Almost Ready to Launch

Our neighbourhood shipyard is still busy making patrol boats for the Japan Coast Guard.  Considering how high the boat in the water is riding above the waterline, the engines have not yet been installed. 

One is in the water being outfitted, but a second one is being prepared for launching.

After these two, there's an order for coast guard boats to be sent to Sri Lanka as foreign aid. All built right in our neighbourhood. And the motto of the Sumidagawa Shipyard doesn't translate into English very well, does it? 

Right Out Our Window

The Shinkansen (bullet train) is a world famous symbol of Japan.

When you ride the bullet train, the lunch boxes sold on the train are made in this building just across the river from our balcony. 

Here are some of the employees receiving training on using fire extinguishers outside. Judging by their clothing, they're very careful about contamination. 

So, if you're visiting Japan and riding the bullet train, please enjoy a box lunch made right in our neighbourhood.