April 13 - Tokyo, Japan

April 14, 2024

Tokyo is Japan's capital and the world's most populous metropolis. It is also one of Japan's 47 prefectures, consisting of 23 central city wards and multiple cities, towns and villages west of the city center. The Izu and Ogasawara Islands are also part of Tokyo. Prior to 1868, Tokyo was known as Edo. On my excursion we drove through Ginza (I didn't take any pictures), which is basically Rodeo Drive of Tokyo.

Tokyo may be crowded, but nothing was more crowded than Asakusa, Sensoji Temple. It is the most famous and photographed of Tokyo's temples. It is the oldest Buddhist temple in the capital, and and constantly has incense burning in front.

You could buy blessings/wishes for things such as, passing a test, good health, good harvest, etc.

Did I mention how crowded it was.

There is a a five story Pagoda there, which we weren't allowed entrance.

We were told that Samurai were around during the Edo period (1603-1867). And Imperial Square is a park that was once a Samurai Estate. It is encircled by a moat and tall walls. The only access was "The Bridge". The building seen below was the Samurai warehouse.

The Imperial Park is also a Bonsai Tree park. I was surprised to learn Bonsais come in miniature or large

And because it was once a Samurai Estate, there is a Monument to them.

We got a glimpse of Imperial Palace, where the current Emperor 'Naruhito' resides

Now for the fun things. There were people dressed up in traditional clothing.

Including my friends on the ship

And rickshaws were everywhere

Cool Structures

Tokyo Skytree is a broadcasting and observation tower. It became the tallest tower in Japan in 2010 and reached its full height of 634m (2080ft) in March 2011, making it the tallest tower in the world and the third largest structure.

The Asahi beer building was built in 1989 and is topped with the Asahi Flame, also known as Flamme d’Or. The monument of a golden fire is said to represent the burning heart of Asahi beer and was inspired by the Olympic flame. Unfortunately, that’s not how it looks to most people. Locals and tourists alike are often confused by the monument’s ambiguous shape. It’s now commonly referred to as the “Golden Turd.” The building has earned its own nickname as well, “the Poo Building.”