We're in Kyoto tonight after a wonderful interview with Pico Iyer in nearby Nara. (More on that to come.) In our 12 hours here, we got great tape, saw beautiful night-lit temples, and ate delicious sushi at a genuine local joint. Our accommodations, however, leave something to be desired. Having been spoiled by our sleek business hotel in Tokyo, we were horrified to discover this place only offers low-speed modems for rent. Modems! Remember those? So our more substantial blog posting will have to wait till tomorrow. Meanwhile, we'll have to admire the transistor-radio-cum-nightstands, argyle carpets and white faux-leather couches.

Other adventures to report on: Sunday's wild otaku party, Jenny's first try at pachinko, and more! Stay tuned.

- Leital Molad