Here are two multiple views I have from my digs. The tall, gray building is Takasaki City Hall. Rest assured, the government building and Mayor Matsuua are within my ever vigilant sight at all times.

My manager took me to this building the second day I arrived, upon which she helped me apply for my residence card. In City Hall, there is an international center that has great literary resources for gaijin: english reading books, maps, and newsletters, but perhaps what proved to be the most valuable bit of info I picked up from there wasn't on the shelves. I learned where foreigners toss 'em back: The Odessa.

I went last night.

Stay tuned...