I love this quote; it's so true. Thanks for a great report. I've only been to Tokyo once, but I can't wait to go back and visit other parts of the country as well.

You mention eating at the large department stores in Tokyo. I found this to be the best way to have lunch as almost every neighborhood seems to have a grouping of department stores and usually on the top floor there are several restaurants. The food is always good and reasonably priced and you get to watch the locals have lunch.

The fish market in Tokyo was a highlight for me, as well. We were taking many, many pictures and befriended quite a few vendors.

I enjoyed your story about your guide on Miyajima Island. Our cultural instincts often tell us to beware of strangers offering help - this doesn't seem to be a problem in Japan, ever.

Born, OK. But how did they keep someone from dying there?!

Thanks again for an enjoyable report.