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Japan: A Journey Through Tokyo: 10 Unforgettable Things to Do

about

About Tokyo

Tokyo feels like a city that never truly stands still. From the moment you step out into its streets, there’s an unmistakable energy that comes from millions of people going about their daily lives in one of the world’s most organised and modern cities. Trains arrive on time to the second, and the city’s rhythm seems to pulse through the stations, crossings, and narrow lanes filled with convenience stores, vending machines, and flashing signs. Yet amid all the movement, Tokyo never feels overwhelming. There’s a quiet order to the chaos, a politeness that softens the noise, and a sense of safety that makes wandering its backstreets late at night feel completely natural. The scale of the city can be daunting at first, but it soon becomes easy to navigate, thanks to the efficiency and friendliness of the people who call it home.

What stands out most in Tokyo is how well tradition and modern life coexist. You can visit a centuries-old shrine tucked between tall glass towers, or see someone in a kimono walking past an electronic shop selling the latest gadgets. The old neighbourhoods, such as Asakusa or Yanaka, give a glimpse of what Tokyo once was — low wooden houses, narrow lanes, and the smell of street food drifting from small stalls. Then, a short train ride away, you find yourself in the futuristic world of Shibuya or Shinjuku, where neon lights and giant screens fill the night sky. The contrast is striking, yet it feels natural, as though the city has found a way to carry its past alongside its future without conflict. It’s this balance that makes Tokyo such a fascinating place to explore — a city constantly moving forward but never losing sight of where it came from.

Daily life in Tokyo has a rhythm that’s both fast-paced and deeply considered. People work long hours, trains are packed during rush hour, and yet there’s still space for quiet moments — in a park, a coffee shop, or a small temple garden. The attention to detail in everything, from the way food is presented to how streets are kept clean, shows a sense of pride and care that runs through Japanese culture. Eating out is always an experience, even for those following a vegan diet, as there’s an increasing awareness of plant-based options, especially in more international districts. The city’s sheer scale means you could spend weeks exploring and still feel you’ve only scratched the surface. Every corner reveals something new — a hidden café, a local market, or a calm green space amid the concrete. Tokyo’s beauty lies not in grand gestures but in these quiet, ordinary details that slowly reveal themselves the longer you stay.

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museum

Things to do

suomenlinna

🏯 Visit the Tokyo National Museum

Located in Ueno Park, the Tokyo National Museum is Japan’s oldest and most important museum, dedicated to preserving and presenting the country’s cultural heritage. Established in 1872, it houses an extensive collection of over 100,000 artefacts, including national treasures and important cultural properties. Walking through its galleries gives a sense of Japan’s long artistic evolution — from the intricate pottery of the Jōmon period to the refined samurai armour and delicate Edo-era screens. The museum complex itself is spread across several buildings, each focusing on a different aspect of Asian art and archaeology, but the main Honkan building remains the highlight for traditional Japanese works.

Visiting the museum allows time to reflect on the sheer scale of Japan’s cultural continuity. Temporary exhibitions often showcase items rarely seen outside of Japan, while the surrounding Ueno Park adds to the atmosphere, with its broad walkways and seasonal cherry blossoms. The museum’s calm order contrasts with Tokyo’s fast pace, offering a glimpse into the artistry and discipline that have shaped Japanese identity for centuries

temple

🕍 Explore Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa

Sensō-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, stands in the heart of Asakusa and dates back to 645 AD. It was founded to honour Kannon, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, after two fishermen reportedly found her statue in the nearby Sumida River. The approach to the temple, known as Nakamise Street, is lined with shops selling traditional crafts and souvenirs, creating a vibrant introduction to the site. Passing under the large red Kaminarimon Gate, with its famous lantern, we entered the temple grounds surrounded by incense smoke and the sounds of prayers. The main hall and five-storey pagoda have both been carefully rebuilt following wartime damage, preserving their historic form while maintaining their religious function.

We visited during a quieter morning, which allowed time to appreciate the scale and structure of the complex. The main hall’s interior is richly decorated, and visitors come to offer coins, clap their hands, and bow in silence before the altar. The air smells faintly of incense from the large burner outside, where people wave the smoke over themselves for good fortune. Around the temple are smaller shrines and gardens, each holding a specific charm or tradition. The balance between faith, history, and community makes Sensō-ji one of the most complete cultural experiences in the city.

garden

🏙️ Wander Through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Shinjuku Gyoen is one of Tokyo’s largest and most beautifully designed parks, combining traditional Japanese, English, and French landscape styles. Originally built as a residence for a feudal lord in the Edo period, it later became an imperial garden before opening to the public after World War II. The garden’s layout is structured yet varied, with open lawns, ponds, and carefully pruned trees.

We walked through in late afternoon when the light was soft, and the park was quiet except for distant voices. The Japanese Garden, with its bridges and teahouse, was especially peaceful. Cherry trees line much of the park, making it a major destination in spring, while the autumn foliage adds a different charm. Despite being in central Tokyo, the garden feels removed from the city’s pace, providing space to pause and observe how design and nature are balanced in Japanese horticulture.

sumo

🎌 Experience Sumo Wrestling in Ryōgoku

Sumo wrestling is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, and Ryōgoku Kokugikan is its spiritual home. The stadium, located in the Ryōgoku district, was built in 1985 and hosts the major tournaments held in January, May, and September each year. The sport itself dates back over a thousand years, originally performed as a Shinto ritual to entertain the gods. Today’s tournaments retain much of that heritage, with ceremonies, rituals, and dress that reflect centuries of tradition.

We attended a morning session to watch the lower-ranked wrestlers before the main bouts later in the day. The atmosphere was formal yet lively, with spectators cheering as wrestlers clapped, stomped, and threw salt to purify the ring. The matches were short but intense, and between bouts, attendants swept the ring while the crowd waited quietly. The adjacent Sumo Museum offered displays of ceremonial aprons, calligraphy banners, and photographs of past champions. Even outside of tournament season, the area around Ryōgoku is worth visiting for its sumo stables and training facilities that occasionally allow public viewing.

hedgehog

🐾 Visit a Hedgehog Café in Harajuku

Animal cafés are a distinct feature of Tokyo’s leisure culture, ranging from cat cafés to owl and reptile cafés. We chose to visit a hedgehog café in the Roppongi area, curious about the experience. The concept combines light social interaction with animal care, allowing visitors to spend time handling and observing the animals under supervision. On arrival, we were given instructions on how to hold the hedgehogs gently, along with small gloves for comfort. Each animal had a distinct personality, and staff explained details about their species, care, and diet.

The café was quiet, with dim lighting and low background music. Customers sat at individual stations where the hedgehogs rested in soft enclosures. The animals were well-kept, active, and regularly rotated to avoid stress. It was a simple, calm experience rather than a novelty, offering a closer look at animals rarely encountered up close. The visit gave insight into Japan’s approach to themed spaces and how carefully managed interaction can provide both education and entertainment.

akihabara

🚋 Explore Akihabara’s Electric Town

Akihabara is Tokyo’s centre for electronics, gaming, and pop culture. The area developed after World War II as a market for surplus radio parts, evolving into a dense cluster of shops selling everything from computer components to collectibles. Over time, it also became a hub for anime, manga, and gaming, attracting enthusiasts from around the world. The buildings are covered with bright signage and large advertisements, and narrow alleys are filled with small specialist stores.

We spent an afternoon exploring the multi-storey shops selling retro consoles, model kits, and rare figurines. Each floor offered a different focus, and staff were knowledgeable and welcoming. The atmosphere is energetic but friendly, and it reflects the creativity and commercial drive that characterise modern Japan. Even for those not deeply involved in gaming or anime culture, Akihabara offers a clear view of how Tokyo continually reinvents itself while retaining links to its past as an electronics capital.

shibuya

🏮 Stroll Through the Streets of Shibuya

Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s most recognisable districts, and the famous Shibuya Crossing is as busy as everyone says. Standing at the corner waiting for the lights to change, we felt part of a massive, moving river of people. The energy was incredible — hundreds crossing in every direction, each on their way somewhere different. The surrounding area was full of shops, cafés, and music spilling from open doors.

We spent the afternoon exploring side streets where small bars and vegan eateries hid behind glowing lanterns. A visit to the Hachikō statue outside Shibuya Station added a quieter moment; reading about the loyal dog who waited for his owner every day gave the area a sense of warmth amid the bustle. As night fell, the lights grew brighter, and we found a rooftop spot to watch the intersection below — a perfect way to feel the rhythm of Tokyo.

shrine

🎐 Visit Meiji Shrine

Hidden within a large forested area near Harajuku, Meiji Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, who played key roles in modernising Japan in the late 19th century. Completed in 1920, the shrine was rebuilt after wartime destruction and remains one of Tokyo’s most important Shinto sites. The approach is long and shaded by towering trees, creating a calm transition from the city’s noise to quiet paths of gravel and cypress.

When we visited, the scale of the wooden torii gates was immediately impressive. The main courtyard, paved and open, leads to the inner shrine where visitors make offerings or write wishes on wooden plaques known as ema. We also came across a traditional wedding procession, a reminder of how the shrine continues to be used for ceremonies. Nearby, the Meiji Jingu Inner Garden offers seasonal flowers and a tranquil pond. Although it sits beside some of Tokyo’s busiest districts, Meiji Shrine feels remote and reflective, showing a more spiritual side of the city.

markets

🛍 Explore the Markets of Ameya-Yokochō

Just outside Ueno Station lies Ameya-Yokochō, a bustling market street with post-war origins. Once a black-market hub, it now sells everything from dried goods and fresh fruit to shoes and cosmetics. Walking through it feels like stepping back to a more chaotic, unpolished Tokyo — one that still thrives under railway arches. We sampled roasted sweet potatoes and browsed through small stalls selling chopsticks, old coins, and souvenirs.

The energy is unfiltered, and the vendors call out in rhythmic tones that carry down the narrow lanes. We noticed small bars opening as evening approached, with locals chatting over simple snacks. For us, it captured the working-class spirit of Tokyo, a place where commerce, history and community intersect. It’s easy to lose track of time here, caught between the smells, sounds and friendly chaos.

skytree

🌆 Admire the View from Tokyo Skytree

The Tokyo Skytree dominates the skyline and provides an extraordinary vantage point over the entire city. Rising to 634 metres, it’s one of the tallest structures in the world. The observation decks offer a 360-degree panorama — from Mount Fuji on clear days to the endless sprawl of lights by night. We went up late afternoon and stayed until dusk, watching Tokyo change colour as the sun faded and the city began to glow.

Inside, interactive displays explain the building’s construction, designed to withstand earthquakes and typhoons. Down below, the surrounding Solamachi complex offers shops and restaurants, and while most are not vegan, we did find a small café serving plant-based desserts. Leaving after dark, the illuminated tower reflected in the Sumida River created a perfect Tokyo moment — futuristic yet serene.

gettingaround

Getting around Tokyo

🚇 Public Transport in Tokyo

Getting around Tokyo is efficient and straightforward thanks to its world-class public transport system. The network includes the metro, local trains, and buses — all of which are integrated through convenient smart cards like Suica and Pasmo. The Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway systems together cover most of the city, connecting key areas such as Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ginza, Asakusa, and Ueno. Trains run frequently, are clean, and always on time. The Japan Rail (JR) lines, including the famous JR Yamanote Line, form a circular route around the city’s major districts, making it easy to reach almost any attraction or neighbourhood. Buses complement the train system by linking smaller residential areas and spots that are not directly accessible by rail. Tickets can be bought from machines at stations or paid via contactless cards, and clear bilingual signs make navigation simple for visitors.

🚶 Walking and Cycling

Tokyo is a city that invites exploration on foot. Many central districts — like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ginza — are compact and best experienced by walking, with wide pavements, pedestrian crossings, and regular car-free zones. Strolling through quieter areas such as Yanaka or Kagurazaka gives a sense of the city’s traditional charm, while parks like Ueno and Yoyogi offer peaceful walking routes away from the busy streets. Cycling is also becoming more popular, with many hotels and rental shops offering bicycles for short-term use. Dedicated cycle paths are increasing across the city, and riding along the Sumida River or through the Imperial Palace area provides a scenic and relaxed way to see the sights.

🚖 Taxis, Rideshares, and Car Hire

Taxis in Tokyo are safe, clean, and reliable, though more expensive than public transport. Most drivers use GPS navigation, and payment can be made by cash, card, or Suica/Pasmo. Taxis are easy to recognise with their illuminated roof signs and automatic doors. Rideshare services are limited, but some international apps operate in partnership with local taxi firms, providing app-based booking convenience. Car hire is available, but driving in central Tokyo is not recommended due to congestion, toll roads, and complex parking rules. For most visitors, the combination of trains, metro, and walking is far more practical and enjoyable.

🚄 Trains and Day Trips

Tokyo’s train connections extend far beyond the city, making day trips extremely convenient. Major stations such as Tokyo, Ueno, and Shinjuku link to destinations like Kamakura, Yokohama, Nikko, and Hakone. High-speed Shinkansen (bullet trains) depart from Tokyo and Shinagawa stations, connecting the capital with Kyoto, Osaka, and other cities in just a few hours. Local commuter trains are equally efficient and often scenic, passing through suburban areas and countryside landscapes. The network’s punctuality and clarity make travelling beyond Tokyo both easy and enjoyable for visitors looking to explore more of Japan.

✈️ Getting To and From the Airport

Tokyo has two main airports: Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT). Haneda is closer to the city centre and well connected by monorail and Keikyu Line trains, taking around 20 minutes to reach central Tokyo. Narita Airport, about 60 kilometres away, is served by several train options including the Narita Express and Keisei Skyliner, both offering fast and comfortable travel to key city stations. Airport limousine buses also connect major hotels and districts. Taxis are available at both airports but are significantly more expensive than train services.

🗺️ Summary

Mode of TransportConvenienceCostNotes
Metro🚇 Excellent💰 AffordableFast, clean, and punctual
Train🚄 Excellent💰 AffordableIdeal for city and day trips
Bus🚌 Very Good💰 AffordableComplements metro routes
Walking🚶‍♀️ Excellent🆓 FreeBest for central districts
Cycling🚴‍♂️ Good💰 LowIncreasing bike paths
Taxi🚖 Convenient💰💰 HighSafe but expensive
Airport Transfer✈️ Easy💰 AffordableFast rail links to city

Tokyo is a city designed for seamless movement — clean, efficient, and accessible. Whether gliding across the city on the metro, taking a high-speed train for a day trip, or simply walking through its lively neighbourhoods, getting around Tokyo is smooth, safe, and rewarding.

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Eating out for vegans in Tokyo

Tokyo might surprise you with how easy it’s becoming to enjoy tasty vegan food. From trendy cafés to cosy eateries, here are some great spots for plant-based dining across the city.


🌿 T’s Restaurant – Jiyugaoka

A well-loved vegan restaurant serving Japanese and Western-style dishes such as ramen, curry, and burgers. The atmosphere is bright and welcoming, perfect for a relaxed meal.

📍 Address: 2-9-6 Jiyugaoka, Meguro City, Tokyo
🌐 Website: ts-restaurant.jp


🍜 Ain Soph. Journey – Shinjuku

A stylish café offering a creative vegan menu with pancakes, burgers, and curry rice. It’s one of Tokyo’s most popular vegan chains, known for its friendly service and cosy vibe.

📍 Address: 2-46-8 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
🌐 Website: ain-soph.jp/journey


🛒 Loving Hut – Jimbocho

Part of a global vegan restaurant network, Loving Hut serves homely, plant-based meals including Japanese set lunches, noodle dishes, and desserts.


🧁 Komeda Is ☕ – Multiple Locations

A plant-based branch of the popular Komeda Coffee chain. They serve vegan sandwiches, desserts, and plant milk drinks in a relaxed, modern setting.

📍 Locations: Ginza, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro
🌐 Website: komeda-is.com


🥙 T’s Tantan – Tokyo Station

A must-try for travellers, this ramen shop inside Tokyo Station serves completely vegan ramen with rich, flavourful broths. Quick, affordable, and delicious.

📍 Address: Inside JR Tokyo Station, Keiyo Street
🌐 Website: ts-restaurant.jp/ts-tantan


🌱 Brown Rice by Neal’s Yard Remedies – Omotesando

A peaceful café serving nourishing vegan and vegetarian meals made with organic, seasonal ingredients. Their set lunches and miso soup are especially popular.

📍 Address: 5-1-8 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo
🌐 Website: brownrice.jp

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The best time to visit Tokyo

🌸 Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular and picturesque times to visit Tokyo. The weather is mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures averaging between 13°C and 20°C. Cherry blossoms bloom across the city, transforming parks like Ueno, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Chidorigafuchi into soft pink landscapes. This is also the season for many local festivals celebrating the arrival of spring, creating a cheerful atmosphere throughout the city. However, accommodation prices can rise due to the influx of visitors, especially during peak bloom periods.

For packing, bring light layers such as long-sleeved shirts, a light jumper, and a waterproof jacket for occasional rain. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring gardens and walking through busy neighbourhoods like Shibuya or Asakusa.


☀️ Summer (June to August)

Summer in Tokyo is hot and humid, with temperatures frequently climbing above 30°C and high humidity levels. June marks the rainy season, while July and August are bright but can feel sweltering. Despite the heat, this is a lively period with fireworks festivals, open-air events, and traditional matsuri celebrations taking place across the city. Tokyo Bay and riverside areas come alive with evening festivities, and it’s an exciting time for cultural experiences.

Light, breathable clothing such as cotton or linen is best, along with sun protection—hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A compact umbrella is also useful for both rain and strong sun. Bring light footwear and keep hydrated throughout the day.


🍁 Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is another beautiful season in Tokyo, often considered the most comfortable for sightseeing. The weather cools down, with crisp mornings and pleasant afternoons averaging between 15°C and 22°C. The city’s parks turn into stunning displays of red, orange, and yellow foliage, particularly in November. The atmosphere is calm, and the air is clearer after the humid summer, making it ideal for photography and long walks.

Pack layers such as shirts, jumpers, and a medium-weight jacket for evenings. A scarf and light gloves can also come in handy later in the season. Comfortable walking shoes remain essential for exploring Tokyo’s many gardens and temples.


❄️ Winter (December to February)

Winter in Tokyo is generally mild, dry, and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 12°C. Snow is rare in the city, but crisp air and clear blue skies make for great sightseeing conditions. Illumination events light up major districts such as Shibuya, Marunouchi, and Roppongi, giving the city a festive sparkle. Crowds are lighter after the New Year holidays, offering a quieter experience at popular attractions.

Bring warm layers including a coat, jumper, gloves, and a hat for chilly mornings and evenings. Comfortable shoes are still important, and moisture-rich skincare helps with the dry air.


🧳 Summary Chart

SeasonTemperatureWeatherHighlightsWhat to Pack
Spring (Mar–May)13–20°CMild, occasional rainCherry blossoms, festivalsLight layers, jumper, waterproof jacket
Summer (Jun–Aug)25–33°CHot, humid, rainy in JuneFireworks, matsuri, outdoor eventsLight clothes, hat, sunscreen, umbrella
Autumn (Sep–Nov)15–22°CClear, dry, comfortableAutumn foliage, festivalsLayers, jacket, scarf
Winter (Dec–Feb)5–12°CCold, dry, sunnyIlluminations, quieter travelWarm coat, gloves, moisturiser

🌆 Overall Best Time to Visit

The overall best time to visit Tokyo is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Both seasons offer comfortable weather, natural beauty, and cultural events without the discomfort of extreme heat or cold. Spring brings the charm of cherry blossoms and lively festivals, while autumn provides striking foliage and a calm, pleasant atmosphere for exploring the city at a relaxed pace.

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Where to stay in Tokyo

🏙️ Shinjuku – Central & Well-Connected

One of Tokyo’s most famous districts, Shinjuku is a transport hub with endless shopping, entertainment, restaurants, parks and views. It’s ideal for first-time visitors and offers easy access around the city.

  • ✨ Upscale – Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo Premier Grand
    ⭐ Superb rating ~9.3 with ~1,378 reviews — iconic hotel with excellent service near Shinjuku Station. Booking.com

  • 📍 Mid-Range – Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku
    ⭐ Very good ~8.6 with ~12,627 reviews — reliable choice close to transport and nightlife. Booking.com

  • 💷 Budget – E Hotel Higashi Shinjuku
    ⭐ Great budget spot, simple and clean, steps from the station with easy city access. Booking.com


🚉 Shibuya – Trendy & Youthful

Shibuya is a vibrant area known worldwide for the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing, fashion districts, cafés and nightlife. It’s ideal for shopping, food, and youthful energy.

  • ✨ Upscale – Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel
    ⭐ Superb (9.0+) with several thousand reviews — panoramic city views and luxurious rooms right by Shibuya Station. Booking.com

  • 📍 Mid-Range – Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu
    ⭐ Fabulous ~8.7 with ~3,000+ reviews — connected directly to Shibuya Station with comfy rooms. Booking.com

  • 💷 Budget – The Millennials Shibuya
    ⭐ Fabulous ~8.9 with ~2,210 reviews — capsule-style modern pods near the heart of the action. Booking.com


🏛️ Asakusa – Traditional & Cultural

For a more traditional feel, Asakusa blends historic temples (like Sensō-ji), old markets, street food and calmer streets — great for sightseeing and cultural experiences.

  • ✨ Upscale – Asakusa View Hotel (example high-end hotel in Asakusa on Booking.com)
    ⭐ Excellent reviews, with spacious rooms and great views over the district. Booking.com

  • 📍 Mid-Range – Asakusa Tobu Hotel
    ⭐ Superb ~9.1 with ~8,300+ reviews — popular choice close to the temple and transport. Booking.com

  • 💷 Budget – APA Hotel Asakusa Ekimae
    ⭐ Very good ~8.3 with ~6,500+ reviews — affordable stay just a short walk from Asakusa Station. Booking.com


🏞️ Ueno – Parks & Museums

Ueno is perfect for culture lovers, with Ueno Park, museums, zoo and easy access to train lines. It has a slightly calmer vibe but still great for dining and nightlife. 

  • ✨ Upscale – Hotel Niwa Tokyo (example upscale hotel in Ueno on Booking.com). Booking.com
    ⭐ Beautifully designed mid-size hotel with great service near transport.

  • 📍 Mid-Range – Sakura Cross Hotel Ueno Okachimachi
    ⭐ Very good ~8.5 with ~1,149 reviews — comfortable and modern near Ueno Park. Booking.com

  • 💷 Budget – HOTEL MYSTAYS Ueno Inaricho
    ⭐ Good ~7.8 with ~1,060 reviews — affordable and convenient for exploring Ueno. Booking.com


🛍️ Ginza / Tokyo Station – Shopping & Luxury

This area combines upscale shopping, fine dining and superb transport links via Tokyo Station. It’s excellent for foodies and travellers who want convenience and style. 

  • ✨ Upscale – The Okura Tokyo
    ⭐ Exceptional ~9.6 with ~1,800+ reviews — refined comfort near Ginza and transport. Booking.com

  • 📍 Mid-Range – The Royal Park Canvas Ginza Corridor
    ⭐ Very good ~8.5 with ~2,559 reviews — stylish and modern in the heart of Ginza. Booking.com

  • 💷 Budget – Hotel Villa Fontaine Tokyo-Kudanshita
    ⭐ Very good ~8.0 with ~1,858 reviews — affordable and elegant, close to Ginza metro. Booking.com


🗾 Quick Tips on Choosing Where to Stay

  • First-timers & transport ease: Shinjuku or Shibuya are top choices with endless train and subway links.

  • Culture & history: Asakusa and Ueno offer a more traditional feel.

  • Luxury & fine dining: Ginza and Tokyo Station area combine shopping with high-end experiences.

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