TOKYO
Japan, including all the cities, is a world in itself, and you can't even get through exploring it all during one trip. Its an endless fascinating country- a MUST-SEE for any travel lover, soaking in the phenomenal history of the Japanese culture but also learning about modern life that the city has developed into. Not to mention the mouth-watering food on every corner, you just can't go wrong with any choice.
A few tips I learned while visiting:
Language- Mostly everyone speaks Japanese, so I would recommend downloading the Google Translate app to make everything more accessible (especially when going to a restaurant and where the staff doesn't speak English).
Sanitation- There are no public garbage cans on the streets or are very rare to find. It is good to put your garbage in another bag and hold onto to it until you get home.
Public Transportation- Its only natural to get frustrated and confused for the first few days, so definitely take the time and familiarize yourself with the transportation map. Also, be respectful while on public transportation. Many people stay off their phones and are silent.
ATM- a lot of places don't take card, so the best areas to take out cash and always secure are 711 ATMs. They are everywhere, which is super convenient.
I’ve listed below my top Tokyo favorites for some travel inspiration :)
Chidorigafuchi Park
I knew going to Chidorigafuchi Park (a section around the Imperial Palace) would be one of the best and prettiest places to see the trees. The park area around the imperial palace is massive and also they have little boat rentals!
Best views of the Chidorigafuchi Park! The perfect Tokyo postcard
The park is filled with these gorgeous cherry blossom trees. Absolutely a must visit!
More stunning cherry blossoms as I stroll through the large park area surrounded by moats and massive stone walls; this is where the current imperial palace is located.
Nakameguro
Meguro River is a must during sakura (cherry blossom) season as well! Along the river, red lanterns hang on both sides, and vendors set up stalls along the narrow side streets. They sell the usual festive attire, as well as pink champagne or sparkling wine by the glass!
Meguro River. A perfect place to hanami (cherry blossom viewing). So surreal!
Yanaka Ginza
Yanaka Ginza is one of Tokyo's most quaint and aged districts where it was untouched by WWII. It is home to artisans, temples, and some great restaurants. Although crowded, it's an excellent place for a half-day stroll in Tokyo and to try some amazing street food!
Here is the entrance of Yanaka Ginza. One of Japans oldest and traditional shopping districts!
This looks so basic but its absolutely amazinggg! This is called Menchi Katsu- basically a fried meat cake. Sounds weird, I know, but it was such a good combo with our Asahi beer. YUM!
Takoyaki in Yanaka Ginza! A popular snack or appetizer in Japan- a dumpling filled with octopus. Its very hot so be careful when you bite into it!
Shozo Coffee Store
Shozo is this cute tiny wooden coffee hut which shows great reflection of Japan and its modest design and charm. Its hard to find even looking at your maps but it is located at the side entrance of the outdoor market 246 Commune, serving delicious coffee and biscuits!
How cute is this coffee hut!?
Absolutely in love with this design!
The perfect way to start your morning- comfortable atmosphere, minimalist ambiance.
Tsukiji Outer Fish Market
One of my favorite places to get mouth-watering sushi is the Tsukiji Outer Fish Market. The worlds largest “Food Town” and busiest market serving fresh sushi, just all I ever wanted. Just walking through the walkways will amaze you with all that it has to offer! Definitely worth checking out!
Also another favorite of mine! Oysters here are so delicious!
This is what real wasabi looks like!
Otoro (fatty tuna) literally melts in your mouth. SO SO GOOD!
Yokohama
Fun Fact: I used to live in Japan as a kid for three years, and it has always been on my list to go back ever since! It was a different experience of course, one I'll never forget, especially going back to my old school and seeing where my home once was. I lived in Yokohama on Negishi Heights Navy Base and went to St. Maur International School. It was honestly one of my favorite highlights of the trip staying in Yokohama because it brought back so many memories. I saw myself living here again- just loved every moment.
Little Jackie went to school here! I would take the city bus every day with my siblings.
Reminiscing my childhood days as I walk down the streets of my old neighborhood.
Its just as I remembered! K-12th grade, this school is massive!
Absolutely loved this ramen joint called Ichiran! The ramen is so simple yet amazing and the ordering experience is so unique!
Shinjuku
Shinjuku is one of the more colorful districts in Tokyo! Each region is big enough to be its own city and easy to get lost. If you go into it with an open mind, it'll be so fun to wander and explore and see where you end up!
The lights and atmosphere were incredible to see! There definitely is a night life here and worth checking out.
Tsukiji Kiyomura Sushi- Yummy tuna and great nigiri, everything here was so fresh and well made!
The Golden Gai! Famous for the narrow streets that are filled to the max with unique little cozy bars! You can enjoy a night of bar hopping with different bar environments but heads up- watch out for some bars charging steep cover fees.
Spent the last few days of my trip in Shinjuku. Soaking up their culture has been absolutely amazing! I left a piece of my heart here when I was a child, and will leave it there while I continue to travel and grow.