The Ultimate Tokyo Travel Guide

Shinjuku: Experience the vibrant energy of this bustling district, home to towering skyscrapers, vibrant nightlife and the iconic Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Shibuya: Get lost in the chaos of Shibuya Crossing, shop 'til you drop in trendy boutiques and visit the famous Hachiko statue commemorating loyalty.

Asakusa: Immerse yourself in traditional Japan with a visit to Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, and stroll along Nakamise-dori, a street lined with souvenir shops and street food stalls.

Harajuku: Dive into Tokyo's kawaii (cute) culture in this vibrant neighborhood known for its quirky fashion boutiques, colorful street art and bustling Takeshita Street.

Akihabara: Explore the mecca of Japanese pop culture with its countless electronics shops, anime stores and themed cafes catering to every otaku's dream.

Ginza: Indulge in luxury shopping, dine at world-class restaurants and soak up the sophistication of Tokyo's premier upscale district.

Odaiba: Enjoy a mix of entertainment, shopping and waterfront views on this futuristic artificial island, home to attractions like the Odaiba Rainbow Bridge and the teamLab Borderless digital art museum.

Roppongi: Experience Tokyo's cosmopolitan side with its trendy bars, art galleries and the iconic Tokyo Tower offering panoramic city views.

Omotesando: Known as Tokyo's Champs-Élysées, Omotesando Avenue is lined with trendy boutiques, stylish cafes, and architectural marvels. Take a leisurely stroll down this tree-lined boulevard, marveling at the innovative designs of flagship stores from renowned fashion brands. Don't miss the iconic Omotesando Hills shopping complex, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture, and be sure to explore the hidden gems of the surrounding backstreets for unique shopping and dining experiences.

Day Trip to Kamakura

• Morning: Departure from Tokyo: Start your day early from Tokyo. Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station. The journey takes approximately one hour. Visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: Upon arrival in Kamakura, head to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, the city's most important Shinto shrine. Explore the beautiful grounds, including the iconic red Torii gate and the picturesque ponds and gardens.

• Midday: Lunch in Komachi Street: After visiting the shrine, stroll along Komachi Street, a bustling pedestrian street lined with shops and restaurants. Choose from a variety of local eateries serving traditional Japanese cuisine, such as soba noodles, seafood, and Kamakura's famous sweet potato dishes.

• Afternoon: Explore Great Buddha of Kamakura: Walk or take a short bus ride to Kotoku-in Temple to see the Great Buddha of Kamakura (Daibutsu). This towering bronze statue, dating back to the 13th century, is one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. Visit Hasedera Temple: From Kotoku-in Temple, continue to Hasedera Temple, known for its serene atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding area. Explore the temple's beautiful gardens, ponds, and various halls housing Buddhist statues and artifacts.

• Evening: Relax at Yuigahama Beach: If time allows, take a leisurely stroll to Yuigahama Beach, located within walking distance from Hasedera Temple. Relax on the sandy shores and enjoy the peaceful ambiance as you watch the sunset over the ocean.

• Return to Tokyo: Head back to Kamakura Station and catch the train back to Tokyo.

Places to Eat:

Sukiyabashi Jiro: Experience the epitome of sushi perfection at this legendary three-Michelin-starred restaurant, famously featured in the documentary "Jiro Dreams of Sushi." Reservations are essential and be prepared for an unforgettable culinary journey.

Ryugin: Indulge in innovative kaiseki cuisine at this acclaimed restaurant, where Chef Seiji Yamamoto crafts exquisite dishes using seasonal ingredients to create culinary masterpieces that delight all the senses.

Narisawa: Delve into the world of "innovative Satoyama cuisine" at Narisawa, where Chef Yoshihiro Narisawa combines French cooking techniques with Japanese flavors to create dishes that reflect nature and sustainability.

Den: Enjoy playful and imaginative modern Japanese cuisine at Den, helmed by Chef Zaiyu Hasegawa. The intimate dining experience is characterized by whimsical presentations and surprising flavor combinations that elevate comfort food to an art form.

Ishikawa: Enter a world of culinary refinement at Ishikawa, where Chef Hideki Ishikawa showcases the essence of traditional Japanese haute cuisine through his meticulously crafted multi-course meals, each dish a testament to his skill and creativity.

Tsukiji Fish Market: Once the world's largest wholesale fish market, offers a bustling atmosphere and a diverse array of fresh seafood.

Places to Drink:

New York Bar at Park Hyatt Tokyo: Immortalized in the film "Lost in Translation," this sophisticated bar offers stunning views of the Tokyo skyline from the 52nd floor, along with an extensive selection of premium cocktails and live jazz performances.

Bar High Five: Renowned mixologist Hidetsugu Ueno presides over this intimate cocktail haven, where classic cocktails are elevated to new heights through expert craftsmanship and the finest spirits.

Gen Yamamoto: Experience the art of Japanese cocktail omakase at Gen Yamamoto, where seasonal ingredients are transformed into exquisite libations that showcase the flavors of Japan's diverse landscapes.

Star Bar Ginza: Step into the golden age of cocktail culture at Star Bar Ginza, where master bartender Hisashi Kishi crafts classic cocktails with precision and flair, using only the highest quality spirits and ingredients.

Ben Fiddich: Discover the alchemy of mixology at Ben Fiddich, where owner and bartender Hiroyasu Kayama creates innovative cocktails using house-made infusions, tinctures, and bitters, resulting in drinks that are as fascinating as they are delicious.