Tokyo holds a special place in my heart as one of my favorite cities in the world. In 2017, I made a vision board and included Tokyo because it had been a lifelong dream of mine—my first stepmom is Japanese. In 2018, I brought that vision to life when I joined Remote Year and spent a month exploring Japan. I fell in love with Tokyo, from its people to its culture and cuisine. Years later, I returned to Japan with my fiancé for his first visit, and I couldn’t have been happier to experience it again with him

When we arrived, we spent four nights at The Edition, then traveled to Kyoto Four Seasons for three nights before returning to Tokyo for three more nights at Amam Tokyo.

I have had so many friends ask me about Tokyo recommendations so here is a list of my favorite things to do and food to eat!

MOST POPULAR AREAS IN TOKYO:

1. Shinjuku: Known for its bustling atmosphere and vibrant nightlife, Shinjuku is a major commercial and entertainment district. It offers a range of accommodations from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, with convenient access to shopping, dining, and transportation.
2. Shibuya: Famous for the iconic Shibuya Crossing and its trendy, youthful vibe, Shibuya is a great choice for those wanting to be in the heart of Tokyo’s fashion and entertainment scene. It features a variety of hotels, from high-end to more affordable choices.
3. Ginza: Tokyo’s upscale shopping district, Ginza is known for its luxury boutiques, fine dining, and elegant hotels. It’s ideal for those seeking a sophisticated and central location with easy access to high-end shopping and cultural attractions.
4. Asakusa: Home to the historic Senso Ji Temple, Asakusa offers a more traditional side of Tokyo. It’s a charming area with a mix of cultural sites, local markets, and budget-friendly accommodations, making it a great choice for those interested in experiencing Tokyo’s historic charm.
5. Roppongi: Known for its vibrant nightlife, international dining options, and cultural landmarks like the Mori Art Museum, Roppongi is popular among expats and tourists alike. It offers a range of upscale hotels and is well-connected to other parts of Tokyo.
6. Tokyo Station/Marunouchi: This area is ideal for those seeking convenience, especially if you’re traveling in and out of Tokyo via the Shinkansen (bullet train). It features luxury hotels and easy access to transportation, shopping, and dining.
7. Harajuku: Famous for its quirky fashion scene and youthful energy, Harajuku is a vibrant area with trendy shops, cafes, and cultural spots. It’s a great place for those wanting to experience Tokyo’s eclectic fashion and street culture.

THINGS TO DO

1. Senso Ji Temple: Tokyo’s oldest temple, rich in history and culture.
2. Meiji Shrine: A Shinto shrine dicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, located in a serene forested area of 120,000 trees in Shibuya.
3. Shibuya Crossing: One of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. For a unique perspective, I highly recommend seeing Shibuya from above—head to Shibuya Parlor at Magnet, order a coffee or tea, and enjoy the stunning views.
4. Walk around Shinjuku at Night: The vibrant nightlife and neon lights are incredible. There are tons of izakayas to eat at including Shinjuku Food Court and Omoide Yokocho
5. Harajuku Street: Famous for its quirky fashion and street food – make sure to find the Gachapon Machines: Fun capsule toy vending machines scattered throughout Tokyo.
6. Pig Cafe: A unique cafe experience where you can interact with adorable pigs.
7. Amore Chanel: For anyone who loves Chanel as much as I do – a store selling vintage Chanel bags.
8. Walk around Ginza: Known as the Rodeo Drive of Tokyo, it is perfect for high-end shopping.
9. Ginza Six Department Store: Luxury shopping with a variety of brands – make sure to go to the basement level to find all kinds of specialty foods and gifts to bring home.
10. Lion Shibuya: Not a tourist trip – A unique spot for tea and listening to vinyl records.
11. Roppngi Hills – Havana 1950 Club: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and excellent cocktails
12. Tsukiji Fish Market: a must for sushi lovers
13. The Golden Street: features wooden tenements from the post-war era and houses around 280 restaurants and is perfect for bar-hopping

FOOD:

We enjoyed a diverse array of meals, ranging from a comforting bowl of ramen to Michelin-starred sushi. Here are some of my favorites:

1. Wagyu Mafia: Offers an extraordinary Wagyu beef dining experience.
2. Udatsu Omakase Sushi: An intimate Omakase sushi experience with only 13 seats.
3. Pizza Studio Tamaki: Michelin-starred pizza that’s a must-try for pizza lovers.
4. Ichiran Ramen: Famous for its unique dining booths and delectable ramen.
5. Seryna Shabu Shabu: Traditional Japanese hot pot meal served by women in kimonos. One of my favorite meals of the entire trip!
6. Shinjuku Food Court: A must-visit for a diverse selection of Japanese foods.
7. Ginza Six Department Store Basement: An essential stop to discover specialty Japanese foods.
8. Daimaru Tokyo Basement: A high-end grocery store and food hall that offers everything from Japanese luxury fruit to bento boxes and prepared dishes.
9. Cafe RonRon: A sweet tooth’s paradise with all-you-can-eat conveyor belt desserts.
10. Dawn Avatar Robot Cafe: A futuristic dining experience with robot avatars controlled by disabled people from different cities and countries.
11. Gonpachi Nishiazabu: Known as the Kill Bill restaurant, offering great food, sake, and ambiance.
12. Kura Conveyor Belt Sushi: Casual, fun, and delicious sushi.
13. Aman Tokyo Lounge: Designed to resemble a traditional shoji paper lantern, this lounge offers panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline, all-day dining, Aman Tokyo’s specialty afternoon tea, and finely crafted cocktails, all
14. Tatsu Ramen: Michelin star ramen – Slow-cooked Tonkotsu broth, finished with a perfect blend of 11 bold ingredients
15. Chao Chao Gyoza: Very delicious vegetarian and meat gyoza.
16. Omoide Yokocho: opened around 1946 after WWII and offers numerous small restaurants and food stalls that offer typical izakaya food.

TOP FOODS TO TRY IN JAPAN:

• Sushi
• Yakitori
• Okonomiyaki
• Ramen
• Mochi
• Onigiri
• Gyoza
• Tamagoyaki
• Matcha Tea/ Matcha Tea Snacks
• Kare Raisu
• Takoyaki
• Shabu Shabu
• Omurice

Here is a blog post on the “Top 17 Foods to Try in Japan”