First, thank you to everyone for your help...

Left for Japan on the 20th - first snowstorm of the season. Took me 3 hours to get to YUL from Morin Heights (usually takes 45 min.). Called the concierge to re-book on the flight to NRT via YYZ. She called me back to let me know not to panic because the first officer was stuck in traffic BEHIND me! Arrived at the airport 10 min. before scheduled take off time. Concierge escorted me through security and we waited about another 15 min. for the FO. De-icing took forever, so guess what?

Arrived at YVR 10 min. before flight to NRT was scheduled to leave. Concierge to the rescue again! She met our flight and 3 of us were whisked to our gate in a cart with a wild driver! Wow, is it ever a long way!!! To my delight, there had been an aircraft change and I walked onto an XMd 763 - very nice...

Arrived in NRT and for the 3rd time, was met by the concierge who escorted me to the front of the "fingerprint and photo" line. She also took me to the ANA counter, waited until I had checked in and then deposited me in the lounge. Arrived in Hiroshima right on time!

I did decide to take a taxi into town and found the second cab in line, who took credit cards. I forgot to get cash in all the excitement of almost missing two flights!

Oh, and in the end I did decide to do carry on, but thanks to advice from Spounce, did check the bag in NRT for the flight on the RJ. So here I am with all my luggage and a tummy full of Sushi.

Also, my US colleagues who are here with me, think I am very clever and we are now calling the Seven-11 the "Bank of the Americas".

This week, I love Air Canada and Flyer Talk! All your advice was invaluable. I'll be flying home on ANA via ORD because of connections. We'll see...