around town: akihabara

Akihabara is the part of town where one ventures when one is in the market for new electronic eqipment and blown eardrums.

Akihabara is known for its electronic shops, which are literally every other address in the area.  The streets are even paved in worship of all things electronic.  The most notable thing about there area is the young salespeople who scream (often with the help of bullhorns) the daily deals.  Nothing is sacred. Not even ipods.

From blenders....

to plugs (?)....

to welcoming robots....?

what he's saying: "Konnichiwa // Akihabara eh yokoso"  or "Good day // and welcome to Akihabara!'

Also, lightbulbs....

and phonographs....

and fans...  seem to be important enough to garnish a spot on the Akhabara "walk of fame electric appliances."


Another thing that seems to be important enough to mention: AKB48.  A "troupe" of young girls whose only talent seems to be dressing up in "lolita" outfits and "performing" (music - get your minds out of the gutter!) daily in Akihabara (they do seem to have albums that are released nationally from time to time).   They are located on the top floor of the Don Quijote store, which seems to detract from their legitimacy.

Akihabara, we love your low prices, we dislike your cheapness!

Mata ne,
Melissa