Joanna James
Being the capital of Japan, Tokyo is home to an enchanting blend of modern and traditional such as skyscrapers and the shinkansen to traditional temples and the Imperial Palace. Whilst these beckons many visitors, the more discerning travellers welcome those hidden treasures this city beholds.
An ideal way to experience the look and feel of Tokyo in the pre-World War II (WWII) era. The three areas Yanaka, Nezu and Sendagi make up Yanesen. Although many parts of Japan were destructed due to air raids during WWII, the Yanesen area was unharmed and provides a charming interlude to those visiting from their serviced apartment in Tokyo. If you are in the area at dusk watch the breath-taking sunset at Yuyake Dandan Stairs.
Approaching this oldest temple in Tokyo fills you with anticipation due to the Kaminarimon Gate and the massive lantern which even at a distance catches your attention, the temple itself is strikingly hued featuring a five-storeyed pagoda. This is not only a religious site but also a cultural site in Asakusa.
This is a delightful place for those who love cooking, just a 15-minute walk from Senso Ji. The stretch of the street is packed with kitchenware. Created to serve the industry of food making, this street offers hours of delight to rookie chefs and lovers of cooking to pick up kitchen gadgets at great prices.
Can you imagine over 200 compact bars on one city block? That is what Golden Gai is. An unusual network of den-like bars and interconnecting alleyways on two storeys of one city block. Many visitors from Citadines Central Shinjuku Tokyo take the short walk to Golden Gai to witness the cosy atmosphere within the dens. In addition to savouring brews like sake, the customers frequently spot actors, musicians, and other celebrities within the precinct.
Take a stroll down this locality for shopping at unbelievable prices. You can pick up handicrafts, vintage clothing, souvenirs, and many more from the trendy stores, enjoy jazz music and even watch live music happening in this vibrant neighbourhood.
This residential neighbourhood along the Meguro River gets transformed into a paradise of pink and white cherry blossoms during springtime, witnessing it here is ideal for visitors as this area is mostly visited by locals and hence is less crowded.
The coffee specialists here possess a deep sense of pride in the process of coffee making, thus rather than the flashy show or the trimmings, you get your favourite blend as a product of quality. With many acquiring a taste for the brew you note popular names operating outlets here.
This is an ideal locality to enjoy local food side by side with locals for the intrepid visitor. The smoke-filled alley brightly lit with red lanterns invites you to settle down for a night of sake and yakitori, grilled chicken on skewers at attractive prices.
Away from the busy Shibuya area where tourists flock to capture images of Hachiko's statue, is a newer statue which was built in 2015, at the University of Tokyo where Professor Ueno his master taught. Created for Hachiko's 80th death anniversary, here Hachiko is gazing at his master, a poignant image for those who are touched by his story.
Situated at an intersection in the Kanda district of Tokyo, this book town is a dream come true to many bookworms with over 150 used book shops and publishing houses. Being in proximity moving from store to store is easy and English and other language books too are available here.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a pas...
