MG
Yes there are lockers at major train stations.
Have as much liquid cash on hand as possible. It's true that
many places don't take CCs but it's gotten better over the years.
When I lived there from 96-99, big dept stores didn't accept CCs,
so I was pleasantly surprised when I moved back there in 03 that
many places started accepting that form of payment. However, many
mom and pop stores still don't.
Here are some things that you must try:
Mini stop (mini mart), try their soft ice cream. It's divine!
Just ask for banilla/choko-laht softo ai-su-ku-reem. About 120
yen.
Mr Donut. My fave there is the angel cream for about 100yen.
For ramen, apart from the usual sho-yu or miso, try the funky
ones like kim-chee ramen or milk ramen. Nyum!
Another nice place to eat at is Saizeriya. They serve Italian
food, Japanese style. Try the garlic foccacia.
Boarding the trains there is nothing like the free for all in
Singapore. People get and stay in orderly lines. While in Osaka,
you'll find some cars are reserved for women only during peak
hours. You'll know from the markings on the platform, just which
trains are.
While in Yokohama, you might like to visit the Curry Museum.
It's an interesting place. At the shopping centre within
Yokohama station, follow the lovely aroma of freshly baked
mini croissants. You must try! The Japanese are confectionery
masters. Food court food is to die for! There is a Sogo just
within Yokohama station, if you're lucky enough to be there around
lunch time, go see the offerings. You can ask for samples which
they will gladly provide.
Take the JR line to Sakuragi-cho station. There is an
information desk just outside the station in a semi circle one
storey annex. Ask for an English tourist map there. A good place to
eat nearby is Garlic Joe's. There is also a nice shop that sells
yummy muffins. The name of the store is Mrs Elizabeth's
Muffins.
There is no tipping at restaurants so no worries there. Also,
before you eat, you should wipe your hands with the wet nap
provided.
