Visiting Japan for the first time felt like a dream come true! The vibrant energy of this magical city instantly captivated me, and I knew I was going to fall head over heels. My husband Johnny and I embarked on a ten-day adventure, spending six days in bustling Tokyo and four days exploring Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara. While we didn’t get to see everything we wanted, we still had an incredible time – a perfect excuse to come back for more!
This guide will help you navigate the city, highlighting the places we explored, the delicious food we tried, and the travel tips we learned along the way.
Getting There: Direct Flights and a Smooth Arrival
We were ecstatic to find direct flights from San Diego to Tokyo on Japan Airlines! This was the best deal we could find, saving us the hassle of driving to Los Angeles International Airport. The 11-hour flight in economy class was surprisingly comfortable. The service was impeccable, and the meals were some of the best I’ve ever had on a plane – truly thoughtful and top-notch!
When planning your trip, you have the choice of two major airports: Narita and Haneda. We opted for Narita because of the Narita Express Train, which whisks you directly to Tokyo with stops at Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station, and Shibuya Station.
Finding Your Home Away From Home: Accommodation Tips
For the majority of our stay, we utilized Airbnb, but for our final night, we treated ourselves to the luxurious Hyatt Centric Ginza (check out my hotel review for more details!). We spent our time in the vibrant Shinjuku and Koto Districts.
My biggest tip? Research the areas you want to visit most and book accommodation close by. Even if you can’t find something centrally located, Tokyo’s efficient train system makes getting around a breeze. It usually takes no more than 20 minutes to travel across the city.
Navigating Tokyo Like a Pro: Train Etiquette and Transportation Essentials
Tokyo’s public transportation system is a marvel of efficiency. To make your journey seamless, familiarize yourself with the train system before you arrive. Watch some YouTube videos to get a feel for the environment and the flow of people.
Knowing the rush hour is crucial. Be mindful of the times when people are heading to and from work. The trains get incredibly crowded, but everyone is very courteous and considerate. Just exercise extra caution when navigating the stations with luggage.
Speaking of luggage, if you’re planning to travel around with large suitcases, consider booking taxis to get to your destination. We found that flagging them down was easy, and it was a lifesaver with our four suitcases. While taxis might be a bit pricier, the convenience is worth it. However, if you choose to take the trains with luggage, look for elevators in the stations. They’re a lifesaver, especially during peak hours. We were so focused on the crowds that we totally forgot about them until the end of our trip. Don’t make the same mistake!
Tokyo’s Train Etiquette: A Crash Course
Here are some essential train etiquette tips:
- Escalators: Stand on the left and leave the right side open for those in a hurry.
- Boarding trains: Line up to the side of the doors and wait for passengers to exit before entering.
- Suica Card: For efficient travel, purchase a Suica card. This rechargeable prepaid card allows you to use most public transportation – metro, buses, trains, and even monorail.
- Cash is King: Carry cash to refill your Suica card. Ticket kiosks don’t accept American credit cards, so having some Japanese yen on hand is essential. You can easily exchange currency at Tokyo Station.
Exploring Japan Beyond Tokyo: The Japan Rail Pass
If you plan to explore other cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara, you must purchase a Japan Rail Pass before arriving in Japan. Activate it when you’re ready to use it. This pass is valid on all JR National Trains and Shinkansen Bullet Trains, which we used to travel to other cities. The Narita Express train to the airport is also included.
For detailed information on purchasing, activating, and using the Japan Rail Pass, check out the official guidelines [link to official website].
Japanese Food: An Exploration of Flavors
One of the most exciting aspects of traveling to Japan is the food!
A couple of essential dining tips:
- Tipping is not customary.
- 7-Eleven is your best friend. These convenience stores are everywhere and offer a variety of delicious snacks and drinks. I couldn’t get enough of salmon onigiri and milk tea! Don’t forget to stock up on water.
- Credit cards are not always accepted. Make sure you have an internationally recognized card, but be prepared to use cash in most places.
- Vending machines rule! Many restaurants require you to order and pay through a vending machine before sitting down. After paying, you’ll receive a ticket to hand to the waiter or waitress to place your order.
- Chopstick etiquette is important: Never rub chopsticks together to remove splinters, as it suggests you think they are cheap. And never stick chopsticks straight up in a rice bowl—it’s considered incredibly taboo and a reminder of funerals and bad luck.
When dining out, you’ll usually pay ahead of time at a vending machine or at the end of the meal. Once you receive your bill, head to the cashier to pay.
Here are a few simple Japanese phrases to use while dining:
- [Insert basic Japanese phrases for dining]
Conclusion: Tokyo – A City That Will Steal Your Heart
Tokyo is a vibrant city that effortlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering a unique cultural experience. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, indulging in delicious street food, or navigating the efficient public transportation system, there’s something for everyone in Tokyo. With its captivating energy, delicious food, and friendly people, this magical city will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on you. So, pack your bags, grab your Suica card, and prepare to be enchanted by the magic of Tokyo!
