room with a view

They are almost all gone - but this is the view from my desk at the moment.

moving to the country (NOT!)

There is no doubt about it the air is cleaner, the sky looks more blue, the surroundings are calmer...but we couldn't help but stop and wonder all day - where the hell do these country folk buy a cool pair of jeans, get their mac fixed or grab their groceries for that matter??
Today's trip beyond the city limits confirmed we are not cut out for country living, but it was a much needed getaway. Arriving back at the everbusy Ikebukuro station was like a slap in the face, a familiar and somewhat comforting slap in the face.
If you are looking for a little getaway, Chichibu is the place. Not much to do except take in the devine sites and breath the fresh, fresh air. Oh if you are feeling a little bit adventurous there is a rapid ride down the river, albiet very tame. Take the red arrow from Ikebukuro, one and a half hour relaxing ride out of town. The free day pass makes it an easy day out.

Here's a joke for you...

What do you get when you cross a torrential downpour with the biggest outdoor party day of the year in Tokyo?

Close to 1000 sopping wet revelers cramming themselves under the tiny shelter at Harajuku station. Jostling to get a ticket was an uphill battle.