Early morning to get ready for my 8:25 am flight from Calgary to Vancouver. No issues getting to the airport with the G7 in town. Managed to get through security and to the lounge in about 5 minutes. Had some coffee and relaxed – definitely started feeling the lack of sleep.

Flight to Vancouver was quick but still got a full breakfast with more coffee and orange juice. As usual, the minute I get my food and full cup of hot coffee, the turbulence starts! Managed to avoid spilling the drinks.

Got to Vancouver on time and was an easy transfer to the international departures without having to go through security again. Had a 4 hour layover so relaxed in the lounge, trying to stay awake.

Boarded my flight to Tokyo and was dismayed with the number of kids in the business class. My irritation was exacerbated by tiredness and the lack of champagne! The dad of one of the families apparently doesn’t fly up front very often as he thought he should try to push my bags and cram his bags in my overhead bin, not even checking the bin right above his seat. I set him straight pretty quick!

They finally came around with the champagne and the flight improved, particularly after a few more glasses and the noise canceling headphones. Nice Japanese meal for dinner and managed to get a bit of sleep but didn’t want to sleep too much.

Had a bit of breakfast and got off the plane, through immigration and customs pretty quick as they have us a fast pass, not that the regular line looked bad. Got a ticket on the Narita Express train, which takes me right to my hotel.

Got to my hotel after navigating my way through Tokyo Station (so many exits) and checked in. It’s 34C here today and when got to my room they have the heated toilet seat on… not sure that’s really required!

Took a brief walk to a bookstore around the block before my friends arrived.

Went to Tokyo Ramen Street below the station by the hotel for a quick dinner and beer and then walked around the shops for a bit.

Now ready for some much needed rest!