Tharen vs Tokyo: On My Own

Dave has to work today. I guess it was bound to happen. It's why we are here after all.

I feel I'm ready. I've picked a location that isn't too complicated by bus. But enough to prove I can do it.

I take the bus. At my stop, I take a side trip to get my Starbucks! I laugh at the 'American' labelled food that I've never seen myself...

Coffee in hand I head for the Tokyo Tower. Similar to the Eiffel tower, but in Tokyo. And I think shorter....

But what's that...? Oooh. I'm gonna go there first....

Love the history within the future city look.

Oh good. A sign to show me where to go. In case I'm lost. Hahaha. Nope. Didn't help.

Loved seeing all these people sitting in the shade to sketch the building. Made me wish I had a sketch set too. That would have been awesome!

I find a shady spot to pull out my travel books to see where I am at. What this lovely place is! It's called Zojo-ji. The family temple of the Tokugawa clan. Dating from 1393. Sadly it's all rebuilt having been through fire three times. But still amazing to look at. Then I read that the gateway is from 1612. It's the oldest wooden structure in Tokyo. Well I didn't even go in that way! So back out I went!

I crossed the road for a better view and saw this. You press it for the crosswalk if you need a longer light. Cool!

Across the street I'm distracted again by a small park that's so pretty. And I see this area. It's a smoking area. Smoking is prohibited all over the place. Signs on the sidewalk and everything. So is flicking cigarette butts! So they have areas to smoke. This is the nicest one I've seen so far.

Back to the ancient gate. They are doing some work on it, but still stunning.

Then I go into the ...???? I take my time and say some prayers and have some good thinking time.

Then in trying to find my way to the back of the grounds, I find myself in a park beside.

Another beautiful gateway.

I love the pictures to show they don't want your dog peeing on the gate. Good thinking!

View of the tower I will eventually get to...

The park is huge. And has so many paths and areas to rest or relax. Then I find this.

Later I walk by this huge tree that has poles holding up branches. Obviously an important tree.

The birds playing in the water were fun to watch.

I stop for a 'cold pop'. Because vending machines are everywhere! And I see this photo of Tommy Lee Jones beside this drink....? Um...okay.... So I take a picture. Why not?

Then I see this sign. Yup. I understand that vicious dogs walk this park and are ready to attack at any time!! Or maybe just to keep your dog on the leash at all times.