2 DAY GUIDE TO TOKYO, JAPAN

Konnichiwa from Tokyo, Japan! Visiting Tokyo is like stepping into a dream. It’s sensory overload in the best way possible – complete with modern skyscrapers, neon lights, crazy arcade games and some of the best food you’ll ever have! It can definitely feel overwhelming trying to plan your first trip there so we rounded up the top things to do and see in Tokyo.

NAVIGATING THE CITY:

We mostly walked around Tokyo because we were looking to get a little exercise in but we did use the public transportation and HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Unlike NYC, Tokyo’s subways are super clean, modern, efficient and easy to use. They’re actually well known for having a world-famous transportation system. We recommend getting the 48-hour ticket if you’re there for 2 days. It’s 1,200 yen ($11 US dollars) and is so worth it! I also heard the JR pass is legit if you’re planning on being in Japan for longer than 2 days.

WHERE WE STAYED:

We partnered with Grand Hyatt Tokyo while we were in Tokyo and it did not disappoint. The hotel was really luxurious, and had beautiful bed rooms a gorgeous view of the city. Some highlights from the hotel were the delicious breakfast buffet and the spa/jacuzzi.

MUST-SEE NEIGHBORHOODS:

Tokyo is actually a bigger city than NYC so we had a lot of ground to cover in 2 days. Here are some of our favorite neighborhoods we explored:

Harajuku:

The center of Japanese fashion and youth culture, feels like you’re stepping into a Hello Kitty museum. Also recommend trying all the delicious sweets on Takeshita street, it’s one of the main shopping streets in the neighborhood.

Shinjuku:

Known for all things entertainment. You’ll find the robot restaurant and other themed restaurants, giant godzilla, arcade games. You can really spend hours walking around here and getting lost in all the shops and food!

Golden Gai:

Really fun drinking area on the eastern side of Shinjuku. Literally translated to Golden Gai, this area is known for its narrow streets, bars and jazz clubs. Pro tip: Keep in mind that most bars open at 8 pm

Shibuya:

Famous for the Shibuya Crossing– one of the busiest intersections in the world. During rush hour, you’ll find more than 1,000 people crossing this famous spot. You’ll also find 10 story shopping malls, countless restaurants and entertainment everywhere!

Akihabara:

Famous for its arcades, games and anime. We spent hours walking around the colorful streets and playing arcade games at different stores!

Asakusa:

Located in the Taito District in Asakusa is Senso-ji, a beautiful seventh-century traditional temple.

Meiji Jingu:

If you’re looking to escape the city life, check out this beautiful Shinto shrine located just a 5 minute walk from Harajuku area. It’s a quiet, wooded area with over 100,000 trees.

WHERE TO EAT:

$ Ippudo Ramen – the best Ramen we had in Tokyo and delicious gyoza

$ Angel Crepes – Portable crepes found in Harijuku area

$ Kamukura – Noodle Shop

$ Taiyaki – traditional Japanese pancake and classic street food

$$ Maguro Shouten – Local style sushi restaurant, super fresh and affordable

$$ Yello – Dessert shop serving traditional Japanese shave ice

Other food spots we didn’t get to try but heard great things:

Kushiwakamaru

Afuri Ramen Nakameguro

Maisen Omotesando

Butagami

BACKGROUND INFO:

Language:

English definitely isn’t common in Tokyo so we definitely recommend downloading Google Translator prior to your trip! Also, familiarize yourself with some common Japanese words:

Konnichiwa: Hello or Good Afternoon

Konbanwa: Good Evening

Oyasumi Nasai: Goodnight

Arigatō – Thank you

Onegaishimasu: Please

Currency:

Tokyo uses the Japanese Yen. There are around 111 yen per 1 US dollar.

Basic Geography:

The city of Tokyo has twenty-three wards, and each ward is made up of several districts. When you are planning your daily adventures, you’ll want to figure out which wards have interesting districts, and then map out your route.

Cash and Cards:

Tokyo isn’t very credit card friendly so it’s always good to keep cash on hand. Most ATMs dispense a minimum of $100 so be aware of that!