Start of a new adventure in Japan! Though definitely a mixed start, as the flight over was relatively bumpy and I think they scaled back food/drink service as a result.
On the plus side, because my son is in a walking boot due to recent foot/ankle surgery, Delta (or Haneda airport) supplied a person with a wheelchair to get him around, and she was extremely helpful in getting us through customs and navigating the airport. After a long flight those tasks are challenging for the overtired.
As for Tokyo it was kind of a grey day, not great for picture taking. Also we really didn’t do much other than check into the hotel and walk around the neighborhood a bit. We did take the monorail from the airport though, recommended as it winds along the manmade islands and channels from Haneda airport to Hamamatsucho station.
We’re staying in Akihabara, famous for electronics and “otaku goods” (like figurines of your favorite anime character etc). Shortly after the war, this neighborhood is where most of the sellers of electronic goods and parts were. There is still a place called “rajio kaikan”, i.e. radio building. We’re a little north of “downtown Akihabara”. Also found a surprising amount of military-replica type stores in this area, which was… odd.
First meal of the trip, soba noodles and broth, and some gyoza. Really hit the spot after a day of travelling (and not much eating). Then after walking around, stopped by a local izakaya for a beer and yakitori skewers but forgot to get a picture. Nice little locals spot, we’ll be back.
Out and About 