Hi, all —
Appreciate the assistance in developing our itinerary. I asked ChatGPT to plot out some general elements based on research I did for different areas. As we only have seven full days in the country (excluding arrival and departure days), we are electing to remain in Tokyo to simplify logistics, recognizing we will hopefully return in the future. We will be in the city late April/early May. I have prioritized getting to a specific area and then mostly walking or taking short taxis rather than darting across different parts of the city in a single day.
We are a couple from the U.S., mid-30’s, and interested in food, fun/higher-end/unique shopping and cultural experiences, love to walk. We are somewhat interested in historic sites (I am interested, my wife much less so). We are *much less* interested in anime/manga and the like, and are simply opting to not spend time focusing on those elements of Japan.
The main things I am wondering are:
1. Are there major areas that would be of interest to us that I have not considered? Noting that we are not interested in things related to anime/manga, so have stayed away from e.g. Odaiba.
2. Are any of these days way too ambitious? Wondering if day 1 – or first full day in the country, so potentially jet lagged – should be saved for later?
3. Any great stores / restaurants / experiences that we should prioritize in any of the areas we are considering? Things we should be RSVP’ing for now?
1. We are open to reasonably $$$ experiences.
4. Are there other day-trips we should strongly consider besides Kamakura?
You’ll notice I have a “TBD” day to account for any new ideas or maybe simply to have a budgeted rest day. You’ll also note I haven’t budgeted Kamakura yet but certainly welcome suggestions there. It feels like trying to figure out Tokyo first is the first order of the day since we are leaving in three weeks or so.
Thank you!
#
**### DAY ONE ###**
# First Tokyo day (recover) – Shibuya, Harajuku, Meiji, Shibuya Sky
**Late Morning: Start in Shibuya**
Shibuya Crossing: Begin your exploration here to experience one of Tokyo’s most iconic sights. It’s close to your hotel, so it’s a convenient starting point.
Miyashita Park: After seeing the crossing, head to Miyashita Park for some leisurely shopping and brunch. The park offers a sophisticated atmosphere with numerous dining options.
**Early Afternoon: Harajuku and Omotesando**
Omotesando Hills & Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku: Focus your shopping here. These areas are renowned for their luxury brands and designer stores, fitting well with your desire for high-quality shopping.
Cat Street: For a more laid-back vibe, walk through Cat Street, which is known for its chic boutiques and cafes.
Harajuku Takeshita
**Late Afternoon: Meiji Shrine and Surroundings**
Meiji Shrine: Visiting in the late afternoon can be a peaceful experience, as the crowds tend to thin out. It’s a serene place to reflect and enjoy the tranquility.
Yoyogi Park: If you’re up for it, a stroll through Yoyogi Park can be refreshing before heading back into the more bustling parts of the city.
**Evening: Shibuya Sky and Dining**
Shibuya Sky THE ROOF: Make a reservation for sunset or early evening to enjoy breathtaking views. This experience will be a highlight of your day, offering a luxurious perspective of Tokyo.
Dinner in Shibuya: Choose a high-end restaurant in Shibuya to conclude your day with sophisticated dining. Shibuya offers a wide range of gourmet experiences that cater to every taste.
Others to note: MEGA Don Quijote Shibuya, Oriental Bazaar Harajuku, Aoyama
**### DAY TWO ###**
# Morning: Yanaka Ginza & Ueno Park
* Train to Nippori Station: Start your day with a trip to Nippori, easily accessible via Tokyo’s efficient train system. This area is your gateway to the nostalgic atmosphere of Tokyo.
* Yanaka Ginza: Experience the charm of old Tokyo in Yanaka Ginza, a street that encapsulates the Showa era’s atmosphere with its quaint shops and traditional snacks. While this area is more laid-back, it offers a unique glimpse into Tokyo’s past.
* Ueno Park: Next, head to Ueno Park, a spacious public park that’s also home to several of Japan’s premier museums and the Ueno Zoo. Given your preferences, you might enjoy a leisurely walk in the park or a visit to one of the art museums for a touch of sophistication in the morning.
# Midday: Lunch and Kuramae Exploration
* Lunch in Ueno or Asakusa: For a higher-end dining experience, consider restaurants like Wagyu Ichinoya Asakusa for exquisite Japanese beef or Onigiri Asakusa Yadoroku, the oldest onigiri shop in Tokyo, offering a refined take on this classic Japanese food.
* Kuramae: After lunch, make your way to Kuramae, known for its creative shops, artisan workshops, and trendy cafes. It’s a great place to find unique, high-quality goods and enjoy a coffee break in a stylish, hidden cafe.
# Afternoon to Evening: Asakusa Exploration
* Senso-ji Temple & Nakamise-dori Street: While Senso-ji is a well-visited spot, it’s worth seeing for its historical significance and beautiful architecture. You can stroll through Nakamise-dori for traditional crafts and snacks, focusing on the more unique and high-quality offerings.
* Denboin Garden (if accessible): This garden offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful landscapes. It’s a lesser-known spot that provides tranquility amidst the bustling city.
* Asakusa at Night: As dusk falls, Asakusa transforms. The area along the waterfront develops a trendy upscale dining scene. Explore the backstreets lined with casual izakaya bars for a sophisticated evening experience, or choose a high-end restaurant with views of the Sumida River.
**### DAY THREE ###**
Boutique, high-end, laid back areas south of Shibuya
# Morning: Shibuya to Daikanyama
* Start in Shibuya: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of Shibuya’s high-end cafes or hotel dining options before setting out.
* DAIKANYAMA T-SITE: An architectural marvel, this spot is perfect for book lovers and anyone who appreciates design. The complex’s serene ambiance is ideal for browsing through an extensive collection of books, including a notable vintage section. The attached cafe & lounge offers a sophisticated spot for a mid-morning break.
* Saigoyama Park: For a peaceful escape, visit Saigoyama Park. It offers beautiful city views and a quiet space to relax.
# Late Morning: Coffee and Stroll in Daikanyama
* Onibus Coffee: Known for its artisanal approach to coffee, visiting Onibus Coffee is a must for any coffee aficionado. It’s a great way to experience Tokyo’s vibrant coffee culture firsthand.
* Explore Daikanyama: Spend some time wandering through the area’s quaint streets, which are filled with boutique shops, small galleries, and unique architecture. Daikanyama is often likened to a Tokyo version of Brooklyn, offering a hip, relaxed vibe.
# Early Afternoon: Nakameguro
* Meguro River: Depending on the season, a walk along the Meguro River can be exceptionally picturesque. The area is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, but it offers a pleasant stroll year-round with charming cafes and boutiques along the way.
* Unique Shops and Galleries: Nakameguro is known for its independent fashion boutiques, home goods stores, and galleries. Take your time to explore and find one-of-a-kind items.
# Mid to Late Afternoon: Ebisu
* Ebisu Yokocho: For an early dinner or late lunch, head to Ebisu Yokocho. This alleyway is bustling with energy and offers a range of local delicacies in a lively atmosphere. It’s a great way to experience Tokyo’s dynamic food scene.
* Ebisu Garden Place: A sophisticated shopping and dining complex that offers a variety of high-end shops, restaurants, and a picturesque plaza. It’s perfect for an afternoon of leisurely exploration.
**#### DAY FOUR ###**
Tsukiji, Ginza, Imperial Palace
# Morning: Tsukiji Area
* Tsukiji Outer Market: Start your day here to explore the vibrant stalls selling fresh seafood, vegetables, and kitchenware. Even though the wholesale market has moved to Toyosu, Tsukiji Outer Market remains a fantastic place for breakfast or a morning snack, offering sushi, donburi, and more.
* Namiyoke Inari Shrine: A short walk from the market, this shrine is lesser-known among tourists and provides a peaceful contrast to the bustling market. It’s dedicated to the protection of those working at the market and has unique charms related to business prosperity and safe childbirth.
# Mid-Morning to Early Afternoon: Hama-rikyu Gardens and Around
* Hama-rikyu Gardens: As planned, visit these beautiful Edo-period gardens that offer a serene escape with seawater ponds changing levels with the tides. A tea house on an island within the pond provides a tranquil spot for matcha and sweets.
* Tsukiji Honganji Temple: Before or after Hama-rikyu, consider visiting this architectural marvel near Tsukiji. Its unique Indian-inspired design stands out in Tokyo, and the temple offers a quiet place for reflection.
# Lunch in Ginza
* Ginza Onodera Tempura: As you’ve noted, this is an excellent choice for high-end tempura. For a novel idea, consider trying a high-end sushi restaurant as well, such as Sukiyabashi Jiro or Sushi Yoshitake, if you’re interested in exploring the pinnacle of Tokyo’s sushi scene (advance reservations are a must).
* Alternative Lunch Options: For something different, Kyubey in Ginza offers an exceptional sushi experience that’s both traditional and innovative.
# Afternoon: Explore Ginza and Book Kabuki
* Book a Single Act Showing at Kabuki-za: As planned, this is a must-do for a cultural experience. Booking a single act is a great way to experience kabuki without committing to a full-length performance.
* Another tempura place near the above that is cheaper [Ginza Hageten](https://maps.app.goo.gl/sKWFfVYJHw3hLg6Y6)
* Tempura Kakiage Yukimura ([The Kakiage Master of Tokyo – Yukimura](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzRGhjwY0Dw))… a little far from Ginza proper.
* Ginza Six: Beyond your tempura dining plans, visit Ginza Six for upscale shopping and architectural beauty. It’s also home to a fantastic rooftop garden with views of Ginza.
* Mitsukoshi Ginza Store Roof Garden: Another hidden gem in Ginza is the rooftop garden of the Mitsukoshi department store. It’s a quiet spot for a break amidst shopping and sightseeing.
# Late Afternoon to Evening: Imperial Palace and Surroundings
* Imperial Palace East Gardens: If open, the East Gardens offer a historical and natural beauty tour within the city. The entry is free, and it provides a glimpse into the Edo-period castle remains and beautiful Japanese garden design.
* Chidorigafuchi Park: A short taxi or train ride from the Imperial Palace, this park is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season but offers a scenic walk and boat rentals for a relaxing experience near the palace moat.
# Dining and Evening Options
* Alternative Evening Experience: Consider dining at Roppongi Hills or Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi for a change of scenery, offering a mix of Japanese and international cuisine with stunning city views, especially beautiful at night.
* Explore Marunouchi: The area around Tokyo Station, including Marunouchi, offers elegant dining options and beautifully lit buildings at night, providing a sophisticated atmosphere for an evening stroll.
**### DAY FIVE ###**
Kamakura day-trip
* \~1-hour from Tokyo
* [https://www.reddit.com/r/JapanTravelTips/comments/18mrhlr/yokohama\_or\_kamakura/](https://www.reddit.com/r/JapanTravelTips/comments/18mrhlr/yokohama_or_kamakura/)
**### DAY SIX ###**
# Morning: Deep Dive into Shimokitazawa
* Breakfast in Shimokitazawa: Start with breakfast at one of its many cozy cafes.
* Vintage Shopping and Culture: Explore the eclectic mix of vintage shops, independent galleries, and small theaters. Key spots like Flamingo and New York Joe Exchange are perfect for unique finds.
* Review [https://tokyocheapo.com/locations/west-tokyo/shimokitazawa-2/](https://tokyocheapo.com/locations/west-tokyo/shimokitazawa-2/)
# Late Morning: Explore Sangenjaya
* Sangenjaya (Sangen-jaya): Just a few minutes by train or a pleasant walk from Shimokitazawa, Sangenjaya offers a mix of old Tokyo charm and modern cafes. It’s less crowded, allowing for a relaxed exploration of its narrow alleys and hidden gems.
* Carrot Tower Observation Deck: For a panoramic view of the surrounding area, the Carrot Tower offers free access to its observation deck.
* Lunch in Sangenjaya: Enjoy lunch at one of Sangenjaya’s local eateries, known for a variety of Japanese and international cuisines.
# Afternoon: Meander through Setagaya
* Shoin Shrine: Visit this serene shrine to experience a slice of local history and culture.
* Gotokuji Temple: A taxi ride within Setagaya will take you to this temple, famed for its Maneki-neko (beckoning cat) statues. It’s a unique and photogenic spot that provides a peaceful break.
# Late Afternoon: Return to Shimokitazawa
* Relax in Shimokitazawa: After your excursions, return to Shimokitazawa to relax at a café or explore any shops you missed earlier in the day. The area’s laid-back atmosphere is perfect for unwinding.
* Dinner in Shimokitazawa: Choose from an eclectic array of dining options, from cozy izakayas to international cuisine, for a memorable dinner.
# Evening: Leisure Time
* Shimokitazawa’s Nightlife: Consider ending your day exploring Shimokitazawa’s vibrant nightlife, with its array of bars and live music venues offering a casual yet lively way to experience the local culture.
**### DAY SEVEN ###**
TBD? / Day trip #2? / REST
* TBD
by oyepai