For convenience, we decided to stay in Japanese apartment hotel near the UENO station because there is a direct train (Skyliner Express) from Narita Airport to the station. Belly full from meals pre-flight and in-flight, we settle in for the night.

Next day, we went to Denny’s, our go-to-place if we didn’t have time to look around. Our safety net. The menu here is geared towards Japanese taste, although the usual Western fare is available. And food in Japan is reasonable. The price includes tax. No tipping culture. You pay what you see on the menu. Not impressed with Japanese menus from other American chains like McDonald’s.

Belly full again. And a morning walk to lighten the load. We walked through Asakusa, a waterfront neighborhood surrounded by water and immersed in rich traditions. 

Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), entrance gate leading to the Sensō-ji temple. The giant red lantern is 3.9 meters tall and 3.3 meters wide, and weighs approximately 700 kilograms (1,500 lb).

Even though Japan never had a mask mandate where it was compulsory (by law) to wear masks throughout the pandemic (the government only recommended), the people take it upon themselves to wear masks. Most still do (often it is the foreign tourists who don’t). Even after the government recommended it isn’t necessary. It is a different culture here. We wear masks as a courtesy to our Japanese friends. We are guests in their country. One gets used to it quite quickly especially when there is a chill in the air.