With some time before the train departs might as well take a look around. Unfortunately, most of the shops are closed at this time of the morning. Like alot of places, they may not open till 10:00am
Most are small shops that occupy the the many stalls that constitutes a large majority of the real estate. Some areas have a specific theme like produce or dry goods but are a mix of different retailers. Some of the produce vendors sell peeled fresh fruit on sticks like pineapple and melons..
Oddly, this doner kabob place is open for business already. These are similar to what most of us know as a gyro. Meat is sliced off the big rotating vertical spit and placed onto a pita bread with dressing and vegetables. I used to see a number of these places in Akihabara. However, the corner they used to work on now has a building on what used to be an empty lot.
Shops are situated right under the tracks as seen in the underpass. As you stroll along, you will see that most of these shops are right under the rails. I guess they dont mind the rumbling of the passing trains over head. Or the structures are solid enough to take the punishment.
Sky Tree is vixible through out much of Tokyo. Ueno is pretty close so its no surprise that we see it at some point.
I have to head back to catch my train. They are not open yet but there are a number of pachinko parlors. Theres alot of places selling shoes and clothing. This usually doesnt catch my eye since I dont normally shop for clothes when on vacation.
I am back to Ueno after a day trip to Kusatsu. The place has come alive as some workers are done at work for the day. The restaurants and pachinko palaces light up with neon and patrons when the sun sets.
At the same time, alot of the stores selling fresh produce and meats begin to close. The transformation begins when the sun sets and people begin to get off work.
For some reason, I went over to Asakusa. Its nearby, only 2 subway stations away. If you get out at the correct exit, you will surface next to the Sumida River. At this location, its a great vantage point for viewing Sky Tree.
The main draw if Asakusa, depending on who you ask, is either Nakamise Dori or Sensoji Temple. The main entrance to both attractions is this gate with the giant red paper lantern hanging in the gate.
This is Nakamise Dori. Its lined with souvenir shops, sembei purveyors, and others who sell dorayaki and little cream filled cakes shaped in a number of different recognizable characters. I didnt expect the shops to be open so I wasnt disappointed to see this. At the far end is the temple. Some festivals are held here during the summer.
