Sunday, August 26, 2012

Kamakura and Harajuka too

First full day in Japan and it was wonderful. But I have to tell you when they say it gets hot in summer, they are not kidding. Not only are the temps in the 90's, the sun beating down but there is about 80% humidity. I have sweat today in places I did not know I could! We started the day in Kamakura, a lovely town by the beach (on the Pacific Ocean. It is not only known for its lovely beach but for the shrines that dot the town. The most famous being a Buddha so large you can go in him, for 20yen! The Buddha is surrounded by lovely gardens full of Lotus flowers. From there we went to Shamia. It is much like Time Square with large electronic billboards and plenty of shopping. Also of note is the statue to a dog. This dog met his master everyday after work. When the master died suddenly the dog stayed and faithfully waited for his master. For 17 years he waited and for his loyalty the townspeople erected a statue in his honor. Now the statue is a famous meeting place. Our next stop was Harajuka, with its colorful stores and even more colorful people. It is famous for costumes most resembling punk lolitas. Next was back to our hotel to wait for my brother and nephew. They successfully navigated the train to make it safely here. After a quick beef bowl, walk and a beer it was back to the hotel for well needed rest and to get ready for the main city of Tokyo tomorrow.

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