Tokyo 2013
LAX is still under remodeling, but at least one edible restaurant is now in Terminal 7. Throw in United's sardine-like Boeing 777-222's economy class and its oh-so-delicious food, not exactly the best experience. At least it's not too long of a flight (10 hours) and the in-flight entertainment is now at least halfway decent.
Arrival in Narita is initially unremarkable, but waiting for the airport limo bus is your first hint something is different. They have waiting areas, then two separate lines painted for the bus and the next bus about to board, they radio when the bus is a minute late (and most were less than 90 seconds late!), they bow to the bus when it leaves, your luggage is all tagged early, etc. etc.
The countryside is very dense compared to American countryside, passing by Tokyo DisneySea still manages to look unique, and the arrival at the hotel shows bellhops everywhere, plenty of staff behind the reception counter, and staff across the reception counter all standing there. Into the room and the toilet packs more electronics than your old cell phone. Yes, it's definitely different here!