Japan
Our Journey to Japan
Around the World in 30 Days
Japan is a captivating blend of ancient culture, breathtaking landscapes, and cutting-edge innovation. From the tranquil temples of Kyoto to the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, each region has a story to tell. Join us as we explore Japan’s rich history, delectable cuisine, and vibrant attractions that make it a truly unforgettable destination.
The title “Around the World in 30 Days” isn’t just poetic; it’s quite literal! We took off from London flying Eastward to Tokyo and, rather than simply returning the same way, we kept up the eastward journey back home from Tokyo. Yes, it sounds like we circumnavigated the globe just to get to Japan and back, which we technically did. So, in true globe-trotting style, we can now claim “Around the World in 30 Days”—even if our main focus was Japan!
Our journey kicked off in London, flying east to Tokyo. Arriving at Haneda Airport, a mix of wonder and a bit of panic set in, We still had to find our way to the city and our hotel. Tokyo awaited
Haneda Airport to Tokyo
Suica Cards Japan
The journey from Haneda Airport to our Tokyo hotel was the first step of our Japan adventure! We picked a hotel near Tokyo Station for convenience during our four-day Tokyo stay and to set the stage for exploring the city. First, We made a beeline for the Suica card kiosk at the airport. Suica cards are a traveller’s best friend in Japan! These prepaid IC cards aren’t just for trains; they’re your all-access pass to a seamless experience across the country. The Suica card covers almost everything—from public transport buses and the Metro to vending machine snacks and souvenirs from shops.
Head for JR East Travel Service Center – Haneda, just search Google Maps and pin the Center when you arrive. It’s in Terminal Three the arrival Terminal for international flights. The Sucia ticket machine is to the left of the Travel Centre. It has a lot of signs and a queuing system for tourists to buy the cards. It’s just like a ticket machine at a train station. First of all press English, then purchase a card. They take credit cards or cash, best to pay cash. We just put 2000 Yen on 2 x cards (Buy them separately) This would more than cover the cost of the travel to our hotel 550 Yen each (2.79 GBP) The card can then be topped up at any Train or metro station machine. Just click English and top up a Sucia car.
JR East Travel Service Center
After clearing arrivals, make it your top priority to look to the left of this office for the Welcome Suica Machine. Many tourists will be searching for this machine. It is very well sign-posted, but you have to find JR East Travel Service Center first.
Keikyu train line
Our first journey was on the Keikyu Line, also known as the KK Line, just a 2-minute walk from Terminal 3. Luckily, plenty of English signage is around, and spotting “City Center” eased those first-arrival nerves! The train dropped us off just a short walk from our hotel. I’d already arranged an early baggage drop with the staff via email. We landed in Japan at 07:00 and expected to reach the hotel by 08:00. The plan was to check in, drop off our bags, find a nice breakfast place, and then straight to Tokyo Zoo.
The 1st of October was Tokyo Citizens’ Day, a public holiday, so we discovered that entry to the zoo was free! Although it’s a regular workday, many government-run cultural sites across Tokyo offer free entry. It was only a short trip on another train or metro this time the Ginza line. It cost 180 Yen, which is roughly 91 pence (GBP). I could half the Yen amount to get an approximate price in pounds/pence.
When I say “half the Yen,” it’s a bit more complicated than it sounds! To clarify: 100 yen equals 51 pence, 1,000 yen is about £5.00, and 10,000 yen is £50.00. (I’m sure a maths teacher would have a field day with this!) But anyway, despite the tricky conversions, the figures in my head seemed to add up just fine.
Hotel in Tokyo
lyf Ginza Tokyo
This was our hotel for 4 days on arrival in Tokyo and the 4 days after our trip to Kyoto. lyf Ginza Tokyo is a playful hotel designed to meet the needs of the next generation of travellers. All 140 rooms are available for overnight stays or long-term stays. Choose from studio-type rooms (Good for One) to rooms with two bedrooms (Two of a Kind). The hotel also offers a wide range of shared spaces and facilities, including a co-working lounge (CONNECT), a social kitchen (BOND), a coin laundry (WASH & HANG), and a reception counter (SAY HI). lyf Ginza Tokyo is surrounded by three of Tokyo’s most prominent districts: Ginza, Nihonbashi, and Yaesu. The world-famous shopping district of Ginza is about a 5-minute walk from the hotel, and Nihonbashi and Yaesu, which are business and commercial districts, are also within walking distance. lyf Ginza Tokyo
Plan your trip to Japan
I wasn’t sure how to begin this post—whether to cover everything on the first page or take it one day at a time. In the end, I chose to write it just as I planned the trip. I mapped it out on a 30-day calendar for guidance, then adjusted the itinerary as we went along. In the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing more insights into the Sucia Card, as well as other unforgettable experiences, insider tips, and recommendations for must-see sights to enhance your Japanese adventure. This journey is only just beginning, with plenty more to discover.
