Tsukiji Fish market
We anxiously woke up early in the morning to train to Tsukiji Fish market to take advantage of the fresh catches brought in by the fisherman. As we strolled through the hectic market with racing forklifts and dock workers yelling at each other, and the smell of fresh fish was pervasive. Although it was way earlier than our normal breakfast time, we sat down at one of the sushi bars and enjoyed a beer while watching the sushi chef hoist a giant tuna onto his cutting board, slice it open with a machette, then blow-torch the choicest pieces. Needless to say, it was the freshest sushi we'd ever tasted.
Tifana Tattoo shop
After the market, we returned to Shibuya and navigated the street signs in all Japanese to Tifana Tattoo shop. Dave was paired with a female artist who spoke minimal English. We collaborated with her on a traditional Japanese style design and watched in awe as she drew a beautiful peony flower by hand.
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That night we celebrated Aubrey and Dave's birthday at the Hyatt Hotel, famously portrayed in Sofia Coppola's Lost in Translation.
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Harajuku
The next morning we explored Harajuku, an area known for shopping and fashionable patrons. It was almost like a Halloween parade, with people dressed like schoolgirls, dolls and goth zombies. It's located on the unfortunately named "Takeshita" Street.
Ginza
We also toured the fancy Ginza area. We arrived at 9am and as we entered the grand department store, all of its employees were lined up to bow to us.
Dave photographed the sunrise somewhere over the Pacific as we flew back to California, which, after visiting Japan, seemed oddly different, strange and weird.
