No one needed the wake up call that rang at 7.30. They were already up and ready for the day. The day began with a delicious breakfast in the hotel. We soon boarded our private bus and began our dayfs sightseeing.
Our first stop was Asakusa Kannon Temple, where we shopped for Japanese souvenirs and enjoyed the ambience of the Buddhist Temple. Our guide explained the difference between temples and shrines. Temples belong to the Buddhist belief and shrines to the Shinto belief. Japanese people believe in both!
Next we were off to the Imperial Gardens which is where the Emporer and his family live. We couldnft go inside, but enjoyed seeing the beautiful cherry blossoms on the outside and the guards.
After a delicious Japanese style lunch (where everyone braved and enjoyed the food) we visited the most beautiful Meiji Shrine. There are over 1700 trees surrounding the shrine which have all been donated by the public. We were fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of a Shinto wedding and a gorgeous bride in her kimono. Then, with exceptional timing, we proceeded to witness a traditional Shinto prayer ceremony.
We eclimbedf the Town Hall building (45 floors) to see as much of Tokyo as possible through the clouds. Meghan bought an umbrella and then we were off to our last stopc
c an origami paper shop and Toy Park. The Toy Park included four floors of toys! We split into our groups: Team Tebbutt (Sophie, Helen, Brook, Meghan), Team Gracia (Nick, Wesley, Matthew) and Team Stock (Adam, Pat, Charlie). Everyone was pretty much exhausted by the time we boarded the coach for the final time.
It was a busy day, typical gJapanese Styleh, where we saw as much of Tokyo as possible. Now, for a rest in the hotel for Teams Gracia and Stock, whilst Team Tebbutt have worked hard as journalists to make this journal.
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