May 31, 2025

Our day began at Narita Airport, where Anh and I started the journey to our hotel. The culture shock was immediate, right out of the gate, due to the sheer convenience and hospitality the airport offered. For starters, the staff were incredibly kind and helpful, whether we were exchanging money, searching for information desks, locating airport-specific stamps, or finding the booth that sold Keisei Skyliner tickets.

Exchanging money was quick and easy. Although the conversion rate wasn't as favorable as other locations, it was a convenient way to get our hands on physical Japanese bills and coins. The information desks were just as helpful, with workers patiently guiding us with directions. After a long flight, the friendly and helpful staff were a blessing in such a large and complex airport. Speaking of directions, they also led us to an information desk that housed two exclusive airport stamps. Since we planned on collecting stamps throughout our time in Japan, this was the perfect start to our collection.

Finally, the staff's assistance in finding the Keisei Skyliner, our chosen mode of transport into the heart of Tokyo, was invaluable. These brief but pleasant interactions served as my first taste of the friendliness and hospitality of the Japanese people. They were kind and patient, even though we weren't fluent in Japanese, and they efficiently helped us navigate the airport.

Beyond the exceptional staff, the airport itself was visually captivating. From the numerous "Welcome to Japan" signs to the countless shops and vending machines, it was easy to get sidetracked and explore. The vending machines, scattered throughout the airport, offered a small glimpse into the vast number we would soon discover all over Japan.