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I just got back from a week in Japan compliments of Uncle Sam. This was my first trip to Japan. I took a couple of days leave afterwards and stayed on in Tokyo. Some general observations:
1. Everyone was extremely polite.
2. I felt very safe there.
3. A lot of people speak english and if you ask they will be glad to help you.
4. Very easy and user friendly airport. We took the Exec bus limo to from the apt into Tokyo. Very efficient.
5. ATMs are easily accessable in Tokyo.
6. Subway system is easy to master but it is huge. Recommend the day pass for about $10 as it covers several public and private lines.
As for things to see and do in Tokyo visit the Asakusa area (temples, pagodas, and lots of souviners). I visited the fish market early in the morning and it was very busy. A unique experience. Also I went to a Japanese Public Bath and it was awesome. I went to Oedo-Onsen Monogatari. A lot of families were there and it was the one recommended in the Frommer's guide book. You can easily spend 4 hrs here with everyting they have including the resturaunts. I highly recommend it as this was my favorite thing. If you need directions let me know.
Near the Ueno train station there is a shopping area about 100 yds long with over 500 shops. It was wall to wall people.
There is the Rappongi area that has a lot of entertainment of all kinds. I will leave it at that. I got off the beaten path and just explored around the city. No real issues.
As for the flights they were long but it wasn't that bad. No plugs in coach for laptops, flights were packed. I have a portable DVD player and took an extra battery. It worked great.
As for food I tried to go native and eat local cusine as much as possible but you can get anything there. I was worried about the choices but no issues.
I have been home for 3 days and I am still messed up on sleeping and the time. Bottom line: I am looking forward to my next trip to Japan.
If you need help just let me know!
JDW
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