Tokyo September, 2004 |
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We arrive... then check bags at the train station (they still have lockers over there).
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First order of business: cheap, tasty sushi.
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Then, toys.
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We see lots of great stuff, including
a huge Nyanko Burger plush.
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Punkers like Toy Story, too!
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To stay awake, we needed to eat again (skewers)!
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Then: a turn through the stalls, after which we head to the hotel.
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There is a pachinko parlor right near us... people in it, day and night. Er... person?
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Lots going in and around the Shibyua Station
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Even the alleyways make me smile!
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Justin prepares his feet for TGS, while AM commuters rush to work.
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Breakfast at the Cerulean is delicious and calming after the hustle of the street.
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Post show, at the Prince hotel bar, Justin says he feels like a chicken salesman.
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We all feel a bit exhausted.
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After a quick stop at the IGDA gathering, we hop on the train!
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Dinner is delicious and the conversation is great. We laugh (and drink) a lot.
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Justin
fearlessly translates for me AND snaps some portraits! Multitalented!
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We
run into Jane - I ask them to "act casual" for some photos.
Doug acts, Jane giggles!!
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Shop windows and signs in the neighborhood where we ate post show, day 2. Interesting!
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So was the nouveau cafe we bailed on after (yet more) skewers. $15 for an espresso!!
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The next day: fashion deathmarch. After two days of TGS, it really hurt!
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People offer dog adoptions - just outside another toy store! Good marketing plan!
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The gutters remind me of Mushroom Kingdom characters.
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Doesn't the K guy look like he's got a boner?
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Weather was hot and rainy - slippery (fell and hit my tailbone - ouch!!)
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Anti-smoking messaging - very very grim.
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Street art was inspiring... tagging, creative.
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A sock-component store. I bought some "ankles" to wear as bracelets.
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Buy LV at the drug store, clean your own public toilet, rock out on the corner - your choice.
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Shibyua kidz, hanging out late.
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... still hangin.
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Tiny tie-dye showcase at Tokyu Hands!
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Children's programming: interesting, kinda scary. No matter what the country of origin.
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Bathroom technology at our hotel. The giant tub included faucet that turned flush to the wall (so you don't bump into it!) creating a nice handle in the process. Other amenities included a full stand-up shower with traditional shower stoop and bucket located just next to the bath, with a mirror so you can shave (or examine your ramen-filled pot belly!). The room's ventilation grates whispered softly as the trains passed through the station. It was a great sound to fall asleep to.
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Sabine was peeved when I got home - but new friends seemed to make up for my absence.
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