Day 1 Pudong Airport, Shanghai --> Narita Airport, Tokyo
June 23, 2004
Keisei Electric Railway (official website)
When we arrived at Narita, we got stuck and didn't really know what to do to get through the customs. Thankfully there was a nice Mandarin-speaking lady at the airport who seemed to recognize us and gave us instructions on filling out the foreigner's forms. We took the Keisei Express downtown, and arrived at a metro station. I needed to exchange the Keisei Express tickets into metro tickets (without charge) at the kiosk. Otsuka, where our hotel is, was my first communicated Japanese word.
Toyoko Inn double room.
Otsuka is a small residential area located on the famous Yamanote line. I chose the Toyoko Inn in this area because it's a 2 minute to the metro station and slightly cheaper than the same chain in Shibuya or central Tokyo. This business inn has so many positives things about it, I am writing a five star review about it! Right on the streets there are great local restaurants, convenience store and a takoyaki stand. I loved it so much that I will book the same hotel chain everytime I go to Japan!
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Keisei Electric Railway (officia…
Toyoko Inn double room.
Affordable, clean, convenient
There is already a review on Toyoko Inn chain in general on Travbuddy http://www.travbuddy.com/Toyoko-Inn-v275280 this chain has numerous locations throughout Japan.
For the Otsuka location specifically, it's a great choice for people that likes to stay close to the city center of Tokyo but prefer a more quiet, laid back environment. Located right on the Yamanote line it's easy to get to most sights and interest points. It also cost slightly lower than the Toyoko Inns right at the tourist spots.
In terms of facilities, it has everything you need: hairdryer, coffee maker, washing machine (detergent can be provided if you ask), free internet access and computers in the lobby - You don't even need to bring a computer! Check out the website for more services provided. Shampoo and shower gel are in dispensers instead of containers to be environmentally friendly.
Staff is really friendly and helpful, they even give you a little gift upon arrival...this might be a ladies only thing, but still great!
Continental breakfast at this location is not entirely satisfying because of the lack of variety, but has the basics: miso soup, coffee and pastries. Breakfast in other more major locations are more luxurious.
The only downside is that the room is small, and the bathroom is even smaller (but the bathtub is deep, perfect for a bath). Not for someone looking for a romantic getaway, but perfect for budget travelers that wants a more comfortable experience.
For the Otsuka location specifically, it's a great choice for people that likes to stay close to the city center of Tokyo but prefer a more quiet, laid back environment. Located right on the Yamanote line it's easy to get to most sights and interest points. It also cost slightly lower than the Toyoko Inns right at the tourist spots.
In terms of facilities, it has everything you need: hairdryer, coffee maker, washing machine (detergent can be provided if you ask), free internet access and computers in the lobby - You don't even need to bring a computer! Check out the website for more services provided. Shampoo and shower gel are in dispensers instead of containers to be environmentally friendly.
Staff is really friendly and helpful, they even give you a little gift upon arrival...this might be a ladies only thing, but still great!
Continental breakfast at this location is not entirely satisfying because of the lack of variety, but has the basics: miso soup, coffee and pastries. Breakfast in other more major locations are more luxurious.
The only downside is that the room is small, and the bathroom is even smaller (but the bathtub is deep, perfect for a bath). Not for someone looking for a romantic getaway, but perfect for budget travelers that wants a more comfortable experience.
Mirror, hairdryer, TV in a doubl…
