I had the absolute pleasure of going to Tokyo last year with one of my favorite brands, Cle de Peau. Tokyo is one of those cities where it pays off to do the work and research before hand as there are so many spots, so many hidden gems. But there is a lot of info out there! So I wanted to put together my quick hitlist for you all.
Fly: ANA. The business class lay flat seats can fit two people as opposed to most American based airline first class seats that are narrow and feel more like you are in a tube. The food is also authentic and better than most not to mention the impeccable service. AND there is all you can eat(at least that is what I called it) Hagendaaz. Its expensive, but there are so many ways to hack it so you can use miles!
STAY: AMAN. Again, this is a bank breaker. The Aman Tokyo is a step above a typical 5 star hotel experience and there is such a sense of place with the interior design of the hotel. The indoor rooftop pool was so special. Don't skip out on the traditional Japanese breakfast! Also, if you don’t want to spend on the room, you can just pop by for a tea or a drink.
DO: Meiji Shrine is gorgeous and special to see, but a little touristy. You can find mochi stands and souvenir shops along the way and get your luck read at one of the stalls.
DO: Get your nails done Tokyo Style at Nail Mafia in Harajuku. I got out of my comfort zone and went nuts. Anything that is in your brain, they can do! It did mess up my nails for a few months because I didnt have them removed properly but I would do it all again.
EAT: Matoi Ginza. One of the best meals I've ever had. And I dont even eat meat!
GO: Make a day trip out of Hakone and go to the hot springs.
DO: Shop in the restaurant district for really great priced dishes (Dengama), or knives (Jikko) I went with the chef of Matoy Ginza to get the knives! Bonus points: this district is the place where they sell all the fake food that you see in restaurants as examples.
EAT: 7/11! They have amazing, fresh nori, rolls, really good ice cream treats, etc. Totally different (and better) than US 7/11. It’s interesting the most of the “convenience” or “fast food” seems to just be healthier and fresher than in the US. Make sure to try COOLISH.
DO: Shop!!! Go to Don Quixote for all your souvenir needs. All things japan at a lower price but warning: Sensory overload! Also, just for fun, try the Gacha Gacha vending machines for a fun souvenir surprise.
DO: Walk around the Imperial Garden. Start your morning there to walk off jet lag
DO: The Fish Market. They cater to tourists (there are locals who shop there too) but there is also super yummy food to try.
Additional tips: If you are planning on going in the summer, prepare for extreme heat and fatigue. I also heard that the vintage shopping is incredible in Tokyo but I think the secret is out and its not the same market as it was. Prices were super high and inventory was limited. Maybe if you are a size 8 or below you can find some resale clothing. Speaking of clothes…I couldn’t shop for any lol. But I did buy a cool pair of Nike’s in a mens 10.5 so there is that!
Also, bring your Megababe :)
xo
Katie
bucket list! someday!!!!!!
Always bring the megababe!! saved me on my Germany trip this summer!!!