I was in Tokyo last November for two very exhausting days. It’s a cool city, with many temples and green spaces amidst all of the tall buildings and hustle-and-bustle of a big city.

Unfortunately, Tokyo’s public transport is a bit daunting and it was my experience that nobody—and I mean nobody—speaks English (except for Meredith and Sickboy, of course).

My recommendation for just a quick look at the city would be to go to the lower level of Narita Airport (assuming that is where you will arrive) and take the airport express train to Ueno Station. The ride takes a full hour, but Ueno Station is in a very cool, bustling area. The station is surrounding by tall buildings with neon signs, sort of a mini-Times Square. There are many exits to street level from the station but the main exits closest to the platform lead close to Ueno Park, a nice expanse of lawn with a small pond and a temple.

I think that strolling around the park and along Uenos’s main streets could easily keep you busy for a few hour, but if you are feeling optimistic that you have enough time, one of the main subway lines (I think it’s the yellow line, or Hibaya Line) from Ueno Station also leads to Ginza, the main touristy district of high-end shops and restaurants, similar to New York’s 5th Avenue or Paris’s Champs d’Elysses. I had some of the best sushi in my life at a small, basement level restaurant here (naturally, the name escapes me). However, do remember that it’s a long subway ride back to Ueno, and then another full hour (at least) back to Narita.

Thanks for the help HomeSkillet, I really appreciate it. I knew absolutely nothing about Tokyo and so when I found out I would have some time there I was completely overwhelmed with what to do. As far as the subway goes, are the signs only in Japanese or are there English translations as well?

The subway signs are in both Japanese and English.

BTW, neither Meredith or Sickboy seem to post here much anymore. They are both missed….

If I remember correctly, sick recently moved and doesn’t have internet access at the moment. No idea where meredith went.

I’ll solve the mystery.

Sickboy moved and is in the waiting line for internet. Meredith moved last week and ditto for her. I’m hoping both will be granted cyber access soon bc I miss them!!!

6 months free no wonder, it bloody takes that long to get it hooked up!

Should have regular access (at 100mbs) by the end of the month!

You would have a little time, but it would depend on how long it takes to clear customs.

Since the Skyliner takes the shortest amount of time to Ueno, that is the best destination, and Taito ku (the ward also where I live)includes Ueno park, the fabulous Ameyayokocho arcade. As well it is very close to Senso ji and Asukusa jinja – the largest tourist destination in Japan and a gorgeous area.

You can check that out but you will be rushed. If you want further details about trains and connections and shit, just ask me.

I just moved into a new apartment, so I don’t have much internet access.

I second sickboy’s suggestion to check out Ueno. The airport is pretty far out of hte city, so between clearing customs on the way out of the airport and clearing security on the way back in, you’re not going to have tons of time. Ueno is nice though. There’s an interesting fish and clothing market on one side of the station and a park on the other. Sometimes there’s a little antiques and used kimono market at one end of the park.

Check the train schedule carefully because the Skyliner only leaves about every half an hour. There will be other trains leaving from the station, but they are local trains and they take longer.

Sickboy! Meredith! How the hell are ya?!?!

Thanks for the help you guys!