How I did it: I was honored to be invited to a friend's wedding in Japan and made plans to go.  I hadn't seen this friend and her family in over 14 years and I also had a high school friend that I hadn't seen in 18 years!  I got to see all of them, which was absolutely the best part of my trip. 

I was in Osaka, Kyoto, Chiba, and Tokyo for 10 days total in May 2009.  I stayed with my friends for 7 of the 10 days and stayed in one hotel in Tokyo for the last 2 days.

Lessons & tips: Bring lots of smaller Japanese bills for sightseeing and souvenirs.  Only some fancy restaurants and hotels accept credit cards.

The Tokyo subway system as well as the bullet train are fabulous.  They are very fast, efficient, easy to navigate, and clean.  Use them often!

In Tokyo, try to go to Odaiba via the monorail.  It is lots of fun with many activities for both adults and children.

The food in Japan is very, very delicious ("oshi") and the fish is wonderfully fresh.  Try sushi, ramen, and soba noodles, and anything with green tea!

Resources: My great friends!

May 16, 10:29PM PDT | 0 comments | 1 cheer