I'm helping a friend plan a trip from GUM to HNL, and he has the option of 11 hours total (arr. 10am, depart 9pm) in either KIX/Osaka or NRT/Tokyo.

He's traveling on a budget, thus $50 for the round trip Narita Express is a sizeable chunk, as is the express from KIX to Kyoto.... and local trains would eat precious time.

I'm looking to my fellow FTers for advice on: #1. which would be a better choice, and #2: what are things he can do or see within easy striking distane of the airport to make his first visit to Asia memorable?

Thanks!

[This message has been edited by Viajero Joven (edited 11-26-2002).]

- KIX is the better airport-- by far-- for passenger comforts (seating, restaurants, shops, atmosphere, ease of use, etc.)

- NRT is great because you can easily head to Narita town for a little sightseeing. For suggestions here, see:
http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/Forum30/HTML/000068.html
http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/Forum11/HTML/001099.html
http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/Forum11/HTML/005968.html
...and many, MANY more related threads

- From NRT, you could also easily access Tokyo for the day. Take the Keisei train to Ueno (if you'd like to visit Ueno park area) or Nippori (to connect to JR Yamanote Line). The Keisei train is actually not too long of a journey-- no more than 1:30 each way. I used this method of transport during my visit this past May. The fare is 1000 Yen each way. If you're willing to pay more, the Keisei Skyliner can get you to Nippori in 52 minutes for 1920 Yen. Keisei blows away the competition from a cost standpoint-- Narita Express is about 2890 Yen each way.

Please see:
http://www.asahi-net.or.jp/~mt5h-nitu/jrs/nex/skynex.htm

NRT would be the best by far. You can take the train from the lower level of the airport directly into Tokyo city. Or you can take a bus that takes a little longer due to traffic, but you see parts of Japan along the way. In Tokyo, you can take your pick of where to go, and easily switch subways. There are many many sights, and all are worth seeing on your first trip -- take your picks. Going up the Tokyo Tower might be worth it if it is clear. I would skip the Ginza in your short stop. Any of the main parks would be good.

NRT as stated above.

If they had a full day I would recommend KIX and Kyoto, but seeing as they are on a budget both $ wise and time wise, NRT is the way to go.