@8:03 PM
So it was that I started out to Japan, somewhat apprehensively, despite my unconcerned facade. Let’s face it, who will not be at least a little frightened at the prospect? Going there alone, with only two weeks of mental and material preparation, a pitiful smattering of Japanese linguistics, with only a vague idea of where to go...
My parents will like to argue that I could have done more preparation. At least I could have booked my accommodation! However, the “on the move” planning style is very much a necessity, especially for bicycle touring. There are so many factors you have to consider as circumstances surface: rain, road conditions, terrain, personal fatigue, seasonal conditions... The very first day is already a proof of this, as I fundamentally changed the plan. Originally I was to take the train to Tokyo to store the bike box at Junying’s place, because I planned to use the bike box to transport the bike back to Singapore. However, I also knew that SIA might accept boxless bikes (which I confirmed at Changi Airport), so the box suddenly became a liability. I decided to abandon it at Narita, set the bicycle up at Narita, and cycle into Tokyo instead.
My first look at Japan
Setting up the bicycle
As I was about to discover, Japanese roads tend to have very narrow shoulders, and since most of the provincial roads have only two lanes, it became highly recommended to cycle on the pedestrian whenever possible to avoid the monster trucks that seem to be everywhere.
Narrow roads
My first meal! Miso Ramen at 420 yen!
En route to Tokyo
One of the primary problems of “on the go” planning eventually surfaced: I arrived in Tokyo late, very late, at about 5.30pm in Shinjyuku. There were no reservations made as I had planned to arrive early for a hostel spot (remember, I was supposed to take the train!). Since check-ins was only till 6pm, it essentially limited my accommodation options.
Junying’s room is a fantastic example of what not to do to your room. Dust was everywhere on the floor! Clumps of dust were gathered in the corners, under the bed, even on the door sill of the bathroom! Even now, I’m still quite stunned at the room’s conditions. No wonder she had been sick for two weeks.
I left my bike and luggage at her place, and packed up to find some accommodation elsewhere because I obviously couldn’t sleep in the same room as her. I eventually ended up in an internet cafe for 1780 yen for the night, sleeping in the reclining chair after rushing out an LPP application essay for NUS.
Bicycles parked for the night. The bike models are all the same city bikes.
