Shimotsuma,+Japan

= Shimotsuma, Japan = //Kamikaze Girls//, by Novala Takemoto []

__Location Description__
Shimotsuma City in the Ibaraki Prefecture is a small, sleepy community of 37,000 near the eastern coast of Japan. Rice paddies stretch for as far as you can see in every direction, making it the perfect place to escape from the stress and tumult of the stereotypical Japanese lifestyle.

However, this doesn't mean you can't have fun. This rural setting is also home to a thriving Yanki culture, with a few local Yakuza elements thrown in for spice and excitement. The Joso Line railway also means that you are never far from the capital city of Tokyo, the largest city in the world.

__Itinerary__
Relax! That is the thing to do in Shimostuma City. The local McDonald's offers free Wi-Fi, so your connection with the outside world is never truly cut off. Do some shopping in the Jusco department store, one of the largest of its kind in the world, where you can find virtually anything that you need (especially if you are a Yanki, but Lolita fashion aficionados my desire to explore further afield).

Be sure to spend some time around the Shimotsuma station. There are several pachinko parlors nearby where you can gamble money away in a noisy environment with machines that resemble pinball games. If you are on a winning steak, however, just be sure not to win too much. A soba noodle shop in the station will provide an authentic experience of the Japanese version of fast food.

When you are ready for Tokyo, the station is right there for you. A one hour ride on the Joso Line brings you to the Toride station. From there, board the Joban Line to the Ueno station in Tokyo, which takes a mere forty minutes. Once you are in Tokyo, it is just a short walk to the Baby, the Stars Shine Bright boutique, a premiere fashion store for Lolita clothing and accessories. When you return to Shimotsuma, bedecked in Lolita finery, you can take pleasure in the gawking stares of the locals.

__Local Travel__
You can walk to just about anywhere you need to go in Shimotsuma, but a scooter is faster. And since Shimotsuma City is so small and rural, there are few cops, which means you likely won't need a license. A souped up scooter or motorcycle could also garner the rough affection and camaraderie of the local Yanki community, if you are into that sort of thing.