Ginza

November 3rd (I think)

Today we went to the Ginza in Central Tokyo. This was named after the silver mint which was here from 1612 and gave the area its name 'silver place' but the whole area was burnt in 1872. The government employed an English architect to rebuild it. Today this is where all the high end international stores have their principal outlets. Also there are many striking new architectural buildings.

In the afternoon we went to see a master kimono lady who demonstrated how to put on a kimono. I had not realised how many layers there are and it is very important that the left side is on top. The right is only on top on corpses.

Impressive modern buildings in Ginza

As well older style buildings.

Window displays. Very important and window dressers are highly paid.

Exclusive boutiques

Over the top wig.

Coicorin or love cat in front of Le cafe Doutor. Pat it on the head to find a lost love.

Street lamps in Ginza

The Shoe shine person outside an exclusive department store, Takashimaya. It was opposite the kimono lady's premises.

Nov 3rd is a public holiday, Culture Day to promote culture and the Arts. These children are probably off to the Shinto shrine. At 3,5 and 7 years there are Shinto ceremonies to celebrate the good health and growth of children.

A seven year old girl came to show Haruka and Showa the kimono bought from them.

Haruka demonstrates how to put on a kimono.

A little gift from Showa for each of us. The bag is made from part of a recycled kimono. Japanese are frugal.

Other handmade gifts exchanged with new Japanese friends.