Welcome to Tokyo, a city where ancient traditions and cutting-edge innovation seamlessly blend. From the serene temples of Asakusa to the dazzling lights of Shibuya, Tokyo is a city that enchants with its contrasts. A culinary paradise, it boasts everything from Michelin-starred sushi to hidden ramen shops. Tokyo is not just a city to explore—it’s an experience to savor.
In this vibrant metropolis, you can stroll through tranquil gardens, shop in luxury districts like Ginza, and witness a skyline punctuated by towering skyscrapers. Tokyo promises something unforgettable for every traveler, making every day truly the Best Day Ever.
The Small List
Best Hotels
The Peninsula Tokyo: An Oasis in the Heart of the City
The Peninsula Tokyo combines modern elegance with traditional Japanese hospitality, offering an unparalleled experience for travelers. Conveniently located in the Marunouchi district, near the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Station, the hotel provides easy access to Tokyo’s top attractions, shopping, and cultural sites.
A highlight of the hotel is the Peninsula Spa, which offers a range of rejuvenating treatments inspired by ancient healing traditions. The spa features luxurious facilities, including a swimming pool, sauna, and fitness center, providing guests with a serene escape from the bustling city. Additionally, The Peninsula Tokyo is renowned for its exceptional service.
Insider Tip: The hotel offers a unique Peninsula Academy, where guests can participate in immersive cultural experiences, such as sushi-making classes, traditional tea ceremonies, and guided tours of nearby attractions. This program enriches your stay and provides a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.
Mandarin Oriental: A Fusion of Luxury and Culture
The Mandarin Oriental Tokyo is a five-star hotel that beautifully marries contemporary elegance with traditional Japanese hospitality. Located in the heart of Nihonbashi, this hotel offers stunning views of the Tokyo skyline and is ideally situated for exploring the city’s rich cultural and historical landmarks.
Many rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views of the iconic Tokyo skyline and the nearby Imperial Palace. IN addition, the hotel’s Mandarin Bar is also a must-visit, offering expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish setting.
Aman: Serenity in the Heart of the City
Aman Tokyo offers a unique blend of luxury, tranquility, and traditional Japanese design, situated in the bustling financial district of Otemachi. As part of the prestigious Aman Resorts, this hotel stands out for its spacious accommodations, which feature floor-to-ceiling windows that provide breathtaking views of the Tokyo skyline and nearby landmarks like the Imperial Palace.
The hotel’s interiors reflect a modern take on Japanese aesthetics, showcasing natural materials such as wood, stone, and rice paper. Each of the 84 guest rooms and suites is designed to create a serene oasis, allowing guests to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. The suites are particularly spacious, featuring open layouts that include separate living areas, and some even come with private terraces.
A highlight of the Aman experience is the luxurious Aman Spa, which draws inspiration from Japanese wellness traditions. The spa features an array of treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind, including massages, facials, and relaxation therapies. Guests can unwind in the serene surroundings of the spa, which includes a beautiful pool and fitness center.
Bvlgari Hotel Tokyo: A Luxurious Urban Oasis
If you’re seeking an unparalleled luxury experience in Tokyo, look no further than the Bvlgari Hotel Tokyo. Nestled in the heart of Marunouchi, this exquisite hotel combines contemporary Italian design with the elegance of Japanese hospitality, creating a unique atmosphere that is both opulent and welcoming.
From the moment you step inside, the hotel’s design captivates with its elegant lines and luxurious materials. The spacious rooms and suites feature high ceilings, large windows, and breathtaking views of Tokyo’s skyline, including the iconic Tokyo Tower and Imperial Palace. Each detail reflects a blend of Italian craftsmanship and Japanese aesthetics, making for a truly immersive experience.
Dining at Bvlgari Hotel Tokyo is nothing short of exceptional. The hotel’s flagship restaurant, Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, has earned two Michelin stars for its innovative take on Italian cuisine, showcasing seasonal ingredients with a distinct Japanese flair. The experience is further enhanced by the Bvlgari Bar, where guests can enjoy classic cocktails and an impressive selection of wines in an elegant setting.
New Otani Tokyo is a remarkable blend of luxury, tradition, and modern comfort, making it an ideal base for travelers seeking to experience the vibrant city of Tokyo. Nestled amid a stunning 400-year-old Japanese garden, the hotel offers a tranquil escape from the bustling metropolis outside its doors.
One of the highlights of staying at New Otani is the chance to enjoy an exclusive breakfast experience in the hotel’s picturesque rooftop rose garden, which showcases around 30,000 blooming flowers.
Gorakadan – A Luxurious Relais & Châteaux Experience in Hakone
Nestled in the serene mountains of Hakone, Gorakadan is a stunning Relais & Châteaux hotel that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese hospitality with modern luxury. With its breathtaking views of nature and a commitment to providing an unforgettable experience, Gorakadan is the perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and rejuvenation.
The hotel features elegantly designed guest rooms, many of which come equipped with private hot springs (onsen) that allow guests to unwind in complete privacy while soaking in the therapeutic mineral waters. The tranquil setting is complemented by beautiful gardens, where visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls amidst meticulously landscaped grounds.
Dining at Gorakadan is a culinary delight, showcasing seasonal ingredients through exquisite kaiseki meals. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared and presented, reflecting the hotel’s dedication to Japanese culinary arts. Guests can indulge in both traditional Japanese flavors and international cuisines, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Gorakadan’s commitment to wellness extends beyond its accommodations and dining. The hotel offers various activities and amenities, including guided nature walks, meditation sessions, and spa treatments, allowing guests to immerse themselves in relaxation and rejuvenation.
Gorakadan stands out as a premier destination for those looking to experience the beauty of Japan’s natural landscape combined with the comforts of luxury living. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful soak in your private onsen or savoring a beautifully crafted meal, Gorakadan promises an exceptional getaway that nourishes both the body and soul.
Best Restaurants
Tenmasa in Asakusa offers a refined traditional Japanese dining experience, focusing on Ozashiki Tempura — a style where tempura is served in an intimate, tatami-matted dining room (ozashiki). This restaurant combines an authentic Japanese ambiance with meticulous craftsmanship in each dish. Guests enjoy tempura, fried to golden perfection, prepared with seasonal ingredients and served fresh from the fryer. The delicate balance of light, crispy batter and high-quality ingredients showcases the precision and care that goes into every plate.
Located in the cultural heart of Tokyo, Tenmasa is a hidden gem for those seeking both culinary excellence and a serene dining experience, blending history and tradition. Perfect for those wanting to experience high-end tempura in an authentic, traditional setting.
A hidden gem for sushi lovers in Tokyo, Matsukan, located in the upscale Azabu Juban district, is a must-visit for sushi enthusiasts seeking an authentic culinary experience. Renowned for its meticulously crafted sushi and sashimi, Matsukan offers a cozy yet refined atmosphere, making it perfect for both intimate dinners and casual lunches.
The restaurant prides itself on using the freshest ingredients sourced directly from Tokyo’s renowned fish markets, ensuring every dish is bursting with flavor. Diners can choose from an extensive menu, but the omakase (chef’s choice) is particularly recommended for those wanting to experience the best of what Matsukan has to offer. Each piece of sushi is expertly prepared and beautifully presented, showcasing the chef’s skill and attention to detail.
Kagurazaka Yukimoto – A Geisha Experience in Tokyo
Nestled in Tokyo’s historic Kagurazaka district, Kagurazaka Yukimoto offers an enchanting experience that showcases the art and elegance of geisha culture. Guests can enjoy captivating performances featuring traditional music and dance, immersing themselves in the beauty of this time-honored tradition.
The restaurant also serves superb sake and an exquisite kaiseki cuisine, a multi-course meal that emphasizes seasonal ingredients and artful presentation, making it a culinary delight to complement the performances.
With skilled performers trained in various traditional arts, Kagurazaka Yukimoto stands out as a premier destination for those seeking to experience the richness of Japanese culture.
Located within the luxurious New Otani Tokyo hotel and nestled within a serene 400-year-old Japanese garden, Sekishin-tei offers a unique culinary experience that seamlessly blends Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisines. This restaurant features relaxing counter-style seating where expert chefs grill dishes right in front of you, adding an interactive element to your dining experience.
Unagi-no-Inariya, located in Hakone, is a beloved hidden gem for eel enthusiasts. This traditional restaurant offers a true taste of Japanese cuisine, specializing in unagi (freshwater eel), which is grilled to perfection over charcoal. The signature dish, unadon (grilled eel over rice), stands out for its rich, flavorful sauce and delicate texture. The restaurant emphasizes simplicity, using high-quality, fresh ingredients to let the natural flavors of the eel shine.
The ambiance of Unagi-no-Inariya is as authentic as its cuisine, with a cozy, intimate setting that adds to the overall experience. Diners often appreciate the attentive service and the chance to witness the meticulous preparation of their meal. Popular among locals and tourists alike, Unagi-no-Inariya provides a genuine, traditional Japanese dining experience that’s hard to beat when in Hakone.
If you’re visiting Hakone and looking to savor a memorable unagi dish, this restaurant is a must-visit for a true taste of Japanese culinary tradition.
Best Cocktail Bars
SG Club is a bar that effortlessly blends Tokyo’s modern cocktail culture with elements of traditional Japanese hospitality. Opened by acclaimed bartender Shingo Gokan, this venue has quickly garnered attention, making it a prominent fixture in the city’s vibrant nightlife scene. SG Club has also made it onto Asia’s 50 Best Bars list, affirming its status as a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts.
One standout feature is the omakase cocktail experience, where bartenders craft bespoke drinks tailored to guests’ preferences, making each visit unique. This personalized approach highlights the skill and creativity of the bartending team, ensuring a memorable experience.
Bar Benfiddich is a haven for cocktail aficionados seeking an extraordinary experience. Renowned for its bespoke cocktails and intimate atmosphere, this bar is the brainchild of Hiroyasu Kayama, a highly regarded bartender whose dedication to the craft has earned him recognition on international stages.
The bar’s compact size adds to the charm, creating a cozy environment where guests can fully immerse themselves in the cocktail experience.
Kayama is particularly celebrated for his use of unusual ingredients and his willingness to push the boundaries of traditional mixology. Many cocktails are served with an emphasis on presentation, ensuring that each drink is as visually stunning as it is delicious.
The Bellwood – The Bellwood Cocktail Bar has quickly made a name for itself, debuting at #49 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2023. The brainchild of renowned bartender Atsushi Suzuki, The Bellwood captures the essence of Japan’s rich drinking history while firmly establishing itself as a modern cocktail destination.
As you enter The Bellwood, you’re immediately transported to a bygone era. The decor features nostalgic elements reminiscent of early 20th-century Japanese kissaten (specialty cafes), with sepia-toned photographs, stained glass, and wood relief finishes. This vintage vibe is enhanced by the subtle notes of old-timey Western music, creating a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance perfect for cocktail enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
The cocktail menu is not just a list of drinks but a culinary journey. Inspired by the traditional kaiseki dining style, drinks are categorized according to their ingredients, guiding you through an experience that flows from appetizers to dessert. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a night here; it’s sure to be a highlight of your culinary adventures in the city.
The cocktail menu at Liquid Factory is nothing short of impressive, showcasing a range of creative concoctions that highlight seasonal ingredients and unique flavor combinations. The bartenders here are known for their skill and passion, crafting drinks that not only taste incredible but also look stunning.
What sets Liquid Factory apart is its commitment to an engaging customer experience. The bartenders often interact with guests, sharing their knowledge and passion for mixology. Whether you’re a cocktail novice or a seasoned connoisseur, the staff is dedicated to ensuring everyone feels welcomed and included.
Liquid Factory is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Tokyo’s vibrant cocktail scene. With its inventive drinks, lively atmosphere, and passionate bartenders, it promises an unforgettable night out
Things to Do
Discovering Asakusa, Tokyo’s Historic Neighborhood
Discovering Asakusa is like stepping into a Tokyo of another era. Asakusa is home to the iconic Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temple, where the air is filled with the scent of incense and the sound of prayers. The Kaminarimon Gate, with its massive red lantern, welcomes you into Nakamise Street, a lively market filled with traditional snacks and souvenirs.
Beyond its rich history, Asakusa also offers a glimpse of modernity with its close proximity to the Tokyo Skytree, offering panoramic views of the city. With a balance of spiritual heritage and bustling streets, Asakusa provides an unforgettable experience, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to explore Tokyo’s timeless charm.
Omotesandō : Tokyo’s Fashionable Boulevard of Style and Culture
Omotesandō is a vibrant, tree-lined avenue in Tokyo, celebrated for its mix of high-end fashion boutiques, architectural marvels, and trendy cafes. Often referred to as Tokyo’s “Champs-Élysées,” it attracts both locals and tourists seeking a chic shopping experience.
The area is renowned for its unique blend of contemporary and traditional Japanese design, with iconic structures like the Omotesandō Hills shopping complex showcasing innovative architecture. This blend of modernity and tradition extends to the stores themselves, featuring luxury brands alongside artisanal Japanese shops.
In addition to shopping, Omotesandō offers cultural experiences, including art galleries and the nearby Meiji Shrine, making it a well-rounded destination. Visitors can also enjoy leisurely strolls through the picturesque streets, especially during cherry blossom season when the trees are in full bloom.
Takeshita-dori: The Pulse of Harajuku’s Youth Culture
Takeshita-dori is a vibrant pedestrian street in the heart of Harajuku, Tokyo, famous for its eclectic mix of fashion, culture, and youthful exuberance. Spanning just a few hundred meters, this lively thoroughfare is lined with trendy boutiques, quirky shops, and colorful cafes that cater to Japan’s youthful subcultures.
As you stroll down Takeshita-dori, you’ll encounter everything from vintage clothing shops and unique accessories to the latest in kawaii (cute) culture. The street is a hotspot for teenage fashionistas and a haven for those seeking to express their individuality. Many shops feature one-of-a-kind items that showcase the bold and imaginative styles that have made Harajuku famous around the world.
One of the must-try treats along this lively street is the iconic crepe, often filled with everything from fresh fruit and whipped cream to matcha and sweet red bean paste. These delicious crepes perfectly complement the colorful atmosphere and provide a quick, tasty snack while you explore.
Takeshita-dori is not only a shopping destination but also a cultural experience. Visitors can often witness fashion shows, street performances, and art displays that highlight the creative spirit of Tokyo’s youth. Whether you’re hunting for unique fashion pieces or simply soaking in the vibrant energy, Takeshita-dori is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city’s dynamic culture.
Takeshita-dori offers a glimpse into Japan’s youthful trends and vibrant street culture. This iconic street is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Meiji Shrine: A Serene Retreat in the Heart of Tokyo
Nestled near the bustling streets of Omotesando, Meiji Shrine offers a tranquil escape from the urban frenzy. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, this Shinto shrine is set within a lush forest that spans over 700,000 square meters, providing a serene environment for reflection and spirituality.
Visitors can access the shrine by a short 10- to 15-minute walk from Omotesando, allowing you to seamlessly transition from the chic shopping district to a peaceful sanctuary. The approach to the shrine is marked by a beautiful torii gate, symbolizing the transition from the mundane to the sacred. Once inside, you’ll find stunning wooden structures and traditional architecture that embody the essence of Japanese spirituality.
The shrine is especially popular for traditional wedding ceremonies, which can often be witnessed on weekends, adding to the cultural experience. Additionally, the peaceful gardens and surrounding forest trails invite visitors to take leisurely strolls while enjoying the beauty of nature.
For those seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, Meiji Shrine offers various cultural experiences, including guided tours and seasonal events. The juxtaposition of modernity in nearby Omotesando and the historic tranquility of Meiji Shrine makes this destination a must-visit for anyone exploring Tokyo.
Places to See
Hakone, Japan: A Scenic Haven of Art, Nature, and Relaxation
Hakone, Japan, is a serene getaway just an hour and a half from bustling Tokyo, known for its natural beauty, hot springs (onsen), and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Nestled in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, this area attracts visitors looking to relax and immerse themselves in the peaceful countryside. Hakone’s unique offerings include a scenic boat ride across Lake Ashi, where on clear days, Mount Fuji reflects majestically on the water. The Hakone Ropeway offers panoramic views of volcanic landscapes, leading to the Owakudani geothermal valley, where visitors can sample the famous black eggs cooked in sulfur springs.
Hakone also has a rich cultural side, with attractions like the Hakone Open-Air Museum, showcasing an impressive collection of modern art in a natural setting. Meanwhile, the historical Hakone Shrine, with its iconic torii gate standing in Lake Ashi, offers a tranquil and spiritual experience.
From traditional ryokan stays with private hot springs to scenic hikes and cultural highlights, Hakone is a must-visit for those looking to unwind and reconnect with Japan’s natural and historical beauty.
The Hakone Ropeway offers an unforgettable journey above the stunning landscapes of Hakone, Japan. As one of the region’s premier attractions, this aerial tramway provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, lush valleys, and, on clear days, a majestic view of Mount Fuji.
The ride spans approximately 4 kilometers, connecting the Hakone area to the Owakudani volcanic valley, known for its sulfurous hot springs and unique scenery. The gondolas are spacious and comfortable, making it easy to enjoy the panoramic vistas. The experience is particularly magical in autumn when the foliage transforms into vibrant hues of red and orange, and in winter, when the snow-covered landscapes create a picturesque scene.
A highlight of the ride is the opportunity to stop at Owakudani, where visitors can sample the famous black eggs, boiled in the local hot springs, said to add years to your life! This unique treat, along with the stunning views and geothermal activity, makes for an exciting stop.
The Hakone Open-Air Museum is a stunning fusion of art and nature, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Hakone mountains. This expansive museum, established in 1969, showcases a remarkable collection of sculptures and installations from both Japanese and international artists. With over 100 works on display, visitors can enjoy pieces from renowned figures like Pablo Picasso and Henry Moore, alongside works by Japanese artists.
One of the standout features of the museum is its harmonious blend of outdoor and indoor spaces. The beautifully landscaped grounds allow visitors to wander through gardens dotted with sculptures, providing a unique opportunity to experience art in a natural setting. The museum also houses the Picasso Pavilion, which showcases a diverse collection of the artist’s works, including paintings, ceramics, and sketches.