Tokyo is not just a city—it’s an experience that feels as vast and varied as a country. I once heard someone say, “In London, you could live your whole life visiting a different bar, pub, or restaurant every day without ever repeating.” If that’s true for London, then Tokyo would take two or three lifetimes to explore truly.
Knowing this, I didn’t set out to “know” Tokyo. Instead, I let myself feel its energy, embrace its pace, and wander its streets with curiosity. My plan was simple: keep the itinerary light, allow room for spontaneity, and enjoy the moment. Tokyo is too great to conquer in a single visit, but I could at least try to capture its essence.
From Breakfast Machines to Bustling Streets
My first meal in Tokyo set the tone for the adventure. In Ginza, a vending machine at a tiny noodle shop became my guide. With no photos, no translations, and no idea what I was ordering, I took a leap of faith.
For less than 4 Euros, I was rewarded with a steaming big bowl of ramen (a delicious soup with noodles), a smaller bowl of rice, and a third small bowl with a raw egg in it. Unsure what to do with the egg, I discreetly observed the locals and copied their technique—a fun and interactive start to the day! The ramen was pure comfort in a bowl, the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth and sets the tone for the rest of the day.
What truly amazed me, though, was how incredibly fast Japanese people eat their ramen! While I was savouring every bite, they were already finishing and moving on with their day. Their speed was almost as impressive as the ramen itself!
We then planned to visit the Imperial Palace, only to discover it was closed that day. A small hiccup, but it redirected us to one of Tokyo’s most iconic sights: Shibuya Crossing and also the Shinjuku area. Standing at the epicentre of this organised chaos was mesmerising. The energy, the rhythm, the sheer number of people—it was like being part of a living, breathing organism.
Nearby, the Hachiko Statue reminded me of the quiet strength of loyalty and patience. Later, we wandered into Nonbei Yokocho, a nostalgic alley of tiny bars and eateries, where we enjoyed a cosy dinner. The charm of this area was undeniable, a perfect contrast to Shibuya’s neon energy.
Old Tokyo Meets New
The next day, we started with a walk through the Tsukiji Outer Market. It was vibrant and alive, but I’d recommend exploring smaller places nearby for a more relaxed and authentic experience. The market itself can be overwhelming and pricey, but its atmosphere is worth soaking in.
In Ningyocho, I found my favorite taiyaki at Yanagiya. This shop has been a local favourite for decades, and for a good reason—the teriyaki was so perfectly crispy and filled with sweet red bean paste that I couldn’t stop at just one.
We moved on to Yoyogi Park, a peaceful retreat where we watched performers and soaked in the local vibe. From there, Harajuku’s colourful chaos awaited. Takeshita Street, with its quirky fashion and vibrant energy, reminded me of Camden in London. Although famous for its elaborate crepes, I decided to pass—sometimes, soaking in the atmosphere is satisfying enough.
A Glimpse of Tradition
Asakusa was a highlight of the trip, offering a blend of modern and traditional Tokyo. Walking through the bustling Nakamise-dori, I found myself drawn to second-hand kimono stores, where each piece told a story through its intricate patterns. Visiting Senso-ji Temple, I felt the weight of history and the beauty of Japan’s spiritual heritage.
Of course, I couldn’t resist another sweet treat—ningyo-yaki from Kimura House. These pigeon- and doll-shaped snacks filled with red bean paste were as delightful to look at as they were to eat.
The day ended at Tokyo Skytree, where we caught a stunning sunset. Watching Tokyo shift from day to night, with Mount Fuji in the distance, was one of those moments that felt too perfect to be real. The city below sparkled as if it were alive, and for a moment, time stood still.
Tokyo’s Lessons
Tokyo is a city of endless contrasts: the sleek modernity of skyscrapers meets the nostalgic charm of places like Yanaka Ginza, a shopping street that felt like stepping back in time. It’s a city where you can visit anime-inspired cafés or sip tea in a traditional tea house, all on the same day.
It’s also a city that teaches you to let go of control. My meticulous plan fell apart at times, but those detours led to unexpected joys. Tokyo reminded me to breathe, observe, and embrace the beauty of the moment.
There’s no way to see it all, and that’s okay. I’ll carry these memories with me, knowing I’ve only scratched the surface. Tokyo is not a city to check off a list—it’s a city to keep coming back to again and again.
Tokyo, and perhaps all of Japan, feels almost unreal. It’s so different from the rest of the world that I found myself constantly asking, Is this real? Walking through its streets felt like stepping into a movie—or better yet, a dream—where everything is possible and exists harmoniously. There’s no chaos, only order. Respect flows seamlessly through every interaction, beauty is in the smallest details, and nature finds its place even in the heart of the metropolis.
And yes, before anyone rolls their eyes, I know Japan is not a perfect country. It has its challenges, just like any other. But that doesn’t take away from its ability to make you feel like you’ve entered a different dimension—a place where dreams and reality blend effortlessly.
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