Japan – the land of rising sun and cultural wonder – beckoned us with its vibrant energy, and we were ready to embark on a magical journey. My husband Johnny and I spent 10 unforgettable days exploring the heart of Japan, six of which were dedicated to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. The remaining days took us to Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara, each city offering a unique glimpse into the country’s rich heritage. While we couldn’t experience everything Japan has to offer in just 10 days, our hearts were overflowing with memories, leaving us yearning for a return trip.
This Tokyo travel guide shares our experiences, highlighting the places we explored, the delicious food we savored, and the valuable travel tips we learned along the way.
Getting There: A Smooth Flight to Tokyo
Our journey began with an exciting discovery: Japan Airlines offered direct flights from San Diego to Tokyo, saving us a tedious drive to LAX. We opted for economy class, and despite the 11-hour flight, the service was exceptional. The in-flight meals were a delightful surprise, exceeding our expectations with thoughtful presentation and delicious flavors.
Landing in Tokyo, we had the choice between two airports: Narita and Haneda. We chose Narita for its convenient connection to the Narita Express Train, which whisked us directly to Tokyo with stops at major stations like Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station, and Shibuya Station.
Finding Our Home in Tokyo: Navigating Accommodation
For most of our stay, we opted for the comfort and convenience of Airbnb. However, our last night was spent at the stylish Hyatt Centric Ginza, a hotel I highly recommend – I’ve even written a review sharing our experience. We found ourselves staying in the bustling Shinjuku and Koto Districts, two areas perfect for exploring the city’s diverse attractions.
A key piece of advice: choose accommodations close to the places you plan to visit frequently. This minimizes travel time and allows you to make the most of your time in Tokyo. Even if you can’t find centrally located accommodations, Tokyo’s efficient train system makes it easy to get around, with most destinations reachable within 20 minutes.
Exploring the City: Navigating Tokyo’s Public Transportation
Tokyo’s public transportation system is renowned for its efficiency and organization. To navigate this intricate network seamlessly, here are some essential tips:
1. Familiarize Yourself with the Train Systems: Before your trip, watch YouTube videos to gain a better understanding of the environment and how to navigate different lines and stations.
2. Be Mindful of Peak Hours: Be aware of rush hour, when people are heading to and from work. The trains can get extremely crowded, so be extra cautious with luggage.
3. Consider Taxis for Luggage-Heavy Trips: If you’re traveling around the city with bulky luggage, consider booking a taxi for convenience. We found it easier to flag down taxis as they passed by. While taxis can be pricier, they’re worth the convenience, especially with multiple suitcases.
4. Take Advantage of Elevators: If you’re traveling by train with luggage, look for elevators in the station to avoid carrying heavy bags up and down stairs.
5. Master Escalator Etiquette: When riding escalators, step off to the left side, leaving the right side open for those in a hurry.
6. Learn Train Boarding Etiquette: When boarding trains, line up to the side of the train doors and let passengers exit before entering.
7. Invest in a Suica Card: A Suica card is a rechargeable prepaid smart card that allows you to travel on most public transportation, including metro, buses, trains, and monorails.
8. Carry Cash for Suica Card Refills: Ticket kiosks generally don’t accept American credit cards. We recommend exchanging currency at the Tokyo Station for convenient refills.
9. Purchase Japan Rail Pass in Advance: If you plan to travel to other cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara, purchase a Japan Rail Pass before arriving in Japan. Activate it once you’re ready to use it. The Japan Rail Pass offers unlimited travel on all JR National Trains, including Shinkansen Bullet Trains, and the Narita Express.
Dining in Tokyo: A Cultural Feast
Tokyo’s culinary scene is a vibrant mix of traditional and modern flavors. Here are some dining tips to enhance your experience:
1. No Tipping Required: Unlike in many Western countries, tipping is not customary in Japan.
2. Explore the Convenience of 7/11: Hungry for a quick snack? Look no further than 7/11, ubiquitous throughout the city, offering an array of delicious food and drinks. I was particularly fond of their salmon onigiri and milk tea.
3. Check for Credit Card Acceptance: While some restaurants accept credit cards, many prefer cash. Make sure you have a credit card that can be used internationally.
4. Embrace Vending Machines: Many restaurants use vending machines for ordering and payment. After paying, you’ll receive a ticket that you present to the waiter or waitress.
5. Master Chopstick Etiquette: When breaking apart wooden chopsticks, avoid rubbing them together, as it implies that you think they’re cheaply made. Also, avoid sticking chopsticks straight up in a rice bowl as it’s considered taboo.
6. Understand Payment Procedures: Most restaurants require payment upfront, either at a vending machine or when the bill arrives. Once you’ve paid, head to the cashier to settle your bill.
7. Learn Essential Japanese Phrases: Pick up a few basic Japanese phrases for dining.
This Tokyo travel guide aims to equip you with the knowledge and tips you need to embark on an unforgettable journey through this vibrant city. From navigating its efficient public transportation to savoring its diverse culinary delights, Tokyo promises a captivating experience that will leave you with a deep appreciation for Japanese culture.
