Nippori and Tsukudani

I'm going through some photos that I took last month, and post some gems before they are forgotten.

During the Yamathon, I passed this interesting area in Nippori that had all sorts of old shops full of character. One of the shops sold tsukudani.  I stopped to take photos, as one of our group had to buy some.

I've had this before in many Japanese meals and wasn't exactly sure what it was.  It's got strong flavor and after reading the description in Wikipedia, it may have a cousin in Philippine cuisine, bagoong.

There was this interesting senbei shop across the street.

Yamathon Part 2

I stuck it out with the TIPsies from Harajuku to Ueno. About half way around the Yamanote or about 13 or 14 miles. Along the way, I saw many interesting things. Several deserve a return visit. Here are some of my favorites.

The first photo is the Yamonote map located above the ticket machines at Harajuku Station. It's quite a challenge to walk all 29-stations. If you ride the train, it takes about one hour!

This pachinko sign is located between Yoyogi and Shnijuku Station.  It looks a little decrepit during the day but it must be quite a sight when its lit up at night... I wonder when there will be enough power from TEPCO to light up signs like this without the fear of brown outs?

This awesome mural of the works of Toei Animation is located neear Takadanobaba station.  Astro (or Atom) Boy features prominently!

This happi coat was hanging inside the window of a house near Nishi-Nippori.

Chisai (tiny) taiyaki! or delicious Yamathon snack break!

Several weeks ago, I joined friends walking for Oxfam in the Yamathon.  We had loads of fun walking along the Yamanote line tracks and exploring along the way.  The team entry fee of ¥6,000 went to the 11 March earthquake relief effort so our effort was also backed with yen for the cause! 

Along the the way, I spotted this Taiyaki vendor at Otsuka station and had to purchase a small mix bag (16 pieces for ¥525) to share... Flavors included azuki (red bean), chocolate, caramel, banana, custard...

We passed over the Yamanote line several times along the route. At this location, the tracks were lined with beautiful cherry blossoms!