Our editor will take you along!
Ikigai, the Japanese secret for a long and happy life, is something we in the West do not know very well. Explaining this concept is difficult, but once you arrive in Japan, you will understand it immediately. Ikigai is a Japanese concept that stands for what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs and where you can earn a living. And you can feel that vibe everywhere in Tokyo. The city is vibrant and very subdued at the same time. Just as paradoxical as the people who live there. Open and closed at the same time. It is also said that nowhere else will you experience such hospitality, friendliness and civility as in Japan. And there is so much to do!
Glamials Annelies was in Tokyo for five days and recommends seven things that should not be missing from your itinerary. From shopping and singing in Ginza and a visit to the Tsukiji Fish Market, to the famous Shibuya Crossing of Tokyo tower. But also: get out of the city to Hakone, run a 5K or walk past the Emperor’s Palace, or a trip to Mount Fuji.
Don’t feel like arranging it yourself? You can also book these activities directly in addition to your stay via Booking.com. This way you can arrange not only your accommodation, but also attractions, flights, and so on. Handy, such a one-stop shop!
1. Shopping and singing in Ginza
This should certainly not be missing from your schedule during your trip. Especially on Sundays when it is car-free and therefore pedestrian heaven, you can spend your money here. All the big houses are located here and you will find the most beautiful shops on every street corner. Don’t forget the big department stores. At the bottom there is often an extensive caterer service with a wide range. Just looking at it is an experience, let alone tasting it! We can tell you that your mouth will water.
Walked out and ate? Then head to the karaoke bar to end the day. With a drink in one hand and the microphone in the other, you will experience why this is a favorite relaxation moment for the people of Tokyo. Experience karaoke like never before during the events of the International Party Bar!
2. Tsukiji Fish Market
Do you want to taste fish that is fresher than fresh? Then visit the Tsukiji fish market. Our tip? Set the alarm early, because then it is still wonderfully quiet before all the tourists arrive. You see so many specialties on the market. Be sure to bring cash to pay directly at the fishmonger, where you can try the tastiest sushi and sashimi for a pittance.
3. Shibuya Crossing
2,500 people crossing the road – no, not per day or per hour, but every time the traffic light turns green – without colliding with each other? You have to see that. Take the metro to get to this busiest intersection in the world yourself. Afterwards you will probably want to cool down with a delicious ice cream in the shopping district behind it, but experiencing this intersection is an absolute must during your visit to Tokyo. The subway is very convenient, clean, punctual and fast in Tokyo. Purchasing a day pass is therefore definitely recommended.
4. Tokyo tower
Tokyo Tower, or the Tokyo Tower, marks the city’s skyline. The tower was built after World War II from the leftover metal from the tanks left behind by the Americans. So you see how beautiful peace can be. Okay, let’s be honest – it’s quite high if you take the little elevator up. Booking a ticket in advance is really necessary given the popularity of this hotspot, but then the view is really breathtaking.
5. Out of the city to Hakone
Hakone is the place where you can still experience authentic Japan, just a few hours away by train! This wonderful escape from the busy city is highly recommended, because here you can relax in a relaxing, healing bath in one of the many onsen with a day or two trip. This is a traditional bathing facility with water from Japanese geysers. These onsen are extremely popular with locals and tourists alike, and when you leave Hakone’s onsen completely refreshed, through green hills full of forests and flowers, you will immediately understand why. You have never been so close to nature.
6. Run (or walk) 5K past the Emperor’s Palace
Okay, real glamor cats like the Glamial readers may not sweat. But the Imperial Palace is a must visit during your visit to Tokyo. And don’t worry, you can also see the city’s main attraction on foot. Yes, to view it, because only the beautifully landscaped gardens are open to the public all year round. Unfortunately, the palace itself is not accessible. But there is a 5-kilometer walking route around the palace that is definitely worth it.
7. Mt Fuji
From the Tokyo Tower you have a great view of Mount Fuji. And this mountain is of course very famous in Japan and far beyond. Just the sight of it live is so beautiful, even from a distance. Because you regularly encounter it in images, it is as if you already know the mountain a little. A day trip to Mount Fuji is a great way to get back into nature.
Enjoy to the fullest
In short: Tokyo is crazy cool – there is a lot to see. Ginza is the old part of the city (and also the most expensive), but it is really very special to spend an overnight stay during your stay. And the food? That is, in a word, great.
You will of course find many good sushi restaurants everywhere and even the fast food sushi is great! And further? In Japan you have never felt so intensely connected to nature, even in a busy city. An absolute must-visit!
Header image: Adobe Stock | Other image: Annelies Pijper
