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Harajuku
 Harajuku
has lost most of the avant garde culture which gave the world seemingly
uniformed red hair punks and uncomprehensible fashion. Once in a while,
if you are lucky, you can still see an eccentrically dressed person
harking back to the lost era, but compared to 10 years ago, the punch
has been lost. The place is now filled with students from other parts
of Japan on school field trips. The area itself is slowly turning upmarket,
especially along the nearby Omotesando.
If you feel that you have to see it before it disappear forever from
the face of Earth, see it now. In 5 years time, all traces of the Harajuku
we knew would be gone forever.
Meiji Temple
 Meiji
Temple is a short walk from Harajuku station. This temple is a replica
of the original 1920 one, which was destroyed in WW2. However, the recontruction
is a faithful one. The large "torii", or gate at the entrance was made
with cypress timber from Taiwan.
Meji Temple is a popular place of worship during major traditional festivals
such as the New Year.  It
is also a popular photo spot for newly wed couples and on auspicious
days, there is every possibility of catching sight of a Japanese couple
in traditional Japanese wedding dress.
There are 2 attractions in the temple ground. One is the Gyoen Garden,
which at 300 yen per person, provides some value for money. Visit the
garden in June when the iris are in bloom.
On the other hand, we have the treasure museum, which displays a collection
of items from the emperor and empress life. Entrance is 500 yen per
person. Never been inside, and never heard anyone saying it is good...
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