What we loved about Tokyo
We had a whirlwind trip to Japan in May to experience this wonderful country and culture. It was even more incredible than we had anticipated and we made the most out of our short time there seeing as much as we possibly could. These are the things that we loved most about Tokyo in no particular order.
Shibuya Crossing -
This is a crazy pedestrian crossing and one of the busiest in the world. We arrived during the day and could only imagine the madness at night. After crossing back and forward a few times we went up to Starbucks to experience it from up above. Definitely a must do in Tokyo - just to say you’ve done it.
2. Shibuya Sky
This was brilliant and 100% worth doing. Pre buy your tickets so you aren’t disappointed as it’s very popular and head up to this amazing observation deck with 360 degree views. Not being a fan of lifts, I braved the fast lift to the 47th floor for the most incredible views of Tokyo. It is extremely well organised with lovely big windows, plenty of places to sit and relax and take the views in. There are clear instructions of what you are viewing as well as cafes if you want to have a drink or lunch here. The staff are fun and enthusiastic and the whole experience was fantastic. A definite must do.
3. Team Lab Planets
Another absolute must do!
This is an immersive digital art museum with unique and interactive experiences. Wander through the Waterfall of Light Particles, the Infinite Crystal Universe and float in the Falling Universe of flowers as well as many other incredible and fun activities. It really is the best hour you could spend just losing yourself in this amazing place.
Don’t miss it!
4. Tsukiji Outer Fish Market
This was another fantastic highlight for us. We loved wandering down the narrow alleyways lined with stalls selling fresh seafood and treats to sample as well as numerous restaurants to have a delicious lunch in. We had the most amazing Sushi prepared for us with the freshest seafood by a gorgeous Japanese Chef at Tsukiji Sushi Say Honten. The markets are huge with lots of streets to explore so make sure you give yourself plenty of time.
5. Ginza
This is such a beautiful area. Time your visit for a weekend as the main Ginza Six boulevard becomes fully pedestrianised so you can just stroll and wander down this amazing wide space lined with all the top name brand shops. Take a walk either side and find yourself in gorgeous tree lined streets with amazing little eateries and boutiques. We had a fantastic late tempura lunch in a little counter only restaurant - Ginza Hageten - such a great experience.
6. Shibuya and Harajuku
We loved this bustling and vibrant area full of towering neon signs full of dynamic energy. Walking up from the subway steps when we first arrived in Shibuya our first words were “Wow this is amazing!” Explore beyond here though to discover wide treelined boulevards such as Centre Gai and Spain-zaka with designer shops, boutiques and amazing dining options. At night this area comes alive with bars, clubs and karaoke spots.
Wander into Harajuku, a big favourite of ours as it felt very traditional Japanese. It was full of beautiful narrow streets lined with shops, restaurants and hole in the wall eateries where we selected our Ramen meal from a vending machine and had incredible food at Ore-Ryu Shio. If you need any sports gear this is the spot!
7. Meiji Shrine
This shrine was so calming and beautifully serene and is one of Tokyo’s more important Shinto shrines dedicated to Emperor Mejij and Empress Shoken. Nestled within a vast forested area the walk to the shrine is just divine. Not far from the bustling area of Shibuya, we loved the leisurely 15-20 minute stroll within Yoyogi Park and along the path lined with tall trees giving it a very tranquil atmosphere and a feeling of being immersed in the serenity of the natural surroundings.
The entrance to the shrine begins with passing through the massive torii gate made of cypress wood.
When you arrive at the shrine complex there are several structures including the main hall and the treasure house. It’s all simple but so elegant and a must visit in our opion.
8. Shinjuku and the 3D cat Billboard
Shinjuku was incredible and so dynamic full of skyscrapers, entertainment, shopping and nightlife. We absolutely loved the 3D cat billboard that comes alive with a continual show of this playful larger than life cat.
We wandered along the busy streets and alleyways through the red light district of Kabukicho with it’s bright neon lights and themed bars and Golden Gai which had so much atmosphere and was so unique with it’s narrow alleyways packed with tiny hole in the wall bars that looked to be lucky to seat 4 people in some of them. Omoide Yokocho Alley was another definite must visit with narrow lanes packed with tiny traditional eateries. We sat down at a teriyaki stall and watched our food cooked on skewers while enjoying some sake. We then wandered along the alleyway sampling whatever took our fancy and seeing it all cooked up in front of us.
There’s lots of shopping to do here as well - from department stores such as Takashimaya to huge electronic megastores like Bic Camera. Here too we found plenty of casual restaurants as well as high end restaurants for the more formal dining experience.
