Japan 2020l Asakusa

Asakusa is the prefecture that has the old Japanese atmosphere.  It is used to be the entertainment district in Tokyo and the oldest geisha district. But now, it hosts to a cluster of domestic kitchenware stores.  I only found out about this when we were already there so looking for new kitchenwares was not included in our itinerary.

Tokyo Sky Tree

We stayed here since accommodations are cheaper in this part of Tokyo and not too far from the most tourist attractions.  I'm glad staying in this district though, as I prefer a quiet and not too busy place nowadays. Yeah, talk about tita moments!

rick saw ride

On our first day, after checking-in, we were guided by our gracious hosts to the famous Senso-ji temple. It's just a walking distance from our hotel.  Along the way, I noticed there are a lot of restaurants around with interesting architecture.

just one of the few modern buildings

But before the temple, it's hunting time for a ramen house since it's one of the purposes of our visit here in Japan. We were quite amazed that instead of a receptionist with menu, an ATM like counter greeted us.  This is where to order and pay your for your choice.  Good thing that there is a vacant space for us as it was jam packed as expected.

waiting for a vacant seat

The ramen is better compared to what we usually have here in our country.  However, one ramen for our entire stay here is already enough for me since I'm really not a fan of it.  I never finish one bowl of ramen whenever I eat one. ^-^

Japan 2020l APA Hotel

I chanced upon this hotel while browsing thru Agoda.  I'm just looking for a place that is near any train station with very reasonable price and free cancellation (just in case our visa application will be denied).   It looks quite decent and with high reviews.  Since no risk involved, I immediately booked it.  I'm so glad that I did even if it's located in Asakusa.

the "open concept" design; could really feel the cold wind here

our room at the farthest end

Checking in is really very easy.  Just show your reservation or name, they will quickly process your stay.  The receptionists are very friendly.

the hi-tech reception

As expected it is a tiny room; with just enough space to move around and for luggage.  However, it has most of the amenities and facilities that you will need during your stay - h/c shower, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hair dryer, from cotton buds to hair brush, towels, slippers (outside and inside), bath robes, refrigerator, TV and daily supply of complimentary distilled water.  You need not bring your own toiletries.

the waiting area

there is a currency exchange ATM, but rate is low,

so don't use this unless really necessary

the baggage counter, if you still need to roam around before departing

It also has a very strategic location, only 5 mins. walk from the train station. 7-11, mos burger, Lawson's and restaurants are a walk away within the neighborhood.  It is also a walking distance from the Sensoji temple, Don Quijote and Rox department store.

the neighborhood

storage station near the subway station

subway station

there's a separate lane for walking and bicycles

Another plus factor is that it is the center of kitchenwares and household items.  Though I was not able to check these stores due to fear of hauling a lot and swiping my plastic cards too much.  Talk about hard self discipline here!

The best part is it has an onsen (though we didn't try).  The guests have the privilege to use this facility till 10PM everyday.  In the onsen area, there is a vendo machine for beers and other drinks.

We also tried their café downstairs and I love their pan cake.  Well, most pancakes being served in Japan are really delectable to the palette.  How do they do that???

Checking out is also a breeze.  You just have to drop your key cards on the slot provided in the elevator area.

I'll still opt to stay in APA Hotels when I revisit ^-^

Japanl A long time dream that came into reality

it's been ages my dear blog... let's rekindle the love 

happened last Jan. 15 to 21, 2020 (yep, latest escapade)

She's not elusive this time... Thank you so much Mt. Fuji for showing your whole beauty to us

Dreams do come true, don't you agree?  I've been interested in Japan since the time I started watching a travel channel featuring its places, culture and modern inventions.  I have been a fan of their discipline,  creativity, organization and systematic ways.  In the whole ASIA, it can be said that they are the most advanced country.

It took almost 3 decades before this dream came to reality and I savored every moment of it.  Let's face it, Japan is not an affordable travel.  In addition, acquiring a visa is not easy as a breeze.  You need to prepare properly and save for it.

It's in my 2021 bucket list but my lucky stars have other greater plans for me.  When Cebu Pacific announces a promo and with allocated schedule, I made sure to be prepared when the time comes.  Lo and behold!  I was able to score a Manila to Narita RT tickets for Php3,600 per person.  It's a steal!  Never mind that it was 9 months in advance.  At least I have a lot of time preparing and saving for it.  I decided that I'll just maximize my stay in Tokyo alone.  I was so wrong to think that a week is enough to fully discover it.  For us, not so young anymore, we chose the relax mode of exploring this mixture of modern and old city.

We were not able to complete our proposed itinerary due to our laziness.  But still, we have a lot of fun!  It was just supposed to be me and hubby, but my bff (since elementary) joined us suddenly so it was triple the fun.