It’s NOT your everyday Starbucks! Tokyo Food, Shibuya and Airport Lounge, Around the World 3/23
#tokyo #starbucksreserveroastery #cherryblossom #shibuya #tokyoshopping #chickenramen #naritaairport #prioritypass #airportlounges #tonkatsu
Morning: Nakameguro Coffee & Subway Start
Subway Ride: Begin your day navigating Tokyo’s efficient subway system. Take a ride on the Tokyo Metro or Tokyu lines to Nakameguro Station. This trendy neighborhood is your first stop.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo: A short walk from the station (around 10-15 minutes) brings you to the stunning Starbucks Reserve Roastery. Located at 2 Chome-19-23 Aobadai, Meguro City, this multi-story coffee haven opens bright and early at 7:00 AM. Arrive early to soak in the atmosphere – watch the beans roast, explore the Teavana tea floor, browse the Princi Bakery, and perhaps grab a unique coffee creation. Allow a good hour or two here, depending on crowds and how much you want to explore.
Mid-day: Shibuya Buzz & Chicken Ramen Fix
Journey to Shibuya: Hop back on the Tokyu Toyoko Line at Nakameguro for a very short ride (just one stop) to the electric energy of Shibuya Station.
Shibuya Department Stores & Scramble: Emerge into the heart of Shibuya. Witness the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing from a viewpoint (like the station or nearby buildings). Then, dive into the shopping scene. You have plenty of choices:
Seibu Shibuya: A large, classic department store offering fashion, cosmetics, and food halls.
Shibuya Loft: Seven floors dedicated to lifestyle goods, stationery, unique souvenirs, and gadgets.
Tokyu Department Store (Honten): The flagship store, offering a more relaxed shopping experience (a short walk from the station).
Explore other complexes like Shibuya Hikarie or Shibuya Scramble Square for more modern shops and views.
Lunch at Kageyamarou: Time for your specific ramen request! Head within Shibuya Station complex (specifically the Tokyu Food Show area, accessible via Mark City East building, address: 1-12-1 Dogenzaka) to find Kageyamarou (蔭山樓). This branch makes it super convenient. Order their specialty – rich Toripaitan (chicken broth) ramen. It’s known for its flavorful soup, sometimes enhanced with premium ingredients.
Afternoon/Evening: Airport Bound & Pre-Flight Rituals
Train to Narita Airport (NRT): After lunch and perhaps a final look around Shibuya, head to the JR section of Shibuya Station to catch the Narita Express (N’EX). Purchase your reserved seat ticket (required for N’EX) for the direct journey to Narita Airport. The ride takes approximately 80-90 minutes. Plan to leave Shibuya allowing plenty of time – factor in the train ride plus at least 3 hours at Narita before your international flight to Busan.
Dinner – Pork Chops (Tonkatsu) at Narita: Once you arrive at Narita Airport (confirm if your flight leaves from Terminal 1 or Terminal 2), find a spot for dinner before you go through security and immigration. For pork chops, look for a Tonkatsu restaurant:
Terminal 1: Tonkatsu Shinjuku Saboten (Central Building, 4th Floor) is a reliable choice specializing in deep-fried pork cutlets.
Terminal 2: TONKATSU INABA WAKO (Main Building, 4th Floor) is listed, or check other Japanese restaurants on the 4th floor which may offer Tonkatsu or similar pork dishes. Note: Restaurant locations can change, confirm on airport directories.
Priority Pass Lounge Visit: After dinner, proceed through security and passport control. Once airside (in the departure area), use your Priority Pass to access a lounge:
Terminal 1: Look for the I.A.S.S Superior Lounge -NOA- (near Gate 26, 3rd Floor).
Terminal 2: Look for the I.A.S.S Superior Lounge -KoCoo- (4th Floor).
These lounges offer drinks, snacks, seating, and Wi-Fi. Relax here for a bit before your flight (check the maximum stay duration, often 2 hours).
Waiting for Busan Flight: After your lounge time, head to your designated gate, ready to board your flight to Busan, South Korea!
Important Notes:
Pace Yourself: This is a very full day! Be prepared for lots of walking and potentially rushing between locations. Prioritize what’s most important.
Luggage: Figure out your luggage situation. Using station coin lockers or a luggage forwarding service might be necessary.
Check Times: Verify opening hours for stores and restaurants, and especially your flight time and check-in requirements. Check the Narita Express schedule from Shibuya.
Terminal: Double-check which Narita terminal your flight to Busan departs from (likely T1 or T2) to plan your dinner and lounge stops correctly.
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