First set of images:

In the Umeda district, on the way to the Sky Building's rooftop
observatory. That's the extension to the already sprawling JR Umeda
subway station under construction.

First order of business: catch the new Macross Frontier movie at
the Cine Libre cinema in the Sky Building. The ticket cost 1800
yen, but it was worth every penny... er, yen, as the movie was flat
out fantastic--a veritable treat for the eyes and ears.
The ending was a bit of a downer, though.

The Umeda Sky Building, with the rooftop observatory bridging
the tops of both towers.
The following two images are views from the open-air rooftop
observatory:


Will be heading to Kyoto later this evening. More images to
follow.