After purchasing a few Studio Ghibli goods from a department store (poor Rob and Joe- I spent ages deciding which ones to get; for those of you who haven't seen Spirited Away or My Neighbour Totoro - well worth a watch).... Joe took us to his neck of the woods around Mitaka (West-side). We went to see some local temples of which there were many - all stunning and set in amazing grounds. Then went back to his to meet his wife Mika and daughter Aly who was very cu...

Moved house today from our backpackers to a proper Japanese style Ryokan (guesthouse) which was pretty fancy - lots of dark wood panels and even a jacuzzi upstairs (not sure that's entirely traditional!)It was called Andon Ryokan and although a bit far North in Minowa (planet nowhere) it was worth the travelling to stay in somewhere so unique. Again friendly friendly people who seem to go out of their way to make you have the best holiday possible. Went to a Sum...

Rainy day so pottered around a bit before heading down the Sumida - gawa (river) to the Detached Palace Garden. There was what seemed like a whole class of 11 year olds on the boat with us who wanted to practice their English so we passed a happy half hour with conversation like.. 'Becky! Becky! What is your favourite colour?!' 'I like purple' and .....(me) 'Ummm do you like animals?' Rob seemed to escape the interrogation slightly as he was sat the other side of...

After lots and lots of sleep went to Ueno Park. Watched a team croquet game. The red team won and the little old lady (no.5) was mean!! Went to the Tokyo National Museum and learnt about the History of Japanese Art amongst other things. Managed the train system all by ourselves without Joe so were feeling quite chuffed. Really hot and humid here today. Off out for food in a bit.... Went to our first big temple (by night) - Senso-ji in Asakusa. Pretty cool stuff...

Arrived safely yesterday and pretty much just crashed at our hotel as were exhausted. Stayed at Matsui Garden Hotel, Ginza - not a luxury we can get used to (see pics!) Had an amazing view but were too busy sleeping to enjoy it. Today - Went to the Tsukiji Fish Market at 5am. 5am!!! Lots of... fish and busy people signalling for us to get out the way on crazy high speed scooters! Eventually found the auction and there fish the size of humans! Then went for some ...