I travelled from Kyoto to Tokyo on the Nozomi Shinkansen bullet train again but this time the maximum speed I saw was only 266 kph. Possibly because it was the older Series 300 which has a maximum speed of 270 kph or maybe the track is not rated for the higher speed. Distance 513.6 km, journey time 2:17 hrs, Cost 13,910 Yen or 123 Euro.

Tokyo – big crowded city, the Metro area has a population of 38 million people, believe it or not. Clean and organised with trains that will take you to most places. There are a number of different services and they all require their own ticket, though you can get to most places on the two main subway services. As a tourist you can buy a 1, 2 0r 3 day unlimited travel pass for the two main services. The 3 day pass costs 1,500 Yen which is very cheap considering a single ride averages over 200 Yen. The pass is only available at the airport and a few select locations and you have to show your passport to get one. I bought mine from the BIC camera store near the Tokyo station, directed to go there by the Tourist Office.

Finding your way around the stations from one line to another or even just the exit is a complete nightmare as they are built into a complex of shops and department stores. Also get used to climbing stairs, there are lifts and escalators at some of the stations but you first have to find them as they are very well hidden. All part of the cities plan to fit more passengers into each carriage during rush hour.

People are allowed to smoke in restaurants in Japan.

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Palace Gardens, Metropolitan Building, Korea Town and the National Musuem

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Sony Building, Ginza, Tsukiji Fish Market, Panasonic Centre

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Mount Fuji Day Tour

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Robot Restaurant, Harajuku, Meiji Jingu and Shibuya

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Sumo Tournament, Miraikan Science Museum, Odaiba Island and Gundam

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Honda Centre, Roppongi, Seiko Museum and Skytree

T-site in Daikanyama – a very large and interesting bookshop and other stuff, River Cruise, Palace Garden and Senso-ji Temple

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