Tokyo is a modern metropolis like no other: glittering skyscrapers pepper the city in stark contrast to its serene temples; and back-alley bars are waiting to be discovered alongside Michelin-starred restaurants. Writer Emmie Harrison-West shares our reasons to love Tokyo, and why it should be first on your post-pandemic travel list…
DK Tokyo
View BookThe Roppongi Art Triangle
If you were to draw lines on a map between Tokyo’s three most cutting-edge art museums – The Mori Art Museum, The National Art Center Tokyo and the Suntory Museum of Art – you would end up with the Roppongi art triangle. The Roppongi district is the centre of business and night-life, but it is renowned for being a world-leading artistic hub.
Take a breather
With such a rapid, modern lifestyle city-dwellers have perfected their downtime in the form of bath-houses, or sentos (public hot springs). For something especially unique, we recommend the gma Oedo-Onsen Monogatari – a traditional Japanese-style natural spring in the heart of the city.
Timeless traditions
Even in ultra-modern Tokyo, the past is never far away. Shop in the old stores of the buzzing Nihonbashi district, famed for its 17th century canal bridge. Visit the tranquil Meiji Shrine, located in the city’s 170-acre evergreen forest; or take in a Kabuki performance, a traditional Japanese dance-drama show with extraordinary make-up.
Taste of Tokyo
In a country famed for its cuisine, the capital city offers the best of the best. With the esteemed title of the city with the most Michelin stars in the world, Tokyo is a haven for foodies. From classic, affordable sushi dishes and ravishing ramen, to infamous Japanese natto (fermented soy beans) – you will be spoiled for choice, no matter your budget.
Japanese gardens
Sprinkled throughout the urban sprawl are many stunning natural spaces, from secluded, meditative temple gardens to beautiful parks perfect for an afternoon stroll. The beauty of each garden changes throughout the seasons and promises a sensory delight – whether you choose the exquisite Imperial Palace Garden of the Emperor of Japan, or the serene 40-acre Koishikawa Botanical Garden, you’re in for a treat.
Crazy for kawaii
Geek culture – or otaku, as the Japanese say – reigns supreme in Tokyo, especially in the districts of Akihabara and Ikebukuro. Explore flashing arcades, cutesy-themed cafés, and let your inner child run wild in multi-storey treasure troves of anime merch.
At your convenience
Convenience is essential for the fast-paced lives of Japan's city dwellers, from trains leaving at the precise second to the vending machines that pepper the streets filled with underwear, pet toys, food and drinks. Konbini (convenience stores) grace every street corner of Tokyo and are always open. They’re stocked with everything from curries to concert tickets.
Fashion parade
Fashion is a state of mind in Tokyo – for both chic, modern couture and quirky youth fashion, you’ll find plenty of inspiration on the streets of the capital. Head to the fashion district of Harajuku for some shopping and people-watching.
Unique nightlife
In the capital, the night is young. Whether you’re after a good Japanese whisky, a multi-floor dance club, cocktails in a sleek rooftop bar, or a hole-in-the-wall with live music, Tokyo’s got you covered. The best haunts are scattered throughout the city, but Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku are home to the most colourful ones.
Sipping sake
Made from large-grain rice and koji (yeast), sake gets its rich flavor from its unique fermentation process. Hot in winter or cold in summer, it’s the perfect thirst quencher and a must-sip in Tokyo.
Karaoke nights
Everyone from giggling teens to suit-clad businessmen belt out tunes in soundproof booths to escape from the bustling city streets. Grab your earplugs and liquid courage, have your crowd-pleasing song at the ready, and enjoy the ultimate singalong.
Awesome architecture
History has moulded Tokyo’s architecture – natural disasters and WWII firebombing have meant that older buildings are few and far between. Despite that, Tokyo is full of exemplary spectacles of Japanese design today – from the grand and ancient Senso-ji temple, to the playful and contemporary Mikimoto Ginza 2 store.
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