Joanna James
A thematic city of cutting-edge technology and atmospheric tradition, Tokyo serenades tech-savvy gypsies and bohemian sojourners with animated arenas straight out of a futuristic video game. Here’s all that a technophile can’t afford to miss in Japan’s electric Capital.
With its irresistible contrasts of era-defining architecture, edgy street fashion hubs, technicolour culture-infused enclaves, and state-of-the-art recreation rendezvouses, Tokyo grabs the senses like a football match played on fast-forward. If you’re a vintage collector, a modern tech head, or a gaming fanatic, Tokyo’s renowned Electric Town will thrill you to your toes with its gigantic billboards, neon-lit extravagance, and colour-blocked shops spilling retro collectables and newfangled gadgets evoking both multi-generational nostalgia and the satisfaction of being on-trend. Other dynamic diversions include driving around the vibrant streets in a life-sized Mario Kart, trying out the addictive enigma of capsule toy machines, and browsing through Yodobashi-Akiba’s nine stories of life-elevating electronics. After all this overstimulation, head to Aki Oka Artisan to shop for local designer wear and hop between picturesque cafes under the JR tracks.
An unparalleled hi-tech hangout spot, Tokyo Bay’s futuristic island hub blends art, culture, science, nature, and technology to create masterpieces that will move even the most hard-to-impress globetrotter. Once you reach this glitzy floating emporium via the Tokyo Mizube Line water bus, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer scope of parks, malls, museums, and restaurants to dip into. However, make sure you don’t miss the kaleidoscopic realms of interactive art at teamLab Borderless, DiverCity Tokyo Plaza with its gargantuan Unicorn Gundam statue, thrilling experience-based attractions at Tokyo Joypolis, and an after-dark joyride across the surreal Rainbow Bridge. To be swept away by heart-stopping games and performances that feel all too real, head to Immersive Fort Tokyo, and make groundbreaking VR-simulated discoveries at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation.
If you’re a tech fiend with a soft spot for tradition, Asakusa is a prime spot to revel in softly falling Sakura blossoms, beautiful old-world Japanese craftsmanship, and sensational shopping arcades lining secret backstreets. Its iconic Nakamise Shopping Street, for instance, is the prime spot for snazzy new electronics, along with its enticing assortment of casual kimonos, custom-designed sandals, speciality snacks, and handcrafted souvenirs.
If you’re not quite on board with the garish metallic clash of robot restaurants, the kitschy cosplay of maid cafes, or the anime-inspired arcades that suck you into a world of their own, Roppongi Hills will cater to your more upmarket tastes subtly elevated by customer-centric technology. From 4-D marvels and ultramodern art collectives to high-rising masterpieces and next-level dining, this deluxe district is truly worth the pull on your budget! If you’re seeking sophisticated serviced apartments in Shinjuku that offer premier access to Tokyo’s techy havens, venture no further than those offered by the likes of Oakwood Apartments Nishi Shinjuku Tokyo.
Adrenaline junkies can also benefit from Tokyo’s audaciously avant-garde flair. For instance, the fastest accelerated rollercoaster in the world awaits at Fuji-Q Highland Theme Park, with the spectacular dazzlement of Mount Fuji in the background.
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 passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
