What's going down in Japan?

[def]

Some pics are blurry (blame the iPhone) but here is a little review of toy life in Japan.

First, here are pics at the supermarket. Supermarkets in Japan always have a pile of toys integrated into the junk food lane (yes, toys are junk food!) Usually it's nothing too outrageous, but this store in Hokkaido had its own display case.

In this pic, you can see some of the popular toys, the miniature plastic versions of regular foods, pancakes and the such, plus some Hello Kitty at the bottom.

Here is a different supermarket, with some mini Daia-Blocks sets on sale, ala the old Kabaya sets. I've held off on buying one, since they're overly simplified, but I'll probably pick one up since they're under ¥200.

Later on, I used the toilet at a game center (Japanese for 5 floor arcade) where the magic claw games were all about the sexy dolls. They are of some interest, but I don't have any in the house... I guess they make me feel weird still, though they're still of interest.

More images available on request

[Big Cam]

I see Shin Chan in picture number 3!!

My longtime childhood friend moved to Spain after college and he introduced me to that show.

[Modulex Guy]

Japan is one of these places I should not go to just for the fact that I would spend a fortune there if I was to go. I'd buy everything I would see.

Seriously though I'd love to go to Japan one day, hopefully soon.

[ZO6]

I am definitely going to Japan at some point in my life (preferably sooner than later). I fell in love with Asian Cinema a number of years ago and I've become obsessed with Japan and Korea since then. I find Japan particularly attractive and I've been learning the language for two years now (I'm still horrible though ) It's neat seeing pictures of every day local shops, thanks!

[RileyC]

So whats the Lego selection like over there? Im going to Japan in a few months and would love to pick up a bit with spending money

[def]

So whats the Lego selection like over there? Im going to Japan in a few months and would love to pick up a bit with spending money

Lego is, this year, at a decent price. But, I buy most of mine at amazon. You can check general availability here. In Japan, you can pay at convenience stores without a credit card, so you could have it delivered to your hotel, probably.

While you're in Japan, check out this place though http://www.clickbrick.jp/ The price is Toys R Us level, but the selection is great. Kind of like a Lego boutique store. I'll be posting a review of the store shortly so you (and everyone) can get a better idea.