Unveiling the Wonders of Japan

• Witness the grandeur of the Imperial Palace: While the inner grounds are generally not open to the public, explore the beautiful outer gardens surrounding the Imperial Palace, a historical landmark and symbol of Japanese monarchy. Witness the iconic Nijubashi Bridge and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

• Immerse yourself in history at Sensoji Temple: Asakusa's iconic temple offers a glimpse into Japanese culture and religion. Witness traditional rituals, explore the surrounding Nakamise shopping street, and appreciate the serene atmosphere.

• Embrace the modern marvel of Tokyo Skytree: Ascend the tallest structure in Japan for breathtaking panoramic views of the city's skyline. Enjoy interactive exhibits, explore the various observation decks, and even grab a bite at the Sky Restaurant.

• Get lost in the vibrant energy of Shibuya Crossing: Experience the iconic crosswalk with thousands of pedestrians crossing simultaneously. Explore the surrounding trendy neighborhoods like Shibuya 109 and explore a diverse range of shops, cafes and entertainment options.

• Unleash your inner child at the Ghibli Museum: Delve into the whimsical world of Studio Ghibli, renowned for animated masterpieces like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro. Explore interactive exhibits, witness hand-drawn animation techniques and discover the magic behind these beloved films.

• Embrace nature's serenity at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Escape the urban jungle and find tranquility amid meticulously designed gardens. Stroll through picturesque landscapes, explore different garden styles like Japanese and English and enjoy a peaceful break amid the bustling city.

• Savor the culinary delights of Tsukiji Outer Market (now Toyosu Market): Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the world's largest fish market (now relocated to Toyosu). Witness the early-morning tuna auctions (limited access), explore the diverse seafood stalls, and indulge in fresh sushi or other culinary delights.

• Experience the high-tech thrills of Tokyo Joypolis: Unleash your inner gamer at this indoor theme park, featuring exhilarating rides, virtual reality experiences and classic arcade games. Challenge yourself at various attractions, compete with friends and enjoy a fun-filled day.

• Unwind with a relaxing bath at a traditional Sento: Immerse yourself in the centuries-old Japanese bathing culture at a public bathhouse. Experience the communal bathing experience, soothe your muscles in the hot springs and enjoy a unique cultural encounter.

• Witness the artistic wonders of the Tokyo National Museum: Delve into Japan's rich history and diverse art forms through an extensive collection of artifacts. Explore various galleries showcasing ancient sculptures, traditional paintings and samurai armor, gaining insights into Japanese culture.

• Wander through the charming streets of Yanaka Ginza: Discover a hidden gem amid the modern metropolis. Explore this historical district lined with traditional wooden houses, browse through unique shops selling crafts and souvenirs and experience a nostalgic atmosphere.

• Catch a glimpse of sumo wrestling: If you visit during tournament season, consider experiencing the traditional Japanese sport of sumo wrestling. Witness the intense matches, learn about the sport's history and rituals and soak in the unique atmosphere.

Tokyo offers a diverse culinary landscape, catering to all budgets and preferences. Here are some recommendations for breakfast, lunch and dinner, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end experiences:

Breakfast:

• Kissaten (Coffee Shops): Experience a quintessential Japanese breakfast at a kissaten. Enjoy a set menu, typically including coffee, toast, eggs and a small salad. Prices range from ¥500-¥800 (USD $3.70-$5.90)

• Chatei Hatou: A highly-rated Kissaten known for its eclectic cakes and coffee selections.

• Cafe La Seine: A classic Kissaten offering a traditional coffee experience and charming atmosphere.

• Aoyama Ichibankan Shibuya: A retro-style Kissaten with a focus on hand-brewed coffee and light meals.

• Cafe Vin: A spacious Kissaten with a vintage European atmosphere and a wide selection of coffee and desserts.

• Cafe de Nicole: A cozy Kissaten offering coffee, light meals and a relaxing atmosphere.

• Cafe Kiya: A traditional Kissaten serving classic coffee, sandwiches and pastries.

Splurge:

• Ginza Seyoi: Immerse yourself in a luxurious Japanese kaiseki breakfast experience featuring seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation. Nestled in the prestigious Ginza district, this restaurant offers a refined and authentic taste of Japanese culinary tradition. Price Range: ¥5,000 and above (USD $37.00 and above)

• Bills Ginza: Escape to a stylish Australian cafe known for their fluffy ricotta hotcakes and innovative brunch dishes. Savor a vibrant and globally-influenced breakfast menu with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Enjoy a lively atmosphere perfect for a casual yet upscale breakfast experience. Price Range: ¥2,000-¥3,000 (USD $14.80-$22.20)

• Sarabeth's LUMINE 2 Shinjuku: Indulge in a luxurious breakfast spread of classic American favorites like fluffy buttermilk pancakes, eggs Benedict and other comfort food dishes. Located conveniently within the LUMINE 2 department store in Shinjuku, this restaurant offers a sophisticated ambiance and a taste of American culinary tradition in the heart of Tokyo. Price Range: ¥2,000-¥4,000 (USD $14.80-$29.60)

Lunch:

Ramen Shops:

• Men Sho, San Francisco: Michelin-starred, modern take on ramen. Signature "San Francisco-style" ramen features a rich tonkotsu broth with thin noodles and various toppings. Price: ¥1,200-¥1,500 (USD $9.10-$11.10). American-friendly aspects: English menu, modern, stylish atmosphere.

• Ichiran Ramen, Shinjuku Central East Entrance: Unique dining experience with individual booths offering customizable ramen and spice levels. Known for their rich tonkotsu broth and thin noodles. Price: ¥800-¥1,000 (USD $6.00-$7.40). American-friendly aspects: Vending machine ordering with pictures (English available), individual booths offer privacy.

• Usagi (Shibuya): Established in 2007, known for its lighter and sweeter shoyu ramen broth and sous-vide-style chashu (braised pork) topping. Price: ¥800-¥1,000 (USD $6.00-$7.40). American-friendly aspects: English menu, clean, casual atmosphere.

• Jiro Ramen Shibuya 2nd: Local favorite known for its "abura soba" (oil ramen) with thick noodles, rich sauce and generous toppings. Be prepared for a potentially large portion and potential wait times. Price: ¥800-¥1,200 (USD $6.00-$9.10). American-friendly aspects: Limited English menu available, but ordering is typically done through a button system with pictures. Be aware of potential cultural differences and etiquette, as the environment can be fast-paced and loud.

Splurge:

• Sushi Saito: Experience an exceptional omakase (chef's choice) sushi experience at Sushi Saito, a Michelin-starred sushi restaurant known for its impeccable quality and personalized service. Prices start around ¥30,000 (USD $222.00).

• Ryugin: Immerse yourself in a multi-sensory experience at Ryugin, a Michelin three-starred restaurant renowned for its innovative and artistic take on Japanese cuisine. Their "Kanpai experience" lunch menu features a seasonal selection of exquisitely prepared dishes, showcasing the chef's creativity and mastery of culinary techniques. Expect to pay around ¥40,000 (USD $296.00) for this exclusive experience.

• Quintessence Ginza: Savor the essence of Japanese haute cuisine at Quintessence Ginza, another Michelin three-starred establishment. Their "Quintessential Lunch Course" features seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation, offering a refined and unforgettable taste of Japanese culinary artistry. Prices start around ¥35,000 (USD $260.00) for this exceptional lunch experience.

Dinner:

• Low: Yakitori-ya (Skewer Restaurants): Enjoy a casual and lively atmosphere at a yakitori-ya, specializing in grilled skewers of chicken, vegetables and other meats. Prices are typically per skewer, making it a budget-friendly option for sharing.

• Torikizoku Ginza: This casual yakitori chain offers a wide variety of skewered meats and vegetables at affordable prices. They have several locations throughout Tokyo, including one in the heart of Ginza, just a short walk from the Ginza Six shopping complex and the Imperial Palace. Price: Skewers start around ¥200-¥300 (USD $1.50-$2.20) per skewer.

• Bird Land, Marunouchi: This Michelin-starred yakitori restaurant offers a more upscale and refined yakitori experience. They use high-quality ingredients and have a wide variety of unique skewer options. While not located in Ginza, their Marunouchi location is still considered central and easily accessible. Price: Expect to pay a premium for the Michelin star experience, with skewers starting around ¥500-¥1,000 (USD $3.70-$7.40) each.

• Toritama, Shinjuku: This yakitori restaurant offers an extensive menu of chicken skewers, as well as other Japanese dishes like grilled vegetables and rice bowls. They also have a large selection of sake and other alcoholic beverages. Their Shinjuku location is conveniently located near the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Price: Skewers start around ¥300-¥400 (USD $2.20-$3.00) each.

• Yakiniku Champion Shibuya: This casual yakitori restaurant chain is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. They offer a wide variety of grilled meats, vegetables and other dishes at affordable prices. Their Shibuya location is just a short walk from the Shibuya Crossing and the Hachiko statue. Price: Skewers start around ¥200-¥300 (USD $1.50-$2.20) each.

• Yakiniku Ban Asakusa: This yakitori restaurant is located in the Asakusa district, near the Sensoji Temple and the Tokyo Skytree. They offer a variety of grilled meats and vegetables, as well as other Japanese dishes. Price: Skewers start around ¥300-¥400 (USD $2.20-$3.00) each.

Splurge

• Sugalabo Veau Ginza: Experience an exceptional steakhouse experience at SUGALABO Veau Ginza, renowned for its premium cuts of Japanese Wagyu beef and attentive service. Their menu features various cuts of Wagyu, cooked to perfection using a unique charcoal grilling technique. Expect to pay a premium for this luxurious dining experience, with prices starting around ¥20,000 (USD $148.00) and above.

• Ginza Steakhouse Kurosawa: Immerse yourself in a luxurious steakhouse experience at Ginza Steakhouse Kurosawa, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its melt-in-your-mouth Kobe beef. Their signature dish, the "Kurosawa Special", features a generous portion of Kobe beef cooked to perfection on a teppanyaki grill. Prices start around ¥30,000 (USD $222.00) and above.

• Quintessence Ginza: A Michelin three-starred establishment, offers an exceptional dining experience that may include high-quality meat options alongside other culinary delights. Their "Quintessential Lunch Course" features seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation, showcasing the chef's creativity and mastery of culinary techniques. Prices start around ¥35,000 (USD $260.00) for this exceptional lunch experience.

Foodie Tips:

• Look for restaurants with plastic food displays outside, which showcase their offerings visually.

• Many restaurants offer set menus, often a more economical option than ordering a la carte.

• Tipping is not customary in Japan, so a simple "Arigato gozaimashita" (Thank you very much) is sufficient.

• Consider exploring local neighborhoods like Shibuya or Shinjuku for a wider range of budget-friendly options.

• Be adventurous and try something new! Japan offers a vast culinary landscape waiting to be explored.

Additional Tips:

• Reservations are highly recommended for high-end restaurants, especially during peak lunch and dinner times. Consider booking well in advance to secure your desired spot.

• Be prepared for a longer dining experience compared to a typical lunch, as these restaurants often involve multiple courses and attentive service.

• Dress code might be slightly more formal compared to casual restaurants. While formal attire is not required, smart casual is generally recommended.