Day 1: Tokyo's Cityscape

Hello Everyone!

We landed in Tokyo, Japan earlier today. This place is absolutely beautiful. It's amazing to me how different everything is here. We all know that the language is different, but it's the little nuances of life that have had me rolling. Coca-Cola, an American staple, is here as well. But Diet Coke isn't Diet Coke, it's "Coca-Cola Light!"

The most amazing building I have ever stepped foot in is easily the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower! It's in the heart of Tokyo, and towers 53 stories in the air. At 781 feet tall, it's one of the tallest skyscrapers in Tokyo. What makes this building so incredible, in addition to the beauty of its steel and glass frame, is the facilities inside of it, and the views from atop it.

Roppongi Hills Mori Tower was chosen as one of the best new skyscrapers of the year 2003 in the Emporis Skyscraper Awards. Its houses 3 floors of malls, with shops, cafes, restaurants, and theatres, are used by thousands of people every day. The inside is brightly painted, and reflects light throughout the entire building. Lights around the centre of the building mimic a graphic equalizer moving to the hythm of music. Because of its round interior shape, you can see the city from all 360 degrees. On the 52nd floor, Tokyo City View, as the observation deck is called, offers fine day and night time viewing of the cityscape. On the 54th floor, Tokyo Sky Deck, an open air viewing area, offers stunning views of the city. On the 50th floor, Roppongi Academy Hills features a school, library, cultural center, and conference center. The building was developed for a local wealthy land owner, Mr. Mori. The building was a combination of architects and engineering firms collaborating together. The primary architectural firms were The Jerde Partnership and Mori Building Architects and Engineers Company.

The building is one of the most amazing spectacles I have seen before. The photos do not do it justice, as I’m sure is the case with most architectural masterpieces. If you are ever in Japan, and have the opportunity to lose a day in a shopping center (and you will lose the entire day), I highly recommend that you see the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, and stay away from these guys!
I’m off to bed now, as we have a long day ahead of us tomorrow! We’re going to the beach…or at least, a synthetic one!

Matt