Tokyo

Japan’s nickname, The Land of the Rising Sun, was given it by their neighbours to the west, China.  Not the only gift – China gave Japan much of the foundation of its civilization, including written language, religion, art, political organization and more.  These traditions have evolved, however, into a land and culture quite different.

As is so common in Asia, a national holiday was under way upon our arrival.  Tokyo Station was the only place in the neighborhood that had restaurants open for business.  In spite of jet lag and a spirited holiday crowd, we tracked down noodles and tempura for dinner.  Then a soak in the roof-top onsen (hot-springs bath) at our hotel before collapsing into bed.

Japanese breakfasts generally incorporate many small dishes – including a bit of grilled or steamed fish, an egg, miso soup, rice, vegetables, salad, pickles, and a few bites of fruit.  Delicious and nutritious….

Although still winter, plum blossoms were out in places.

First visit was to the Kikkoman Soy Sauce Factory on the edge of Tokyo.  An iconic element of Japanese cuisine, it will become a staple in our stateside cuisine.

Over two full days here, several of the usual tourist haunts were visited.  

We also went to a “small sumo stable”.  Meaning, I guess that not only were there not many wrestlers, but they were also of less intimidating stature than most you hear about.

The big fish market in Tokyo limits visits by outsiders, so we felt lucky to be there, especially since it will be moved to a more remote location in the next year or so.  Seemed like a good place to have sushi for lunch!

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A tour of the National Printing Bureau gave us a real appreciation for the many ways currency is protected from counterfeiting…..

A juggler performs during “sake-hour” at the hotel each evening.  She has a great time!

A short visit to Tokyo – we are looking forward to getting out into the countryside and will be heading north toward Nagano by bullet train in the morning, stopping at a copper mine on the way….