Exploring the World One Day at a Time

Exploring Around Nagoya Station

2011-01-19T13:19:00.000-10:00

Nagoya. Japan

It was a cold winter day in Nagoya and I didn't want to be walking around outside too much, so I had the hotel van take me to Nagoya Station. There is always so much to see and do especially if it's a major train station in Japan. Most of the stations in Japan have at least a department store and lots of shops where you can wander and browse around in. And with all of the countless restaurants, bakeries, and cafes, it's easy to pass the time away!

As the van was pulling up at the drop off point in front of Nagoya Station, I noticed an interesting spiral steel sculpture. I decided not to go into the station yet and to brave the cold and explore around the streets. This steel sculpture sits in the middle of the street and is like a roundabout for cars.

I looked around and up and noticed another spiral but this time it was a tall glass building a couple of blocks away.

It looks like it could be an observation or commercial tower of some sort. But it's actually a trio of vocational schools all in one building. It's called the Mode Gakuen Spiral Towers and it's an eco friendly building that was completed in 2008. The 36 floor building stands about 170 meters (560) feet.

The three words on the tower represent each vocational school. Mode for fashion, beauty, and design. HAL for game, animation, web, and IT fields. Isen stands for the medical fields.

The spirals respresent the enthusiasm of the three schools that intertwine, rise, and eventually soaring into the real world.

It's really a stunning building that is a landmark for Nagoya.

Time to head back to Nagoya Station, and it's early morning pedestrian rush hour!

Passing by hotels and the Meitetsu Department store. Meitetsu is also a transportation company with bus and train lines. Along with JR train station there are Kintentsu, Aonami and a local subway station.

Nagoya Midland Square with reflection of JR Central towers of Nagoya Station.

Nagoya Midland Square is headquarters for Toyota. At the top of there is an observatory where you can get a birds eye view of Nagoya.

Looking towards Nagoya Station with JR Central Towers. It is the headquarters of Central Railways Japan as well as office spaces along with the Takashiyama Department store and the the Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel. It's an assymetrical building, the narrower tower is the hotel and the wider tower houses office space.

Inside Nagoya Station.

With so many people, it would be hard find anyone. This clock is the perfect meeting point.

I took the elevators or "Sky Shuttle" up to "Sky Street on the 15th floor". Those elevators were really fast and state of the art! From here there are views of the city.

A view of Mode Gakuen Towers.

Train tracks that lead to Tokyo, Osaka, and beyond.

Looking down into the street below.

In the distance, a view of Nagoya Castle. Time to call it a day and have lunch!

Mt. Fuji from the Air

2011-01-18T12:43:00.000-10:00

Everytime I fly to Nagoya from Hawaii, just before landing, there is a view of Mt. Fuji from the air. If it is during the winter, Mt. Fuji will be snow capped. In the foreground you can see the Fuji five lakes.

Sawara, a town known as Little Edo

2011-01-14T11:49:00.000-10:00

On a brisk winter day in January, I decided to venture into the town of Sawara in Katori City. It's in the Chiba prefecture about 30 minutes northeast by train from the town of Narita. I had heard about it from a friend and couldn't wait until summer or fall when it's probably the best time to visit to see the Sawara Grand Festival (Sawara Matsuri) during mid July and October.

The attraction here are the well preserved buildings along the edge of the Ono-gawa and Tone-gawa rivers. These buildings date back during the Edo period in the 1800's when Sawara was a prosperous trading post and used the canals for transporting rice, sake, and soy sauce to and from Edo. The Japanese nickname of Sawara is "koedo" or "Little Edo".

Some bare willow trees line the banks of the Onogawa river during the winter months.

Lamp post with metal work that depicts the annual float festivals of Sawara.

The Edo style period buildings are still standing and are now used as souvenir and gift shops, restaurants.

It was early morning and not many people were walking around. The boats were empty too. Although I did see a small television or movie production crew here. It's the perfect backdrop for filming Edo period scenes.

The famous Ja Ja Waterfall Bridge. It sprouts water every 30 minutes.

I liked this particular row of buildings. I like the signage and the windows of the building on the far right.

Notice the window with the three fold doors. It was a way to prevent fires.

A cute little desert shops that sell manju, dango, mochi, and soft cream.

In celebration of New Year's, the Japanese place kadomatsu on their front doors.

The Mitsubishi-kan building.

Love this wooden building with the souvenir shop.

It's a perfect time to avoid the crowds and see the buildings but I'll have to come back again in the summer and fall to experience the the festivals and the lively atmosphere of Sawara.

2010 Tokyo Midtown Christmas Light Show, Roppongi

2010-12-26T23:30:00.002-10:00

Tokyo, Japan

One of the more impressive Christmas illuminations to see in Tokyo is the light show at Tokyo Midtown called "Starlight Garden". It features a sea of 700,000 blue LED lights,

The Champs Elysees display which resemble champagne flutes.

A view of Tokyo Tower from Tokyo Midtown.

Besides the lights and music, there was smoke effects!

The light effects were amazing! Looks like shooting stars that glided around the lighted trees.

Back inside the mall of Tokyo Midtown, saw this huge Santa Tree. It's full of miniature santa ornaments.

2010 Christmas Winter Illuminations Keyakizaka Dori, Roppongi Hills

2010-12-26T22:39:00.030-10:00

Tokyo, Japan

During Christmas in Tokyo, there are quite a few places to see Christmas illuminations. In Roppongi Hills near the Mori Tower skyscraper, christmas lights light up along Keyakizaka Dori.

Tokyo Tower is visible from Keyakizaka Dori.

Kodaiji Temple, Kyoto

2010-12-10T21:38:00.160-10:00

Kyoto, Japan

A beautiful temple to visit is Kodaiji Temple near the Higashiyama mountains in Eastern Kyoto. It is known for its outstanding architecture, landscape gardens, tea houses, and bamboo grove. Kodaiji is a Zen temple that belongs to the Rinzai sect of buddhism. Built in 1606 by Kita-no-Mandoro, also known as Nene, the temple was built to honor her late late husband Toyotomi Hideyoshi. He was known for helping to complete the reunification of Japan during the Momoyama period in 1591. They are both enshrined at this temple.

Near the entrance is a building named Kuri which is the living quarters of the priests.

Tea ceremonies became popular during the reign of Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the late 16th century. The Iho-an tea hut (Cottage of Lingering Fragrance) is one of a few famous tea houses at Kodaiji Temple. Notice its unique round window.

Kangetsudai Pavillion also known as Moon Viewing Pavillion near the pond.

The zen rock garden overlooking Ryozen temple.

Kangetsudai Pavillion along with Kaisando (Founders Hall). They are registered as Important Cultural Assets of Japan.

Kodaiji's Tsukiyama garden with Kaisando Hall on the left.

Autumn reflection of Garyochi pond.

During spring, summer, and autumn, illumination viewing can be seen during the evening around the temple and bamboo grove.

Ryozen Kannon Temple, Kyoto

2010-12-10T20:13:00.045-10:00

Kyoto, Japan

Ryozen Kannon is a temple that honors the fallen Japanese as well as the foreign national soldiers who died in World War II. Located in Kyoto not too far from Kiyomizudera Temple, one cannot miss the large 24 meter (80 feet) concrete boddhisattva of mercy jutting out against the backdrop of the Higashiyama Mountains. Named Boddhisattva Avalokitesvara, it was built in 1955 by Hirosuke Ishikawa. Visitors can climb inside the statue to view Buddhist statues.

Upon walking around the grounds, I discovered a bamboo grove that connects to Kodaiji Temple, the next temple to visit.

I love the combination of colors between the maple trees and bamboos.

Beautiful Autumn Day at Kiyomizudera Temple, Kyoto

2010-12-10T01:30:00.426-10:00

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is one of my favorite Japanese cities. I think because it is a city that looks and feels most like traditional Japan. All across the city, there are dozens of temples and shrines with beautiful and peaceful gardens that vary with each passing season. The spring cherry blossoms and autumn fall foliage are my favorite times to visit.

On a late autumn day in December, I headed to Kyoto from Osaka. It took me half an hour to get to Kyoto Station from the JR Osaka station. From there, it is just a short bus ride to the temple.

Kiyomizudera Temple is one of the most famous temples in Kyoto and is on the UNESCO World Heritage list as an important historic cultural monument. Kiyomizu means "pure or clear water" and originated in the year 778 when a monk named Enchin enshrined a kannon near a mountain overlooking Otawa Falls.

At the entrance of Kiyomizudera is Niomon or Deva King Gate. The statues here are supposed to ward off evil from entering the temple.

I left really early that day and tried to get a headstart so I can beat the crowds but there was already a school class taking a group photo in front of the temple.

Near the entrance is a dragon fountain where people wash their hands and drink the water to purify themselves before entering the temple.

Worshippers rub this buddhist statue for spiritual healing or good luck.

The main attraction of Kiyomizudera Temple is the "hondo" or main hall and was built in 1633. It is an example of kake-zukuri or overhang architecture that are built over cliffs or mountains. Ancient Japanese believed that Shinto Gods or Buddhas live near these areas. The 45 feet high (12 meters) veranda or "stage" is supported by tall wooden pillars and crossbeams that was built without using any nails. A popular Japanese idiom is that if you jump off this "stage" your wish will be granted.

No nails were used to construct this temple.

The temple has magnificent views of the city. On the left is Kyoto Tower.

Some of the leaves had started to fall but the trees were still so gorgeous to look at.

Stairs that lead to the base of the temple and to Otowa Waterfall.

The changing seasons offers a beautiful backdrop against the temple especially during the fall and spring for the cherry blossoms.

Otawa-no-taki is the waterfall with three streams of water where it is believed to have healing and wish granting properties.

This area of maple trees were of the the most brilliant reds and oranges I saw that day.

Stone images along the pathway.

The pond is beautiful in the autumn as well as during spring when cherry blossoms bloom here.

Tucked away in Kiyomizu Temple is Jishu Jinja. The torii gates mark the entrance here. It is a popular shrine for help in finding love.

The shrine is dedicated to Okuninushi-no-mikoto who is the god of love and good matches. The rabbit beside him is the messenger of the god.

Some young ladies purchasing amulets and hoping to one day find love and marriage. If you don't want to purchase anything you can try your luck of closing your eyes and attempting to walk between two stones set about 18 meters apart. If you successfully reach the other stone, it is said you will find true love.

Back in the main hall of Kiyomizudera, it got really crowded later in the morning with so many students and tourists. Everyone was enjoying the temple and the views of Kiyomizudera Temple.

After leaving the temple, there is a shopping street where you can find lots of souvenirs and sweets... and more students and tourists making their way up the slope to Kiyomizudera.

One of the omiyage (souvenir) shops with this cute display doll bowing her head ever so gracefully over and over again.

MInneapolis, Guthrie Theater

2010-10-26T09:59:00.560-10:00

Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA

Worthy of a visit on the riverfront next to the Mill City Museum is Guthrie Theater. It is a Tony award-winning center for theater performance, education, production, and training. The striking building was designed by Pritzker-award winning architect Jean Novel.

The piece jutting out of the building is the cantilevered lobby, otherwise known as the Endless Bridge. It is an observatory that offers views of the Mississippi River, St. Anthony Falls, and Stone Arch Bridge.

From the Guthrie Theater observatory are views overlooking Mill City Museum and Mill Ruins Park.

Stone Arch Bridge

The desgin of the building was influenced by the size and scale of its neighboring historic buildings.

On the building are photographs of influential playwrights. Do you recognize some of them? From left to right, George Bernard Shaw, Tennesee Williams, and Anton Chekhov.

Facing streetside near the entrance of the building is a photograph of Guthrie Theater founder Sir Tyrone Guthrie.

Jean Novel, the architect searched for more than a year for the perfect color of the building to convey the mystery of theater. He finally settled on midnight blue.

Inside Guthrie Theater is Target Lounge where you can have a drink pre-show or during intermission. If you look closely you can see holograms of actors on the walls and even outside of the building.

The windows of the theater have mirrors on the side that reflects and creates an optical illusion of the outside view.

Dowling Studio on the ninth floor is an observatory as well as a flexible black-box theater. The architect chose amber tinted windows that give people looking out of the windows a sunny and cheerful feeling even on cold winter days in Minneapolis.

A view of the downtown Minneapolis skyline.

Views of the the riverfront.

Minneapolis Mill City Museum, Mill Ruins Park

2010-10-26T09:59:00.431-10:00

Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA

I was a bit surprised to hear that there were some ruins in Minneapolis. I often think of ancient ruins in Rome, Machu Picchu in Peru, or temple ruins in Angkor Wat, Camobodia. Ok, it's actually not that ancient in Minneapolis but as I soon found out-- it's actually ruins from the milling industry that were built in the 1800's.

Along the west bank of the Mississippi River in downtown Minneapolis lies Mill Ruins Park. This historic area was once a booming sawmilling and flour milling industry. Between the years of 1880 to 1930, Minneapolis was called the "flour milling capital of the world."

The excavations from the 1990's exposed old mills and water power features that is part of the revitalization of the historic mills district. Mill Ruins Park was created for educational, sightseeing, and recreational purposes.

St. Anthony Falls played a pivotal role to the development of the city of Minneapolis. It provided an important source of water power to the lumber and flour mills.

Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam

St. Anthony Falls is the only waterfall on the Mississippi River.

Across the river to the east banks is the old Pillsbury A Mill.

The Stone Arch Bridge was a railroad brige that was built in 1882-1883. It is made of granite and limestone and consists of 23 arches.

Today, Stone Arch Bridge is a great place for walking, jogging, and taking in the spectacular views of St. Anthony Falls and the Mississippi River.

The St. Anthony Heritage Trail is a self-guided hiking trail that takes you along the historic areas on the riverfront, Nicollet Island, Hennepin Avenue, and Stone Arch Bridge.

Fall foliage leaves in late October. I love the colors since I never get to see them in Hawaii.

Mill City Museum along the Minneapolis riverfront is built into the ruins of the Washburn A Mill. Washburn A Mill in the year 1880 was at one time the largest flour mill in the world. Most of us are familiar with the most recent name which is General Mills.

The surrounding area of the historic flour mill and museum has been redeveloped into an office building and residential complex. Mill City Museum focuses on the history of Minneapolis and the flour milling industry.

The famous Gold Medal Flour sign.

The modern glass facade blends into the ruins.

The entrance into the courtyard of the Mill City Museum.

The building was nearly destroyed by fire in 1991. The museum was opened in 2003.

The decline of flour milling after World War I led General Mills to concentrate on cereals and cake mixes. In one of the museum exhibition is a large 15 feet Bisquick mix box done by muralist Kim Lawler.

The many faces of Betty Crocker over the years. She has become a brand icon that General Mills came up with in 1936 in a response to answer consumer product questons. In the U.S., Betty Crocker is synonomous with baking.

On the ninth floor of the museum is the observatory where there are sweeping panoramic views of St. Anthony Fall, Stone Arch Bridge, and the Mississippi River.

Looking down into the courtyard.

Detroit Metropolitan Airport, Light Tunnel

2010-10-18T15:09:00.068-10:00

Detroit, Michigan, USA

Spending so much time at airports, I sometimes have to find ways to entertain myself. At Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) in Michigan, there is a Light Tunnel at the Edward H. McNamara Terminal. This psychedelic tunnel connects Concourse A to Concourses B and C. It is one of the more unique experiences at an airport.

The Light Tunnel has two moving walkways that extend to both sides of the terminals.

The walls are made of sculpted glass panels.

The light show is accompanied by an original music score composed by Victor Alexeeff that last about half an hour.

LED lighting is used in this colorful tunnel.

Cleveland, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum

2010-10-10T13:55:00.001-10:00

Cleveland, Ohio, USA

I had a few days in Detroit so my friends and I rented a car and drove 2.5 hours to Cleveland to visit the Rock and Rock Hall of Fame Museum.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum is dedicated to archiving the most influential people in the music industry. Some exhibitions include Beatles, Elvis Presley, and U2.

There was a special exhibtion on Bruce Springstein. Greeting from Asbury Park is his first album so there was a quite a few references about his New Jersey hometown.

The building has seven levels and was designed by architect I.M. Pei who also designed the Louvre's pyramid.

...

Trabant cars from U2's Zoo TV tour hang in the lobby of the museum. Trabant cars were from communist East Germany.

The museum is located on the shores of Lake Erie.

View from museum balcony overlooking Lake Erie.

Johny Cash's tour bus stands in front of the Rock and Roll Hame of Fame Museum. The bus was called the JC Unit One and he toured in it during the last two decades of his career.

Skyline view of Cleveland from the Museum

Cleveland Browns football stadium.

The Cleveland Cliffs was a ship that once hauled ore around the Great Lakes. It's now a floating museum.

Morning Walk to Osaka Castle

2010-10-08T21:39:00.002-10:00

Osaka, Japan

On a layover in Osaka, a few of us decided to get up early in the morning for an exercise walk to the Osaka Castle. We met around 5:30 a.m. in the morning. Normally I would balk at waking up so early but the time zone change would make it about 10:30 a.m. in Hawaii.

One of the best things about waking up early is that you get to see the sunrise.

Some city views along the way to Osaka Castle.

After a couple of hours of walking we arrived at the castle moat.

The old and the new.

Outer castle grounds.

Osaka Castle began construction in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi who modeled the castle after the Azuchi Castle near Lake Biwa.

The castle has been rebuilt numerous times due to the ravages of war, natural disasters, and fire.

The exterior of Osaka Castle is decorated with gold tigers and dolphins.

Our last glimpse of the castle as we exited Sakura-mon gate.

We walked to Namba area which is the main shopping and entertainment district in Osaka.

Namba area is a main tourist attraction.

Dotonbori is a famous for the many restaurants along this canal. We had lunch here after walking for more than five hours. We were so stuffed and tired from lunch so we took the train back to our hotel. It was a fun day!

Osaka, Umeda Sky building

2010-10-08T16:06:00.002-10:00

Osaka, Japan

Umeda Sky Building

I haven't been to this part of the city (Umeda) for a long time. Our hotels have changed a few times around Osaka and Kobe. Now we're back in Umeda. Umeda is in the Kita-Ku prefecture and is the business and commercial hub of Osaka. Centered around Umeda Station and the countless network of railways and underground shopping, one could easily get lost here. I have to reacquaint myself to this area again.

One of the most recognizable landmarks is the Umeda Sky Building. You can't miss this glass arched shaped building. It consists of two 40- story skyscrapers that is connected at the top with a rooftop observatory.

I'm not sure why the observatory is called Floating Sky Garden, there's no garden at the top but there is a 360 degree panoramic view of Osaka.

The Umdea sky building stands at 173 meters and is the 7th tallest building is Osaka.

Those are two mid air escalators that takes you and down to the rooftop observatory.

Imagine riding up an escalator in midair? This is supposedly the highest escalator in the world!

Halloween in Japan?

The view at the top.

Downtown Osaka nightview

The large building in the center is the Yodobashi Camera Building, a chain of discount electronics and camera shop.

A day time view of Umeda Sky Building from my hotel room.

Famous San Francisco Neighborhoods

2010-09-27T11:36:00.411-10:00

San Francisco, California, USA

Alamo Square is a small park in a residential neighborhood that is bordered by famous Victorian style homes. The opening segment of the television show Full House from the late 1980's to mid 1990's was filmed here.

This particular row of homes bordered on Steiner, Grove, and Hayes streets are called the "Painted Ladies" for their Victorian Style architecture and use of various painted colors.

Look how steep these homes are further down on Steiner street!

The view from the bottom: Lombard is famous for being the most crooked street in San Francisco. On Russian Hill next to the Hyde Powell cable car stop, it has eight hairpin turns and the speed limit is 5 miles per hour.

View from top of Lombard Street. Coit Tower on far right.

In the Marina district of San Francisco is the Palace of Fine Arts. It was originally built for the Panama-Pacific Exposition in 1915 to exhibit works of art. The Expo was to celebrate the completion of the Panama Canal and to celebrate the rebirth of San Francisco after the disastruous 1906 earthquake.

The Palace was designed by Bernard Maybeck who was inspred by Roman and Greek architecture. During the expo, the citizens loved the building so much that it was saved from demolition after the expo.

These columned walkways lead to the domed rotunda in the center. An artificial lagoon was constructed to reflect the building and provide a scenic vista which can be admired from a distance.

Today, the Palace of Fine Arts is a favorite location for holding weddings and photography. There is a theater and Expoloratium adjacent to the building. Interestingly, you can also find a replica of this building at Disney's California Adventure in Anaheim.

A few minutes walk from the Palace of Fine Arts is Crissy Field, a park and recreation area with views of Golden Gate Bridge. Crissy Field used to be an airfield for the U.S. Army.

The Golden Gate Bridge is considered one of the most beautiful bridges in the world.

I'm back at Fisherman's Wharf to get some seafood and a bowl of chowder!

The Fisherman's Grotto recently celebrated their 75th Anniversary. Opened in 1935 by a sicilian immigrant, it is said to be the first sit down restaurant at Fisherman's Wharf.

Boudin Bakery is famous for their sourdough bread.

The merry-go-round at Pier 39 Fisherman's Wharf, a fun place for tourists.

Pier 39 sailboats

The San Francisco Ferry Building on the Embarcadero is a terminal for ferries and a gourmet marketplace.

The clock tower is modeled after the Giralda Bell Tower in Seville, Spain.

Shops and restaurants line the remodeled hall inside the historic ferry building.

There are fery services to Sausalito, Tiburon, and various East Bay neighborhoods from the ferry building.

The Raygun Gothic Rocketship is a temporary public art exhibit next to the ferry building. The 40 foot work of art offers a retro-futuristic visiono space travel from 1930's to 1940's

science fiction.

The Oakland Bay Bridge links San Francisco to Oakland. The bridge opened just six months before the Golden Gate Bridge in November 1936.

The bow and arrow sculpture called "Cupid's Span" on the Embarcadero in Rincon Park symbolizes where Tony Bennett "left his heart".

The peace pagoda in Japantown was a gift from sister city Osaka, Japan.

San Francisco's Japantown is the oldest of the three remaining Japantowns in the United States. The other cities are in San Jose and Los Angeles, California.

On my way home. The view of San Francisco from the airplane.

If you look closely, the pointed building is the Transamerica Building. And that's the Oakland Bay Bridge on the right.

Views of the Golden Gate Bridge and surrounding neighborhoods from the airplane.

San Francisco Golden Gate Park, De Young Museum

2010-09-25T11:36:00.004-10:00

San Francisco, California, USA

One of my favorite places to visit when I'm in San Francisco is Golden Gate Park. The world class museums and beautiful gardens are the reasons I enjoy it so much.

Dahlias are one of my favorite flowers. I love the colors and how round and symmetrical each petal is shaped. At the Conservatory of Flowers, there is a large Dahlia Garden.

It was a sunny and beautiful day, but it was too bright for taking close up photos of the flowers.

Here's some of last year's photos where the sunlight was perfect.

Conservatory of Flowers is a greenhouse and botanical garden that houses rare and tropical plants.

The wooden and glass structure is a Victorian style greenhouse that was purchased from the richest man in Californa back in 1876.

The de Young Museum is a fine arts museum with exhibitions from America, Africa, and Pacific. The museum opened in 1895 and was named after a San Francisco newspaperman. It has been rebuilt a few times after the 1906 and 1989 earthquakes. This new building was completed in 2005.

The museum exterior is made of copper and eventually it will oxidize and turn green to blend in with the natural settings of the trees.

The Museum Cafe

Panoramic views of San Francisco from de Young Museum observatory.

Towards Golden Gate Bridge

View of downtown San Francisco.

California Academy of Sciences is the only museum with a planetarium, natural history museum, and aquarium. The building was completely rebuilt in 2008 and received top accolades for its environmentally friendly design.

Can you see the Golden Gate Bridge?

Wire Sculptures by Ruth Asawa. I like the shadows thats the sculptures project onto the walls.

Yokohama Landmark Tower, Minato Mirai 21 Area

2010-08-20T23:45:00.001-10:00

Yokohama, Japan

Built on reclaimed land, Minato Mirai means "harbor future". Some of the main attractions of the Minato Mirai 21 area consists of the Landmark Tower, Yokohama Cosmoworld (amusement park, ferris wheel), Pacifico Yokohama (convention center), and Queen's Square.

The Cosmo Clock 21 ferris wheel has a large digital clock. The ferris wheel holds 60 cabins and takes 15 minutes to fully rotate once.

The Nippon-Maru, a celebrated training ship is permanently anchored here.

Metal sculpture at Queen's Square: Moku-Moku Waku-Waku Yokohama Yoyo by Hisayuki Mogami .

Yokohama Landmark Tower is the tallest building in Japan. It stands at 296 meters. The building is occupied by a 5-star Royal Park Hotel on the 49th-70th floors. The observation deck

is on the 69th floor Sky Garden.

The Landmark Tower has gorgeous panoramic views of Yokohama Port and the surrounding city.

Facing Southeast.

Yokohama Stadium, primarily used for baseball, the most popular sport in Japan.

The port and Yamashita Park in the center.

CosmoWorld and Red Bricks Warehouse.

The convention center Pacifico Yokohama and the sail shaped building is the Yokohama Intercontinental Hotel.

Yokohama International Passenger Terminal (Osanbashi Pier) and the Red Bricks Warehouse, Aka Renga Park

Facing Northwest in the direction of Yokohama Station on far left.

If you look closely, you can see the skyscrapers in Shinjuku, Tokyo in the distance.

A twilight view.

A night view.

Yokohama, Osanbashi Pier

2010-08-20T23:15:00.001-10:00

Yokohama, Japan

One of my favorites places to take a stroll in Yokohama is the Osanbashi Pier. The cool ocean breezes and the harbor view makes it a perfect place to relax.

On my way to Osanbashi Pier

A sidewalk tile:, The port was open to foreign trade in 1859.

Osanbashi means "big pier" in Japanese. Built in 1894 and rebuilt a few times after, the latest in 2002. The pier's design mimics rolling ocean waves.

Osanbashi Pier is also known as Yokohama International Passenger Terminal. This is where cruise ships depart and arrive on the lower floors. Amazingly, the design of this pier has no stairs!

Another interesting feature is that the wooden floors of the pier was made to look like you're on a ship deck.

The wooden floor is called Ipe wood from the Amazon forests of Brazil. It was selected for its strength and durability as well for its specific gravity greater than that of water.

View of Yokohama Bay Bridge from Osanbashi Pier.

Looking back towards land.

Yokohama Landmark Tower is seen on the left. The curved shaped building is the Yokohama Grand Intercontinental Hotel.

The Yokohama Marine Tower is on the left.

Aka Renga Park and Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is seen across the pier.

The "queen" tower as it is affectionately called is the customs building.

The Kanagawa Government Prefecture Building otherwise known as "king" tower.

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse was converted into a shopping and restaurant building. These buildings used to be old warehouses built between 1911-1913.

Yokohama Chinatown

2010-08-20T22:23:00.193-10:00

Yokohama, Japan

From the richly colored temples and gates, the hundreds of restaurants to delight tastebuds, and the sounds of touters beckoning customers into their shops, Yokohama Chinatown is a feast for the senses! One could easily spend a whole day exploring the area shopping for souvenirs and sampling the many delicacies offered.

As you walk around Chinatown, you can't miss these gates. There are ten of these strategically located "pairo" gates and they are placed around Chinatown according to Feng Shui principles. Four of the main gates (East, South, West, North) are distinctly color coded and each has a sacred animal as guardian deities to protect the town. This is Choyo-mon or East gate, with the dragons and azure blue colors.

Shisei is one of hundreds of souvenir shops around Yokohama Chinatown.

The Japanese love their pandas.

Hello Kitty as a panda.

Hello Kitty, chinese character on chest means Luck, Prosperity, Happiness.

Heading towards Daska.

Yokohama Dai Sekai otherwise known as Daska (China Museum) is a multilevel restaurant, shopping, and entertainment building.

Famous Champion shop that specializes in steamed chinese pork buns (nikuman).

Shark fin soup restaurant.

Fortune telling and palm reading are available too.

A man roasting chestnuts.

This is the narrowest Chinese restaurant I've ever seen.

Ichiba-dori mon gate

Zenrinmon Gate is the Goodwill Gate. "Zenrin" means friendship between neighboring families and countries.

Sampuru (sample) menu on display.

Can't miss this brightly painted corner restaurant! It's famous for the Diao Xiao Mein or fresh knife cut noodles.

The Kanteibyo Temple (Kuan Ti Miao) is the temple of prosperity and the God of Business is enshrined here.

The Mazu Miao is a temple dedicated to the goddesss of the sea. She is said to protect ships from natural disasters and sickness. It's a very colorful and ornate temple.

Yokohama, Yamashita Park, Yokohama Marine Tower, Yokohama Doll Museum

2010-08-20T20:03:00.004-10:00

Yokohama, Japan

Yokohama is the second largest city in Japan and lies just south of Tokyo in the Kanagawa prefecture. Once a small fishing village near Tokyo Bay, Yokohama became an international port city overflowing with foreigners when Commodore Matthew Perry demanded that Japanese ports be opened to foreign trade in 1854. The Port of Yokohama opened in 1859 and subsequently silk was one of the main commodities being traded. Many Chinese traders arrived from Canton, Hong Kong, and Shanghai and settled down near the port to do business. Today, Yokohama has the largest chinatown in Japan.

From Tokyo Station on the JR Tokaido line, it takes just half an hour to reach Yokohama.

From Yokohama Station, I had to transfer to the Yokohama Minatomirai Railway to get to the port and Chinatown area.

On my way to Yamashita Park, these tiles on the sidewalk illustrate some history of Yokohama.

Yamashita Park

Yamashita Park is a park facing Yokohama Harbor.

Yamashita Park has many monuments of international cultural exchange. The Guardian of Water statue was a gift donated to Yokohama from its sister city of San Diego, California.

These statues represents the friendship of the Girl Scouts of Japan and the United States Girl Scouts.

The port has great skyline views of Yokohama.

The M.S. Hikawa Maru was was built as a passenger liner in 1930. Before World War II, it took passengers between Yokohoma and Seattle as many as 248 times across the Pacific Ocean. It was also used by Jewish refugees escaping the Nazis via Japan. During the war, it served as a hospital ship, then after the war she was a repatriation ship. It is now permanently moored at this port and is one of the symbols of Yokohama.

This year in 2010, the Hikaru Maru celebrated its 80th year anniversary.

Some of the most notable passengers of the Hikawa Maru were Charlie Chaplin and Kano Jigoro (Judo founder).

The Hikaru Maru Boardwalk souvenir shop.

Sightseeing and dinner and crusie ships can be enjoyed from here.

There is even a Hawaiian themed night cruise!

Yokohama Marine Tower

The Yokohama Marine Tower is billed as the "tallest lighthouse in the world". Completed in 1961, it stands at 106 meters with an observation deck on the 30th floor. It was recently renovated in 2009 to commemorate Yokohama's 150th anniversary of the opening of the port.

The mosaic wall paintings at the entrance hall of Yokohama Marine Tower is called the "Past and Present of Yokohama" by artist Kiyoshi Yamashita. This "Present" mural is of the year 1961.

The "Past" mural with the Western and Japanese ships, Europeans and Chinese people.

A view of Yamashita Park and port area, facing north.

Yamashita Park

Northeast facing pier and Yokohama Bay Bridge

Yokohama Bay Bridge

Facing south in the Yamate and Bluffs area.

Facing west, Motomachi and Chinatown area.

Facing Northwest, Landmark Tower on the left.

Osanbashi Pier

Yokohama Doll Museum

A few steps away from Yokohama Marine Tower is the Yokohama Doll Museum. On display are approximately 3500 dolls from Japan and around the world.

I didn't have time to tour the museum but I did stop by the museum shop and admired some Blythe Dolls.

Blythe Dolls are collectibles that were first released in 1972 by Kenner in the United States. It was never popular back then but it was revived over ten years ago and now the Japanese company Takara produces them.

Hobbyists collect and customize their dolls and take photographs of them. I noticed Blythe Dolls from travel photographs on the internet taken from famous sightseeing spots around the world.

Edo-Tokyo Museum, Sky Tree Tower, Tokyo Tower

2010-08-16T15:50:00.497-10:00

Tokyo, Japan

On a rainy and overcast day in Tokyo, I decided it's the best time to visit a museum. I heard that that the Edo-Tokyo Museum is an excellent museum about Tokyo's history, culture, and lifestyle. I took the JR Yamanote Line, stopped at Akibahara station and transferred to the Sobu Line. Ryogoku Station is in the Sumida Ward. That is also where the famous Ryogoku Kokugikan (sumo wrestling stadium) is.

Just outside Ryogoku Station, I stumbled upon some statues of sumo wrestlers.

In front of Ryogoku Kokugikan are murals of sumo wrestlers. I didn't have have a chance to visit so I will have to come back next time when sumo wrestling is in season. Sumo tournaments are held six times a year in the months of January, March, May, July, September, and November.

Nearby the sumo stadium and Edo-Tokyo Museum is the Old Yasuda Garden. The pond is shaped like the Japanese characters "kokoro". The garden is designated as a Noted Place of Tokyo because of it's typical Japanese style garden during the Meiji era.

In the background of the garden you can see part of the sumo stadium with its green dome.

The Edo-Tokyo Museum looks like a very modern architecture. But in fact the design was inspired by an old Japanese style storehouse (kura).

The museum exhibitions cover a 400 year span on the history of Tokyo beginning with Edo when it was ruled by the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1603. Edo changed its name during the Meiji Period to Tokyo in the year 1868.

The entrance to the museum is a long covered escalator that takes you up to the 5th and 6th floor of the exhibitions.

A highlight of the museum are the many intricate miniature replicas of chonin (townspeople) depicting everyday life in Edo and Tokyo. Here, chonins surround the bustling area of Ryogoku Bridge around the 1830's.

A replica of the Nakamura-za Kabuki Theatre during the Edo period.

Kabuki is a form of traditional style theater that includes music, dance, and drama. The actors and actresses wear elaborate makeup and costumes.

The bold makeup (kumadori) of kabuki actors are brightly painted and uses symbolic colors and lines to show the character's personality, emotion, as well as class, age, and gender.

Tokyo Sky Tree Tower

The light rain had stopped when I stepped out of the museum. I stood outside trying to figure what I should see and do next. I could see the Tokyo Sky Tree tower in the distance and decided I should make a visit in that area. I asked a security guard how long of a walk to the Sky Tree and he said around thirty minutes. I knew I wouldn't get lost if I just followed the view of the tower.

Almost there! The walk to the tower was hot and humid but the sky cleared and turned nice and blue! This photo was taken from a street overpass bridge.

Finally made it! The Tokyo Sky Tree is still under construction and won't be completed until the end of 2011. The grand opening is in 2012. When completed it will be the tallest structure in Japan. It's a radio and televsion broadcasting tower that will give complete digital terrestrial broadcasting coverage. Currently, the Tokyo tower is no longer tall enough for that.

When the tower is completed, it will reach 634 meters. Right now it is at 408 meters.

There are already alot of tourists and curious bystanders going to the site watching and taking photos of the tower. Just across the street is an information center about the Tokyo Sky Tree.

The shops and restaurants around the surrounding area are capitalizing on it by selling souvenirs and placing mirrors outside their front door. It attracts people to the storefront. People peer into the mirror and take photos of themselves next to it.

People at the information center were asking where they can find this photo spot. It's a ten minute walk and is located at Jukenbashi and Asakusa dori.

Tokyo Tower

Since I couldn't get up to the Tokyo Sky Tree observatory yet, I thought why not visit the Tokyo Tower? I took the train and stopped at the nearest train station to Tokyo Tower. I got off at Akabanebashi Station, it's just a five minute walk from there.

Tokyo Tower was modeled after the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Built in 1958, it stands at 333 meters. The main sources of revenue is broadcasting and tourism.

There are two observatories at the Tokyo Tower. The main observatory is in the center with all the windows is at a height of 150 meters. The higher observatory at 250 meters can be reached at a higher admission price. I was just happy to go to the main observatory.

At the base of the observatory is a 4-story building called Foot Town which has an aquarium, wax museum, restaurants, and souvenir shops. On the roof deck is an amusement park.

The color of the tower is painted in orange and white. The paint has to meet air safety regulations and is painted every five years.

Facing south

Facing Southwest in the direction of Yokohama and Ebisu.

Facing West is Ebisu, Shibuya, and Roppongi Hills. On a clear day, Mt. Fuji can be seen in the distance.

Facing northwest, Roppongi Hills on left and Shinjuku in the distance.

Facing North in the direction of Imperial Palace and Diet Building

Facing North East. Tall building in the center is the Atago Green Hills. The Tokyo Sky Tree is in the distance.

Facing East, straight ahead is the Shiodome area.

Facing south is Odaiba and Rainbow Bridge in the distance. On the right is Shinagawa in distance.

Close up of Odaiba with Fuji TV Building.

Twilight view of the city.

Night view, facing south towards Shinagawa.

Tokyo Tower lights up at night from dusk till midnight. The lights are orange or white depending on the season.

Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Lake Ashi

2010-08-14T22:35:00.088-10:00

Mt. Fuji

It's climbing season for Mt. Fuji in the months of July and August. I took the easy way and booked a one day sightseeing tour of Mt. Fuji and Hakone through JTB Sunrise Tours in Tokyo instead. We met the tour group at Hamamatsucho Bus Terminal (Hamamatsucho Station) which is just three stops away from Tokyo Station on the JR Yamanote Line.

Our first stop was the Fuji Visitor Center which has a cafe, restaurant, and souvenir shop. Didn't get to spend much time here but if you do, there's a short movie about Mt. Fuji.

Our next stop was at Kawaguchiko 5th Station. This is the closest area you can get without having to climb Mt. Fuji. It's a starting point near the trails and a place for climbers to get last minute gear. There are a handful of souvenir shops and restaurants for those just sightseeing. In front of this building, everyone stopped and looked up at Mt. Fuji hoping to catch a glimpse of it without the cloud coverings.

The clouds were starting to clear so everyone started to cheer. The winter months are the best time to view Mt. Fuji at its clearest.

Getting ready for the climb up Mt. Fuji.

Instead of climbing, you can go horseback riding from around the 5th to 7th stations.

Near the entrance to the trail is an observation platform.

Slopes of Mt. Fuji

If you look closely, you can see a trail with climbers in the center.

A walk in the clouds! It was crowded with climbers and tourists that day.

Hello Kitty is everywhere in Japan! The elevation of Mt. Fuji is 3776 meters or an equivalent of 12,390 feet.

A functional souvenir for climbers. These plain wooden walking sticks can be stamped as you reach each station on Mt. Fuji.

Interesting to find a red torii gate squeezed in between these two buildings.

Hungry? These grilled snacks--squid, hot dog, corn, and fried noodles (yakisoba) were oishi!!

While on the bus on our way to Hakone, a view of Mt. Fuji.

Lake Ashi, Hakone

We made it to Hakone! Hakone is famous for its onsen (hot spring) resorts. We're heading to take a fifteen minute cruise in Lake Ashi.

Lake Ashi is actually a crater lake on the southwest wall of the caldera of Mt. Hakone.

Here is one of a few of the pirate boats that cruise around Lake Ashi.

The torii gate of Hakone Shrine.

It was a beautiful and scenic cruise. On clear days, Mt. Fuji can be seen in the distance. Not today though.

The emperor's summer home is here.

Our ship stopped here as we made our way to ride the Mt. Komagatake Ropeway.

Views from Mt. Komagatake Ropeway.

On the way down from Mt. Komagatake.

Our bus drove us from Hakone and dropped us off at Odawara Station. We took the shinkansen back to Tokyo Station. While standing on the platform, the train whizzed by so fast!! It took us only half an hour to get back.

After we arrived at Tokyo station, we decided to walk outside the surrounding area of Marunouchi before heading back to our hotel. Here is the Tokyo International Forum, an exhibition, convention, and art hall. Completed in 1996, the building design is shaped like a ship and was designed by Rafael Vinoly.

Just outside Tokyo Station is a night view of GranTokyo North and South Towers. They're both office buildings with shopping in underground or ground levels. The North tower is where Daimaru Department store is.

Ueno Park, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa, Ochanomizu

2010-08-01T16:01:00.366-10:00

Tokyo, Japan

Ueno Park

Ueno Park is famous for it's cherry blossom flowers in the spring. However in the summer months of July and August, the lotuses in Shinobazu Pond is a huge attraction as well.

To catch a glimpe of lotuses in full bloom, I had to wake up early and get to Ueno Park at least by 9:00 a.m. Otherwise, the lotuses will close their petals...they only bloom in the morning.

Bentendo Temple in the background.

During the winter and spring months, all of the leaves and lotuses will be gone. You will see just water, so it was amazing to see this pond full of lotus leaves and flowers when I got here.

A sharp contrast!! This was taken in late March of this year in the same spot as the photo above.. You can see some cherry blossom trees on the left.

Lotuses in full bloom.

This cat was sleeping when I approached him. He couldn't care less about all the ruckus going on at Shinobazu Pond. He went right back to sleep after I took a photo of him.

Ueno Park is huge. There are national museums, temples, shrines, and Ueno Zoo. Here is the pond where you can take a spin in these swan boats. It was a little too early that day.

Asakusa

Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa is one of the most sacred and visited temples in Japan.

Kamanarimon or Thunder Gate. This is the main entrance.

The second gate is Hozomon Gate and on the left is the five story pagoda.

Asakusa Jinja Shrine

Nakamise Dori is a fun place for souvenir shopping! You can't miss it , It leads you right to Sensoji Temple.

Fun and colorful kimonos for everyone!

Japanese hair ornaments.

Japanese senbei--rice crackers dipped in soy sauce.

The lucky cat brings good fortune.

Lots of omiyage or souvenirs to bring home!

These chopsticks resemble the bullet train (shinkansen).

If you do not want to walk, you can hire a rickshaw driver to take you around for a tour of Asakusa. They're everywhere!

The Tokyo Sky Tree will be the tallest tower in Japan when it is completed in 2012.

Asakusa dori.

Asakusa is close to Sumida River where you can take cruises up and down the river.

A train runs along Sumida River as well as a jetski.

Across the River is the Asahi Beer Hall called Flame d'Or. The second tower on the left is the Sky Tree Tower.

The Asahi Beer building was designed by French Architect Philippe Starck in 1989.

Kappabashi

Not very far from Asakusa is Kappabashi. This is a wholesale area for businesses to purchase supplies for their restaurants or food establishments. It's become a tourist attraction for the fake plastic food.

The art of sampuru. It's Japanese for sample. These fake plastic food can be found in windows and display cases at restaurants and cafes. The sushi looks so real!!

For your eyes only. Crepes!

They are all handmade and cost more than the real thing!

How about an ice cold beer?

Some katsu dishes

Tempura and udon.

Ochanomizu

Ochanomizu Station overlooking Akibahara (electric town) from Hijiribashi Bridge. I waited patiently for all three trains to intersect simultaneously.

The opposite side of Hijiribashi Bridge.

Crossed over to another bridge. Looking back to Hijiribashi Bridge.

This building's design was probably influenced by the St. Nicholas Cathedral nearby.

St. Nicholas Cathedral

Yashimaseido Temple

Odaiba

2010-07-28T23:09:00.186-10:00

Tokyo, Japan

Odaiba island was originally built as a cannon fortress to protect Edo in the 1850's (now known as Tokyo) from foreign sea attacks--particularly from Commodore Matthew Perry's black steel ships. In the late 1980's, there was a proposal for Odaiba to be a showcase for futuristic living . However, the Japanese bubble economy burst and in the 1990's a major redevelopment began for Odaiba to be a tourist and leisure area. Today, Odaiba is a major tourist attraction for shopping and entertainment in Tokyo.

A photoshoot at Odaiba Kaihin Koen Seaside Park.

Swimming is not allowed at this beach. The water is not the safest here. The colored bags on beach is to be lit up with candles in the evening.

If you can't swim here, maybe you can go camping in these tents.

Or take a waterbus up Tokyo Bay and Sumida River to Asakusa.

The view from Aqua City, a shopping and entertainment complex.

A replica of the statue of liberty came to Odaiba in 1998-1999 to commemorate the "French Year in Japan". It was so popular that a permanent statue was built in year 2000. This replica of the statue of liberty has become a famous symbol of this park.

I had a spectacular view of Rainbow Bridge while having lunch at a Garuva Korean Barbeque restaurant at Aqua City.

Another Hawaiian restaurant spotting in Japan! Kua Ainas is a famous hamburger joint in Hawaii known for their thick and juicy burgers. I decided to have Korean instead.

Decks is a mega shopping and entertainment complex next to AquaCity. More shopping, restaurants,cafes, and Joypolis (arcade games) and a Little Hong Kong. I didn't have a chance to visit. It will have to be next time!

Fuji Television Headquarters. The sphere shape is the observatory on the 25th floor. Costs 500 yen to get up there.

To get up to the observatory, this escalator takes you up to the 7th floor. From there an elevator takes you up to the 25th floor observatory.

From the 7th floor of Fuji TV building, you can see the Yurikamome train tracks. In the background is Aqua City and Decks.

Looking up, is the observatory.

The view from the top. The arched glass building is the Telecom Center. The building that looks like a ship is the Museum of Maritime Science.

Planes are constantly landing into Haneda Airport.

The huge ferris wheel with surrounding Palette Town and Venus Fort shopping mall.

View of Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo in the distance.

Close up of rooftop parking lots at Aqua City and Decks.

Back on the streets, the Yurikamome train tracks in front of Fuji TV Building.

The Flame of Freedom was donated to Japan from France to commemorate the French Year in Japan in 1998-1999. Installed in 2001, it was designed by Marc Coutelier who won through a design competition.

This modern glass building is the Telecom Center Building. It is a government run telecommunications hub with satellites that connect Tokyo to the rest of the world. There is an observation deck for visitors on top floor.

The logo: United States of Odaiba

A huge desert ice sculpture near Hotel Nikko. Perfect for a hot summer day!

More interesting architecture. This is Tokyo Big Sight also known as Tokyo Internationl Exhibition Center. It's one of the largest exhibition and convention centers in Japan. This building is the conference tower.

The entrance hall into Tokyo Big Sight.

In front of Toky Big Sight is a large sculpture of a saw.

Tokyo Big Sight from a distance.

Not far from Tokyo Big Sight is Palette Town which is where you can ride the Odaiba ferris wheel (Daikanransha). Stands at 115 meters or 377 feet tall, it was once the world's largest ferris wheel for a year between 1999-2000.

Offers views of Odaiba and Tokyo Bay.

Also at Palette Town is Mega Web. It is a showroom of Toyota latest cars, concept cars, and newest technology.

A Toyota IQ decorated Chinese style.

A Toyota Vitz decorated in Japanese style.

The Toyota E-com. It's an electric car that was first unveiled in 1997 at Toyota Motor Show. It was the precursur to the Toyota Prius. You can test drive this car!

The Toyota i-Swing is like a Segway on steroids. First debuted in 2005, this personal mobility vehicle can change to from 2 to 3 wheels depending on how fast you want to go. It uses artificial intelligence technology to learn the habits and preferences of the driver.

Is this the future of cars? The i-Unit first debuted at the World Expo in 2005 is a personal four-wheeled electric vehicle. The design is inspired by the leaf with its environmental theme.

In 2003, the very futuristic looking Toyota pm (personal mobility) is another electric car controlled by two joysticks.

Toyota Technology: The personal assistant robot playing a trumpet. Robot hands emulate human movements very well that they can help assist us in our daily lives.

The simulated blue skies and Roman style interior of Venus Fort mall reminds me of Caesar's Palace Forum shops in Las Vegas.

Back near Aqua City to view the sunset.

The dinner boats on Tokyo Bay pause for a sunset view of Rainbow Bridge. Very romantic!!! Sigh!!

I was waiting for a night view, it was worth it!

Rainbow Bridge, Odaiba

2010-07-28T23:08:00.091-10:00

Tokyo, Japan

Odaiba is a seaside resort for shopping and entertainment on Tokyo Bay. Odaiba is an artificial island that is linked with the Rainbow Bridge. There is a walkway on Rainbow bridge that takes approxiamtely 20 minutes to walk to the island. It's a very scenic and cool walk!

From the pier near Shibaura-Futo Station is the skyline of Odaiba.

On the walkway of the bridge looking back is a view of Tokyo and the Yurikamome train tracks.

I could feel the cars and trucks whizzing by....Lots of people jog here too!

The Yurikamome train is controlled entirely by computers, so there are no drivers on board. It connects Shimbashi through Odaiba and ends in Toyosu. It's a very scenic ride especially if you sit in the front of the train.

An area on the bridge where you can stop and admire the view.

Looking back is the first tower of the bridge.

The skyline of Odaiba and the foreground is a historical battery used during the Edo period of Japan.

Odaiba is also known for some interesting architecture. The buidling that has the globe is the headquarters for Fuji Television Network. On the right is Hotel Nikko Odaiba

At the foot of Rainbow Bridge is Odaiba Kaihin Koen (park).

A large ferris wheel I notice is a usual fixture at almost every major port area in Japan.\

Almost at the end of Rainbow Bridge, and now looking back, the Tokyo skyline and battery.

Looking back towards Odaiba is a close up of Fuji Television and to the right in the back is the Telecom Center. I kept seeing airplanes preparing to land in Haneda Airport to the right of photo. If you look closely you can see a small airplane near the globe of the building.

The Fuji Televesion building has an observatory where there is a panoramic view of Odaiba and Tokyo. The global part of building is the observatory. The smaller colorful building in the front near the beach is shopping and entertainment areas Decks and Aqua City as well as Odaiba Marine Park.

I switched to the opposide side of the bridge to get a view of the eastern side of Tokyo.

The skyline on the opposite side of Rainbow Bridge.

Tokyo Tower can be seen in the distance.

In the center of the photograph and still under construction is theTokyo Sky Tree. It will be the tallest building in Tokyo and slated to open in 2012. It's the narrow looking tower that looks like it has needles on it