The New And The Old

Today, my host mom and I discussed the two major aspects of Japanese culture: cutting edge modernity to ancient history. From the latest electronics to the most fashionable (and unfashionable) new clothes trends, Japan is constantly among the leaders of the world's advancement. At the same time, because of its isolation and rich history, Japan has a unique and substantial ancient culture.

Friends and I visited Bic Camera (pronounced: Be-ku ka-meh-rah), an electronics superstore in Kyoto. It is seven stories packed with videogames, tvs, computers, cameras, household appliances, etc. - literally any electronic you could think of can be found there. What really intrigued me was the modernity of the Japanese brand products - from 3D point-and-shoots to foldable tablets (think Nintendo DS but sleeker and touch screen) - Japanese electronics definitely seem ahead of American electronics.

Immediately afterwards, we headed to a series of temples and gardens only a few blocks away from the electronics store.

This contrast - from new to old, within only a few blocks - continues to amaze me on a daily basis. Japan (and Kyoto especially) is filled with pagodas and Shinto shrines, ancient Japanese architecture and geishas - along with modern buildings, talking bathtubs and taxis that open the door for you. Definitely a city of its own kind, Kyoto constantly intrigues me.

We were entranced by an awesome (and oddly, hidden) fountain in Kyoto Station - a small example among many of Japan's hi-tech and creative culture.