Robot Soldier

Today started with a trip to Asakusa to see Senso-ji, along with what seemed like the whole 40m population of Tokyo (it was a beautiful day). We slowly made our way up from the gate to the temple reckoning that the crowds may have been a plant to ensure maximum time to peruse the many many stalls selling all kinds of original Japanese wares - at 'very good prices.'

Definitely spectacular, with the 5 storey pagoda and beautiful outbuildings, but absolutely (although understandably) mobbed. We decided to stump up 300¥ to get into the gallery and gardens next to the temple as the garden looked worth a visit. Turns out that 300¥ (£2) was the tipping point for the masses as we found ourselves in an oasis of calm with just a handful of other folk who were willing to pay. Well worth it, and not just because it was only two quid.

After some takoyaki for lunch with Nori, we made our way out to Mitaka to the Ghibli Museum. Aiko joined us at the station and from there the four of headed over to see Hayao Miyazaki's studio, a room with a Catbus in it and 'get lost like children together.' It was a great place, much bigger than we thought it'd be, with lots of nooks and crannies (that's for Aiko) to explore, spiral stair cases between floors and up onto the roof to the garden where the Robot Soldier stands.

I quite like the 'will you take a photo of me/us here please' dance that you get while on holiday (and sometimes at home too). It all starts with the quiet assessment of the camera you are using by the soon to be requester. They are scoping the place out for a suitable candidate to entrust not only their equipment but also the shot taking responsibility to. A nice tactic is for the requester to ask if you would like your picture taken, then ambush you to return the favour. It's all pleasant though. I took pictures for 4 folk today. I just wish the one they took of L and I didn't have the top of the temple cropped off.