Tokyo

A city that I could happily return to year upon year and be very happy. This is my little guide to the capital of Japan, a city where there is too much to do, see and eat, so have a look at my go to when I visit.

Fast Tips

  • Try to fly into Haneda Airport opposed to Narita which is substantially further away from central Tokyo.

  • Some of the best restaurants get incredibly busy. Always have a look online for reviews on wait times and what time you should get there. Different places have different rules whether a ticket system or a line and wait system, so a quick google means you won’t miss out.

  • Most places take card, but always bring a little bit of cash for the old school spots.

  • 7/11 is truly heaven in this country, we spent bigger for dinner, chilled breakfast and grabbed onigiri (stuffed rice triangles in seaweed) for lunch to save money, but also they’re delicious.

  • Download google translate, as most people do not speak English and most things are in Japanese (although I did notice more English based text since the olympics).

  • Come over with a prepared sim or internet connection as the city can get a bit tricky and wifi isn’t overly available.

  • A minimum of five days is needed to really get through Tokyo. There are so many neighbourhoods to explore a bit of time here goes a long way.

  • When looking for accomodation, you can’t really go wrong as long as you’re near a train station, especially one that is well connected. My favourite area is Meguro, which is where a lot of my favourite spots are.

Eats & Sips

KAN

Hidden away, this is Japanese food on another level. Make sure you have the degustation, was about $80 a head with beers but so so so worth it. My partner was in awe of a couple of the bites.

SHIN UDON

Some call the best udon in Tokyo, come early, grab a ticket, they’ll message you when to come back. Come minimum 2 hours before you want to eat.

***Images courtesy of establisment websites and photo sharing sites such as Tripadvisor.

KUSHIWAKAMARU

My favourite restaurant in the world (I know, big call). I came here years ago and it hasn’t lost its touch. Small yakitori, when the chicken melts in your mouth.

HITACHINO BREWING LAB

Hitachino do a great Japanese take on German style beers and the spot along the river is really relaxing.

BAR MARTHA

incredible listening bar where they play records. Don’t talk too loudly, you can chat quietly and enjoy the atmosphere, the speakers are incredible. Highly recommend, just be respectful.

PARKLET

Brunch, cool, coffee game strong, former Bar Tartine (San Fran) alumni owners.