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Traveling to Tokyo...-age (two week trip) - tips?
- Thread starter Articate
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WasteLand Soldier
Banned
conversion fees? 'the hell? :lol even just paying at a restaraunt say? i gotta check with my bank on that one. hell i need to call verizon to make sure i'll have a plan for there. hoping i'll be able to use my GPS and google maps
Valkyr Junkie
Member
Fusebox said:
Apparently converting to yen before leaving gives you the worst rate. This site has a lot input on exchanging yen, and apparently exchanging traveler's cheques inside of Japan is the best way to go in most cases.
http://traveljapanblog.com/wordpress/2009/08/changing-dollars-into-yen-2009-update/
tacotime77
Neo Member
Take no knives and no weapons. None.
Aruarian Reflection
Chauffeur de la gdlk
Shirokun said:
No it's not, that scene was filmed in Park Hyatt Tokyo. I absolutely love this hotel by the way. Very luxurious and exclusive atmosphere to the whole place. I ate dinner there but would love to spend a night.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government building in Shinjuku also has a free observatory, if you're feeling cheap. If not, check out the Mori building at Roppongi Hills for one of the best views in the city. Tokyo Tower is neat, but it's not very high, and you can't see Tokyo Tower.
The Met Gov observatory is nice because it's free, but I would suggest also visiting the Sky Deck at Roppongi Hills. It costs money, but it's open-air and has splendid views.
Aruarian Reflection
Chauffeur de la gdlk
Found some great photos of the Sky Deck in Roppongi Hills
http://tokyo.japantimes.co.jp/post/en/20/Mori+Tower+Sky+Deck.html
Out of the 3 main observatories in Tokyo, I would recommend this one the most
http://tokyo.japantimes.co.jp/post/en/20/Mori+Tower+Sky+Deck.html
Out of the 3 main observatories in Tokyo, I would recommend this one the most
demosthenes
Member
Just wondering for those that have gone. Best airline to get to Japan and how early should I plan to buy tickets?
distantmantra
Member
My wife and are going to be in Tokyo April 4th through the 13th. On our honeymoon in 2006 we spent a lot of time in Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima and Miyajima. This time around we're planning on visiting Kamakura, Yokohama, Enoshima and Nikko in addition to wandering around the city. We're even going to a Giants game with DCharlie.
Tricky I Shadow
Banned
This thread is perfect for me since Ive wanted to go to Tokyo for a really long time....but just recently Ive thought about it seriously and I think Im gonna finally just put my foot down and go all by myself!
Im considering doing a Contiki Tour (not even sure if you can do one in Tokyo!), but if I were to go in May would that be too late for the Cherry Blossoms? What would be the latest I could go to get a glimpse?
Im considering doing a Contiki Tour (not even sure if you can do one in Tokyo!), but if I were to go in May would that be too late for the Cherry Blossoms? What would be the latest I could go to get a glimpse?
Valkyr Junkie
Member
Tricky I Shadow said:This thread is perfect for me since Ive wanted to go to Tokyo for a really long time....but just recently Ive thought about it seriously and I think Im gonna finally just put my foot down and go all by myself!
Im considering doing a Contiki Tour (not even sure if you can do one in Tokyo!), but if I were to go in May would that be too late for the Cherry Blossoms? What would be the latest I could go to get a glimpse?
http://japan-guide.com/e/e2011.html
You're gonna need to go to Hokkaido.
Jack Random
Member
This man speaks the truth.SnowWolf said:
That said, Keio plaza is quite a nice hotel in its own right, and a hell of a lot more affordable then the Park Hyatt. I've stayed at the Keio on my last two trips and thoroughly recommend it.
Astute listeners from the Gaming side may remember it's also where Giant Bomb stayed during TGS.
The observation deck of the Sunshine 60 building in Ikebukuro is also pretty awesome. Plus, you could also visit Namja Town when you are in that area and try to to eat some weird ice cream flavors in Ice Cream City. Last time I was there, I tried the garlic, chicken and crab ice cream. The chicken one was pretty good actually haha.
Mecha_Infantry
Banned
How good is Tokyo /Japan for a single traveller.
Everyone I know can't afford it or want to do a lads holiday in some shitty Greek/Cyrpiot island. I do have a friend there who I talk to in and out, I used to go to uni with him and he is a fellow geek, also I know a girl there who I used to go to college with who wanted me to go and visit her. So it might be time!
Everyone I know can't afford it or want to do a lads holiday in some shitty Greek/Cyrpiot island. I do have a friend there who I talk to in and out, I used to go to uni with him and he is a fellow geek, also I know a girl there who I used to go to college with who wanted me to go and visit her. So it might be time!
rykomatsu
Member
Tricky I Shadow said:
Late April in the Kanto area is probably the latest you'd be able to see Cherry Blossoms, and even then, you won't see much. They should be hitting full bloom in a week, give or take. If a strong storm comes through, it'll shorten the season quite a bit too.
Mecha_Infantry said:
Depends on what you mean by "good". Traveling around Japan, single, isn't bad for the most part, especially if you enjoy spontaneity. If something catches your eye, you're free to satiate your curiosity. There is a downside to single travel, however...and that's lodging. A lot (though not all) charge per night per person, double occupancy, rather than per room...so it really blows in that regards if you're traveling alone...
shanshan310
Member
Jack Random said:
um.. isn't the visa what you need to be able to arrive? Sure the passport gives you the ability to travel, but a visa is the authoization to enter the country. You need one BEFORE you get to the country. I went to the consulate to get mine last week, and it'll be finished processing tomorrow. If you plan on getting out of the airport its probably a good idea... its really important.
I leave in 6 Days >.< Is tokyo a nice place to live? I know most people are going over on holiday..
shamo42
Member
shanshan310 said:
Depending on what's your nationality you don't need a visa before boarding if you don't stay more than 3 months. Germans can even stay up to 6 months. You just fill out a form in the airplane where you declare not to carry illegal items or huge amounts of cash and get a visa after landing. It's a matter of minutes.
I know a girl who made a short trip to SKorea after 3 months, reentered Japan and got another visa for 3 months. Don't rely on this to always work as Japanese authorities are not stupid. IMO it's just best to go to the immigration office and ask about a possible extension of your current visa. If you never got into any trouble and have good reasons, they might grant your wish.
My favorite observatories in Tokyo:
1) WTC Building
Great view. And there are tables. You can bring some food from nearby convinis and sit with friends (or date) in front of the huge windows while watching the sun slowly set behind Mt.Fuji.
2) Roof of Mori Tower
Great view. No windows. Couples get a free cover to protect from the wind.
3) Tokyo metropolitan government building
Free. Nice view. Useful Tourist information center on the lower floors. The building itself is in an awesome location.
4) Tokyo Tower. Not worth it imo. Tons of people, especially on the weekend or national holidays.
Haven't tried the Sunshine 60 building's observatory in Ikebukuo yet. Thanks for the tip.
distantmantra
Member
shanshan310 said:
Residents of many countries don't need to get a visa to enter Japan as a tourist.
If you're from the US, you can stay in Japan for up to 90 days as a tourist without a visa. When you arrive at Narita, you show your passport and you're granted landing permission, which is stamped in your passport, allowing you remain in country for up to 90 days. I noticed that you're from Australia, you can stay up to 6 months without applying for a visa, as long as you're not planning on going to school or working in Japan.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Japan
distantmantra
Member
We're leaving in less than two weeks, and I need some recommendations for places to eat in Tokyo. Cheap (2,000 yen or less per person) is preferable, but we might splurge and do an expensive dinner one night.
distantmantra
Member
Zoe said:
Both! Tempura places especially. I have a nice list of ramen, tonkatsu and okonomiyaki places already.
We weren't very adventurous last time around. Ate dinner at three or four Japanese places, but ended up falling back on the safety net of Mos Burger and 7-11 a lot.
Aurelius
Member
Im going this summer (16/7 until 9/8). This will be my second trip to Japan and Ill be staying a week in Tokyo before heading out to Hiroshima, Osaka, Kyoto en Hakone.
I was planning on going with my girlfriend. But since we broke up, I will be going alone. Plane ticket and hotels are booked en payed for anyway. I find it both exciting and scary at the same time.
I was planning on going with my girlfriend. But since we broke up, I will be going alone. Plane ticket and hotels are booked en payed for anyway. I find it both exciting and scary at the same time.
Aruarian Reflection
Chauffeur de la gdlk
distantmantra said:
Maguro Bito is the best kaiten sushi (conveyor belt sushi) restaurant in Japan, as voted in a TV poll. Can't say I disagree, the quality is amazing. It's located a short walk away from the Asakusa Sensoji temple so if you're going to be in the area anyway, I would stop by for a meal. Not difficult to google for directions.
distantmantra
Member
Aurelius said:
If you didn't go last time, you definitely need to visit Miyajima.
distantmantra
Member
Aurelius said:
My wife and I stayed at the Kinsuikan Honkan on Miyajima on our honeymoon back in 2006. It was an expensive evening, but worth every yen.
http://www.kinsuikan.jp/en/miyajima.html
Litflynt912
Member
Mecha_Infantry said:
I went to Tokyo by myself in December for 5 days. I only spoke about a handful of phrases and stayed in Akihabara and leeched off of the Yamanote line during the week I was there...
I exchange about $500 here before I left (as an american express customer, that service is free, fyi) and in Japan, the post offices have international ATM's and are in english(note: the ATM's in the P.O. will not look like normal ATM's but like Mecha-like Trash Cans...go with it..)
It was easy...just keep your head up and don't be afraid to point! : )
when it came to eating, curry/noodle places have vending machines where you buy your ticket and just hand it to them and they make what you bought (usually have pictures to match)
you'll be fine...go for it..there's always a million reasons not to do something
Litflynt912
Member
Gibbo said:
sorry to hear that...hit up a combini and enjoy some japanese programming!
distantmantra
Member
Anyone going to Japan shortly should keep an eye on the Dollar:Yen ratio... it went from $1:90.6 yen last night to $1:92 yen right now.
Valkyr Junkie
Member
I've had some developments in my planned Japan trip (see http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=387940 for the original thread). My friend has had to bailout due to his job, and I'm not sure if I should do this trip solo. This coinciding with an early cherry blossom season has me wondering if I should take this as a sign and just postpone until next year. It looks like the blossoms will have started falling from all of the popular sites within a few days of my arrival. I guess one plus is that since I'll be home in April, I can try and buy a house before the housing credit expires :lol
What say you, GAF? Wait until 2011, or go it alone and business hotel it up?
What say you, GAF? Wait until 2011, or go it alone and business hotel it up?
distantmantra
Member
Valkyr Junkie said:
If you're getting to Japan April 2nd, you'll see plenty of cherry blossoms. I'd say go for it unless you're really nervous about going by yourself.
Dark Machine
Member
On top of all the recommendations here I'd have to recommend going to Nippori (it has two stations on the Yamanote). My guidebook (LP) had a great walk which takes you from one station to the other passing temples, shrines and the like, there's also a massive graveyard inhabited by an army of cats and a few ravens, it's quiet and cool as hell usually.
I went in Summer last year for Comiket. Stayed a week in Gotanda (handy for the train to the Big Sight) and it was one of the best holidays I've ever had, there's tons to do and I wished I'd stayed the extra week to see everything. As people have said Suica or PASMO passes are convenient and fun to use (I loved being able to just tap my wallet on the machines without even opening it) see if you can get a good food guide as Tokyo has some of the best eating places around. Akiba is somewhat disappointing since they de-pedestrianised it, but it's still great fun (harsh on your wallet though).
Also, one your way back, I'd personally recommend getting the train to Narita from Nippori. At Ueno, the platforms for the NEX and Skyliner are in a different station building that's 100 or so yards down the street, a pain if your carrying heavy luggage (like I was) and makes it weasy to miss the train. At Nippori, the two sections are connected by a bridge and are in the same building so it's much easier to transfer between trains. Also, on your way back don't be an eijit (like I nearly was) and REMEMBER how long it takes for the trains to reach Narita, Skyliner takes around 50 minutes and the Limited Express an Hour and a bit. Though they may have introduced other services since that are faster, (someone correct me if this is the case please). I nearly missed my flight because I slept in and underestimated how long it would take to get to the airport. Even though it's a Tokyo airport, it's really far away from Tokyo city centre (further than Heathrow in London or JFK in New York for example) so be aware!
You'll love it though.
I went in Summer last year for Comiket. Stayed a week in Gotanda (handy for the train to the Big Sight) and it was one of the best holidays I've ever had, there's tons to do and I wished I'd stayed the extra week to see everything. As people have said Suica or PASMO passes are convenient and fun to use (I loved being able to just tap my wallet on the machines without even opening it) see if you can get a good food guide as Tokyo has some of the best eating places around. Akiba is somewhat disappointing since they de-pedestrianised it, but it's still great fun (harsh on your wallet though).
Also, one your way back, I'd personally recommend getting the train to Narita from Nippori. At Ueno, the platforms for the NEX and Skyliner are in a different station building that's 100 or so yards down the street, a pain if your carrying heavy luggage (like I was) and makes it weasy to miss the train. At Nippori, the two sections are connected by a bridge and are in the same building so it's much easier to transfer between trains. Also, on your way back don't be an eijit (like I nearly was) and REMEMBER how long it takes for the trains to reach Narita, Skyliner takes around 50 minutes and the Limited Express an Hour and a bit. Though they may have introduced other services since that are faster, (someone correct me if this is the case please). I nearly missed my flight because I slept in and underestimated how long it would take to get to the airport. Even though it's a Tokyo airport, it's really far away from Tokyo city centre (further than Heathrow in London or JFK in New York for example) so be aware!
You'll love it though.
distantmantra
Member
Dark Machine said:
My wife and I actually stayed at the Annex Katsutaro Ryokan in Yanaka, which is a short walk from Nippori station back in 2006. We'll be staying there again on our upcoming trip (April 4th through the 13th). Here's a video of the walk through the Yanaka Ginza, ending right at our hotel. It's a great traditional neighborhood right in the heart of Tokyo.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43pqCbiKO6w
Aurelius
Member
A lot of people are recommending Ueno Park. Last time I was there it didnt really impress me. We went on a Friday evening and walked around the pound with the water lilies. There were al lot of food stalls and japanese girls wearing kimonos, but also a lot of homeless people.
Did I miss something? Did I go at the wrong time?
Did I miss something? Did I go at the wrong time?
distantmantra
Member
Aurelius said:
When I was there in 2006, it was 112-115 yen = 1 dollar.
WasteLand Soldier
Banned
do i need any type of power converters for outlets there? i mean i've imported systems and they work fine in the US but does it work the other way around?
rykomatsu
Member
distantmantra said:
Tsunahachi (つな八
is a pretty good tempura chain in the Tokyo area, albeit slightly pricey. Usually visit them atleast once on every trip I take out to Japan now.One thing I HIGHLY recommend (I seriously love this place) is called Takohachi (たこ八
. No relation to Tsunahachi...just coincidental. They serve something called Akashi-yaki which is remotely similar to Takoyaki, but it uses a much lighter batter made primarily of egg. This is dipped into a light fish broth before eating. Usually visit the one in Ueno Matsuzakaya 2 or 3 times every trip Basically considered to be the progenitor to takoyaki, but imho far better.- Status