TOKYO
Tokyo was one of my favorite cities — from the uber modern city life to the traditional Japanese culture, it is an experience you can’t miss.
Getting Around
Public transportation in Tokyo is super easy and there is English almost everywhere. You can buy an IC Card but there are several different lines in the city so buying single tickets was often easiest for us! Keep your phone on silent and convos to a quiet level. Also, if you notice children, pregnant women, elderly or disabled, be sure to give up your seat!
Language + Currency
English is becoming more and more common in the city. We used the Google Pixel’s Translate App to download Japanese and it was a lifesaver at times! You can simply hold your phone over something and have it translated.
Japanese Yen is the currency — about 1 USD equals 111 JPY. Many places only accept cash but you can pretty easily find ATMS (especially in 7-Eleven and Family Marts!).
Top Tokyo Tips
Tokyo is one of the cleanest and safest cities I’ve been to. BUT there are very few garbage cans anywhere in the city…I started saving little grocery type bags to carry the trash until I found a bin!
The western toilets are something of an experience — seat warmers, music, sprays. But bring extra tissue with you for when you need to use a non-western toilet!
favorite neighborhoods
HARAJUKU
Pop culture meets eccentric fashion. I couldn’t get enough of this fun and free spirited neighborhood!
Ginza
The posh shopping district is home to most major designers and some over the top malls.Think shopping spreeeee!
Shibuya
Aside from the massive cross walk, this neighborhood has an abundance of restaurants and shops to explore! Think of it as the Time Square of Tokyo.
click here to read more about my favorite neighborhoods in TOKYO
WHERE TO STAY
For the best views of the city, head to the RC Midtown. The service is exceptional and the location is perfect for exploring all of Tokyo!
what to eat
The seafood and sushi in Tokyo are exceptional so don’t miss this!
ramen
Many ramen restaurants have vending type machines at the door where you place your order and pay. Then head inside and turn in your ticket, your order will be delivered to your table!
Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake. Most are made with pork, cabbage, spring onions, and a delicious barbecue type sauce.
JAPANESE
BARBECUE
It’s typically associated as Korean Barbecue but find a Japanese one and cook up some Wagyu at your table. Thank me later.
KAWAII MONSTER CAFE
The over the top rainbow explosion is in Harajuku and is all about the CUTE FOOD.
TSUJIKI FISH MARKET
If you want to see the hype of the market, arrive early! Super early…some would say 4AM! We opted for a late arrival and enjoyed some sushi for lunch!
DEPARTMENT STORE
FOOD HALL
It sounds crazy but most of the department stores have amazing food halls full of delicious food. It’s a great way to try an array of food!
You also can’t miss TOKYO DISNEY on a visit. We had the best day being big kids at the park! And in true Japanese fashion, everyone is so kind and polite…waiting in lines was a breeze!
see more about TOKYO DISNEY here
shop my tokyo look
[show_shopthepost_widget id=”2829782″]
pin this for later
3 Comments
This looks amazing and makes me want to go!! So impressed with your research!! Miss and love you! Xoxo!
You would LOVE Tokyo! Add it to the list!! Miss you + love ya girl! Can’t wait to be back in NC soon! X
great guide!