Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Lost in translation?

This is the Hyatt Hotel visible from Shinjuku. The three towers were made famous as the building where the film 'Lost in Translation' is set.
Regardless, it's an amazing sight visible from West Shinjuku.
I was very luck that I had these buildings pointed out for me on a guided tour of Shinjuku, which was run by volunteers for FREE by Tokyo Tourist Information (check their website - they/re in the Tokyo Prefectural Buildings. There are two free observation towers there too - well worth visiting, and again FREE!)
There was an older woman, who was born in the area, and a trainee volunteer tour guide - younger with excellent English.
She told wonderful stories that from her mother who lived in the old parts of Shinjuku. Every few steps was a piece of history, and both guides made the point that Tokyo, and especially Shinjuku, are all being constantly renewed and rebuilt. Apparently, everything is being rebuilt to become earthquake proof as everyone fears a big earthquake is on the way. I found that pretty scary to think about...

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