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MATOKA'S ALL TIME FAVORITES IN TOKYO
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items These are places that I have to visit time and time again when traveling in Tokyo. As someone who lived there and frequently visits, I know my way around the city and have a list of spots that I need to go to, or at least bring people so that their T...
Sections
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Where to go
What to eat
Where to go
As someone who has lived in Tokyo, I don't appreciate the SUPER TOURISTY places that a first timer may enjoy. So if you're looking for a mix of touristy and calm places to relax, these are the places that I would recommend.
I find this lowkey shopping street on the way to Shibuya very peaceful. You can take your time shopping the little boutiques, grab a coffee at one of the many cafes, or sit down and have a bite to eat or a glass of wine.
Tomigaya 1-chome St, Shibuya City, 東京都
If you don't mind the crowds, Asakusa is definitely a go-to for me. It houses one of the oldest temples in Tokyo, has a lot of great street food, and if you're staying nearby, you can visit it at night for some super photogenic shots!
Asakusa
Mostly famous during the cherry blossom season (but I made a mistake of going during peak blossom this year and got lost in the crowds), this area is great to walk along the river to see some of the shops and restaurants!
Nakameguro
If you're willing to wait in line for one of the few tickets that they give out daily, this is a go-to for me in order to enjoy their specialty coffee drinks and cocktails. I love the building and architecture inside as well!
Tokyo Roastery
I'm not an avid reader, but I always find Tsutaya in Daikanyama a go to spot to relax and hang out. It's great to catch up with friends and there are tons of shops around the area to visit as well.
Tsutaya Books Daikan-yama
You can find tons of Donkis everywehre, but for some reason this one is always my go to. Maybe it's because it is a bit less chaotically messy compared to the other ones that I've been to - it gives me the least amount of claustrophobia!
MEGA Don Quijote Shibuya Main Store
Not only home to the Shinjuku Gyoen Park (which you should definitely visit), the area north of the park holds tons of restaurants in a small, relaxed neighborhood that I know is good cause I used to live there!
Shinjuku Gyoenmae
I'm not a huge shrine go-er when in Tokyo, but this one is a must if you're in the Akihabara area (which you probably will be at some point). While many people go to pray for their electronic devices, this temple is also home to it's own miniature ho...
Kanda Shrine
Get transported to a magical forest featuring a bunch of shrines and temples, traditional Japanese gardens and a calm river with a walking path. It's one of the few calm spots in busy and bustling Tokyo.
Todoroki Ravine Park
Not too far from Tokyo lies Inokashira park, housing a temple, a zoo, a lake filled with cherry blossoms and boating opportunities, and of course, the Ghibli museum! There's also some great food spots and honestly the most amount of vegan restaurants...
Inokashira Park
What to eat
Food is an integral part of enjoying yourself, I would know! And I PROMISE YOU that these places won't disappoint.
I know that Japan may not be specifically known for their pizza, but I can never forget the meal that I had at this pizza-ya. A steampunk themed restaurant serving Neapolitan style pies that are to die for!
Seirinkan
I kind of think this can be a little touristy, but it's really cool to check out, especially if you're a ramen lover. Housed in Tokyo station, you can get your fill of many different types of ramen and then take a nap on the shinkansen!
Tokyo Ramen Street
IF YOU LOVE CHOYA YOU HAVE TO COME HERE! Featuring an all you can drink menu and an omakase course of food that keeps coming as you try different Choya cocktails and classic drinks, it's one of my favorite dining experiences in the Ginza area!
The CHOYA GINZA BAR
While it is a chain restaurant, AFURI is definitely my go to for good ramen. Using a chicken oil based broth and having charcoal grilled chashu is just the start - they also have citrus broths, vegetarian ramen, and a bunch of other options, also mak...
AFURI
I know a good burger and this place gets me everytime! Japan might not be known for their hamburgers, but this small diner-esque restaurants does them right!
burger kitchen CHATTY CHATTY