Tokyo is a modern, fast-paced city that wholeheartedly embraces its traditional roots. You see it all from tranquil Japanese gardens and historic temples to talking robots and shopping districts purely dedicated to anime and gaming culture. Below, you’ll find my top recommendations for what to do.
Museums: If you’re an avid museumgoer like me, check out the Yayoi Kusama Museum (tickets need to be booked well in advance online), Mori Art Museum and TeamLab Planets.
Viewing Points: For 360° sky-high views of the city, Shibuya Scramble Square is incredible, especially just before sunset. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building has a free observation deck for tourists too.
Shopping: Shopping in Japan is a culture in itself! You should definitely keep that in mind when it comes to your luggage allowances. You don’t want to leave this city empty-handed, even if it means buying another suitcase for the trip home like me.
Shibuya is a major shopping hub that has pretty much every kind of store you may be looking for. From high street to luxury to concept stores and independent boutiques in the backstreets of Harajuku, you can easily spend a few days shopping around.
Ginza is another big shopping district, where you’ll find a lot of well-known luxury stores and shopping malls.
Hama-rikyu Gardens: This is one of my favourite spots in Tokyo. A gorgeous garden in the midst of the city skyscrapers, it’s the perfect place to unwind and take a second to just appreciate your surroundings. I highly recommend visiting the tea house for some matcha green tea and traditional Japanese desserts.
Neighbourhoods to Visit: One of my favourite neighbourhoods has to be Shimokitazawa. It is a haven for those who love to shop vintage. You will find plenty of cute spots to eat here too.
A new discovery for me is Kagurazaka. It’s a fashionable shopping and dining neighbourhood perfect for people-watching and having a chill day.
A Day Trip to Kawaguchiko: The skies are typically very blue and clear during winter, so it’s the best time to plan a trip to get closer views of the mighty Mount Fuji. I would highly recommend spending a day or two around Kawaguchiko or any other neighbouring towns for a change of scenery and, of course, major views of Fuji.