Lost in Tazlation

The 10th Year...

2011-09-12T08:20:00.001-07:00

One Flag One Person
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

9/11 has become a reflecting point for many Americans (myself included). And on this 10th anniversary I find myself looking around and realizing how much NY has really changed. Walking down the West Side Highway you can't help but see the transformation this city has gone through. Signs reading "We Got Back Up", "9/11 Made us Stronger" rang true to NY. The "Tiles of America" show how united we've become. And I can't help but be a proud American. The colors shined strong on WTC 1 and with the Plaza, Reflecting Absence and the museum near completion. It's a sight to behold and of course capture. Which I have done but will take a little while longer to put up due to school and work. But for now I leave these images taken with instagram.

VAMPS in NYC!

2010-10-17T22:08:00.000-07:00

VAMPS in NYC 39...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Almost for got to post this, but during the NYAF/NYCC I got to go check out the VAMPS concert at the Roseland Ballroom and boy were they rocking! Got a bunch of pics which you can check out here! So Enjoy! Been busy with school so updates may slow down to a crawl but bare with me and I promise some great stuff coming out of this new journey! But for now go check out the VAMPS Photos!

Boom Boom Satellites - 18

2010-10-10T03:30:00.000-07:00

Boom Boom Satellites - 18
Originally uploaded by Mike Ricca

And as promised here is the pic with Boom Boom Satellites, I gotta admit NYCC/NYAF was a blast this year and sitting with these guys were a blast. Hope to get these edits soon, but with the Masters going on as well as heavy Room Renovations (will save for another post). This will have to do for now. Special thanks again for Amanda Nanawa and Mike Ricca for hooking up and taking photos respectively. Let's see what else 2010 has to offer but for now it's time to wrap up and get ready for the Vamps concert later tonight! But as usual check out the gallery HERE!

Puffy Live Interview!

2010-10-09T13:18:00.000-07:00

Puffy Ami Yumi - 13
Originally uploaded by Mike Ricca

That's right, I got to sit down and chat with the wonderful Puffy Ami Yumi, J-Punk superstars from Japan! Even though I have been busy with my Masters program, I still find time to do this. (but at least you can see why I haven't been posting anything). Either way it was a great sit down and I'll upload it as soon as I can (I have no help). But that's one down for today at the Kitano, next up will be Boom Boom Satellites at 6! Special Thanks to Amanda Nanawa for hooking this up for me and Mike Ricca for taking these great photos! For the rest of the Gallery click HERE!

Walking with Dinosaurs...

2010-07-28T22:04:00.001-07:00

T-Rex's Soft Side...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu Tasnaphun

July has been relatively slow, and after the 4th this have been all about relaxing and taking small gigs to pay the bills. Nothing serious nothing crazy, as mentally preparing for my Masters is exhausting enough! As a treat to myself I went and saw "Walking with Dinosaurs" at Madison Square Garden. What can I say but this show was amazing! I would have filmed it if they let me, but to say the least I did get some great shots in this collection called "WALKING WITH DINOSAURS"! Click to see it all! So amazing....

And the Rockets Red Glare...

2010-07-05T22:02:00.000-07:00

185/365:And the Rockets Red Glare...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Happy 4th all! How was your celebrations? Mine were quite spectacular! After waiting for the fireworks to start for about 6 hours+ (Had to get their early for best space for photography) The show started, and I got to experiment with my D90 and the results? Check em out here in my "4th of July Collection!"

Hideo Kojima And Me...

2010-06-17T04:27:00.001-07:00

Hideo Kojima And Me...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Week two of the countdown to my 33rd Year on earth. I got to cover a gig with the man who made Metal Gear himself, Hideo Kojima! And got a MGS1 for the PS1 signed by him. A great addition to a growing signature collection! But the sad part is, I didn't get a chance to take a picture with him as I shook his hand after he signed for me. But towards the end I was promised a pic. That didn't happen... The Security didn't get the message and rushed Kojima to his rest area. What I did get though was this pic, taken on my camera by Amanda Nanawa. It's become notorious in the past week for how cool a candid shot it is and I am actually happy to have gotten this. But I SWEAR, I WILL get a shot with the man someday! Until then enjoy my pics from the Uniqlo signing event! HERE!

A Good Way to Start Birthday Month!

2010-06-08T04:18:00.000-07:00

159/365:Office Ninja...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Basically been a bit busy with lots of projects but one comes to mind that is amazing, as I wrapped up two projects I got called back in to Viacom International to work on a real fun project. And for the week I will have this view from the 23rd Floor overlooking Broadway in Times Square. Spectacular! Again great way to count down to June 30th (My B-Day)

Event Horizon NYC!

2010-05-27T21:36:00.001-07:00

#16 looks at #30 and #22
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

One of the best things about NYC is that at any given time there is something new happening on the horizons! And this time it's an out door art exhibition called EVENTHORIZON:NYC and event which entails 31 naked statues standing all around the area of Madison Square Park and in sight of the park. By Antony Gormley these statues both iron and fiberglass (the ones on the ground are iron) stand vigilante looking over the city. I have already been out an about shooting and will probably do a video of this soon enough. You can see the photos I have of this event in my EVENT HORIZON NYC folder in my Flickr account! Enjoy and happy hunting!

Been quite the busy Month!

2010-04-18T22:38:00.001-07:00

Spike DW Shoot 03...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Boy has it been insane, but I really need to do more! With my acceptance into the SVA Masters Program, I've been hunting for more gigs then ever lately! I just need the funds to do the school thing! So lately I've just been working (hence no updates anywhere)! But keep faith everything will be back on track as soon as I straighten myself up! I've manage to keep my 365 on track so check it on on my Flickr if you have the time! Will try to check back in when I can!

Reaping the Benefits of NYC life.

2010-03-17T12:05:00.001-07:00

075/365:Early Repo Screening...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu Tasnaphun

What's great about living in NYC is that there is always something going on. And a lot of those going ons are usually free! For example this past Monday after coming back from the usual food hang-outs with friends, I walked by the theatre at Union Square. And lo and behold free tickets for "RepoMen" were being given out for a Tuesday showing. (A few days before the actual release)! So I went and saw it and loved it. All for free. Lovely this city offers so much! How is your city?

GoPro Hero HD!

2010-03-03T01:00:00.001-08:00

061/365:My Hero..!
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Welcome the new addition to the studio. This little camera by GoPro. It's really cool and shoots in full HD! Went out to the mountain's this weekend and shot a few runs coming down using the suction adaptor and stuck it right onto the board. Really solid footage. Although angles and compositioning were estimated (it has no screen just a reflective lens). I got some great shots out of it. With a 2 hour battery it's perfect for on the go fun. Here I edited the shots into the video you see below. Awesome fun!

The 365 Day Project...

2010-02-09T20:15:00.001-08:00

36/365: Paper City...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu Tasnaphun

It's February and so far 2010 has been a bit slow, fun things are happening but now with enough pictures in the gallery I can show you. Jumped on the 365 project train. What is it? Basically, take one picture a day that represents that day. You can take as many as you like but only one goes into the 365, so we're on the 40th day today! Let's see if I can make it till the end of the year. I won't be uploading them regularly here since this is for my "musings" Well hope you enjoy what's up so far.

You can see the Gallery HERE.

5AM 01/01/2010...

2010-01-01T06:35:00.000-08:00

5AM 01/01/2010...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Happy New Year's! Hope everyone had a great 2009 and now it's time to start 2010! A bunch of new projects will be starting up this year and my resolution is to go back to school! What about yours? I'll keep it short since it's so early! More updates later!

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

2009-12-17T10:55:00.001-08:00

Ghosts of Christmas Past...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Christmas is upon us and New York is lit up like no other, stores are decked up with decorations and New York is basically one magical town, crystal snowflakes the streets smelling of pine.. It literally does get you into the holiday spirit, what's it like in your area? I have created a Winter Gallery for you to see so check it out on my Flickr!

Have a Happy and Safe Holiday Season everyone!

Kinokuniya Bookstore NYC...

2009-12-02T13:34:00.001-08:00

Vagabond...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Growing up in New York I was very lucky to find whatever I needed. One of those things being anime and manga. Back then it was one of two ways, cheap and possibly boot legged Chinatown goods or over priced specialty shops, which we had both of. But we also had the actual Japanese bookstores like Asahiya and Kinukuniya. One of which sadly closed down this year. Probably because the majority of goods can be found online. Tho the other has flourished into a three story complex and that is Kinukuniya. Which expanded from only books, to hosting japanese and cultural events such as inviting artist, musicians and such to the store. One event which lingered on is ths painting you see in the picture done by the mangaka of "Vagabond" and "Slamdunk". So it seems for a genre which was once a niche and now in almost every bookstore around that the original carries must evolve or perish. Which in my opinion is a good thing.

Black Friday...

2009-11-30T22:12:00.000-08:00

Waiting for Rations...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Was in line at the Bestbuy near Woodbridge at 3AM along with a good 300+ other people. And I must say it has become a great tradition. From the insane mob that it was a few years ago, to what is now orderly chaos. Black Friday has become a fun experience with friends. By the time the first hour had past 3000 people have been let in and out of the store. Safely. So despite the internet and Cyber Monday (Which was created in 2005 the year I discovered Black Friday lol) it looks like this insanity that is Black Friday will go on. Even in a recession. How was your Black Friday?

Pink Shoes...

2009-11-23T21:04:00.001-08:00

Pink Shoes...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Was out helping a friend this weekend with his fashion shoot as a grip, and I must say always directing and on the com you forget how hard a grips work can be. It was a great day and seeing my friend working the camera as hard as I work the HMC-150 is truly inspiring and motivating! Near the end of the shoot I got this one shot off the model. Her name Danielle Cardona and she is quite talented and knows how to accentuate body lines for fashion, very little direction was needed which again is much appreciated. Her wonderful photography from this shoot can be seen on Mike Ricca's Flickr site! For more information and works from Mike check out his website http://www.focalmatter.com . Lots of beautiful work to be seen!

Zamza Live @ Webster Hall...

2009-11-20T05:00:00.001-08:00

Zamza Live @ Webster Hall...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

So went to see a pretty awesome band last night called Zamza, who or what is Zamza? Well if you mesh together four musicians from two powerhouse Japanese bands, and you get ZAMZA (Zamza N’Banshee). Formed in 2007, ZAMZA combines the voice and guitar sounds from former members of a band called “ECHOES” with the bass and drum lines from former band members of “JUDY AND MARY” – to produce its distinctive, loud rock sound. (I totally ripped that from their site lol). In anycase hope you enjoy the pics from this event! It was a blast and I highly recommend you get their new cd MANGA!

And the Yankees Bring Back the Trophy!

2009-11-04T21:45:00.001-08:00

Congrats to the New York Yankees, winning the 27th World Series! and having Matsui be MVP of the game! The city is rocking and the march down the "Canyon of Heroes" should be this Friday! I will try to be out there to take pictures. But for now we all gonna celebrate. As some people said, it was the "Hideki Matsui Show"! Click the pic to read more on the big win! Respects to Phillies on a strong game!

The Green Hornet and Kato in NYC.

2009-11-01T10:45:00.001-08:00

Green Hornet and KATO
Image by Mike Ricca

So this year for Halloween I was the Green Hornet and My friend was KATO! A Throw back to the old school heros, and celebration for the coming 2010 Green Hornet Movie! Although it was a rainy Halloween, a few good things came out of it, hanging with good friends, and the NY Yankees winning the 2nd game in the 3 round of the World Series. Good Times!

Where are you Batman.?!

2009-10-09T01:21:00.001-07:00

Where are you Batman.?!
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Can't believe it's October already and I still have no Halloween Costume, but have been keeping busy with Batman Arkham Asylum for the PS3 and I have to admit its one of the best games I have played in awhile. It has a very well written story by Paul Dini and is exactly what a comic book game should be. Based off the original source and not the movies, this is a game I would highly recommend!

Note: I know the Penguin isn't in the game but I like this shot anyways =P. Maybe he can be in the sequel Batman: Gotham City (This is my guess for the title if they make a sequel).

Signed Gundams...

2009-09-28T17:38:00.001-07:00

Signed Gundams...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

It's almost a fitting moment. You see this past weekend was the New York Anime Festival (NYAF) which あ!PoN got to cover. And I got to interview a certain director of a certain big robot series... His name? Yoshiyuki Tomino of Gundam 0079 and most of the UC series fame! People seemed intimidated by his presence but my sit down chat with him went quite well and we shared many laughs! Then he signed all these items for me from my trip to Odaiba in Japan! So the signed Gundam Boxes perfectly closes the Gundam extravaganza! Man what an awesome experience! Just as a refresher here are the links to the photos I shot from Japan in the GUNDAM FOLDER! Hopefully I'll be able to translate the show and air it soon on AnimePodcast.net !

Never Forget...

2009-09-11T23:59:00.000-07:00

Never Forget...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

It's been a long 8 years and as ground zero says empty multiple other buildings have risen all over the city, something is not quite right with that. But today is a day of remembrance, and as I go on walkabout I captured the solum feeling that is 9/11. In the rain and I find that many others have come out to remember and capture these moments... Been back from Japan for a good week now and as much as I miss it it's nice to be back in NYC... Pictures have been uploaded on my Flickr Page.

Sayonara 日本 m(-_-)m

2009-09-03T09:13:00.000-07:00

As Day turns to Night...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Leaving on a Jet Plane... Said farewell to James, Had breakfast at the airport and paid my fifty bucks for having luggage that is to heavy lol. Oh well time to sleep. This concludes the Japan trip and it's back to NY. I'll elaborate on the finer points on Japan as well as the Pachi-slot in later entries down the line. For now it's back to the real world. Thanks for coming along for the ride and hope you enjoyed it.

The JAPAN, GUNDAM and KYOTO Folder will be placed on the side bar now so that if ever anyone needs some rising sun it'll be there with open arms! Time to rest... Will be back later~

Fun Fact: We will arrive in New York the exact same time and they that we left. Time Traveling is fun! ZZZzzz..*

Akebonobashi Day Rise...

2009-09-03T06:09:00.000-07:00

Akebonobashi Day Rise...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Gooooood Morning Tokyo~! Pulled a successful all-nighter and everything is packed! Got some heavy bags, and soon we will trek to Shinjuku Station to get on the airport bus (no more JR RAIL PASS boo). James is gonna send us off. So this is the last look of this great view (for now). OK don't want to miss our flight (or do we)...

Head over to the JAPAN, GUNDAM and KYOTO Folder and relive the adventure!

The Streets Are Alive...

2009-09-03T01:06:00.000-07:00

The Streets Are Alive...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

I end the last day with this great shot from Tokyo Tower. As you can see Rainbow Bridge is in the back, and the ferris wheel. Oh yea and the big cross section that looks like Tokyo Tower or even the Kanji for Fire (火). Had Kaiten with James and Bonnie, then Bonnie went home, and I then we went off to Pachi-Slot faired so-so but over all fun! Took a cab back, and I must admit having GPS in a cab is great! Well no sleep tonight (that's what the plane is for). Gonna start packing and maybe get to that slice of pizza from Pizza La (we went for a snack lol).

So head on over to the JAPAN Folder and also check out the GUNDAM and KYOTO folder. And see this trip in it's entirety!

Limited Edition Amano Undies...

2009-09-02T17:03:00.000-07:00

Limited Edition Amano Undies...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

I had to post this, went to Lumine for some shopping and such found one of my favorite shops Village Vanguard, and this one store called UNDER KING which sells, you guessed it Underwear. The thing that caught my eye were these 70 dollar Gatchaman Undies. Why 70? Well because it's a limited Yoshitaka Amano Special! There were 3 designs all cool all EXPENSIVE! So I snapped the pic you see now. Now off to Tokyo Tower, sunsets at six-ish today so time to go~!

So head on over to the JAPAN Folder and check out theGUNDAM and KYOTO folder. See Ya! (yea I just copied this lol).

Akebonobashi Dori...

2009-09-02T09:57:00.000-07:00

Akebonobashi Dori...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

The final full day here in Japan, going to do a bit more shopping, and head over to Tokyo Tower, planning to get there just before sunset to get both day and night views of Tokyo! Then swing back to Shinjuku to have dinner with James and Bonnie and then show James some tricks and trades to Pachi-Slot! We're going for broke today! Oh yea.. And then pack!

So head on over to the JAPAN Folder and check out the GUNDAM and KYOTO folder. See Ya!

10PM Glow...

2009-09-01T23:51:00.000-07:00

10PM Glow...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Geh, got to Tokyo Tower just in time for it to close! Looks like we're coming back here tomorrow! Got some great pics of Tokyo Tower, won't post now will save that for tomorrow. Lots and lots of walking had, James broke off with us at Shibuya, but we rendezvous with him again later in Kabuki-Cho for some good food at Izakaiya Mermaid (I think)! Now back and should start packing but I think we'll do an all nighter on the last day!

So head on over to the JAPAN Folder for today's awesomeness. And if you just joined in check out the GUNDAM and KYOTO folder. G'Night!

Cranes Above Tokyo...

2009-09-01T15:26:00.000-07:00

Cranes Above Tokyo...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu Tasnaphun

Not the birds but these huge cranes, as new buildings rise in this area! Had food at Himawari KAITEN SUSHI! Yes!!! So good, so cheap! Then went all around Nishi-Shinjuku to see the Sumitomo building with an atrium that ran through the whole building! Checked out a huge book store in the Cocoon building in the area, man this area is great, the best part is all these views are free of charge! Next relax a bit and head back to Shibuya in search of Mandarake, and Three Minutes of Happiness!

I love this pic BTW (It's of a window cleaner at amazing hights).

LOTS AND LOTS OF PICTURES NOW in the JAPAN Folder. And if you just joined in check out the GUNDAM and KYOTO Folder as well!

Laundry on the Balcony...

2009-09-01T10:21:00.000-07:00

Laundry on the Balcony...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Couldn't believe the clothes I brought lasted this long and laundry is only being done now! But the coolest part? Doing laundry on a 12th floor balcony with the city as a backdrop (a view i will surely miss). Skies are pretty again so time to go to the Tocho and see all of Tokyo! Then Shibuya, then Tokyo Tower! And as the Joker said in Dark Knight. "And here we go.."

Would be stranged if I stopped now go check out JAPAN, GUNDAM and KYOTO folder for the rest of this fun trip! And cause some people were curious here is the SWAG pic!

Cloudy Shinjuku Night...

2009-08-31T23:56:00.000-07:00

Cloudy Shinjuku Night...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Made it back not so wet, I got a clear umbrella for 500 yen and learn they were quite hard to find in the states! But i can tell you everyone here loves the clear umbrella! I guess since its such a crowded town you really need to see where your going! Won some more fun things in the UFO machines, like another Misato, A Toro Plush, and a surprise gift for a friend. Won some lost some at pachi-slo, just played for fun so didn't bother winning. And got a CoCo Ichiban fan (third times a charm)! Well rest time, tomorrow is clear days so back to sightseeing! Got some fun pics so go check out the JAPAN folder for the rest of the trip as well as KYOTO for a more traditional view.

Maid Working Hard in The Rain...

2009-08-31T17:00:00.000-07:00

Maid Working Hard in The Rain...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Had some Becker's Burger for lunch and ventured into Akihabara! Forgot to mention last time I bought a Revoltech Jin-Roh figure as well as the whole set of Evangelion Limited UCC Coffee Cans (for 7 bucks)! This time I'm just gonna get some think overs and then probably move onto Shibuya or Shinjuku for more shopping! I think we'll also hit up CoCo Ichiban one more time for dinner!

Visit JAPAN , GUNDAM and KYOTO for the now extensive archive of this trip! Bare with me a bit more it's too exciting!

Walking in Typhoon...

2009-08-31T10:32:00.000-07:00

Walking in Typhoon...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

The news doesn't lie, the typhoon hit and it's been raining since early morning, I was able to roll out of bed and fumble for my camera just in time to zoom in on this person walking in the rain. The skies are so grey, but that won't keep us in. Gonna use this non sightsee-able time to revisit Akihabara and other places that require indoor shopping, will try to get some pictures as well~ But for now the JAPAN , GUNDAM and KYOTO folder has much to see!

Yakiniku Battle...

2009-08-30T23:40:00.000-07:00

Yakiniku Battle...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

The difference between more or less meat in Yakiniku is not only your level in chopstickery but also how you like your meat! That being said I like mine medium rare which makes for perfect meat hoarding lol. But since that would be unfair to others, we avoided the situation by going to KUI KUI VIKING! Basically an ALL you can eat joint! for around 30 dollars a person you get to down as much as you want from meats to sushi for 90min's alcohol included! And boy was it worth it, now its off to bed so, so that we can enjoy the last few days here before returning to the real world. *sob*

Got some pics here so check them out in the JAPAN , GUNDAM and KYOTO folders!

Asakusa Complex...

2009-08-30T17:36:00.000-07:00

Asakusa Complex...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Asakusa in the rain is cooler and crowded then ever! I've been here a few times already, and it never ceases to amaze me. The last time I came the Hōzōmon gate was under restoration, but this time it's Sensō-ji! What bad timing, but entrance to the temple was still available so that was cool. Also Nakamise street was covered up due to rain and had some new stores, had some snacks and got a few more omiyages! Got some wonderful pics here so check it out in the JAPAN Folder
and of course if you have time visit GUNDAM and KYOTO as well! Now going to head off to SanChome in Shinjuku then Ikebukuro to look for some meat and party!

Morning Helicopter...

2009-08-30T11:31:00.000-07:00

Morning Helicopter...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

The great thing about base camp is basically the choppers waking you up every morning! Today was a smaller one so it wasn't as loud as the chinook! The forecast seems cloudy all day and light rain, but that won't stop us! The incoming typhoon might (MIGHT). But it's off to Asakusa today and later all you can eat Viking! Since today is the GF's birthday! Happy Birthday L.R.M!

New pics and old are here in the JAPAN,GUNDAM and KYOTO Folders!

The Clay Man Chills...

2009-08-30T01:31:00.000-07:00

The Clay Man Chills...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Ahhh my feets are owie. Why because we decided to walk back from Shinjuku to Akebonobashi just to see Japan at night, it was a decent walk and the conbini stores came in handy. Ended the day in Shinjuku San Chome. And gonna rest up for Asakusa tomorrow, looks like rain but we'll rough it out! Oh yea this little clay figure was sitting in the median in between Nishi-Shinjuku and Kabuku-cho! I thought it was pretty random and cool!

New pics and old are here in the JAPAN,GUNDAM and KYOTO Folders!

Night Time Festivities...

2009-08-29T20:28:00.000-07:00

Night Time Festivities...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

And I was right! Too cool indeed! Time to run around like a three year old in a matsuri haha! Well it's a free day after all so I'll keep it real short and make you go look at the existing images in the flickr folders of: JAPAN, GUNDAM and KYOTO! Will blog later!

Soran Soran~!

2009-08-29T17:26:00.000-07:00

Two Flags...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

The festivities are rocking..! So many colorful teams are performing and it looks to be awhile before it's over, luckily snagged a nice front row seat for the spectacle! So here are the first of the 2009 Super Yosakoi event! I think I see a matsuri in the area next to us... Hmmm...

You know the drill go to JAPAN,GUNDAM and KYOTO for more goodness!

Heading to the Station...

2009-08-29T12:24:00.000-07:00

Heading to the Station...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Morning blast, well kinda... Today is a trip to Yoyogi Park and Harajuku for some last day shopping and checking out the Super Yosakoi! On our ways to Shakey's (yep when in Harajuku default to all you can eat) for some Corn Mayo Pizza (look it up yourself). Snapped a great shot of one of the Yosakoi teams moving to their next performance. Pretty cool! But enough of that I'll try to get some Yosakoi pics up as soon as I can!

Till then go visit the three magical folders JAPAN, GUNDAM and KYOTO for more goodness, maybe JAPAN should be called TOKYO now. Ah too early!

Destined to Meet...

2009-08-28T23:48:00.000-07:00

Destined to Meet...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Back at base camp! And I had to post this great picture on the last train back, which as you can see is classic Ikebukuro Drama! Boy Meets Girl, Girl Meets Boy ah~ Oh wait I meant Salary Man meets OL, OL meets Salary Man, chance encounter... and well you know, make up your own stories! As a bonus tho, they seem to be testing spotlights over the Tokyo Dome area and I was able to get this SHOT!

We'll no rest for the wicked but I will sure try, cause tomorrow is a free day so I think checking out the Yosakoi Festival in Yoyogi Park may be cool!

And the usual applies go check out the JAPAN FOLDER for latest updates. And the GUNDAM and KYOTO FOLDER for other pics!

Sega Game Center...

2009-08-28T18:44:00.000-07:00

Sega Game Center...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

One of the bigger game center's in the area and the place that got my UFO Catching skills back in gear! SO far I have gotten a big bear head which is really cute, and a limited edition Evangelion Misato statuette which I will post pics of later! Maybe when I get back to the states! But yea it seems Ikebukuro is the couples paradise for happy fun times (lol). As well as a female otaku's safe haven from the Akihabara crowd! The Animate here is HUGE. Sunshine City is pretty cool too ah speed blogging gotta run will be back soon! Off to Skylark Gusto for some food!

Note: Today started my Pachi-slo run in Japan as well. Lots of new machines out and I will cover that later! But for now you know where to go for the pics of the day JAPAN, GUNDAM, and KYOTO folder!

Ikebukuro Station West Gate...

2009-08-28T12:41:00.000-07:00

Ikebukuro Station West Gate...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Today's destination is Ikebukuro for it's awesomeness and my addiction the to J-Drama IWGP. But get this I forgot to take off my Battery from my charger! What to do?? Easy! Headed over to one of Ikebukuro's many Bic Camera's and picked up a new one! So pics exist~! So before we head into the urban jungle, I think a bit of Pronto will fill us up good! Oh yea as promised I got that shot of Ikebukuro West Gate Park and you can see it HERE! Oh Happy Days...

Things are being updated into the JAPAN FOLDER so check it out, and if you haven't seen the big robot yet head to the GUNDAM FOLDER. And of course the KYOTO FOLDER for those who like a more traditional Japan!

Harajuku Nights...

2009-08-27T23:51:00.000-07:00

Harajuku Nights...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Well today was awesome found some rare goods and toys at Kiddy Land in Harajuku, and some great fashion. As well as ate at Johnathan's Family Resteraunt (I tell you the food here o man o man)! So now it's off to home base, to rest and hit another fun part of Tokyo: IKEBUKURO! Which is my favorite place because of the Japanese Drama IWGP (Ikebukuro West Gate Park)! I'll be sure to get a shot of that as well! Good Night!

As always the JAPAN Folder will have all the other goodies in flickr! Don't forget to go to the GUNDAM and KYOTO FOLDER for shots from the first week outside of Tokyo!

Takashita Street Packed..!

2009-08-27T13:48:00.000-07:00

Takashita Street Packed..!
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Now one thing comes to mind, if Harajuku fashion is too expensive where would one go? The answer? Takashita Street! Basically right next to Harajuku Street, Takashita takes what is popular in Harajuku and makes low end affordable versions of it! Still pretty cool and affordable for the young jobless market! As you can see in the pic this place is PACKED! Lots of things seem to be happening today, and I see a sign for Yosakoi for the coming week, so maybe this isn't the last time in Harajuku for this trip~ Geh, dropped some major bills in Harajuku god save us all. As always the JAPAN Folder will have all the other goodies in flickr!

Don't forget to go to the GUNDAM and KYOTO FOLDER for shots from the first week outside of Tokyo!

Catching Some Rays...

2009-08-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

Catching Some Rays...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Now with the JR Rail Pass done, I'm back to traveling the regular system, which isn't all so bad~ Got a PASMO card to make it easier to traverse the many different private lines (Highly Recommended)! Today was a fashion day, and that means HARAJUKU baby~! The place where everyone is fashion conscious even these kitties wearing scrunchies! Yep that's right I'll bet in 6 months we are gonna get a scrunchies invasion here in NYC! You saw it here first! LOL We'll gotta get loaded before the journey ahead so off to Shakey's Pizza for some all you can eat pizza!

Don't forget to go to the GUNDAM, JAPAN and KYOTO FOLDER for shots not shown here!

Still Working...

2009-08-26T23:28:00.000-07:00

Still Working...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu Tasnaphun

Final image of today is Shiodome, another futuristic-ish city all lit up cause people are still busy working! But back at home home base after having met up with James and Bonnie for dinner at Billy the Kid. So for now good night and it's all about Tokyo from here on!

For the trip so far? You know where to go by now! To the GUNDAM, JAPAN and KYOTO FOLDER!

Old Edo...

2009-08-26T16:05:00.000-07:00

Old Edo...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

The secret insides of the Oedo Onsen, amazing you leave the present behind and step into a world of people in yukata's and that's it! You wallets are also useless, since you leave those in your lockers (It is an Onsen after all). But you pay with your locker key, there is a barcode on it and everything scans it. So when you check out at the end your bill is tallied up I love it! Gonna stay here for a few hours and have food as well so no more com for now since I'm headed into old edo.

So will try to get more pics, non onsen of course lol. But till then go visit the GUNDAM, JAPAN and KYOTO FOLDER!

Fujisanke Building...

2009-08-26T13:02:00.000-07:00

Fujisanke Building...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Having fun around the park area and got some more stuff from the Jump shop in Aqua city, said farewell to the Gundam and just enjoying the day, I gotta admit for a weekday this place is packed with people! New Pics Up soon in the usual places. In the GUNDAM , JAPAN and KYOTO FOLDER!

Oh wait I took this awesome shot of the Gundam! looks like it was falling into the Earth! Check it out HERE and tell me what you think!!

Gundam VS. LeDaiba...

2009-08-26T09:45:00.000-07:00

Gundam VS. LeDaiba...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

As you can see, the hotel had a wonderful view of the Gundam and vice versa~ What I forgot to mention is being a guest in one of the Green Project rooms, I was gifted with a Limited Green Project Gundam Model as well as History of Gundam Book (Which you could also purchase at the Green Tent near the Gundam). But it was a pretty neat bonus! As for my morning room view? Check THIS OUT! Cool right? Well off for more shots, check out and then coin lockers before heading to the Oedo Onsen for some down time!

Don't forget to check the GUNDAM FOLDER for what's new as well as the JAPAN and KYOTO FOLDER for the rest of the trip so far!

Good Night Gundam...

2009-08-25T23:59:00.000-07:00

Where's Gundam...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Day one ends on the Green Project and the lights are off on Gundam, as it awaits tomorrow. The time lapse came out pretty cool, and I hope to get one more of the sun rising. So time for a walk around Odaiba at night and then sleep! Tomorrow will be Gundam, Onsening at the Oedo, and then back to home base.

So Check the GUNDAM FOLDER for what's new as well as the JAPAN and KYOTO FOLDER for the rest of the trip so far!

Venting...

2009-08-25T21:49:00.000-07:00

Venting...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

We TOTALLY LUCKED OUT! I had no idea but today was the Gundam Project Wedding Experience! A couple got married under the Gundam and it was one super big event! They released thousands of balloons around the gundam! I don't have shots of the balloon's being released because I was too busy filming! In any case I found someone who took the picture HERE! Check out the GUNDAM FOLDER for what I got as well as JAPAN FOLDER and KYOTO FOLDER ! All this and it's only been one week!

Standing Strong...

2009-08-25T16:46:00.000-07:00

Standing Strong...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Breaking for food at Aqua City and decided to post this one shot of Gundam that I thought was cool! The clouds are amazing, and I have set up a time lapse in the hotel room aimed at the Gundam so you'll get to see what I see from my room at the LeDaiba. Also got some cool shots of the Limited Jump Shop in Odaiba as well, there is also a 10th Anniversary Naruto experience area here too!

Well be sure to check out the GUNDAM FOLDER for the big guys photo's as well as JAPAN FOLDER and KYOTO FOLDER if you haven't already! Back to Gundam at night!

Morning Chinook...

2009-08-25T08:41:00.000-07:00

Morning Chinook...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Woke up to the sound of this monstrosity flying over the building, and I can tell you it shook the building, managed to get this shot before it passed over tho. Gonna pack up and get ready to go see the Gundam in Odaiba. So be sure to check out the KYOTO FOLDER and the JAPAN FOLDER for pictures of this trip so far. And if all you want to see is the Gundam then I have set up this GUNDAM FOLDER for you to check out!

The Sky Garden...

2009-08-24T23:55:00.000-07:00

The Sky Garden...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu Tasnaphun

Well tomorrow is ODAIBA and the GUNDAM Green Project! So off to bed! I leave this entry short with a picture from the Sky Garden overlooking Kyoto Station! So go look in the KYOTO FOLDER for the final batch of pics! Cause tomorrow it's back to JAPAN FOLDER for updates!

The Gates...

2009-08-24T19:20:00.000-07:00

Perspective 2
Originally uploaded by Tasayu Tasnaphun

We never made it up to the very top lol. Time was running out and we were losing light. But we got so many neat pictures and as far up as we did go I can say the gates never ended. Now headed off to eat at the Kyoto Station Sky Garden what a day~ Pictures will be uploaded in the KYOTO FOLDER. After this it's back to Tokyo!

Inari Line Stop...

2009-08-24T12:15:00.000-07:00

Inari Line Stop...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu Tasnaphun

Shinkansen back to Kyoto and headed towards the Inari Shrine, To see the many many many Gates. Can't stress enough how awesome the JR Rail Pass! This will probably be the last day of photos for the KYOTO FOLDER! So Check em out!

Crossing Gion...

2009-08-23T23:17:00.000-07:00

Crossing Gion...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Back at James' place and a bit tired but, since we have the JR Rail Pass, I think we're gonna go back to Kyoto one more time for a day trip! Nara was a bust due to weather so tomorrow holds the Inari Shrine! Good night and stay tuned, todays pictures are uploaded of course in the KYOTO FOLDER!

Miko at Jishu-Jinja...

2009-08-23T18:07:00.000-07:00

Miko at Jishu-Jinja...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Breaking before heading to Gion, Eating some Ichigo Milk Kakikori, got some fabulous images of the temples today and as the weather cools down, looking forward to seeing Kyoto during magic hour! Bought so many things here and once again ended up with more things to carry! So to see today's outing so far go check the KYOTO FOLDER! I now leave the image of this Miko at Jishu-Jinja!

Path to Sky Garden...

2009-08-23T12:00:00.000-07:00

Path to Sky Garden...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Stuff is stashed in the coin locker, and now off to Sanjūsangendō. Just wanted to blast post this cool image ok Kyoto station for all to see.! I also posted some pics during the ride here as well which you can check in the KYOTO FOLDER!

Tasayu Tasnaphun 様...

2009-08-23T10:45:00.000-07:00

Tasayu Tasnaphun 様...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Checking out of the Ryokan I almost forgot to show you how the place welcomes it's guest, With a hand written sign! Well since checkout is at 11am, gonna head out to Kyoto Station to use one of the many accessible coin lockers so that we can travel easier! So for now if you haven't seen the KYOTO FOLDER yet check it out! Today's hit list is Sanjūsangendō, Ginkaku-Ji and Shopping in Gion.

Late Night Bus...

2009-08-22T23:55:00.000-07:00

Late Night Bus...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Having a Day Pass for the Kyoto Bus System paid off greatly! But what I find interesting in Kyoto is you board the bus first in the back and pay as you get off. Which is interesting because if it was NYC man o man. Think I'll hit the onsen again before bed, and get ready for tomorrow! The pic of the moment is this empty late night bus the rest? Go to my KYOTO FOLDER on Flickr

Traditional Tastes...

2009-08-22T20:00:00.000-07:00

Traditional Tastes...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Finally checked in and uploaded some great shots, but before we head back out again I'll leave you with this great image from the Temple, I love seeing people still interested in the old ways... Going to eat at BIKKURI DONKEY (I love that place)! Then Gion at Night! On a side note, the public bath here is nice and the in itself is AWESOME you can see a pic HERE! Well off to food and more fun! Today's pics are posted in the KYOTO FOLDER on Flickr

Modern Day Monk...

2009-08-22T15:51:00.000-07:00

Modern Day Monk...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Heading Up Kiyomizu-Dera I caught this great image of this Monk standing timelessly chanting away. And I could swear this this the same Monk from when I was here a few years ago (Have to dig back through old photos later). The weather is nice with passing drizzles... Have all my gear on me until we check in at 4PM.

I've got some great shots so far and of course you can find them in my KYOTO FOLDER on Flickr.

Always On Time...

2009-08-22T11:18:00.000-07:00

Always On Time...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

I'll have to admit the Shinkansen is smooth and fast, and the JR Rail Pass hooks you up good, tho I do recommend not being seated in a smoking car! (Tickets for early departure only had that left). In any case the ride down was great and due to tired-ness missed seeing Fuji-san. Today's plan is simple, Check in to the Ryokan and Head to Kiyomizu Temple! Since Kyoto will be big I decided to create a KYOTO FOLDER on my Flickr Site! So for these next few days go there!

Imitation Firework...

2009-08-21T23:24:00.000-07:00

Imitation Firework...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Back in Tokyo at Base Camp! Rode the big ferris wheel, ate decent American Food, Saw a huge dry dock, saw Japan's largest Chinatown. Got some stuff and took more pictures! Too tired now to add any links except the obligatory check this link out, drum roll... JAPAN FOLDER lol... Night all!

Welcome to Yokohama...

2009-08-21T19:15:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Yokohama...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

It's Gorgeous here! The Skies are Blue and the weather breezy, I'm loving city of the future, looked all around and snapped some awesome images which of course is in the JAPAN FOLDER (but you know that already lol)... Headed to Marine Tower and Chinatown gonna head over to Bubby's Pie Company soon (There's one in YOKOHAMA) to meet with James and Bonnie our gracious hosts for some American style food? We'll see! Hope to get one more post in today with a cool night shot so stick around! Wi-Fi = Amazing!

Bonus PIC: Bubby's is Boss!

Portrait and Fortune...

2009-08-21T13:42:00.000-07:00

Portrait and Fortune...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

A Little Gem this place is! I must say the Ramen is TO DIE FOR! Admission was only three dollars not including Ramen, but you do get bang for you buck! We must have been the only foreigners there but I'll tell you again this is a must stop for food and history lovers! Based off of 1953 Japan, you get a taste of what Japan was like before the war. Two Thumbs Up! Gonna hop back on the JR line and check out Yokohama's Future Town and Giant Ferris Wheel. This trip so far is non stop movement at an enjoyable pace! More info here: Ramen Museum

New Images are up in the Usual JAPAN FOLDER!

The Platform...

2009-08-21T11:50:00.000-07:00

The Platform...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Waiting here with station Wifi is nice, looking around and noticing quite a few people are headed in the Yokohama direction. Weather is nice today, and my stomach is ready for some RAMEN from the Ramen Museum in Shin Yokohama! So till next post! Be sure to check out the JAPAN FOLDER for a plentiful batch of new images! Gonna try and use the heck out of this JR RAIL PASS before time runs out on the 25th of this month!

Shibuya Rock Rock On..!

2009-08-20T23:22:00.000-07:00

Shibuya Rock Rock On..!
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Found the Gundam Pod game in Akihabara, and a few other gems. Then headed to Shibuya and checked out the 109 building with the GF. And man it's definitely 9 floors of Girl on Girl shopping! Went to say hi to Hachiko near Shibuya Eki and ate at an Izakaiya in Shibuya, after that back to James' to rest and get ready for tomorrow! Destination: YOKOHAMA! Pictures are in the hundreds already but as usual I have posted the selects in my JAPAN FOLDER on flickr!

NEWS: Apparently there is an American made movie about Hachiko! Check out the trailer HERE!

Akahibara Area...

2009-08-20T15:15:00.000-07:00

Akahibara Area...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

I must admit it's as crazy as ever and on a weekday even! Found my curry shop as well as the one that exists in NY "Go Go Curry"! Pretty Nifty took tons of pictures of some fun Figures which can bee seen in the FIGURES FOLDER on Flicker, everything else? In the JAPAN FOLDER as usual! Be sure to look for the Samurai Maid Pic it's interestingly funny! Hopefully gonna check out a bit more before heading to Shibuya! But first a stop at Animate for some anime goods!

Never Ending Train...

2009-08-20T12:07:00.000-07:00

Never Ending Train...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

The start of the first full day, and It's off to scout out Akihabara, the Otaku's Den! Just had MOS Burger so I'm pretty fueled for the journey ahead! Hope to also find some CoCo Ichiban Curry as well! So off we go and remember be sure to check out the JAPAN FOLDER for more pics that haven't been posted here! Off we go!

New Yorker in Shinjuku...

2009-08-19T23:55:00.000-07:00

New Yorker in Shinjuku...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Had a long day in such a short time, after reaching Tokyo and dropping stuff off at James' pad, we all headed off to the Tokyo Metro Government Building for a night view of the area I will be covering in my two weeks, and then headed off to Shinjuku to go eat! This ends the first day in Japan and once again check out my JAPAN FOLDER for more images that I haven't posted here! Tomorrow will yield otaku central AKIHABARA!

The Brightness of Dusk...

2009-08-19T17:50:00.000-07:00

The Brightness of Dusk...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Still an hour till Tokyo and on the train going through Chiba, I must admit, the sun sets here pretty quick in the "Land of the Rising Sun". But luckily it's always an amazing sight! I took a few great shots that will be posted later in my JAPAN FOLDER !

The Green Gate...

2009-08-19T17:20:00.000-07:00

The Green Gate...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

Landed at Narita and just got my rent-a-keitai (cel phone)! Thanks to rentafonejapan! The thing was waiting at the post office in Terminal 2 so accessible! With that and luggage in tow, I now head to the みどりの窓口 to get my JR RAIL PASS. A gift to us foreigners which lets us travel anywhere in Japan unlimited for a flat fee! ( I got a one week pass). Now to head off to Tokyo!

More pics of clouds in my flickr account's JAPAN FOLDER !

Alaska sky..!

2009-08-18T15:10:00.000-07:00

Alaska sky..!
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

What a beautiful view, caught this right before todays sky meal of Shrimp Curry! How I love window seats! More pics in my flickr account's JAPAN FOLDER !

Pre-game Huddle...

2009-08-18T11:50:00.000-07:00

Pre-game Huddle...
Originally uploaded by Tasayu

As I wait for to board the flight to Japan to see a friend, a robot and a country missed, I catch this moment of my soon to be attendants preparing for the long journey ahead... This begins the first entry of Lost in Tazlation! Be sure to check the rest of the pics on my flickr account's JAPAN FOLDER !

Not here yet...

2009-04-01T12:36:00.000-07:00

But do follow me at my XANGA