Around The World In 80 Waves

A bit like Bill Murray’s character in the movie Lost in translation I am finding the whole process of being a Geijin in Tokyo somewhat baffling.

Communication is almost impossible for me unless the person I am speaking to has any grasp of English.

Even then making a simple purchase or responding to a basic question seems to be beyond myself and the other party at times.

It is no excuse for not diving into things while I am here though, so as usual when in a new city I decide to walk around on foot for a bit to get a better grasp of the lay of the land.

To get things started I head for the easiest landmark to find, which is known as the Sky Tree. It is a broadcasting, restaurant, and observation tower located in the Sumida area of the city.

It is easy to find because at 634 metres it is the tallest structure in Japan and the second tallest in the world behind the Burj Khalifa, so you just look up. It is very impressive but I don’t feel like visiting the viewing platforms today so can’t tell you what the view is like.

A short stroll along the bank of the Sumida-gawa river takes me to Ryogoku, which is the centre of the sumo universe.

It is where the Kokugikan sumo stadium you see here, many sumo stables and the chanko restaurants where the wrestlers dine can be found.

Until the beginning of the 20th century, sumo tournaments were held outdoors at shrines and temples but the big crowds demanded a permanent home. Sadly there are not any tournaments being held in the city while I am here so I will not get a chance to enjoy this very Japanese spectacle.

I walk around for a bit further but because my feet are killing me I seek the solace of a British style pub where I hope to at least be able to communicate. Whilst in there I have great chat with two blokes from Seattle called Keith & Spencer who are gearing up for their return home. They tell me I should really check out Akihabara, which is not too far away.