Travel companion David McDowell and I, having left the Mooks and Motts in Tokyo, took a Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto. These trains are a modern marvel. For trips of this distance it is cheaper and more comfortable than flying. A JR Rail Pass makes it even easier for tourists. Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is a great place to visit. It has just a stark...
I spent my first 3 days alone in my usual spot. Asakusa is a district in the Taito ward of the Metropolis of Tokyo. I discovered a few good hostels here during a trip in 2009. Hotels in Tokyo are expensive, usually around $300 a night. While I can budget, save, and afford such accommodations, I prefer staying at Hostels for 1/10th the price and avoid the opportunity...