Night Bus! (Tokyo Pt 1)

To reach our goal of Tokyo, Nick, Jenny, Aaron and I caught a ride on the Night Bus. For all you Potter fans out there, you know what was going through my brain when I heard "Night Bus." Sadly, this guy wasn't purple or magical, but it did get us to Tokyo in about 8 hours!

Off the bus, we grabbed some coffee, and hopped on the subway. Man, the subway system in Tokyo is soooo cool! It's almost ridiculously fast and efficient, with new trains every few minutes. I really wish every city I will ever visit would have one.

We arrive at our hotel, check our bags [we couldn't check in til 3], then head off to explore the city. We headed to Ueno Park first, so Nick could see the pandas in the zoo, and Aaron and I could see the two museums housed there. Guess we picked a bad day, 'cause the zoo and both museums were closed that day.

But here's a statue of Saigo Takamori. He rates a statue 'cause first he supported the Meiji Restoration, then got fed up and led a rebellion 10 years later. He was "allowed" to commit seppuku, and was pardoned post-humously, and honored with a statue.

After the park, we headed down Ameyoko alley. Very crowded, loads of seafoood for sale, lots of shoes and clothes. We'd heard there were bargains to be found down this alley, but that must just be by Tokyo prices, as everything was really pricey. Did find a great tea shop, though.

Back to the hotel for a good nap, then out to find Mexican for dinner. We found the place, but it was closed for the new year holiday. We set off to Roppongi instead, and ate tuna fish n chips at an English style pub. Pretty tasty, and came with house-made Guinness vinegar! mmmm.

Wandered around a bit more, headed back to the hotel where we got to sleep... in a bed! Now, I actually like futons, and I love how spacious a tatami room looks when the futon's all rolled up in the closet, but let's hear it for sleeping off the floor!
End Day 1