Tokyo, the bustling metropolis that is home to 37.4 million people, is a captivating blend of old and new. It’s a place where ancient temples stand proudly alongside gleaming skyscrapers, and where you can savor a simple egg salad sandwich from a convenience store or indulge in a Michelin-starred sushi experience. It’s no wonder so many of my clients fall in love with this city!
The people are kind, the streets are spotless, and the cuisine is simply divine. But Tokyo is more than just a collection of attractions. It’s a city best explored on foot, allowing you to wander through its hidden corners and discover its hidden gems. Paul McInnes, editor-in-chief of Voyapon, a website dedicated to Japanese culture, encourages travelers to “invest in some comfortable walking shoes and explore this great modern city.” He believes walking lets you experience the city’s unique rhythm and discover those “nooks and crannies” that are often overlooked.
A Journey Through Tokyo’s Vibrant Districts
Asakusa, Tokyo’s oldest district, is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience traditional Japan. Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast of onigiri rice balls and miso soup at Misojyu, then stroll along the lively Nakamise Dori pedestrian street, lined with shops selling souvenirs and traditional goods. At the end of the street, you’ll reach Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, with a history spanning over 1,300 years. Kappabashi, Tokyo’s kitchenware district, is just a short walk away. Here, you’ll find everything from sleek Kama-Asa knives to elaborate kitchen gadgets. Remember to pack your knives in your checked luggage when you leave!
Ueno is a neighborhood brimming with cultural attractions. Head here by subway and visit the Ueno Park, a vast green space home to several museums, including the Tokyo National Museum, Japan’s largest and oldest art museum. If you’re traveling with children, a trip to the nearby Akihabara district, known for its vibrant anime and manga culture, is a must.
Ginza, Tokyo’s most luxurious district, is a haven for shopping enthusiasts. Browse the stylish boutiques, like Natsuno for chopsticks, Ito-ya for stationery, and Issey Miyake for its iconic Pleats Please clothing. Ginza also boasts the stunning Ginza Six department store, with its rooftop garden and basement food hall filled with delicious treats. Don’t miss the free art galleries at fashion houses like Issey Miyake Cube and Maison Hermes.
Embracing Tokyo’s Culinary Delights
No visit to Tokyo is complete without savoring its delectable cuisine. For a true sushi experience, head to Ginza Kyubey, renowned for its gunkan sushi, which features rice topped with soft fillings like uni (sea urchin). For a more casual dining experience, try monjayaki in the Tsukishima area, Tokyo’s version of okonomiyaki savory pancakes.
Exploring Tokyo’s Diverse Sides
Harajuku, Tokyo’s heart of pop culture, offers a vibrant mix of street fashion and unique experiences. Start with a peaceful walk through the Meiji Jingu Shrine, a lush green space dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Then, immerse yourself in the Takeshita Dori, a narrow pedestrian street where you can find all things kawaii (cute), from cosplay costumes to quirky fashion boutiques. For a touch of luxury, stroll along Omotesando Street, home to designer boutiques and stylish cafes.
Daikanyama, a fashionable and hipster-friendly neighborhood, is a great place to discover trendy Japanese denim boutiques. Don’t miss the colorful tenugui cotton cloths at Kamawanu – they make wonderful gifts for friends. And be sure to lose yourself in the Tsutaya T-Site bookstore, a cultural oasis with a wide selection of books, music, and movies.
A Glimpse into Tokyo’s Quirky Charm
Shinjuku, a mix of towering skyscrapers and peaceful green spaces, is a neighborhood that embodies Tokyo’s dynamic energy. Start your day with a classic kissaten coffee experience at L’ambre, where you can savor a cup of coffee with toast while listening to classical music. Then, head to the Isetan department store, where the basement food hall, known as depachika, is a wonderland of fresh ingredients, delicious sweets, and beautifully presented gourmet treats.
Nakano Broadway is a haven for anime enthusiasts, offering vintage watches, manga magazines, anime figurines, and even a rainbow soft serve in the food hall basement. If you’re a fan of pop culture, be sure to stop by Zingaro coffee shop by Murakami.
A Final Day in Tokyo: Immersed in Culture and Nature
Begin your final day in Tokyo with a tranquil visit to Hamarikyu Gardens, a former imperial detached palace on the waterfront. Admire the peaceful contrast of the gardens against the backdrop of the city’s skyscrapers, and don’t miss the 300-year-old pine tree. For a delicious breakfast, try the creamy chicken ramen at Ginza Kagari.
Azabudai Hills is a modern complex featuring shops, cafes, restaurants, and the teamLab Borderless, a digital art museum that promises an immersive and interactive experience. Roppongi, a vibrant district, offers a variety of cultural attractions, including the Mori Art Museum with its observatory, the 21_21 Design Sight, and the National Art Center, Tokyo.
For a memorable final night in Tokyo, indulge in sake and sake-friendly dishes at the cozy Eureka! If you’re traveling with children, a trip to Sushiro, a kaitenzushi shop where you can order sushi from an iPad and watch it arrive on a conveyor belt, is sure to be a hit.
Choosing Your Perfect Stay in Tokyo
Tokyo is a city that offers a wide range of accommodation options. The Tokyo Station Hotel, a classic hotel known for its omotenashi (hospitality and service), is a convenient choice located right at Tokyo Station. If dining is a priority, the Aman is a luxurious option with excellent concierges who can help you secure reservations at popular restaurants.
Tokyo is a city that has something for everyone, from history buffs to fashionistas, from foodies to art lovers. So, pack your walking shoes, embrace the city’s energy, and get ready to fall in love with Tokyo!
