Konnichi Wa Tokyo

“I've never really wanted to go to Japan. Simply because I don’t like eating fish. And I know that's very popular out there in Africa.”
-Britney Spears

Thankfully I've arrived, and mostly settled, in this country that isn't in Africa. And I've yet to eat any fish. But so far my experience has been stereotypically Japanese. Lots of crowded trains, hyper-politeness, and oddball television. Ordering a meal from an ATM-like machine resulted in some surprisingly delicious nourishment and damn if the Japanese don't know how to make some tasty booze.

My apartment—a somewhat generous assessment—ain't too shabby, although it's a bit far from downtown. The bathroom is a particular highlight: a cross between an airplane lavatory and that shower Bill Murray suffers through in Lost in Translation. Still, the more suburban area in which I live pleasantly recalls the settings of my favorite Japanese movies; Ozu's camera would feel right at home among the narrow streets and small eateries of my neighborhood.

Especially Japanese was the typhoon that apparently caused Sophia to cancel our orientation this afternoon. It seemed little more than a Seattle drizzle with abnormally strong winds, but I suppose it qualifies as a typhoon if they say so. While the weather may have put a slight damper on my explorational spirits, it did give me time to do some essential shopping (at a store so simply and so Japanesely named "Life"). Surprisingly, Tokyo prices didn't immediately set my wallet ablaze, but I did forgo an $8 fork for 10¢ chopsticks.The grocery store nearby had a pretty decent selection of food, and although not insanely priced, I have to admit I was pining for Trader Joe's.

It's been a fast, but enjoyable two days. Either jet lag hasn't kicked in or last night's good sleep is keeping me energized, but I'm feeling fairly adjusted. We'll see how awake I'm feeling tomorrow. Hopefully I will post some pictures tomorrow as well. Sianara!