Day 3

Today it only rained once. All. Day. Long.

I kicked off the morning trying to find the Metro station. After going in circles like a confused compass, I consoled myself with the ever-comforting thought: "The journey is the destination." Eventually, I did succeed—because persistence is my middle name (or at least that's what I told myself).

First stop: Harajuku. Ah yes, Takeshita Street, the epicenter of all things eccentric and teen. Imagine a burst of color, a dash of kitsch, and a sprinkle of "What on earth are they wearing?" Crowds of Gothic Lolitas, Japanese punks, and Decora fans turn the street into their own personal runway. There were even cafés where you could cuddle with pigs or puppies, which sounds adorable in theory… but the animals looked more “tired influencer” than “happy snuggler.”

Next, I strolled through the magnificent Yoyogi Park, making my way to the Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Shoken. The setting was peaceful and majestic, and there were beautifully dressed Japanese families with their newborns heading into a special building. I’m assuming it was some sort of baby blessing—possibly Japan’s answer to a christening, minus the cross and holy water.

From there, it was off to Shibuya’s famous scramble crossing. It’s like a pedestrian flash mob. You stand there, waiting for the light, and then—BOOM—everyone runs in all directions at once, umbrellas included today. It’s absolute chaos, but if you watch from above, it’s strangely mesmerizing.

By this point, my stomach was staging a rebellion. Google Search was promptly asked for "good sashimi nearby," and, lo and behold, it delivered a promising spot. Judging by the long line outside, it had to be good. Unfortunately, the wait was a bit too long, but the sashimi absolutely worth it. As for mastering the art of slurping noodles and not blowing my nose in public? Let’s just say I’m still in the beginner phase.