When in Japan: Step 1: Explore your hotel's area in Shinjuku, Tokyo on Day 1

The hotel choice in the Shinjuku Ward was perfect. It was the center of the business district, a few steps away from the train station. Thanks to the Japanese man for pointing me in the right direction.

I got a room upgrade. Domo arigato! A bigger room with a view of the bustling ward. Exciting by day, breathtaking at night. I could stay in the cozy room for hours, but first thing first, I had to explore the neighborhood. So I dumped my stuff in my room and hurried out to the streets of Tokyo.

Acquainting myself with the area was quick. It only took a few minutes, and I was strutting like a local. Somehow, this backed my belief that I truly must have been Japanese in my past life.

Here's a tip: make sure you can retrace your steps back home. Identifying the landmarks along the way may help.

In the ward’s center of commerce, I chose the South Entrance of the JR train station closest to my hotel. The backup came easy, a beacon! The structure directly facing this entrance was another landmark—the Takashimaya mall. Now, getting lost was next to impossible.

Tip 2 would be to scout for restaurants and 24-hour grocery stores in the area. Know what these neighborhood restos have to offer, the cost, and service hours. These may be the wisest things you can do, just in case a sudden craving for the ramen and gyoza strikes at ungodly hours.