Cosplay Kiddies

Spending a weekend in Tokyo for Fiona's birthday, we met up with our Mie friends Marina and Lauren for goth-watching in Harajuku, followed by a yummy organic lunch. The goth girls weren't out in force, but there were a couple of prize specimens.

Lucky Cats

We also visited a small temple called Gotokuji out in the suburbs, in search of this shrine to Maneki-neko (the lucky waving cats you see everywhere in Japan, and China, and I believe Korea). The temple was beautiful, and the cats didn't disappoint.

More Fabulous Food

Fiona's birthday in Tokyo included a meal at Sen, a fabulous shojin-ryori style vegetarian place in the suburbs. As you can see, it was exquisitely presented; unfortunately, you can't share in the deliciousness.

Fiona's Birthday

On the evening of Fiona's birthday, we had an enkai with an adult class that both Fiona and Sam have taught. They were very sweet, and even bought Fiona a present that looked like baby clothes but turned out to be hand-towels. (They were just being cheeky; Fiona's initial consternation is clear in the picture.) Then, we went to Tsuki no Niwa for a great meal with fellow JETs and some J-teachers as well. Much merriment was had.