Our team covers the western section of Tokyo. Martin and I work in three communities along the Chuo train line that runs from central Tokyo to the west: Kunitachi, Tachikawa, and Hachioji. When volunteers come to Tokyo to work with the 5 minute English ministry, if they are assigned to us, we will take them to these three communities.

The pictures I am sharing with you this week were taken in Hachioji. This view from the train station, shows the downtown business district.

On the same overpass, there was a universal sight; Cub Scouts raising money. For your donation you received a small red feather.

The small street restaurants are fun places to visit. This couple is preparing tako yaki, a flour ball stuffed with octopus. They also make a delicious custard pastry that is shaped like a fish. The Japanese are very friendly and enjoy sharing their culture.

We really enjoy cantaloupe but decided that we would pass on this one. If you notice, the price says 4980 yen. With today's currency exchange rate, the cost is about $55.00. No more cantaloupe! This is certainly an affirmation that Japan is the most expensive place in the world to live.


In the states we have parking lots for cars; here is one of the many bicycle parking lots that you see throughout Japan.