Do words exist that accurately describe Tokyo? If they do, they are probably Japanese words with no translation into English. I have tried explaining to people what it's like. They look at me with confusion and the polite nod that means "I'm acknowledging that you're talking but I don't really understand what you are trying to say". My description of this place comes out flat, not nearly as rich and dimensional as the actual experience.
We stayed at the Grand Hyatt in Roppongi on the 10th floor. We had smoked salmon, salad, cereal, fresh fruit and cappuccino for breakfast. Thom and I tried to get some sight seeing in but most days were spent either sleeping, eating or preparing for the evening's festivities. Preparation consisted of Thom drinking beer and watching Japanese television while Aiko and I messed with our hair and makeup for hours.
The first night was the premiere of Dark Shadows directed by Tim Burton. Thom and I were lucky enough to walk the red carpet and annoy dozens of photographers. It was windy and cold but worth it. We watched Johnny and Tim do interviews, shake hands and sign autographs for fans dressed up like Barnabas and Angélique.
From that point, it turns into a blur: sake, whiskey, multiple trips to toy shops, glitter, lots of black lacy polyester clothing, tears, more whiskey, potatoes, babies, vampires, corsets, bunny ears, samurai, chanting, ramen, eye balls, Japanese language lessons, crispy pizza, kittens, monkeys, giant crabs, maids, glow sticks, facials, falls, Frank Zappa and Green Gargantua at Tokyo Tower.
It was quite an experience. Thank you to all my friends.
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| Photo by Derek Frey |
