Day 8

With crusty eyes and long, sleepy faces, we dragged ourselves out of bed only to plop ourselves in front of a buffet of food. Although not what we’re usually used to eating, our feast of vegetable soup, eggs, “bacon”, fruit, boiled potatoes and cauliflower beckoned to be consumed. After our meal, we hopped onto the bus en route to a 5 story tall action figure, also known as a giant Gundam. Although it was just a pit stop where we could take a picture, it was a sight nonetheless to see a giant action figure.

Following that, we made our way to the Miraikan Museum of engineering and science where we could roam freely to learn about various topics including the universe, our DNA, genomes, health, and robotic advances. Most importantly, the latest advancements in robotics was shown to us through Asimo, Japan’s latest and greatest robot. In just a brief ten minutes, we were shown how far technology has progressed. Asimo walked, talked, and won over all of our hearts with her amazing dance moves. The most disappointing feature Asimo lacked was doing “the robot” when she was grooving out to the music. How ironic. Regardless, we were all impressed with the speed, flexibility, balance, and smooth moves shown. A small child was even placed in front of the robot to play soccer. Her kicks went smoothly with uncanny accuracy. This only further amazed us and made us believe that Japan’s innovative technologic progress has no ceiling.

Walking and watching helped to build up an appetite, which could only be eased with our delicious sukiyaki lunch. Sukiyaki is a traditional Japanese dish that became popular after the Edo period due to the growth of trade in beef. Sukiyaki is thin slices of beef and various vegetables cooked in a sweet and salty sauce. The consumer can then choose to dip their meat into raw egg, which makes brings out the flavor of the meat while making it tender as a baby’s bottom. It may not have been Kobe beef, but it’s the closest we’ve had yet. The main difference from the sukiyaki we eat in the states and what we had for lunch was the freshness. Most places prepare the dish for you, and serve it all as one finished product. However, we had the privilege of preparing our own food to ensure maximum freshness.

With bulging bellies, we made our way to a special exhibit featuring various arts around Japan. Upon arriving, we were greeted by a cute baby toddler who had mixed feelings about us. Initially, she approached us with the courage of a lion, only to flee away with the shyness of a stray cat. We just had to take a picture with her. Insert picture here. Once inside, We (or for me anyways) weren’t expecting much. However, this turned out to be one of the most interesting parts of the trip. All we did was sit in front of a projector, watching short films (4-5 minutes each) of various arts around Japan. With high definition, professional filming, we were transported into the life of different workers showing off their trade. We were introduced to blacksmiths, cooks, tool makers, basket weavers, box assemblers, and fish preservers. Although it sounds rather dull, it was definitely a “you had to be there” kind of thing. It was something that thoroughly described the passion and pride these Japanese civilians take in their work.

Harajuku. A wonder of Tokyo that inspires even Gwen Stefani-san to make her own line of bags. Once arriving, it was clear that this place was definitely a place to “shop till you drop”. Hundreds of thousands of civilians swarm to search for the kawaii-est items at the not-so-cheap prices. A couple of us went out to find a Japanese specialty: a ball shaped wheat flower batter pan fried with octopus inside also known takoyaki. Although rather rich with the mayonnaise topping, it was simply delicious. Our eyes also feasted on the act cooking portion which the chefs due with uncanny speed and accuracy. Definitely a sight to see. with our bellies once again filled with something new, we had the fuel to walk, or rather, dodge the many citizens as we weaved to and fro to search for our exotic Japanese goods. Purchases included jam, clothing, lightsaber chopsticks, k-pop calendars, beanies, and fancy button down shirts. Although happy with our purchases, our wallets definitely took a hit due to the steep prices.

After dropping off our goods at the hotel, we walked to our dinner location with steak awaiting us. Although definitely not as tender as the meat during lunch, we feasted on a hamburger patty, steak, corn, bean sprouts, and rice. Although unnecessary, the chunk of butter melting atop the steak definitely provided a rich, juicy mouthful of beefy delicious-ness. Gochisosamadeshita!

With our bellies once again filled with delicious foods, we decided to walk it off by visiting a local department store. Tokyu hands was probably the biggest stationary store any of us have seen, boasting 7 floors of anything and everything you can ask for in an arts and crafts store. Although a great find for many of us, our wallets were definitely feeling a little slimmer by the end of the night.

To end the night, we ended up at the top floor of city hall, where we could take in the city lights at night. Although the San Francisco skyline is amazing, Tokyo’s night show is a close rival with pretty city lights as far as the eye can see. By the end of the night, we were all tired and weary. Moans and groans could be heard throughout Japan as we learned we would be waking up at 5:45 am the following day. It is now 12:10. We also have to pack and get ready to leave since it’s our last night in Tokyo. With probably less than five hours of sleep, I sincerely hope my host student will be patient with the half-awake shadow of myself individual I’ll be dragging around tomorrow. Straight from Japan, Sayonara!