Asia 2005 Journal Day Four

Asia 2005 Journey Day Four
Tokyo, Japan

May 07, 2005. After a misty morning, the skies turned bright blue for exploring Tokyo
The city has a very conservative style in dress and architecture. Most buildings are
not dramatic and tend to follow the basic international box style. Apartments are
abundant due to the high density living. To quote one guide: Tokyo tends to be
a "vast, crowded, hyper-modern jungle of humanity".
Due to the ever changing weather, people have umbrellas as part of their ensemble.
Most hotels and general buildings have "stalls" to lock up umbrellas at an entry. Courtesy
and much staffing is the rule in most restaurants and public locations. Very rarely does
one see a driver not using a turn signal.
Cost of living is significantly high and looks and feels like New York City. Whereas the
city of New York has one main Times Square, Tokyo has an endless amount of streets
and intersections with beyond human scale neon signs and lights. Their dedication
to cleanliness is well respected and appreciated.
Very little of the historic side remains. Only pockets of gardens and temples can be
accessed. The original Imperial Palace has restricted access. Most of the city is a rebuilt
metropolitan area of post War construction. It is a city well structured and well
represented in any material wants or needs.