MILITARY RELATED Tokyo’s Armed Forces Resort: The New Sanno Hotel and Resort Posted on October 13, 2024November 8, 2024 This is one time when the hype is well-deserved. I highly recommend the New Sanno Hotel & Resort. It is available to active duty and retired U.S. military personnel eligible to use other Armed Forces Recreation Centers, as well as DoD civilian employees duty stationing in Japan, contractors on DoD orders to execute contracts for the U.S. Armed Forces stationed in Japan. Read more
PLACES How to Book the Shinkansen Train: Fast and Easy Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto Posted on October 11, 2024October 12, 2024 We’d heard it over and over—any visit to Japan would be incomplete without seeing Kyoto. But with only a week, and Tokyo already packed with plans, squeezing in Kyoto felt like a challenge. Determined to make the most of our time, we booked tickets on the Shinkansen from Tokyo to… Read more
PLACES Tokyo: Exploring the Biggest City on the Planet Posted on November 6, 2015October 18, 2024 Pickup a map to make sure you are buying the correct ticket or you may be blocked from boarding the train. Having access to all three will make travel easier below ground, but you can get around the city using only the metro, as long as you are diligent and plan accordingly. Like traffic above ground, the trains and the walking patterns run reverse to what you are used to. There are signs to help you if you forget. Read more
PLACES Shopping for Faux Food on Kappabashi Street Posted on November 1, 2015May 20, 2024 Ok, I admit it. From time to time, I find a few things more interesting than other people. Delve into the distinctive treasures of Kappabashi Street, home to remarkably lifelike food models. Crafted with the needs of travelers in mind, these models act as invaluable companions, aiding you in identifying menus across the globe, especially in places where the local language might be unfamiliar. These faux foods are great companions to menus and a cool souvenir from your travels to Japan. Kappabashi Street has become an off-the-beaten-track attraction for tourists looking to mingle with the locals, and that’s one of the reasons it made my list of must-sees. Read more
PLACES Tokyo Harbor Dinner Cruise: The Ultimate Guide to Night Views and Fine Dining Posted on October 29, 2015October 31, 2024 5 days exploring the quirky neighborhoods of Tokyo culminates on a sunset dinner cruise around Tokyo Bay with delicious food, awesome service and amenities, and a great picture window to see the Tokyo skyline. Read more