Tokyo
The only way to truly grasp the scale of Tokyo is to see it from above. From my perch 229 metres high at Shibuya Sky, the megacity stretches endlessly towards the horizon in every direction. Tokyo Tower and Skytree punctuate the skyline, while hundreds of people dash across the infamous scramble crossing below. The capital is the quintessential launch point for any journey through the best places to visit in Japan. From humble beginnings as a fishing village hundreds of years ago to being crowned the capital in 1869, Tokyo is now home to more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world.
Shopping
Sartorial jet setters should spend a day strolling Chuo-dori in Ginza and its fantastic array of international labels, from Chanel and Dior to Issey Miyake and Maison Margiela. Ginza Six is the department store of choice for the style cognoscenti, while Omotesando Hills is a premium indoor mall with boutiques spanning Harry Winston to Yohji Yamamoto’s Y3. Drop by the flagship Itoya store in Ginza for a next-level immersion into premium stationery. Should you be in the market for rare and collectible gaming, Akihabara is the place to be.
Signature experiences
Those seeking cultural immersion should make a beeline for Asakusa to take in the sensorial overload of Kaminarimon Gate, Sensoji and Nakamise-dori. Have your fortune told by a omikuji-sen, then sample daifuku and mitarashi dango from a local vendor. Afterwards, explore the surrounding streets and refuel at a local izakaya before journeying onwards. Looking for a quieter temple experience? Visit the Mausoleum of Confucius, Yushima Seido. It’s Tokyo’s only black temple and is almost always empty. Other areas of note include Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Cat Street, Meiji Jingu, Tsukiji Outer Market and Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
Day trips
Mount Fuji: A little more than two hours away by car, visit Chureito Pagoda for iconic views of Mount Fuji. Ride the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway to take in views over Lake Kawaguchiko, visit the cascades of Shiraito Falls or overnight in the hot spring onsen town of Hakone.
Kamakura: The coastal town of Kamakura is sometimes called the ‘Kyoto of Eastern Japan’ for its abundance of temples and shrines. The Great Buddha, Hasedera Temple, Hokokuji Temple and Hachimangu Shrine draw the largest crowds, though there are plenty more to see. Visit Komachi-dori street to sample Japanese sweets and savoury treats. Kamakura can be paired with a visit to the island of Enoshima.
Nikkō: Nestled in the forested mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, Nikkō enchants visitors with its UNESCO-listed Tōshō-gū Shrine, serene Kegon Falls and the peaceful Lake Chūzenji. Wander ancient cedar-lined paths, cross the famed red bridge or spend a day soaking in a traditional onsen.
Hakone: Stay at a traditional ryokan in Hakone, complete with private open-air onsen baths and multi-course kaiseki dining. Enhance the experience with a cruise on Lake Ashi, a scenic helicopter ride over Mount Fuji, or a private art tour at the acclaimed Hakone Open-Air Museum.
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