sensoji Buddhist Temple in Asakusa

Purifying our hands before entering the temple

Eating soba and tempura...Mmmm

Cheers! Sake in Japan is strong.

As our "transition country" from Malaysia to home, I don't think there could have been a better choice. Japan is so different and so (enjoyably) unfamiliar that, no matter how unfamiliar the U.S. will seem to us after being away for so long, it will seem much more like home after being here. I'd like to say we planned it that way, but I'll give credit to the Universe for that one. 

Ok, Japan, goodbye for now. Take good care of your ramen and sushi for us...we'll be back.

Now, it's time to go home.