Yukata? But I don`t even know you!

Now into my second day of class, I`m feeling much more acclimated to life and a daily routine. I secured my monthly pass between Ichigaya and Kudanshita and feel good about finding some really good restaurants for lunch in Chiyoda-ku. As each day passes, I`m learning more and more about the city itself and how to navigate it.

After class, I headed out with two of my classmates / housemates to the Tokyo Dome. The Toyko Dome, home to Tokyo`s major baseball team, is also part amusement park, part shopping area, part dining, and all awesome. We rode the "Thunder Dolphin" roller coaster, which took us all around the Tokyo Dome and provided for some great 360 degree viewing of the city. We also checked out some of the shops and surrounding areas.

One of the things that you really become accustomed to is the idea of "when in Rome" when it comes to social customs, etiquiette, and - of course - dining. While at Tokyo Dome, I had the option of stopping for several different kinds of food: American, Italian, Fast Food, etc. However, I decided to try octopus dumpling balls for a snack today. Incidentially, it was pretty good! That and a Suntory melon soda, and I found myself pretty satisfied. I don`t know that I would have reached for that kind of snack one week ago, but it felt like the right choice today!

I also went to get my Yukata (summer kimono) after class today in preparation for the big summer festival on the 21st - Marine Day. The Yukata is mine to keep and wear around the guest house, after a shower, or even around town if I felt really brave. I`ll be sure to take a photo the next time that I have it on, although it can be very complex at first to tie all of the required knots.

Tomorrow, we head out as a group after class to Harajuku and Shibuya. Having walked around once before, I hope to explore it a little more thoroughly and take plenty of photos of the adventure.

Ja ne!