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⭐ DAY 2 ARRIVAL FLOW — TOKYO → KYOTO

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WHEN YOU LAND (May 29)

Whether you land at Haneda (HND) or Narita (NRT), follow this same calm sequence:

1. Immigration → Baggage → Customs (1.5–2 hours)

Signs are in perfect English.
You cannot get lost.

  • Line up for immigration

  • Show passport

  • Pick up your checked bags

  • Walk through customs (simple questions)

TIP:
Use restrooms after immigration — they’re cleaner and there’s no rush.

2. Get Cash (ATMs)

Use a 7-Eleven ATM — best for U.S. debit cards.
Withdraw about: ¥30,000–¥40,000 ($200–$275).
You can always get more.

3. Activate Your eSIM / WiFi

This takes 2–5 minutes.
You now have full signal for Google Maps.

4. Head to Train Signs (“Railways”)

You will follow big English signs:
➡️ TRAIN
➡️ RAILWAYS
➡️ TO CITY
➡️ TOKYO

Both airports keep this ridiculously simple.

5. Airport → Tokyo Station

Choose your airport below:

⭐ If you land at Haneda (HND):

The best and fastest way:

Tokyo Monorail → Hamamatsucho Station → JR Yamanote Line → Tokyo Station

  • Total time: 20–30 minutes

  • Very easy transfer (just walk across the platform)

⭐ If you land at Narita (NRT):

Use:

Narita Express (NEX) → Tokyo Station

  • Time: ~60 minutes

  • Comfortable

  • Reserved seats

  • Plenty of space for luggage

This is by far the best option.

6. Arrive at TOKYO STATION

You are now in the heart of Japan’s rail network.

Follow signs for:
➡️ SHINKANSEN (Bullet Train)
➡️ Tokaido / Sanyo Line
➡️ Kyoto / Osaka

7. Buy Shinkansen Tickets (Tokyo → Kyoto)

Go to the Shinkansen Ticket Office (Midori-no-Madoguchi) or use a machine.

Ask for:

“Two reserved seats on the next Nozomi to Kyoto, please.”

  • Train type: Nozomi (fastest) or Hikari

  • Travel time: ~2 hr 15 min

  • Price: ~¥14,000 ($90–$100) per person

TIP:
Ask for seats on the right side of the train for occasional Mt. Fuji views (weather permitting).

8. Board the Shinkansen

Boarding is simple:

  • Follow your car number

  • Stand in front of the painted line on the platform

  • Train arrives precisely

  • Get in, stow bags, relax

  • Buy snacks on the platform (bentos, tea, sandwiches)

Clean, calm, silent.
Like flying business class without the cost.

9. Ride Tokyo → Kyoto (~2 hours 15 minutes)

Enjoy:

  • Smooth views

  • Fields and mountains

  • Mt. Fuji (maybe!)

  • Quiet cabin

  • Large windows

You’ll arrive at Kyoto Station in the late afternoon or early evening.

10. Kyoto Arrival

You’re almost done.

  • Walk to your hotel (or take short taxi)

  • Check in

  • Drop bags

  • Eat something simple

  • Sleep early

Kyoto is calm, clean, and immediately beautiful.