Seeing Tokyo    by Kaori Shoji & Graham Fry Order:  USA  Can Kodansha International, 2006 (2006) Hardcover      Reviewed by Ayesha Baumgartner Seeing Tokyo is spectacular - both a gorgeous coffee table book and a comprehensive guide for those who have already been to Tokyo and those who long to visit this beautiful Japanese city. Having lived in Tokyo, the book let me appreciate yet again this unique, fascinating and treasured city, via vibrant photos that capture its energy, color, lights, and impact. Graham Fry, British Ambassador to Japan, states with accuracy in his foreword that 'Tokyo is one of the world's greatest cities, for energy and originality it can have few competitors.' Readers are encouraged 'to come and have a look.' This lovely book offers insights into the top spots to visit, what to see, where to go and how to get there. A map of Tokyo is offered to guide through the sights. There is plenty of choice 'to enjoy the good things in life' throughout the seasons. Enjoy the excitement of Asakusa's famed festival (matsuri). Revel in the city's history, described in lyrical text, in addition to stunning photos. Enjoy markets and temples as well as the local cuisine. View cherry blossoms for the first time or again. Visit shrines or enjoy a traditional wrestling match known as Sumo. Experience the streets of Ginza, various modern department stores and 'futuristic outlets.' Stop by a Kabuki Theater where 'the hint of the past still lingers', then enter popular luxury shops after dining on sushi. Visit Akihabara, the city's technology hub, and be fascinated by its neon lights and tech sounds. Visit Kagurazaka, home to geisha houses. Enjoy its international ambience of Italian and Asian restaurants, as well as French bookstores and cafés. Visit Omotesando, and Shibuya where your senses are sure to be stimulated. Famous fashion designers from Karl Lagerfeld among others have walked down the famed Center Street (Centaa-gai). See the shrine Meiji Jingu. Be fascinated by Roppongi and feel 'right at home', calling it the Hollywood or Rodeo Drive of Japan. This area inspired the movie, Lost in Translation. Alive at night and enjoyed by more foreigners over the weekend, it is where most of the latest movie premieres are held, right in Roppongi Hills. Visit Imperial Palace and stroll through its serene gardens. These are only a few of some of the most fascinating sights to see and enjoy. There is so much to experience in Tokyo. Bring Seeing Tokyo along for an excellent guide and history of the city that is sure to make your visit memorable. I rate it the most comprehensive and best guide for those travelling to Japan and those longing to return and rediscover all of Tokyo's treasures! Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Travel books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews