Forget the Taxi, Take A Rickshaw

As I mentioned in an earlier post, taking a taxi from Old Street in Shanghai was practically impossible. It was very cold, so when we were propositioned by an elderly gentleman in a motorized rickshaw...we accepted. Of course, we were worried about whether the flimsy looking vehicle could keep us safe from the elements...and from the traffic. Despite our concerns, we jumped in and had the most interesting ride of our entire trip. It's cheap, fast, and easy...and a great alternative way to travel!

Shanghai Old Street

Another famous spot in Shanghai is Old Street. It's a street of shops and it's a great place to pick up all kinds of souvenirs. The streets are lined with food and loud and aggressive vendors trying to persuade you to come into their shops. Be prepared to be harassed and to bargain for what you want. Another thing to be prepared for is the lack of taxis leaving Old Street. It takes forever to find a taxi, and if you do, be aware that you'll literally have to fight others to get a seat. My friend and I waited so long for a taxi, that we finally ventured into a rickshaw...more details to follow...haha!

Snakes for Lunch in Shanghai

The Chinese are notorious for eating just about everything. I've tried a lot of different food while on assignment in Japan, so the idea of having even more unusual food in China was quite appealing. When I heard that eating snakes in China was fairly common, I immediately asked our concierge for directions and recommendations for the best snake in town. He informed me that the government was cracking down on serving snakes, opting instead to protect them. Although not as plentiful as they were in the past, he still had a recommendation of good snake at a restaurant not far from our hotel. After all of the buildup, I can only say that I was surprised to find quite a bit of bones in our snake...but not surprised by the lack of meat. To me, once I got over the mental picture involved with eating a snake, the taste was pretty easy to handle. The lack of meat made me feel like I was eating more batter than anything...it was an experience, tons of fun, but I'm glad I had lots of rice to eat as well...or I may have been hungry. Interestingly enough, snakes aren't the most filling lunch around..haha

Visiting the Yuyuan Garden of Shanghai

Another stop on our weekend tour was of the Yuyuan Garden in Shanghai. I will be honest and admit that I'm not much of a nature girl, and parks don't usually thrill me...but this one was pretty good. The architecture and landscaping seemed was very obviously traditional Chinese style and an interesting break from the busy market right outside it's doors. It was pretty cold while we were there, but on a nice day, I'm sure it's even better!

More information can be found at: http://www.chinahighlights.com/shanghai/attraction/yuyuan-garden.htm

Hello China: Visit the Jade Buddha Temple

During my short week in Shanghai, I am determined to take in some of the sights - I don't want to spend my entire trip here in an office. Over the weekend, my favorite Singaporean travel buddy and I visited several key places in attempt to see the highlights of Japan.

One of our first stops was to the Jade Buddha Temple. The temple was quite a bit larger than I expected when entering, and had tons of Buddha statues and places for worship. There were tons of tourists and locals there...a definite see in Shanghai.

For more information, visit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jade_Buddha_Temple

Last Day of Working in Japan....Look at my "office"

One of the first things that people generally ask me about the differences between working here in Japan as opposed to the U.S. On my last working day at the headquarters of a large and famous Japanese company, I snapped a picture of my workplace. There are so many differences in the working culture, but one of the most pronounced is captured in this picture.

In the US, I always worked in a private office. I know that I've been quite fortunate in that regard, but even for those who don't work in offices, most office workers have a cube...with some walls and some privacy. We also usually have personal phone lines and operate quite independently.

The reverse is true in Japan...the office space is one big office...there is little personal space...and absolutely no barriers between you and the next person. There is a communal telephone line, and generally the youngest or least senior person in the group is responsible for answering the phone and directing the calls toward the other members in the team.

It would be easy to say that one system is good while another is bad, but it's more important, I think to realize the merits of both systems...interesting!

It's Almost Sakura Season

It's fairly common knowledge that I LOVE pink!! So, whenever I mention to someone that my assignment is over this week, they always say that I'm leaving just before Sakura...or cherry blossom season. I will miss the big blooming near Tokyo, but as part of my last weekend's day trip, my friends and I traveled to Kawazu, a place near the sea where the Sakura come out earlier. In Kawazu, it was actually the end of Kawazu's Sakura season...but seeing so many of the blooms was a great way to end my experiences here in Japan...beautiful!

Ichigo in Izu...it's Strawberry Season!

I love strawberries!! For my last weekend in Japan, my friends and I took a day trip to nearby Izu. There, we visited a strawberry farm and took the opportunity to see a different environment, outside of Tokyo. It was refreshing, and for about $20, we paid to sample and enjoy all the strawberries we could eat. Who knew there were so many different types of strawberries? Yummy!!

The Masked Bandits

One of the first peculiar things that I noticed upon arriving in Japan is the people wearing masks. On the trains, in the streets, in the office...you see people wearing these masks. Instead of asking someone and risking seeming silly...I assumed that they were for protection against pollution. But, a few weeks later I concluded that pollution couldn't be the reason so I asked. The masks are what people wear when they're sick - to protect themselves and others from passing on the coughing, sneezing and other similar symptoms....
Apparently, I wasn't the only one surprised and confused by the abundance of masks...my mother also asked about them when she came for a visit. I wore my mask to work yesterday, not because I was sick, but because I wanted to try it out. And can I just say that they are as uncomfortable as they look...lol

Toilets in Japan: Take 3

This is my final week in Tokyo...my assignment actually ends on Thursday. I'll be traveling to China for a week before my return to the U.S. Of course, I'm excited to get back home, but I'm also really going to miss so much about living and working in Tokyo.

I've made some really great times, expanded my horizons...and encountered so many interesting things. One of this first and silliest posts I made in my blog was about toilets. So, I guess I'm returning to my roots a bit with this post.

This is an interesting toilet, in that, it's connected to a faucet. So, when you flush this toilet water comes out the faucet simultaneously... I know that it's not dirty water or anything, but the fact that the water comes out of the faucet at the exact time you're flushing seems more than a little strange to me. Convenient, yes...but it's still hard to get the idea of out your head that you're not washing your hands with dirty water...lol

Happy Birthday, Tokyo Disney!!

This season marks the 25th anniversary of Disney in Tokyo...so it's one year younger than me...how exciting!! It's a really big attraction here, as in most places, so I wanted to make sure to visit before I leave Tokyo next week (time really flies when your having fun). To be honest, I really feel like Disney is best enjoyed with kids in tow or maybe as part of a romantic couple. It's definitely about the experience - about the sights and sounds as opposed to the exciting rides. With that understood, there are two opportunities for enjoying Disney in Tokyo...Disney Land or Disney Sea. Disney Land, as I've heard is more targeted towards children and the Disney Characters while Disney Land is the home of more of the exciting rides. I'm a rider, so it was an easy choice for me...Disney Sea. I had a great time in the Tower of Terror (2 times) and in the Journey to the Center of the Earth Ride. My friend and I discovered that we could basically eliminate the wait time by riding the roller coaster as single riders. By breezing by the lines that lasted for about two hours, we had the opportunity to ride the roller coaster 3 times in less the amount of time it took other riders to go on only once. The only downside was that we didn't get to ride together...but took our chances with random strangers. In the end, it was well worth it and we had a great time...definitely an option to consider for future amusement park visits.

Who Eats Strawberry Popcorn, Anyways?

I went to Disney Sea yesterday...lucky me! I was actually approved a day off by my manager to go on a weekday - hoping to avoid the massive crowds on the weekends at Disney. No such luck - in spite of the fact that it was a Thursday, the crowds were still ridiculous...several rides had a two hour or longer wait...crazy! I haven't been to a Disney park in awhile, several years ago at least. Although in Tokyo, things were still very similar. I don't know if things have changed...but one interesting phenomenon I did note was that there was several popcorn stands located all around...the mere presence of popcorn wasn't so extraordinary...but it was the flavors offered. I love popcorn, and cheese is my favorite...but I couldn't find it anywhere. As can be expected there was salt and caramel...but unexpectedly there was black pepper and strawberry as well. Interesting, and not at all tempting. In conversation with my boyfriend last night, he chastised me for not trying the strawberry popcorn or getting some for him...go figure!

Eating Fish Sperm In Tsukiji

For many foreigners, Tsukiji is synonymous with Fish market. This is because the Tsukiji fish market is super famous, a place where many tourists visit in the early morning darkness (4:00 or 5:00 AM) to witness the fish auctions firsthand. I'm told it's an amazing place to see and experience, but like many of my Japanese co-workers, I just couldn't bring myself to wake up that early to witness it's many charms. For those who can, I've heard great reviews...so I would definately recommend. For those who are unable to get up quite that early, not to worry...Tsukiji as more to offer than just the early morning auctions. It's the place to be for the freshest fish and seafood, and if you're here in the winter months, the place to be to experience a special Japanese dish...fish sperm. Intrigued by the concept, I made a trip to Tsukiji after work last week, and tried the dish for myself. It wasn't the best thing I've eaten in Japan, and I wouldn't recommend gorging yourself on the dish, but a taste or two was a great alternative to the fish market...lol!

For more information about the Tsujiki fish market, visit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tsukiji_fish_market.

Sexual Harrassment in Tokyo

Let me begin by saying that based on my experiences, Tokyo is an astonishingly safe city. The crime I hear being reported is extremely rare, and compared to the US, is practically non-existent. I've never felt unsafe or concerned about my safety, in spite of walking around by myself at all times of the day or night. In preparation for assignment, I was warned of the possibility of being harassed or touched inappropriately, especially in crowded commuter trains. To combat that phenomenon, I have noticed "women only" cars on certain trains, regulated at certain times. Fortunately, I have not experienced any such incidents. I have had a few questionable remarks directed my way, but nothing that I wouldn't experience in the US, or any other country for that matter. In fact, this interesting sign has been the closest I've been to any real sexual harassment!!

Cosplay in Akihabara

In lieu of a traditional U.S. Valentine celebration - my friends and I here in Japan planned to explore the phenomenon of Cosplay resturants. We made reservations and had drinks at a maid cafe and attempted to visit a butler cafe as well. We were disappointed to discover that in spite of our big plans, we weren't impressed by the cafes nor by the maids unwillingness to have their pictures taken. So, instead of attempting to get pictures of these maids, we decided to become the maids. In Akihabara, we rented traditional maid costumes and took to the streets. Similarly to my experiences in Kyoto, we got lots of laughs by strangers...but still had a great time! Why simply explore the culture, when you can become a part of it?

For more information about Cosplay resturants, refer to: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cosplay_restaurant

Welcome to Akihabara: Electric Town

One of the first things that people ask about when they hear that I'm in Japan is the electronics. They want to know about all the deals and cool gadgets that I've found here...and I generally don't have much to say on the topic. This is for two main reasons. One, the few times that I've ventured over to an electronics store to buy something, I've noticed that the prices weren't any cheaper than the ones I can find in the U.S. and online. I'm a bargain hunter first and foremost, so in spite of Japan's reputation, I wasn't overly impressed. The second reason is probably most important, I'm not technically savvy....at all. I'm always the last to buy the new gadgets, I don't care to have the most updated cell phone, and I'm not certain of the specs of my digital pink camera. But, for those who are interested...I'd suggest a trip to Akihabara. This area of Tokyo is famous for electronic and computer goods...lots of speciality stores and opportunities for to explore, for those who are so inclined...

See more about Akihabara at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akihabara

Some Sumo

Although I live in a major sports city (go Steelers) I'm not much of a sports fan. I'm embarrassed to admit that I have never been to a pro football game or hockey game or baseball game...or really any of the big games that are so big in Pittsburgh. I often find it hard to watch games on tv, but in spite of these facts, I was really eager to go to watch Sumo while in Tokyo. As I imagined, the tradition and rituals surrounding the matches seemed as important as the actual match. Going to a match was pretty exciting, even for a non-sports fan. The size of the participants, the excitement in the crowd and the opportunity to watch big men in diapers was too hard to pass up. Tons (haha) of fun!!

Traveling Tips: Take the Shinkansen

When people talk about how good the transportation system in Japan is, they aren't lying. I didn't bring my car here, and many/most residents of Tokyo don't drive (similar to other big cities like NYC, Washington DC). Although I do miss the freedom associated with driving, I would not want to have to worry about driving on the left side of the street, reading signs, parking, etc... And, the public transportation system is quite convenient, punctual, and pretty easy to figure out. Most signs are also written in English (especially in the city) and I have been able to make do with my extremely limited Japanese and most people's ability to explain the basics in English. I travel for the most part on the metro and subway, but have also had the pleasure of riding in the Shinkansen or the "bullet train." It's a high speed and super comfortable way to travel, especially for those longer trips. It can be a bit pricey, but when traveling make sure to make comparisons and factor in the Shinkansen...it's always a great option!

For more information about the Shinkansen, go to: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shinkansen

Workplace Workings: Do the dishes!!

I was amused when my co-worker informed me yesterday that it was her turn to do the dishes...I seriously thought she was joking at first. But this was no joke. She was actually referring to the fact that everyone in the office takes turning washing and drying the coffee cups and makers each day. She knew it was her turn because she'd been passed a little marker from the person who'd done it the day before. There are janitors here, they come and empty the trash but the idea of pitching in to this degree is a new one to me....

Workplace Workings: The Smoking Room

I'll start out by saying that I'm not a smoker. I'm also not really bothered by smoking. I often don't notice it, and I generally unbothered by it's presence. That being said, I am fully aware of the danger of second-hand smoke and think it's a good thing that it's so harshly regulated in the US...no complaints from me. However, for those who are smokers and are troubled by the lengths (often literal) they have to go to take a smoke break, you are in luck in Japan. You can still smoke in restaurants and bars, there is a smoking car on the train, and right down the hall from my office there is also a smoking room. While my co-workers who smoke back in the US have to exit the building and often walk a significant distance away from it (no joke in the arctic cold of Pittsburgh) - my colleagues here in Japan can simply stop in to the room on the way to the bathroom...how interesting!

Absolut Icebar: Tokyo Style

The Absolut Icebar in Tokyo isn't a reflection of Japanese culture. It's actually an import from Sweden, and while I was there last year, I didn't get a chance to go. When I heard that there was one in Tokyo...I signed up immediately. It's cold, it's a novelty, and it's tons of fun to attend with friends. Although it took awhile to convince my friends to bear with the temperature, I think they all had a good time and would go again (maybe next time in the summer).

Roppongi, the area of Tokyo where the Icebar is located has so many places to go and is quite infamous for it's lively nightlife. Foreigners are everywhere in Roppongi, so whatever you're looking for - you're sure to find. Have fun, and stay warm!

You must make a reservation beforehand...you can do it online at: http://www.icebartokyo.com/eng/index.html

Participating in Tea Ceremony = Kneeling in an Uncomfortable Position

What an honor! Yesterday, I was invited into the home of my co-worker's Japanese host family. At their home, they practice the traditional art of tea ceremony about once or twice a month. I got the opportunity to see the ceremony up close twice and participate as well. I was intrigued with the patience of all involved, and the absolute detailing that was required. The number of steps each person were counted, the bowls were turned by each person a certain number of times, a certain had to be used first....the details were absolutely endless. While I will admit it was hard to follow, I truly appreciated the care and effort made to connect to the past tradition. The beautiful women pictured above mentioned to me that the kimonos they were belonged to their mothers and grandmothers...how cool!

I would certainly encourage visitors to take part in this ritual, if given the opportunity. As a word of caution, the pose above is completely uncomfortable!! Even though the ceremony took an hour or less, it felt three times as long trying to remain in this position. Thankfully, the hosts permitted us to sit in a modified that wasn't quite as painful...interestingly enough, they were able to endure much better than us....and remained sitting this way the entire time...true discipline. More information about the ceremony can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_tea_ceremony

Who Needs A Pedicure? Dr. Fish to the Rescue

Back in the States, I get pedicures quite regularly. Especially in the summer...everybody likes to have pretty feet, right? And not to be gross, but dry dead skin is never attractive on your feet...no matter how much pink polish you use...dry skin will make your feet look positively gross. In my quest for soft feet, void of dead skin, I've used a number of products some with better results than others. A few years back, I recall seeing a spot on the news about a new craze in upscale salons...where the clients put their feet into tanks of water where little fish come and feast on the dead skin on their feet. The salon was charging outrageous prices...so i didn't really think much of it...just another thing that's out of my range.

Imagine my surprise, then, while strolling through the foot onsen at Odaiba, I saw an advertisement for Dr. Fish. For about 1500 Yen, I could have these little fish nibble on my feet and emerge with silky smooth feet. I was so excited, I let out a yelp and pressured my friend into going in with me. I was so excited about the idea, that I forgot to consider the reality of the situation...little creatures touching me...eeek! I am embarrassed to admit that in spite of the calm of the other patrons (old and young alike) I couldn't stop myself from screaming and shaking every time my feet touched the water. My friend and I caused quite a commotion and probably should have charged a fee for being the entertainment of the afternoon. I was involuntarily reacting...I couldn't stop my spasms, screams, and splashing...I literally felt like I was on Fear Factor or something. I think my feet spent about 10 collective seconds in the water and being serviced by the fish...and I had nightmares all night long. I usually try to post cute pictures of myself on my blog, but for this one the terror and fear in my eyes express my feelings about the experience...more so than any words I can write down...

Sand Bathing at Odaiba

It may appear from the pictures from the pictures above that I've been buried alive on a beach somewhere...however, this was actually a sand bath I enjoyed at the Odaiba Onsen over the weekend. My friend Sherry and I were wrapped in towels and then packed in hot sand to lay immobile for 15 minutes. My packer mentioned the heated sand would help to lessen any back pain and be relaxing. It was soothing and in spite of the intense heat, I found myself drifting off to sleep (I can sleep anywhere, I tell you). It was great, a fun experience and the warm shower afterwards was extremely refreshing. Definitely fun...just remember to remove any jewelry or metal on your body...that sand is soooo hot!!

Onsen Adventures: Part 2

As you many of you recall, I had serious doubts about going to onsen while here in Japan. In spite of my love for hot tubbing, I was totally freaked out about public nudity. As my assignment nears an end (only a little over a month to go) I suddenly felt the desire to conquer my fears and go for it. After serious consideration, and the helpful advice of my Japanese tutor (thanks, Tomoko-san) and trusted colleague (Morimoto-san), I decided to go to Odaiba Onsen over the weekend. In addition to a sudden and unexpected burst of courage, I was also persuaded by the description of all the things to do at this onsen. In addition to the traditional onsen, there were also large foot onsens, massage areas, lots of places to eat, a relaxation room, sand baths...and the opportunity to walk around in a yukata all day and take lots of pictures. I knew this was the place for me, and I was not disappointed. Determined to make the most of it, I participated in the foot onsen, traditional onsen, foot bath, had a shiatsu massage, a sand bath, and even dipped my feet into a pool of little fish for dead skin removal. Along the way, I ate some moderately good fun and took a long nap in the relaxation room...bliss...I loved it. I would definitely recommend it, and for more information click on...http://www009.upp.so-net.ne.jp/enjoytokyo/area/ooedo.html

Toilets in Japan: Take 2

In one of my earlier posts, I took pictures and discussed my shock at seeing a toilet of a completely different variety....completely grounded (often found in stations and outdoor facilities). I would be remiss, however, if I didn't revisit the subject one last time. In addition to those types of toilets, the ones most common in Japan are actually a huge upgrade to the ones in the States and other places I visited.

In addition to flushing, these toilets offer a wide array other other options to make your experience better. I won't go into the embarrassing details, but if you like a warm seat, warm water sprays, and even music while enjoying your private time...you're in luck!!

The Making of a Geisha: Before and After

As I've hinted in earlier posts, seeing the geisha in Kyoto wasn't enough for me. I had to be made into one. I convinced my skeptical and initially unwilling friend (thanks, Sherry) to undergo the transformation with me... We settled in for about an hour of hair and makeup and getting dressed up in the many tight and uncomfortable layers that make up a kimono. Once our transformation was complete, we spent nearly an hour walking around an amusement park in Kyoto to the true amusement of the park-goers. Imagine their surprise when they saw a tall black girl dressed this week in speaking loudly in American English...surprise surprise...enjoy!!

Temple and/or Shrine Etiquette

Japan is packed with shrines and temples...which may very well be the understatement of the day. On every corner, it seems you can find one or the other. I've been to some of the historic and my trip last weekend to Kyoto was no different. In the company canteen (aka cafeteria) I brought up a question to a co-worker..."How do you know the difference between a temple and a shrine." I'll admit I was a bit embarrassed to ask, but her vague response only led me to believe that maybe it just wasn't so obvious. Upon my return from my 45 minute lunch break (yes...45 minutes...a little crazy, if you ask me) I immediately looked it up online. I won't regurgitate the article here...the author did a great job of explaining the differences between the two as well as offering some advice in the way of etiquette. According to the article, my activities portrayed above in pictures fit right in with what I was supposed to be doing...what a relief!!

- Picture 1 and 2: Do say a prayer of thanks (those little paper/wooden things are prayers

offered by visitors)

- Picture 3: Do rinse your hands and mouth for purification

- Both pictures: Do take pictures where permitted

For the complete story...visit: http://www.thingsasian.com/stories-photos/2233

Spending Time With the Geisha in Kyoto

Everyone thinks of kimonos and geisha when they think of Japan. I loved Memoirs of a Geisha and so seeing some was one of the many things I wanted to do while here in Japan. As mentioned in the book, the training process to become a true geisha is long and arduous. Simply put, everyone you see in a kimono is not a geisha...haha. I've included a link to look up more information about the training involved and the denotations involved with identifying geisha from maikos (geisha in training) and even prostitutes. Seeing girls in kimonos is pretty common, I see them on the train and all over the place in Tokyo pretty frequently. In Kyoto, however, there were the maikos and real geisha. There is even a special street that you can go to see the geisha walking around.

During my short trip to Kyoto, I started off with simply admiring the girls and their pretty kimonos (see pictures above) to looking for those with full makeup (see also above) to actually having the desire to try on a kimono and be transformed myself. I will post pictures of my personal transformation soon...stay tuned!!

For more information, refer to: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geisha