Started off the journey from SFO. Flew Premium Economy to HND which is a 11.5hr flight. I think the only complaint is that the seats do make my knees hurt if sitting in them for a while (they’re too high for my height). Otherwise don’t think there’s too much extra benefit to Business class.
When I landed in HND, immigration was simple (need to fill in your details on the Japan visit website in advance to make it easy). HOWEVER, I did have to pick up my checked in bag and re-drop it off at the domestic connection (even though in SFO they said I would not). Also had to re-enter security (taking out electronics and liquids).
While waiting for the connecting flight, there was a lounge, but only serves “soft drinks” (ie juice and coffee). But outside of the lounge was an ANA store that sold Suntory Highballs in a can, and you can drink it in the airport. Totally capitalized on that.
The flight to OKA was 2.5hrs. Spent most of it playing Pokemon ZA (they didn’t serve any alcohol! Only soft drinks).
After landing at OKA, took the airport shuttle to Avis (originally though it was connected to the terminal, but good thing I looked on Google Maps. And Gemini helped navigate how to get to the shuttle quickly. Also I was cutting it close since the plane landed at 7pm, and rental car spot closed at 8pm).
Arriving at Avis, they required and International Drivers Licence (which I had), and gave me a 10 minute lesson on the roads here. They also emphasized what to do in an accident situation (see pictures). Also language barrier was tricky when they were explains if CDW was covered).
Fortunately roads were not busy first time truly driving on the other side of the road. Biggest issue was that wired CarPlay would disconnect (eventually switched to wireless the next day). Also next time, gonna ask about getting a car with ETC so I can go through the toll roads without having to stop and get a ticket (which you pay at the end of the toll road).
Then checked into the hotel, ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort. Biggest obstacle (aside from parking the car since it was dark and parking frontwards was difficult due to estimation, so parked reversed) was the language barrier (again). But we got through it, and my IHG Diamond status proved useful (they upgraded my floor to a higher one and I got late checkout).
Ended the day with getting some supplies at the hotel convenience store. Got a KitKat (which tastes so much chocolatier and darker than Canada’s or US), pringles (the chips are slightly smaller then US), and Okinawa Rice Whisky (not gonna lie, it’s just ok. Wish it had more flavor / sweeter). Oh, and also room service (with Japanese fried chicken).
