We started with a traditional Japanese breakfast of miso soup, rice, cabbage, corn, fish, pasta salad, jelly, bananas and white bread with strawberry jam before heading off to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. The elevator took us to the 45th floor for some amazing views, but unfortunately the air was not clear enough to view Mt Fuji (which was quite a disappointment to a number of us, who are now inclined to believe that it doesn't really exist). The photo below shows the view of Yoyigi Park, and our accomodation is the set of pink buildings inside the park!
The next step was to take the plunge with the very complicated Tokyo train system and attempt to decipher the whirlwind of numbers and colours. Joan, who has been to Tokyo 6 times previously, took on the role of tour guide and successfully brought us to Asakusa, where we enjoyed an amazing tempura lunch.
Our next stop was Senso-ji temple, which is approached through the Thunder Gate (Kaminarimon). In front of the temple is a large incense cauldron and we dutifully wafted the smoke towards ourselves to bestow good health.
The surrounding shops sold a large variety of hats, handbags, food, paper and other trinkets, so we engaged in an hour or so of shopping and staggered home through rush hour laden with numerous bags.
We have all enjoyed practising some basic Japanese today, and are quite good at bowing politely and smiling when all else fails. Our numerous Guiding skills have been put in use throughout the day as we have dealt with trials of navigation, first aid and emergency repairs.
Many other conference delegates have been arriving this evening, and people have been catching up with old friends and making new ones.
Jumata!
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