As travelers prepare for the busy holiday season, Haneda Airport is emerging as a hub of exciting culinary and leisure experiences, particularly in its Terminal 3. Among the highlights is the Hanayama Udon restaurant, renowned for its unique wide noodles and rich history.
Located on the first floor of the Haneda Airport Garden, Hanayama Udon specializes in a dish called "Onihimokawa," which boasts a remarkable width of 5 centimeters. This signature noodle has roots in the local specialty "Himokawa," which had faded into obscurity after World War II. Thanks to the dedication of the fifth-generation owner, who spent a decade researching and reviving this traditional flavor, the restaurant has become a beacon of local cuisine.
The Hanayama Gozen set, priced at 1580 yen, allows patrons to select their choice of noodles alongside traditional Inari sushi. The dish showcases ingredients like sweetly simmered "Joshu shiitake" mushrooms, beautifully scattered over vinegared rice, creating a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The restaurant's décor reflects a love for local culture, incorporating motifs from the historical tales of the region, further enhancing the dining experience.
Yasuichi Yasuda, the manager of Hanayama Udon, emphasizes the restaurant's long-standing history, having been established in 1894, which adds to its charm. "We also have locations in Ginza and Nihonbashi, providing a taste of our heritage to more visitors," Yasuda noted. The restaurant is open daily from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM and from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, making it a convenient stop for travelers.
Aside from dining, Haneda Airport Terminal 3 offers a plethora of attractions. The Edo Koji and Haneda Airport Garden areas are designed to entertain and engage visitors. Edo Koji, located on the fourth floor, recreates the atmosphere of old Edo, inviting guests to stroll through its meticulously crafted streetscapes. This immersive experience is perfect for travelers looking to explore the cultural richness of Japan before their flights.
Another major attraction is the "Haneda Airport Garden," which features a natural hot spring known as "Spa Tenku no Yu." This facility offers a variety of bathing options, including carbonated springs, jet baths, and saunas. The entrance fee is 4800 yen for adults, and the spa operates 24 hours a day, providing a unique opportunity for relaxation amidst the hustle and bustle of travel.
The open-air bath, located on the 12th floor, offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from the women's bath and a chance to watch airplanes take off and land from the men's bath, depending on the weather. The spa's international clientele reflects the airport's global reach, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and cultural exchange.
However, as the holiday season approaches, Haneda Airport is also facing challenges, particularly concerning parking availability. With approximately 800 parking spaces available for advance reservation, many travelers have reported difficulties in securing a spot, especially during peak times like Golden Week and Obon.
Complaints have surfaced regarding high fees charged by reservation agents, with some individuals reporting that they were unable to use their reserved parking despite paying significant handling fees. The airport's management is aware of these issues and is considering measures to prevent agents from monopolizing reservation slots and reselling them at inflated prices.
A man representing a reservation agency claimed that his company merely secures slots on behalf of customers and does not engage in reselling. He acknowledged that the limited parking availability at Haneda is a significant concern and noted that the number of competing agencies has increased, complicating the situation further.
As travelers navigate the complexities of parking reservations, they are encouraged to remain vigilant about unofficial reservation sites that may not provide reliable service. The airport authorities are under pressure to address these complaints and improve the overall parking experience for visitors.
Meanwhile, significant infrastructure projects are underway to enhance rail connectivity to Haneda Airport. A large-scale track switching project was recently completed around JR Tamachi Station, facilitating the development of the new "Haneda Airport Access Line" that will connect the airport to central Tokyo. Over 600 workers were involved in this project, demonstrating the commitment to improving transportation links.
In addition to the new access line, ongoing projects on the Seibu Shinjuku Line aim to elevate or underground existing stations and tracks, further enhancing travel efficiency in the region. These developments are crucial as they aim to support the increasing number of travelers expected during the holiday season.
As the holiday approaches, travelers are reminded that the smooth operation of rail systems and airport facilities is vital for a pleasant travel experience. With exciting dining options, immersive cultural experiences, and ongoing improvements to transportation infrastructure, Haneda Airport is poised to be a key player in Japan's tourism landscape.
