Konichiwa Tokyo! Tokyo is really one of a kind and a city full of contrast. Modern, but traditions are present. Crowded, but surprisingly clean. Loud and busy, but also tranquil and calm. For one thing you can be sure, there is never a dull moment in Tokyo. So go out and experience the many weird and wonderful things that Tokyo has to offer.
1. Eat lots of Sushi
Before traveling to Tokyo, I was super excited to try sushi in the country of its origin. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. We had sushi almost every day, because yes – it is that good!
2. See the Cherry Blossom
My boyfriend and I actually did not realize that it is the beginning of cherry blossom season when we booked our flight to Tokyo for the month of March. If you’re visiting Tokyo in spring, then make sure to head to Shinjuku Gyoen Park for the prettiest cherry blossom trees. Come early in the morning, if you want to avoid the crowds.
3. Cross the Shibuya Crossing
You cannot go to Tokyo and not cross the famous Shibuya crossing aka the world’s busiest crossing.
4. Explore the colorful neighborhood Harajuku
Harajuku was without a doubt one of my favorite places in Tokyo. Mostly because of Takeshita Street, a place full of quirky cafés, colorful desserts and fun boutiques. Must eats include huge rainbow colored fairy floss and Japanese crepes.
5. Have dinner at Piss Alley
Piss Alley is the nickname of a little corner in the district Shinjuku, otherwise called Omoide Yokocho in Japanese and translates to Memory Lane. These hidden and narrow alleys are visited by locals to enjoy some authentic yaktitori. It’s definitely worth a visit.
6. Drink with locals at Golden Gai
If you want to experience a night out in Tokyo, head to Golden Gai in Shinjuku. Golden Gai is not your usual night out scene. Imagine a few tiny alleyways packed with over 100 bars that only fit a few guests paired with a crazy past (look it up!) and interesting architecture.
7. Enjoy an evening in Shinjuku
Shinjuku is Tokyo’s entertainment district. It is known for the giant Godzilla statue on top of a roof and the crazy robot restaurant. Must visits in Shinjuku are Golden Gai, Memory Lane and Kabukicho, Tokyo’s red light district.
8. Go shopping at Don Quijote
Don Quijote shops are spread all over Tokyo. It’s basically a discount store that offers everything from snacks to beauty products, electric products and clothes. It’s the ideal place to buy some souvenirs from Japan and to just have fun discovering random things.
9. Try all the Weird and Wonderful Food
Tokyo is full of so much fun food. If you know me, then you know that tasting different foods abroad is one of my favorite things to do. From street food to traditional Japanese dishes at Keio Plaza, go ahead and don’t be afraid to try all these unknown flavors.
10. Get geeky in Akihabara
If you’re into anime and a little tech geek then this district is for you. Akihabara is home to everything related to anime and manga, video games and electronic goods.
11. Have a break at a Maid Café
I haven’t encountered anything similar to a Maid Café during my travels. I would describe this experience as weird, a little awkward, but really fun and unique. Waitresses are dressed up as maids and guests are being referred to as masters. There was also a little show and we played a game with our maid. We visited the café @home in Akihabara.
12. Take a walk to Meiji Shrine
Immerse yourself in Japanese culture and traditions by visiting the Meiji Shrine, which is dedicated to the Emporer Meiji and the Empress Shoken. The shrine is located in the Yoyogi Park near the Harajuku station. Take a walk through the park until reaching the shrine. Remember to be respectful while the locals make offerings and write down their wishes.
13. Experience the old Tokyo in Asakusa
Head to the Sensoji Temple by passing through the impressive Kaminari Gate. Then, take a stroll on Nakamise street to shop and eat some local specialities.
14. Have a play date in an Arcade Center
It has been our daily routine to head to one of the many arcade centers in Tokyo. It is literally so much fun and actually interesting to experience it for yourself (even if you’re not into gaming, like me). My personal favorite game: dance battle.
15. Go vintage shopping
Tokyo is not only a great place to go shopping in general, but also to go thrifting and to shop vintage. You can find luxury second hand items in Shibuya as well as in Harajuku. Harajuku and Shimokitazawa (a hipstery neighborhood) offer numerous thrift shops.
