Japan Photos

The upside of Pat training in Japan is that I've had the chance to visit Tokyo twice in the past few months -- the first time in February for a weekend and the second for Easter break. Here are just a few photos:

I was lucky enough to catch the tail end of the cherry blossoms in April. Here, in Shinjuku Gyoen.










I know vending machinese in Japan are famous, but we were surprised to see this fortune vending machine at a shrine in Kamakura.

Aside from relaxing hot springs, Hakone offers a touristy but pleasant route of attractions that combines train, bus, tram, cable car and ferry travel. One stop is Owakudani -- 'hell valley', formed by a volcanic eruption centuries ago and complete with steam and sulfur smells.



My photos can't capture the elaborateness of the Toshogu Shrine in Nikko. Definitely worth a visit for the sheer contrast of the ornately sculpted buildings with the imposing but quiet natural beauty of the forest around.


If you're interested in more photos, go here.