A Week in Japan

Arrive in Tokyo, a city that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology. Check into your accommodation, whether it's a traditional ryokan or a modern hotel, and take some time to rest and refresh after your journey.

BONUS: If you are staying at the Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills, a luxurious 5-star hotel in the heart of the city, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Tokyo skyline from your room's floor-to-ceiling windows. Enjoy the hotel's modern design, exceptional service and upscale amenities, making it a perfect base for your Tokyo adventure. Here are some of the perks you will get if you book through me: Welcome letter from hotel leadership on behalf of the travel advisor and their agency.

• Welcome amenity provided to guests upon arrival.

• Daily complimentary full breakfast at a hotel restaurant for up to two guests.

• Property credit (value varies by property).

• Priority for room upgrade (response within 24 hours of booking, subject to forecasted occupancy, not available at all-inclusives)

• Early check-in/late check-out/connecting rooms (response within 24 hours of request, subject to forecasted occupancy, earliest check-in is 9 AM, latest checkout: 4 PM)

Get familiar with the neighborhood around your accommodation. Depending on your location, you might find yourself in the bustling streets of Shibuya, the historic charm of Asakusa, the vibrant energy of Shinjuku or the trendy district of Harajuku. Take a leisurely stroll to soak in the atmosphere and get a glimpse of what Tokyo has to offer. (TIP: Make sure you make a note of which train station is closest to your accommodation.)

As the evening sets in, venture out to experience a quintessential Japanese evening at an izakaya, a traditional pub where locals unwind after work. Order a selection of small plates known as "izakaya-style" dishes, such as yakitori (grilled skewers), edamame (young soybeans) or tempura (deep-fried vegetables or seafood). Pair your meal with some sake or try a refreshing highball made with Japanese whiskey.

After dinner, you might want to explore the nearby streets, observing the neon lights and vibrant signs that contribute to Tokyo's iconic cityscape. If you're in a bustling district like Shibuya or Shinjuku, consider crossing the famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, as the lights change and crowds surge.

End your first day in Tokyo with a sense of excitement and wonder, knowing that you have a whole week ahead to delve deeper into the captivating experiences this brilliant city has to offer.

Begin your day by exploring Asakusa, where you'll find Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest and most famous temple. Take in the imposing Thunder Gate (Kaminarimon) and stroll down Nakamise Street, lined with colorful shops selling traditional snacks and souvenirs.

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture by participating in a traditional tea ceremony at a teahouse in Asakusa Jidaiya. Savor the carefully prepared matcha (green tea) and learn about the art and etiquette of this centuries-old ritual.

Visit the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park, housing an extensive collection of art and artifacts that showcase Japan's cultural heritage from prehistory to modern times. Explore exhibits on ceramics, samurai armor, calligraphy and more.

Head to Odaiba, an artificial island with a futuristic atmosphere. Visit TeamLab Borderless, an interactive digital art museum, where you can immerse yourself in mesmerizing and ever-changing digital artworks that blur the lines between art and technology.

Explore the Miraikan (National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation) to learn about cutting-edge scientific advancements and robotics in Japan. Interact with humanoid robots and discover the latest developments in space exploration and artificial intelligence.

Take a relaxing cruise on Tokyo Bay, enjoying panoramic views of the city's skyline, Rainbow Bridge and other iconic landmarks from the water. (Opt for a dinner cruise to combine sightseeing with a delectable meal.)

Embark on a day trip to Kamakura, a historic coastal town with numerous temples, shrines and natural beauty. Visit Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, an important Shinto shrine with a beautiful wooden bridge and pond.

Explore Hase-dera Temple, known for its serene garden and the tall Kannon statue with breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Don't miss Kotoku-in Temple, home to the iconic Great Buddha, a massive bronze statue dating back to the 13th century.

Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Yuigahama Beach or visit Enoshima Island, where you can climb to the top for stunning views of Sagami Bay and Mount Fuji on clear days.

Start the day by visiting Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Stroll through various themed gardens, including Japanese, French and English styles and witness the beauty of cherry blossoms in spring (seasonal).

Visit the Meiji Shrine, a majestic Shinto shrine surrounded by a lush forest in the trendy neighborhood of Harajuku. Take part in a prayer ritual and write wishes on wooden ema plaques.

Walk through the Imperial Palace East Gardens, located next to the Imperial Palace, and learn about Japan's imperial history while enjoying the picturesque landscapes and historic ruins.

Spend the morning shopping in fashionable neighborhoods like Harajuku, known for its quirky fashion boutiques and Omotesando lined with luxury brand stores. Indulge in some retail therapy and pick up unique souvenirs to take back home.

For lunch, try traditional Japanese dishes such as sushi, tempura or ramen at a local restaurant. Alternatively, experience the novelty of themed cafés, ranging from animal cafés to character-themed eateries.

Visit the bustling Tsukiji Outer Market, where you can sample fresh seafood and other Japanese delicacies. Try some sushi at one of the local restaurants or savor street food like takoyaki (octopus balls) and taiyaki (fish-shaped filled pastries).

Start the day by visiting Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree to capture breathtaking views of the city from observation decks. Marvel at Tokyo's impressive skyline and iconic landmarks from above.

Explore the contemporary art galleries and exhibits at Roppongi Hills, a modern cultural hub. Alternatively, visit the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo, for a diverse range of cutting-edge artworks.

Spend the afternoon in Akihabara, the electric town, famous for its anime, manga and electronics shops. Delve into the world of Japanese pop culture and find unique collectibles and gadgets to bring home as souvenirs.

End your last evening in Tokyo with a memorable dinner at one of the city's Michelin-starred restaurants, where skilled chefs will take you on a culinary journey through refined Japanese cuisine. Alternatively, try a Kaiseki, a traditional multi-course meal that beautifully showcases seasonal and regional ingredients.