"Yokoso!"

That was the welcoming greeting that I saw upon arriving at Narita International Airport, Chiba, Japan. I was stunned. Even before we landed at the airport, I couldn't help but keep my eyes fixed on the blooming pink-colored Cherry Blossom trees. Oh, how lovely!

Tokyo is really one of many of my friends' bucket list. But when I visited Tokyo before, It was beyond my bucket list. "Beyond" because, going to this place was an impossible dream for me. Tokyo won't disappoint you (but it's still not perfect, friends.)

Caption: The lovely cherry blossoms at a parking lot in Nagoya (about 2.5 hours from Tokyo via shinkansen)

A lot of people say that their Tokyo trip was fantastic. Well, I understand them and I wouldn't deny the fact that it's really true. Hmmm, without much ado, let him share the reasons why I'm amazed with Tokyo.

1. Food

Tokyo is a food paradise. Whether you're looking for authentic Japanese dishes or gourmet delicacies, Tokyo is surely a place for you. If you're health conscious, Tokyo also has vegetarian restaurants. In Tokyo, our tour guides brought us to a Shabu-shabu restaurant. Shabu-shabu is a pot dish suitable for chilly evenings. It's a food suitable for families and friends to eat together. I found it interesting because it's not typical. Why? When you eat shabu-shabu, you'll have to cook it first on a stove attached to the table. The beef served are sliced so thinly that when it is cooked, it seemed that it's melting inside your mouth. I wasn't a vegetarian yet when I ate that but I could say it was tasty. The vegetables were also quite delicious (super!). You'll surely fall in love with Japanese Tofu's softness.

Caption: The famous shabu-shabu is really can warm both one's stomach and heart!

At the hotel where we stayed, western dishes were served. We were asked to choose between American cuisine and Continental cuisine. As a girl who grew up in the province, I wasn't acquainted with those cuisines. So, I just chose those dishes that I felt were appetizing. Thankfully, we still got satisfied with the hotel resto's food.

Caption: That's my friend, Raf, enjoying the meal at Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa, Tokyo

2. The People

Japanese culture upholds politeness and discipline. Growing up in a country where discipline is still a struggle for some, I was astonished to see Japanese people manifesting it. I could still remember the time when I came across with college students who were attending a seminar for job seekers. While they were walking, they greeted us "ohayou gozaimasu" (good morning!). Even if they're in a hurry, they still gave a pinch of their time to greet us with a matching bow. I found it courteous. It's heartwarming and it made me smile.

Caption: At the airport, I happened to talk to a flight attendant. She remained calm and respectful despite the language barrier.

3. Fashion

Japan is famous for its colorful and sophisticated fashion industry. Seeing girls donned in their fashionable outfit is not an uncommon scene. From Ginza to Harajuku, almost every one are taking their effort, money, and time just to wear that outfit that stuns. Tokyo has many vintage and classic stores for all ages. You can also see cosplayers (usually at Akihabara) and of course, the elegant traditional Japanese kimono.

Caption: I'm not a fashion geek, by the way. haha.

4. It is safe

Raised in a region where war was a common word, safety for me is a luxury. In Tokyo, pickpockets aren't common. You can use your phone anywhere. (Well, in some places in my country, you've got to hide your nice smartphones or else the pickpocket's eyes will be on you.) You can walk around the neighborhood, chill out and simply relax. Even if you're a foreigner, you won't have to worry a lot about safe. You don't have to be afraid of the scammers. They're not in Tokyo.

Caption: The Shinagawa station was so crowded but still it's a safe place.

If you're lost, you may ask any person you meet along the streets. If you can speak basic Japanese, it would be better. You may also go to the local police station or to the tourist info booth in some train stations. You may approach English-speaking students or young professionals, too. As for my experience, we got lost in the middle of Tokyo but we simply approached a guy wearing an overcoat. He was struggling with speaking English but he was truly polite and kind in helping us find the right road.

5. Public Transportation is OK!

I live in a country where public transportation is very affordable but still not so convenient. However, coming to Japan was a haven for commuters like me. Although, I didn't stay for a long time, I was able to get a glimpse of how it feels like being a typical student in Japan through its accessible public transportation. They've got the subway, JR lines (trains), and the awesome the shinkansens (high-speed bullet trains). The terminals are usually clean. There are lots of food hubs in stations, too!

Being in Tokyo is cool. It's a metropolitan with high-tech stuff yet beautified by the rich cultural traditions of Japan. There are lots of things to say about Japan. But i guess, your story, your own experience, will be a great story to listen to.

Arigatou gozaimasu, Tokyo! Till next! (God willing.)

:) :) :) :)

Excelsior forevermore!

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