As we left the coach after the early morning flight and coach journey from Niigata, where England beat the Danes, an unusual scene was played out.
Hotel staff gathered outside the foyer to ecstatically applaud the media men off the coach, complete with clenched-fist salutes and cheers.
The celebrations were embellished with an impromptu banner of the cross of St George emblazoned with the word "Winners", which was also on display.
This presumably means angry porters and disgruntled bellboys will pelt us with rotten eggs and abuse should England fail to win the World Cup.
Fancy a snog, Sven?
Japan coach Philippe Troussier has occasionally had an uneasy relationship with the country's powers-that-be - but not any more.
The country's media has started a love affair with the French coach, who is tipped to land a major club post after the end of a World Cup in which Japan have arrived as a true force.
Troussier's popularity reached new heights after the 2-0 win against Tunisia sent Japan into the last 16.
A Japanese journalist asked Troussier in his post-match press conference: "Can I give you a hug?"
Troussier responded by opening his arms wide and agreeing to the request, proving the French continue to lead the way when it comes to romance.
Throw the scene forward two weeks and the sight of Sven-Goran Eriksson conducting his victory conference in Yokohama after the World Cup Final.
It is difficult to imagine the battle-weary English media lining up to snog Sven out of sheer gratitude for his achievements.
Indeed, when confronted by a group of men who have been away from their loved ones for five weeks - and in some cases even longer - it may turn into a potentially hazardous occupation for Eriksson.
The hair-dryer treatment - Japan style
Japan's obsession with littering hotels with hair products has already been detailed here - from putting vile smelling "Hair Tonic" in your room to the slightly unusual provision of a complimentary headband.
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