I’m here in Japan for the month of March. 1 week ago I boarded a flight to Tokyo. Here’s my experience thus far.
Language barrier: I haven’t encountered a situation yet where my lack of Japanese has become an issue. I’ve been able to do pretty much everything I’ve set out to do. I consider myself blessed that English is a secondary default. But really, Japan should probably try to be less accommodating.
Hotel toiletries: I’ve been given a razor, brush, and toothbrush/toothpaste at every hotel I’ve stayed at. All disposable, so no need to worry about previous use. I would’ve saved space in my backpack.
Cash/credit: some vending machines and shrines only have accepted cash. But in my time in Tokyo, I thought I’d use more of it than I have. Credit has been pretty universal (if you have a Visa/Amex).
Shuttles from Narita Airport: have you ever been to Disney and needed to board a bus to your hotel? Hotel shuttles at Narita pretty much exactly the same way! Ask for help to find your shuttle.
Day 1: We landed in Haneda and had to transfer to Narita for our hotel. We made it, but I went nearly 24 hours from waking up for my plane until bed.
Day 2: Dropped my parents off at Narita because they’re traveling in SE Asia this week. Took the train back to Asakusa. Visited Sensoji Temple, and walked to Skytree. My hotel was the Henn Na Hotel Asakusa, which had virtual check in agents! Gimmick aside, this hotel was fairly central for my first few days, and I enjoyed my stay there. The rooftop deck was a nice bonus.
Day 3: Visited the National Museum and Ueno Park. The national museum took 4ish hours of my time-there really is a lot to see. Afterwards I strolled through Ameyoko St. I also learned that homeless in every country are bound with dogs.
Day 4: I walked from my old hotel to Shinjuku via Tokyo Station (14 miles)! There are few better ways to explore a city. Took my photo with Hachiko, and was amazed at all the fashion options in Harajuku. Walked through Yoyogi Park and was amazed that the city disappeared. I started staying at the APA Hotel Shinjuku Gyoemmae and enjoyed the public bath every night.
Day 5: browsing Akihabara to figure out what souvenirs I wanted to buy, and to visit the Radio building. I didn’t realize there’s a Steins;Gate themed surprise at the top. Just be sure to bring a spoon.
Day 6: I literally did the itinerary Chris Broad said in the “14 Days in Japan” video. The temples and Gundam were fantastic! Shinjuku being a central station came in clutch for departing for Kamakura and arriving back from Yokohama.
Day 7 (today): Hakone, but the reverse loop! I would’ve explored more but it’s COLD!!! Also-the reverse loop takes you up the mountain, where there’s still snow. Visibility was poor, so no Fuji, but the sites and tranquility of Hakone plus a Ryokan stay made it more than worth it.
Please lmk if there’s any tips or questions you guys have! I hope to do this again in a week!
by marsmat239