A big need for the trip

10.17.2023

In 12 days I will board a plane back to the Land of the Rising Sun. The excitement builds everyday, but also the need to get going on my planning and packing. Yesterday, I mapped out my tentative daily itinerary so that on any given day I go sightseeing and shopping in locations that are in the same general area. For example, on my first full day in Japan I will go to Toho Studies and a special Godzilla place in the morning and then go to Mandarake in Shibuya in the evening before heading back to my hotel. This allows me to see as much as I can see on my trip while keeping my travel time between destinations to a minimum.

I set up travel notifications to my financial institutions. This is an important step everyone should make before traveling to Japan in order to avoid account freezing. I was surprised to find 2500 yen in my travel bag from my last trip. When I arrive in Japan, I will make a currency exchange at the Narita airport terminal. But I’m glad have some emergency money if needed. For my daily withdraws, I always rely upon 7-Eleven ATMs, which are the best in my opinion.

I spent time making a detailed list of what I need to pack. I’m still debating whether to get a phone or to carry my old camera. I’m debating whether to take my iPad Air so I can comfortably blog but my iPad Mini can do them. Leaving it home will free up space in my bag. My old camera has the photo resolution and video capabilities I need. But its size and weight make it very unattractive and practical for travel. The latest iPhone would be perfect but just an unnecessary expense. Strike that. As I wrote the last sentence, I made the decision to buy an iPhone 15 during my lunch break. Camera problem is now solved. It has an amazing camera resolution of 48MP and all the room I need for my music. My travel bag is lighter and my daily carry-bag will be more functional without the iPad mini inside. Now I can go all over Tokyo to capture photos and movies that I’ve always dreamt to do. The camera issue is now off my list.

• Tickets
• Passport
• Credit Cards
• Electronics
• Pocket Wi-Fi
• Travel Bag
• Footwear
• Pocket Shaver
• Camera
• Japanese Yen
• Itinerary
• Packing

With my new iPhone in hand supported by a cool gimbal recommended by my friend, I’m revising my sightseeing plan to include familiar places like Tokyo Tower that deserve updated shots. All my major purchases are over. Although I need to assemble toiletries (travel nail clip, hand sanitizer, tissues, etc.), I feel I’m closer to ready as ever. I pray for peace in the world and safe travels. It is a privilege to travel and explore the world. I’m ever so grateful.

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