Tsukiji Fish Market
The biggest and most famous fish market in the world supplies seafood to Tokyo's top restos (and the rest of the globe). Tourists swamp the periphery but it's the hard-to-access inner market where the action happens.
Meiji Jingu Shrine
A tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, a stroll through Tokyo’s most famous Shinto shrine is like being transported back in time.
Shibuya Crossing
Have you ever seen a thousand people cross the road at once? Well this is your chance. Surrounded by neon. The synchronized chaos is strangely satisfying...
Akihabara
Tokyo's one-time electronics neighborhood turned home of otaku geek culture, anime and maid cafes. It's gaming central too.
Harajuku
The kawaii capital of Tokyo and home to Takeshita Street, where you can browse quirky clothes shops and have your photo taken in a purikura booth. Ready with those finger bunny ears?
Palace Sakura
The moat surrounding the Imperial Palace boasts spectacular pink cherry blossoms in Spring. It's a great spot for photos the rest of the year too.
Sushi
There’s literally no better
place in the world to have sushi. From the inexpensive conveyer belt variety to omakase sushi served by legendary masters, the
options are endless.
Ramen
This Japanese comfort
food has over 20 regional styles. From tonkotsu (pork based) to kogashi ('burnt') ramen, it's choosing from nearly 60,000 ramen shops that becomes the
challenge!
Yakitori
Delectable skewers of
juicy chicken or vegetables
best cooked over binchotan charcoal. Beautifully simple but incredibly delicious if done well, even the humble tomato becomes a moreish delicacy in the right hands.
Tonkatsu
Deep fried pork cutlets. Sometimes served with shredded cabbage and miso soup, sometimes curried, sometimes wedged into a sandwich. Always delicious though.
Matcha Tea
Green tea leaves grown
in the shade and then crushed into a powder form the basis of this quintessential Japanese tea experience. Throw in some wagashi (small Japanese confections) and you've got yourself a real treat.
Soba
Soba, aka buckwheat
noodles, vary greatly in quality. Some chefs train for years to make the perfect version. Often served cold with a dashi and soy dipping sauce, this is one dish where noisy slurping is encouraged!
Mandarin Oriental
When service matters, look no further than the Mandarin. Classy touches abound, from the beautiful kimono you're given on arrival to the locally sourced ingredients that make up the breakfast table. Oh and they also have 3 different restaurants that have all been awarded Michelin Stars. Not bad for one property!
Okura
Old school charm and flawless omotenashi (selfless hospitality) characterise this grand dame, which has been welcoming dignitaries and prominent guests since 1962.
Hoshinoya
A self-proclaimed ryokan (traditional inn) in the city, Hoshinoya takes the art of the peaceful escape seriously. A no-shoes policy, beautiful breakfasts and truly delightful interiors make this hotel a true gem.
Trunk Hotel
This boutique hotel in the heart of Omotesando boasts gorgeous design, comfortable rooms at reasonable rates and numerous reasons to enjoy yourself, including regular parties open to locals.