jib71

There are previous threads on this topic. If you're using the typical US three-pronged plugs, you may find some power outlets that you can use - especially in office buildings. But you'll also come across two-hole sockets that won't accommodate the earth pin. For those, you will need an adaptor.

cockpitvisit

(the previous post was more spot on)

smythe

OK, itin set. Train to Tokyo Station, hotel is 3 minutes walk away at Hotel Ryumeikan Tokyo. I think Imperial Palace area, Marunouchi, and Ginza rest of day Friday, Fish Market Sat morning, back to hotel late morning, shower, and return to Narita by mid day. Anyone confirm that hotel is good? Thanks again for all the advice.

jib71

My experience of Ryumeikan is very out of date (mid 1990s). At that time, it was a decrepit flea pit. The photos on Tripadvisor show that it's undergone a major renovation ... In fact, I think I saw this in progress...
It looks completely transformed, so I guess you'll be fine.

smythe

just for clarification, I presume the JR Narita Express is a straight ride from the aiport to Tokyo Station? meaning no change of train is required?

Chapel Hill Guy

Yes. No change required.

jib71

Make sure you go to the Yaesu side of Tokyo station to exit.

(The escalators from the N'EX platforms emerge at the Marunouchi side - so you need to walk the length of the concourse to get to the Yaesu exits. Your instincts might tell you to get away from the crowds and take the first exit that you see, but that will put you on the wrong side of the station).

H.J.Simpson

Hi, sorry to buzz in to this thread, which is very, very good.

I have a night stop stay in Tokyo and as SPG Plat I was thinking of staying at the Westin Tokyo.

How convenient is that, compared to "downtown" Tokyo? Otherwise it will have to be Sheraton Miyako.

Thanks

jib71

For a single night stay in Tokyo, I don't rate the Starwood properties as convenient. Journey time by limousine bus to the Westin is 105-120 minutes. To the Sheraton Miyako, it's 95-110 minutes. Savvy travellers can beat those times by taking trains, but if you want to minimize travel time and hassle, I would suggest a hotel near a station that has frequent, direct trains to the airport. (N'EX takes about 60 mins to Tokyo Station / Keisei Skyliner takes about 40 minutes to Ueno).

H.J.Simpson

How about Hilton Tokyo? - or do you have recommendations (4-5 stars)

Pickles

You mean in Shinjuku? That's even more of a PITA to get in and out of than the Starwoods. Google Maps is your friend.

jib71

The one night Tokyo stopover is an exercise in the art compromise (i.e. leaving everyone feeling like they gave up something important). You can earn points with your favorite programs, but not if you want a reasonable rate with a short commute to the airport and an interesting location. One or more of those conditions must give.

Suck it up.

ninja138

Downtown? What downtown?
And didn't we already beat this subject to death before?

CosmosHuman

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Rev...ure_Kanto.html

84fiero

I picked up this Tokyo atlas before a 1.5 day stopover during a work trip to Okinawa last summer:

http://www.amazon.com/Tokyo-City-Atl...6103313&sr=8-1

It may be overkill if you're not planning to go to many areas or venture far from the main landmarks or stations. But I felt much more at ease having it and it helped me get a better sense of things. I had a few general areas I wanted to visit but otherwise planned to just wander around and see what I could find, the atlas was terrific for that.

Most of its station diagrams are pretty good at helping you figure out which door number to look for - saved me some hassle at the larger stations. Plus it's thin and lightweight.

Going backto Japan for 10 days with the family in April and am really looking forward to it. Tokyo is so cool and no matter what things you choose to do, you'll have fun I'm sure.