Last Day in Japan

I began my final day in Japan with a solid run in the morning. I went "exploring"... it takes a lot longer to find your way after being lost on foot vs a bike. My "45 minute" run turned into 1.5 hours after I got out a bit further than I realized and wasn't totally sure I was headed in the right direction on the way back. It was awesome though. I saw some very cool small towns and even a little "countryside". You know you are far out there when you can't see the skyscrapers anymore - which I used as a landmark :)

When I got back I showered up and grabbed a quick bite to go. Today's self-guided itinerary took me to north Tokyo, Ueno Station. I spent about 6 hours strolling the streets in the Asakusa district which included Senso-ji Temple - Tokyo's most important buddist temple. I took a long way through some back streets to Ueno Park where I pretty much strolled leisurely through small temples, shrines, pagoda, statues, a zoo, and Shinobazu pond. The Toko National Museum and National Art Museum are here too, but I was enjoying the 65 degree sun way too much to go inside. After returning to Omiya, I decided to treat myself to the best sushi on earth. I've been there 3 times and they recognized me (I kind of stand out a bit at 6'2" with light hair). I ordered a sampler, then "Sadie" started helping me order. He's a 60 year old dude that thought it was hilarious to have me try stuff. We became good friends over 2 hours and we stuffed ourselves with fish and sake. Mmmmmmm.