It’s hectic and peaceful, ultra-modern yet full of tradition, and always colorful in its contrasts – Swissglam’s 5 days in Tokyo only scratched the surface of Japan’s capital, but we were still able to pack in plenty of essential sights.
Here were some of the highlights:
- The world famous Shibuya Crossing is impressive in just how much foot traffic it gets – it is traversed by almost 500,000 people each day, with hundreds regularly crossing the intersection from all directions at once.
- The Meiji Shrine and the adjacent Yoyogi Park make up a large forested area within the dense metropolis. The spacious shrine grounds offer walking paths that are great for a relaxing stroll, and the park is always alive with music and family picnics.
- Akihabara is a buzzing shopping hub famed for its electronics retailers and venues specialising in manga, anime and video games. This is a must see district for any gamers and technology buffs, and I particularly enjoyed Cat Café Mocha.
- Shinjuku is the city’s largest entertainment district, complete with skyscrapers, colourful LED lights, and tons of restaurants – be sure to try Standing Sushi Bar.
- If you fancy looking at Tokyo from above, visit the Tokyo Sky Tree or Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for breathtaking views of the sprawling city.
- Do not miss Sensoji, a Buddhist temple located in Asakusa. It is one of Tokyo’s most colorful and popular temples and boasts plenty of food, souvenirs and great energy for spiritual and non-spiritual tourists alike.
- Ginza is Tokyo’s most famous upmarket shopping, dining and entertainment district, featuring numerous department stores, boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, night clubs and cafés.
We stayed in Japan’s first Pullman hotel – Pullman Tokyo Tamachi. Here, the contemporary décor seamlessly blended Japanese elegance and European design. Located near the Tamachi Station on the famous JR Yamanote Line, we were in a prime position to branch off into tourist spots, city walks, shopping and business. The Pullman provided a respite in its spacious modern rooms, rooftop bar, and delicious and nutritious breakfast at the restaurant KASA with both Western and Japanese morning meals variety, fresh juices, baked goods and warm dishes. Between the excitement of all the tourist attractions and the massive amounts of people, this was a crucial recharge before returning to a city that never ceases to surprise.
