From appreciating the beautiful cherry blossoms, to island-hopping in Okinawa, to snowboarding in Hokkaido, there are a gazillion issues to do in Japan. Because the capital of the Land of the Rising Solar, Tokyo is a vibrant and culturally wealthy metropolis; even having executed my fair proportion of big-city journey and having lived in Singapore and Hong Kong, Tokyo didn’t disappoint. When you might have greater than a weekend to absorb all of the goodness this metropolis has to supply, you should definitely test off my favorite issues to do in Tokyo beneath. Buckle up with a way of journey, a giant urge for food, and a love of the bizarre and brilliantly quirky!
Finest issues to do in Tokyo: A weekend information
1. Cross the Shibuya Crossing
How does a mere pedestrian crossing change into such a draw card, you ask? Properly, with as much as 3,000 folks crossing without delay, in all instructions at its busiest instances, Shibuya Crossing is certainly a must-see in Tokyo. With large video screens (some even with 3-D adverts towering above them), this busiest crossing in Japan, and presumably on the earth, is surreal to witness in motion. To achieve a enjoyable perspective, attempt experiencing Shibuya Crossing by immersing your self within the chaos of the road, earlier than trying down on the hoards from above. We stayed at Shibuya Excel Resort Tokyu the place we received a cracking view of Shibuya Crossing from contained in the Resort raise, including one other dimension to the expertise.
2. Go classic buying on Cat Avenue
You’d definitely know of the Cat Avenue in Hong Kong, however do you know there’s additionally a Cat Avenue within the coronary heart of Tokyo? Operating between Harajuku and Shibuya, the largely pedestrian alley is a haven for high-end trend, streetwear, sportswear, and classic equipment. Whether or not you’re a fan of thrifting or simply wish to nab a discount, don’t miss out on this buying mecca. My private choose is Ragtag. Recognized for its high-end manufacturers, this isn’t your common classic retailer. I managed to choose up a suede Golden Goose biker jacket with slightly below HK$800!
3. Head to Harajuku
On the finish of Cat Avenue, you’ll end up in Harajuku, a big neighbourhood which has lengthy been the house to cutting-edge trend. The style type right here is all in regards to the sense of neighborhood and freedom of expression, and naturally, enjoyable. We beloved strolling down Takeshita Avenue, because it’s the epicentre of color, enjoyable, and Japanese youth tradition. From cotton sweet retailers and costume shops, to crepe cafes and memento retailers, nothing is misplaced on Takeshita Dori.
4. Go to the Senso-ji
Arrive early within the morning to absorb the zen at Senso-ji, considered one of Tokyo’s most well-known temples. Some guests make use of huge cauldron in entrance of the temple, the place incense is burned for good well being. You can too try the attractive, five-story pagoda on the left.
5. Get jaw-dropped at TeamLab Planets Tokyo
I don’t usually have artwork exhibitions on my record of prime issues to do, however TeamLab Planets is a full-on, mind-blowing sensory expertise. From digital fish that flip into flowers, to interactive soundscapes to mild mazes, it is a agency must-see, must-do expertise in Tokyo.
6. Pop by the Tsukiji Fish Market
I really like the motion, smells, and depth of moist markets, and a seafood market simply makes it all of the extra interesting. The standard of the sashimi right here is unbeatable, and dishes solely begin at about HK$55. In the event you’re a foodie, this is likely one of the important locations to go to in Tokyo.
7. Go-kart in precise visitors!
Ever wished to attempt Mario Kart IRL? That is your probability! Solely in Tokyo are you able to hire a kart and do a self-drive expertise – even together with a dressing up of your favorite superhero or anime character. Simply be sure you have your Worldwide Driving Allow earlier than you permit house.
8. Chill out in Yoyogi Park
Masking an enormous 134 acres in Shibuya, Yoyogi Park is commonly full of buskers and picnickers. Want a break from all of the strolling and sightseeing? Head to the northern aspect for grassy lawns and much-needed shade from Japanese Zelkova timber. Spot impromptu badminton groups swinging their racquets, a drum circle tapping away, or newbie dancers following alongside to the beat.
9. Watch a sumo event
Catching a sumo event in Tokyo is all about timing, since solely three Grand Sumo Tournaments happen in Tokyo at Ryogoku Kokugikan. Whereas tamari seats are onerous to attain, field seats are your subsequent finest guess to affix the likes of over 11,000 followers within the venue, and watch the standard Japanese sport up shut.
10. Go for extra classic buying in Shimokitazawa
So, you may know by now that classic buying in Tokyo is a factor… And if that is your factor, the choice of classic retailers within the little neighbourhood of Shimokitazawa may simply knock your socks off. If cafe- and restaurant-hopping is in your record of issues to do in Tokyo, you should definitely sift by way of the number of retailers right here. Sip on a espresso, and bask within the vibes.
11. Experience to the highest of Tokyo Skytree
Although tickets aren’t low cost, Tokyo Skytree offers a shocking 360-degree view of the entire metropolis. These of you who love a quick elevator experience and an exciting view from the tallest tower on the earth might want to put this in your record of issues to do in Tokyo.
12. Go to Ueno Park throughout cherry blossom season
From a museum to a zoo, to historic monuments, the huge Ueno Park homes quite a few points of interest. You possibly can simply spend a day right here, particularly throughout spring when sakura blooms throughout the park. Cameras out!
13. Go on a Tokyo meals tour
If you wish to acquire first-hand perception into the tradition behind Japanese meals, then I extremely advocate happening a Tokyo meals tour. Some excursions are brief – good for a meal and a stroll; whereas one other tour operator might supply longer excursions that go as much as eight hours – perfect for many who choose others to do the planning.
14. Store at Uniqlo
Who doesn’t have a chunk (or two) of Uniqlo of their wardrobe? This Japanese informal put on model has a large world following, credit to its high quality, sturdiness, and affordability. From the in-store expertise to the vary of things on supply, visiting a Uniqlo retailer in Tokyo is a deal with. We beloved the department in Shinjuku the very best.
15. Have enjoyable in Tokyo Disneyland
For these travelling with little people, Tokyo Disneyland has received to make the record of finest issues to do in Tokyo. With a whopping 110 acres for household enjoyable, together with the a lot beloved Tomorrowland and Adventureland, this theme park attraction is undoubtedly the Happiest Place on Earth.
16. Get a cuteness overload at a hedgehog cafe
In case you have a weak point for all issues cute, you’ll take pleasure in getting up shut and private with the spiky little fellas at a hedgehog cafe. Assembly the passionate cafe employees who beloved tending for the animals (with gloves on, after all!) was fairly particular for us, too.
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