- Aug 9

Everything Japan

A place I never knew I needed to visit.

How to travel?

Travelling to Japan couldn’t be easier, a long-haul flight of around 12 hours direct to Haneda, Tokyo from London; also departing from most major international airports in Europe.

How to Get Around?

Once arriving at the airport, it can be a little overwhelming, since 2019 there has been an increase in English signage and information points to help. Overall, the best way to travel around Tokyo is the subway, it’s straightforward to navigate once you get your head around the map.

If you’re in Tokyo for 5 days or more, I recommend getting a PASMO or SUICA card, they are rechargeable contactless cards, and you can purchase these at the airport and train stations.

For more information, this is a useful guide.

Otherwise, you can purchase day travel cards, which are slightly limiting as they only cover certain trains/subways. In contrast, the cards allow access to all modes of transport including, buses and trams.

Tokyo

Where to stay?

Budget

I am sure you have heard of the pod/capsule hostels in Japan. Even if a hostel isn’t your thing, I recommend it just for the experience.

Book & Bed have two great locations, Shinjuku City in Tokyo and Shinsaibashisji in Osaka. Each pod is hidden within the bookshelves.

Tip: Depending on the time of year, I would check if they have air-con as the pods can get very hot.

Mid-Range

Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo

A great location just by Shinjuku station but slightly out of the way from the chaos. They have quite a few room categories, so something for everyone.

Luxury

Park Hyatt Tokyo

It has iconic rooftop views, and it is also down the road from Shinjuku station, a great location to access areas of Tokyo.

Janu

Opened in March 2024, Janu Tokyo is the first of many destinations of the Janu group. A brand to watch as they ‘redefine travel with purpose’ with experiences across dining, wellness and culture.

The Tokyo EDITION

No introduction is needed The EDITION is a ‘new generation’ and compilatory luxury hotel worldwide.

@Park Hyatt @Janu @EDITION

Where to eat?

Soba Ginza Kagari for Reman, isn’t a vegetarian-friendly spot, but I have sat in the restaurant 3 times while others have eaten. That is how good it is, the queue outside forms about 30 mins before opening and normal waiting time is about an hour. Worth the wait, the queue does move quickly, and everyone is friendly. If you are eating alone you can often get in quicker as they like to fill up the seats.

T’s Tantan is for veggie ramen, as these aren’t easy to find and very tasty.

Gonpachi is known for the famous Kill Bill scene but is also for soba noodles, grilled skewers, and tempura.

Seryna – outstanding food, known for steak and lobster. Highly recommend it for a special occasion or a treat.

Japanese Maid Cafés, originated in Akihabara, an unfamiliar concept to many, the maids/hosts greet all customers/guests as masters and serve ‘cute looking’ food and drinks; they will also perform in song and dance. Not for everyone but an unforgettable experience.

MomoParadise in Shinjuku is great for dinner. Very meat heavy and cooking your own

Pokemon Café is really fun and great for all ages. Reservations are essential, you can do this from from 6:00 PM, 31 days before your desired date, you must be on it as it gets fully booked within seconds.

Sushi Conveyer belts - you will find these all over Japan and great for lunch or a quick bite. Very addicted as they are all so good and cost-effective.

Note: Late-night eating is very common, so don’t be surprised to see well-established places open until the early hours.

@Pokeamon Cafe @Seryna @Soba

Where to shop?

Harajuku is known for its quirky style and vintage shopping along Takeshita Street and slightly more upmarket stores on Omotesando Avenue.

GINZA SIX for high-end luxury shopping, you will find everything here.

Where to visit / Things to do?

1. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is lovely for a morning walk and feels like a little escape from the city.

2. The famous Shibuya Crossing is the largest pedestrian crossing in the world. There is also a viewing platform you can pay for but there are also a few cafes halfway up with great views.

3. Asakusa is located North of the city, here you will find many temples and historical buildings, including Sensō-ji, Tokyo's oldest-established temple. Catch the train to Asakusa-Kaminarimon station; head to the temple gates and then straight up Nakamise-dori Street. This is a great area for strolling around and some amazing photo opportunities.

4. Akihabara is Tokyo’s anime, manga, video game, and figurine cultural centre. A great area to spend the day playing arcade games. Try the famous Pokémon-themed pastry – taiyaki magikarp.

5. Park Hyatt Tokyo for Drinks. The view is amazing, also seen in the movie Lost in Translation.

6. Tokyo Tower for great views across the metropolis

7. Kabukicho is an absolute must for all sorts of nightlife, from robot shows, karaoke and the Golden-Gai.

8. Golden-Gai is made up of about 280 over 6 small alleys. For a very intimate social drinking experience. Bars are only able to hold 4 – 15 guests, normally formalities do not apply. This is an amazing place to meet all kinds of people from all walks of life.

9. Tsukiji fish market – largest fish market in the world.

10. TeamLab – immersive art exhibition.

11. Street karting – ensure you check you have the correct driving license, if you are from the UK you need to apply for an overseas license.