Cherry Bullet Train

I can't get enough of the Shinkansen or bullet train. It has everything, a sleek design, tremendous speed and cool technology. Usually, I am lucky enough to use them once or twice a year. This time the same as last, to go on holiday, an added bonus.

This this one from the newer Sakura (cherry) service which runs between Shin Osaka and Kyushu. The service started on the 12th March 2011, and uses shorter 8 carriage N700 series Shinkansens. Unfortunately, I wasn't lucky enough to ride it as my journey started in Tokyo.

Useful TV

It is amazing what is on Japanese TV in the afternoon.
How about a programme on how to shop with a credit card. Now that's what I call useful.

Boring Job

All of us have complained about our jobs being boring at one time or another and also uttered that watching paint dry would be more exciting, Well this guy has that job or one close to it. Here he is watching over his drying concrete.

I walked passed him twice today and he was just standing there with no one else around on both occasions. Tough work, but I guess someone's got to do it.

Polling Day

Which one of these handsome devils is gonna get your vote in today's election?
Not sure why looks are so important here. Plus what happened to number 22 and the other blanks. Of course I can't vote anyway, being a foreigner.

Campaign Trail

Well its the election tomorrow and all the parties have been out and about today giving it their best and making as much noise as possible. Campaigning in Japan usually means going around in a van covered in speakers and continuously shouting out that you will do your best. The preferred time being early Sunday mornings, which pisses me off when they wake me up.

This was more unusual however, a couple of politicians battling their way through the afternoon crowds in Ikebukuro. Somewhere in the middle of the scrum were the top guys from the KokuminshintoParty. The banners say 'against increasing tax' by the way.

Narrow Paths

You usually only see these narrow streets in the oldest areas of Tokyo.
I found this one near my local shopping street and was totally surprised by it's length and the beauty of some of the old houses, which hinted at it's age.

Going Home

Its always fun to watch the other drunkards on the train home. Falling over, sleeping and if you are in Shinjuku maybe fighting.

An alcohol inspired view from my seat after a night out near Tokyo Station. Plus the station itself.