day 15: kyoto to narita airport and back to los angeles

Our mini zen garden in daylight.

I couldn't believe it but after an amazing two weeks in Japan, we were finally heading back home to Los Angeles!  Part of me wanted to stay and vacation more; but part of me was also a little homesick.

We had no plans today other than to return to Tokyo and catch our flight at the Narita Airport in the afternoon.  Of course we had to enjoy a few more dips in the hot spring bath in our room - before and after the amazing traditional Japanese breakfast (with freshly made tofu and grilled fish).  

When we left the ryokan the owner and the entire staff came out to see us off.  The service was simply impeccable at Hiiragiya!

We had previously sent our large pieces of luggage through the luggage delivery service directly to the airport so we only had our backpacks and totes with us for the bullet train ride to Tokyo.   I love the Takuhaibin service!!!  (See here for more information.)  

We picked up some deluxe bento boxes at the train station for our lunch on the bullet train.  So tasty!  It took over 2 hours to get into Tokyo Station, and then we caught a local train to Narita Airport (about an hour).  Our concierge at the Westin had pre-booked and pre-reserved our seats on the trains so it was very convenient.  We wanted to make sure we got to the airport hours ahead so we can do some more duty-free shopping and not feel rushed to catch our flight.

The airport is huge but well-organized with good signage, so we were able to find the luggage kiosk to pick up all of our luggage.  Then we checked in and went through security, and still had a couple of hours.

The duty free shopping at Narita was awesome!  We picked up more skincare and fragrances, more Japanese treats and (we caved) and picked up another high-end Japanese whiskey.  (And no, they did not have the Yamazaki 12 or 18 at duty free - argh.)

As our last meal in Japan, we shared some cold beer and gyoza - and it was delicious!  Why can't airport food in LAX be this good?  

Soon we were boarding and on our way home! 

This trip to Japan was spectacular!  And yes, we will be back!