Message from jedwards
Our last full day in Tokyo began with a visit to the Meiji Shrine. This heavily wooded shrine was absolutely beautiful - approximately 170,000 trees had been planted in dedication to the Emperor Meiji. As the group approached the entrance to the shrine, most of us noted the landscape worker sweeping leaves with as much art and precision as anyone who takes pride in their work. Some of us took our time looking around the shrine and the grounds around it, while others took a needed break for refreshments and bathroom runs - our last day in Tokyo seemed to be the hottest and the humidity was difficult to escape from. In leaving the shrine, a few of us were reminded that it was rebuilt after being destroyed by fire-bombs during WWII.
Next we headed over to Harajyuku Street and shopping district. There you could see Japanese youth dressed in some of the most unusual outfits. The focal point is Japanese teenage culture, and its side streets are lined with boutiques, trendy shops, and used clothes for the most fashion conscious. I decided to venture off to one of these side streets and was amazed by the bright colors, music, and anime costumes everywhere I looked. I thought I would buy myself a top at one of the boutiques, but was refused when I wanted to try the article of clothing on. This happened three more times, and in my frustration I asked the sales clerk, "Is it because Im an American?" She simply replied with an extended arm and hand, "No try on." Needless to say I didn't walk out of any boutique with an article of clothing in my hands.
Surprisingly, the group headed off to lunch for a little Italian - no complaints from me 
- as well as our closing session. It was certainly difficult to believe we had spend already three weeks together! After some well deserved "thank you's" and the gracious gifts handout out by Miranda and Venus, we set out for our last destination as a group before venturing off on our own - Shibuya.
This popular shopping district is a "born-to-shopper's" dream, but nightmare for those who can't stomach another department store, or trendy boutique. I was truly amazed at how populated this area was for a Thursday afternoon. Despite the hectic nature of the area, people still managed to cross the street using three different angles and in an orderly fashion. Some group members headed off to their next adventure immediately- the Kabuki Theater. Others visited the Edo Museum. Myself, Betse, Judi, Anna, Mimi, Christina, and Heather tackled the crowds, shops, and later dinner.
What better way to celebrate a last evening together in Japan, is to go to a Karaoke Bar. Frank, Mimi, Anna, Heather, John Y., Richard, Ray, Judy, Christina, Kevin, Venus, and myself headed back to the Shibuya area and sang and danced to our content (or until the beer and alloted time ran out). Some of us tried to "recreate" the evening before in the Roppongi area and find another Japanese rock band, but we left the area without success of finding one. Still it was an evening worth remembering, and a great way to end the trip.
Final thoughts (for our last day): Not a lot was said in our closing session of Japan, but I think it goes without saying that Clay, Ray, Miranda, and Venus made this trip the success that it was. Thank you to Miranda and Venus for the meticulously organized travel itinerary - it seemed like no stone was left unturned! Thank you to Ray for offering his knowledgeable expertise in Japanese history and culture. Finally, a big thanks to Clay - your passion for Asian studies is contagious.