Welcome to Tokyo, Japan, a city renowned not only for its captivating attractions but also for its unparalleled hospitality. From the moment you step foot in this vibrant metropolis, you’ll be greeted with warmth, grace, and a genuine dedication to providing exceptional service. In this hospitality blog, we will delve into the essence of Tokyo’s hospitality culture that we felt on our most recent trip to the amazing city.
Our Itinerary was packed as we only had 10 days in Japan and wanted to maximize it. We explored Tokyo the first day after we flew into Japan. And then proceeded to go to Osaka for 5 days where we took 2 day trips to Nara and Kyoto and finishing our stay in Tokyo for the remainder of the trip. We will provide more information on a separate post regarding Japan trip planning and recommendations.
Our trip began as we arrived at Narita International Airport (NRT) and took the Narita Express into the city. We were using the Japan Railpass to do this which we will cover more in our Japan tips and tidbits blog post, however, there are many way to get to Tokyo from NRT. We decided to stay at a hotel chain called Karaksa throughout our trip due to their locations proximate to many of the areas we were exploring. They pride themselves on being a family friendly hotel which was vital as we were traveling with our 18 month old daughter. The Tokyo Station location was great as it was less than a 5 minute walk from Tokyo Main station and was were we took the Shinkansen to go to Osaka, which we will go over in our Osaka specific post.
During this trip we explored many different areas of Tokyo which included, Ginza, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Harajuku, Ueno, Asakusa, Akihabara, and Roppongi. Our trips mainly focus on food but eating at restaurants in Japan with an 18 month old can be challenging as not all restaurants are conducive to young toddlers, especially those with limited seats.
Tokyo Station
Tokyo Station may be where you find yourself arriving once you land, however, Japan, train stations themselves are destinations. They are one of the most unique and fun experience as a foreigner and offer shops and restaurants that make traveling easy and exciting. Tokyo Station embodies this as its shear size and scale are beyond refute. Getting lost in the station is quite easy as it is several levels and shops and restaurants opens are endless. From Ramen Street to the numerous outlets of mall style dining options, one should not go on an empty stomach as you will want to eat everything you see. Better yet, plan a few hours on an off day to explore the station and do just that, while also shopping for all the treats and gifts you want to buy for friends and family (Or yourself!)
Tokyo Station is more than just a transportation hub; it is a cultural, commercial, and architectural marvel that embodies the spirit of Tokyo. With its stunning design, diverse shopping and dining options, and its role as a transportation nexus, Tokyo Station serves as a dynamic gateway to the city and an integral part of the Tokyo experience.
Ginza
Welcome to Ginza, Tokyo’s renowned shopping and entertainment district, where elegance, sophistication, and a vibrant cultural scene converge. Boasting high-end boutiques, world-class dining establishments, and a rich history, Ginza has long been regarded as one of the most glamorous and prestigious areas in the city.
Ginza is located next to Tokyo Station and was easily accessible from our hotel. With 2 lines that would take us there within 5 minutes or a 15 minute walk, we can arrive to Ginza and enjoy the higher end shops awfully reminiscent of 5th Avenue in Manhattan. The shops and food options are endless and we dined at a Yaktori restaurant to experience many of the quick bites that you would typically find in an Izakaya. These establishments are a quintessential part of Japanese dining culture, providing a cozy and relaxed setting where locals and visitors alike can unwind after a long day or simply enjoy a casual night out while offering Japanese style tapas. Yakitori is often one type of dish you find due to its ease of eating and the fact that you can keep eating them all night long if you choose. As we were with our toddler, we felt having a sit down restaurant to experience this cuisine was a better option. See the photos for a variety of what we ate.
Ultimately, Ginza embodies elegance, sophistication, and a fusion of tradition and modernity. Whether you seek upscale shopping, fine dining, cultural experiences, or exciting nightlife, Ginza offers an enchanting blend of luxury, culinary delights, and artistic expressions, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a truly memorable Tokyo experience.
Shinjuku
Welcome to Shinjuku, a bustling district in Tokyo that pulsates with energy, excitement, and an unrivaled array of attractions. With its towering skyscrapers, neon-lit streets, vibrant entertainment, and diverse shopping options, Shinjuku offers a captivating blend of modernity, culture, and urban charm.
Unfortunately, we didn’t get to experience the night life during this trip but we have on previous occasions and would tell you that is a must do if you don’t have children with you and are wanting to really experience the Tokyo night life.
In Shinjuku, you will find amazing shopping and food that are must try’s. Our day was one of our only rainy days in Japan. Due to Japans climate and unpredictable weather pattern, always expecting rain is usually a good call. However, we had significant downpour and by the end of the day, we were soaking wet, in our hotel room using a hair dryer to dry our shoes. But, the day was well worth it. We first arrived around 11am after traveling to Asakusa in the morning. We proceeded to walk to Shin Udon and found ourselves in a queue (Typical for Japan). However, one of the staff came and informed us that we needed a ticket to queue. The ticket said we needed to return in 180 minutes. Having had this restaurant circled on our must go’s, we were up for it and decided to walk around the main Shunjuku’s main area while we passed the time and did some window shopping. The downpour made it challenging but we were determined.
Finally, we felt enough time had passed and proceeded back to the restaurant. Japan is not the most stroller friendly country, we will cover this more on our tips post, but we were prepared as we had a travel stroller that would fold up. However, due to the weather and small size, we elected to park our stroller outside the restaurant and confirmed with the staff it would be okay. Japan is super safe so we felt comfortable doing this although we were a little hesitant, we had been waiting so long and we were soaking wet, I felt if someone was going to take the stroller, I wished them the best. Finally, we sat down and ordered, and the food was well worth it. Our little one loves noodles and she ate every bite of her udon and even wanted ours.
We were all so full after this we couldn’t eat dinner. We walked around a bit more and went to Kabukicho’s (Tokyo’s Adult oriented area) and saw Godzilla at the top of Hotel Gracey to burn off some of the calories we ate before heading back to the hotel and calling it a night.
Shinjuku embodies the spirit of Tokyo: a vibrant, ever-evolving blend of tradition and modernity. From its dazzling skyline to its intimate alleys, this dynamic district invites you to immerse yourself in its multifaceted charm. Whether you’re captivated by its neon-lit nightlife, exploring serene gardens, indulging in retail therapy, or savoring mouthwatering cuisine, Shinjuku promises an unforgettable adventure that showcases the vibrant essence of Tokyo’s urban playground.
Shibuya
Welcome to Shibuya, the beating heart of Tokyo’s youth culture and one of the most dynamic and exciting districts in Japan. With its iconic crossing, vibrant streets, fashionable boutiques, and bustling nightlife, Shibuya has become synonymous with trendsetting fashion, cutting-edge music, and a lively atmosphere.
Shibuya similar to Shinjuku has nightlife that is a must do, but one we decided to skip as it would not be as enjoyable with the little one and could impact others attempting to have a night out. Instead, we elected for some walking around the shopping areas, checking out the new(ish) Miyashita Park which is a beautiful area to take kids to and spend a few hours. With plenty of space for them to play and food options below, it’s amazing to be in a park in the middle of the busy city 4 stories up. There is also a hotel that overlooks the park called sequence. One which we had considered but ultimately went with Karaksa due to the family friendly features.
After spending some time in the park, we walked around a bit more before going to the main Shibuya crossing area. The cross seemed to be a little less busy than prior to COVID however, crossing with people going in every direction is a feeling that takes some time getting used too. We saw the statue of Hachikō, who’s story is not only heartfelt but the ultimate feat of loyalty. We had booked Shibuya Sky and had to enter the building between a certain timeframe so we elected to find food at the Shibuya Food museum where the wide range of food had us scrambling to make a decision. Luckily, Marugame Udon who has many locations with some in the states was promoting a new dish and giving away free udon in a cup, which our little one devoured. Her love of noodles rivals the love she has for me!
Shibuya Sky offers a mesmerizing experience that allows you to see Tokyo from a whole new perspective. From its exhilarating ascent to the panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see, this sky-high adventure promises to leave you in awe. Witness the iconic landmarks, immerse yourself in the tranquil Sky Garden, and savor the delights of dining and shopping while surrounded by Tokyo’s breathtaking skyline. Shibuya Sky invites you to rise above the city’s concrete jungle and discover the magic of Tokyo from the heavens. We attempted to go towards the end of daylight so we can see Tokyo while the sun is out and while the sun goes down. However, any time of day offers great views. The only issue is on a gloomy day, it would be hard to see the 3 main viewpoints of Tokyo Tower, Skytree and Mt. Fuji. Fortunately, we were able to catch a glimpse of all 3. Seeing the famous crossing from the sky also looks amazing as the crossing looks like an ant farm. The observation deck has 2 floors, one open to the air and one underneath with floor to ceiling glass and panoramic views. Personally, the feeling you get with no obstructions is nice, but to see the city in more detail, being in a closed setting, I felt I could sit all day.
Shibuya encapsulates the essence of Tokyo’s youth culture, combining fashion-forward trends, vibrant energy, and a unique blend of old and new. From its bustling streets and iconic landmarks to its thriving fashion scene and lively nightlife, Shibuya offers an unforgettable experience that showcases the dynamic spirit of Tokyo’s trendsetting hub. Whether you’re captivated by the famous Shibuya Crossing, exploring hidden backstreets, or immersing yourself in the latest fashion trends, Shibuya promises an adventure that will leave you inspired and longing to return to its youthful embrace.
Harajuku
Welcome to Harajuku, the vibrant and eclectic neighborhood in Tokyo that has become synonymous with avant-garde fashion, quirky trends, and a celebration of individuality. Nestled between the bustling streets of Shibuya and the serene gardens of Yoyogi Park, Harajuku is a haven for fashion enthusiasts, art lovers, and anyone seeking an immersive cultural experience.
We went to Harajuku prior to going to Shibuya as we felt it would be good to visit during the morning and early afternoon before it gets very busy. We simply walked through the area and ate Ramen at AFURI. There speciality is Yuzu ramen and was a perfect lunch to give us energy to continue the rest of our day.
Harajuku is a captivating neighborhood that embodies Tokyo’s vibrant and ever-evolving youth culture. From its fashion-forward streets to its artistic expressions and culinary delights, Harajuku offers a sensory experience that is both visually stunning and culturally enriching. Embrace the creativity, celebrate individuality, and immerse yourself in the lively spirit of Harajuku—a place where fashion, art, and youth culture collide in a glorious explosion of color and innovation
Ueno
Welcome to Ueno, a district in Tokyo that is revered as a cultural haven and a treasure trove of history, art, and natural beauty. Nestled in the northeastern part of the city, Ueno offers a delightful blend of serene parks, world-class museums, bustling markets, and a vibrant street atmosphere.
We went to Ueno our second night in Tokyo. We unfortunately, we still a little jet lagged and the little one was tired fro being out all day. We walked through the Ameya-Yokocho Market before heading to our dinner at Imahan. A sukiyaki restaurant that is known for the very delious beef offerings they have and have several locations throughout Tokyo. We had our own room and one of the staff cooking for us so we don’t ruin the meat, however, this cost slightly more to do. In our opinion, well worth it. We were all so concentrated in our food that even if we had to cook, we would have failed. We left the restaurant so full that we canceled our evening plans and went straight to the hotel to sleep.
Ueno captivates visitors with its rich cultural heritage, serene parks, and vibrant atmosphere. From exploring world-class museums and immersing yourself in nature at Ueno Park to indulging in local street food and experiencing the spiritual ambiance of temples and shrines, Ueno offers a delightful blend of experiences that showcase Tokyo’s diverse cultural tapestry. Immerse yourself in the magic of Ueno and discover a district that seamlessly blends history, art, nature, and culinary delights, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Asakusa
Welcome to Asakusa, a district in Tokyo that embodies the rich cultural heritage and historical charm of Japan’s capital city. Nestled on the eastern bank of the Sumida River, Asakusa is renowned for its ancient temples, traditional architecture, bustling markets, and a vibrant atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.
We got off the metro and walked along the Sumida river to look at Tokyo Skytree from a distance. Unfortunately, it was slightly rainy so the photographic nature of the building wasn’t to be found. But the calmness of walking the area early in the morning with few people connected us with the local feeling of being from the area, and allowed us to picture how morning walks as a local would feel. We walked to Sensō-ji Temple from there and experienced the serene experience of this unique temple. Unfortunately, many of the small shops leading to the temple that makes this area truly unique were just opening so we did not experience them. We proceeded to go for breakfast and ended up at McDonald’s as McDonald’s in Japan offers very unique menu items that here in the US we don’t have.
Asakusa is a timeless district that captures the essence of Tokyo’s cultural heritage. From the awe-inspiring Sensō-ji Temple to the tranquil Asakusa Shrine, the district’s historical sites offer a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual traditions. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Nakamise-dori, cruise along the Sumida River, and indulge in the district’s culinary delights. Asakusa’s allure lies in its ability to transport you back in time, providing a captivating blend of history, tradition, and a quintessential Tokyo experience.
Akihabara
Welcome to Akihabara, the vibrant district in Tokyo that pulses with the energy of technology, anime, manga, and gaming. Known as the electronic mecca of Japan, Akihabara is a haven for geeks, enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an immersive experience in the world of cutting-edge technology and pop culture.
Between all the themed cafes, arcades, shops and dining options, spending more than a few hours here for anime and manga enthusiast would be hard. We first started with lunch at Kikanbo, a ramen restaurant known for its spicy ramen. They go from no spice to devil spice levels. The theme of the restaurant is dark and full of dark wooden planks, with appropriate music to make you feel you are about to encounter a devil spirit and battle them in the scenic nature of Japan’s forest. As a spice lover, I find many restaurants that make their names by offering “Spicy” dishes to lack taste, but Kikanbo was different. The noodles and meat balance the spice well allowing for a tingly and spicy bite but one that you can’t stop.
After eating the delicious ramen and feeling the burn in our stomachs, we decided to walk to the main street of Akhiabara and spent some time in some claw machine arcades before doing some more shopping. Due to the late nature of our lunch, we were so full that we ended up getting Tayaki, a fish shaped pastry traditionally filled with red bean. We got one with custard as well to try as I am a big fan of the Japanese custard flavor.
Akihabara is a vibrant district that embodies Tokyo’s fascination with technology, anime, manga, and gaming. From exploring the vast electronic shops to indulging in the world of otaku culture, Akihabara offers a unique and thrilling experience that is sure to captivate tech enthusiasts, anime lovers, and pop culture aficionados alike. Immerse yourself in the electric wonderland of Akihabara and discover a district that is at the forefront of innovation and the heart of Japanese pop culture.
Roppongi
Welcome to Roppongi, a bustling district in Tokyo that is synonymous with entertainment, nightlife, and vibrant cultural experiences. Known for its lively atmosphere, international flair, and diverse range of attractions, Roppongi offers a captivating blend of modernity and tradition.
Our time in Roppongi started with a visit to the More museum as they had a new Disney themed exhibit that opened only 3 days before we went. The experience was an immersive display of video and and audio that combined Disney classics with projection animation. This lasted about an hour as we walked through the different rooms which got us hungry enough for our lunch. We had reservations at Ryotei Manpuku, a Yakiniku restaurant where we were able to enjoy our first cuts of Japanese Wagyu on our trip. With our own little room, the little one was enjoying the food and then running around keeping us on our toes. The meat really stands out as we ordered 2 types of varying quality and truly got to taste the difference between he premium variations and the generic beef. After filling ourselves up with beef, I had planned to visit a pizza place to try as I had read and heard so much about it, however, it was closed on Monday’s and I didn’t realize that until after lunch. Pizza Studio Tamaki(PST) is on my list for my next trip but would recommend for any fellow pizza enthusiast out there to try.
We then proceeded to a tayaki shop that has a slightly variation on the traditional style with a different fish and filling. The dough they use made the cake more crunchy and was an enjoyable take on a traditional dessert. This was the perfect item to complete our time in Roppongi before we headed to the hotel to get some rest before our dinner.
Roppongi is a district that pulsates with energy, offering a wealth of entertainment, art, culinary delights, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re seeking a vibrant nightlife, cultural immersion, or culinary exploration, Roppongi has it all. Immerse yourself in its dynamic atmosphere, embrace the creativity of its art scene, indulge in diverse culinary offerings, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Roppongi truly embodies the spirit of Tokyo’s dynamic and cosmopolitan character.
Many other areas of Tokyo are worth exploring but this trip was condense and we decided to hit these spots mainly as some in our party had not been to Japan before and we built this itinerary to provide a taste of Tokyo. We did go to Tsukiji outer market which is must try if you enojy seafood. While the actual seafood market has moved, you cna still expereince fresh seafood for reasonable prices. Other item near Tsukiji is the art exhibit for Tokyo TeamLabs. This is a must visit for those looking to take stunning photos or just wanting to experience unique environments.
Our experiences showed us that Tokyo’s hospitality is an art form that seamlessly blends tradition, attention to detail, and genuine warmth. The city’s commitment to providing unmatched service elevates the visitor experience, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed, valued, and cared for. Whether you’re exploring the city’s breathtaking attractions, indulging in its culinary delights, or simply enjoying the comfort of your accommodation, Tokyo’s hospitality culture will leave an indelible impression on your journey. Prepare to be embraced by the spirit of omotenashi as you embark on an unforgettable adventure in this extraordinary city.
