Travel, Wine & Shoes

My first impression of Tokyo is clean, friendly and safe.  It was also very hot and humid with temperatures in the mid-30’s.  I was a travelling hot, sweaty mess again!

During my first morning wandering around, I noticed immediately that there weren’t any garbage cans and ended up carrying my empty Starbucks cup most of the morning.  A local explained why.  On March 20, 1995, a cult group released lab-grad Sarin in multiple Tokyo subway stations in plastic bags killing 13 people and injuring another 6,300 people.  Hence, garbage cans were removed.

Japan definitely warrants a return visit for more in depth exploration.  There are so many things to do and see.  Unfortunately, available time is always an issue and the weather didn’t cooperate with me.

About The Destination (Star Alliance Round The World)

Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the largest urban areas in the world.  Tokyo is the financial center of Japan and a blend of high-technology and tradition.  Tokyo is huge and a well-organized modern city.

The city landscape of Tokyo consists of temples and shrines, quiet nature reserves, historical buildings, futuristic architecture and neon lights.  The core of the city includes Chiyoda and Chuo.  This area features the impressive Imperial Palace, the national government buildings, the famous shopping area of Ginza, Tsukiji fish market, Akihabara electronics market and the historic Tokyo Station.  The quiet neighborhood of Asakusa has some must-see attractions such as the Sensoji Temple, the Nakamise-dōri shopping arcade, and the Golden Poo.  Nearby is the Ueno area, including the Ameyoko market.  A perfect spot to shop for traditional gifts and see a great Buddhist temple.  Another major attraction of the city is the Meiji Shrine, located in Shibuya.

Tokyo is a unique city that has something for everyone, busy shopping areas, famous nightlife, historical sights, quiet parks, and amazing scenery.

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the world’s highest free-standing broadcasting tower with observation decks that allow you to view Tokyo from the Skytree Tembo Galleria (450m) and the Tembo Deck (350m).

Tokyo Skytree

Senso-Ji

Imperial Palace

The Tokyo Imperial Palace is the main residence of the Imperial Family surrounded by a moat and park.

Mount Fuji

I booked a Day Trip through Get Your Guide called Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Kawaguchi Lake, & Oshino Hakkai Day Trip.  Highlights of the tour are:

• Admire majestic vistas of Lake Kawaguchi and Mt. Fuji from the panoramic ropeway
• Marvel at the stunning reflection of Mt. Fuji in the tranquil water of Kawaguchi
• Enjoy the enchanting beauty of Oshino Hakkai and its eight crystal-clear springs
• Dive into Japanese culture with a matcha-making session and savor a cup
• Capture scenic snapshots of Mt. Fuji from the famous Lawson store in Kawaguch

 

I ended up on a tour with a different name and most of the same activities.  All in all it was good.  It was cloudy so I didn’t get to actually SEE Mount Fuji.  Our guide said there are about 90 days a year when Mount Fuji can be seen.  Additionally, traffic was bad which cut down on the time at each location and then we had rain.

Mount Fuji is there behind the clouds!

Out & About

Where I Stayed ~ Courtyard Tokyo Station

Delight in our modern Tokyo hotel near the train station

Experience Tokyo, Japan, like a local at Courtyard Tokyo Station.  Centrally located in downtown Tokyo, our hotel near Tokyo Station in Japan is perfect for any business traveler seeking comfort, convenience and value.  Only moments from our hotel, the JR lines and Tokyo Station bullet trains provide easy access to the city and beyond.  Shop at the Ginza, which is an easy 10-minute walk from our hotel.  Our lobby’s comfortable seating and communal tables provide the ideal setting for impromptu work sessions.  Hotel rooms include deluxe beds, flat-screen TVs, room service, and well-lit desks.  Contemporary meeting rooms set an impressive stage for seminars and shareholder events in Tokyo, Japan.  Our outdoor seating area provides an enticing gathering spot for travelers and local office workers alike to indulge in light refreshments or specialties from our street-level restaurant and café.  Find everything you need to move forward from our central hotel at Courtyard Tokyo Station.

Hotel Overview

This location was perfect as I was only a couple blocks from the train station.

The Lava Rock restaurant was on the main floor and I was given a table at the back of the bar.  Burger and fries were good.

I had booked a “Cozy Double” at 16 sqm, but they upgraded me to a Queen at 19 sqm.

A very small room, but I had more than enough room for me and my backpack!

Happy Travels!

 

Japan