Skytree Stories

- An excerpt from my first day in Tokyo; sharing my learnings & perspective as a female solo traveller in Japan. The cold autumn breeze hugs me, as I'm about to take on the day. I can hear the faint sounds of birds chirping at a distance. It's the sound of the signal from the nearest pedestrian crossing. There are mini pumpkin-shaped structures kept around the houses; preparations for Halloween, I guess. There is a fruit shop near my hostel and as I step on to the road, observing the owner as he arranges the goods, a group of kids in uniforms run past me. The day has begun. Walking down the road, deeply engrossed in figuring out my route with the help of Google Maps, I look up to check if I took the correct turn. Wide-eyed, I find myself standing in front of the majestic Skytree - basking in the sun with all its glory. The metallic tower of brilliance - so high and mighty, looks like it could lead me to heaven. Dumbfounded by its sheer existence, I stop and take out my phone, hoping to capture its beauty. *Crash* Before I know, an old man on his bicycle bumps into me. Yes, I am that ignorant of a tourist! With the bucket-hat still intact and a basket filled with groceries, he looks at me, startled. Flustered, I bow saying "Gomennasai." His startled eyes now light up. There is a soft smile on his crinkled face as he gives me a gentle bow, gets back on his bicycle and leaves. "Lesson 1 - be aware of your surroundings." "So,... where was I?" I look at my phone, get back into my zone, imagine myself as the one who has been chosen to capture the beauty of Skytree and sway my body in every possible manner to get the perfect shot, all the while ensuring not to bump into another person or God forbid, the same old man! Some passersby, even look at my phone trying to figure out what is it that I am trying to click with such dedication! After 3 to 4 clicks, I scroll and try to find the perfect picture. "Nah! Will have to try again on my way back."