We are in Tokyo now but I thought I’d share some last photos from Toyama and Takaoka
Most of the manhole covers in Toyama were painted. Is there a more generic name these days? Where did “manhole” come from anyway?

School zone. Beware of speedy kids.


A typical street in Toyama.

What to drink? Why not non-alcoholic fermented rice drink? From the fermented rice drink van. Amazake is what is produced in the first step to making sake. Delicious. So good, and non alcoholic that Grubb wanted to share mine.


Hey, you can get information for free!

In the red light district of Toyama. What happens there never did.

Suburban Toyama

Sign at a tram stop. Maybe it’s “don’t forget your ticket”? Google translate says: When you come to the cycling track, do not enter the track, but cross the back step.

In Takaoka, showing off their metal casting skills.

Interesting house in Takaoka

Takaoka. Golden rooster-dragon on the bridge. There was another one on the other side. Protecting the entrance to the neighborhood?

Taken from the Shinkansen on the Toyama to Tokyo ride.


That woman in metal looks very western
Yes she does! I wondered about that.