Back in Tokyo, and just in case everyone did not get to see enough temples in Kyoto...
...we start the day by going to Meiji Jingu, a shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, located in Shibuya. What is interesting about this shrine is that it is located in the middle of 175 acre man-made forest in central Tokyo. When the park was being constructed trees from all over Japan were donated to create the forest, celebrating Emperor Meiji's role in the Meiji Restoration - or the return of imperial rule to Japan
Kristin poses in front of the wall of sake casks which are donated to the shrine by various people, businesses, corporations, and civic groups to be used at certain festivals and special events
The giant torii, or gateway, leading to the central shrine
The central shrine, called the Naien, or inner precinct
No trip to Meiji Jingu is complete without a trip through Harajuku, the famous district for counter culture fashion.
Not sure if Paul is shocked by what he sees, or fears Kristin will spend their life savings in 20 minutes here
The main shopping street. Unfortunately, this is rather plain fashion for this area. Perhaps due to the hot weather and being a weekday we were not lucky enough to witness some of the extreme outfits often seen here
Dad did get to see some of the outfits in stores, and was chased off by one owner for taking pictures
An underwear store. Pretty innovative sales display
outside Shibuya station
Everyone poses outside of the Sumo stadium in front of the wrestlers flags
The wrestlers perform the traditional introduction ceremony prior to the main matches beginning
Hakuho - the current Yokozuna, or highest ranking a sumo wrestler can achieve.
It is amazing how flexible guys this huge can be.
The guy in grey is Baruto, a wrestler from Estonia. Watanabe-sans sons say I look like him. I hope it is more the skin complexion than weight or facial appearance.
The endorsement banners prior to Hakuho's battle
Everyone posing in front of the drummers tower following the days tournament
Thanks to Paul for letting me get into a picture in front of the arena
And thanks to a stranger for letting us all get into a picture together
No trip to Japan is complete without going to dinner for Yaki-niku, or grilled meat. The experience of cooking everything yourself at your table is great fun, unless the person beside you keeps stealing your food
Dad approved, and really enjoyed a different grilling experience
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