Part 9 - Useful websites if going to Japan

Hokkaido wasn't exactly in the itinerary as we were quite unsure whether JR Pass could be utilized till Hokkaido and from what we understood from the Terms & Conditions, it needs to be a green pass (reserved seats) According to Uncle Chong's advice (Aunt Peggy's hubby - they went to Japan last November) they told us to reserve the seat as soon as we reach Japan - which I did.

A lot of websites were very useful. I just focused on using these few websites and with the updated version of all the Japan's website, the basic information that you need is just within your fingertips.

Tokyo Metro - If you are just going to Tokyo, this provides information on the subway, prices of the passes, the limousine bus from the airport etc.

Japan Rail Pass - this explains clearly on the types of pass, price, how to use etc We've got our Japan Rail Pass for 7days at around RM1100.

Japan Guide - this is exactly what you need to plan out the whole trip. It is as good as any Lonely Planet. Cos it even tells you bus schedules, entrance fees, entrance time, distances. I give it 2 thumbs-up

Online train timetable - this is a very powerful tool as well cos this timetable is exactly the one in Japan and the best part of this website is it can exclude the Nozomi train - which the JR pass can't use. So it is EXTREMELY accurate. I got all this planned out before arriving Japan.

And like I was mentioning, upon arriving in Japan, you can go to any JR counter, "reserve the seat" though it's just an Ordinary Pass and have your tickets ready. If in any case that you've decided to change the date/time, you are supposed to return the tickets (which I didn't do many times:) and you can just ask for the new tickets.

Toyoko Inn - thanks to Aunt Peggy, we found this hotel most reasonable and very worth it. Their selling point is they are pretty close to JR stations and value for money - which I find it true to their words. Most of the rates are around RM320 per nite for 2people. And with that price you get a free breakfast (buffet style but of course limited choices), free internet and depends on some of the branches, you get free dinner too!! Thanks Aunt Peggy for the great discovery...



Chain in Hakodate.....
Our breakfast....The chain we stayed in Hakodate had a free dinner : Curry rice