Tokyo Travel Guide: A Helpful Review for First-Timers

This trip was my first time visiting Japan. Before this, Japan had never crossed my mind. I was more of a Korea enthusiast. However, as more and more people around me went and I read reviews from those who had been there, my desire to go grew stronger.

This marks the beginning of the ticket booking process. We opted to fly with AirAsia X. If you're a novice, you'll likely have numerous questions, such as which airline is preferable, full service or low cost, connecting or direct flights. The questions are endless. As a result, I'd like to share my strategy, which I believe necessitates first considering your lifestyle. I'm a bit lazy, and the thought of waiting for a connecting flight, even for a few hours, is unbearable. I simply want to travel and sleep until I arrive. In terms of service, I don't require much; a screen is unnecessary because I prefer to fly at night and sleep.

AirAsia: A Budget-Friendly Option for Frequent Travelers

AirAsia frequently offers attractive promotions, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers. While some might argue that paying a few thousand more for a full-service airline is worthwhile, the cost difference can be significant. Based on personal experience, the difference in service quality may not always justify the additional expense.

Ultimately, the choice between a budget airline and a full-service carrier depends on individual preferences and priorities. If convenience and comfort are paramount, and budget allows, opting for a full-service airline might be preferable. However, for those who prioritize affordability and are willing to compromise on certain amenities, AirAsia offers a compelling value proposition.

Before making a decision, it's crucial to establish a budget for the flight ticket and identify the most suitable airline based on travel dates and times. Additionally, factors such as flight schedules and overall travel experience should be considered.

The journey from Bangkok to Narita (Tokyo) takes approximately 5 hours. Japan time is 2 hours ahead of Thailand. Upon arrival, the most common concern, which may deter some from visiting, is immigration. I have spoken with many individuals who desired to travel but ultimately decided against it due to immigration concerns. Based on my personal experience, I can assure you that if you intend to visit and adhere to the law, you will be granted entry. Even in Korea, I was not questioned. Immigration officers have a duty to perform, and their demeanor is influenced by our actions. If we are genuine tourists, they will welcome us. Whether it's Japan, Korea, or any other country, there's no need to be afraid. When I encounter immigration, I do the following:

1. Cotton meticulously prepared all necessary documents, including salary certificates, travel plans, and hotel bookings. While seasoned travelers may advise against such thoroughness, first-timers should not take chances. It is always better to be prepared, as documents serve as valuable proof if questioned. Even frequent travelers cannot guarantee a smooth experience, so it's best to err on the side of caution for peace of mind. If not asked, all the better, but having the documents readily available ensures a stress-free journey.

2. When filling out the forms, be careful with your handwriting. If they can't read it, you'll definitely be questioned. Write clearly and legibly. It's best to start writing on the plane. The flight attendants will distribute the forms. There are two forms to be submitted to immigration and customs. You can find examples of how to fill them out online, as many people have shared them. There are also examples on the plane. So, make sure to bring a pen with you.

3. English and Popular Questions

For those who are not fluent in English, it is recommended to read some basic questions in advance, as they are often simple and straightforward. These questions typically include inquiries about the purpose of the visit, who the visitor is traveling with, and the accommodation arrangements. If traveling in a group, it is advisable for everyone to be aware of the travel plan and accommodation details. Avoid relying solely on one person for this information.

Upon arrival, proceed to immigration before the tour group to avoid long queues. Approaching the counter, present your passport, maintain eye contact with the immigration officer, and offer a polite smile. This simple gesture often suffices for a smooth passage. Immigration officers can usually discern genuine tourists from those with other intentions. Having a clean passport history is also beneficial, as I have personally experienced visa-free entry into Korea without any inquiries. It is crucial to project confidence and demonstrate your genuine tourist intentions. Overthinking or dwelling on negative experiences can hinder your progress. Remember, even if questioned, providing clear evidence of your travel plans will facilitate a smooth entry. Hesitation or fear should not deter you from pursuing your travel aspirations. Instead, focus on thorough preparation and maintain a respectful demeanor. Adhere to appropriate attire, especially for women, as entering a country is akin to engaging in official proceedings. Opt for modest clothing during immigration and save revealing outfits for leisure activities. This approach not only enhances your chances of a swift entry but also minimizes the likelihood of unnecessary inquiries. By presenting yourself in a respectable and well-dressed manner, you increase your odds of a seamless immigration experience.

Navigating Japan's railway system may seem daunting at first glance, with its intricate network and numerous lines. However, fear not, for the signage is comprehensive and available in both English and Japanese, ensuring a smooth journey. Unlike Thailand, where signage can be inconsistent, Japan's railway stations provide clear and consistent directions throughout your travels. After clearing customs, simply follow the prominent "Train" signs and descend the escalator. The signage is so intuitive that you won't even need to refer to the screenshots you may have saved from other travelers' reviews.

To enter the city, I stayed at Ueno. Therefore, the most convenient way for me to get from Narita Airport to Ueno was to take the Keisei Skyliner. Following the signs, I found the ticket counter and purchased my ticket. The front of the counter displayed prices in English, Thai, and Chinese. I picked up a price sheet and showed it to the staff, who then informed me of the departure time for the next train. When I went, the next train was scheduled to arrive in 7 minutes. I decided not to take it because I was afraid I wouldn't make it to the platform in time, and indeed, I wouldn't have. The trains here are very punctual, so try to be on time or you might miss your train.

Cotton purchased a one-way ticket from Narita to Ueno, as she will be taking a local train on her return trip and wants to explore Narita first. Travelers can also purchase round-trip tickets. Additionally, tourists can purchase a Tokyo subway pass for convenient access to the underground transportation system.

Next, check the time. 10:02 is the arrival time. The train is very punctual, as I mentioned. Don't get distracted by your phone. Other trains may also be parked at the station, so don't get on the wrong one. Only board this train at this time. Also, listen to the announcements. 10:43 is the arrival time. The number 03 indicates the carriage number. Make sure you stand in the correct spot. The platform will have numbers indicating the carriage positions. 09A is your seat number. When you get off, listen for the announcement indicating the arrival or keep an eye on the signs to see which station you're at. The signs will be in both Japanese and English, so don't worry about getting off at the wrong station.

When booking a hotel, choose one that is easily accessible from the airport and within walking distance. Remember, when traveling abroad, your luggage will be large and heavy. I chose the Ueno district because it is easily accessible from the airport, with a single transfer. The hotel we stayed at was the Apa Hotel Keisei Ueno. Upon arriving at Ueno, exit at the Ikenohata Side, cross the street, and the hotel is right there. It is also close to the Tokyo subway and JR lines, making it convenient for traveling to other destinations. Japanese hotels typically allow check-in at 3 pm and check-out at 11 am. If you arrive early, you can leave your luggage and return to check in later. You can then go sightseeing.

Most Japanese hotels are small, which is not a problem for me as I only use them to sleep and recharge for sightseeing. However, those who prefer spacious accommodations may need to look elsewhere, which will likely come at a higher cost. Hotels are generally expensive, but budget-conscious travelers can opt for capsule hotels or guesthouses. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual priorities. If you prioritize spending money on sightseeing and are flexible with accommodation, capsule hotels or guesthouses are viable options. However, if you value privacy and convenience, a slightly more expensive hotel like APA might be a better choice.

Although the room is small, it is very comfortable. The bed is comfortable, the pillows are soft, and everything you need is provided, including towels, a hairdryer, toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, shampoo (Shiseido brand!), a razor, and hair ties. You don't need to bring anything from home, saving you luggage space. The housekeeper cleans the room every day.

When choosing a hotel, compare prices on platforms like Booking.com or Agoda. New users should carefully read the details, such as prepayment and free cancellation policies, including deadlines. Print or save your booking confirmation for easy access. Before booking, compare options and consider your travel plan, choosing a hotel that is conveniently located and accessible. It's crucial to plan your itinerary before booking your accommodation to avoid complications.

Navigating Tokyo's extensive railway system may seem daunting at first, especially for international visitors accustomed to simpler, single-line networks. However, fear not! Purchasing tickets and navigating the system is surprisingly straightforward. Clear signage, including English translations, guides passengers throughout their journey. Even those with limited English proficiency can easily navigate the system, as ticket purchase involves simple vocabulary and clear symbols. The key is knowing the destination's name in Japanese.

For instance, Cotton traveled from Ueno Station to visit Sensoji Temple, which is located at Asakusa Station. Cotton used the subway and opened the Tokyo Subway app to search for the station name. Many people have reviewed the station names, suggesting where to get off to visit the temple.

From the picture, we need to take the Ginza line, which is orange. We just follow the signs. Now we are at Ueno G16, and we need to get off at Asakusa G19. Once we get on the train, it will show both the number and the name of the station. We can also check the exit. For example, Sensoji Temple is at exits 1 and 3.

In the event that you need to transfer lines at your destination, for example, from Asakusa Station to Akihabara Station, there is one transfer required. From G19, exit at G15 Ueno-hirokoji and follow the gray signs for the Hibiya Line. Get off at H15 Akihabara. Transfer signs are located throughout the station, and the lines are connected, so you do not need to exit and re-enter with your ticket.

If you haven't been to Tokyo before, you might be confused just by reading this. I was too, but trust me, it's not that difficult once you're there. If I could do it, anyone can. There are plenty of signs, which is reassuring, and it's much less confusing than Thailand. You just need to do your research beforehand and figure out which areas you want to visit and which stations you need to get off at. There are plenty of reviews online, so read them carefully and plan your trip well. You won't get lost, I promise. The same goes for the JR lines. Just figure out where you need to go and follow the signs. The only slightly confusing station is Shinjuku, which is huge, crowded, and has many lines. If you start to feel overwhelmed, find a quiet corner, take a breath, and look at the signs and your plan carefully. Don't stand in the middle of the way or block people's paths.

The first stop on our journey was Sensoji Temple, also known as the "Red Lantern Temple" among Thai people. The temple was bustling with both international and Japanese visitors. There were numerous vendors selling souvenirs, snacks, and local delicacies. The lines at some of the popular shops were quite long. I visited in May, when the temperature was around 20 degrees Celsius, making it neither too hot nor too cold. However, the sun was intense, and the crowds added to the feeling of being overwhelmed. Based on reviews I had read, I learned that to avoid the crowds, it's best to visit early in the morning or at night. However, during these times, most of the vendors are closed. Nevertheless, the atmosphere is beautiful in its own way, as the daytime crowds can be overwhelming.

Akihabara: A Paradise for Gamers and Anime Fans

Akihabara, the renowned district in Tokyo, left us in awe. Even for someone who isn't a model collector or anime enthusiast, the sheer volume and variety of merchandise was astounding. From the countless shops overflowing with figurines and collectibles to the endless rows of arcade games, Akihabara is a paradise for anyone with a passion for gaming and anime.

The sheer abundance of claw machines filled with adorable plushies and figures was particularly captivating. Their irresistible charm proved too tempting, leading to an unplanned expenditure. After two attempts, we managed to snag a prize, affectionately named "Aki" after the district itself. The staff's enthusiastic congratulations and genuine joy upon our success were a heartwarming contrast to the often indifferent service encountered elsewhere.

However, our shopping spree didn't end there. We found ourselves drawn into numerous stores, each offering a unique and tempting selection of goods. The allure of the merchandise proved irresistible, leading to a series of purchases that left us with a slightly lighter wallet.

Despite the occasional frustration of failing to win at the claw machines, our experience in Akihabara was undeniably positive. The vibrant atmosphere, the friendly staff, and the sheer abundance of exciting merchandise made it a truly memorable visit.

On the second day, we visited the Harajuku and Shibuya districts. We started from Ueno G16 on the Ginza line (orange) and got off at Omote-sando G02 station. We then changed to the Chiyoda line (green) and got off at Meiji-jingumae'Harajuku' C03 station, exit 2. Our first stop was the Meiji Shrine. The shrine is vast and lush, and it's hard to believe it's located in Tokyo. The trees are magnificent, and despite the crowds, the spacious grounds made for a comfortable stroll. There are also food and beverage options within the shrine, making it a perfect place to rest if you get tired.

We then continued on to Harajuku, the fashion district of Japan, located in Takeshita, the main street of the Harajuku district. Cotton walked while opening the map.

This passage describes the importance of internet access while traveling and the author's experience using a specific SIM card.

Here's the translated text:

"To navigate, you can open a map, set a pin, and follow the directions. Therefore, internet access is crucial. I chose to use an AIS sim2Fly SIM card, which I purchased at an AIS shop for 399 baht. It offers 4GB of non-stop data for 8 days. Based on my experience, it worked well without any issues. I opted for a SIM card because it seemed easier and more convenient than renting a pocket Wi-Fi."

Upon arrival, the short walk was filled with shops on both sides, making it easy to stop and browse. The street was bustling with people and offered a wide variety of adorable items. Even the Daiso store was filled with cute finds, making me wonder why our local Daiso isn't the same (haha). From Takeshita Street, walk straight and turn right onto Meji Dori. On the left, you'll find the Line Friends Store and ABC Mart. I spent some time in both stores and ended up buying items from each. Shoe prices in Japan are generally lower than in Thailand, so if you're visiting, be sure to check out ABC Mart. As far as I could tell, there's an ABC Mart in every district, making them as ubiquitous as 7-Eleven stores.

Following the map, I continued walking to Cat Street, a narrow street connecting Harajuku and Shibuya, approximately 1 kilometer long. The walk didn't feel long because there was always something to see, and I wanted to walk more instead of taking the train. It was also cheaper! This street is called Cat Street because it was said to have been home to many cats in the past, although there are none now. Most of the shops sell cute cat-related items, making it a charming little street.

We walked for a while and took breaks because we bought a lot of things and it was quite heavy to carry all the way to Shibuya. So we started looking for a train station to store our belongings in a locker. There are lockers at the station that cost around 400 yen depending on the size. I recommend using them, otherwise everything will be messy and it will be difficult to take pictures while holding a lot of things. However, you have to remember where you left your belongings and where the entrance is, otherwise you won't be able to find them when you come back. After leaving our things, we walked for a while and arrived at the Shibuya Crossing. There were so many people, everyone waiting for the signal to cross the street. Some were taking pictures and videos, and some were even dancing. But we also have to be careful not to get in the way of people who are actually crossing the street. We also have to be good tourists, because some people don't care about anyone else.

He then walked to the statue of Hachiko, the loyal and faithful dog, who is very popular and has a long line of people waiting to take pictures with him.

After finishing the activity, we went shopping and looked for food along the way. There were so many things to see in this area. I forgot to mention that there are restrooms everywhere, so you don't have to worry. They are easy to find, so you can walk around comfortably without any worries. Their management system is quite convenient for tourists like us.

Cotton does not have many pictures of food because she rarely eats anything. In the morning, she has a sandwich and milk, which lasts until 4 pm. During the day, she drinks water, as there are many vending machines around. She rarely sits in restaurants or eats anything that is considered good. She enjoys walking so much that she forgets to eat. In fact, she has made a plan of what to eat in this area, but when she is hungry, she stops at the nearest place. She prioritizes convenience and does not put pressure on herself to wait in line or eat at a specific place.

Most evenings, I would return to the area around Ueno Station. The Ameyoko Market is nearby, offering a wide variety of food options, so I would typically have my main meal in the evening. There are also many souvenir shops, including the famous "Purple Building." I enjoy Ueno because it offers everything you could need without the overwhelming crowds of Shinjuku or Shibuya. It's a comfortable place to walk around without feeling rushed.

In Japan, it gets dark early, and by 8 pm, most shops are closed. However, it gets bright as early as 4 or 5 am. We don't have any plans to go out at night because it feels a bit scary, like the yakuza in the movies. We'll probably be back at the hotel by 9 or 10 pm.

On the third day, we woke up around eight or nine o'clock and left the hotel around ten. Every morning, we went to the 7-Eleven next to the hotel and bought food to eat at Ueno Park. We sat there and relaxed, watching Japanese people pass by. Fai felt that she liked the society here and was more impressed by the people than the tourist attractions. They seemed friendly, polite, and orderly, even in small details. It would take too long to describe everything, but she wanted to remind Thai tourists that while we often criticize Chinese tourists, we ourselves can be loud, disrespectful of rules, eat while walking, complain loudly, and not queue. Just because we do these things in Thailand doesn't mean we should allow others to criticize Thailand for being rude. We should also learn from the good things we see while traveling and apply them back home. After watching the Japanese way of life for a while, we felt a bit envious that things weren't always like this in Thailand. But eventually, it was time to move on.

Today, we will visit Kawagoe, pronounced "Kawago-e," located near Tokyo. It is a charming old town with a nostalgic atmosphere, and it seems to be quite popular these days, attracting many visitors. It is recommended to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds, but even if you arrive later, the crowds are still manageable. The journey is a bit confusing, but not too difficult.

I don't remember what station I got off at after Ueno, but I needed to take the blue Tobu-Tojo line to Kawagoe Station from Ikebukuro Station. I didn't buy any passes in Kawagoe, so I didn't take any transportation. I walked again as usual. It was sunny but the wind was cool and comfortable.

On the way back, there was a slight scare when my card wouldn't work. It seemed something was wrong, so I informed the staff. It turned out I needed to pay extra, probably because I miscalculated the price. Haha! As for English, it's rarely used, Fai. Sometimes, the Japanese accent makes it even harder to understand, especially since my English isn't great. But in the end, we'll be able to communicate. Don't worry. Learn some simple words and travel vocabulary. Nowadays, it's so easy with our phones, and the Japanese are always willing to help.

We continued our walk to the Shinjuku district. Although I didn't visit many places, each one involved a lot of walking, leaving me with sore feet and back. I had previously purchased pain relief patches, which I found online and were highly recommended. They lived up to the hype and were the item I bought the most. When applied, they provide a cooling sensation followed by warmth, promoting restful sleep and pain-free mornings.

This is another factor to consider when deciding whether to join a tour or travel independently. These factors can help you make a decision. If you are young and adventurous like Fai, you may prefer to travel independently and explore on your own. However, if you are traveling with a family, especially with elderly or young children, a tour may be more convenient. Tours offer transportation and reduce the need for walking, which can be helpful for those with limited mobility. While tours offer convenience, the overall experience can be different from independent travel. The experiences gained from each option are also distinct. For those who are physically able, independent travel is highly recommended. Don't be afraid to get lost or make mistakes. Technology has advanced significantly, and there are many resources available to help you navigate and plan your trip.

Back in Shinjuku, the young people here are more stylish than in other areas, like Siam in our country. This area is quite large, and if you get lost and confused, this is probably the place. 55555 When I came here, I stopped by to see Godzilla for a bit. It took me a while to find it because the alleys and streets are so confusing. But as I said, if you have internet and open the map, you won't get lost. 5555

The next morning, as Cotton had an early flight at nine o'clock, she chose to stay near Narita Airport. However, Narita is not just an airport. Nowadays, it seems that they are also trying to present that there are many beautiful places to visit. Cotton chose to stay at the APA chain again, as they had a bus to the airport in the morning. She opted for convenience once again. We left Ueno around 10:30 am, checked out, and dragged our luggage. We chose to take the Keisei Line again, but this time the regular one for 840 yen. We got off at Narita Station. As we were not in a hurry, we took the regular train, which took about an hour. We enjoyed the view. If you want to visit the sights, get off at this station. But if you are going to the airport, don't get off yet. It will tell you the terminal when you get there.

Left my luggage at the hotel as usual. Went to FamilyMart to grab a quick bite because I was too lazy to walk far. We had to take the JR train to Sawara, but the food at these kinds of shops is surprisingly good! They give you a lot of ingredients for the price, unlike back home. And since I'm not picky about food, I don't really care about eating at specific restaurants when I'm in Japan, so I usually end up at places like this. 😂 But for those who like to eat at famous restaurants, you can always look up information online or try some unique places that haven't been reviewed yet. Personally, when I choose a restaurant, I don't really care how many reviews it has. I just try it out and see what happens. But most of the time, the food is delicious anyway.

Translation:

After a satisfying meal, we embarked on our journey from JR Narita to Sawara. However, the station lacked English signage, leading us to navigate somewhat blindly. Consulting our map for the fare, we estimated it to be around 500 yen and deposited the coins. The wait for the train was lengthy, and the subsequent ride was equally long. The scenery consisted of trees and rice paddies, offering a glimpse of rural Japan. Upon arrival, we opted to forgo the bus and instead embarked on a walk. We strolled through the town, admiring the houses and cityscape. The walk was truly worthwhile. Upon reaching our destination, we were struck by its beauty. We envied the local residents. During our visit, the area was relatively uncrowded, with only a few Thai tourists present. This made for a comfortable stroll, accompanied by a cool breeze and, as always, strong sunshine. An earlier arrival or waiting for the sun to set would likely have enhanced the experience.

After returning to the hotel, I went to Narita Temple for food. It was about 1 kilometer away from the hotel, so I had to walk again. Haha. When I entered the temple, it was very beautiful and spacious. I went in the late afternoon and it got dark very quickly. I almost couldn't find my way out. Haha.

Waking up at 4 am to catch the 5:25 am bus. We need to book the bus during check-in. The bus arrived on time, and the driver provided excellent service. For AirAsia, the bus will be at Terminal 2 and will drop passengers off at Terminal 3 before continuing to Terminals 3, 2, and 1. After getting off the bus, proceed to Counter N on the 3rd floor. Be mindful of the weight restrictions, as Japan weighs everything, including carry-on luggage.

Time flies. I originally planned to climb Mount Fuji, but due to various circumstances, I was unable to do so. My plans change every day. However, I was able to see it briefly on the plane. If you want to see it on your way back, choose a seat on the right side. If the weather is good, you will definitely see it. I'm sure I'll be back again.

Ultimately, I encourage you to take the leap and travel. Don't let worries hold you back. If you don't start, your passport will remain blank. Set a budget and create a plan. Everyone's budget and preferences are different. Read reviews and adapt them to your needs. Don't blindly follow others. Travel in a way that brings you joy, even if it differs from my own experiences. I enjoy this style of travel, and it brings me satisfaction. If you share my interests, feel free to follow my lead. However, if your lifestyle differs, explore other reviews. Remember, reviews are a source of knowledge and decision-making tools, but don't let them dictate your travel identity. Travel within your means and budget. You don't need to visit every attraction. Instead, focus on experiencing each place deeply, appreciating the local culture, and collecting positive memories along the way. Don't just take photos and move on. If you do these things, your trip will be truly worthwhile, and you'll return with valuable insights from your journey.