Nai's crazy 3 week trip to Japan day 0: traveling violations err reflections

My second trip to Japan in my life. Last year, this time I traveled to Tokyo, experienced the people, the places and the culture. For most, it would be quite an eye opening experience, to be immersed in such a different world compared to what they are use to in the united states, but for me, since I am Asian and being so well traveled, it was not such a shock, however I was still impressed as to truly experience the culture here. The kindness of the culture is something the rest of the world should take as a lesson to how one group of people can not only survive on such a small land but thrive and become one of the worlds super power. The ability to work in unison in such a tight space, where other countries couldn't do a tenth of what Japan has done with lands and resources that go far beyond their tiny island is something to be marveled at. That is what impressed me the most, how this bustling metropolis can function so efficiently.

Now I am traveling to Japan for the second time in my life, this time a longer period to experience the world of Japan, the learn, to take cues and to enjoy my time here. Last time I spent 8 full days here, traveling for 10 days. This time I am here for 16 days , traveling for 18 days. It was a rush, and experience, but best of all, with family here, we were able to travel freely, not as tourists but as a immersive experience. We traveled from place to place soaking in the most in the limited time we had there. Besides seeing sites, I wanted to experience the food Japan had to offer from their native cuisine to their takes on American classics like hamburger and pizza.

This year my wife traveled here ahead of me as she did last year and acquired an apartment rented to foreign visitors. This 29 sq meter place ran 70,000 yen a month, which translates to roughly $800, which is not bad for a place in Tokyo. Typically servicing travelers, this is an excellent opportunity to live and study under your visas.

With the extra time, I am anticipating a more relaxing visit to this wonderful country, visiting not only sights but to really have a better chance to immerse myself and really see what Tokyo has to offer. Compared to last year's speed blast, this will be a much more relaxing trip.

Above that, I would like to see how the people here have received from the recent devastation that happened on March 11. It's not something one can ignore and we have seen the country react, come together and start the rebuilding process. It is a testament to the resolution of this country as just today it is reported that they their spiraling decrease in GDP has shown better than analyst predicted and lint to Japan as a stabilizing force in the world economy. It could have been far worse that predicted.

Rocked by constant aftershocks, a looming nuclear disaster, loss of their export prowess technologically and radiation, and loss of tourism, it will be interesting to see how my trip will be like one year later. Already I've seen first hand how the disaster has affected friends I know as their planned trip back this year was canceled by their tour company. I can only anticipate that from what I see, it will be business as usual. The transportation system still runs, the shops still sell goods and the ramen is still consumed.

This year, I'm flying on ANA airlines instead of delta. Already I see the difference in service. Asian carriers definitely outshine international carriers by a longshot. Taking the redeye, flying out of LAX was much better since it gives you a chance to acclimate to the change in time. Seeping for the first six hours helps in combating jet lag. Wine, beer and Chu-Hi (a popular citrus alcoholic drink) helps too. Many wonder how one can sit on a plane for 12 hours, especially for someone with ADHD. The red eye flight helps but most importantly one can not do it so well without an iPad.

Last year, my challenge after I land was to buy a bus ticket to Shinjuku. This year, being familiar with their daunting subway and rail lines (it's not as bad as it looks) I will be taking public transportation, saving nearly $100 on the trip. All it takes it to get on the right train with my suitcase, transfer at the right station to the JR line, get off at the right station, make my way to the proper subway, get on board and ride it to Motohasunumo, get off an walk to Michi's apartment. Transit time 1:05 at a cost of 690 yen. No problem? That will be a fun challenge.

It is with that, My first blog post about day 0 of my trip back to Japan. Many more to come with pictures, cultural anecdotes, and even video! Please leave your comments as the will be very much appreciated.



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Location:Itabashi,Japan