Ladies & Gentlemen, as the Northern Hemisphere mid-summer season rapidly approaches its peak, I hope you will accept my most sincere apologies for the lack of overseas trip reports for the past few months. In order to keep you all updated for this year's summer season itself, I would like to warmly welcome you to my 11-day overseas summer getaway journey to eastern Japan for my 31st birthday in both May & June 2026. This main overseas getaway vacation report shall be divided into five major sections, for which, this will constitute the first main sector of the overseas trip report itself.
There shall be two main focus topics, excluding the prologue, that are to be covered in this first section of the trip report. They are mainly the overnight flight from Singapore to Tokyo (Haneda) and the railway trip to the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama. Though I cannot allow any user comments to be posted for my overseas getaway videos published on YouTube for safety reasons, you may leave your comments in the main comment boxes located at the end of each trip report segment.
Part 1 ~ The Prologue
After helping my younger brother settle down into his fifth and final year of major Australian university education Down Under in Western Australia, my mom and I returned to Singapore in March 2026 so as to take care of things at home and run our private family medical enterprise. My dad flew directly Down Under to Western Australia a few days later so as to help my younger brother settle a few of the errands we were unable to settle, thus returning back to Singapore by the middle of April. He would, however, have to head Down Under to Western Australia again in May so as to provide some moral support for my younger brother before his first semester examinations.
With the middle of 2026 rapidly coming, I quickly decided that another solo trip was necessary for me to have a break from the rigors of my usual work. As my 31st birthday was also around the corner, it was not that long before my main choice of destination was narrowed down to Japan. Since 2024, it had been a norm for me to celebrate my birthday solo in Japan as I usually prefer solo and quiet birthdays without any birthday cake, parties or songs. Having booked my tickets and accommodation several months beforehand, there was no doubt that I had successfully secured the price rates I wanted. As Benjamin Franklin once stated in a famous life quote that still resonates with me, "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail."
On the rainy morning of Thursday (28 May), I woke up at precisely 10:30 hrs sharp after having a good night's rest. Freshening up and changing into my normal clothes, I soon proceeded to prepare the remainder of my necessary belongings in preparation for the mid-summer overseas getaway voyage to eastern Japan later on. My mom had even offered to securely take me over to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 securely at 19:00 hrs, knowing well that there was the main evening rush traffic we had to take into account. I then placed everything in the living room so as to make sure that we could load them into the trunk of the white family car.
For the coming in-bound overnight flight from Singapore to Tokyo (Haneda), I would be flying directly with Singapore Airlines on flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda), which would be expected to depart from Singapore Changi Airport safely by 22:50 hrs later that night, and arrive at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) by 06:45 hrs early the next morning. This would be a positive point, given that with a non-stop flight, it would save the need to pass through transit security checks and change flights at another airport.
As with every solo getaway voyage over to Japan, I was glad to have chosen Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) as my default gateway to and from the major downtown districts of Tokyo instead of Narita International Airport in the central suburban outskirts of Narita. With the close proximity of Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) to central Tokyo and major cities surrounding it (i.e., Kawasaki, Yokohama), I immediately knew that it would be practical to enter the Greater Tokyo Area via Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) as a solo traveler. This was further justified by the fact that Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) is not subject to any late night curfew, in comparison with Narita International Airport.
However, following a fatal mass aircraft collision accident that occurred at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) in January 2024, my parents were particular about the length of major runways. With two of the main runways at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) measuring three kilometers (9,843 feet) and 3,360 meters (11,024 feet) respectively in each length, my mom and younger brother were concerned that the two main runways would not be long enough to accommodate emergencies. Given that the main runway at Narita International Airport has a length of four kilometers (13,123 feet), this would be suitable for handling the needs of having a longer airport runway in the event of an emergency.
Furthermore, for my accommodation, I would stay at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama situated near Yokohama Station in the heart of Nishi-ku, Yokohama. Though this property was classified as a hotel, I was quite smart to secure a residential double room with a kitchen and washing machine to ensure that I could wash my clothes upon returning from my major railway day travels, which would normally commence early in the morning and end quite late at night. I would then spend the night at the Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu prior to eventually returning home to Singapore the next day.
Later that evening, the time had come for me to depart the house by around 18:55 hrs. While my mom started up the white family car, I promptly offered help to my housekeeper in loading my baggage into the back car trunk area, even ensuring that everything could securely fit. Once all my belongings had been safely loaded into the rear car trunk, we eventually departed from the familiar surroundings of our house at exactly 19:00 hrs for a routine evening trip time of half an hour over the Tampines Expressway to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3.
It was not long until we finally arrived at the main departures and drop-off point located just outside Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 by 19:30 hrs sharp. While my mom went to collect one baggage cart, I quickly helped to unload my belongings from the rear trunk area of our white private family car. After all of my belongings had been securely loaded onto the baggage cart, my mom gently wished me a pleasant 11-day solo getaway journey to eastern Japan and told me to keep in touch daily every few hours.
Once my mom had left me to commence my journey, I went directly into the departures and check-in level of Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 in the direction to the Singapore Airlines Business Class check-in counters. Arriving at the Singapore Airlines Business Class check-in counters by 19:35 hrs, I was promptly served by a Singapore Airlines check-in staff agent who requested for my red passport and necessary getaway documents to securely facilitate the main check-in procedure for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda). The entire check-in process for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) took approximately five minutes.
Singapore Airlines (Japanese: シンガポール航空; Chinese: 新加坡航空; Korean: 싱가포르 항공) is the international flag carrier and the largest airline company of the Republic of Singapore. Headquartered at the Airline House located in 25 Airline Road, the airline company has its largest hub at Singapore Changi Airport, offering 76 destinations across Asia, Africa, North America, Oceania and Europe with a large mixed fleet consisting of Airbus A350 XWBs, Airbus A380s, Boeing 737 MAXs, Boeing 777s & Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The major airline plays a role as a core competitor along the Kangaroo Route between Australia and the United Kingdom via the Eastern Hemisphere.
The airline was officially founded two years following the end of World War II as Malayan Airways on 1 May 1947, until it was split into Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines from 1 October 1972. Progressing rapidly through its development, it took delivery of the first Airbus A380 from 15 October 2007, also flying the world's first regular commercial Airbus A380 service between Singapore and Sydney on 25 October 2007. It was also the first customer for the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, having acquired its very first aircraft from 14 March 2018 and launching the aircraft's first revenue flight from Singapore to Osaka (Kansai) from 3 May 2018. As one of the 11 airlines to be awarded five-star rating by Skytrax, the airline won the 'Airline of the Year' award in 2004, 2007, 2008, 2018 and 2023.
The airline also operates three of the world's longest non-stop flight services between Singapore, Los Angeles, New York and Newark. Initially flown with five Airbus A340-500s from 2004, these services ended in late 2013 following the retirement of its Airbus A340-500 fleet. However, with the delivery of its Airbus A350 XWBs since 2 March 2016, including seven Airbus A350-900/ULR aircraft, the airline reinstated non-stop services to the United States from 23 October 2016, starting with San Francisco. This was also followed by Newark on 11 October 2018 and Los Angeles on 2 November 2018, thereby allowing it to reclaim the title of operating the world's longest commercial flights. As a formal pure member of Star Alliance since 1 April 2000, Singapore Airlines maintains mutual code-share agreements with several Star Alliance partners through its KrisFlyer frequent-flyer program.
The departures and drop-off point located outside Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours shortly after I had arrived
Overlooking Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2, where Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) would depart from later on, from the departures and drop-off point located outside Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Walking through the departures and check-in lobby in the direction leading to the Singapore Airlines Business Class check-in counters at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Overlooking some other airline check-in counters on the way to the Singapore Airlines Business Class check-in counters located in the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Finally arriving at the Singapore Airlines Business Class check-in counters located in the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours
One final look at my bulkier check-in baggage at the Singapore Airlines Business Class check-in counters located in the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 shortly after I had checked it in for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda)
After completing the central check-in process for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) at the major Singapore Airlines Business Class check-in counters situated in the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3, I received my boarding pass by precisely 19:40 hrs sharp. The check-in agent informed me that Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) would depart at precisely 22:50 hrs from Gate No. E24, which meant that I would have to proceed to Terminal 2 for my coming flight. Boarding would then commence at precisely 22:20 hrs, approximately half an hour before the scheduled departure time.
With that, I thanked the Singapore Airlines check-in agent for her efficient services and proceeded to the departure immigration checkpoints with my belongings. To clear the departure immigration checkpoints, I made use of the automatic facial recognition entrance gates, with the major departure immigration procedures taking not more than approximately five minutes that early evening. Once I had directly passed through the main departure immigration checkpoints, I was in the large main transit area of Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 by around 19:45 hrs.
Given that there was plenty of good time before Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) that evening, I decided to proceed upstairs to the Silver Kris Lounge for some refreshments first. Without wasting anymore time, I walked across the transit mall of Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 and took the nearest escalator up to the mezzanine transit lobby, where the airline lounges were located. The entire airport terminal passage connecting between the central transit concourse level and the Silver Kris Lounge in the mezzanine transit level took not more than approximately five minutes.
My Business Class boarding pass for the upcoming in-bound flight segment from Singapore to Tokyo (Haneda)
Bypassing the "Peanuts Summer Sports Park With Snoopy" sculpture in the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
One final view of the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 shortly before I went through the departure immigration checkpoints during the early evening rush hours
Finally entering the central concourse of the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Making a left turn towards Concourse A in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
The departure flight information screens in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Bypassing The Cocoa Trees (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 South Branch) located in the main transit area on the way to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Bypassing Bottega Veneta (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 Branch) located in the main transit area on the way to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Bypassing Hermès (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 Branch) located in the main transit area on the way to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Bypassing Lotte Duty Free (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 South Branch) located in the main transit area on the way to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Approaching the escalators and elevator connecting directly to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level from the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Finally arriving at the main entrance to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
After walking through the main transit mall to the airline lounge mezzanine level for not more than approximately five minutes, I soon reached the main entrance to the Silver Kris Lounge at around 19:50 hrs. Proceeding to one of the major airport lounge entrance reception counters, a lounge receptionist verified my blue boarding pass and passport prior to permitting me to enter the lounge area itself. Once my boarding pass had been checked, the airline lounge staff receptionist then reminded me to allow plenty of time to reach my boarding gate in Terminal 2.
Having changed approximately S$2,123.00 in town for Japanese yen earlier and obtaining up to ¥262,000 in return, I promptly knew that it would not be necessary to change any money in the major airport terminal itself. This thereby resulted in the total amount of Japanese yen in my wallet pockets from ¥583,491 to ¥845,491. With that instant, I quickly proceeded into the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge and secured an empty table near the window before helping myself to a few lounge refreshments and using my electronic gadgets.
Upon finishing the first of my airline lounge refreshments, the main clock was eventually showing 20:30 hrs. Since I was in the mood for some duty-free shopping, I departed the lounge and took the escalator down to the main transit area before searching for any nearby duty-free retail outlets that would suit my tastes and preferences. During the course of my main airport duty-free shopping spree in Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 itself, I quickly made two major stopovers at The Cocoa Trees (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 South Branch) and TWG Tea Boutique Outlets (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 Branch).
While shopping, I purchased some local snacks and two major boxes of 1837 TWG Tea for a few local friends living and working in Chiba. Upon finishing my local duty-free shopping, I instantly made my way back to the Silver Kris Lounge in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level, thus arriving safely at around 20:50 hrs. Entering the Business Class section of the airline lounge, I quickly helped myself to a few more refreshments and utilized my portable electronics until it was time to take to Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain to Terminal 2 for my flight.
Proceeding straight to the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 shortly after I had entered the lounge during the early evening rush hours
Stepping into the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 shortly after I had entered the lounge during the early evening rush hours
Bypassing the self-service dessert and light snacks refreshment counters in the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Bypassing the self-service fruit, dessert and cheese refreshment counters in the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Bypassing the self-service hot food refreshment counters in the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Approaching the self-service beverage and wine refreshment corner in the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Stopping at the self-service beverage and wine refreshment corner in the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
About to help myself to some 2019 Le Château Beaumont Cru Bourgeois, Haut-Médoc, French red wine at the self-service beverage and wine refreshment corner in the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
A plate each of papadam crackers and har gow dim sum shrimp dumplings with a glass each of iced water and 2019 Le Château Beaumont Cru Bourgeois, Haut-Médoc, French red wine for myself in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
The overall view of the inner dining and seating areas from my seating table in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Planning out the first section of my solo overseas getaway vacation trip report on my blog via my portable laptop in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 using Frutiger LT Std as the standard font for the trip report
Heading the self-service hot food refreshment counters in the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
A plate each of potato chips and chocolate éclairs with a glass of iced water for myself in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
Overlooking the main airport tarmac from the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
The overall view of the inner dining and seating areas from my seating table in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 shortly before I went down to the main transit area for some duty-free shopping during the evening rush hours
Walking through the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 as I begin to make my way down to the main transit area for some duty-free shopping during the evening rush hours
The departure flight information screens in the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Bypassing the open-air seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 as I begin to make my way down to the main transit area for some duty-free shopping during the evening rush hours
The main entrance to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 as I begin to make my way down to the main transit area for some duty-free shopping during the evening rush hours
About to take the escalators down to the main transit area for some duty-free shopping from the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Bypassing Lotte Duty Free (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 South Branch) located in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 as I begin my duty-free shopping spree during the evening rush hours
Bypassing Gucci (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 Branch) located in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 as I begin my duty-free shopping spree during the evening rush hours
Bypassing several open-air cafeterias in the central concourse in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Bypassing several open-air passenger rest areas in the central concourse in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Overlooking the main airport tarmac from the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
A Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941, registered 9V-SMF and painted with the "10,000th Airbus Aircraft" special stickers, being serviced at Gate No. A1 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 in preparation for her coming long overnight flight over the Indian Ocean to the Federal Republic of Germany as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 328 bound for Munich
A Singapore Airlines Airbus A380-841, registered 9V-SKW, taxiing along the main airport tarmac to her assigned runway after departing from Gate No. A4 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 in preparation for her coming long overnight flight over the Java Sea and Indian Ocean Down Under to the Commonwealth of Australia as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 221 bound for Sydney
A Singapore Airlines Airbus A380-841, registered 9V-SKN, being serviced at Gate No. B2 located in Concourse B at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 in preparation for her coming long overnight flight over the Indian Ocean to the United Kingdom as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 322 bound for London (Heathrow)
A Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941, registered 9V-SHG, being serviced at Gate No. B1 located in Concourse B at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 in preparation for her coming long overnight flight over the Java Sea and Indian Ocean Down Under to the Commonwealth of Australia as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 235 bound for Brisbane
Walking through the central concourse of the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 for some duty-free shopping during the evening rush hours
Stopping at The Cocoa Trees (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 South Branch) in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Stopping at TWG Tea Boutique (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 Branch) located in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Walking through the central concourse of the main transit area on the way back to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Bypassing Hermès (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 Branch) located in the main transit area on the way back to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Bypassing Lotte Duty Free (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 South Branch) located in the main transit area on the way back to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Approaching the escalators and elevator connecting directly to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level from the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Finally arriving back at the main entrance to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the evening rush hours
Proceeding straight towards the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 shortly after I had arrived back at the lounge during the evening rush hours
About to help myself to some plain digestive cookies and hot cocoa at the self-service light snacks and hot beverage refreshment corner in the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
The overall view of the inner dining and seating areas from my seating table in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the late night rush hours
A plate of plain digestive cookies with a mug of hot cocoa for myself in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
A glass of iced water for myself in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
Watching "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York" (1992) on my portable laptop in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3, with the scene showing Peter McCallister (played by the late John Heard) and Kate McCallister (played by the late Catherine O'Hara) looking at each other in disbelief upon realizing that their youngest son, Kevin McCallister, is missing during baggage claim at Miami International Airport
One final view of the inner dining and seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the late night rush hours shortly before I departed the lounge for Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
To: Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) (HND / RJTT), Tokyo, Japan
Aircraft: Boeing 777-312/ER
Registration No.: 9V-SWU
Class: Business Class
Seat No.: 20K
Date: Thursday, 28 May 2026
After spending approximately 1 hour 40 minutes of having a few snacks and using my electronics in the Silver Kris Lounge in the mezzanine transfer mall at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3, the local clock was already showing 21:30 hrs. Given that revenue boarding time for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) would commence in 50 minutes, I packed my carry-on belongings and departed the Silver Kris Lounge for Gate No. E24 in Terminal 2. Proceeding to Concourse B, I caught the nearest local Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain bound for Concourse E in Terminal 2, with the main airport terminal journey to Gate No. E24 lasting approximately 15 minutes.
Soon enough, I reached the front entrance to the passenger holding lounge situated at Gate No. E24 in Concourse E by 21:45 hrs, which was just in time for customer boarding for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) to commence in only 35 minutes. Passing through a rapid security check, I was finally in the central passenger holding lounge at Gate No. E24 by around 21:50 hrs. Observing the number of customers at Gate No. E24, I could quickly deduce that Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) would be almost filled to the brim tonight.
For tonight's long journey, Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) would be operated by a Boeing 777-300/ER aircraft, registered 9V-SWU and powered by two General Electric GE90-115B engines. 9V-SWU was delivered to Singapore Airlines from 19 September 2013 as the 20th Boeing 777-300/ER and the 78th Boeing 777 jet for the airline company. It was then refitted with a new Premium Economy Class cabin from July 2017 as part of the airline's main strategies of rolling out a four-class seating configuration on its fleet of Boeing 777-300/ER jets. The overall main delivery would thus make the wide-body twin-engine aircraft have a revenue passenger service age of approximately 12.7 years old today.
Bypassing several counter-style tables in the inner dining area of the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the late night rush hours as I begin to make my way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Overlooking the open-air seating areas in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 as I begin to make my way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Approaching the escalators and elevator leading down to the main transit area from the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 on the way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
The main entrance to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 as I begin to make my way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Taking the escalator down to the main transit area from the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 on the way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
The escalators and elevator connecting directly to the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level from the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Bypassing Qeelin (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 Branch) located in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Bypassing The Cocoa Trees (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 South Branch) located in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Bypassing Lotte Duty Free (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 Central Branch) located in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Bypassing iStudio (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 Branch) located in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Bypassing Lotte Duty Free (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 North Branch) located in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Bypassing Gates No. B1 to B4 located in Concourse B at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Getting closer to the Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain platform bound for Terminal 1 and Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in Concourse B at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the late night rush hours
Finally approaching the Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain platform bound for Terminal 1 and Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in Concourse B at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the late night rush hours
A 3-car Mitsubishi Crystal Mover EMU arriving at the Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain platform in Concourse B at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
The interior of Car No. 1 of the 3-car Mitsubishi Crystal Mover EMU during the boarding process in Concourse B at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
Finally departing Concourse B at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 for Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Making a right turn along the Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain tracks leading to Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 via the Jewel Changi Airport late at night
Traveling along the Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain tracks through the Jewel Changi Airport between Concourse B at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 and Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 late at night
About to descend along the Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain tracks close to Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Approaching Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 late at night
Finally arriving at Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
The Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain platform in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 serving the Singapore Changi Airport Skytrains bound for Terminal 1 and Concourse B at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 shortly after I had arrived during the late night rush hours
The departure flight information screens in the main transit area near Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Bypassing several duty-free retail outlet stores in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 on the way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E during the late night rush hours
Approaching the airport terminal passageway connecting to Gates No. E20 to E28 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Bypassing Gate No. E20 on the way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Bypassing Gate No. E22 on the way to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Getting closer to Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Finally arriving at the main entrance to the passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Finally inside the passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
My aircraft for tonight, 9V-SWU, being serviced at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in preparation for her coming long overnight flight over the South China Sea and East China Sea to the State of Japan as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda). This particular aircraft was familiar to me as I had once traveled on it as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 012 from Singapore to Los Angeles via Tokyo (Narita) in December 2021
A closer view of 9V-SWU being serviced at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in preparation for her coming long overnight flight over the South China Sea and East China Sea to the State of Japan as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda)
The departure flight information screen in the passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 detailing important information for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda)
The passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 with some waiting passengers for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda)
One additional view of 9V-SWU being serviced at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in preparation for her coming long overnight flight over the South China Sea and East China Sea to the State of Japan as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda)
A Lufthansa Boeing 747-430, registered D-ABVZ, being serviced at Gate No. E8 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in preparation for her coming long overnight return flight over the Indian Ocean to the Federal Republic of Germany as Lufthansa flight LH 781 bound for Frankfurt
The passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 shortly before the first boarding announcements for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) were made
After spending approximately 20 minutes of anticipated waiting in the main passenger holding area at Gate No. E24 in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2, the first boarding announcements for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) were safely made by 22:10 hrs. The First and Business Class travelers, including the KrisFlyer Gold Club members and passengers requiring special assistance, were all called out to board the aircraft first. As I was among the first ones being summoned for boarding, I got out my boarding pass and passport to be checked by the boarding gate staff for the boarding process to commence smoothly.
Walking through the jet bridge at Gate No. E24 to Door A, I was safely on board 9V-SWU at 22:15 hrs sharp, which was in ample time for a 22:50 hrs departure bound for Tokyo (Haneda). At the front main aircraft entrance, two flight attendants welcomed me on board and kindly pointed out the direction to my seat located in the Business Class cabin. Upon stowing my belongings into their respective stowage areas, I settled into my assigned Seat No. 20K for the coming main overnight flight duration of 6 hours 55 minutes over the South China Sea and East China Sea to Tokyo (Haneda).
The Business Class seats I would have for this coming main red-eye journey to Tokyo (Haneda) were the second generation of long-haul style Business Class seats. These seats were directly introduced on 9 July 2013 before the delivery of the airline's second batch of eight Boeing 777-300/ERs and were gradually refitted on the existing first batch of Boeing 777-300/ERs by the final quarter of fiscal 2018. They are even featured on the Airbus A350-900 Long Haul jets delivered from 2016 to 2024. Capable of reclining to a total of only 132º in a standard lounging position, these seats can then fold into a complete lie-flat bed of 180º to allow passengers to sleep during long-haul flights.
The crew attendants went through the cabin distributing the complimentary beverages and free newspapers to the First and Business Class passengers. To commence this main late night trip over the China Seas to Tokyo (Haneda), I had a glass each of orange juice and champagne. As boarding for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) was still in progress at Gate No. E24, I even informed one of the other passing in-flight attendants that I had purchased some items online via the airline's KrisShop website only two months in advance, with my purchases to be delivered on board later on.
A flight attendant soon appeared beside my seat again to confirm my supper order for the upcoming overnight in-flight meal service after departure from Singapore. For my main supper meal entrée itself, I would have the Japanese A4 Wagyu beef yakiniku served with seasonal vegetables and steamed white rice, which I had ordered online through the airline's 'Book the Cook' service during the course of my flight reservations. I also made a request to have my main meal directly after taking off from Singapore, knowing that I would be hungry by then.
Given the fact that 'Book The Cook' has a wider selection of dishes to choose from for selected services, it was a custom for me to choose my meal entrées just a few days before my Singapore Airlines premium class flights whenever feasible. Once my main meal order for the in-flight supper service was safely recorded, I quickly sat back to update some private overseas trip report data via my private laptop and finish my major glasses of champagne and orange juice before they were cleared away in preparation for departure.
A closer view of 9V-SWU while passing through the jet bridge at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Passing through the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER First Class cabin during the boarding process at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
The front view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin during the boarding process at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
A view of my seat, 20K, during the boarding process at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Overlooking the main airport tarmac during the boarding process at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during the boarding process at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
The cover page for the in-flight dining menu for the in-bound flight segment from Singapore to Tokyo (Haneda) during the boarding process at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Reviewing the Japanese Hanakoireki and main food sections of the in-flight dining menu for the in-bound flight segment from Singapore to Tokyo (Haneda) during the boarding process at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Reviewing the champagne and white wine sections of the in-flight dining menu for the in-bound flight segment from Singapore to Tokyo (Haneda) during the boarding process at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Reviewing the red wine section of the in-flight dining menu for the in-bound flight segment from Singapore to Tokyo (Haneda) during the boarding process at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Reviewing the spirit, beer and non-alcoholic beverage sections of the in-flight dining menu for the in-bound flight segment from Singapore to Tokyo (Haneda) during the boarding process at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
The cover page for the KrisShop in-flight duty-free shopping magazine during the boarding process at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Reviewing the KrisShop in-flight duty-free shopping magazine during the boarding process at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
A Philippine Airlines Airbus A321-231, registered RP-C9912, resting at Gate No. E27 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 long after arriving from her regional mid-afternoon flight over the South China Sea from the Republic of the Philippines as Philippine Airlines flight PR 501 from Manila
A glass each of champagne and orange juice for myself, which I would mix to create an orange mimosa, during the boarding process at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Planning out the first section of my solo overseas getaway vacation trip report on my blog via my portable laptop during the boarding process at Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 using Frutiger LT Std as the standard font for the trip report
A Singapore Airlines Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, registered 9V-SDB, resting at Gate No. E26 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 after arriving from her regional early evening return flight over the South China Sea from the Socialist Republic of Vietnam as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 185 from Ho Chi Minh City
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat while awaiting departure Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Awaiting departure from Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
After the local clock struck 22:55 hrs, all the major aircraft doors were closed, and the large aircraft departed from Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2, which was approximately five minutes behind schedule. Once the in-flight safety briefing demonstration video was directly shown on my main in-flight entertainment video screen, the aircraft began to make its way to its assigned airport runway for the long overnight flight journey over both the two China Seas bound for Tokyo (Haneda), also bypassing several aircraft parked in Concourse E at Terminal 2 and the older Terminal 1 en route. The entire major tarmac passageway connecting to the assigned airport runway took not more than approximately 10 minutes.
It was not very long before the aircraft securely reached its allocated runway closer to the existing Terminal 1. Later on, the General Electric GE90-115B jet engines spooled into action, and the aircraft safely lifted off from Singapore Changi Airport at precisely 23:05 hrs for its long overnight flight duration of 6 hours 10 minutes over both the South China Sea and East China Sea to the national metropolitan capital area of the State of Japan. I then climbed into the dark night sky for a long overnight journey duration of approximately 6 hours 10 minutes across both the South China Sea and East China Sea to the modern national metropolitan capital region of the State of Japan.
Finally pushing back from Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
The in-flight aircraft safety briefing demonstration video reminding passengers that smoking on board the aircraft, including the use of electronic cigarettes and tampering with, disabling or destroying lavatory smoke detectors, is prohibited under the regulations of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS)
About to taxi away from Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 shortly after pushing back from Gate No. E24
A Singapore Airlines Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, registered 9V-SCQ, resting at Gate No. E12 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 after arriving from her regional early evening flight over the South China Sea from the Republic of the Philippines as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 921 from Manila. She will then have a long overnight flight over the South China Sea and East China Sea to the State of Japan as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 672 bound for Nagoya (Centrair)
A Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-312/ER, registered 9V-SWT, resting at Gate No. E11 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 after arriving from her regional early evening return flight over the Java Sea from the Republic of Indonesia as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 965 from Jakarta (SoekarnoｰHatta)
Bypassing Gates No. E11 and E12 shortly after pushing back from Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
One additional view of D-ABVZ being serviced at Gate No. E8 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in preparation for her coming long overnight return flight over the Indian Ocean back to the Federal Republic of Germany as Lufthansa flight LH 781 bound for Frankfurt
Bypassing Gate No. E8 shortly after pushing back from Gate No. E24 located in Concourse E at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Making a right turn along the main airport tarmac in the direction leading to the tarmac passageway at Singapore Changi Airport
Making a left turn along the main airport tarmac towards the taxiway near Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Overlooking the central part of the construction site of the future Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 5 on the way to the assigned airport runway located near Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 1
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat while taxiing along the main airport tarmac towards the assigned airport runway
Overlooking the northern part of the construction site of the future Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 5 on the way to the assigned airport runway located near Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 1
Making a right turn towards the assigned airport runway located near Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 1
Singapore Airlines Flight 636 ~ Late Night Departure From Singapore Changi Airport
Ascending further into the dark late night sky over the Singapore Strait shortly after taking off from Singapore Changi Airport
Shortly after taking off from Singapore Changi Airport, the 'fasten seat belt' signs were safely turned off at precisely 23:10 hrs, which was approximately five minutes into the journey. As the flight attendants sprung into action to commence the in-flight service, I went to an empty lavatory and got out my electronic gadgets for my entertainment use during the course of the flight. The passengers were even gently reminded to keep their seat belts securely fastened at all times whenever seated in cases of unexpected turbulence.
To ensure that they were well-rested before the arrival into Tokyo (Haneda) later on, many of the passengers decided to get some sleep and have their meals just after waking up. A flight attendant soon came by my seat to ask what beverage I wanted to accompany my main in-flight supper course. As my entrée would involve red meat, I instantly requested for a glass of 2022 Château Pey La Tour Réserve, Bordeaux, French red wine to be served with my supper. At the exact same time, I also decided to have a glass of Baileys Irish Cream to help myself get settled in for the coming overnight flight to Tokyo (Haneda).
With that instant, the flight attendant carefully noted down the order and headed into the galley area to assist the other crew members in preparing for the in-flight late night supper service for the passengers who were still awake. It was not really long before she eventually reappeared at my seat with my single glass of Baileys Irish Cream by exactly 23:20 hrs sharp, even going as far as giving me a small packet of M&M's Milk Chocolate candies. While patiently waiting for my meal entrée to be served later on, I quietly settled down into my seat to have my Baileys Irish Cream and M&M's Milk Chocolate candies, with my laptop providing me with the entertainment I needed for the flight.
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat shortly after the seat belt signs had been turned off
A warning sign in the lavatory reminding passengers that smoking on board the aircraft, including the use of electronic cigarettes and tampering with, disabling or destroying lavatory smoke detectors, is prohibited under the regulations of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS)
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin during cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Tanjung Pinang, Indonesia
A view of my seat, 20K, in its lounging position during cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Tanjung Pinang, Indonesia
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Tanjung Pinang, Indonesia
Cruising over the South China Sea near Tanjung Pinang, Indonesia
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Tanjung Pinang, Indonesia
A glass of Baileys Irish Cream for myself during cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Tanjung Pinang, Indonesia
Planning out the first section of my solo overseas getaway vacation trip report on my blog via my portable laptop during cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Tanjung Pinang, Indonesia, using Frutiger LT Std as the standard font for the trip report
A small packet of M&M's Milk Chocolate candies for myself during cruising altitude over the South China Sea near Tanjung Pinang, Indonesia
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the South China Sea near the Riau Islands, Indonesia
Cruising over the South China Sea near the Riau Islands, Indonesia
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea near the Riau Islands, Indonesia
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Pontianak, West Kalimantan, Indonesia, and Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia
Cruising over the South China Sea between Pontianak, West Kalimantan, Indonesia, and Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Pontianak, West Kalimantan, Indonesia, and Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia
After spending approximately half an hour of using my portable laptop and having my late snacks, a flight cabin attendant soon appeared at my seat at exactly 23:40 hrs. This time, she had my in-flight supper meal tray consisting of a selection of sliced fresh fruits, together with my entrée of Japanese A4 Wagyu beef yakiniku with assorted seasonal vegetables and steamed white rice. She also took the liberty to pour my glass of 2022 Château Pey La Tour Réserve, Bordeaux, French red wine directly at my seat and gave me a fresh croissant to accompany my meal.
Once I had kindly thanked the in-flight attendant for her services, I instantly tucked into my main in-flight meal course. The Japanese Wagyu beef pieces tasted truly succulent and tender, as if they melted in my mouth like several pieces of butter, with the steamed Japanese white rice, seasonal vegetables and French red wine pairing quite well with the entrée. Both the fruits and croissant even tasted really good to help aid with the digestion of my main meal course. This would thus be one of the best in-flight meal dishes I have ever had on board, and I would never regret my choice of ordering such an undoubtedly famous dish on Singapore Airlines.
Upon completely finishing my in-flight meal entrée, the on-board clock was finally showing 00:05 hrs. As a passing flight cabin crew attendant came to collect my used in-flight supper meal tray, she asked me whether there was anything else I wanted. I then reminded her of both the KrisShop duty-free purchases I had made online before the flight and requested for a glass of hot Milo to warm up for the night. However, owing to turbulence over the South China Sea between Sibu and Kuching, Sarawak, the flight attendant kindly reminded me that everybody had to be buckled up for safety.
She also informed me that my duty-free purchases and hot beverage order would be delivered to my seat once the aircraft had safely passed through the areas of turbulence. With that, I thanked the flight crew attendant for her assurance and sat down to surf on my laptop while waiting out the in-flight turbulence. Once the aircraft had directly passed through the major areas of turbulence and the 'fasten seat belt' signs had been turned off, a flight attendant appeared by my seat by 00:25 hrs. This time, she had two sealed KrisShop security tamper-evident duty-free bags containing a Scale 1:500 die-cast airplane model and a blue batik pouch produced directly in collaboration with Singapore Fashion Runway.
Upon verifying both my duty-free purchases, I thanked the flight attendant for her efforts and stowed them away in my baggage prior to receiving my mug of hot Milo at 00:30 hrs sharp. As soon as I had finished my hot Milo, I requested a flight attendant to convert my major Business Class seat into a lie-flat bed of 180º. With that, I silently went over to the lavatory while she quietly made my seat into a lie-flat bed of 180º. Once I had returned to my seat, I did some personal surfing on my laptop prior to finally turning in by 00:40 hrs for a well-earned good night's rest.
As for the exclusive Scale 1:500 die-cast aircraft model I had purchased online via the airline's KrisShop website, the details are as follows:
Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941 Herpa Scale 1:500 (529051-001)
My in-flight supper entrée: Japanese A4 Wagyu beef yakiniku served with seasonal vegetables and steamed white rice
A glass of 2022 Château Pey La Tour Réserve, Bordeaux, French red wine to accompany my main in-flight late night supper course
An overall view of my in-flight late night supper shortly before I tucked in for the night
A piece of freshly-baked croissant to accompany my in-flight late night supper entrée
My used in-flight late night supper meal tray shortly after I had finished my in-flight late night supper entrée
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Cruising over the South China Sea between Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
My newly-purchased Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Herpa Wings Scale 1:500 exclusive die-cast aircraft model and blue batik pouch produced in collaboration with Singapore Fashion Runway sealed in two KrisShop security tamper-evident bags (STEBs) as I had purchased them online via the airline's KrisShop website approximately two months before my flight
A mug of hot Milo for myself during cruising altitude between Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Cruising over the South China Sea between Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
A view of my seat, 20K, in its complete lie-flat bed position during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Cam Ranh, Vietnam, and Puerto Princesa, Philippines
Cruising over the South China Sea between Cam Ranh, Vietnam, and Puerto Princesa, Philippines
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Cam Ranh, Vietnam, and Puerto Princesa, Philippines, shortly before I turned in for the night
Part 2(b) ~ The Descent Cum Arrival Into Tokyo (Haneda)
After getting approximately 3 hours 45 minutes of undisturbed rest over the South China Sea, I woke up by 05:25 hrs to the first sights of daylight across the East China Sea, in accordance with the Japan Standard Time (JST). Given that most of the passengers were still sleeping, I quietly headed to a nearby empty restroom to freshen up and brush my teeth prior to the descent cum arrival into Tokyo (Haneda). Noticing that I was both active and awake, one of the flight attendants asked me whether there was anything I wanted.
I soon requested the flight attendant to convert my bed back into a seat and for a glass of iced green tea, knowing that I had never been a coffee drinker in my life. By 05.30 hrs, many of the passengers were gradually beginning to wake up to have their in-flight meals after having a good night's sleep for a considerable length of the main overnight journey itself. With that moment, the in-flight cabin attendant converted my bed back into a seat and headed back to the galley to prepare my glass of iced green tea for the morning.
Upon receiving my glass of iced green tea by 05:35 hrs, I kindly requested the flight attendant for a small packet of black caviar-flavored potato chips as an early morning snack. Noting down the snack request, I received my packet of black caviar-flavored potato chips at 05:40 hrs and found the taste to be nice and crispy, giving me the sensation that I was actually having some caviar. As soon as I had finished my tea and potato chips, my used packet and tea glass were soon cleared away and I sat back to use my portable laptop until it was time for the early morning descent cum arrival into Tokyo (Haneda).
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Miyazaki Prefecture and Kochi Prefecture shortly after I had woken up
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Miyazaki Prefecture and Kochi Prefecture
Cruising over the Philippine Sea between Miyazaki Prefecture and Kochi Prefecture
A view of my seat, 17K, in its complete lie-flat bed position during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Miyazaki Prefecture and Kochi Prefecture
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Miyazaki Prefecture and Kochi Prefecture
A glass of iced green tea to freshen myself up during cruising altitude over the Kii Peninsula between Tokushima Prefecture and Wakayama Prefecture
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Kii Peninsula between Tokushima Prefecture and Wakayama Prefecture
Cruising over the Kii Peninsula between Tokushima Prefecture and Wakayama Prefecture
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Kii Peninsula between Tokushima Prefecture and Wakayama Prefecture
Watching "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York" (1992) on my portable laptop during cruising altitude over the Kii Peninsula between Tokushima Prefecture and Wakayama Prefecture, with the scene showing Peter McCallister (played by the late John Heard) and Kate McCallister (played by the late Catherine O'Hara) looking at each other in disbelief upon realizing that their youngest son, Kevin McCallister, is missing during baggage claim at Miami International Airport
A small packet of black caviar-flavored potato chips for myself during cruising altitude over the Kii Peninsula between Wakayama Prefecture and Aichi Prefecture
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Kii Peninsula between Wakayama Prefecture and Aichi Prefecture
Cruising over the Kii Peninsula between Wakayama Prefecture and Aichi Prefecture
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Kii Peninsula between Wakayama Prefecture and Aichi Prefecture
A view of my seat, 20K, in its original position during cruising altitude over Ise Bay between Aichi Prefecture and Shizuoka Prefecture
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin during cruising altitude over Ise Bay between Aichi Prefecture and Shizuoka Prefecture
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over Ise Bay between Aichi Prefecture and Shizuoka Prefecture
Cruising over Ise Bay between Aichi Prefecture and Shizuoka Prefecture
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin during cruising altitude over the Izu Peninsula close to Shizuoka Prefecture
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Izu Peninsula close to Shizuoka Prefecture
A view of my seat, 20K, in its original position during cruising altitude over the Izu Peninsula close to Shizuoka Prefecture
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Izu Peninsula close to Shizuoka Prefecture
Cruising over the Izu Peninsula close to Shizuoka Prefecture
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin during cruising altitude over the Izu Peninsula close to Shizuoka Prefecture
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat before after the seat belt signs were illuminated in preparation for the descent cum arrival into Tokyo (Haneda)
In accordance with the Japan Standard Time (JST), the 'fasten seat belt' lights were illuminated again by 05:55 hrs, which was approximately 20 minutes in preparation for the morning descent cum approach into Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport). Considering that I had less than 45 minutes before my morning arrival into Tokyo (Haneda), I promptly stored the remainder of my belongings into their storage areas and fastened my seat belt before the wide-body aircraft could commence its approach into its destination. All the flight crew attendants also went through the aircraft cabin conducting their safety checks at the same time.
The morning sun shone very radiantly throughout Tokyo Bay as the aircraft began to commence its approach into Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport). After a relatively long overnight flight time of 6 hours 10 minutes across the South China Sea and East China Sea from the tropical island city-state of the Republic of Singapore near the Straits of Johor, I soon touched down into Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) at 06:15 hrs sharp, approximately half an hour ahead of schedule. The plane then taxied over the large main airport tarmac to its assigned arrival airport gate located at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3.
Tokyo International Airport (Japanese: 東京国際空港; Traditional Chinese: 東京國際機場; Korean: 도쿄 국제공항), also known as Haneda Airport (Japanese: 羽田空港; Traditional Chinese: 羽田機場; Korean: 하네다 공항), is a large major international airport complex located near Tokyo Bay around the suburban outskirts of Ota-ku, Tokyo, Japan. It is one of the two international airports serving the Greater Tokyo Area, the world's fourth-busiest airport complex, the third-busiest airport in Asia and the busiest airport in Japan, with more than 87.1 million passengers passing through the major airport complex by 2018. The airport itself serves as a main hub for Air Do, All Nippon Airways, Japan Airlines, Skymark Airlines, Solaseed Air and StarFlyer, including as an integral focus city for Delta Air Lines and Singapore Airlines.
The airport was safely opened for service on 25 August 1931, becoming the gateway for customers entering Tokyo for several years. However, after the opening of Narita International Airport from 20 May 1978, Haneda Airport catered to domestic flights while Narita International Airport catered to all major international flights to and from the large Greater Tokyo Area. From 29 November 2003, Haneda Airport began to cater to limited international services for Mainland China, Hong Kong and South Korea, with a relatively small and isolated International Terminal building. An additional domestic passenger terminal, Terminal 2, was also opened from 1 December 2004 to cater to increased domestic passenger traffic at the airport.
From 21 October 2010, a larger International Terminal complex was officially opened for service, allowing Haneda Airport to cater to international flights during the early morning and late midnight hours after Narita International Airport has ended its business operations for the day. However, this resulted in major complaints due to most facilities and enterprises being closed after midnight hours. To rectify these complaints, a new boarding gate concourse was opened from 30 March 2014, allowing Haneda Airport to cater to more international flights during the daylight hours. A four-star hotel connecting to the main International Terminal building, known as The Royal Park Hotel Tokyo Haneda, was also opened for service on 30 September 2014.
From 14 March 2020, the International Terminal was eventually renamed as Terminal 3 as Terminal 2 began to cater to some international flights by All Nippon Airways on 29 March 2020. However, the major international flight section of Terminal 2 was closed from 11 April 2020 due to the outbreak of COVID-19, eventually reopening on 19 July 2023. From 31 January 2023, an airport multi-purpose complex close to Terminal 3, Haneda Airport Garden (Japanese: 羽田エアポートガーデン; Traditional Chinese: 羽田機場花園), was opened, also housing two main Villa Fontaine hotels, 20 restaurant outlets and at least 60 retail outlet stores.
The airport is safely accessible from the Hamamatsucho district in Minato-ku, Tokyo, via the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line, with the premium non-stop Haneda Express services taking approximately 20 minutes. There are no extra charges necessary for the Tokyo Monorail for foreigners traveling with a Japan Rail Pass, with a JR East Travel Service Center situated on the second level at Terminal 3. The Keihin Kyuko Line provides through train services to Shinagawa, with certain railway services going as far as Narita International Airport via the Toei Asakusa Line, Keisei Main Line and Keisei Narita Airport Line (Narita Sky Access Line).
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat shortly after the seat belt signs were illuminated in preparation for the descent cum arrival into Tokyo (Haneda)
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Izu Peninsula between Shizuoka Prefecture and Kanagawa Prefecture
Cruising over the Izu Peninsula between Shizuoka Prefecture and Kanagawa Prefecture
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Izu Peninsula between Shizuoka Prefecture and Kanagawa Prefecture
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Boso Peninsula close to Kamogawa, Chiba
Cruising over the Boso Peninsula close to Kamogawa, Chiba
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Boso Peninsula close to Kamogawa, Chiba
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Boso Peninsula between Kamogawa and Tateyama, Chiba
Cruising over the Boso Peninsula between Kamogawa and Tateyama, Chiba
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Boso Peninsula between Kamogawa and Tateyama, Chiba
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Boso Peninsula between Tateyama and Minamiboso, Chiba
Cruising over the Boso Peninsula between Tateyama and Minamiboso, Chiba
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Boso Peninsula between Tateyama and Minamiboso, Chiba
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Boso Peninsula between Minamiboso and Kyonan, Awa District, Chiba
Cruising over the Boso Peninsula between Minamiboso and Kyonan, Awa District, Chiba
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Boso Peninsula between Minamiboso and Kyonan, Awa District, Chiba
Cruising close to the waters of Tokyo Bay between Kyonan, Awa District, and Futtsu, Chiba
Cruising over some industrial settlements in Futtsu, Chiba, near the waters of Tokyo Bay as the aircraft begins to make its final approach into Tokyo (Haneda)
Cruising over several local residential areas in Futtsu, Chiba, near the waters of Tokyo Bay as the aircraft begins to make its final approach into Tokyo (Haneda)
Cruising over some residential and farming areas between Futtsu and Kisarazu, Chiba, near the waters of Tokyo Bay as the aircraft begins to make its final approach into Tokyo (Haneda)
Cruising over some industrial areas in Kisarazu, Chiba, near the waters of Tokyo Bay as the aircraft begins to make its final approach into Tokyo (Haneda)
Singapore Airlines Flight 636 ~ Bright Early Morning Arrival Into Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport)
Making a right turn along the main airport tarmac towards Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 shortly after the aircraft had landed
A China Eastern Airlines Boeing 777-39P/ER, registered B-2021, waiting to be towed to Gate No. 145 located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 in preparation for her coming regional early morning return flight over the East China Sea back to the People's Republic of China (Mainland China) as China Eastern Airlines flight MU 576 bound for Shanghai (Pudong)
An All Nippon Airways Boeing 777-381/ER, registered JA790A, resting at Gate No. 108B located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 after arriving from her long overnight transpacific return flight over the North Pacific Ocean as All Nippon Airways flight NH 107 from San Francisco. She will then have a regional early morning flight over the Sea of Japan and Yellow Sea to the People's Republic of China (Mainland China) as All Nippon Airways flight NH 961 bound for Beijing (Capital)
Finally arriving at my assigned arrival gate, Gate No. 106A, located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat shortly after arriving at my assigned arrival gate, Gate No. 106A, located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3
After taxiing across the central airport tarmac for approximately five minutes to Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3, I finally reached my assigned arrival contact gate, Gate No. 106A, at 06:20 hrs sharp. Once the seat belt signs were turned off, I safely unbuckled my seat belt and retrieved my carry-on belongings from their stowage areas before the disembarkation procedure at Gate No. 106A could commence safely. I also conducted a final spot check around my seating area to make sure that I had not left anything behind on board the aircraft.
The flight attendants soon opened both the two front aircraft doors securely to allow everybody to disembark from the plane at Gate No. 106A located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3. Disembarking from 9V-SWU via the first aircraft door, the in-flight cabin attendants thanked me for choosing to travel with Singapore Airlines and wished me a pleasant and fun-filled overseas getaway journey in eastern Japan. I then walked through the jet bridge of Gate No. 106A into the central passenger terminal building at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3.
After flying with an airline on any particular flight sector, I give the airline an overall holistic airline score report to determine whether that airline is worth flying with for that major flight sector. If that flight has a rapid stopover at a different airport before its final destination, the airline shall receive the final score report at the end of the second flight journey section. For example, if I am flying on Singapore Airlines flight SQ 012 from Singapore to Los Angeles via Tokyo (Narita), the airline will receive the final score report at the end of the second flight sector from Tokyo (Narita) to Los Angeles.
There are five components that constitute an overall airline score report, which consist of the seating, in-flight catering, in-flight service, legroom space and aircraft cleanliness. With each component weighing 20 points (thereby implying 20% of the final scores each), the overall airline score report has a maximum of 100 points. An airline company must attain an overall airline score of 50 points or higher out of 100 points to receive a passing grade following any flight sector, whether it is a one-stop flight service or a non-stop flight service.
The top two grades, 'Outstanding' and 'Exceeds Expectations', are quality passes, while 'Acceptable' is a borderline pass. 'Fair' and 'Poor' are below passes, with the lowest grade being 'Dreadful', thereby meaning that the airline has failed to satisfy the prerequisite for the minimum grade. With increasing competition levels between global airlines, this airline grading system is updated every three to four years, though in view of the global outbreak of COVID-19, there will be delays in implementing a newer and more up-to-date aggregate scoring system until 1 August 2026.
As of 1 May 2026, the airline grading system for my overseas travels is as follows:
Outstanding: 80% or above (Airline has an excellent rating and performance)
Exceeds Expectations: 65% ~ 79% (Airline has a good rating and performance)
Acceptable: 50% ~ 64% (Airline has an adequate rating and performance)
Fair: 35% ~ 49% (Airline has a fair rating and performance)
Poor: 20% ~ 34% (Airline has a poor rating and performance)
Dreadful: Below 20% (Airline has failed to meet the prerequisite for the minimum grade)
Singapore Airlines Flight 636 Score Report
Seating: 19 / 20
In-flight Catering: 19 / 20
In-flight Service: 18 / 20
Aircraft Cleanliness: 18 / 20
Legroom Space: 18 / 20
Total: 92 / 100
Grade: Outstanding
In consideration of the individual major airline score components, Singapore Airlines has obtained a total aggregate score of 92% for the in-bound flight segment from Singapore to Tokyo (Haneda), implying they have successfully achieved the highest airline grade of 'Outstanding'. Not only were the seats comfortable and wide for my preferences, but the in-flight crew attendants were quite approachable and went out of their way to cater to my requests professionally. I was also impressed by the major in-flight catering, with the in-flight supper dish of Japanese Wagyu Beef yakiniku serving as the major highlight of the in-flight meal service. This was indeed a job very well done, Singapore Airlines! You have indeed proven to be 'A Great Way to Fly'.
Part 3 ~ The Journey To The Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama
After disembarking from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 from Singapore by Gate No. 106A safely with my belongings, I walked through the passageway connecting over to the main post-arrival immigration checkpoints located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3. The entire passage connecting from Gate No. 106A to the local arrival immigration checkpoints took not more than approximately five minutes that morning. Reaching the central arrival immigration checkpoints at precisely 06:30 hrs, I quickly went to the foreign visitors' section and got out my passport and necessary travel documents to be directly checked by the local immigration officers. Despite the crowds of travelers waiting to enter Japan, the post-arrival immigration process took not more than approximately five minutes.
Upon clearing the arrival immigration checkpoints at precisely 06:35 hrs, I promptly went to check which baggage carousel belt my bulkier check-in baggage would securely arrive at. According to the baggage information screens, all bulky check-in baggage from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 from Singapore would arrive at Belt B. With that moment, I immediately headed into the main baggage claiming lobby to grab one baggage cart prior to proceeding over to Belt B to collect all my bulkier baggage from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 from Singapore. I also had to undergo a post-arrival customs check so as to make sure that I was not carrying any prohibited or controlled items into Japan.
Walking through the jet bridge of Gate No. 106A in the direction leading to the arrival immigration checkpoints located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 shortly after disembarking from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 from Singapore
A close-up of 9V-SWU resting at Gate No. 106A located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 after arriving from her long overnight flight over the South China Sea and East China Sea from the Republic of Singapore as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 from Singapore
One final view of 9V-SWU resting at Gate No. 106A located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 after arriving from her long overnight flight over the South China Sea and East China Sea from the Republic of Singapore as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 from Singapore
Walking through the automated passageway leading to the arrival immigration checkpoints located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours
Getting closer to the arrival immigration checkpoints located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours
After collecting my bulkier check-in baggage from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 from Singapore at Belt B and passing through post-arrival Japanese customs, I was inside the arrivals and meeting lobby of Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 at precisely 06:40 hrs. Given that I was feeling rather thirsty just after passing through immigration and collecting my bulkier check-in baggage, I immediately decided to search for a nearby airport cafeteria to have some morning tea before doing anything else.
With that instant, I immediately walked through the major post-arrivals and meeting level of Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 in search of a cafeteria for some early morning tea while pushing my baggage cart. Soon enough, I finally arrived at a well-known cafeteria outlet, known as Tully's Coffee (Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Branch) (タリーズコーヒー 羽田空港第3ターミナル店), securely by exactly 06:45 hrs sharp. Knowing that the seating areas were rather crowded at this time, I knew that I would have to leave my baggage cart outside the seating areas of the cafeteria.
Placing my baggage cart adjacent to the cafeteria entrance, I promptly went to the major ordering counter and safely ordered a cup of cold brew tea for myself. Once I had received my cup of morning tea, I quickly found a nearby vacant seating spot and slowly sipped on my morning tea while doing some private surfing on my laptop. Although six years had passed since the major outbreak of COVID-19, I wisely kept my face mask on to protect myself from getting COVID-19 or any other potentially contageous illnesses in Japan.
Finally inside the main arrivals and meeting lobby located on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours
Walking through the main arrivals and meeting lobby located on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 in search of a nearby cafeteria for some light early morning tea during the early morning rush hours
Finally arriving at Tully's Coffee (Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Branch) (タリーズコーヒー 羽田空港第3ターミナル店) located in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor of Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours
A cup of cold brew tea for myself at Tully's Coffee (Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Branch) (タリーズコーヒー 羽田空港第3ターミナル店) located in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 on a bright and clear summer's early morning
The view of the main seating area at Tully's Coffee (Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Branch) (タリーズコーヒー 羽田空港第3ターミナル店) located in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 shortly before I departed the cafeteria to run more post-arrival errands
After having some light early morning tea and doing some overseas getaway trip report editing on my laptop at Tully's Coffee (Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Branch) (タリーズコーヒー 羽田空港第3ターミナル店), the passenger terminal clock was now showing 07:10 hrs. Given that I was in need of a shower after my flight from Singapore earlier on, I promptly collected my belongings and walked through the arrivals and meeting level in search for a nearby airport shower lounge. Soon enough, I safely arrived at the entrance to The Shower Room located on the second floor at 07:15 hrs.
Heading to the shower lounge reception counter, a shower staff receptionist informed me that there were several other people waiting for a post-arrival shower and that a vacant slot would thus be available for me from 08:15 hrs later on. Given that it would be another hour before a vacant major shower slot for me, I securely decided to use the time to proceed to Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station to get both my Japan Rail Pass and a Suica smart card for myself. With that, I promptly thanked the staff receptionist and claimed my baggage cart before walking through the central post-arrivals and meeting lobby in the direction leading to Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station.
Soon enough, I finally arrived at the major Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line ticketing concourse at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station by 07:20 hrs. Proceeding to the JR East Travel Service Center, I promptly informed a staff member nearby that I had purchased my Green-type Japan Rail Pass online and left my baggage cart at the main entrance. I soon went to the nearest open counter area, where I quickly showed my passport to another JR East Travel Service Center lady staff receptionist on duty. The whole Green-type Japan Rail Pass verification process took approximately five minutes.
Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station (Japanese: 羽田空港第3ターミナル駅; Thai: สถานี สนามบินฮาเนดะ อาคาร 3; Chinese: 羽田機場第3航站樓站) is an airport rail link station complex located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) by 6-5 Haneda-kuko 2-chome, Ota-ku, Tokyo, Japan. It is securely connected over to the main passenger terminal building at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3, with the Keikyu Line station platforms located below the core passenger terminal building and the Tokyo Monorail station platforms linked with the departures and check-in area located on the third floor. All trains to and from the airport make stop here, with certain Keikyu Line railway services operating as far as Narita International Airport located in Chiba Prefecture via the Toei Asakusa Line and the Narita Sky Access Line.
The station was opened on 21 October 2010 in conjunction with the opening of the current International Terminal at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport), with its station name written as 羽田空港国際線ビル駅 for the Tokyo Monorail line and as 羽田空港国際線ターミナル駅 for the Keikyu Airport Line. The major railway lines had mutual English names known as Haneda Airport International Terminal Station. A JR East Travel Service Center is situated just below the Tokyo Monorail platforms in the main arrival and meeting hall on the second floor, with its business hours from 06:45 hrs to 20:00 hrs daily.
From the start of the revised timetable on 14 March 2020, with the renaming of the current International Terminal to Terminal 3, the entire railway station complex was finally renamed to its current name as Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station. As of 14 March 2026, the railway station complex has two elevated side platforms catering to two tracks for the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line, and two underground side platforms serving just two railway tracks for the Keikyu Airport Line.
The exterior view of Tully's Coffee (Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Branch) (タリーズコーヒー 羽田空港第3ターミナル店) located in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 as I begin my post-arrival errands for the morning
Walking through the arrivals and meeting lobby located on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 in the direction leading to The Shower Room during the early morning rush hours
Getting close to the northern end of the arrivals and meeting lobby located on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours
Bypassing Air BicCamera (Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Branch) (2nd Branch) (Air BicCamera 羽田空港第3ターミナル店 2号店) located in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 on the way to The Shower Room during the early morning rush hours
Bypassing the connecting domestic flight check-in counters in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours
Finally arriving at the main entrance to The Shower Room located in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours, where a vacant post-arrival shower slot would be available for me from 08:15 hrs
Walking through the arrivals and meeting lobby located on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 in the direction leading to Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station during the early morning rush hours
Approaching the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line ticketing concourse at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station during the early morning rush hours
Bypassing the automated ticketing machines in the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line ticketing concourse at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station during the early morning rush hours
Finally arriving at the main entrance to the JR East Travel Service Center located in the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line ticketing concourse at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station during the early morning rush hours
After completing the entire Japan Rail Pass verification process in the JR East Travel Service Center located at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, I directly received my one-week Green-type Japan Rail Pass by precisely 07:25 hrs. The valid dates of unrestricted railway usage would then last consecutively from Sunday (31 May) until Saturday (6 June). With my Japan Rail Pass safely kept in the pockets of my wallet, I soon knew that the next thing to do would be to proceed back to The Shower Room for a post-arrival shower.
However, since I had some Green Car (first class) reservations to make, I thus informed the JR East Travel Service Center staff member on duty of my own plans to make major day trips to various destinations. With that, I spent the next 25 minutes making all my necessary seat reservations for various major destinations, such as Hakodate, Osaka and Tsuruga. At the same time, I also directly purchased a Suica smart card for commuter railroad trips in eastern Japan outside of my Japan Rail Pass periods, placing a monetary balance of ¥10,500 (S$84.15) in it. As soon as I had finished making my required major reservations and getting my Suica card, the clock was showing 07:50 hrs.
With both my Japan Rail Pass and Suica smart card secured, I passed through the main arrivals and meeting lobby in the direction leading to The Shower Room, thus arriving back by around 07:55 hrs. Heading to the major shower reception counter, the staff receptionist on duty informed me that I still had 20 minutes left before a vacant major shower room slot would be available for me. Once the airport clock struck exactly 08:15 hrs, the staff receptionist informed me that each shower session would cost only ¥1,500 (S$12.05) for the first half an hour or so, with an extra charge of ¥750 (S$6.00) applicable for every subsequent 15 minutes thereafter.
However, due to capacity constraints around the major shower room cubicle areas, I knew that I would have to leave my large baggage by the reception counters to be looked after by both the receptionists. Upon directly making the necessary payments, I was safely given my assigned shower room key by one of the staff receptionists on duty. The shower staff receptionist on duty kindly informed me that I would be allocated to Room F for my post-arrival airport shower, with the allocated shower room cubicle itself free for me to use until 08:50 hrs later that morning.
With that, I then thanked the shower staff receptionist and took my airport shower room key before heading over to my allocated shower Room F with my lighter belongings. Inserting the key into the locks of Room F, I instantly turned on the light and saw that there was a main shower cubicle with the necessary liquid soaps, a hairdryer, several towels and a vanity mirror. Once the door was locked, I went to have a well-deserved shower in The Shower Room at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3.
The main entrance to the JR East Travel Service Center located in the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line ticketing concourse at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 shortly after I had obtained my one-week Green-type Japan Rail Pass and my Suica smart card during the early morning rush hours
Bypassing the airport limousine bus ticketing counters in the arrivals and meeting lobby located on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 on the way back to The Shower Room during the early morning rush hours
Walking through the arrivals and meeting lobby located on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 on the way back to The Shower Room during the early morning rush hours
Bypassing Air BicCamera (Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Branch) (2nd Branch) (Air BicCamera 羽田空港第3ターミナル店 2号店) located in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 on the way back to The Shower Room during the early morning rush hours
Approaching the northern end of the arrivals and meeting lobby located on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours
Finally arriving back at the main entrance to The Shower Room located in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours
Walking through the passageway in The Shower Room located in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 in the direction leading to my assigned shower Room F
Finally arriving at my assigned shower Room F in The Shower Room located in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3
The interior of my assigned shower Room F in The Shower Room located in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3
A pair of Type A and Type B AC power outlets in my assigned shower Room F in The Shower Room located in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3
One additional view of my assigned shower Room F in The Shower Room located in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 shortly after I had finished my post-arrival airport shower
After having a very well-earned and refreshing shower in The Shower Room located in the post-arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3, the local clock safely was showing 08:30 hrs. Checking to ensure that there was nothing left behind, I turned off the lights and locked my assigned Room F before heading to the reception counters to return the key and grabbing my baggage cart. Since I was feeling rather hungry, I decided to head to Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 for breakfast prior to commencing my railroad journey to Yokohama.
With that moment, I quickly departed The Shower Room and went back into the local post-arrivals and meeting lobby prior to catching a nearby elevator down to Entrance Plaza on the first floor, eventually reaching there safely at 08:40 hrs. Returning the baggage cart at the airport cart pool, I grabbed my baggage and promptly boarded a waiting yellow free inter-airport terminal shuttle bus for the coming routine bus trip to Terminal 2. Once the bus door was securely closed, I departed Terminal 3 by 08:45 hrs sharp for a free main inter-airport terminal shuttle bus trip of only 10 minutes to Terminal 2.
The main entrance to The Shower Room located in the arrivals and meeting lobby on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 as I begin to make my way down to the Entrance Plaza on the first floor during the early morning rush hours
Walking through the arrivals and meeting lobby located on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 on the way to the Entrance Plaza on the first floor during the early morning rush hours
Approaching the elevator lobby in the arrivals and meeting lobby located on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 on the way down to the Entrance Plaza on the first floor during the early morning rush hours
Walking through the Entrance Plaza located on the first floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours
The drop-off and pick-up points located outside the Entrance Plaza on the first floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours
Approaching the free inter-airport terminal shuttle bus stand located outside the Entrance Plaza on the first floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours
A yellow free inter-airport terminal shuttle bus waiting at the free inter-airport terminal shuttle bus stand located outside the Entrance Plaza on the first floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours
The interior of the yellow free inter-airport terminal shuttle bus shortly before departing Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3
Finally departing Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Traveling parallel to the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line tracks shortly after departing Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
About to cross underneath the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line tracks shortly after departing Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Making a left turn towards Tokyo Metropolitan Route 311 shortly after departing Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Traveling through Tokyo Metropolitan Route 311 along Kanpachi-dori, Ota-ku, Tokyo, on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
About to cross underneath the main airport tarmac at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) through Tokyo Metropolitan Route 311 along Kanpachi-dori, Ota-ku, Tokyo, on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
The interior of the yellow free inter-airport terminal shuttle bus while crossing underneath the main airport tarmac at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) through Tokyo Metropolitan Route 311 along Kanpachi-dori, Ota-ku, Tokyo, in the direction leading to Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminals 1 and 2
About to exit Tokyo Metropolitan Route 311 along Kanpachi-dori, Ota-ku, Tokyo, on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Making a left turn towards Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminals 1 and 2 along Kanpachi-dori, Ota-ku, Tokyo, shortly after exiting Tokyo Metropolitan Route 311 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Traveling along the side road connecting to Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminals 1 and 2 along Kanpachi-dori, Ota-ku, Tokyo, shortly after exiting Tokyo Metropolitan Route 311 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Keeping left towards Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminals 1 and 2 along Kanpachi-dori, Ota-ku, Tokyo, shortly after exiting Tokyo Metropolitan Route 311 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Making a right turn towards Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 1 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Bypassing the multi-level parking garage near Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 1 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Making a brief stop at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 1 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Bypassing another multi-level parking garage near Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 1 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Keeping right towards Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 shortly after departing Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 1 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Crossing the airport road bridge above the Japan National Route 357 and Bayshore Route highways in Haneda-kuko 3-chome, Ota-ku, Tokyo, on the way to Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Making a right turn towards Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Bypassing the multi-level parking garage near Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Finally arriving at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
After a routine free main inter-airport terminal shuttle bus journey duration of 10 minutes from Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 situated across the airport complex, I securely arrived at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 by 08.55 hrs. Checking to see that I had not left anything behind, I disembarked from the shuttle bus and went into the domestic arrivals and meeting lobby on the first floor before eventually catching a nearby elevator down towards the first basement level to search for a nearby major fast food restaurant located adjacent to Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station for breakfast.
Soon enough, I finally arrived at a major fast food restaurant joint, known as McDonald's (Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station Branch) (マクドナルド 羽田空港第2ターミナル駅店), by 09:00 hrs sharp. This particular fast food outlet was rather familiar to me as I had breakfast here before between fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2025. Entering the fast food restaurant outlet, I quickly headed over to the order counters and ordered three pieces of hash browns, a single box of 15-piece Chicken McNuggets and one medium-sized Fanta Grape soda drink. As soon as I had made the necessary payment for the meal and obtained my orders, I quickly found a nearby vacant seating spot to enjoy my breakfast.
The free inter-airport terminal shuttle bus stand located outside the domestic arrivals and meeting lobby at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 on a relatively bright and clear summer's early morning
Entering the central domestic arrivals and meeting lobby located on the first floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 during the early morning rush hours
Overlooking the North Wing domestic arrivals and meeting lobby located on the first floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 during the early morning rush hours
About to catch an elevator from the central domestic arrivals and meeting lobby located on the first floor down to the first basement leve at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 during the early morning rush hours
Walking through the first basement level at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 past Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station in search of a nearby fast food restaurant outlet during the early morning rush hours
Finally arriving at McDonald's (Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station Branch) (マクドナルド 羽田空港第2ターミナル駅店) located on the first basement level at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 during the early morning rush hours. This particular fast food restaurant outlet was familiar to me as I had a fast food breakfast here during my previous solo getaway trips to eastern Japan in fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2025
The interior view of McDonald's (Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station Branch (マクドナルド 羽田空港第2ターミナル駅店) located on the first basement level at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 shortly after I had entered
A single tray of three hash browns, a box of 15-piece Chicken McNuggets and a medium-sized cup of Fanta Grape for myself at McDonald's (Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station Branch (マクドナルド 羽田空港第2ターミナル駅店) located on the first basement level at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2
The interior view of McDonald's (Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station Branch) (マクドナルド 羽田空港第2ターミナル駅店) located on the first basement level at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 from my seating area shortly after I had finished my fast food breakfast
After having a rather light and quick fast food breakfast meal at McDonald's (Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station Branch) (マクドナルド 羽田空港第2ターミナル駅店) situated directly next to the central ticketing concourse at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station, the clock was now showing 09:30 hrs. Given that the time had directly come for me to head to the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama, I securely gathered my belongings and made my way to Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station before tapping my Suica smart card at one of the automated ticketing gates.
Upon securely passing through the main ticketing gates, I went to check the departure time for the next Haneda Express train bound for Hamamatsucho. According to the departure information screens, the closest Haneda Express train bound for Hamamatsucho that I could catch would depart at 09:58 hrs sharp from Track No. 1. Without wasting anymore time, I promptly took the closest escalator down to the major station platforms in preparation for the first sector of my morning railway trip to Yokohama, thus reaching safely at precisely 09:35 hrs.
The Tokyo Monorail (Japanese: 東京モノレール; Traditional Chinese: 東京單軌電車; Simplified Chinese: 东京单轨电车; Malay: Monorel Tokyo) is a passenger straddle-beam monorail line connecting the major Hamamatsucho district in central Minato-ku, Tokyo, with Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) located near Tokyo Bay by the suburban outskirts of Ota-ku, Tokyo, Japan. It is currently one of the two regular railroad lines serving Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport), the most scenic major railway route connecting to and from the main complex of Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) and the world's most heavily-traveled monorail railway network, with more than approximately 51.2 million passengers traveling on the system by fiscal 2018. The line has a maximum operating top speed of 80 km/h (50 mph).
The line was officially opened for revenue service from 17 September 1964 in preparation for the 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. From 8 December 2001, limited-stop Rapid services were introduced to provide faster access between Hamamatsucho and the airport, with the line extended to the new Terminal 2 from 1 December 2004. A main passing loop at Showajima Station was also opened from 18 March 2007, permitting non-stop Haneda Express services to commence and operate alongside the existing Rapid and local services.
From 21 October 2010, the railway line began to serve the new International Terminal with the opening of Haneda Airport International Terminal Station. The Tokyo Monorail thus became valid for passengers traveling with a Japan Rail Pass with the opening of a major JR East Travel Service Center located in the arrivals and meeting lobby of the International Terminal. From 14 March 2020, the International Terminal was renamed as Terminal 3 once Terminal 2 began to cater to international flights operated by All Nippon Airways.
As of 1 February 2026, the 6-car 1000 series, 2000 series & 10000 series EMUs operate as the various Haneda Express (空港快速), Rapid (区間快速) and local (普通) services at top speeds of up to 80 km/h (50 mph). Throughout the day, several local trains stop briefly at Showajima Station for just two minutes to allow faster Haneda Express train services to pass through without stopping. There are no charges necessary for the Tokyo Monorail for tourists traveling with a major nationwide Japan Rail Pass, since East Japan Railway Company (JR East) operates local travel service centers in Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport).
Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station (Japanese: 羽田空港第2ターミナル駅; Thai: สถานี สนามบินฮาเนดะ อาคาร 2; Chinese: 羽田機場第2航站樓站) is an airport rail link station complex located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) at 4-2 Haneda-kuko 3-chome, Ota-ku, Tokyo, Japan. Managed exclusively by Tokyo Monorail Co., Ltd., it is located beneath the major passenger terminal of Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 and functions as the major southern terminal railway station for the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line. The railroad station is safely connected to the East Entrance of Haneda Airport Terminal 1·2 Station via a long underground passage in the lower levels of Terminals 1 and 2, thus permitting direct railway transfers to the Keikyu Airport Line.
The station was opened for revenue passenger service from 1 December 2004 to coincide with the opening of Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2, with its native Japanese name written as 羽田空港第2ビル駅 upon its opening. It also replaced Haneda Airport Station as the southern terminus for the Tokyo Monorail, with the former railroad terminus being renamed as Haneda Airport Terminal 1 Station. From 14 March 2020, the Tokyo Monorail station directly attained its current Japanese name as 羽田空港第2ターミナル駅 after the major International Terminal was rebranded as Terminal 3. As of 14 March 2026, the station has an underground island platform level serving two tracks, with an additional island platform reserved for seasonal events.
The main entrance to McDonald's (Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station Branch) (マクドナルド 羽田空港第2ターミナル駅店) located on the first basement level at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 during the morning off-peak hours as I begin to make my way to Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
Bypassing the automated ticketing machines in the main ticketing concourse at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station during the morning off-peak hours
Approaching the ticketing gates in the main ticketing concourse at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station during the morning off-peak hours
Approaching the escalators leading down to the main station platforms at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station during the morning off-peak hours
Finally arriving at the main station platforms at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station during the morning off-peak hours
A 6-car Tokyo Monorail 10000 series EMU Set No. 10021F, operating as the 09:38 hrs "Haneda Express" service bound for Hamamatsucho, on Track No. 2 at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
An out-of-service 6-car Tokyo Monorail 2000 series EMU Set No. 2031F on Track No. 1 at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
The overall view of the main station platforms at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station during the morning off-peak hours
Overlooking the disused island platform from Track No. 2 at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station during the morning off-peak hours
A 6-car Tokyo Monorail 10000 series EMU Set No. 10051F, operating as the 09:45 hrs local service bound for Hamamatsucho, on Track No. 2 at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
A 6-car Tokyo Monorail 10000 series EMU Set No. 10031F, painted in the "Kiki & Lala Monorail Twinkle Tour" special livery and operating as the 09:48 hrs "Haneda Express" service bound for Hamamatsucho, on Track No. 1 at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
A 6-car Tokyo Monorail 10000 series EMU Set No. 10011F, operating as the 09:55 hrs local service bound for Hamamatsucho, on Track No. 2 at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
Track No. 1 at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station shortly before the 09:58 hrs "Haneda Express" service bound for Hamamatsucho arrived at the station
After spending close to 20 minutes of anticipated waiting across Tracks No. 1 and 2, a 6-car Tokyo Monorail 1000 series EMU Set No. 1007F directly arrived at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station by 09:54 hrs on Track No. 1. The six-car train had only arrived from Hamamatsucho as a local train service bound for Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) earlier on, and was to become the 09:58 hrs Haneda Express rail service bound for Hamamatsucho. As soon as all of the doors were automatically opened, I promptly boarded the train via Car No. 1 (1007) and took an observation seat by the driver's cab.
Once the clock struck exactly 09:58 hrs sharp, all the main train doors were closed, and the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Express train service pulled out of Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station for the coming routine morning trip of only 19 minutes to the really modern and colossal hustle and bustle of the Hamamatsucho district situated in the very heart of downtown Minato-ku, Tokyo. I was then on my way for a routine regional morning monorail trip duration of 19 minutes to the really modern hustle and bustle of the local Hamamatsucho district located in downtown Minato-ku, Tokyo.
The 6-car Tokyo Monorail 1000 series EMU Set No. 1007F, now operating as the 09:58 hrs "Haneda Express" service bound for Hamamatsucho, on Track No. 1 at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
The interior of Car No. 1 (1007) on board the 6-car Tokyo Monorail 1000 series EMU Set No. 1007F, operating as the 09:58 hrs "Haneda Express" service bound for Hamamatsucho, during the boarding process on Track No. 1 at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
The route guidance information panel above the train doors on board Car No. 1 (1007) of the 6-car Tokyo Monorail 1000 series EMU Set No. 1007F, operating as the 09:58 hrs "Haneda Express" service bound for Hamamatsucho, during the boarding process on Track No. 1 at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
Awaiting departure from Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
After a routine regional morning commuter rush journey duration of only 19 minutes from Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) situated close to the surrounding waters of Tokyo Bay in the main suburban outskirt areas of Ota-ku, Tokyo, I eventually arrived at the Hamamatsucho terminal station at around 10:17 hrs. Checking to ensure that I did not leave anything behind, I disembarked from the train and took the closest elevator down to the main Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line transit concourse before safely making my way to the JR Line interchange ticketing gates.
Securely tapping my Suica smart card at one of the automatic major JR Line interchange ticket gates, I went to check the departure timing for the next major Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line local train bound for Isogo. According to the railroad departure information panels, the next Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line local train service bound for Isogo would depart by precisely 10:34 hrs from Track No. 4. With that, I safely took a nearby elevator down to Tracks No. 3 and 4 in preparation for the next main sector of the morning railway journey to Yokohama, thus reaching the platforms safely at 10:25 hrs.
Hamamatsucho Station (Japanese: 浜松町駅; Traditional Chinese: 濱松町車站; Simplified Chinese: 滨松町车站) is a large main interchange railway terminal complex in the central Hamamatsucho district between 3-1 Kaigan 1-chome and 4-12 Hamamatsucho 2-chome in Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan. Operated by both East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and Tokyo Monorail Co., Ltd., it mainly serves the Hamamatsucho district and is one of the 13 main railroad stations to feature cross-platform interchange services between the Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line and Yamanote Line. The railroad station also serves as the northern railway terminus for the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line, with the main railroad station directly connected to Daimon Station served by the Toei Asakusa Line and Toei Oedo Line.
The station was opened for service on 16 December 1909 as an intermediate station along both the Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line and Yamanote Line, with cross-platform interchange provided between both the urban lines. From 17 September 1964, it eventually became the northern terminal station for the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line, with the monorail having an elevated bay platform two levels above the two JR Line island platforms. The station was also connected to the original Tokyo World Trade Center building until the building was closed down on 30 June 2021 and demolished in mid-2021 for redevelopment purposes.
The 6-car Tokyo Monorail 1000 series EMU Set No. 1007F, now operating as the 10:20 hrs "Haneda Express" service bound for Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport), at Hamamatsucho Station
The Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line arrival platform at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
The 6-car Tokyo Monorail 1000 series EMU Set No. 1007F, operating as the 10:20 hrs "Haneda Express" service bound for Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport), departing Hamamatsucho Station
Gazing out at the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line tracks from the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line arrival platform at Hamamatsucho Station on a bright and clear summer's morning
A 6-car Tokyo Monorail 10000 series EMU Set No. 10011F, which would operate as the 10:25 hrs local service bound for Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport), approaching Hamamatsucho Station
One additional view of the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line arrival platform at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
The Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line transit concourse at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
The escalators in the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line transit concourse leading up to the platform level at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
Approaching the JR Line interchange ticketing gates in the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line transit concourse at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
Walking through the passageway leading to the main JR Line interchange transit concourse at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
Walking through the main JR Line interchange transit concourse at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
Approaching the elevator connecting to Tracks No. 3 and 4 in the JR Line interchange transit concourse at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
Finally arriving at Tracks No. 3 and 4 at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
The overall view of the JR Line station platforms at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
Overlooking the Tokaido Main Line & Tokaido Shinkansen tracks from Track No. 4 at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
A 10-car E233 series EMU, operating as the 10:29 hrs Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line local service bound for Ofuna, arriving at Hamamatsucho Station on Track No. 4
Track No. 4 serving the Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line trains bound for Shinagawa, Yokohama and Ofuna at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
Track No. 3 serving the Yamanote Line Outer Loop trains bound for Shinagawa, Osaki and Shibuya at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
Track No. 4 at Hamamatsucho Station shortly before the 10:34 hrs Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line local service bound for Isogo arrived at the station
After spending approximately 10 minutes of anticipated waiting on Tracks No. 3 and 4, a 10-car E233 series EMU, currently operating as the 10:34 hrs Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line local service bound for Isogo, finally arrived at Hamamatsucho Station at exactly 10:34 hrs sharp on Track No. 4. Once the train doors were opened, I boarded the train via Car No. 6 and secured an empty seat for the major morning commuter journey of approximately 35 minutes to the hustle and bustle of the satellite port city of Yokohama.
Soon enough, in just a few seconds, all the train doors were closed, and the Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line local train service pulled out of Hamamatsucho Station for the remainder of its routine main early morning commuter rush journey duration of just 1 hour 49 minutes from Omiya to Isogo via Ueno. I was then on my way for a morning commuter railroad journey duration of just 35 minutes to the modern and colossal hustle and bustle of the nearby major satellite port city of Yokohama.
A 10-car E233 series EMU, operating as the 10:34 hrs Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line local service bound for Isogo, arriving at Hamamatsucho Station on Track No. 4
The interior of Car No. 6 on board the 10-car E233 series EMU, operating as the 10:34 hrs Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line local service bound for Isogo, during the boarding process on Track No. 4 at Hamamatsucho Station
Finally departing Hamamatsucho Station
Bypassing several downtown office infrastructure in Shiba 4-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo, between Hamamatsucho and Tamachi Stations
The route guidance information panel above the train doors on board Car No. 6 of the 10-car E233 series EMU, operating as the 10:34 hrs Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line local service bound for Isogo, indicating that the next station is Tamachi
Making a brief stop at Tamachi Station
Bypassing several infrastructure near the northbound Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line flyover track in Takanawa 2-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo, between Tamachi and Takanawa Gateway Stations
Making a brief stop at Takanawa Gateway Station
Overlooking several downtown office infrastructure in Takanawa 3-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo, between Takanawa Gateway and Shinagawa Stations
Making a brief stop at Shinagawa Station
Overlooking the Keikyu Main Line flyover viaduct in Takanawa 4-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo, shortly after departing Shinagawa Station
Diverging away from the Yamanote Line tracks in Takanawa 4-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo, between Shinagawa and Oimachi Stations
Bypassing the JR Tokyo General Rolling Stock Center in Hiromachi 2-chome, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, between Shinagawa and Oimachi Stations
Making a brief stop at Oimachi Station
Bypassing some residential housing estates in Oi 6-chome, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, between Oimachi and Omori Stations
Making a brief stop at Omori Station
Bypassing several residential housing estates in Sanno 3-chome, Ota-ku, Tokyo, between Omori and Kamata Stations
Bypassing some residential housing apartments in Nishi-kamata 5-chome, Ota-ku, Tokyo, as the train approaches Kamata Station
Making a brief stop at Kamata Station
Bypassing some residential housing apartments in Nishi-kamata 7-chome, Ota-ku, Tokyo, shortly after departing Kamata Station
Bypassing some residential housing estates in Nishi-rokugo 1-chome, Ota-ku, Tokyo, between Kamata and Kawasaki Stations
Bypassing some residential housing apartments near the Tama River in Nishi-rokugo 4-chome, Ota-ku, Tokyo, between Kamata and Kawasaki Stations
Bypassing a large recreational field near the Tama River in Nishi-rokugo 4-chome, Ota-ku, Tokyo, between Kamata and Kawasaki Stations
Crossing the Tama River from Nishi-rokugo 4-chome, Ota-ku, Tokyo, to Horikawa-cho, Saiwai-ku, Kawasaki, between Kamata and Kawasaki Stations
Overlooking the Lazona Kawasaki Plaza (ラゾーナ川崎プラザ) shopping mall in Horikawa-cho, Saiwai-ku, Kawasaki, as the train approaches Kawasaki Station
Making a brief stop at Kawasaki Station
Bypassing the JR Kawasaki Tower Commercial building located in Omiya-cho, Saiwai-ku, Kawasaki, shortly after departing Kawasaki Station
Diverging away from the Nambu Line tracks in Tsutsumine, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, shortly after departing Kawasaki Station
Bypassing some residential housing apartments in Motomiya 1-chome, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, between Kawasaki and Tsurumi Stations
Crossing the Tsurumi River from Motomiya 1-chome, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, to Tsukuno-cho, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, between Kawasaki and Tsurumi Stations
Bypassing some residential housing estates in Tsukuno-cho, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, as the train approaches Tsurumi Station
Making a brief stop at Tsurumi Station
Traveling parallel to the Tsurumi Line tracks in Tsurumi 1-chome, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, between Tsurumi and Shin-koyasu Stations
Bypassing some residential housing estates in Kishiya 1-chome, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, between Tsurumi and Shin-koyasu Stations
Crossing the flyover bridge above the Tokaido Main Line tracks past some residential housing estates in Kishiya 1-chome, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, between Tsurumi and Shin-koyasu Stations
Bypassing some hillside residential housing estates in Shin-koyasu 1-chome, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama, between Tsurumi and Shin-koyasu Stations
Making a brief stop at Shin-koyasu Station
Bypassing some residential housing estates in Shin-koyasu 1-chome, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama, shortly after departing Shin-koyasu Station
The route guidance information panel above the train doors on board Car No. 6 of the 10-car E233 series EMU, operating as the 10:34 hrs Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line local service bound for Isogo, indicating that the next station is Higashi-kanagawa
Bypassing some residential housing estates in Urashimaoka, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama, between Shin-koyasu and Higashi-kanagawa Stations
Overlooking some residential housing apartments in Tomiya-cho, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama, as the train approaches Higashi-kanagawa Station
Making a brief stop at Higashi-kanagawa Station
Bypassing some residential housing estates in Tammachi 1-chome, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama, between Higashi-kanagawa and Yokohama Stations
Overlooking several downtown office infrastructure in Tsuruya 1-chome, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, as the train approaches Yokohama Station
Overlooking several downtown office infrastructure in Minami-saiwai 1-chome, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, as the train approaches Yokohama Station
Finally arriving at Yokohama Station
After a routine morning commuter trip of approximately 34 minutes from the colossal hustle and bustle of the Hamamatsucho district in downtown Minato-ku, Tokyo, I arrived at Yokohama Station by precisely 11:09 hrs on Track No. 3. Checking to ensure that I did not leave any of my belongings behind on board, I disembarked from the ten-car train and took a nearby elevator down to the central JR Line interchange transit concourse lobby prior to securely tapping my Suica smart card at one of the automated JR Line ticketing gates.
Given the fact that I would have to stay hydrated during the course of this solo overseas vacation in Yokohama, I then decided to search for a nearby convenience store to purchase some cold beverages. With that, I promptly made a short left turn to the East Entrance of the railway station, where I soon arrived at a small convenience store, known as NewDays (Yokohama Chuo) (NewDays 横浜中央). While I was shopping there, I purchased up to three larger one-liter bottles of water and three standard-sized bottles of Darjeeling tea without sugar made by Kirin.
Upon purchasing my beverages for the coming stay in Yokohama, the clock was finally showing 11:15 hrs. Since I was officially ready to proceed to the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama, I walked through the central JR Line ticketing concourse lobby in the direction leading to the West Entrance of the major station complex. Heading into the NEWoMan Department Store Yokohama, I quickly took the escalator up to the second floor and walked through the local open-air Hama Rail Walk in the direction leading to The Yokohama Front and the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama. The major walk connecting directly to the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama took not more than approximately 15 minutes.
Yokohama Station (Japanese: 横浜駅; Malay: Stesen Yokohama; Traditional Chinese: 橫濱車站; Simplified Chinese: 横滨车站) is a major intercity railway station on the central intersection between 16-1 Takashima 2-chome & 1-1 Minami-saiwai 1-chome in Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan. It is the central railway station for the modern satellite port city of Yokohama, the fifth-busiest railway station complex in the world and the busiest intercity railroad terminal in Kanagawa Prefecture, with approximately 760 million passengers passing through the main station complex in 2013. Apart from catering to the Tokaido Main Line, Shonan-Shinjuku Line, Yokohama Line, Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line and Yokosuka Line, the railroad terminal also serves the Sagami Railway Main Line, Minatomirai Line, Keikyu Main Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line and Yokohama Municipal Subway Blue Line.
The railway station was opened on 15 August 1915 after the original station was renamed as Sakuragicho Station, which had been serving the major city since 12 June 1872. Initially serving the JR Lines, the railroad station became an interchange railroad terminal for the Tokyu Toyoko Line on 18 May 1928 and moved to its current station location on 15 October 1928 after the 1923 Great Kanto earthquake. From 27 December 1933, the local railroad station complex became an interchange station for the Sotetsu Main Line, with the Yokohama Municipal Subway Blue Line securely serving the railroad station complex on 4 September 1976.
From 1 February 2004, with the official railway closure of the Tokyu Toyoko Line section between Yokohama and Sakuragicho, the local railway station became an interchange railway station with the Minatomirai Line, offering direct revenue train services both to and from the Tokyu Toyoko Line using new major underground platforms. The station houses several department stores in its complex, such as the Yodobashi Camera Multimedia Yokohama electronics store and the Yokohama Takashimaya Department Store.
Tracks No. 3 and 4 serving the Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line and Yokohama Line trains at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Walking through the central JR Line interchange transit concourse at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Approaching the JR Line ticketing gates in the central JR Line interchange transit concourse at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Walking through the central JR Line ticketing concourse located between the East Entrance and West Entrance at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Stopping at a local convenience store in the central JR Line ticketing concourse located between the East Entrance and West Entrance at Yokohama Station, known as NewDays (Yokohama Chuo) (NewDays 横浜中央), to purchase some beverages during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Walking through central JR Line ticketing concourse in the direction leading to the West Entrance at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Approaching the escalators and staircases connecting to the West Entrance at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Walking through the entrance plaza near the West Entrance at Yokohama Station during the earlyafternoon off-peak hours
Approaching the escalators connecting to the second floor from the first floor of the NEWoMan Department Store Yokohama (NEWoMan横浜) on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
Approaching the exit door connecting to the overhead pedestrian Hama Rail Walk on the second floor of the NEWoMan Department Store Yokohama (NEWoMan横浜) on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
Walking through the overhead pedestrian Hama Rail Walk in the direction leading to The Yokohama Front and the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
Getting closer to The Yokohama Front and the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama located in Tsuruya-cho 1-chome, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, from the overhead pedestrian Hama Rail Walk on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
Gazing up at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama located in Tsuruya-cho 1-chome, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, from the overhead pedestrian Hama Rail Walk on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
The exterior view of The Yokohama Front located in Tsuruya-cho 1-chome, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, from the overhead pedestrian Hama Rail Walk on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
Approaching the entrance doors leading to the main entrance at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
Finally arriving at the main entrance to the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on bright and clear summer's early afternoon
After walking through the Hama Rail Walk for not more than approximately 15 minutes from the North West Entrance at Yokohama Station, I eventually arrived at the main entrance to the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama by exactly 11:30 hrs. Entering the hotel lobby, I quickly went over to the hotel's staffed reception counter and informed a receptionist on duty that I had an upcoming 10-day stay at the property during this major summer vacation in eastern Japan. I also requested for an early hotel check-in service since I was still feeling quite tired from the long overnight flight from Singapore.
The hotel receptionist informed me that an early check-in service would be available at 12:00 hrs sharp for a fee of ¥3,000 (S$24.05) and invited me to have some afternoon tea at The City Bakery in the major hotel lobby itself. Thanking the staff receptionist, I headed to The City Bakery, where I had a single glass of iced Earl Grey Tea with milk and a chocolate chip cookie. As soon as my refreshments were finished, I was informed that an early main hotel check-in service was available at 11:50 hrs. Showing all my necessary documents for verification purposes, I directly obtained my assigned hotel room key at 11:55 hrs.
The check-in receptionist then informed that I would be staying in Room No. 1111 located on the 11th floor for the duration of my mid-summer vacation in Yokohama, with a regular check-out time at 11:00 hrs on Sunday (7 June). With that moment, I quickly thanked the lady check-in staff receptionist for her efficient services and proceeded to the guest elevator lobby with all my belongings prior to securely catching a nearby elevator up to the 11th floor itself. Walking through the hotel's 11th floor guest passageway, I arrived at my allocated Room No. 1111 at around 12:00 hrs.
My residential double hotel room contained a toilet cubicle adjacent to the entrance, together with a small kitchenette area and an all-in-one washing and drying machine. There was even a bathroom equipped with one single bath cubicle and a sink, together with a mini living area and a queen-sized bed. From my previous solo getaway journeys to Japan, I knew that having an all-in-one washing and drying machine would be a huge advantage for me since I could wash my used clothes daily after returning from my major express railway day trips.
Placing my bulkier baggage close to the television on the floor, I promptly sorted out my daily attire for the coming days ahead prior to washing my used clothes and having a warm shower to reduce the risks of contracting COVID-19 in Japan. Upon washing up, I quickly changed into a new set of clothes and got my personal electronic gadgets to be charged up prior to having a well-earned afternoon rest in my assigned major hotel Room No. 1111 on the 11th floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama.
The main hotel check-in reception area located close to the main entrance on the fourth floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon shortly after I had arrived
Stopping at The City Bakery in the main hotel lobby located on the fourth floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
Having a chocolate chip cookie and a glass of iced Earl Grey Tea with milk from The City Bakery in the main hotel check-in reception area located close to the main entrance on the fourth floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama while waiting for an early hotel check-in on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
The overall view of the main hotel lobby located on the fourth floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
Approaching the hotel guest elevator lobby in the main hotel lobby located on the fourth floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
Finally arriving at my assigned Room No. 1111 located on the 11th floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama
Overlooking several downtown infrastructure in Tsuruya 1-chome, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, from my assigned Room No. 1111 located on the 11th floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon shortly after I had arrived
The all-in-one washing and drying machine and small kitchenette area in my assigned Room No. 1111 located on the 11th floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
The toilet cubicle area in my assigned Room No. 1111 located on the 11th floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
The bathroom area in my assigned Room No. 1111 located on the 11th floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
One additional view of my assigned Room No. 4810 located on the 48th floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
Overlooking more downtown infrastructure in Tsuruya 1-chome, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, from my assigned Room No. 1111 located on the 11th floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's early afternoon
One additional view of my assigned Room No. 1111 located on the 11th floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama shortly before I went out for some shopping and dining
After spending the first part of the afternoon unpacking all of my baggage and resting in my assigned Room No. 1111 located on the 11th floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama, the local clock was securely showing 14:10 hrs. Since I was in the mood to go out amidst the good weather that afternoon, I decided to head to the main Ikebukuro district situated in the center of downtown Toshima-ku, Tokyo, for some shopping and dining. To get there, I promptly decided to take the Tokyu Toyoko Line, with through service to Ikebukuro available via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line.
Without wasting anymore time, I quickly grabbed all my required belongings and departed my assigned Room No. 1111 before catching an elevator down to the main hotel lobby on the fourth floor, thus reaching safely by 14:15 hrs. Turning to my left, I securely exited the hotel and took two sets of escalators down to the Hama Rail Walk prior to changing to a nearby elevator down to the North West Entrance of Yokohama Station. Once I had safely changed to an additional escalator down, I finally arrived at the main Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at 14:20 hrs.
At the same time, I promptly went to check the departure time for the next Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line F-Liner Limited Express train bound for Shinrin-koen via Shibuya, the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line & Tobu Tojo Line. According to the departure information board, the next Minatomirai Line and Tokyu Toyoko Line F-Liner Limited Express train service bound for Shinrin-koen via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line & Tobu Tojo Line would depart at 14:42 hrs from Track No. 2. With that moment, I tapped my Suica smart card and caught a nearby elevator down to the railroad platforms in preparation for the trip to Ikebukuro, thus reaching safely at 14:25 hrs.
Walking through the main hotel lobby located on the fourth floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
Walking through the main hotel check-in reception area located close to the main entrance on the fourth floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
Walking through the fourth floor passageway leading to The Yokohama Front and the overhead pedestrian Hama Rail Walk from the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
Approaching the escalators connecting down to the overhead pedestrian Hama Rail Walk from the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
Walking through the overhead pedestrian Hama Rail Walk in the direction leading to Yokohama Station on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
Approaching the elevator connecting to the North West Entrance at Yokohama Station on the overhead pedestrian Hama Rail Walk on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
Bypassing the JR Line ticketing concourse located near the North West Entrance at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
About to take an additional set of escalators down to the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse from the JR Line ticketing concourse located near the North West Entrance at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Finally arriving at the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
About to pass through the automated ticketing gates in the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
The Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line transit concourse leading down to the station platforms at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Finally arriving at the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line station platforms at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Track No. 2 serving the Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line trains bound for Shibuya, Wakoshi, Shinrin-koen and Shakujii-koen via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tobu Tojo Line & Seibu Lines at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
A 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, painted in the Tokaido & Sanyo Shinkansen white with blue special livery and operating as the 14:27 hrs Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "F-Liner Express" service bound for Kotesashi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line & Seibu Lines, arriving at Yokohama Station on Track No. 2
Track No. 1 serving the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line trains bound for Motomachi-chukagai at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
An 8-car Tokyu 5050 series EMU, operating as the 14:27 hrs Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line local service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, arriving at Yokohama Station on Track No. 1
An 8-car Tokyu 5050 series EMU, operating as the 14:29 hrs Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line local service bound for Ikebukuro via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, arriving at Yokohama Station on Track No. 2
The overhead departure information panel for the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line trains departing from Track No. 1 at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
A 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 14:30 hrs Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, arriving at Yokohama Station on Track No. 1
An 8-car Tokyu 5050 series EMU, operating as the 14:34 hrs Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "Express" service bound for Shibuya, arriving at Yokohama Station on Track No. 2
An 8-car Tokyu 5050 series EMU, operating as the 14:35 hrs Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line local service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, arriving at Yokohama Station on Track No. 1
The overhead departure information panel for the Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line trains departing from Track No. 2 at Yokohama Station indicating that the next Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "F-Liner Limited Express" train bound for Shinrin-koen via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line & Tobu Tojo Line would depart at 14:42 hrs
The overall view of the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line station platforms at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
An 8-car Tokyu 5050 series EMU, operating as the 14:37 hrs Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line local service bound for Shibuya, arriving at Yokohama Station on Track No. 2
Track No. 2 at Yokohama Station shortly before the 14:42 hrs Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "F-Liner Limited Express" service bound for Shinrin-koen via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line & Tobu Tojo Line arrived at the station
After spending barely 15 minutes of anticipated waiting around the railway station platform, a 10-car Tokyo Metro 10000 series EMU, now operating as the 14:42 hrs Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line F-Liner Limited Express service bound for Shinrin-koen via both the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line & Tobu Tojo Line, arrived at Yokohama Station at 14:39 hrs sharp on Track No. 1. Once the train doors were automatically opened, I promptly boarded the train through Car No. 4 and settled down into a vacant seat for the coming mid-afternoon commuter trip duration of 41 minutes to the busy and lively hustle and bustle of the Ikebukuro district in downtown Toshima-ku, Tokyo.
The train service would operate as an F-Liner Express service along the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line after departing Shibuya Station. As soon as the clock struck precisely 14:42 hrs sharp, all the doors were automatically closed, and the Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line F-Liner Limited Express train then pulled out of Yokohama Station for the rest of its mid-afternoon commuter journey of 1 hour 47 minutes from Motomachi-chukagai to Shinrin-koen via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line & Tobu Tojo Line. I was safely en route for a regional afternoon commuter journey duration of 41 minutes to the lively hustle and bustle of the Ikebukuro district in downtown Toshima-ku, Tokyo.
The interior of Car No. 3 of the 10-car Tokyo Metro 10000 series EMU, operating as the 14:42 hrs Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "F-Liner Limited Express" service bound for Shinrin-koen via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line & Tobu Tojo Line, during the boarding process on Track No. 2 at Yokohama Station
The route guidance information panel above the train doors on board Car No. 3 of the 10-car Tokyo Metro 10000 series EMU, operating as the 14:42 hrs Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "F-Liner Limited Express" service bound for Shinrin-koen via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line & Tobu Tojo Line, during the boarding process on Track No. 2 at Yokohama Station
After a routine mid-afternoon commuter trip of approximately 41 minutes from the modern major satellite port city of Yokohama, I finally arrived at Ikebukuro Station at 15:23 hrs sharp on Track No. 6. Checking to see that I had not left anything behind on board, I then disembarked from the train and took the escalator up to the core Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line transit concourse before tapping my Suica smart card at the main ticketing gates closer to the Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade and making my way to the East Entrance area of the station, thus arriving at 15:35 hrs.
Given that I was in the mood for some shopping that afternoon, I decided to search for a major shopping center in the eastern area of Ikebukuro, known as Sunshine City (サンシャインシティ), as my first major port of call. Without wasting anymore time, I walked through the busy and lively major shopping streets of Minami-ikebukuro and Higashi-ikebukuro in the direction leading up to Sunshine City (サンシャインシティ). The entire major pedestrian street walk connecting from Ikebukuro Station over to Sunshine City (サンシャインシティ) took not more than approximately five minutes that afternoon.
Ikebukuro Station (Japanese: 池袋駅; Traditional Chinese: 池袋車站; Simplified Chinese: 池袋车站; Korean: 이케부쿠로역) is a major interchange railway station complex in the heart of the Ikebukuro district in Toshima-ku, Tokyo, Japan. It is currently the world's second-busiest main railway terminal station complex after Shinjuku Station and the busiest railroad terminal complex operated by Tobu Railway, Seibu Railway & Tokyo Metro, with at least approximately 2.71 million passengers passing through the complex in 2007. The railroad station mostly serves commuters from Saitama Prefecture and other major suburban areas to the northwest of central Tokyo, also serving as an interchange point for the Saikyo Line, Shonan-Shinjuku Line and Yamanote Line.
The station was opened from 1 April 1903 as an intermediate station located along the Yamanote Line, with the Tobu Tojo Line and Seibu Ikebukuro Line serving the main interchange station complex from 1 May 1914 and 15 April 1915 respectively. It then became the eastern railway terminus for the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line from 20 January 1954, with the Yurakucho Line also serving the station from 30 October 1974. Major train services on the Saikyo Line and Shonan-Shinjuku Line also began to serve the railroad station from 30 September 1985 and 1 December 2001 respectively.
From 14 June 2008, the main station became an interchange station with the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, with through-running revenue services to and from the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line commencing from 16 March 2013. Several major department stores, such as Parco, the Seibu Department Store, Tobu Department Store and Bic Camera, are also within the vicinity of the station complex. The station also served as a terminus for Narita Express limited express rail services to and from Narita International Airport, though these were formally discontinued from 12 March 2022 due to reduced travel demand caused by the global outbreak of COVID-19.
The Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line station platforms at Ikebukuro Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Track No. 6 serving the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line trains bound for Wakoshi, Shinrin-koen and Shakujii-koen via the Tobu Tojo Line & Seibu Lines at Ikebukuro Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
The Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line transit concourse leading down to the station platforms at Ikebukuro Station in the Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
The Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line ticketing concourse at Ikebukuro Station in the Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Bypassing the automated ticket vending machines in the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line ticketing concourse at Ikebukuro Station in the Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Bypassing some retail outlet shops in the Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Walking through the Tobu Tojo Line ticketing concourse at Ikebukuro Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Walking through the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line ticketing concourse at Ikebukuro Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Bypassing the ticketing gates in the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line ticketing concourse at Ikebukuro Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Walking through the unpaid passageway leading to Sunshine City (サンシャインシティ) via Entrance No. 35 near the East Entrance at Ikebukuro Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Approaching the escalators leading to Sunshine City (サンシャインシティ) via Entrance No. 35 near the East Entrance at Ikebukuro Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Walking along the streets of Higashi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, near the East Entrance at Ikebukuro Station on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
About to make a left turn towards Sunshine 60 Street located along Higashi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
Walking through the pedestrian shopping streets of Sunshine 60 Street near Zetteria (Ikebukuro East Entrance Branch) (ゼッテリア 池袋東口店) in Higashi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
Walking through the pedestrian shopping streets of Sunshine 60 Street near Uniqlo (Ikebukuro Sunshine 60 Street Branch) (ユニクロ 池袋サンシャイン60通り店) in Higashi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
Finally approaching Sunshine City (サンシャインシティ) via Nitori (Ikebukuro Sunshine 60 Street Branch) (ニトリ 池袋サンシャイン60通り店) located along Sunshine 60 Street in Higashi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
After walking through the bustling pedestrian and shopping streets of both Minami-ikebukuro and Higashi-ikebukuro for not more than approximately five minutes from the East Entrance at Ikebukuro Station, I finally arrived at Sunshine City (サンシャインシティ) at precisely 15:40 hrs sharp. Entering the mall through Nitori (Ikebukuro Sunshine 60 Street Branch) (ニトリ 池袋サンシャイン60通り店), I promptly caught the closest escalator down to the first basement level and passed through a long shopping mall passageway prior to directly looking through the various retail outlet stores available.
Soon enough, I finally stumbled upon a popular Studio Ghibli merchandise outlet store, known as Donguri Republic (Ghibli Store) (Ikebukuro Branch) (ジブリがいっぱい どんぐり共和国 池袋店), at 15:50 hrs. Entering the outlet store, I slowly spent the next 35 minutes or so looking through the various merchandise available before making my decision on what Ghibli items to purchase as home ornaments. While shopping at Donguri Republic (Ghibli Store) (Ikebukuro Branch) (ジブリがいっぱい どんぐり共和国 池袋店) in the first basement level, I directly purchased up to three Howl's Moving Castle items, which consisted of a black door hook and two glass cups.
Upon finishing my mass Studio Ghibli-themed shopping at Donguri Republic (Ghibli Store) (Ikebukuro Branch) (ジブリがいっぱい どんぐり共和国 池袋店) that afternoon, the clock was now showing 16:25 hrs. Since I was beginning to feel quite hungry, I wisely decided to search for a restaurant around the Ikebukuro district for an early dinner. With that instant, I securely departed Sunshine City at 16:35 hrs and made my way to the west side of Ikebukuro, knowing that there would be some good restaurants there. I also made an additional electronics stop at Bic Camera (Ikebukuro West Entrance Branch) (ビックカメラ 池袋西口店) to purchase three major 128GB SD memory cards along the way.
Approaching the escalators leading down to the first basement level at Sunshine City on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
Entering the first phase of the first basement level passageway connecting to Sunshine City on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
Walking through the second phase of the first basement level passageway connecting to the first basement level entrance at Sunshine City on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
Approaching the first basement level entrance connecting to the first basement level retail outlet stores at Sunshine City on a bright and clear summer's mid-afternoon
Bypassing some retail outlet stores located in the first basement level at Sunshine City during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Stopping over at Donguri Republic (Ghibli Store) (Ikebukuro Branch) (ジブリがいっぱい どんぐり共和国 池袋店) located in the first basement level at Sunshine City
Heading back to the underground passageway connecting to Ikebukuro Station via Sunshine 60 Street from the first basement level at Sunshine City during the late afternoon rush hours
Walking through the underground passageway connecting to Ikebukuro Station via Sunshine 60 Street from the first basement level at Sunshine City during the late afternoon rush hours
Approaching the escalators connecting to Ikebukuro Station via Sunshine 60 Street from the first basement level at Sunshine City during the late afternoon rush hours
The main entrance to Sunshine City (サンシャインシティ) via Nitori (Ikebukuro Sunshine 60 Street Branch) (ニトリ 池袋サンシャイン60通り店) located along Sunshine 60 Street in Higashi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's late afternoon
Walking through the pedestrian shopping streets of Sunshine 60 Street in the direction leading to Ikebukuro Station in Higashi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's late afternoon
About to make a right turn towards Ikebukuro Station from Higashi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's late afternoon
Walking along the streets of Higashi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, towards the East Entrance at Ikebukuro Station on a bright and clear summer's late afternoon
Approaching Entrance No. 35 near the East Entrance at Ikebukuro Station along Higashi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's late afternoon
Walking through the JR Line ticketing concourse on the way to the West Entrance at Ikebukuro Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Bypassing the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line ticketing gates on the way to the West Entrance at Ikebukuro Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Approaching the escalator connecting to the West Entrance at Ikebukuro Station via the Tobu Department Store (Ikebukuro Branch) (東武百貨店 池袋店) during the late afternoon rush hours
The exterior view of the West Entrance at Ikebukuro Station on a bright and clear summer's late afternoon
About to cross the busy roads of Ikebukuro towards Nishi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear late summer's afternoon shortly after exiting Ikebukuro Station
Walking along the sidewalks of Nishi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's late afternoon
Stopping over at Bic Camera (Ikebukuro West Entrance Branch) (ビックカメラ 池袋西口店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's late afternoon. This particular electronics department store was familiar to me as I had shopped here a few times before during most of my previous visits to Tokyo
Walking along the sidewalks of Nishi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's late afternoon shortly after departing Bic Camera (Ikebukuro West Entrance Branch) (ビックカメラ 池袋西口店)
About to cross the busy roads of Ikebukuro towards Ikebukuro 2-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, from Nishi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear late summer's afternoon
Walking along the sidewalks of Ikebukuro 2-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's late afternoon
About to make a left turn towards the streets of Rikkyo-dori in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, from Ikebukuro 2-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's late afternoon
Walking along the streets of Rikkyo-dori in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's late afternoon
Finally arriving at a popular local charcoal barbecue (焼肉; yakiniku) restaurant, known as Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo. This particular restaurant outlet was familiar to me as I had eaten dinner here several times before during most of my previous visits to Tokyo
After walking through the bustling pedestrian and shopping streets of both Higashi-ikebukuro and Minami-ikebukuro for not more than approximately 35 minutes from the local Sunshine City shopping center located in Higashi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, I finally arrived at a major charcoal barbecue (焼肉; yakiniku) restaurant outlet, known as Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店), at 17:10 hrs. This particular local charcoal barbecue restaurant outlet was quite familiar to me, having eaten dinner here several times before during my past visits to Tokyo.
Entering the restaurant, I immediately requested for a table for myself as I was already feeling rather hungry. A staff waitress kindly directed me to a vacant counter-style table and even provided me with an electronic tablet menu to make my reviews before eventually making my orders for dinner. Once I was ready to eat, I clicked on the popular barbecue meat, side dish and alcoholic beverage sections of the electronic tablet menu to place my orders for my upcoming local charcoal barbecue dinner.
For my core entrées, I would have a platter each of premium Japanese Black Wagyu Beef short ribs (黒毛和牛上カルビ), thickly sliced and salted premium beef tongue (上タン 塩), Miso Tare pork belly (豚カルビ 味噌だれ), Miso Tare pork jowl (ピートロ 味噌だれ), Miso Tare beef large intestines (牛ホルモン 味噌だれ) and a single medium-sized bowl of steamed white rice. At the same time, I would even have a platter of five-piece wrapping lettuce and a glass of red wine to accompany my upcoming charcoal barbecue dinner.
With my main orders recorded, the staff waiter went into the inner kitchen area and immediately brought out the portable charcoal pot and barbecue dining grill to my table. As my dinner orders were gradually brought to my counter table by the waiter, I ensured that everything was present before I started cooking my main barbecue meat dishes. Later that evening, I had a sumptuous and filling local main charcoal barbecue (焼肉; yakiniku) dinner meal at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店).
The interior view of Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, from my dining table shortly after I had settled down for dinner
The charcoal pot and barbecue dining grill set up in the middle of my dining table at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角池 袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The electronic tablet menu placed on my dining table at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Reviewing the beef tongue section of the electronic tablet menu at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Reviewing the first premium Japanese Black Wagyu beef sections of the electronic tablet menu at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Reviewing the second premium Japanese Black Wagyu beef section of the electronic tablet menu at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Reviewing the chicken and pork section of the electronic tablet menu at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Reviewing the beef organ meat section of the electronic tablet menu at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Reviewing the salad and wrapping lettuce section of the electronic tablet menu at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Reviewing the rice section of the electronic menu at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Reviewing the wine section of the electronic tablet menu at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
A glass of red wine to accompany my upcoming local charcoal barbecue (焼肉; yakiniku) dinner at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
A platter of Miso Tare pork belly (豚カルビ 味噌だれ) to be grilled on the charcoal barbecue grill later on at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
A platter of Miso Tare pork jowl (ピートロ 味噌だれ) to be grilled on the charcoal barbecue grill later on at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
A bowl of five-piece wrapping lettuce to be wrapped with my barbecued meats later on at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
A medium-sized bowl of steamed white rice to accompany my local charcoal barbecue (焼肉; yakiniku) dinner at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
A platter of Miso Tare beef large intestines (牛ホルモン 味噌だれ) to be grilled on the charcoal barbecue grill later on at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
A platter of premium Japanese Black Wagyu Beef short ribs (黒毛和牛上カルビ) to be grilled on the charcoal barbecue grill later on at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
A platter of thickly sliced and salted premium beef tongue (上タン 塩) to be grilled on the charcoal barbecue grill later on at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The overall view of my local charcoal barbecue (焼肉; yakiniku) dinner at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The two pieces of thickly sliced and salted premium beef tongue (上タン 塩) grilling on the charcoal barbecue grill at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The two pieces of thickly sliced and salted premium beef tongue (上タン 塩) in the final stages of grilling on the charcoal barbecue grill at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The two pieces of thickly sliced and salted premium beef tongue (上タン 塩) cut in half on the charcoal barbecue grill at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The pieces of Miso Tare pork belly (豚カルビ 味噌だれ) grilling on the charcoal barbecue grill at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The pieces of Miso Tare pork belly (豚カルビ 味噌だれ) in the final stages of grilling on the charcoal barbecue grill at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The pieces of Miso Tare beef large intestines (牛ホルモン 味噌だれ) grilling on the charcoal barbecue grill at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The pieces of Miso Tare beef large intestines (牛ホルモン 味噌だれ) in the final stages of grilling on the charcoal barbecue grill at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The charcoal pot equipped with a clean barbecue dining grill in preparation for my next three meat courses later on at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The pieces of Miso Tare pork jowl (ピートロ 味噌だれ) grilling on the portable charcoal barbecue grill at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The pieces of Miso Tare pork jowl (ピートロ 味噌だれ) in the final stages of grilling on the portable charcoal barbecue grill at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The pieces of premium Japanese Black Wagyu Beef short ribs (黒毛和牛上カルビ) grilling on the portable charcoal barbecue grill at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The pieces of premium Japanese Black Wagyu Beef short ribs (黒毛和牛上カルビ) in the final stages of grilling on the charcoal barbecue grill at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The interior view of Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, from my seat shortly after I had finished my local charcoal barbecue (焼肉; yakiniku) dinner
After having a sumptuous and filling core charcoal barbecue (焼肉; yakiniku) dinner at Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) in the central alleys of Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, the major clock was finally showing 18:15 hrs. Given that I was already feeling stuffed to the brim, I safely decided that there was nothing much left to do around Ikebukuro for the remainder of the evening other than to head back to the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama for a well-earned good night's rest.
With that moment, I instantly gathered my belongings and paid my dinner check before departing the restaurant at exactly 18:20 hrs in the direction leading to Ikebukuro Station. Soon enough, I eventually reached the main entrance to the major Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade by precisely 18:25 hrs. Heading to the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line ticketing gates, I tapped my Suica smart card at one of the automated Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line ticketing gates and checked the departure timing for the next direct Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line Commuter Express train bound for Motomachi-chukagai via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line.
According to the departure information screen in the transit concourse, the next Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line Commuter Express train service bound for Motomachi-chukagai via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line that I could catch would depart at 18:52 hrs sharp from Track No. 5. This was also to factor in the possibility of trains being crowded as it was already part of the main evening rush hours. With that moment, I immediately caught the closest escalator down to Tracks No. 5 and 6 in preparation for the evening return trip back to Yokohama, thus reaching the platforms by 18:30 hrs.
The main entrance to Gyu-Kaku (Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch) (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, as I begin to make my way back to Ikebukuro Station on a bright and clear summer's early evening
Walking along the streets of Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on the way back to Ikebukuro Station on a bright and clear summer's early evening
Walking along the streets of Ikebukuro 2-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on the way back to Ikebukuro Station on a bright and clear summer's early evening
Approaching the entrance to the Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade located along Ikebukuro 2-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a bright and clear summer's early evening
Finally approaching the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line ticketing concourse at Ikebukuro Station in the Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade during the early evening rush hours
Overlooking the automated ticketing machines in the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line ticketing concourse at Ikebukuro Station in the Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade during the early evening rush hours
About to pass through the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line ticketing gates at Ikebukuro Station in the Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade during the early evening rush hours
About to take the escalators down to the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line station platforms at Ikebukuro Station in the Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade during the early evening rush hours
Finally arriving at the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line station platforms at Ikebukuro Station during the early evening rush hours
The Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line station name plate across the railway tracks on Track No. 5 at Ikebukuro Station during the early evening rush hours
Track No. 5 serving the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line trains bound for Shibuya, Motomachi-chukagai and Shin-yokohama via the Tokyu Toyoko Line, Minatomirai Line and Tokyu Shin-yokohama Line at Ikebukuro Station during the early evening rush hours
A 10-car Tokyo Metro 10000 series EMU, operating as the 18:31 hrs Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Commuter Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, arriving at Ikebukuro Station on Track No. 5
A 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 18:37 hrs Tokyu Toyoko Line & Tokyu Shin-yokohama Line "Express" service bound for Shonandai via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line & Sotetsu Lines, arriving at Ikebukuro Station on Track No. 5. This train service would operate as an all-stops local service along the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line as far as Shibuya and along the Sotetsu Lines after departing Shin-yokohama
The overall view of the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line station platforms at Ikebukuro Station during the early evening rush hours
An 8-car Tokyo Metro 17000 series EMU, operating as the 18:42 hrs Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line local service bound for Motomachi-chukagai via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, arriving at Ikebukuro Station on Track No. 5
A 10-car Seibu 6000 series EMU, operating as the 18:46 hrs Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Commuter Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, arriving at Ikebukuro Station on Track No. 5
The departure information screen for Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line trains departing from Track No. 5 at Ikebukuro Station during the early evening rush hours indicating that the next Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Commuter Express" train bound for Motomachi-chukagai via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line would depart at 18:52 hrs, with the train service to operate as an all-stops local service along the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line as far as Shibuya
Track No. 5 at Ikebukuro Station shortly before the 18:52 hrs Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Commuter Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line arrived at the station
After spending approximately 20 minutes of anticipated waiting along the station platform, a 10-car Tokyo Metro 10000 series EMU, operating as the 18:52 hrs Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line Commuter Express service bound for Motomachi-chukagai via both the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line and Shibuya, soon arrived at Ikebukuro Station at 18:51 hrs sharp on Track No. 5. Once all of the doors were opened, I instantly boarded the train via Car No. 5 and secured a vacant seat for the routine regional early evening commuter rush trip of just 53 minutes to the modern and colossal satellite port city of Yokohama.
The train would securely operate as an all-stops local service along the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line as far as Shibuya. Once the major clock struck exactly 18:52 hrs sharp, all the train doors were automatically closed, and the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line Commuter Express train service soon pulled out of Ikebukuro Station for the rest of its regional early evening journey of approximately 1 hour 24 minutes from Wakoshi to Motomachi-chukagai via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line. I was thus en route for a routine regional early evening commuter journey timing of approximately 53 minutes to the modern and colossal satellite port city of Yokohama.
After a routine regional early evening commuter journey timing of only 53 minutes from the modern and colossal hustle and bustle of the Ikebukuro district located in the center of downtown Toshima-ku, Tokyo, I eventually arrived back at Yokohama Station at 19:45 hrs on Track No. 1. Checking to ensure that I did not leave anything behind, I promptly disembarked from the ten-car train and caught the nearest elevator up to the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line transit concourse prior to tapping my Suica smart card at one of the automated ticketing gates and taking two more sets of escalators up to the North West Entrance of the station complex.
Reaching the North West Entrance of the station by 19:50 hrs sharp, I quickly changed to another set of escalators connecting to the overhead pedestrian Hama Rail Walk before making a left turn in the direction connecting to The Yokohama Front and the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama. I eventually changed over to two additional sets of open-air escalators leading up to the major entrance to the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama situated on the fourth floor. The pedestrian walk connecting back to the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama took not more than approximately five minutes.
The Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line station platforms at Yokohama Station during the early evening rush hours
The Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line transit concourse at Yokohama Station during the early evening rush hours
Approaching the automated ticketing gates in the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line transit concourse at Yokohama Station during the early evening rush hours
The Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the early evening rush hours
Overlooking the JR Line ticketing concourse located near the North West Entrance at Yokohama Station during the early evening rush hours
The North West Entrance at Yokohama Station during the early evening rush hours
Approaching the escalators connecting to the overhead pedestrian Hama Rail Walk near the North West Entrance at Yokohama Station during the early evening rush hours
Walking through the overhead pedestrian Hama Rail Walk in the direction leading to The Yokohama Front and the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a clear summer's night
Gazing up at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama located in Tsuruya-cho 1-chome, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, from the overhead pedestrian Hama Rail Walk on a clear summer's night
Getting closer to The Yokohama Front located in Tsuruya-cho 1-chome, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, from the overhead pedestrian Hama Rail Walk on a clear summer's night
Approaching the entrance doors leading to the main entrance at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a clear summer's night
Finally arriving back at the main entrance to the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a clear summer's night
The overall view of the main hotel lobby located on the fourth floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a clear summer's night shortly after I had arrived back
Approaching the hotel guest elevator lobby in the main hotel lobby located on the fourth floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a clear summer's night
Finally arriving back at my assigned Room No. 1111 located on the 11th floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a clear summer's night
Overlooking several downtown infrastructure in Tsuruya 1-chome, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, from my assigned Room No. 1111 located on the 11th floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a clear summer's night shortly after I had arrived back
One additional view of my assigned Room No. 1111 located on the 11th floor at the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama on a clear summer's night shortly after I had arrived back
After walking through the Hama Rail Walk for not more than approximately five minutes from the North West Entrance area at Yokohama Station, I thus arrived at the main entrance to the Sotetsu Hotels The Splaisir Yokohama by exactly 19:55 hrs. Walking through the main hotel lobby on the fourth floor, I quickly headed to the guest elevator lobby and caught the closest elevator up to my assigned Room No. 1111 located on the 11th floor, thus arriving at my hotel room safely by around 20:00 hrs later that night.
Once I had stuffed all my used clothes in the all-in-one washing and drying machine to be washed overnight, I instantly went to have a shower before charging up my electronics for the night. Given that I would be going on a regional aviation spotting day trip to Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) the next day, I naturally knew that it would not be a good idea to sleep too late. Upon contacting my family to inform them that everything was going quite well, I soon turned in by 23:00 hrs for a well-earned good night's rest.
This officially brings the first central section of my solo 11-day mid-summer season vacation over to eastern Japan in celebration of my 31st birthday in May & June 2026 to a formal conclusion. As with all other existing journey trip reports featured on this blog spot, questions and/or comments will be more than welcome inside the comment boxes situated at the end of each report section. The remaining four sections of this mid-summer trip report will be posted once the best quality photos and videos have been selected for each of them. Please do be patient as extensive time and effort will be required to publish them effectively and thoroughly.
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