The Adventures of Alex: Japan...The Last Day

Today was our last day in Japan, but it was jammed-packed with culture and fun! We spent the day touring Kyoto and visited the Golden Palace, a Samurai Castle and a Buddhist Temple.

It was amazing to see the contrast of rich Japanese architecture surrounded by peaceful lakes and waterfalls at the Golden Palace. It is hard to believe that the structure is covered with REAL gold!

We really enjoyed testing the squeaky floors at the Samurai Castle (intentionally invented to prevent stealthy ninja's from assassinating the Shogun).

It was hard to top the Buddhist Temple with 1,001 statues of Buddha. We learned about the tenants of the Buddhist religion and had fun dancing in the courtyard.

Our team spent the rest of the day at two different shopping areas, picking up gifts for our family and friends. We ALL stocked up on Hichu (aka the best candy known to man).

After a long day of tours and power shopping, we enjoyed Korean barbecue as our last supper. We thought our Japanese fun was over until our guide Chieko took us upstairs for the big finale of our trip... KARAOKE!!!!! Our team had so much fun rocking out to Michael Jackson, Spice Girls, Backstreet Boys and Journey. I bet Japan is thankful for sound proof walls ; )

Our last day was bittersweet. We all loved our time here and have come to appreciate the Japanese culture. But, we are all anxious to see our families and post all our pictures on Facebook : ) So stay tuned!

In true Jay Leno fashion, here is the team's Top Ten Japanese experiences! Drum roll please....

10. The Food We learned all about the art of eating sushi (raw fish and rice) and sashami (just the raw fish)

9. Our Farm Visit in Saitama Prefecture We made mochi and played with the farmer's son!

8. Waterfalls We admired the Kegon Waterfalls after riding an elevator 100 meters into the ground.

7. CREPES!!! (my personal favorite)

6. Shrines and Temples We learned about the differences between Shinto Shrines and Buddhist Temples.

5. Tsukiji Fish Market The largest fish market in Japan where we got to witness a tuna auction!

4. Our Night at the Ryokan We experienced traditional Japanese food and accomodations.

3. The Mitsui Reception We had a blast learning about Mitsui and gettign to know their young leaders!

2. FFJ Reception at the Tokyo Metropolitan Engei High School We spent time playing traditional Japanese games with FFJ members from all over Tokyo.

1. Our Home Stay with FFJ members from Handa Nogyo High School We spent three days and two nights as members of Japanese families being totally emersed in the culture and day-to-day life!