The Setting Sun

23.08.16-24.08.16

Today was our last day in Tokyo. This meant that we needed to go on a major souvenir hunt! We went to a large shopping mall and bought, crackers, pens, notepads and many other gadgets. Although these may sound ordinary, the Japanese have used their creativity to alter them in a way that could have been never found in Europe. We found notepads in the shape of Mt. Fuji, a piano, drums and saxophones; and saw page markers in the shape of penguins and ducks.

Shinjuku by day

Gaming Halls found at every corner

Inside the Shopping mall

Half way through the day we were finished with our shopping and had a bit of free time before our final dinner. Next to our hotel, Mario found a gaming hall for darts, pool and bowling.  When we went in we saw that there were also some private rooms to rent for an hour, which included darts and karaoke.  Of course I got very excited to sing and we went in for a family “adventure”. First my parents sang “Help!” from the Beatles, then I sang a few “Les Miserables” songs and we ended our session with “The lion sleeps tonight” and a couple of Shreck songs. My mother and I saw the highpoint of our performance while singing “I’m a believer”. With that, I can certify that the Japanese have the largest karaoke repertoire I have ever seen.

Before I forget: This happened also. I wanted to buy a Yukata to wear at home and a professional started dressing me. I was told how to wear the item traditionally. The middle ribbon on the Yukata is called Obi and is supposed to clash with the colours on one side and fit to them on the other (Usually they come in two colours). This way, both colours can be seen through the knot on the back. 

In the evening, we met up with our Friend Takao for the last time and went for dinner. The Restaurant was set in an old Sumo arena. In the middle we could see the circle where the wrestlers used to fight. When we arrived, two Japanese ladies were playing traditional music on the Shamisen (Bonjo-like instrument). The traditional Japanese atmosphere was enhanced by tatami, which was laid out perfectly around the fighting circle. Once again we had to sit on the floor and drink our Yebisu beer while trying not to knock over the glasses with our knees. It still amazes me how Japanese people sit on their legs with such facility.  The people we were eating with, were Takao’s friends from the Goete Institut. They were all German students and were glad to have us to speak to and finally exploit their newly learnt skills. Although the communication was sometimes slightly difficult, it was the perfect evening to end this wonderful journey.

This was now the fourth time I have been to Japan and it will not be the last. I am already looking forward to the next time I can visit this wonderful country again. Now the sun sets, but tomorrow it will rise again.

Song of the day: 

St. Lois Blues

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vIxbghgyxDU