WHERE TO STAY:
Tokyo: the city of lights, crowds, and a unique culture unlike anywhere else I have seen. Tokyo has several different neighborhoods to choose from that we found it a bit overwhelming to choose which one was our best option. During our visit, we selected Shinjuku as our desired location and had a difficult time finding reasonable lodging in this area. We ended up getting a room at Shinjuku Prince Hotel, which was in a great location and had everything that you needed for a good stay. However, if we were to have done it differently we would have stayed in an airbnb rather than a hotel to get a feel for what it’s like to live more like a local.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO:
1. Harajuku (neighborhood renowned for its colorful street art and fashion scene, with quirky vintage clothing stores and cosplay shops).
2. Shibuya Crossing (Time Square of Tokyo)
3. Asakusa (40 min train ride from Shinjuku. The main point of interest is the Senso-ji temple but there are also many shops and restaurants as well- P.S. if you are a bunny lover, be sure to check out Ms. Bunny Cafe)
5. Dog heart café (stop in and play with the dogs and also take them for a walk in the park)
7. Kabuchiko (red light district)
8. Kyoto (Great for a 1-2 day trip from Tokyo – can be reached 2.5 hours on the train. I have links below for how to get there and an itinerary for once you have arrived).
WHERE TO EAT:
1. Florilege
2. New York Grill (yes, I know the name doesn’t make it all that enticing but the live entertainment is great and the views are incredible. If anything, come for a drink!)
3. Sometaro Asakusa trip (cash only)
4. Menya Mushassi
5. Tempura Tsunahachi
6. Halal Ramen (some of the best ramen I have ever had- highly recommend)!
7. Teppan Baby
8. Sarabeths (good for brunch)
Michelin Star
6. Ishikawa (hidden garden alley)
7. Ginza Kojyu
WHERE TO DRINK:
Coffee Shops
1. Fulgen
2. Blue bottle coffee
Cocktails
1. Ben Fiddich
2. Bar Private Pod
3. Albatross
4. Shotbar Zoetrope
5. New York Bar
6. Bar High Five
Passage Seventeen. 