After a hassle-free checking in (mainly because it was at such an unearthly hour 3.45am), we boarded the plane uneventfully. We did see a couple of passengers being told to remove their shoes for checking.

Arrived Narita at about 1.45pm but had to wait till 3pm for the Airport Limousine to the hotel. The buses left on time and the staff were generally helpful except that waiting area was smoke-filled and unpleasant. We learned soon enough that there are lots of smokers here in Tokyo.

Traffic was slow in Tokyo but we could take in the sights. Lots & lots of shops, neon signs and bicyles. People riding along the walkway.

Hotel Metropolitan at Ikebukuro was luxurious. Surprisingly most staff could understand and speak English. Very courteous and helpful.

The Room was smallish but comfortable. There is an electric toilet and we found it to be useful and interesting. Wished that we have this at home.

Dinner was at a nearby Ramen shop and The Tokyo Ramen and Gyoza which we ordered were only 860yen in total. And they gave us lots of soft boiled eggs too. Dinner was good. However, the kids were just indignant that they were given Minnie mouse cutlery!

the shop painted yellow was our favourite ramen restaurant, next to Ikebukuro station..

We walked around Tobu and checked out the entrances to the subway. It looked intimidating.

Later, we bought some buns and crackers for supper from a convenience store (Just Point)just opposite the hotel.

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