Lanterns. Lots of 'em

Tokyo: Gadgets and Gismos, Fads and Fashions

---

November 14th 2007
My next stop was Tokyo, a most fascinating city with a dual nature. On one side it blends tradition, history and ceremony, with it's geishas, tea ceremonies, samurais and temples. On the other, it's a futuristic cyber-city with neon skyscrapers, intelligent toilets and ultramodern concept cars. I was hoping for some culture shock here, and I certainly got it! One of the first things I noticed wa ... read more

Asia » Japan » Tokyo

---

In 1603, a Tokugawa shogunate (military dictatorship) ushered in a long period of isolation from foreign influence in order to secure its power. For 250 years this policy enabled Japan to enjoy stability and a flowering of its indigenous culture. Fol... ... read more