Tommy Lee from Korea: My 12-Hour Layover in Japan

Introduction

Traveling is always an adventure, but sometimes, the unexpected moments make for the best experiences. As a student from Korea heading to America for my studies, I found myself in Japan with a 12-hour layover at Narita Airport (Terminal 2). Initially, I thought about staying in the airport, waiting for my next flight, and maybe getting some rest. However, I soon realized that this was an opportunity I couldn’t waste.

Japan is one of the most fascinating countries in the world, rich in history, culture, and incredible sights. Even though I had only half a day, I decided to explore Tokyo instead of waiting at the airport. That decision turned my long layover into an unforgettable adventure.

1. Arrival & Decision

We landed at Narita Airport early in the morning, and my parents and I initially planned to wait at the airport for our next flight. After all, 12 hours might seem like a long time, but we considered just relaxing, eating, and walking around the airport.

However, the more I thought about it, the more I realized how boring that would be. Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms, ancient temples, futuristic cities, and amazing food. How could I sit in an airport for 12 hours when a whole new world was right outside?

I pulled out my phone and began searching for layover tour options in Tokyo. I needed a fast, convenient, and reliable service that could pick us up from Narita, take us around the city, and bring us back in time for our next flight.

2. Booking the Tour with Japan Travel Assist Tokyo Layover Tour Haneda Narita

After searching online, I found Japan Travel Assist, a company specializing in layover tours from Narita and Haneda Airports. Their reviews were excellent, and what really impressed me was their quick response.

I contacted them through their website, and within minutes, they replied in perfect English. They even asked if I preferred a Korean-speaking guide, but I chose English because I wanted to practice my language skills.

The entire booking process was smooth and easy. They confirmed all the details, including our pick-up time, itinerary, and special requests. We didn’t have to worry about anything. Shortly after, a comfortable car with an English-speaking guide and driver arrived at Narita to pick us up.

At that moment, I knew we had made the right choice.

3. The Journey to Tokyo Tokyo Layover Tour Haneda Narita

Tokyo is about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Narita Airport, which usually takes around an hour by car.

As we drove toward the city, our guide gave us fascinating information about Japan’s history, culture, and modern life. He explained how Tokyo was once a small fishing village known as Edo before becoming the massive metropolis it is today.

The drive itself was relaxing. We passed through lush green landscapes, traditional Japanese houses, and modern expressways. Soon, we could see the towering skyscrapers of Tokyo in the distance.

4. Exploring Tokyo: Our Itinerary

Japan Travel Assist customized the tour to fit our interests and time constraints. We wanted to see some of Tokyo’s famous landmarks, try Japanese food, and do something unique.

Here’s how our itinerary looked

1. Tokyo Skytree – A Bird’s Eye View of the City

Our first stop was Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan and the second-tallest building in the world (634 meters / 2,080 feet).

As we entered, I could feel the modern and futuristic vibe of the place. Taking the elevator to the observation deck was an experience in itself—the ride was incredibly fast but smooth, and within seconds, we were at the top.

From the observation deck, we had a breathtaking panoramic view of Tokyo. I could see the Sumida River, Mount Fuji in the distance, and the countless buildings and streets below.

Tokyo looked endless, like a city stretching beyond the horizon.

2. Fresh Seafood Lunch – Tasting Japan’s Finest Fish

After enjoying the views from Skytree, we headed to a traditional Japanese restaurant for lunch.

Japan is world-famous for its high-quality seafood, and since my parents love fish, we were excited to try it.

We ordered:

Sushi – A selection of the freshest fish, including tuna, salmon, and sea urchin.

Sashimi – Thinly sliced raw fish, beautifully presented.

Grilled Fish – Perfectly cooked, with a delicious smoky flavor.

The food was unbelievably fresh, and my parents were very impressed. Eating in a traditional Japanese setting with low tables and warm hospitality made the experience even better.

3. Canoeing on a Tokyo River – A Surprise Adventure

After lunch, our guide asked if we were interested in trying something unique. Since I had mentioned earlier that my parents love canoeing, they arranged a special canoe ride on a river in central Tokyo.

This was an unexpected highlight of our tour. Paddling through Tokyo’s waterways, surrounded by a mix of modern skyscrapers and traditional wooden houses, was a surreal experience.

The water was calm, the air was fresh, and for a moment, it felt like we had left the city behind.

Seeing Tokyo from the water gave us a completely different perspective of the city. My parents were thrilled, and I could see how much they enjoyed it.

5. Returning to Narita Airport

Time flew by, and before we knew it, we had to head back to the airport. Our guide made sure we arrived on time, stress-free, and ready for our next flight.

As we drove back to Narita, I reflected on how this unexpected layover turned into one of the most memorable experiences of my life.

6. Why I Recommend Japan Travel Assist

Here’s why I highly recommend Japan Travel Assist to anyone with a layover in Japan:

Fast & Professional Service – Their response time was incredibly quick, and the booking process was easy.

English-Speaking Guides – Perfect for international travelers who don’t speak Japanese.

Customizable Itineraries – They tailored the tour exactly to our interests.

Comfortable Transportation – The car was spacious, clean, and perfect for traveling.

Unique Experiences – From Skytree to canoeing, they provided activities we never expected.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Every Moment

If I had stayed at the airport, I would have missed out on an incredible adventure. Instead, I got to experience Tokyo’s beauty, culture, and food in just a few hours.

For anyone traveling through Japan with a long layover, don’t waste your time sitting at the airport. Step outside, explore, and make the most of your journey.

Thanks to Japan Travel Assist, my 12-hour layover in Japan became a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Would I do it again? Absolutely.

21.05.2025

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