TOURIST TUESDAY: DAY THREE HARAJUKU DAY AND SHIBUYA NIGHT

Jarvis was awake, and bouncing on the bed, way too early. Justin's hungry tummy got us up and out early. Too early for Japan, as most places do not open until at least 10am. 

From breakfast it was a short walk to Meiji Jingu (Meiji Shrine), just past the Harajuku Station. It is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified souls of Emperor Meiji (d.1912) and Empress Shoken (d.1914). It is the most important and popular Shinto shrine in Tokyo, hosting many festivals and ceremonies.

An oasis in the heart of modern Tokyo, the Shrine is sheltered by gardens and trees.

There is the Inner Garden, with the main shrine buildings; and the Outer Garden, with sports arenas and the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery. The shrine grounds are entered through two of Japan's largest torii (shrine gates), made of beautiful cypress wood more than 1,700 years old.

(All of the above information I got from Lonely Planet Tokyo)

I really really hope that the person who stole our sling a few years ago is enjoying it. 

For Jarvis it meant a space to run and play. He loved the 'gardens'. After wandering for ages our tummies beckoned and it was off to find food. 

A quick stop for some vintage shopping, and lollies for Jarvis.

Everyone vintage shops in a mask...don't they?

Then we just wandered the back streets of Harajuku until we found a place that took our fancy for lunch. No idea what we ordered or ate, but it was delicious.

I love wandering the backstreets of different countries. 

After lunch, I found my idea of heaven on holidays. It was a Hairdressing College just five minute walk from where we where staying. So while, Justin took Jarvis back for a nap, I got a free shampoo and blow dry. It was relaxing and funny all rolled into one. One by one, about twelve of the students came over to have a turn to blow dry my hair. I think they each just wanted to touch it. All of them were so nice, I got so many compliments on how soft, how pretty, and how beautiful my hair was, not only did clean hair make me feel good, I certainly got enough compliments to boost my ego for ages.

If you can find this building in Harajuku, you can get your hair done for free. 

I went back to the room feeling great. So while Jarvis napped I read and napped and Justin went off to buy a new (to him) vintage camera. In the end Jarvis napped for five hours. I had thought the day before was exhausting for him.

After five hours we woke him, (we were worried he would not sleep that night), and walked up to the Harajuku train station and caught the train to Shibuya Station. Just outside the station is the famous crossing. When the lights turn red at this busy junction, they all turn red at the same time in every direction. Traffic stops completely and pedestrians surge into the intersection from all sides, people spilling out every where and cross what is rumoured to be the world’s busiest intersection. It is famously known as ‘The Scramble’.

After crossing it was time for more Japanese noodles. Then back to the crossing where a guy was giving away free hugs, and then on to the train back to Harajuku.

I think he liked his free hug. 

Family portrait of the day was taken at Meiji Jingu. Thanks random other tourist.