good things about tokyo

People in Tokyo Have a Unique Fashion Sense. Let's talk about ramen for a second. Built as a high-end shopping centre and residence back in the 1960s, Nakano Broadway has transformed over the years into a subcultural paradise, packed with tiny shops hawking rare comics, figurines, video games and just about anything else your geeky heart desires. These are two of the city's most high-end points properties, but I promise there's something for everyone and every budget here. Why go? Try another? This has helped solidify its place as one of 2022's top ten. Gazing upon a tranquil landscape garden while soaking in the rotenburo (outdoor bath). Why go? Why go? What is it? Once youve got your photo of the Shibuya scramble, how about replicating the unforgettable scene in which Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson belt out karaoke with Tokyos nighttime skyline panning out behind them? Drink outside, smoke inside. 50 reasons why Tokyo is the world's great city By Steve Trautlein, Matt Alt, Hiroko Yoda, Melinda Joe, Andrew Szymanski and W. David Marx, CNN Updated 6:48 AM EDT, Wed July 12, 2017 Link. From Kyoto to Aomori, Japan is home to. Most municipalities here have their own designs inspired by the areas heritage. They are both next-level ramen, and youll be compelled to finish the soup to the last drop. By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. The trip took less than three hours, and yes, the bullet train is as fast as you've heard. Dont miss: Dont forget the crunchy stick-shaped cream puffs at Croquant Chou Zakuzaku, and finish off with a kawaii 3D latte art at Reissue. 5. Plus, its the perfect place to get away from the overwhelming madness of the neighbouring Harajuku. Also, you'll need to swipe it (or your individual ticket) as you leave the station, so be sure to keep it accessible. If youre hunting for that elusive Yeezy or Air Jordan, try your luck at Harajukus Worm. Head to the demonstration corner at the back of the caf and test the state-of-the-art remote-control robot system in person. Hi, We are arriving in Tokyo in the second week of July for a weeks time. Dont miss: Head across the lawn to Tokyo Midtown for some retail therapy or a meal at one of the malls many restaurants. I just always play it safe. Dont miss: If you find yourself craving some sustenance after a couple of drinks, head to Ramen Nagi, which serves some of the best ramen in the city in a fish-based broth. And there are even more properties on the horizon as the capital prepares for the 2020 Summer Olympics. A major spot for many travellers passing in and out of the city, the sprawling station is also home to an overwhelming selection of restaurants and shops. Chef Onuki chimed in, as well, and it made for a really memorable start to my trip. The menu changes seasonally, and details the many components that go into each indulgent parfait. Here youll likely forget youre still in the metropolis, as you unwind in an array of baths all fed by a gushing spring 1,500m below ground, set within a traditional Japanese house. The classic takoyaki is topped with takoyaki sauce and mayonnaise, but Tempu also serves unique variations of the dish you wont find in other places by replacing the original sauce with ponzu or olive oil instead. If you're staying anywhere in Shinjuku and even if you're not add this to your list. The epicentre of Japanese dining and going-out culture, izakaya are closest in style to a gastro pub or tavern, but encompass much more than that. See what a point or mile is worth with our appraisals of a loyalty programs currency, based on redemption values. You'll inevitably end up waiting in line for each for about an hour or so, but since it's Japan, everything is efficient and moves quickly. The menu changes seasonally, and details the many components that go into each indulgent parfait. Pull up an upturned beer crate outside one of the down-home yakitori joints lining this street parallel to Koenjis train track and enjoy some of Tokyos best people-watching with a grilled chicken skewer in one hand and a cold beer in the other. You can watch the action from the visitors gallery above, or apply in an online lottery for a spot in the observation deck on the same level as the auction. As one of the world's greatest food cities, the choices in Tokyo can be overwhelming. What is it? Ginza Itoya is a 12-storey stationery wonderland, offering everything from fancy fountain pens and designer paper to custom notebooks and leather goods like wallets and card holders. Photo: Natthapon Ngamnithiporn/Dreamstime. But Den is devoid of the genteel atmosphere often found at similar restaurants, so its easy to relax and just enjoy chef Hasegawas modern interpretation of kaiseki. The pancake specialists airy, wobbly goodies are made from premium ingredients including eggs from local farms, and are known for their melt-in-the-mouth texture. I loved putting on my headphones and listening to music while Google Maps was on in the background; it told me exactly when I needed to turn, and if I was taking the subway, when the train was leaving and what platform I needed to be at. Why go? Tokyo is a stunning city with the endless sea of colors, buildings, and lights, it's a must to see Tokyo from above. With its abundance of gay nightlife venues like. The certified therapists at Okutama Forest Therapy will guide you through the five different therapy routes. Savoy was originally started by the owner of Seirinkan, another one of Tokyos top pizza restaurants. Head up the South Observation Deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku to fully appreciate the seemingly endless cityscape of our sprawling metropolis. If you thought my culinary extravaganza was over, you'd be wrong. But it has evolved recently to become one of Tokyos hottest new food hubs. The best time to visit is between 11am and 1pm, and prices are 1,200 for the first hour, including a drink, with 500 for an extra 30 minutes. Better bring an extra bag. Gazing upon a tranquil landscape garden while soaking in the rotenburo (outdoor bath). Why go? var _protocol =((https: == document.location.protocol) ? The Yard and Kimono Hazuki are two of the citys best-stocked kimono shops. This self-styled champion of grill-it-yourself meat restaurant stands out even in Ebisu, a neighbourhood known for its unparalleled selection of yakiniku joints. It's all part of the experience. An uninterrupted 360-degree panorama encompasses both Tokyo Tower and the Skytree, with Mt Fuji also visible if the weathers kind. The compound also houses Asakusa Jinja shrine, which is the origin of the Sanja Matsuri: an annual festival which turns Sensoji and surrounds into a festival bonanza in mid-May, with multiple mikoshi (portable shrines) carried around Asakusa from midday to night. The pinnacle for Japanese cuisine, the multi-course banquet known as kaiseki can be an intimidating experience to the uninitiated due to its formalities. What is it? This is where youll discover the latest food trends in Tokyo. Dont miss: For a sneak peek of what you can expect, check out Bosaikans official YouTube channel where youll find videos of Tokyo's fire department and other safety tips. Some areas feel like a vision of the future, with ever taller, ever sleeker structures popping up each year. Of the two, I would choose Bills the quality of the food was better, and the overall vibe of the restaurant was more relaxed and fun. Near Akihabara, Tokyos manga and anime mecca, Manga Art Hotel is a capsule hotel with a twist its a manga library you can sleep in. Baseball is big in Japan and Tokyo is home to two professional teams: the Yomiuri Giants are based at Tokyo Dome while the Tokyo Yakult Swallows at Meiji Jingu Stadium. It's in an awkward part of the city and to make the 5:30AM meeting, you will either have to take a cab or . Visitors to Tokyo have been seeking the Lost in Translation experience ever since the now classic movie debuted in 2003. var s = document.getElementsByTagName(script)[0]; All the shirts are handmade, and you could easily spend an entire day there browsing and chatting with Chi Chi and Merry. Although the price tag is rather steep, the courses are worth it they steamroll you through a series of easy-to-understand recipes so you can recreate the magic at home. Go for the lunch set, where you get a pizza, a salad and a drink for only 1,000. Why go? Dont miss: The souvenir shop on site is worth a look for nifty gifts and fun trinkets. , Den is a modern kaiseki restaurant helmed by head chef and owner Zaiyu Hasegawa. A Little Bit About this 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary. Dont miss: As with most traditional tonkatsu restaurants, you can ask for refills of the plain rice and cabbage salad that come as accompaniments to the pork. A major spot for many travellers passing in and out of the city, the sprawling station is also home to an overwhelming selection of restaurants and shops. This hyper-modern store may look like a gallery but you can actually buy from its treasure trove of Japanese and international cult labels such as Comme des Garcons, Yohji Yamamoto, Maison Margiela and Raf Simons. TORU YAMANAKA/AFP/Getty Images. What is it? What is it? Stoked! Tokyo is a haven for sneakerheads, offering flagship stores of todays hottest brands on top of countless speciality stores stocking rare editions and collectibles in mint condition. Our favourites include the superb sake bar Akaoni and oldschool yakitori (grilled skewered chicken) restaurant Tokoshima. People (everyone, not just those working in hospitality) go out of their way to help you and make sure you're comfortable. Besides its two observation decks, from which you have marvellous views of the cityscape, theres also a One Piece-themed amusement park, attracting manga fans from the world over. The musical genres on show vary quite a bit, featuring everything from rock to R&B to house music. For a crash course on Japanese izakaya culture, visit Shirube for its pub food staples with a twist. It's hard for people not to appreciate the amazing attributes of Japan and Tokyo, especially when they know where to look! Each exhibition showcases either the culture, food, design or history of a particular prefecture, or is curated to a theme. There's plenty of room for wheelchair access, plus different types of seating to make sure everyone feels welcome. The massive space houses the roasting factory on the fourth floor, with each floor below devoted to a different type of Starbucks hangout. Continue to 5 of 18 below. , or forest bathing, is the practice of surrounding yourself in nature to relieve stress. And why not? Laidback and welcoming, its a comfy place where owner Michael can usually be found spinning the decks while his wife Mio prepares delicious pub grub and drinks behind the counter. Dont miss: If you're not around Shibuya, you'll be glad to know that Uogashi has a few other outlets around the capital including branches in Kyobashi, Akihabara, Kichijoji, Akasaka and more. Baseball is big in Japan and Tokyo is home to two professional teams: the Yomiuri Giants are based at Tokyo Dome while the Tokyo Yakult Swallows at Meiji Jingu Stadium. What is it? This labyrinthine cluster of alleys lined with small bars and restaurants dates back to the early postwar era, when rickety shacks built with whatever materials were available started popping up haphazardly near Sangenjaya Station. In Tokyo, I went to Bills Ginza and A Happy Pancake; I inhaled my pancakes in minutes. Run by the affable Bungo Kaneko, Savoy is a local pizza institution that arguably rivals many a pizza place in Italy. Why go? Why go? If youre looking for something more casual than crafted cocktails in Ginza and less rowdy than nightclubs in Roppongi, Shinjukus Golden Gai is the obvious choice for an unforgettable night out (depending on the number of shots you take). This kitchen town is made up of over 170 wholesale stores selling crockery, pots and pans, knives, chopsticks, plastic food models, grills everything you need to step up your cooking game at home or even set up a restaurant. Bricolage Bread & Co is a case in point of why artisanal bread should be on your Tokyo list. To get to Kyoto, I took the scenic Shinkasen directly from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station. Why go? s.parentNode.insertBefore(atag, s); It is no exaggeration to say that Tokyo Skytree is today the most iconic landmark in Tokyo. The more enclosed a space is, the more likely . Be sure to admire the exquisite architecture by the famed architect Kengo Kuma. It all feels quite analogue and old-worldly in high-tech Tokyo. stop by tofu specialist Ukai on your way downhill towards Akabanebashi Station; the restaurants traditional setting, complete with a Japanese garden, is the perfect hideaway to forget the hustle and bustle of Tokyo streets. Dont miss: When visiting for the first time, your best bet is to order one of the set dinners (from 5,800), which include appetisers and dessert to go with a selection of the days best meat. is a standing sushi bar that serves up fresh nigiri and temaki (hand rolls) made right in front of your eyes. Operating during the warm season, these depart from near Kachidoki Station and travel beneath the Rainbow Bridge, past Odaiba and up the Sumida River, all while you feast on a full kaiseki dinner featuring tempura and sashimi, with beer and sake also included. Youll need to register for the twice-daily guided tour of the inner grounds via the website but you can freely rock up and roam the beautiful parks on the outskirts: East Gardens, Kokyo Gaien National Garden and Kitanomaru Park. Order Shirubes nikujaga (beef and potato stew) served with garlic bread, and a glorious tofu cheese with honey. His namesake Dentucky Fried Chicken, obviously a parody of the famed fast food chain, is a plump, golden-skinned, deep-fried chicken gyoza, while the signature salad offers seasonal vegetables prepared in a myriad of ways. Dont miss: Theres a working grand piano adorned with Yayoi Kusamas signature polka-dot motif that is free for anyone to play. Tokyo is the land of cutting-edge advancements in robot science and Miraikan is where you get to explore the next frontier in android tech. Its a breathtaking view that makes for a great photo op. Taisho is a Koenji institution, boasting plenty of alfresco seating and yakitori from just 110 a pop. Dont miss: To get there via the futuristic Yurikamome line, as the train takes you across the iconic Rainbow Bridge for a great view of Tokyo Bay. What is it? Sample the Instagram-famous souffl pancakes at one of Flippers many locations throughout the city. Theres also a gallery on the fifth floor, which displays kabuki costumes and holds cultural exhibitions. Whether youre just looking for a quick bite to eat or even some tasty souvenirs, konbini have you covered. Dont miss: What sets this spot apart is its colourful and dramatic presentation, and the seasonal menu offers some of the wackiest flavour combos in town. Known as the Galapagos of the Orient, the Ogasawara archipelago is a stunning subtropical paradise comprising 30 islands with only 2,400 residents. Everyones favourite polka-dot pumpkin artist, Yayoi Kusama has her very own museum in central Tokyo. What is it? Clean For Tokyo being the biggest city it is surprisingly clean! Excellent service and hospitality is so ingrained in the culture that tipping is actually considered rude. What is it? Why go? Quick Facts. Also, I think there's a misconception that you have to spend a lot of money to visit Tokyo. Nerdy stuff pops up everywhere imaginable. The Izu and Ogasawara Islands are also part of Tokyo. Laidback and welcoming, its a comfy place where owner Michael can usually be found spinning the decks while his wife Mio prepares delicious pub grub and drinks behind the counter. There's so much to love in this city. Instead of New Year fireworks, Japan lets it all rip in summer with its many. Vent hosts a different set of artists every week, with music varying from acid jazz to techno. Occupying the entire ground and second floors, the crane game (UFO catcher) machines contain plenty of rare character merchandise queues regularly form in front of the games with the most in-demand items. Japan is one of the world's best countries for food and at the center of all that culinary excitement is Tokyo. Reservations recommended. What is it? Of course Japanese people like to party too but they always make sure that the streets are clean again in the morning. If youre rooting for the Yomiuri Giants, bring along an orange towel; for Tokyo Yakult Swallows, wear bright green and get ready to learn a cheerleading routine using an umbrella. Dont miss:Stop by the neighbouring arcade where you can try your hand at a few UFO machines for bigger prizes. teamLab Planets in Toyosu features nine installations spread out across an expansive 10,000sqm space. Designed by Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki himself, the museum is as whimsical as the films, with no set route inside. There are about 280 tiny bars in these legendary alleyways packed with weekly regulars as well as curious first timers from all corners of the globe. Tokyo (and Japan as a whole) has managed to turn this integral but otherwise inconspicuous component in the urban landscape into a work of art. 5,824. After dark, youll be drawn in by the glow of red lanterns, loud conversations and enticing aromas emanating from the various eateries, which range from curry shops to hip wine bars. The Imperial Palace is the former site of the Edo castle and this new incarnation has been home to emperors since 1888. Tokyos not the only city with a host of traditional festivals. What is it? Tokyo across the seasons is sensational especially when the scenery changes with a different colour each season. So whether youre looking to shake it with your friends or nurse a drink all on your own, this small but spunky music bar in Shibuya always does the trick. In this article, you will learn more about Tokyo and see what the city has to offer as well as get to know why it's so special. Daily specialities include curry, pasta and stiff drinks flavoured with ginger, while most Friday nights see guest DJs spin records until the early hours. The staff are well-versed in the intricacies of the products, and are happy to show you how to use them. The best tsukemen I had was at Fuunji, followed closely by Rokurinsha on Ramen Street in Tokyo Station. Why go? The first floor is a bakery and caf; the second floor is a Teavana tea room; and the third floor an Arriviamo cocktail bar. Thought to be the birthplace of the iconic Japanese beckoning cat maneki-neko, Gotokuji Temple is overrun with these cute figurines in all sizes. So get out there and enjoy them. , or share a casual pint with a group of up-and-coming artists. The stores run along Shinbori-dori, from the corner of Asakusa-dori, so if youre visiting Asakusas Sensoji Temple, Kappabashi is about a 10-minute walk and worthwhile detour for the budding, established or curious cook. So, your best bet is using some type of concierge service from either your hotel or credit card (think: the Amex Platinum Concierge). Ueno Park and Ueno Zoo. Now, when I tell you I spent as much time planning my itinerary as I did putting together the TPG beginner's guide, it's not an exaggeration. Why go? There are more artworks to discover along and around Pal Shotengai (shopping street), where youll find beautiful images adorning walls, shop shutters and building faades. For more things to do in Shimokitazawa, check out our feature here. The swanky shopping district of Omotesando seems an unlikely location for a basement party, but the first-class sound system at Vent combined with its cult following of music lovers makes this event space one of the best of its kind. Steps away from Harajuku, you'll find Meiji Jingu, a beautiful Shinto shrine. 3. Dont know where to start? After dark, youll be drawn in by the glow of red lanterns, loud conversations and enticing aromas emanating from the various eateries, which range from curry shops to hip wine bars. You can book either a basic class (2,500 per pax for groups of at least three) or the full monty (10,000 per pax for groups of at least two), in which participants change into yukata robes before the ceremony (you get to keep the yukata, too). Why go? Japan's capital and largest city. (miracle) pancakes come in two types: the plain version is served with a dollop of house-made maple butter cream, while the other is topped with seasonal fruit. Why go? Its a breathtaking view that makes for a great photo op. Be sure to bathe in some of the smoke from the incense, since it's said to have healing powers. Why go? Although the price tag is rather steep, the courses are worth it they steamroll you through a series of easy-to-understand recipes so you can recreate the magic at home. })(); Why go? What is it? Note that theres no entry for children under the age of six or anyone under the influence of alcohol. The Gashapon Department Store, located inside Ikebukuros Sunshine City shopping centre, is now home to the largest number of gashapon machines at a single location, boasting a whopping 3,000 capsule toy machines. At night, you'll be able to see a light show called the 'Crossing Light' as 18 beams illuminate the city. Before you leave, stop by the second floor, where you can purchase cards and note paper, fill them out and mail them off on the spot. window._pt_sp_2 = []; Fluffy pancakes are also a must in Japan, and trust me, I had more than my fair share. What is it? Fluffy pancakes are also a must in Japan, and trust me, I had more than my fair share. First thing's first: I knew I needed to stuff my face with as much sushi as possible, and there was one restaurant I kept seeing pop up again and again: Sushi-Ya. What is it? The appropriately named kiseki (miracle) pancakes come in two types: the plain version is served with a dollop of house-made maple butter cream, while the other is topped with seasonal fruit. Looking for that special memento? Why go? Start at the YS Building, which has had its 20m-high wall covered with Whole9s vibrant mural of an eagle. Tokyo is the land of cutting-edge advancements in robot science and Miraikan is where you get to explore the next frontier in android tech. Dont miss: Tokyos not the only city with a host of traditional festivals. The stunning architecture bears Andos signature styles; the low-rise concrete structure is a masterful exercise in clean lines and light play, and holds a cavernous subterranean space. Forget cheap tourist tat and head straight to the amazing gift shop located inside The National Art Center, Tokyo. While the wholesale market of Tsukiji closed and relocated to Toyosu in 2018, the outer market is still very much alive and well. To enhance your experience, ask the knowledgeable staff for a sake to pair with the food. Performances are held most days of the month, and if you arent sure about committing to an entire show, there are single-act tickets available at the door (single-act tickets currently suspended due to Covid-19). Although getting around this fast-paced mega city is not, as they say, "a-walk-in-the-park.". What is it? The credit card offers that appear on the website are from credit card companies from which ThePointsGuy.com receives compensation. Why go? You don't have to stay overnight to enjoy the facilities, either just sign up for one of the many daytime packages. Why go? Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. (light cotton kimono). I ended up getting a bag I've had my eye on for years, and it cost me less than half of what it would have cost at home. Why go? What is it? Tokyo is now home to six colourful Pokfuta, or. Learn in the form of guided tours that pass through a very realistic quake simulator and a smoke maze, plus the only chance youll ever have to play with fire extinguishers without getting in trouble. The Inner Garden, located just off the main path to the shrine, is exceptionally quiet, and boasts a colourful iris field in early summer around June. It's a Japanese specialty where the cold noodles are served in a bowl separate from the warm broth. Fugu is poisonous and lethal if not prepared properly, but the cluster of food safety certificates on the walls should assuage the fears of even the most ardent fugu-phobes. Why go? Situated on an island, its surrounded by an ancient walled moat with two entrances (its also possible to reach Hamarikyu by waterbus from Asakusa). If youre short on time, this is a one-stop centre to sample popular Japanese dishes and stock up on souvenirs. Dont miss: To gaze at the vibrant fireworks lighting up the skies in summer whereas sparkling illuminations bedeck the city streets come winter. The stylish home of kabuki, this main theatre in Ginza has stood on the same spot for over 120 years, but its present incarnation is rather newer than that it only opened in April 2013. Its 20 or so furry residents are all cared for and monitored by the clinics staff, who make sure the animals stay both physically and mentally healthy. Looking for a little late night fun? Dont miss: If youre feeling peckish, opt for something more substantial, such as Galants omurice (rice wrapped in an omelette), a classic yoshoku (Western-style Japanese food) staple. Here are 20 of the best dating spots you can find in the city. The city is also home to a number of free public art sculptures which are worth a look, too. Take your time exploring Tsukijis roughly 300 shops and restaurants. Why go? Dont miss: Order Shirubes nikujaga (beef and potato stew) served with garlic bread, and a glorious tofu cheese with honey. Head to the neighbourhoods main street, Takeshita-dori, and start your eating with a rainbow cotton candy at Momi & Toys, then move on to Eiswelt Gelatos animal-shaped ice cream cone before digging into a rainbow grilled cheese sandwich at Le Shiner and one of Harajukus famous crepes. There are anime figurines from the likes of Pokmon, Gundam, Ultraman and Doraemon as well realistic food replicas. You might even be able to spot Mt Fuji on a clear day. A compendium of local cuisine and a custodian of Japanese gift culture, they are an essential visit. What is it? Youll need to register for the twice-daily guided tour of the inner grounds via the website but you can freely rock up and roam the beautiful parks on the outskirts: East Gardens, Kokyo Gaien National Garden and Kitanomaru Park. (function() { A mainstay of Tokyos eating and drinking scene, yokocho are alleyways crammed with a host of tiny restaurants and bars.

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