The Last Lap

Tokyo

When people mention the city, we will naturally associate it with heavy traffic buzzing at every nook and corner. There must be large crowds thronging everywhere and it was just satisfying that we have seen the number 1 city of Japan. 

We touched Odaiba, a large artificial island in Tokyo Bay. It was across the Rainbow Bridge in Central Tokyo. The view is mesmerizing and the evening sun at the background added a perfect hue.

The loving couple had to pose in this manner to have the photo taken.
On ordinary times, we do not do that.
So selfie is truly commendable.

 A good night's rest at Tobu Hotel gave us the much needed energy for a long day in the city before we embarked for home. When in Tokyo, this is a routine place; the Asakusa Kannon Temple. Apparently this is the oldest in Tokyo and many come here to ask for favour, protection and prosperity.

Here too is the shopping spot for all. There are hundreds of small stores offering goods of multiple kinds and colours. Just name them. All things Japanese are found in the shops lining the streets around this temple albeit most are traditional products like kimonos.

 This one product surely caught my attention as I remember dad used to carve mice and squirrels out of the brown brushes and we place them as decorative items around the house. The children will remember it well.

 This father and son team are into some craft making and they seem traditional and I am amazed that the son is obedient enough to continue the family trade.

The items are representative of most stalls found here.

Souvenirs, art and craft and the like.

 The Imperial Palace is in the city of Tokyo. The much loved Emperor is revered among the Japanese. We could not go any closer as it was heavily guarded. The moat around the palace is so typical of all palaces as it provides extra security.

We stole a shot here and that's the closest we could manage.

The park to the palace is vast and spacious.

 High rise buildings are seen from afar.

 The well looked after park is so typical of Japan.

To plant is easy, to keep it well maintained is the test of tenacity.

 Our last shopping was in the city of Ginza.

But before that we were at a mall that had that huge robot representing the futuristic trend of the country. In fact, chores and businesses will be taken over by them one day. The trend is towards that. ROBOTIC in every way.

 Ginza is for the rich and famous.

It is to be seen only.

For the affordable ones, this is a shopping haven for the latest and most trendy.

As tourists, the more spendthrift will find their match here.

But what's there to buy that we cannot have back home?

But how can we leave the country without this kitty product for our Emily?

Dad patiently walked around the mall and finally found it for his beloved grand girl.

Yes, it is time to see Emily again.

She is so adorable, isn't she?

With a look at Tokyo, it also meant the end of the Japan tour.

To God we give thanks for the privilege, journey mercies and good company.