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 30th birthday in June 2025. This recent major mid-summer overseas getaway vacation report shall be divided into only five sections, for which, this will be 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 to Tokyo (Haneda) and the major railroad trip to the Oakwood Suites Yokohama in Naka-ku, Yokohama. Though I cannot allow any 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 spending the first half of the year of running major family errands with my parents, I decided that it was time to go for a well-earned major overseas trip over the month-long May & June school vacation. Looking through most famous overseas destinations, it was not that long before I directly narrowed down my choices of overseas destination, which was Japan. Having spent my first independent overseas trips to Japan making one major city my core hub of railway trips, I decided to make Yokohama my base again for this trip.
Though my parents found my choice to be rather boring with the exact same thing, they were nonetheless supportive of my main plans and gave me their blessings, directly knowing that I would never give up on my favorite activity of collecting airline mile points for overseas vacation trips. In preparation for my major vacation trip, I went into downtown Orchard Road to purchase my one-week Green-type Japan Rail Pass Exchange Voucher. Given that it would be more pricey to get portable Wi-Fi Internet routers even if booked early in advance, my parents helped me to get a two-week unrestricted cellular data roaming plan within Asia under my cell phone number for my use in Japan.
Having enjoyed my previous solo mass overseas getaway vacation to eastern Japan for my 29th birthday in June 2024, my family quickly knew that I was serious about celebrating my 30th birthday in eastern Japan. Furthermore, I had booked my flight and accommodations for this special age milestone at least six to seven months in advance, knowing that I could not get the price deals I wanted had I postponed the bookings to a later period. As Benjamin Franklin once said in a famous quote, "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail."
On the morning of Monday (2 June), I safely woke up by precisely 10.30 a.m. 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 that evening. My parents had kindly offered to take me to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 securely by seven o' clock, knowing well that we would have to take the early evening rush traffic into account later on. I also laid out all my baggage in the living room to ensure that we could load them into the trunk of the white family car effectively.
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 at 10.50 p.m. later that night, and then arrive at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) by 6.45 a.m. 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 independent overseas trip to Japan, I was glad to have chosen Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) as my default gateway to and from downtown Tokyo instead of Narita International Airport in the central suburban outskirts of Narita in Chiba Prefecture. Due to the close proximity of Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) to central Tokyo and many intermediate cities surrounding it (e.g., Yokohama), I promptly knew that it would be quite practical to come into central Tokyo via Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) whenever possible.
Furthermore, for the coming accommodation, I would stay at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama located in the heart of the local Minato Mirai 21 business district of Naka-ku, Yokohama. This major serviced property was familiar to me as I had previously stayed there during my first two solo major overseas getaway vacations up to eastern Japan. I would also spend the night at the Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport situated at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) before returning home to Singapore on the early morning of Friday (13 June).
Later that evening, the time had come for me to depart the house at around 6.55 p.m.. While my dad started up the white family car, I safely offered help to my housekeeper in placing my baggage into the rear trunk area while my mom accompanied my dad in the front seat area. Once all of my belongings were safely loaded into the rear car trunk, we eventually departed from the familiar surroundings of our house at precisely seven o' clock for an evening road trip of 25 minutes through both the Central Expressway and Pan Island Expressways to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3.
It was not that long until we finally reached the main departures and drop-off point situated just outside Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 at 7.25 p.m. sharp. While I safely went to collect a single baggage cart, my parents helped to unload all of my baggage from the back trunk area of the white private family car. After all my baggage had been loaded directly onto the baggage cart, my parents wished me a pleasant 11-day getaway voyage to eastern Japan and told me to contact them daily every few hours.
Once my parents had left me to commence my getaway trip, I went 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 at 7.30 p.m., 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 transnational 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 75 destinations across Asia, Africa, North America, Oceania and Europe using a major fleet comprising mostly of Airbus A350-900 XWBs, Airbus A380s, Boeing 777s and Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners for its wide-body fleet, with Boeing 737s and Boeing 737 MAXs for its narrow-body fleet. The company also plays a role as a local competitor on the Kangaroo Route that connects Australia with 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 10 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
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 7.35 p.m. sharp. The lady check-in staff agent eventually informed me that for tonight, Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) would depart by 10.50 p.m. sharp from Gate No. F54, which meant that I would have to head to Terminal 2 for my flight. Boarding time would commence at exactly 10.20 p.m., 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 7.40 p.m..
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)
Proceeding to the departure immigration checkpoints from the departures and check-in lobby at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Bypassing the "Miffy's Beach Birthday Party" 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
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
The departure flight information screens in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the early evening rush hours
Bypassing The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 Transit Area 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 Longchamp (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
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 7.45 p.m.. 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$3,315.70 in town for Japanese yen earlier and obtaining up to ¥368,000 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 ¥364,960 to ¥732,960. 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 8.15 p.m.. 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 TWG Tea bags for a good friend living and working in Tokyo. Once I had finished 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 8.40 p.m.. Entering the Business Class section of the lounge, I helped myself to some more refreshments and used my own electronic devices until it was time to proceed to Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 for my flight.
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 shortly after I had entered the lounge during the early evening rush hours
Stepping into the inner dining area 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
Walking through the inner dining area 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 hot food self-service refreshment counters in the inner dining area 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 area 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 2018 Le Château Loudenne, Médoc, French red wine at the self-service beverage and wine refreshment corner in the inner dining area 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 2018 Le Château Loudenne, Médoc, French red wine with a bowl of potato chips and a platter of har gow dim sum shrimp dumplings 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 area 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
A Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8, registered 9V-MBM, getting ready to be pushed back from Gate No. A9 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 in preparation for her coming routine evening flight over the South China Sea to the People's Republic of China (Mainland China) as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 818 bound for Chongqing
The overall view of the inner dining area 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 began to make my way down to the main transit area for some duty-free shopping during the evening rush hours
Bypassing the self-service hot beverage refreshment corner in the inner dining area 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 area 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
Walking through the passageway leading to 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
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
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
Bypassing Furla (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 Branch) located in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 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
A Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941 Regional, registered 9V-SHU, resting at Gate No. A1 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 after arriving from her long early afternoon return flight over the Indian Ocean and Java Sea from the Commonwealth of Australia as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 236 from Brisbane
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 A380-841, registered 9V-SKQ, ready to taxi along the main airport tarmac to her assigned airport runway after pushing back from Gate No. B2 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 221 bound for Sydney
Walking through the central concourse of the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the way to do 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 Gucci (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
Making a left turn towards the inner dining area 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 small miniature cakes at the self-service pastry refreshment corner in the inner dining area in the Business Class section of the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
About to help myself to a mug of hot cocoa at the self-service hot beverage corner in the inner dining area 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 of papadam crackers, chocolate cream puffs and miniature signature dark chocolate cakes with a glass of iced water and 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
The overall view of the inner dining area 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
Watching "Treasure Buddies" (2012) on my laptop in the Silver Kris Lounge located in the airport lounge mezzanine transit level at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3, where in this scene, two of the Golden Retriever Air Buddies, Budderball and MudBud, stop at a kebab stand at the local open-air market in Bastati, Egypt, to sample some kebab
A Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-312/ER, registered 9V-SWW, being serviced at Gate No. A10 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 227 bound for Melbourne. This particular aircraft was familiar to me as I had previously traveled on it once as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 638 from Singapore to Tokyo (Narita) in December 2015
One final view of the inner dining area 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. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
To: Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) (HND / RJTT), Tokyo, Japan
Aircraft: Boeing 777-312/ER
Registration No.: 9V-SWM (Painted in white Star Alliance special livery)
Class: Business Class
Seat No.: 17K
Date: Monday, 2 June 2025
After spending approximately 1 hour 45 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 9.30 p.m.. 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. F54 in Terminal 2. Proceeding over to Concourse A, I caught the nearest Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain bound for Concourse F in Terminal 2, with the main airport terminal journey to Gate No. F54 lasting approximately 15 minutes.
Soon enough, I reached the front entrance at the passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. F54 by 9.45 p.m., which was in time for passenger boarding for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) to commence in 20 minutes. With just a simple and rapid security check, I was directly in the passenger holding lounge situated at Gate No. F54 by 9.50 p.m.. Observing the number of waiting passengers in the passenger waiting lounge located near Gate No. F54, I could promptly conclude that Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) would have a half load tonight.
For tonight's trip, Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) would be operated by a Boeing 777-300/ER airplane, registered 9V-SWM and powered by only two General Electric GE90-115B jet engines, also painted in the white Star Alliance special jet livery. 9V-SWM was delivered to Singapore Airlines on 29 February 2008 as both the 70th major Boeing 777 aircraft and the 12th Boeing 777-300/ER aircraft for the airline itself. It was refitted with the airline's 2013 long-haul cabin seating products and a Premium Economy Class cabin from October 2015, also receiving the white Star Alliance special livery in April 2019. The overall major delivery would then make the aircraft have a passenger service age of approximately 17.2 years old today.
Furthermore, 9V-SWM was the exact aircraft involved in a major turbulence accident over Myanmar while operating as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 321 from London (Heathrow) to Singapore on 21 May 2024. Despite the demise of a 73-year-old senior male British national due to a possible cardiac arrest, the aircraft was diverted to Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport to permit the injured passengers and crew to receive medical treatment. It then returned to Singapore on 26 May 2024 and reentered passenger service from 27 July 2024 after undergoing extensive internal repairs and disinfection works.
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 evening rush hours as I begin to make my way to Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
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. F54 located in Concourse F 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. F54 located in Concourse F 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. F54 located in Concourse F 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. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Bypassing Bacha Coffee (Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 Branch) located in the main transit area at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the way to Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Bypassing Gates No. A1 to A8 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the way to Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Overlooking the airport terminal passageway connecting to Gates No. A9 to A21 located in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 on the way to Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Finally approaching the Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain platform bound for Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 during the late night rush hours
The Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain platform in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 serving the Singapore Changi Airport Skytrains bound for Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
A 2-car Mitsubishi Crystal Mover EMU arriving at the Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain platform in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
The interior of Car No. 1 of the 2-car Mitsubishi Crystal Mover EMU during the boarding process in Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3
Finally departing Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 for Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Traveling along the Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain tracks between Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 and Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 late at night
Overlooking the East Coast Parkway (ECP) between Concourse A at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3 and Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 late at night
Bypassing the multi-level parking garage while approaching Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Finally arriving at Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
The Singapore Changi Airport Skytrain platform in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 serving the Singapore Changi Airport Skytrains bound for Concourse A 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 F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Approaching the airport terminal passageway connecting to Gates No. F50 to F60 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Walking through the automated passageway connecting to Gates No. F52 to F60 located in Concourse F 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. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
Finally inside the passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 during the late night rush hours
My aircraft for tonight, 9V-SWM and painted in the white “Star Alliance” special livery, being serviced at Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F 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 notable for being involved in a fatal turbulence incident over Myanmar while operating as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 321 from London (Heathrow) to Singapore on 21 May 2024, resulting in the aircraft being diverted to Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) and taken out of service for extensive internal repairs and disinfection works for two months until it was returned to service on 27 July 2024
A closer view of 9V-SWM being serviced at Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F 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 passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 with some waiting passengers for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda)
The departure flight information screen in the passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 detailing important information for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda)
One additional view of 9V-SWM being serviced at Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F 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 passenger waiting lounge at Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F 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 25 minutes of anticipated waiting around the passenger holding area by Gate No. F54 in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2, the first boarding announcements for Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 bound for Tokyo (Haneda) were soon made at 10.15 p.m.. 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. F54 to Door A, I was on board 9V-SWM at 10.20 p.m., which was in good time for a 10.50 p.m. departure bound for Tokyo (Haneda). At the front main aircraft entrance door itself, 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. 17K 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. F54, 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.
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 meal course itself, I would have the Japanese Wagyu beef yakiniku with assorted seasonal vegetables and warmed 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 that 'Book The Cook' offers a wider selection of main dishes to choose from for selected services, it was a custom for me to choose my main courses 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-SWM while passing through the jet bridge at Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F 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. F54 located in Concourse F 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. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
A view of my seat, 17K, during the boarding process at Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F 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. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Overlooking the main airport tarmac during the boarding process at Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F 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. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Reviewing the Japanese Hanakoireki meal 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. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Reviewing the main food 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. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Reviewing the red wine, cocktail and aperitif 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. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Reviewing the cocktail, aperitif, spirit and beer 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. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
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. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
A Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941, registered 9V-SJI, resting at Gate No. F50 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 after arriving from her regional early evening return flight over the South China Sea from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 895 from Hong Kong
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. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 using Frutiger LT Std as the standard font for the trip report
The cover page for the KrisShop in-flight duty-free shopping magazine during the boarding process at Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
Reviewing the KrisShop in-flight duty-free shopping magazine during the boarding process at Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
A Singapore Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8, registered 9V-MBJ, resting at Gate No. F52 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 after arriving from her regional late night return shuttle flight over the Johor Strait from Malaysia as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 127 from Kuala Lumpur. This particular aircraft was familiar to me as I had once traveled on it as Singapore Airlines flight SQ 856 from Singapore to Shenzhen in February 2025
Awaiting departure from Gate No. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
After the clock struck around 11.35 p.m., the aircraft doors were soon closed, and the aircraft pushed back from Gate No. F54 in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2, approximately 45 minutes behind schedule. Once the flight safety briefing information video was shown on my front in-flight entertainment video screen, the twin-engine aircraft began to make its way across the airport tarmac to its assigned runway for its overnight flight over both the China Seas to Tokyo (Haneda), also bypassing some aircraft parked in Concourse E at Terminal 2 and Terminal 1 on the way. The central airport tarmac passage leading to the assigned main 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 exactly 11.45 p.m. for its long overnight flight duration of 6 hours 25 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 25 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. F54 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
About to taxi away from Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 shortly after pushing back from Gate No. F54
A Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941 Regional, registered 9V-SHN, resting at Gate No. F56 located in Concourse F 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 967 from Jakarta (SoekarnoｰHatta)
A Singapore Airlines Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, registered 9V-SCR, being serviced at Gate No. F58 located in Concourse F 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 672 bound for Nagoya (Centrair)
A Swiss International Air Lines Boeing 777-3DE/ER, registered HB-JNJ, being serviced at Gate No. F59 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 in preparation for her coming long overnight return flight over the Indian Ocean back to Switzerland as Swiss International Air Lines flight LX 177 bound for Zurich
Bypassing Gate No. F60 located in Concourse F at Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 on the way to the assigned airport runway
Overlooking Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 4 as the aircraft makes its way over the main airport tarmac to the taxiway near Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2
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
Getting closer 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 SQ 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 around 11.55 p.m., which was approximately five minutes into the journey. As the cabin attendants sprung into action to commence the in-flight service, I went to the lavatory and got out my large 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 supper meal course would consist of red meat, I quickly requested for a single glass of 2017 Glenelly Estate Reserve Red Blend, Stellenbosch, South African red wine as a suitable accompaniment for the coming in-flight late night supper meal later on.
With that instant, the flight attendant carefully noted down my 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. As the preparations for the in-flight late night supper service were underway, I instantly sat back to use my own electronic devices to pass the time. It was not that long until a flight cabin attendant appeared with my main in-flight late night supper meal tray at 12.25 a.m. later that night.
My in-flight late night supper meal tray comprised of a selection of sliced fresh fruits, together with my main meal course of Japanese Wagyu beef yakiniku with assorted seasonal vegetables and steamed white rice. With everything on my tray delivered, the flight attendant poured my glass of new 2017 Glenelly Estate Reserve Red Blend, Stellenbosch, South African wine to accompany my main dish course. I was also given a freshly-made croissant as a side dish for my in-flight late night meal at the same time.
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 really succulent and tender, as if they melted within my mouth like a piece of butter, with the steamed white rice, seasonal vegetables and South African red wine pairing really well with the main dish. The fresh 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.
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)
A view of my seat, 17K, in its lounging position 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 Tanjung Pinang, Indonesia
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
Cruising 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
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
Cruising 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 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
A selection of sliced fresh fruits on my in-flight late night supper meal tray
A glass of 2017 Glenelly Estate Reserve Red Blend, Stellenbosch, South African red wine to accompany my main in-flight late night supper course
My main course: Japanese Wagyu beef yakiniku with assorted seasonal vegetables and steamed white rice
A piece of freshly-baked croissant to accompany my main in-flight late night supper course
My used in-flight late night supper meal tray shortly after I had finished my main in-flight late night supper course
After having a sumptuous and filling main in-flight late night supper meal over the South China Sea, the clock was soon showing 12.50 a.m.. A flight attendant then came by my seat to collect my used supper tray and asked whether there was anything else I wanted. As I was in the mood for some snacks and liquor, I thus requested for a single glass of Baileys Irish Cream with ice and some cookies. With that, the flight attendant securely noted down my orders and returned with my cookies and Baileys Irish Cream by around one o' clock.
The Baileys Irish Cream with ice helped me to get relaxed for the rest of the night, with the cookies pairing well with my post-supper liquor itself. After my light snacks had been finished, I quickly 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 the cabin crew attendant made my seat into a complete lie-flat bed of 180º. Upon returning to my seat, I then did some private stuff on my portable laptop before turning in at precisely 1.30 a.m. for a well-earned good night's rest.
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 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Cruising over the South China Sea between Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia, 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 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Watching "Treasure Buddies" (2012) on my laptop during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where in this scene, two of the Golden Retriever Air Buddies, Budderball and MudBud, tuck into a dinner of scarab beetles offered by the Bedouin tribe in the deserts of Egypt
A glass of Baileys Irish Cream with ice and a platter of assorted cookies to help me settle down for the night
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Cam Ranh, Vietnam, and Puerto Princesa, Philippines
A view of my seat, 17K, in its complete lie-flat bed position during 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 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
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 2 hours 15 minutes of undisturbed rest over the South China Sea, I finally woke up by precisely 3.45 a.m., in accordance with the National Taiwan Standard Time. Given that most of the passengers were still asleep, I quietly proceeded to the nearest vacant lavatory to freshen up and brush my teeth before the upcoming early morning descent cum arrival into Tokyo (Haneda) later on. Seeing that I was already active and awake, a flight cabin attendant then asked me whether there was anything I wanted to commence the coming day ahead.
I then requested for a mug of hot TWG Earl Grey Tea with milk and a packet of Walker's Shortbread finger cookies, together with my seat to be securely converted back into its regular seating position. With that instant, the flight attendant helped to convert my Business Class seat into its standard seating position and safely went back to the galley area to prepare my morning tea. It was not that long until the flight attendant appeared by my seat with my morning tea items at around 4.05 a.m..
Adding the milk and sipping into my morning tea, I promptly felt refreshed, with the packet of Walker's Shortbread finger cookies serving as a suitable accompaniment for my tea. Once I had finished my tea and cookies, a crew attendant came to my seat at around 4.15 a.m. to collect my used tea mug and asked me whether there was anything I needed. I kindly reminded her not to forget my KrisShop duty-free purchases I had made just two months prior to my flight as daylight began to break over the Philippine Sea. With that, the flight crew attendant took note of my purchases and went to the front of the aircraft to collect them while I was left to use my laptop.
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Taitung, Taiwan, and Hirara, Okinawa, shortly after I had woken up
Cruising over the Philippine Sea between Taitung, Taiwan, and Hirara, Okinawa
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Taitung, Taiwan, and Hirara, Okinawa
A view of my seat, 17K, in its complete lie-flat bed position during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Taitung, Taiwan, and Hirara, Okinawa
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Taitung, Taiwan, and Hirara, Okinawa
A view of my seat, 17K, in its lounging position during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea near Hirara, Okinawa
Cruising over the Philippine Sea near Hirara, Okinawa, as daylight slowly begins to break
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea near Hirara, Okinawa
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea near Hirara, Okinawa
A mug of hot Earl Grey tea with milk and a packet of Walker's Shortbread finger cookies to commence the morning
About to enjoy my mug of hot Earl Grey tea with milk and packet of Walker's Shortbread finger cookies for the morning
Cruising over the Philippine Sea between Hirara and Naha, Okinawa, at the crack of daylight
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Hirara and Naha, Okinawa
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Hirara and Naha, Okinawa
Cruising over the Philippine Sea near Naha, Okinawa
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea near Naha, Okinawa
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea near Naha, Okinawa
After spending approximately 45 minutes of having some early morning tea and using my portable laptop, another flight attendant finally appeared at my seat at exactly 4.30 a.m.. This time, she had two sealed KrisShop security tamper-evident duty-free bags containing one exclusive Scale 1:500 die-cast aircraft model and four 128GB SD memory cards. Upon verifying that all of my KrisShop duty-free purchases were correct, I instantly stored them in my baggage and asked the flight attendant to bring me a glass of iced water.
With that, the flight attendant brought out my glass of iced water and went back to the front galley area to help the other in-flight cabin crew members prepare for the coming breakfast service later that morning. By around 4.50 a.m., many of the other passengers were slowly beginning to wake up after getting some sleep during the flight. At the exact same time, I asked one of the flight cabin crew attendants to bring me a cup of iced green tea. Once I had finally received my glass of iced green tea, I sipped on it and was left to utilize my electronic gadgets until it was safely time for the aircraft cabin to be prepared for the descent cum arrival into Tokyo (Haneda) later on.
As for the exclusive Scale 1:500 die-cast aircraft model that I had purchased online via the airline's KrisShop website, the details are as follows:
1) Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941 Herpa Scale 1:500 (529051-001)
Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-941 Herpa Scale 1:500 (529051-001)
My newly-purchased Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 Herpa Wings Scale 1:500 exclusive die-cast aircraft model and four 128GB SD memory cards 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
Cruising over the Philippine Sea between Naha and Urasoe, Okinawa
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Naha and Urasoe, Okinawa
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Naha and Urasoe, Okinawa
A view of my seat, 17K, during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea just aft of Naha and Urasoe, Okinawa
Cruising over the Philippine Sea near Amami Oshima, Kagoshima
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea near Amami Oshima, Kagoshima
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea near Amami Oshima, Kagoshima
A glass of iced water for myself during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea near Amami Oshima, Kagoshima
Cruising over the Philippine Sea between Amami Oshima, Kagoshima, and Miyazaki Prefecture
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Amami Oshima, Kagoshima, and Miyazaki Prefecture
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Amami Oshima, Kagoshima, and Miyazaki Prefecture
A view of my seat, 17K, in its lounging position during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Amami Oshima, Kagoshima, and Miyazaki Prefecture
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Amami Oshima, Kagoshima, and Miyazaki Prefecture
A glass of iced green tea for myself during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Amami Oshima, Kagoshima, and Miyazaki Prefecture
Cruising over the Philippine Sea between Miyazaki Prefecture and Kochi Prefecture
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
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
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Kochi Prefecture and Tokushima Prefecture
A view of my seat, 17K, in its original position during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Kochi Prefecture and Tokushima Prefecture
Cruising over the Philippine Sea 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 Philippine Sea 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 Philippine Sea between Tokushima Prefecture and Wakayama Prefecture
Cruising over the Philippine Sea near Wakayama Prefecture
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Wakayama Prefecture and Mie Prefecture
A view of my seat, 17K, in its original position during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Wakayama Prefecture and Mie Prefecture
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin during cruising altitude over the South China Sea between Wakayama Prefecture and Mie Prefecture
Cruising over the Philippine Sea between Wakayama Prefecture and Mie Prefecture
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat shortly before the seat belt signs were illuminated in preparation for the descent cum arrival into Tokyo (Haneda)
The rear view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin shortly before the seat belt signs were illuminated in preparation for the descent cum arrival into Tokyo (Haneda)
A view of my seat, 17K, shortly before 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' signs were illuminated again at precisely 6.40 a.m., approximately half an hour 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 aircraft could directly commence the approach into its final destination. The cabin attendants went around the large aircraft cabin conducting their final cabin checks at the same time.
The skies were rather cloudy throughout Tokyo Bay as the aircraft began to commence the approach into Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport). After a relatively long overnight flight duration of only 6 hours 25 minutes over the South China Sea and East China Sea from the warm tropical island city-state of the Republic of Singapore closer to the Johor Straits, I touched down into Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) at 7.10 a.m. sharp, approximately 25 minutes behind schedule. The aircraft then taxied across 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)
Cruising over Ise Bay between Mie Prefecture and Aichi Prefecture
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over Ise Bay between Mie Prefecture and Aichi Prefecture
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over Ise Bay between Mie Prefecture and Aichi Prefecture
Cruising over the Philippine Sea 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 the Philippine Sea between Aichi Prefecture and Shizuoka Prefecture
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over the Philippine Sea between Aichi Prefecture and Shizuoka Prefecture
Cruising 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 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
Cruising over the settlements of Sodegaura, Chiba, near the waters of Tokyo Bay
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over Tokyo Bay near Sodegaura, Chiba
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over Tokyo Bay near Sodegaura, Chiba
Cruising over the settlements of Ichihara, Chiba, near the waters of Tokyo Bay
The flight route indication map on my front in-flight entertainment video screen indicating the aircraft's cruising altitude over Tokyo Bay near Ichihara, Chiba
The view of the Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-300/ER Business Class cabin from my seat during cruising altitude over Tokyo Bay near Ichihara, Chiba
Cruising over the settlements of Urayasu, Chiba, as the aircraft begins to make its one final approach into Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport)
Overlooking Tokyo Sky Tree and the Arakawa River as the aircraft begins to make its one final approach into Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport)
Cruising over the settlements of Edogawa-ku, Tokyo, as the aircraft begins to make its one final approach into Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport)
Cruising over the settlements of Edogawa-ku and Koto-ku, Tokyo, as the aircraft begins to make its one final approach into Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport)
Singapore Airlines Flight 636 ~ Cloudy Early Morning Arrival Into Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport)
Taxiing along the main airport tarmac past Gate No. 141 located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 shortly after the aircraft had landed
A Japan Airlines Boeing 777-346/ER, registered JA742J, resting at Gate No. 141 located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 after arriving from her long overnight return flight over the South China Sea and East China Sea from the Kingdom of Thailand as Japan Airlines flight JL 034 from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi)
About to make a right turn along the main airport tarmac in the direction leading to Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3
A Japan Airlines Boeing 777-346/ER, registered JA736J, being serviced at Gate No. 111 located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 in preparation for her coming long early morning transoceanic flight over the North Pacific Ocean and Arctic Ocean to the Republic of Finland as Japan Airlines flight JL 047 bound for Helsinki
An All Nippon Airways Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, registered JA839A, about to be serviced at Gate No. 109 located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 in preparation for her coming long morning transpacific flight over the North Pacific Ocean to the United States as All Nippon Airways flight NH 114 bound for Houston (George Bush)
An Asiana Airlines Airbus A330-323X, registered HL8259, being serviced at Gate No. 108A located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 in preparation for her coming regional morning return flight over the Sea of Japan back to the Republic of Korea (South Korea) as Asiana Airlines flight OZ 1055 bound for Seoul (Gimpo)
Finally arriving at my assigned arrival gate, Gate No. 107A, 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. 107A, located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3
After cruising across the central airport tarmac for approximately 10 minutes to Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3, I soon arrived by my assigned arrival airport gate, Gate No. 107A, at 7.20 a.m. sharp. Once the seat belt signs were turned off, I safely unbuckled my seat belt and retrieved my belongings from their stowage spaces before the central disembarkation procedures by Gate No. 107A could commence. I also conducted a final cross check around my seat to ensure that I had not left anything behind.
The flight attendants then opened both the two front aircraft doors securely to allow everybody to disembark from the plane at Gate No. 107A located in Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3. Disembarking from 9V-SWM via the front airplane door, the 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. 107A 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 at least 2026 or 2027.
As of 1 May 2025, 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: 18 / 20
In-flight Service: 18 / 20
Aircraft Cleanliness: 17 / 20
Legroom Space: 18 / 20
Total: 90 / 100
Grade: Outstanding
In consideration of the individual major airline score components, Singapore Airlines has obtained a total aggregate score of 90% 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 Oakwood Suites Yokohama
After disembarking from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 from Singapore by Gate No. 107A 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. 107A to the local arrival immigration checkpoints took not more than approximately five minutes that morning. Reaching the central arrival immigration checkpoints at precisely 7.30 a.m., 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 securely by 7.35 a.m., 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 E. With that moment, I immediately headed into the main baggage claiming lobby to grab one baggage cart before proceeding over to Belt E to collect all my check-in 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. 107A 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
One final view of 9V-SWM resting at Gate No. 107A 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
After collecting my bulkier check-in baggage from Singapore Airlines flight SQ 636 from Singapore at Belt E 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 7.45 a.m.. Given that I was feeling quite grubby after my main in-bound overnight flight voyage from Singapore, I wisely decided to have a warm post-arrival shower first before eventually commencing any major post-arrival errands for the morning.
With that, I securely walked through the main arrivals and meeting lobby in search of a nearby post-arrival airport shower facility with my baggage cart in tow. Soon enough, I finally arrived at a major post-arrival shower lounge, known as The Shower Room, by precisely 7.50 a.m.. Heading to the shower reception counter area, I informed a nearby shower staff receptionist that I was planning to have a shower after my flight from Singapore. The airport shower staff receptionist informed me that each shower session would cost just ¥1,500 (S$13.55) for the first half an hour, with an additional charge of ¥750 (S$6.75) 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 assigned to Room A for my post-arrival airport shower, with the allocated shower room cubicle itself free for me to use until 8.30 a.m. sharp later that morning.
With that, I then thanked the shower staff receptionist and took my airport shower room key prior to proceeding to my allocated shower Room A with my lighter haversack. Inserting the key into the locks of Room A, I promptly 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.
Finally entering the 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 arrivals and meeting lobby located on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 in search of a post-arrival shower facility 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
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 search of my assigned shower Room A
Finally arriving at my assigned shower Room A 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 A 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 A 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 A 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 shower
After having a very well-earned and refreshing shower in The Shower Room situated 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 eight o' clock sharp. Ensuring that there was nothing left behind, I turned off all the lights and locked my assigned Room W before heading to the main shower reception counter to return my assigned shower room key, as well as to collect my bulkier check-in baggage cart. Since I would have to make some reservations during the stay in Japan, I safely knew that I would have to purchase a Japanese cell phone SIM card for my personal use.
Loading my belongings onto the large baggage cart, I departed The Shower Room at 8.05 a.m. and walked across the post-arrivals and meeting lobby in search of a cellular SIM card retail store. Soon enough, I arrived at a cellular Wi-Fi router and SIM card store closer to Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, known as Global Wi-Fi & Ninja Wi-Fi (Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Branch) (グローバルWi-Fi・NINJA Wi-Fi 羽田空港第3ターミナル店), at precisely 8.10 a.m. sharp. Proceeding to the major reception counter, I informed a receptionist that I had plans to get a local Japanese cell phone SIM card for my own use in Japan.
The staff receptionist then recommended me a one-month plan that would allow me to make local phone calls in Japan. Each phone call would last up to ten minutes for every session, with extra surcharges to be applied to my VISA credit card should any one session exceed the time limit. My Japanese phone number would also expire on Thursday (3 July), although my return date back to Singapore would be on Friday (13 June). With that moment, I agreed and made the necessary payment for my main Japanese cell phone SIM card before inserting it into the spare cell phone.
Upon securing my local Japanese cell phone SIM card, I thanked the Global Wi-Fi & Ninja Wi-Fi receptionist and soon made my way to Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station to exchange my Japan Rail Pass Exchange Voucher for a one-week Green-type Japan Rail Pass. Passing through the Tokyo Monorail concourse, I safely reached the JR East Travel Service Center at exactly 8.30 a.m.. Placing my cart outside the entrance, I went to the nearest exchange counter, where I showed both my passport and Green-type Japan Rail Pass Exchange Voucher to a local staff receptionist on duty. The Japan Rail Pass exchange process lasted approximately five minutes that early morning.
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 6.45 a.m. to 8.00 p.m. 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 15 March 2025, 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 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 as I begin to make my way to Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station
Bypassing the domestic flight connection check-in counters in the arrivals and meeting lobby located on the second floor at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 during the early morning rush hours
Making a right turn in the direction leading to Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station in 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 the customer service counters in 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 the Keikyu Airport Line ticketing concourse at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station during the early morning rush hours
Overlooking the passageway leading to Haneda Airport Garden from 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 some temporary baggage storage lockers near Global Wi-Fi & Ninja Wi-Fi (Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Branch) (グローバルWi-Fi・NINJA Wi-Fi 羽田空港第3ターミナル店) close to the Keikyu Airport Line ticketing concourse at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station during the early morning rush hours
Making a brief stop at Global Wi-Fi & Ninja Wi-Fi (Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Branch) (グローバルWi-Fi・NINJA Wi-Fi 羽田空港第3ターミナル店) near the Keikyu 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 Japan Rail Pass application and exchange process at the JR East Travel Service Center at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, I received my one-week Green-type Japan Rail Pass at exactly 8.35 a.m. sharp. The valid dates of unlimited railway journeys would also last from Wednesday (4 June) to Tuesday (10 June). Given that I would be going on an westbound aviation spotting day adventure to Kansai International Airport in the local waters of Osaka Bay for my 30th birthday the next day, I promptly made my Green Car (first class) seat reservations for that upcoming journey.
I also made an additional Green Car (first class) seat reservation for a private local hot spring relaxation day journey to Ito, which would be scheduled for Thursday (5 June). Upon completing my required main Green Car (first class) seat reservations for the early morning, the local clock was already showing 8.50 a.m. sharp. Given that I was feeling quite hungry, I instantly decided to proceed to Terminal 2 for a light breakfast prior to commencing my railway journey to the Oakwood Suites Yokohama later that morning.
With that, I quickly departed the JR East Travel Service Center and went back into the arrivals and meeting lobby area before catching the closest elevator down to Entrance Plaza on the first floor, eventually reaching there safely at 8.55 a.m.. Returning the baggage cart at the airport cart pool, I grabbed my baggage and boarded the nearest arriving yellow free inter-airport terminal shuttle bus for the coming routine bus trip to Terminal 2. Once the bus door was securely closed, I soon departed Terminal 3 by 9.05 a.m. sharp for a free inter-airport terminal shuttle bus trip of only 10 minutes to Terminal 2.
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 during the early morning rush hours
Bypassing the automated ticketing gates in the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line ticketing concourse at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station on the way down to the Entrance Plaza located 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 arriving 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 during the boarding process at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3
Finally departing Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 3 on a damp and rainy 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 damp and rainy 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 damp and rainy summer's early morning
Traveling through Tokyo Metropolitan Route 311 along Kanpachi-dori, Ota-ku, Tokyo, on a damp and rainy 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 damp and rainy 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 damp and rainy 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 damp and rainy summer's early morning
Bypassing the multi-level parking garage near Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 1 on a damp and rainy summer's early morning
Making a brief stop at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 1 on a damp and rainy summer's early morning
Bypassing another multi-level parking garage near Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 1 on a damp and rainy 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 damp and rainy 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 damp and rainy summer's early morning
Bypassing the multi-level parking garage located near Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 on a damp and rainy summer's early morning
Finally arriving at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) Terminal 2 on damp and rainy 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 9.15 a.m.. 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 9.20 a.m. sharp. This particular fast food outlet was quite familiar to me as I had breakfast here twice before in August 2023 and June 2024. 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 five-piece Chicken McNuggets and a medium-sized Fanta grape drink. Upon making the necessary cash payment for my breakfast meal and receiving 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 damp and rainy summer's 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
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 joint 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 first two solo getaway trips to eastern Japan in August & September 2023 and June 2024
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 five-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 light 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 9.35 a.m.. Given that the time had come for me to head to the Oakwood Suites Yokohama, I took my baggage and proceeded to the automatic ticketing machines situated in the major Tokyo Monorail ticketing concourse at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station to purchase a single one-way ticket to Yokohama.
Once I had purchased my one-way railway over ticket to Yokohama, I passed through the automated monorail ticketing gates and promptly checked 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 by 9.58 a.m. sharp from Track No. 1. Without wasting anymore time, I took the escalator down to the main station platforms for the first main section of the coming trip to Hamamatsucho, eventually reaching there safely at 9.40 a.m..
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 2025, 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 15 March 2025, 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
Making a brief stop by the automated ticketing machines in the main ticketing concourse at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station to purchase my one-way railway ticket to Yokohama 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 early morning rush hours
An out-of-service 6-car Tokyo Monorail 10000 series EMU Set No. 10041F, painted in the former Tokyo Monorail 100 series white with light blue and navy blue special livery, on Track No. 2 at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
A 6-car Tokyo Monorail 10000 series EMU Set No. 10021F, operating as the 9.45 a.m. local service bound for Hamamatsucho, on Track No. 1 at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
A 6-car Tokyo Monorail 1000 series EMU Set No. 1091F, painted in the new Tokyo Monorail white with lime green, light blue and navy blue livery and operating as the 9.48 a.m. "Haneda Express" service bound for Hamamatsucho, on Track No. 2 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
A 6-car Tokyo Monorail 2000 series EMU Set No. 2011F, operating as the 9.55 a.m. 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 9.58 a.m. "Haneda Express" service bound for Hamamatsucho arrived at the station
After spending almost 15 minutes of anticipated waiting on the platforms, a 6-car Tokyo Monorail 10000 series EMU Set No. 10011F eventually arrived at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station at 9.54 a.m. on Track No. 1. The train had arrived from Hamamatsucho situated in Minato-ku, Tokyo, as a local service bound for Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport), and was to directly undergo a short change of direction before becoming the 9.58 a.m. Haneda Express monorail service bound for Hamamatsucho later on. Once all of the train doors were opened, I promptly boarded the train via Car No. 1 (10011) and secured an observation seat by the driver's cab.
Once the clock struck exactly 9.58 a.m. 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 main Hamamatsucho district located in downtown Minato-ku, Tokyo.
The 6-car Tokyo Monorail 10000 series EMU Set No. 10011F, now operating as the 9.58 a.m. "Haneda Express" service bound for Hamamatsucho, on Track No. 1 at Haneda Airport Terminal 2 Station
The interior of Car No. 1 (10011) on board the 6-car Tokyo Monorail 10000 series EMU Set No. 10011F, operating as the 9.58 a.m. "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 (10011) of the 6-car Tokyo Monorail 10000 series EMU Set No. 10011F, operating as the 9.58 a.m. "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 just 19 minutes from Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) situated close to the waters of Tokyo Bay in the outskirts of Ota-ku, Tokyo, I finally arrived at the Hamamatsucho terminal station by precisely 10.17 a.m.. Checking to see that I had not left anything behind, I safely disembarked from the train and took the nearest elevator down to the Tokyo Monorail Haneda Airport Line transit concourse before eventually making my way directly to the major JR Line interchange ticketing gates.
Inserting my main one-way railroad ticket into one of the automatic 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 bound for Isogo would depart by precisely 10.34 a.m. sharp 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 a.m..
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 10000 series EMU Set No. 10011F, now operating as the 10.20 a.m. "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 10000 series EMU Set No. 10011F, operating as the 10.20 a.m. "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 damp and rainy summer's morning
A 6-car Tokyo Monorail 2000 series EMU Set No. 2011F, which would operate as the 10.25 a.m. 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
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
Finally arriving at Tracks No. 3 and 4 at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
A 10-car E233 series EMU, operating as the 10.29 a.m. Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line local service bound for Ofuna, arriving at Hamamatsucho Station on Track No. 4
The overall view of the JR Line station platforms at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
Tracks No. 3 and 4 serving the Yamanote Line Outer Loop trains bound for Shinagawa, Osaki and Shibuya and Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line trains bound for Shinagawa, Yokohama and Ofuna at Hamamatsucho Station during the morning off-peak hours
Track No. 4 at Hamamatsucho Station shortly before the 10.34 a.m. 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, securely operating as the 10.34 a.m. Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line local service bound for Isogo, finally arrived at Hamamatsucho Station by 10.34 a.m. on Track No. 4. Once the train doors were automatically opened, I quickly boarded the train through Car No. 5 and secured a vacant seat for the short morning commuter trip time of 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 a.m. Keihin-Tohoku Negishi Line local service bound for Isogo, arriving at Hamamatsucho Station on Track No. 4
The interior of Car No. 5 on board the 10-car E233 series EMU, operating as the 10.34 a.m. 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
Making a brief stop at Tamachi Station
Bypassing several downtown office infrastructure 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
Bypassing some suburban office infrastructure in Hiromachi 1-chome, Shinagawa-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 some 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
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
Crossing underneath the Tsurumi Line flyover viaduct in Tsurumi 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 residential housing estates in Shin-koyasu 1-chome, Kanagawa-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 resideintial housing estates in Shin-koyasu 1-chome, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama, between Shin-koyasu and Higashi-kanagawa Stations
Bypassing some hillside 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 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 35 minutes from the colossal hustle and bustle of the Hamamatsucho district in downtown Minato-ku, Tokyo, I finally arrived at Yokohama Station by precisely 11.09 a.m. sharp on Track No. 3. Checking to make sure that I did not leave any baggage behind, I then disembarked from the train and took the nearest elevator down to the main JR Line interchange transit concourse prior to inserting my used single journey railway ticket into the automatic JR Line ticketing gates.
Once I was in the JR Line ticketing concourse, I quickly made my way to the escalators connecting directly to the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse, thus reaching the concourse safely at 11.15 a.m. sharp. Heading to the automated train ticketing machines, I immediately went to purchase a one-way railway ticket to Bashamichi Station for a price of only ¥200 (S$1.80), which was the nearest station to my hotel. This would be an effective move in getting to my hotel securely as catching the Minatomirai Line would be more cost-saving than getting a cab.
Upon purchasing my one-way ticket to Bashamichi Station, I went to check the departure time for the closest direct Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line Express train bound for Motomachi-chukagai. According to the major departure information screens, the next Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line Express train bound for Motomachi-chukagai would depart at exactly 11.30 a.m. from Track No. 1. Without wasting anymore time, I then passed through the railway ticketing gates and took the closest elevator down to the Tokyu Toyoko Line and Minatomirai Line platform level, thus reaching the platforms at 11.20 a.m..
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 main JR Line interchange transit concourse at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Approaching the JR Line ticketing gates in the main JR Line interchange transit concourse at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Walking through the JR Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Approaching the escalators and staircase connecting to the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse in the JR Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Finally arriving at the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Stopping at the automated ticketing machines in the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the early 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 early afternoon off-peak hours
The Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line transit concourse leading down to the station platforms at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Finally arriving at the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line station platforms at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
An 8-car Tokyo Metro 17000 series EMU, operating as the 11.20 a.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line local service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, arriving at Yokohama Station on Track No. 1
Track No. 2 serving the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line trains bound for Motomachi-chukagai at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
The station name plate across the railway tracks on Track No. 1 at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
A 10-car Tobu 50070 series EMU, operating as the 11.23 a.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Limited Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, arriving at Yokohama Station on Track No. 1
The overall view of the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line station platforms at Yokohama Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
The overhead departure information panel for the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line trains departing from Track No. 1 at Yokohama Station indicating that the next Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Express" train bound for Motomachi-chukagai would depart at 11.30 a.m.
An 8-car Tokyu 5050 series EMU, operating as the 11.27 a.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line local service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, arriving at Yokohama Station on Track No. 1
Track No. 1 at Yokohama Station shortly before the 11.30 a.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai arrived at the station
After spending almost 10 minutes of anticipated waiting on the main Tokyu Toyoko Line and Minatomirai Line railway station platforms, a 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the direct 11.30 a.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line Express service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, directly arrived at Yokohama Station by exactly 11.30 a.m. on Track No. 1. Once the train doors were opened, I soon boarded the train via Car No. 3 and settled into a vacant seat for the coming routine early afternoon commuter trip of five minutes to Bashamichi Station in Honcho, Naka-ku, Yokohama.
Soon enough, within a few seconds, all the main doors were closed, and the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line Express train service soon pulled out of Yokohama Station for the rest of its routine morning commuter trip time of just 1 hour 41 minutes from Tokorozawa to Motomachi-chukagai via the Seibu Lines and Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line. I was eventually en route for an early afternoon commuter trip timing of just five minutes to Bashamichi Station located in the center of Honcho, Naka-ku, Yokohama.
A 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 11.30 a.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, arriving at Yokohama Station on Track No. 1
The interior of Car No. 3 on board the 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 11.30 a.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, shortly before departing Yokohama Station
Finally departing Yokohama Station
The interior of Car No. 3 on board the 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 11.30 a.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, between Yokohama and Shin-takashima Stations
The route guidance information panel above the train doors on board Car No. 3 of the 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 11.30 a.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai "Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, indicating that the next station is Minatomirai
Passing through Shin-takashima Station
The interior of Car No. 3 on board the 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 11.30 a.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, between Shin-takashima and Minatomirai Stations
Making a brief stop at Minatomirai Station
The route guidance information panel above the train doors on board Car No. 3 of the 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 11.30 a.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai "Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, indicating that the next station is Bashamichi
The interior of Car No. 3 on board the 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 11.30 a.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, between Minatomirai and Bashamichi Stations
Finally arriving at Bashamichi Station
After a routine early afternoon commuter trip timing of approximately five minutes from Yokohama Station situated between Takashima and Minami-saiwai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, I finally arrived at Bashamichi Station by 11.35 a.m. sharp on Track No. 1. Checking to ensure that I did not leave anything behind on board, I immediately disembarked from the train and caught an escalator up to the main station transit concourse area before inserting my one-way Minatomirai Line railway ticket into one of the automated major ticketing gates and securely taking two sets of escalators to the Yokohama Kitanaka Knot Entrance of the station complex.
Knowing that I would have to stay hydrated during the course of my time in eastern Japan, I instantly decided to find a nearby supermarket to purchase some necessary beverages. Upon directly departing the Yokohama Kitanaka Knot Entrance at Bashamichi Station, I finally stumbled upon a nearby main supermarket, known as LINCOS (Yokohama Bashamichi Branch) (リンコス 横浜馬車道店), by precisely 11.40 a.m.. While shopping there, I purchased two large bottles of mineral water and two small bottles of local Japanese royal milk tea without sugar.
Later on, I was back at the first floor express elevator lobby entrance door to the Oakwood Suites Yokohama by precisely 11.50 a.m.. Catching the nearest express elevator up to the main hotel lobby on the 46th floor, I went over to the major check-in reception counter and informed a hotel staff receptionist that I had an upcoming 10-day stay with the hotel. Once I had presented my passport and relevant traveling documents, I informed the staff receptionist of my plan to check in early since I was still feeling quite tired from the long overnight flight from Singapore, with an early main check-in fee applicable. The entire main check-in procedures took not more than approximately five minutes that afternoon.
Bashamichi Station (Japanese: 馬車道駅; Traditional Chinese: 馬車道站; Thai: สถานีบาชามิจิ; Korean: 바샤미치역) is a major underground railroad station at 49 Honcho 5-chome, Naka-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan. Operated by Yokohama Minatomirai Railway, it is situated on the Minatomirai Line and primarily serves as the nearest railway station for the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, Kanagawa Museum of Cultural History and the NYK Maritime Museum. Having opened for service on 1 February 2004, the major station complex currently serves as a mandatory stopping point for all Commuter Express, Express and local services connecting both to and from the Tokyu Toyoko Line and Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line with just one underground island platform serving two tracks.
The station platforms located on the third basement level at Bashamichi Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
The main transit concourse located on the second basement level leading down to the station platforms at Bashamichi Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
About to pass through the automated ticketing gates in the main transit concourse located on the second basement level at Bashamichi Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Bypassing the automated ticketing machines in the main station ticketing concourse located on the second basement level at Bashamichi Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Approaching the escalators connecting to the first basement level from the second basement level at Bashamichi Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
Approaching the first basement level passageway leading to the Yokohama Kitanaka Knot Entrance at Bashamichi Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
About to take the escalators up to the Yokohama Kitanaka Knot Entrance at Bashamichi Station during the early afternoon off-peak hours
The Yokohama Kitanaka Knot Entrance at Bashamichi Station on a damp and rainy summer's early afternoon
Stopping over at LINCOS (Yokohama Bashamichi Branch) (リンコス 横浜馬車道店) to purchase some beverages during the course of my coming stay in Yokohama
Approaching the first floor entrance leading to the Oakwood Suites Yokohama and The Tower Yokohama Kitanaka shortly after I had purchased my groceries from LINCOS (Yokohama Bashamichi Branch) (リンコス 横浜馬車道店)
Finally arriving at the first floor hotel entrance to the Oakwood Suites Yokohama on a damp and rainy summer's early afternoon
Approaching the express elevator lobby located near the first floor hotel entrance to the Oakwood Suites Yokohama on a damp and rainy summer's early afternoon
Bypassing the observation area close to the main hotel lobby located on the 46th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama
Approaching the main hotel lobby located on the 46th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama
Finally arriving at the hotel check-in reception counters in the main hotel lobby located on the 46th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama
After completing the hotel check-in process in the main hotel lobby located on the 46th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama, I securely obtained my assigned room keys by 12 noon. The check-in receptionist on duty informed me that I would be assigned to Room No. 4810 situated on the hotel's 48th floor for the duration of my main stay in Yokohama, with a check-out time scheduled for exactly 12 noon on Thursday (12 June). With all my allocated room keys in hand, I quickly thanked the hotel check-in receptionist for his services and caught the closest elevator up to the 48th floor prior to finally reaching my assigned Room No. 4810 at 12.05 p.m..
My studio room had a small kitchenette by the main entrance door, with a refrigerator and an induction cooking stove, though I would not be doing any cooking since I would be out daily. There was also one single king bed and a balcony area that offered good views of Tokyo Bay, together with a built-in major safe in the closet. Entering the bathroom, I quickly saw that there was a cubicle containing a shower pod by the sink and an all-in-one washing and drying machine close to my toilet. This would be convenient since I could wash all my clothes overnight 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 rest in my assigned Room No. 4810 at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama for the afternoon. I also took the opportunity to inform both my parents that I had arrived safely in Yokohama.
Approaching the hotel guest elevator lobby in the main hotel lobby located on the 46th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama on a damp and rainy summer's early afternoon
Finally arriving at my assigned Room No. 4810 located on the 48th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama
Overlooking Tokyo Bay and several downtown infrastructure from my assigned Room No. 4810 located on the 48th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama on a damp and rainy summer's early afternoon
Overlooking the Yokohama Bay Bridge from my assigned Room No. 4810 located on the 48th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama on a damp and rainy summer's early afternoon
The all-in-one washing and drying machine close to the toilet in the bathroom of my assigned Room No. 4810 located on the 48th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama
One additional view of my assigned Room No. 4810 located on the 48th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama shortly before I had my well-earned early afternoon rest
After spending the rest of the early afternoon sorting out my clothes and having a long, well-earned afternoon rest in my assigned Room No. 4810 located on the 48th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama, the in-room clock was finally showing 2.15 p.m.. Given that I had some errands to run later on, I gathered my necessary belongings and departed my Room No. 4810 before catching the nearest elevator down to the main hotel lobby situated on the 46th floor, thus reaching there safely by around 2.20 p.m. later that afternoon.
Transferring to the express elevator lobby area, I immediately caught the nearest express elevator down to the first floor of The Tower Yokohama Kitanaka before heading outside to the major Yokohama Kitanaka Knot Entrance of Bashamichi Station. Once I had entered the station complex safely, I took two sets of escalators down to the station's major ticketing concourse level before heading to the automated ticketing machines to purchase a one-way Minatomirai Line ticket to Yokohama Station for an affordable price of ¥200 (S$1.80).
Upon purchasing my direct one-way Minatomirai Line ticket, I safely passed through the ticketing gates and checked the departure timing for the next Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line Express train bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line. According to the local railway departure information screens in the ticketing concourse lobby, the next Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line Express train bound for Wakoshi via Shibuya and the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line would depart by 2.44 p.m. from Track No. 2. With that instant, I quickly took the nearest escalator downwards to the station platforms in preparation for the coming regional trip to Yokohama Station, thus reaching there safely at 2.30 p.m..
The main hotel lobby located on the 46th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama on a damp and rainy summer's mid-afternoon
The observation area close to the main hotel lobby located on the 46th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama on a damp and rainy summer's mid-afternoon
Approaching the express elevator lobby connecting to the first floor hotel entrance and the Yokohama Kitanaka Knot on the 46th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama on a damp and rainy summer's mid-afternoon
The first floor hotel entrance to the Oakwood Suites Yokohama on a damp and rainy summer's mid-afternoon
Overlooking several retail outlet stores in the Kitanaka Brick & White commercial and cultural shopping district from the Yokohama Kitanaka Knot Entrance at Bashamichi Station on a damp and rainy summer's mid-afternoon
Finally arriving at the Yokohama Kitanaka Knot Entrance at Bashamichi Station on a damp and rainy summer's mid-afternoon
Approaching the first basement level passageway leading to the main station ticketing concourse at Bashamichi Station on a damp and rainy summer's mid-afternoon
About to take an additional set of escalators down to the main station ticketing concourse located on the second basement level from the first basement level at Bashamichi Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
The main station ticketing concourse located on the second basement level at Bashamichi Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Stopping at the automated ticketing machines in the main station ticketing concourse located on the second basement level at Bashamichi Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
About to pass through the ticketing gates in the main station ticketing concourse located on the second basement level at Bashamichi Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
The main transit concourse located on the second basement level leading down to the station platforms at Bashamichi Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Finally arriving at the station platforms located on the third basement level at Bashamichi Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
The overhead departure information panel for the Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line trains departing from Track No. 2 at Bashamichi Station indicating that the next Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "Express" train bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line would depart at 2.44 p.m.
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 Bashamichi Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
The station name plate across the railway tracks on Track No. 2 at Bashamichi Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
The overhead departure information panel for the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line trains departing from Track No. 1 at Bashamichi Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Track No. 1 serving the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line trains bound for Motomachi-chukagai at Bashamichi Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
A 10-car Tokyo Metro 10000 series EMU, operating as the 2.33 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "F Liner Limited Express" service bound for Shinrin-koen via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line & Tobu Tojo Line from Motomachi-chukagai, passing through Bashamichi Station on Track No. 2
A 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 2.35 p.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, arriving at Bashamichi Station on Track No. 1
An 8-car Yokohama Minatomirai Railway Y500 series EMU, operating as the 2.38 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line local service bound for Shakujii-koen via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line & Seibu Lines, arriving at Bashamichi Station on Track No. 1
The overall view of the station platforms located on the third basement level at Bashamichi Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
An 8-car Tokyu 5050 series EMU, operating as the 2.41 p.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line local service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, arriving at Bashamichi Station on Track No. 1
Track No. 2 at Bashamichi Station shortly before the 2.44 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "Express" service bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line arrived at the station
After spending approximately 15 minutes of anticipated waiting along the platform, a 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, currently operating as the 2.44 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line Express service bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, soon arrived at Bashamichi Station at precisely 2.44 p.m. on Track No. 2. Once all the train doors were automatically opened, I securely boarded the train through Car No. 3 and settled into a vacant seat for the coming afternoon commuter trip of four minutes to Yokohama Station in downtown Nishi-ku, Yokohama.
Soon enough, within a few seconds, all the doors were then closed, and the Minatomirai Line and Tokyu Toyoko Line Express train service pulled out of Bashamichi Station for the rest of its routine mid-afternoon commuter rush trip timing of 1 hour 20 minutes from Motomachi-chukagai to Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line. I was eventually on my way for a routine afternoon commuter trip timing of only four minutes to Yokohama Station located between Minami-saiwai and Takashima, Nishi-ku, Yokohama.
A 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 2.44 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "Express" service bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, arriving at Bashamichi Station on Track No. 2
The interior of Car No. 3 on board the 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 2.44 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "Express" service bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, during the boarding process on Track No. 2 at Bashamichi Station
Finally departing Bashamichi Station
The route guidance information panel above the train doors on board Car No. 3 of the 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 2.44 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "Express" service bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, indicating that the next station is Minatomirai
The interior of Car No. 3 on board the 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 2.44 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "Express" service bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, between Bashamichi and Minatomirai Stations
Making a brief stop at Minatomirai Station
The interior of Car No. 3 on board the 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 2.44 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "Express" service bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, between Minatomirai and Shin-takashima Stations
Passing through Shin-takashima Station
The interior of Car No. 3 on board the 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 2.44 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "Express" service bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, between Shin-takashima and Yokohama Stations
Finally arriving at Yokohama Station
After a routine mid-afternoon commuter trip duration of four minutes from Bashamichi Station in the heart of Honcho, Naka-ku, Yokohama, I arrived at Yokohama Station by 2.48 p.m. sharp on Track No. 2. Checking to make sure that I had not left anything behind, I safely disembarked from the train and caught the closest elevator up to the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line transit concourse lobby before inserting my used one-way Minatomirai Line journey ticket into one of the automated railway ticketing gates.
Soon enough, I was in the central JR Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station by precisely 2.55 p.m. sharp. Given that I had some Green Car (first class) seat reservations to make for my coming railway journeys, I instantly decided to stop by at the JR Ticket Office as the very first port of call. With that instant, I soon made my way to the main JR Ticket Office to make my Green Car (first class) seat reservations for my railway day trips during the course of my vacation in Japan. The seat reservations included day trips to familiar destinations like Fukuoka and Tsuruga, with the entire procedure lasting not more than approximately 55 minutes.
The overall view of the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line station platforms at Yokohama Station during the mid-afterrnoon off-peak hours
The Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line transit concourse at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Approaching the automated ticketing gates in the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line transit concourse at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
The Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
About to take the escalators up to the JR Line ticketing concourse from the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Approaching the JR Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
Finally arriving at the main entrance to the JR Ticket Office in the JR Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the mid-afternoon off-peak hours
After completing all my necessary Green Car (first class) seat reservations at the JR Ticket Office located in the JR Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station, the clock was already showing 3.50 p.m.. Since I was feeling rather hungry, I instantly decided to head to Ikebukuro for dinner, with a transfer at Shibuya Station. With that, I departed the JR Ticket Office and made my way to the escalators connecting to the underground Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse, where I promptly purchased a single railroad journey ticket to Shibuya for a price of ¥310 (S$2.80).
Upon purchasing my one-way major Tokyu Toyoko Line ticket to Shibuya, I directly went to check the departure time for the next Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line Limited Express train service bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line. According to the central railroad departure information panels, the next direct Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line Limited Express train service bound for Wakoshi via both Shibuya and the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line would safely depart at 4.12 p.m. sharp from Track No. 2. With that moment, I then passed through the ticketing gates and caught the closest elevator down to the platform level, thus reaching securely by around four o' clock.
The JR Ticket Office in the JR Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station shortly after I had completed my necessary Green Car (first class) seat reservations during the late afternoon rush hours
Walking through the JR Line ticketing concourse in the direction leading to the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Finally arriving at the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Stopping at the automated ticketing gates in the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the late afternoon rush hours
About to pass through the automated ticketing gates in the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Yokohama Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Finally arriving at the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line station platforms at Yokohama Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Track No. 1 serving the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line trains bound for Motomachi-chukagai at Yokohama Station during the late afternoon rush hours
The overall view of the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line station platforms at Yokohama Station during the late afternoon rush hours
An 8-car Tokyu 5050 series EMU, operating as the 4.04 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "Express" service bound for Shibuya, arriving at Yokohama Station on Track No. 2
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 "Limited Express" train bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line would depart at 4.12 p.m.
An 8-car Tokyu 5050 series EMU, operating as the 4.07 p.m. 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 4.12 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "Limited Express" service bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line arrived at the station
After spending approximately 10 minutes of anticipated waiting along the platforms, a 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 4.12 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line Limited Express train service bound for Wakoshi via Shibuya and the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, eventually arrived at Yokohama Station at exactly 4.09 p.m. on Track No. 2. Once the train doors were opened, I boarded the train via Car No. 3 and secured an empty seat for the regional main late afternoon commuter rush trip of 27 minutes to the modern and colossal hustle and bustle of Shibuya.
Once the clock struck exactly 4.12 p.m. sharp, all the train doors were closed, and the Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line Limited Express train service soon pulled out of Yokohama Station for the rest of its rapid late afternoon commuter rush trip of only 1 hour 05 minutes from Motomachi-chukagai to Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line. I was finally on my way for a routine afternoon commuter rush trip time of only 27 minutes to the hustle and bustle of Shibuya in downtown Shibuya-ku, Tokyo.
東急5050系4000番台 東急東横線・みなとみらい線 特急列車 和光市行き 横浜駅に入線シーン
The interior of Car No. 3 on board the 10-car Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 4.12 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "Limited Express" service bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin 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 Tokyu 5050-4000 series EMU, operating as the 4.12 p.m. Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Toyoko Line "Limited Express" service bound for Wakoshi via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, during the boarding process on Track No. 2 at Yokohama Station
After a regional late afternoon commuter rush trip of only 27 minutes from the modern satellite port city of Yokohama, I eventually arrived at Shibuya Station by 4.39 p.m. sharp on Track No. 5. Checking to make sure that I had not left anything behind, I quickly disembarked from the train and caught the closest elevator up to the main Tokyu Toyoko Line, Minatomirai Line & Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line transit concourse prior to safely inserting my used one-way travel ticket into the automated ticketing gates and making my way up to the JR Line ticketing concourse via Shibuya Scramble Square.
Soon enough, I arrived at the JR Line ticketing concourse located close to the South Entrance at Shibuya Station at 4.45 p.m.. Purchasing a one-way ticket to Ikebukuro, I went to check the departure time for the nearest Saikyo Line local train bound for Omiya. According to the departure information panel, the next Saikyo Line local train bound for Omiya would soon depart by 4.57 p.m. from Track No. 3. With that moment, I immediately passed through the ticketing gates and took the escalators up to Tracks No. 3 & 4 in preparation for the journey to Ikebukuro, thus reaching the platforms at 4.50 p.m..
Shibuya Station (Japanese: 渋谷駅; Traditional Chinese: 澀谷車站; Simplified Chinese: 涩谷车站) is a major interchange railway terminal station complex located within the heart of downtown Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan. It mainly caters to commuters traveling between downtown Tokyo and the western and southern suburbs of Tokyo and is the second-busiest railroad terminal station in the world after Shinjuku Station, with approximately 2.5 million passengers passing through the major station complex daily by fiscal 2023. The station currently serves as a central interchange station for the Saikyo Line, Shonan-Shinjuku Line, Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Ginza Line and Hanzomon Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line and Den-en-toshi Line and Keio Inokashira Line.
The station was opened on 1 March 1885 as part of the Yamanote Line and Saikyo Line, with both the Tokyu Toyoko Line and Keio Inokashira Line also serving the major station complex from 28 August 1927 and 1 August 1933 respectively. It even directly hosted the legendary Akita dog, Hachiko, who waited for his deceased owner at the major station complex for almost ten years from 1925 to 1935. From 20 December 1938, the station also became the western terminus area for the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, with the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line and Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line eventually serving the railway station from 7 April 1977 and 1 August 1978 respectively.
From 14 June 2008, the major station became the southern terminus for the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, with through services to and from the Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line commencing on 16 March 2013. Under this arrangement, the above-ground Tokyu Toyoko Line railway platforms were closed on 15 March 2013 and all train services were shifted underground to allow direct passenger train services to travel to and from the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, with services also running as far as the Tobu Tojo Line and Seibu Lines. From 18 March 2023, through railway services from Shibuya to the Sagami Railway commenced, with services traveling through the Tokyu Shin-yokohama Line and Sotetsu Shin-yokohama Line.
Tracks No. 5 and 6 serving the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line trains bound for Wakoshi, Shinrin-koen and Kotesashi via the Tobo Tojo Line & Seibu Lines at Shibuya Station during the late afternoon rush hours
The Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line transit concourse at Shibuya Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Walking through the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line transit concourse leading to the automated ticketing gates near the Shibuya Hikarie Entrance at Shibuya Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Approaching the automated ticketing gates in the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line transit concourse near the Shibuya Hikarie Entrance at Shibuya Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Bypassing the automated ticketing machines in the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Shibuya Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Approaching the escalators connecting to Shibuya Scramble Square and the JR Line ticketing concourse near the South Entrance from the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Shibuya Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Taking the escalators up to Shibuya Scramble Square and the JR Line ticketing concourse near the South Entrance from the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Shibuya Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Bypassing Shibuya Scramble Square close to the JR Line ticketing concourse located near the South Entrance at Shibuya Station during the late afternoon rush hours
The JR Line ticketing concourse near the South Entrance at Shibuya Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Walking through the JR Line interchange transit concourse leading to the platforms at Shibuya Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Finally arriving at Tracks No. 3 and 4 at Shibuya Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Tracks No. 3 and 4 serving the Saikyo Line and Shonan-Shinjuku Line trains at Shibuya Station during the late afternoon rush hours
The overhead departure information panel for Saikyo Line & Shonan-Shinjuku Line trains departing from Track No. 3 at Shibuya Station indicating that the next Saikyo Line local train bound for Omiya would depart at 4.57 p.m.
Overlooking the Yamanote Line platforms from Track No. 3 at Shibuya Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Track No. 3 at Shibuya Station shortly before the 4.57 p.m. Saikyo Line local service bound for Omiya arrived at the station
After spending barely five minutes of anticipated waiting on the platform, a 10-car E233 series EMU, directly operating as the 4.57 p.m. Saikyo Line local service bound for Omiya, arrived at Shibuya Station securely by 4.56 p.m. on Track No. 3. Once the train doors were opened, I instantly boarded the train via Car No. 3 and settled into a nearby vacant seat for the short and routine late afternoon commuter rush trip duration of 11 minutes to the hustle and bustle of Ikebukuro located in the center of downtown Toshima-ku, Tokyo.
Once the clock struck exactly 4.57 p.m. sharp, all the train doors were closed, and the Saikyo Line local service soon pulled out of Shibuya Station for the rest of its regional late afternoon commuter trip of 1 hour 29 minutes from Shin-kiba to Omiya via the Rinkai Line. I was safely on my way for a routine and rapid late afternoon commuter rush trip duration of approximately 11 minutes to the busy and lively hustle and bustle of the Ikebukuro district in the center of downtown Toshima-ku, Tokyo.
A 10-car E233 series EMU, operating as the 4.57 p.m. Saikyo Line local service bound for Omiya, arriving at Shibuya Station on Track No. 3
The interior of Car No. 3 on board the 10-car E233 series EMU, operating as the 4.57 p.m. Saikyo Line local service bound for Omiya, during the boarding process on Track No. 3 at Shibuya Station
Finally departing Shibuya Station
Bypassing a large commercial building in Shibuya 1-chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, shortly after departing Shibuya Station
The route guidance information panel above the train doors on board Car No. 3 of the 10-car E233 series EMU, operating as the 4.57 p.m. Saikyo Line local service bound for Omiya, indicating that the next station is Shinjuku
Bypassing the original station building of Harajuku Station in Jingumae 1-chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, between Shibuya and Shinjuku Stations
Intersecting with the Chuo-Sobu Line tracks in Sendagaya 4-chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, as the train approaches Shinjuku Station
Overlooking several downtown infrastructure in Sendagaya 5-chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, as the train approaches Shinjuku Station
Making a brief stop at Shinjuku Station
Bypassing some downtown infrastructure and road intersections in Kabukicho 1-chome, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, shortly after departing Shinjuku Station
Bypassing some residential housing apartments in Mejiro 2-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, between Shinjuku and Ikebukuro Stations
Overlooking several downtown infrastructure in Minami-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, as the train approaches Ikebukuro Station
Finally arriving at Ikebukuro Station
After a regional late afternoon commuter rush trip of only 11 minutes from the local hustle and bustle of the Shibuya district in downtown Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, I soon arrived at Ikebukuro Station by around 5.08 p.m. on Track No. 4. Checking to see that I had not left anything behind, I disembarked from the train and caught the nearest elevator down to the JR Line interchange transit concourse before proceeding to the JR Line ticketing gates situated between the East and West Entrance of the station and safely inserting my used one-way ticket into one of the automated ticketing gates.
Given that I was already starting to feel rather hungry at this point, I knew that I would have to find a suitable restaurant that would suite my tasting palettes for dinner. Without wasting anymore time, I departed the JR Line ticketing concourse at Ikebukuro Station at 5.15 p.m. and walked through the streets of both Nishi-ikebukuro 1-chome and Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, in search of a nearby restaurant for dinner. Due to the heavy downpours, I was glad to have brought along an umbrella to shield myself from the rains that early evening.
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.
Tracks No. 3 and 4 serving the Saikyo Line trains bound for Omiya and Yamanote Line Outer Loop trains bound for Ueno, Akihabara and Tokyo at Ikebukuro Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Walking through the JR Line interchange transit concourse at Ikebukuro Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Approaching the South JR Line ticketing gates located between the East and West Entrances in the JR Line interchange transit concourse at Ikebukuro Station during the late afternoon rush hours
Walking along the streets of Nishi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, shortly after exiting Ikebukuro Station on a damp and rainy summer's late afternoon
Bypassing the Global Ring Theater entertainment complex located in Nishi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a damp and rainy summer's late afternoon
Bypassing Izakaya Isshin Ikebukuro (居酒屋 一心 池袋) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a damp and rainy summer's late afternoon
Bypassing the Tobu Department Store (Ikebukuro Branch) (東武百貨店 池袋店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 1-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a damp and rainy summer's late afternoon
Walking along the streets of Ikebukuro 2-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a damp and rainy summer's late afternoon
Walking along the small roads and alleys of Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a damp and rainy summer's late afternoon
Finally arriving at 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, on a damp and rainy summer's late afternoon. This particular restaurant was familiar to me as I had eaten dinner here twice before in December 2019 and September 2023
After walking through the central streets of Minami-ikebukuro for not more than approximately 15 minutes from Ikebukuro Station situated in the heart of the Ikebukuro district in downtown Toshima-ku, Tokyo, I finally arrived at a famous 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), safely by exactly 5.30 p.m.. This particular restaurant chain was familiar to me, having eaten dinner here twice before during my past visits to Tokyo.
Heading to the restaurant's main reception counter, I immediately requested for a table for myself for dinner. A restaurant staff waiter then escorted to a vacant table situated at the rear of the restaurant and provided me with the Grand Menu and a glass of iced water for me to make my charcoal barbecue reviews before placing my main dinner meal orders. Once I was ready to eat, another restaurant staff waiter came by to my table to take down my major meal orders for the local charcoal barbecue (焼肉; yakiniku) dinner later on.
For the main course, 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).
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 settle down for dinner
The cover page for the Grand 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, chicken and pork sections of the Grand Menu at Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Reviewing the Premium Japanese Black Wagyu beef sections of the Grand Menu at 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 and beef set sections of the Grand Menu at Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Reviewing the beverage menu at Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The portable 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
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 beef large intestines (牛ホルモン 味噌だれ) to be grilled on the portable charcoal barbecue grill later on at 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 portable charcoal barbecue grill later on at 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 portable charcoal barbecue grill later on at 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 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 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 portable charcoal barbecue grill later on at 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 portable charcoal barbecue grill later on at 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) grilling on the portable charcoal barbecue grill at 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 portable charcoal barbecue grill at 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 portable charcoal barbecue grill at 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 portable charcoal barbecue grill at 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 portable charcoal barbecue grill at Ikebukuro Rikkyo-dori Branch (牛角 池袋立教通り店) located in Nishi-ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
The portable charcoal pot equipped with a clean barbecue dining grill in preparation for my next three meat courses later on at 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 portable charcoal barbecue grill at 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 portable charcoal barbecue grill at 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) cut in half on the portable charcoal barbecue grill at 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 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 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 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 portable charcoal barbecue grill at 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 6.25 p.m.. 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 Oakwood Suites Yokohama for a well-earned good night's rest.
With that, I immediately gathered all of my belongings and paid my check before safely departing the restaurant at exactly 6.30 p.m. in the direction leading to Ikebukuro Station. Soon enough, I eventually reached the main entrance to the major Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade by 6.35 p.m.. Bypassing several retail outlet stores, I headed to the automatic ticketing machines in the public JR Line ticketing concourse area between the East and West Entrances of the main station to purchase a one-way JR Line ticket bound for Shibuya.
Upon purchasing my one-way JR Line ticket to Shibuya, I went to check the departure time for the next Saikyo Line local train bound for Shin-kiba via the Rinkai Line. According to major the departure information screens, the next Saikyo Line local train service bound for Shin-kiba via the Rinkai Line would depart at 6.56 p.m. from Track No. 1. With that moment, I promptly passed through the JR Line ticketing gates and took the nearest escalators up to Tracks No. 1 & 2 in preparation for the journey over to Shibuya, thus reaching the major station platforms safely at 6.50 p.m..
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 damp and rainy 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 damp and rainy summer's early evening
Approaching the entrance to the Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade located along Ikebukuro 2-chome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, on a damp and rainy summer's early evening
Walking through the Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade on the way to the JR Line ticketing concourse located between the East and West Entrances at Ikebukuro Station during the early evening rush hours
Approaching the escalators and stairway connecting to the JR Line ticketing concourse located between the East and West Entrances at Ikebukuro Station in the Echika Ikebukuro underground shopping arcade during the early evening rush hours
Finally entering the JR Line ticketing concourse located between the East and West Entrances at Ikebukuro Station during the early evening rush hours
Stopping at the automated ticketing machines to purchase a one-way railway ticket to Shibuya in the JR Line ticketing concourse located between the East and West Entrances at Ikebukuro Station during the early evening rush hours
Approaching the JR Line ticketing gates in the JR Line ticketing concourse located between the East and West Entrances at Ikebukuro Station during the early evening rush hours
Walking through the JR Line interchange transit concourse at Ikebukuro Station during the early evening rush hours
Finally arriving at Tracks No. 1 and 2 at Ikebukuro Station during the early evening rush hours
The overhead departure information panel for Saikyo Line trains departing from Track No. 1 at Ikebukuro Station indicating that the next Saikyo Line local train bound for Shin-kiba via the Rinkai Line would depart at 6.56 p.m.
Tracks No. 1 and 2 serving the Saikyo Line trains bound for Shin-kiba via the Rinkai Line and Shonan-Shinjuku Line trains bound for Ofuna, Odawara and Zushi at Ikebukuro Station during the early evening rush hours
Track No. 1 at Ikebukuro Station shortly before the 6.56 p.m. Saikyo Line local service bound for Shin-kiba via the Rinkai Line arrived at the station
After spending almost five minutes of anticipated waiting along Tracks No. 1 and 2, a 10-car TWR 70-000 series EMU, securely functioning as the 6.56 p.m. Saikyo Line local train service bound for Shin-kiba via the Rinkai Line, finally arrived at Ikebukuro Station at exactly 6.55 p.m. on Track No. 1. Once all the train doors were opened, I boarded the train via Car No. 3 and settled down for the short and routine major early evening commuter rush trip of only 10 minutes to the modern and colossal hustle and bustle of Shibuya situated in the center of downtown Shibuya-ku, Tokyo.
Once the clock struck exactly 6.56 p.m., all the main train doors were directly closed, and the Saikyo Line local train finally pulled out of Ikebukuro Station for the rest of its routine early evening commuter rush trip of only 1 hour 29 minutes from Kawagoe to Shin-kiba via the Rinkai Line. I was soon en route for a short and routine major early evening commuter rush trip of not more than approximately 10 minutes to the really modern and colossal hustle and bustle of the Shibuya district in downtown Shibuya-ku, Tokyo.
A 10-car TWR 70-000 series EMU, operating as the 6.56 p.m. Saikyo Line local service bound for Shin-kiba via the Rinkai Line, arriving at Ikebukuro Station on Track No. 1
The interior of Car No. 3 on board the 10-car TWR 70-000 series EMU, operating as the 6.56 p.m. Saikyo Line local service bound for Shin-kiba via the Rinkai Line, during the boarding process on Track No. 1 at Ikebukuro Station
Finally departing Ikebukuro Station
The route guidance information panel above the train doors on board Car No. 3 of the 10-car TWR 70-000 series EMU, operating as the 6.56 p.m. Saikyo Line local service bound for Shin-kiba via the Rinkai Line, indicating that the next station is Shinjuku
Making a brief stop at Shinjuku Station
Bypassing some downtown infrastructure in Yoyogi 1-chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, shortly after departing Shinjuku Station
Bypassing Harajuku Station
Bypassing some downtown infrastructure in Jinnan 1-chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, as the train approaches Shibuya Station
Finally arriving at Shibuya Station
After a regional early evening commuter trip time of just 10 minutes from the modern and lively hustle and bustle of the major Ikebukuro district in downtown Toshima-ku, Tokyo, I arrived at Shibuya Station at 7.06 p.m. on Track No. 4. Checking to make sure that I did not leave anything behind, I disembarked from the train and headed down to the JR Line interchange transit concourse before inserting my used one-way JR Line railway ticket into the automated ticketing gates near the South Entrance before safely catching some long escalators down to the main Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse.
Soon enough, I was inside the central Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse at Shibuya Station by exactly 7.15 p.m.. Heading to the automated ticketing machines, I quickly went to purchase a single major railway ticket to Bashamichi Station for a price of ¥510 (S$4.60). Once I had purchased my one-way railway ticket to Bashamichi Station, I went to check the main departure time for the next Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line Commuter Express train bound for Motomachi-chukagai that I could catch.
According to the departure information screens, the next Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line Commuter Express train bound for Motomachi-chukagai that I could catch would soon depart at 7.45 p.m. from Track No. 3. Without wasting anymore time, I securely took an elevator down to Tracks No. 3 and 4 in preparation for the continuing evening railway trip back to Bashamichi Station, thus reaching the platforms safely at 7.20 p.m. sharp. However, due to a major railway incident that occurred somewhere on the Tobu Tojo Line or the Seibu Lines, train services would be delayed by approximately two to four minutes that evening.
Tracks No. 3 and 4 serving the Saikyo Line and Shonan-Shinjuku Line trains at Shibuya Station during the early evening rush hours
Walking through the JR Line interchange transit concourse at Shibuya Station during the early evening rush hours
Walking through the JR Line ticketing concourse near the South Entrance at Shibuya Station during the early evening rush hours
Approaching the escalators connecting to the Tokyo Metro and Tokyu Line ticketing concourses near Shibuya Scramble Square at Shibuya Station during the early evening rush hours
Finally arriving at the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tokyo Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse near the Shibuya Hikarie Entrance at Shibuya Station during the early evening rush hours
Approaching the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing gates in the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line ticketing concourse near the Shibuya Hikarie Entrance at Shibuya Station during the early evening rush hours
Approaching the elevator connecting down to Tracks No. 3 and 4 from the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line transit concourse at Shibuya Station during the early evening rush hours
Finally arriving at the Tokyu Toyoko Line, Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Shin-yokohama Line station platforms at Shibuya Station during the early evening rush hours
Overlooking Tracks No. 5 and 6 serving the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line trains bound for Wakoshi, Shinrin-koen and Kotesashi via the Tobu Tojo Line & Seibu Lines from Tracks No. 3 and 4 at Shibuya Station during the early evening rush hours
The overall view of the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line station platforms at Shibuya Station during the early evening rush hours
A 10-car Sotetsu 20000 series EMU, operating as the delayed 7.24 p.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Tokyu Shin-yokohama Line "Express" service bound for Shonandai via the Sotetsu Shin-yokohama Line & Sotetsu Main Line, arriving at Shibuya Station on Track No. 3
A 10-car Tokyo Metro 10000 series EMU, operating as the delayed 7.30 p.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Commuter Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, arriving at Shibuya Station on Track No. 3
An 8-car Tokyu 5050 series EMU, operating as the delayed 7.32 p.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line local service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, arriving at Shibuya Station on Track No. 3
Tracks No. 3 and 4 serving the Tokyu Toyoko Line, Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Shin-yokohama Line trains bound for Motomachi-chukagai and Shin-yokohama at Shibuya Station during the early evening rush hours
An 8-car Tokyo Metro 17000 series EMU, operating as the delayed 7.40 p.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line local service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, arriving at Shibuya Station on Track No. 3
The overhead departure information panel for the Tokyu Toyoko Line, Minatomirai Line & Tokyu Shin-yokohama Line trains bound for Motomachi-chukagai and Shin-yokohama departing from Tracks No. 3 and 4 at Shibuya Station indicating that the next Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Commuter Express" train bound for Motomachi-chukagai would depart at 7.45 p.m., albeit with a delay of approximately two to four minutes due to an incident somewhere along the Tobu Tojo Line or the Seibu Lines
Track No. 3 at Shibuya Station shortly before the delayed 7.45 p.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Commuter Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai arrived at the station
After spending approximately 25 minutes of anticipated waiting around the platforms, a 10-car Tokyo Metro 10000 series EMU, operating as the delayed 7.45 p.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line Commuter Express railroad service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, finally arrived at Shibuya Station at precisely 7.46 p.m. sharp on Track No. 3, approximately two minutes behind schedule. Once the train doors were opened, I boarded the train via Car No. 5 and safely secured a vacant seat for the evening commuter rush trip of 37 minutes to Bashamichi Station situated in Honcho, Naka-ku, Yokohama.
Once the station clock struck around 7.47 p.m., all the doors were securely closed, and the delayed Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line Commuter Express train service finally pulled out of Shibuya Station for the rest of its routine early evening commuter rush trip time of 1 hour 42 minutes from Kawagoe-shi to Motomachi-chukagai. However, due to railway the speed limitations caused by the delays on the other through major railway lines, the return journey was slightly prolonged by approximately two minutes.
東京メトロ10000系 東急東横線・みなとみらい線 通勤特急 元町・中華街行き 渋谷駅に入線シーン
The interior of Car No. 5 on board the 10-car Tokyo Metro 10000 series EMU, operating as the delayed 7.45 p.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Commuter Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, during the boarding process on Track No. 3 at Shibuya Station
The route guidance information panel above the train doors on board Car No. 5 of the 10-car Tokyo Metro 10000 series EMU, operating as the delayed 7.45 p.m. Tokyu Toyoko Line & Minatomirai Line "Commuter Express" service bound for Motomachi-chukagai, during the boarding process on Track No. 3 at Shibuya Station
After a routine early evening commuter return trip of just 39 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Shibuya in downtown Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, I finally arrived at Bashamichi Station safely at 8.26 p.m. on Track No. 2, which was approximately four minutes behind schedule. Checking to make sure that there was nothing left behind on board, I disembarked from the train and caught the nearest escalator up to transit concourse lobby before directly inserting my used one-way ticket into the automatic main ticketing gates and securely making my way to the Yokohama Kitanaka Knot Entrance of the station building.
Soon enough, I finally arrived at the first floor major entrance area to the Oakwood Suites Yokohama by 8.35 p.m.. Heading to the express elevator lobby, I securely caught the nearest express elevator up to the main hotel lobby located on the 46th floor before eventually changing to one of the main hotel elevators back to my assigned Room No. 4810 situated on the 48th floor. The entire walk to my assigned Room No. 4810 located on the 48th floor took not more than approximately five minutes that night.
The overall view of the station platforms located on the third basement level at Bashamichi Station during the evening rush hours
Walking through the main transit concourse located on the second basement level at Bashamichi Station during the evening rush hours
About to pass through the ticketing gates in the main transit concourse located on the second basement level at Bashamichi Station during the evening rush hours
Bypassing the automated ticketing machines in the main station ticketing concourse located on the second basement level at Bashamichi Station during the evening rush hours
Proceeding to the escalators connecting to the first basement level from the second basement level at Bashamichi Station during the evening rush hours
Approaching the first basement level passageway leading to the Yokohama Kitanaka Knot Entrance at Bashamichi Station during the evening rush hours
About to take the escalators up to the Yokohama Kitanaka Knot Entrance at Bashamichi Station during the evening rush hours
Overlooking several retail outlet stores in the Kitanaka Brick & White commercial and cultural shopping district from the Yokohama Kitanaka Knot Entrance at Bashamichi Station at night
The Yokohama Kitanaka Knot Entrance at Bashamichi Station at night
Approaching the first floor entrance leading to the Oakwood Suites Yokohama and The Tower Yokohama Kitanaka in the Kitanaka Brick & White commercial and cultural shopping district at night
Finally arriving at the first floor hotel entrance to the Oakwood Suites Yokohama at night
Approaching the express elevator lobby located near the first floor hotel entrance to the Oakwood Suites Yokohama at night
Bypassing the observation area near the main hotel lobby located on the 46th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama at night
The main hotel lobby located on the 46th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama at night
Approaching the hotel guest elevator lobby in the main hotel lobby located on the 46th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama at night
Finally arriving back at my assigned Room No. 4810 located on the 48th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama
Overlooking Tokyo Bay and several downtown infrastructure from my assigned Room No. 4810 located on the 48th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama shortly after I had returned for the night
One additional view of my assigned Room No. 4810 located on the 48th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama shortly after I had returned for the night
After a routine and simple evening walk of approximately five minutes from the Yokohama Kitanaka Knot Entrance at Bashamichi Station, I soon arrived at my assigned major hotel Room No. 4810 situated on the 48th floor at the Oakwood Suites Yokohama at 8.40 p.m.. Placing all of my used daily clothes into the washing machine to be washed, I promptly went to have a hot and refreshing shower before changing into my daily pajamas and safely setting up all my portable electronic devices to be charged overnight.
Since I would be heading to Kansai International Airport in the main waters of Osaka Bay in celebration of my 30th birthday, I quickly set my cell phone alarm to wake me up by around four o' clock early the next morning. I then took the opportunity to get in touch with my family to let them know that everything was going alright in Japan. Upon ensuring that all my electronic devices were properly charging in preparation for the next day, I eventually turned in at ten o' clock for a well-earned good night's sleep.
This officially brings the first central section of my solo 11-day mid-summer vacation journey up to eastern Japan in celebration of my 30th birthday in June 2025 to a formal conclusion. As with all other existing major overseas trip reports featured on this blog site, 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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