Curator’s statement
This was my first solo international trip, and I fell in love with Japan’s culture, food, and history. Tokyo is such a lively yet quiet city, and I have never experienced the type of peacefulness in a big city before. The food is one of the most memorable parts of the trip—anywhere you go, you will be fed very well. I highly recommend to just wander through the city, with no itinerary, and you will find very special parts of Tokyo you couldn’t find from planning beforehand.
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Things to do in Tokyo
Hamarikyu Gardens
The shopping was phenomenal in Tokyo—be prepared to buy and extra suitcase while you’re there because there are so many unique and cultural souvenirs you’ll want to bring back.
Visiting the temples was a must-do because of their history.
The fish market was a great place to have lunch to try a variety of unique foods.
Participating in a cultural experience like being part of a traditional tea ceremony was very fun and immersive.
You must try out a Seven-Eleven or a Family Mart! They have an overwhelming choice of foods and drinks, and they are all very tasty.
Visit a traditional Japanese garden. They cost very little to enter and the space is so beautiful and peaceful.
Places to eat & drink in Tokyo
Menchirashi—their carbonara udon
Any sushi conveyor belt restaurant is fun to try different types of traditional Japanese sushi.
Menchirashi has the best freshly made udon in Shibuya!
Ichiran is a good choice for solo travelers with their individual sections for customers, and they have delicious ramen.
Omoide Yokocho, also known as Memory Lane, has a variety of small restaurants and bars that give a very old traditional Japanese sensation.
Golden Gai is a tiny street in the middle of Shibuya that has many bars that can only fit a handful of people.
Need to know
If you are traveling to Japan in the summer season, I recommend bringing a small handheld fan, an umbrella, and taking water and AC breaks. The heat gets very intense, so be prepared!
You must bring comfy shoes if you don’t want your feet to hurt during your trip.
Prepare a list of places, restaurants, and activities you want to do on your trip (I can also help with this step!).
If you have time on your trip, I would recommend to have a day of wandering through different neighborhoods to find shops and restaurants to feel immersed in the city.
Travel Advisor
Alena Anderson
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Tokyo page.