At first using Tokyo Metro is very confusing. There is so many locations, so many lines and even buying the ticket at the counter machine feels quite overwhelming. That’s on day 1. Just take a look at the picture. It speaks for itself
Now on day 3 I can say it’s great! And actually super easy to get around once one knows how. It makes so much sense because it’s so streamlined. There is one important factor to add to it though: Google Maps.
Through Google Maps I now can use the Tokyo Metro on steroids. There is again a lot of information in the beginning but it’s all the information needed. Step by step it tells me where to get on. How much money I need on my metro ticket, and also what track the train comes at. And as a bonus it even gives the live locations of the metro trains. It’s so powerful altogher and removes the hardcore level of thinking orginally needed. So I used it today to get to a library in the park with bright windows (for coworking from there) then again to eat yummy Japanese burgers in Ginza.
The Starbucks here are also great for coworking. Usually big windows and great locations. What I noticed also is that they don’t ask for people’s names. Provably because that wouldn’t fit Japanese culture to have people’s names called out loud. It’s all so subtle in the culture here. Which is also probably only what I say till I’ll go out for the first time into Japanese night life. Anyhow for now quiet life is the much needed good life for me. Recharging, bringing stuff forward for work to then be able to tackle bigger ventures again.
Also, it’s great to get lost in Tokyo and then find yourself somewhere. Anywhere in the city. It’s possible because there is public transport everywhere and Tokyo and altogether Japan is super safe. So it’s super fun for off-the-beaten track exploring. And then once that craving is satisfied it’s so easy to just take public transport back to the base. (kind of like with the super cheap Uber in Lisbon, Portugal here it’s the metro). Enjoy!! 😁
P.S.: Here is also one more tip – when switching lines and using the individual tickets two tickets are needed.
P.P.S: Here’s one of my favourite late night treats treats. Takoyaki – fried octopus balls from Osaka. And the balls refers to she shape of it to be clear. 😅 it’s very warm and soothing. With mayonnaise and herbs and bonito flakes on top. Mostly sweet flavour. Also, it comes very hot / warm when freshly made. So best to wait a moment before fully enjoying.
