Transportation part 1: Getting to Your Hotel

Upon arriving to Tokyo for the first time, you may begin to feel overwhelmed by the new environment, and not knowing where anything is or where to go. Additionally chances are that you arrived at Narita International Airport. Just in case you didn't know this airport is two hours away from the city. There are a couple of different ways to get to your hotel from the Airport.

Taxi Cab: If you think cabs are expensive in America, imagine riding a Japanese cab for two hours. Our hotel estimated roughly $300 dollars worth for a one way ride to the airport. Needless to say this is too pricy considering the other cheaper alternatives available.

Trains: Yes this is the cheapest way, prices may vary depending how far you are, but for the most part it will be relatively cheap. The only reason I will not recommend the cheapest option is because for first time travelers riding the rails will probably be a little overwhelming. After a long flight the last thing you want is to try to figure out the rail system, and then be stuck trying to find out how to get to your hotel from the rail station. We have found riding Japanese public transportation to be one of the most enjoyable aspects of the trip, but doing it on from the airport may prove too frustrating for first time travelers.

Airport Limousine Service: This is the best option! Before you say, "you must be nuts" let me explain myself. Contrary to the name the limousine service actually consists of buses which travel on predetermined routes, not stretch limos. The service costs 3000 Yen ($30 dollars) per person meaning this will most likely be your most expensive transportation cost, but trust us it is worth every penny. After crossing the last customs guard gate, turn left (its the only way to go) and begin watching for the airport limousine counter on your right. You will notice that like most American Airports this section of the terminal will have rental booths, taxi booths and others of the type. The airport limousine counter will be conspicuously orange and have "airport limousine" written in English. Step up to the counter, greet the employee, and politely name your hotel. The attendants know enough English to know that you want a ticket to your hotel. After paying for your trip you will be directed to the proper exit where you can wait for your bus. The attendant will tell you what number station to wait by, and if confused you can show your ticket to one of the employees announcing each station's departures, and they will show you where to go. A new bus will arrive at each station every 10 to 20 minutes with a different route. Seeing 25 to 30 buses arrive within an hour all on time, will be your first experience of Japanese efficiency.
Once on the bus take a seat, and relax. This will be a long ride. You can take this opportunity to take a nap, read a book, or whatever you do on a long ride. Our recommendation is to enjoy the scenery. This may be the first time you get to see cars driving on the other side of the road. We took time to compare subtle little things like street signs, and different car designs not available in the states. The highway route will cross through various rural towns, which will give you a general idea of how they do country living. Additionally you might notice a few love hotels on the outskirts of town. (Love hotels are not as bad as it sounds, well kinda) You'll ride through industrial parks, and see some of Tokyo's most notable landmarks. Depending on the time of day, you may be able to take some nice pictures too. Once you arrive at the area where you hotel is located a sounds system will come indicating that you are near your destination. Messages will be both in Japanese and English so don't worry about missing your hotel. Once at your hotel the bellhops can help you from there.

I will once again reiterate, that while not the cheapest option the convenience afforded by this service far outweighs the price.

Finding Loli clothes in Tokyo: Part 1

Finding gothic and lolita clothing in Japan is not too hard with a little effort and walking. Most brands like H. Naoto, Putumayo, Baby, the Stars Shine Bright, and Metamorphose Temps de Fille have multiple storefronts scattered in different districts. Of course the most famous district for alternative youth clothing is hands down Harajuku, but elegant gothic lolita shops can still be found in other districts such as Shinjuku.
Since we are all about saving money, this quick article will be focused on finding iconic Takeshita Dori, and most importantly the resale store Closet Child. This store features used clothes sold at a discount, you never know what you will find in the racks as the selection constantly changes based on what is in or out. More importantly, that particular skirt or blouse you weren't able to buy last season may be waiting for you amongst the many racks available. Each floor is categorized according to different styles. This allows lolis who especialize in certain niches to look through only clothes they may wear.
Service overall is good, but keep in mind that this store gets a lot of browsers so all you might get is an "Irrashaimase" when you walk in. Price varies on the condition of the clothes, but expect decent discounts.

Getting there: With a vigilant eye finding this little bargain hunter's paradise is not hard. Since we always recommend using the JR this is how to get there from Harajuku station:

1. After exiting the main gate, cross the street. (If confused follow the crowd, trust me)
2. Once on the other side make a left roughly half a block.
3. You will then hit Takeshita Dori marked by the iconic metallic arch. (They look like flowers)
4. Enter the street and walk roughly half a block, look for Richard's on your left. Closet Child will be on the third floor.

The key to finding this store will be to carefully look at the signs. The letters will be in romanji (roman characters). Also always look towards your left coming from Harajuku station. For some reason there is a building to the left which is also says Closet Child but it's wrong. In fact, if you climb the stairs in this building you will eventually find a hand written sign telling you in English you are in the wrong place. Go Figure!