Signature floral arrangement for Imperial Hotel. Live flowers and mechanics were well hidden.

Artistic wall in Imperial Hotel cafe - all tiles

close up of wall

Main Lobby

Asakusa Kannon Temple in Tokyo. Gold statue of Kannon - Buddha's goddess of mercy is here.

Incense burner - rainy day so not in use but people believe wafting smoke over them keeps them healthy

According to DK guide book, this is a lightening rod

Wonderful lighting effects at night - this is a light emmitting dragon.

Senso-Ji Temple - Tokyo's most sacred & spectacular

Detail on massive gate

5 story pagoda - replica constructed in 1973.

Seiko???

One of many gardens. Bibs on figures are prayers for babies who have not survived.

The Japanese decorate for the 4 seasons - silk cherry blossoms on natural branches line the street. We thought they were real.

First opportunity to shop - tourist trap but good for Christmas tree decorations. They are actually blessings, prayers, etc.

Closed shop security doors are works of art in themselves

Street is a shopper's treasure trove according to DK but closed due to rain and early morning hour

Jeans worn under skirts - many layers in ladies fashion and not just for warmth.

Roof lines and construction techniques most interesting

Red Hat club in Japan

Judy getting information from our guide

Japanese style toilet in Edo Tokyo Museum. One squats over it. Most times there is a choice.

Wood worker and all his tools

Birthing room. Women made to remain sitting for 7 days after birth - said often ruined their health.

Example of what a print maker's shop would look like

Kabuki Theater stage and costumes. Founded by a woman but men play all parts because women "immoral".

Memory from my childhood - honey buckets were in use in 1948-49. 4 local ladies had more fun putting this on their shoulders. They laughed.

Highly decorated cart pulled at festivals. Also subject of many prints then it is filled with flowers.

Master of tea ceremony at work

Monk recording Q&A at end of tea cememony. The whole performance was video taped

Samuri William learning to make tea

Combines spirit of religious service w/style of performing art = essence of Japanese artistic sensibility

"The way of tea" creates harmony and peace w/n hearts and minds of participants.

Takes a lot of whisking to make it properly frothy.

Before guests arrive, tea room is cleaned, garden swept, flowers arranged & utensilss polished.

Had slight spinach taste to me. Thicker than regular green tea.

Supposed to be drunk in 3 swallows. Guide book says "green tea provides an unexpected buzz" I somehow missed that part.