Movin’ and Groovin’
Getting around the city is a breeze with the uber-efficient rail and subway system. The city is even home to the world’s busiest train station. And you thought Grand Central Station in New York was chaotic!
Savour the Culture
The most famous cultural hot-spot in the city is Sensoji, a large 17th century Buddhist temple with a massive, domineering Japanese lantern at the gate, in the Asakusa neighborhood. Consider a guided tour on a rickshaw, a man-powered bike.
A trip to Tokyo is meaningless without a trip to the one, the only, Imperial Palace. Rebuilt after World War II, the grounds where the Imperial family lay their very own heads to rest, sports a large park, moats and massive stone walls straight out of Milan. Toyko Tower, modeled after the Eiffel tower in Paris, here you can enjoy the vast vistas of the cities, whether you enjoy the natural beauty of cherry blossoms or the man-made brilliance of neon signs.
Get Off Your Bum
And what would be a trip to Japan without seeing an invigorating sumowrestling event at the famed Kokugigan stadium (or a visit to the free museum!) Trust us, you’ll be standing by the end of this event that, according to urban legend, originally determined the supremacy of the Japanese people over another tribe on the islands of Japan. How’s that for a sweet sweaty reward!
If you’re interested in some nostalgic Disneyland fun with a modern twist, try DisneySea Park where seven distinct “ports” are home to wet and wild entertainment. A one-day adult resort pass is $58 USD.
Dress to Impress
Gwen Stefani made it popular in America. Harajuku style is the funky alternative apparel for teenagers which reins supreme in this same-named neighborhood. Don’t mistake this neighborhood for Paris. Omotesando, the Champ Elysee inspired promenade is home to the most sophisticated and European stores in the city. Take a break from “breaking the bank” with a Parisian cup of joe at a picturesque street café. If it’s not Paris, it’s New York! Ginza, the 5th Ave. of Tokyo, is host to the hottest department stores as well as cutting edge gadgets from the infamous Sony. Impress your friends at home and get whatever “it” may be here, before you can buy it in America!
Rest Your Head
Four Seasons Tokyo at Chinzan-so boasts a garden of Eden-esque indoor pool solarium with a retractable roof. Your head may never leave the lap of luxury to explore the city after all! four seasons.com /tokyo/pool.html.
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Tokyo prides themselves on their exquisite glass lobby, voted the best in the world by travelers. If this doesn’t take your breath away, you’re obviously not breathing hard enough! mandarinoriental.com.
Sing, Drink, Dance Your Heart Out
It’s nighttime in Tokyo and admit it, you are “lost in translation.” Time for a visit to Karaoke-Kan, the karaoke bar shown in the film, where you can sing your heart out (in English) til the wee hours. Rooms go for $25, which includes some drinks.
Womb, voted the number seven best club in the world, happens to be the filming location of Brad Pitt’s “Babel” and is a must-go on your Tokyo to-do list!
Drink up sake and beer fans. Home of the social “sake bomb” promises to spice up any night.
Tempt Your Taste Buds
For your sushi fix there is no better place to go than Tsukiji Fish Market, Japan’s largest wholesale market bustling with merchants and tourists alike. Try the small restaurants near the exit and tantalize your tongue by ordering “omakase” (chef’s choice).
Another gourmet adventure is a trip to Gyoza Stadium, a food theme park where the best chefs of these minipastry pies stuffed with coconut, pork or sausage, have set up shop to make your mouth water.
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