J A P A N
T O K Y O
O V E R V I E W
Out of the once modest fishing village of Edo, Tokyo has transformed into one of the world's most dynamic metropolises, a true monster of scale.
Its evolution from the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate to the bustling capital of Japan is a testament to its resilience and adaptability, and the heartland of modern might.
There’s a cultural tapestry here woven from little islands of tradition. These are the ancient temples, and meticulously maintained gardens, and their immediate neighbourhoods.
But Tokyo is first and foremost a beacon of innovation, futuristic architecture, a pioneering fashion scene, and technological advancements that influence the world.
Culinary delights abound, from traditional sushi establishments to avant-garde eateries pushing the boundaries of gastronomy. Tokyo's markets, such as Tsukiji and Toyosu, provide fresh seafood that forms the backbone of its renowned cuisine.
The city's dedication to culinary excellence is evident in its numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, reflecting a deep respect for both tradition and innovation.
Ultimately, like every great metropolis, Tokyo is a city of contrasts and harmonies, where every corner reveals a blend of history and modernity, offering visitors an unparalleled journey through time and culture.
It's just that this particular one happens to be deeply Japanese, and therein lies everything that makes it so special.
Here's what we think should form the core of your experience:
Historic Temples, Shrines & Tokyo’s Spiritual Foundations
Amidst the urban sprawl, Tokyo’s sacred spaces offer a window into its ancient roots.
The iconic Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo’s oldest, is always a must-see, its imposing red gate and bustling Nakamise-dōri shopping street capturing the city’s Edo-period past.
Meiji Shrine, surrounded by forested parkland in Shibuya, stands in tribute to Emperor Meiji, offering a bit of quiet away from the city’s frenzy.
For those seeking lesser-known semi-hidden gems, explore Nezu Shrine’s torii gates or the atmospheric cemeteries and hidden temples scattered in districts like Yanaka.
Neighborhoods of Contrast: Shibuya, Ginza & Beyond
Each of Tokyo’s neighborhoods feels like its own distinct city.
In Shibuya, the famous scramble crossing, towering video screens, and neon lighting are an introduction to a particular expectation ofTokyo from the outside.
In Harajuku, street fashion and quirky cafés thrive alongside peaceful shrines. Ginza showcases Tokyo’s refined side, with polished galleries, flagship stores, and elegant dining.
Neighborhoods like Shimokitazawa, with its vintage shops and indie music venues, or the historic alleyways of Kagurazaka, filled with tiny izakayas and remnants of the city’s geisha culture, offer more or less endless room for exploration, which of course you are well-encouraged to lean into.
And of course, if you’ve seen Lost in Translation, the famous bar where Bill Murray & Scarlette Johansson meet is the Park Hyatt Tokyo’s New York Bar,
Cuisine in Tokyo: From Kaiseki to Konbini
Tokyo is one of the world’s greatest culinary capitals, and eating here is an art form, whether you’re perched at a Michelin-starred sushi counter or grabbing a snack at a 24-hour convenience store.
Start with the classics: Edomae sushi prepared in front of you, crisp tempura, soba noodles in an intimate local shop, or melt-in-your-mouth wagyu.
There is a particular joy in finding a perfect suishi bar. It is inevitably a neighbourhood spot, small, out of the way, with perhaps space for no more than 8 people at the bar. There will be two elderly chefs behind the bar, with their knives on a rack on the wall, battered handles showing years of use. The bar itself will be polished light wood kept immaculate. And above these, you'll see the week's Sake specials painted on vertical signs.
As a foreigner you may not be particularly welcome, and it can be helpful to quietly reassure the host at the door that you will happily try whatever the chef will prepare. And if you are allowed a spot, one can often win friends by ordering a bottle of hot sake and offering up a 'Kanpai!' politely to one's neighbours.
But there is a lot more on offer even than just this: Tokyo’s thriving contemporary food scene—ramen shops with cult followings, izakayas tucked under train tracks, and department store depachika food halls offering gourmet delicacies are all special experiences which are well worth the effort.
Even the humble konbini (convenience store) will surprise you with its high-quality snacks, fresh onigiri rice balls, and seasonal treats.
And of course, there’s the sheer spectacle of Tsukiji’s Outer Market, still one of the best places to witness Tokyo’s seafood culture firsthand.
By the way: while we normally don’t offer up specific restaurant recommendations, for the simple reason that the skill of learning to find great restaurants is much more valuable than compiling suggestions from online lists that you don’t fully understand… probably everyone who goes to Japan should have a ramen at Ichiran.
It’s a chain, it’s glorious, and consistent, and an experience in its own right. A sort of bucket-listy thing worth the effort.