After lots of I’s we’re finally on to the J’s – and today J is for Japan, and a fascinating cruise that Mrs C and I took in the summer of 2014 around the northern island of Hokkaido (also visiting the little town of Korsakov in Sakhalin, Russia). But the holiday started with three full days visiting Tokyo – which we couldn’t have done without our personal guide because the lack of English translations – or indeed any translations – makes it very difficult to navigate.

So, what do you think of, when you think of Tokyo? Maybe this:

Sushi was one of the things we were both fearing the most about Japan as neither of us is a fan. However, it wasn’t horrible, so we took that as a bonus! Whilst we’re on the subject of food and drink:

We did the traditional tea ceremony; not like any other tea we’ve tasted. It comes with its full set of rules and instructions

But it was all in the beautiful setting of the Hamarikyu Gardens:

where urban sprawl and rural tranquillity rub shoulders

Talking of urban sprawl, some of those skyscrapers are surprisingly decorative:

Modern architecture on the indoors can be fascinating too

Perhaps it’s at its most interesting where it stands side by side with lowrise buildings

Views from the top are of course breathtaking

This was from our hotel bedroom:

And at night:

However, did you know that Tokyo could also look like this?

This is old Tokyo.

There’s not much of it left, sadly.

The fishmarket is a big attraction

To be honest we found it rather gruesome!

Time to move on, I think. By the way, could you work your way through this tube network?

Plus… who’s driving this train?

Who knew that a Tokyo train would take you here?

Not even Disneyland! This is an area called Daina, with lots of shops and restaurants… and the Statue of Liberty!

Temples. There are a few but perhaps not as many as you might expect. This is the Meiji Shrine

The Tokyo National Museum is also a tremendous place, filled with excellent artworks like this Imari Jar

and this noble general

and these cute Imari rabbits.

Sadly, this didn’t age well

but primarily, Tokyo is full of surprises. Like square watermelons

Unmentionable puppets

and golden sperm

A place of constant wonder!

Thanks for joining me on this little trip around Tokyo! Next blog will be another look at some old theatre shows from July to October 1981. Stay safe!