2024 The Next Station - Akihabara

Ever since deciding to bring my anime-loving child on a trip to Japan, I hesitated for a long time between joining a tour group and traveling independently. After researching guides on various travel websites and considering my child's preferences, I finally decided on independent travel and chose to visit only Tokyo. First, I applied for a visa through Ctrip's self-operated visa service. The required documents were clearly listed. After passing the online pre-review, I mailed the documents, which saved me the trouble of correcting mistakes and resending. The visa was issued in five days, which was very fast. Once the visa was issued, the top priority was to check hotels and flights. I chose the Ueno Shin-Okachimachi Hotel for accommodation. Although the hotel was small, it was quiet and conveniently located, close to Akihabara and Asakusa—even within walking distance. After booking the flights, we began our five-day, four-night anime-themed trip. We flew directly from Guangzhou to Tokyo's Haneda Airport. On the plane, paper immigration cards and customs declaration forms were distributed. However, China Southern sometimes runs out of paper forms, so you have to scan a QR code to apply online. I recommend filling out the immigration card online (Visit Japan Web) at home before departure to generate a QR code. After landing, you can smoothly pass through customs with everyone else—very convenient. Our first stop was Sensoji Temple. It took about 25 minutes to walk from the hotel. After passing through the snack street, we arrived at Kaminarimon Gate. Tourists from all over the world were taking photos. My child didn't want to have their picture taken, so we just made a quick visit. The next station: Akihabara. It is a paradise for my child. I highly recommend the Akihabara Hall, which houses various small shops selling model kits, figurines, game discs, and more. My anime-loving child was dazzled upon entering and wandered among the many figurines and models. BIG CAMERA also has a rich selection—electronics downstairs and various figurines, models, and even drugstore cosmetics upstairs. There are also many second-hand shops here. Anime fans can spend a whole day without getting bored, always finding what they want. Odaiba, located on Tokyo Bay, is also a great place for shopping and eating. Along the waterfront promenade, you can enjoy the sea view and see the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower. There is also a small Statue of Liberty in the park, and the Gundam in front of DiverCity shopping mall attracts many Gundam fans to take photos. How could you come to Japan for the first time without visiting Mount Fuji? To save trouble, I booked a Mount Fuji one-day tour. The Chinese-speaking driver picked us up and dropped us off at the hotel, which was very convenient. The weather was cooperative, and we got to see the true face of Mount Fuji. Enjoying the cool mountain breeze, all my worries melted away. Every trip leaves some regrets. I didn't manage to reserve SHIBUYA SKY, so I'll save it for next time. Coming again next year might bring a different mood.