Arriving in Tokyo at midnight, we quickly discovered the Tokyo Metro system was a maze.
The Japanese are always willing to assist.
Most of them do not speak English but those who can will ask for help if they notice your confused gaze as you look at the map.
Tokyo’s metro does not run 24/7, so don’t get too late.
Our hotel was within walking distance, but we needed to get into a taxi to get there. The cost of the taxi ride would be around $30. Our hotel’s name is Horidome Villa and is situated in a nice quiet neighborhood, away from the touristy areas. Room was small but very clean. Service was excellent.
Our first stop was Senso Ji Temple.
We chose this free stop because it’s listed on all travel blogs and guides. It was also the perfect place to begin our journey into Japanese culture.
There isn’t much to see. The temple may be beautiful and its story is fascinating, but it is not very interesting. You walk down a long street full of shops selling food and clothing after the entrance. You then reach the shrine, which is covered by a net.
Tourists are everywhere. After a few photos, we left. Just outside of the shrine, you can play a fun little game. It’s there. It’s a secret!
Stay hydrated if you’re going to Japan during summer. It can be very hot and humid.
Fruity waters sold at metro stations are a great way to satisfy your thirst and try new flavors. Peach water is my personal favorite. You’ll like it if you love peaches like I do!
When you’re ready to eat, the best way for you to know exactly what food is being served at a restaurant and enjoy it locally is to choose the ones that display a wax replica of their menu outside the front door. This will give a good idea of what the place sells. Take a few photos and present them to your waiter. Kamiya Bar (3rd Floor) is located near the Sensoji Temple. We loved the experience!
For inspiration on day trips from Tokyo, watch our video about Yokohama and Hakone.
On the 45th level of Metropolitan Government Building’s two towers, there is an observatory.
This attraction is also free, and it will save you the cost of a Sky Tree ticket as well as the long lines. You can then stroll around Chuo Park. Kaijin Ramen, Shinjuku Station was the perfect place to end our day. It’s one of the tiny spots where locals hang out.
We also visited the Imperial Palace.
The palace was not visible from the garden, but we wanted to get some pictures of it. The palace is surrounded by walls, a moat and trees. We hoped to see its magnificent shape emerge from the trees. From the main entrance (Hibiya Metro Station), you can get the best views of the Imperial Complex.
Shibuya Crossing is the huge, crowded intersection you see on television when people talk about Tokyo. Wow! The crowd was so huge and noisy that we stayed for 15 minutes to snap photos and time-lapses, and just stare. In my travels, I never saw a group like that (yep, Piccadilly Square and Times Square are both places I’ve been).
Tokyo surprised me most because, in spite of the huge crowds, everyone behaves politely and with respect. The unique lifestyle gives order to chaos.
The best option for budget-conscious travelers is to have lunch in a shopping center, station or metro. In Japan, the culture of food doesn’t really care where it is sold. Fresh and healthy food can be found anywhere.
Harajuku is the last but certainly not least.
This is not something I found in any travel blogs or guides. I only know of it because Gwen Stefani was inspired by Harajuku Girls’ style when she made her music video. She also spoke about this experience on Chelsea TV. This is a vibrant and colorful neighborhood that’s worth visiting.