Day 1: From Bali to Japan – The Beginning of an Adventure

Friday, March 8th, 2024. After almost half a year of waiting, getting ready, dealing with ups and downs, and making endless lists, the day we’ve been waiting for is finally here. Honestly, I had my doubts about whether we’d actually go. What worried me the most was our health. The weather hadn’t been great lately, with rain in the morning followed by scorching heat in the afternoon. I was afraid we’d get sick and not be able to enjoy the trip. I didn’t want this meticulously planned and expensive journey to go awry.

Our adventure began early in the morning as our flight was scheduled for departure at 8:15 AM. We arrived at the Ngurah Rai International Airport around 5:30 AM, we wasted no time, quickly checked in, and enjoyed a quick breakfast before proceeding through immigration.

During the immigration process, coincidentally I met my KKN friend. He was on the same flight to Hong Kong. It was a nice surprise, had a bit regret not snapping a photo with him though.

As noon neared, our plane touched down in Hong Kong around 12:55 PM, marking the start of our exciting journey to Japan. Hong Kong Airport is one of the largest airports. With only a brief two-hour break, we didn’t waste any time. We hurried to the transfer desk, went through security check, and then grabbed a quick lunch and break in the gate area.

At exactly 2:55 PM, we boarded our flight from Hong Kong Airport to Tokyo Narita International Airport. However, our arrival was delayed a bit because the airport was being cleaned. But despite the wait, we were filled with excitement at the thought of finally setting foot in Japan.

When we landed at Narita Airport around 8:05 PM, we went through immigration. We had a bit of trouble communicating about where we were staying, but with the help of Google Translate, we managed to explain that we were staying with a friend for day 1.

After getting through immigration and checking our bags and security, we connected to the airport’s Wi-Fi to call our friends. It was so nice to see them and catch up. With their help, we quickly got our pre-booked Tokyo Wide Pass tickets on JR Ticket Office, ready to explore Japan.

Before leaving the airport, I stopped at the 7-Bank ATM to get some Yen first since I didn’t have enough local currency. With money sorted, although we were a bit hungry, we decided to wait until we reached Ibaraki Prefecture, which was a 1.5-hour drive from Narita Airport.

Feeling the cold air outside the airport, we estimated it to be around 8 degrees Celsius. We got into the car and headed to Ibaraki.

Before we arrived at the house, my friend bought dinner for us. Since it was already 11 PM and we were exhausted from the long journey, we decided to take the dinner away to house.

When we arrived at our friends’ house, we were amazed by its beauty. The Japanese-style decor, along with its simple yet perfect technology, made it feel truly special.

We had a cozy dinner around the Kotatsu table, feeling grateful for his hospitality and eager for the adventures awaiting us in Japan.

Japan truly is remarkable. The simple yet perfect technology here allows us to turn the lamp on and off without even getting up from the bed. The futon are really comfortable and warm.

Day 2: Tokyo Adventures and Shopping for Warm Clothes

First morning in Japan OHAYOU GOZAIMASU! / おはようございます!!!!

We are ready for the next adventure. Here are some photos in the morning

Tokyo was cold. Our outfit doesn’t meet the standard. We went to some store to buy Warm Clothes with Okubo san and Atsushi San. We forgot to took picture during shopping time

We out of time, so we took a take away breakfast in McDonald’s  . Planned to take a breakfast on the train. By the way, we just realized they didn’t provide sauce in the package, which we a little shock since in Indonesia they always provide chili & tomato sauce.

We headed to Tokyo city center. We started from Katsuta Station then will stop at Ueno Station.

First time train in Japan. Express train from Ibaraki to Tokyo. We used 3 days Tokyo Wide Pass. The cost was ¥15000 for 3 days that we bought at https://www.jreast.co.jp/multi/en/pass/tokyowidepass.html

After arrived at Ueno Station. Feel amazed, so crowded in Tokyo compare with in Ibaraki. We entrust our suitcase in a paid locker at Ueno Station. Then continue our journey to Shibuya Sky.

The scenery was beautiful. Windy and cold though at the deck, we enjoyed the beautiful sunset from the top.

Before check in to Hotel, we had dinner at Izakaya on Ameya Yokocho Shopping Street.

Heavy luggage, step through upstair, no lift, was a normal thing we did during in Japan.

Head to Asakusa check in at Tavinos Asakusa Hotel. The hotel is small(typical 3 star hotel in Tokyo), but it’s worth the price.

Day 3: Snow rain, Freeze, I love it

Time to enjoy my first snow. Yes, it’s my first time. I can’t wait to feel the snow. I wonder how soft they are?

Day 4: Must visit, Fuji!

Although we are not hike to the mountain, at least we must have a photo in front of her. No Fuji seem like not visiting Japan at all. So I put this as must visit place

Day 5: Disney Sea, but

Not really a luck day today.

Day 6: Sayonara Tokyo

It’s tough day. Last day to see Tokyo. We enjoy around Tokyo in this last day

Day 7: They all so smart

Yes, we will go to Nara today.

Day 8: Food, tradition

Kyoto

Day 9: Japan, Sayonara

It’s hard day. I don’t want to come back. I really enjoy here

Starting out on this adventure made me feel a bunch of different things – like excitement, worry, and uncertainty. I was a bit scared because it was my first time climbing the third highest mountain in Indonesia, and I was going all by myself. Yep, solo hiking.

But you know what? Even though I was on my own, the journey was still super cool. I had fun, met some new friends, and made some really special memories along the way.

The reason I wanted to do this in the first place was because I was so curious and wanted to try something new. I really wanted to see the beauty of Rinjani, face the tough parts of the climb, and meet some awesome new people.

My solo hike to Rinjani mountain was an amazing experience that taught me a lot. It showed me that it’s okay to take on challenges, try new things, and enjoy the journey – no matter what.