TOKYO

On the one hand, you see a culture that is deep-rooted in traditions, on the other, it leaves you scratching your head.

A Racquet Social Travelogue

 Haneda Airport

Haneda is closer to Tokyo city than Narita. Public transportation into the city costs less than ten dollars.

Stay

Tokyo hotels can get pricey. Airbnb, with 500+ listings, is an option. Look for an accommodation close to a subway station.

Shibuya Crossing

The first thing I did was to head over to the popular scramble crossing located in front of the Shibuya Station.

- Carry cash or an IC Card - Tipping is uncommon - Taxis are expensive - Uber service is limited - 7-Eleven stores sell food - English speakers are few - Street signs are in Japanese

Tips...

Temple Tours

Meiji Shrine & Senso-ji Temples are must see. Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples are scattered around the country. 

Asakusa

The Senso-ji Temple is located here. You can buy souvenirs from the craft shops and sample street-food along the streets near the temple.

Imperial Palace Gardens

The beautiful and serene Tokyo Imperial Palace is the residence of Tokyo's Imperial Family. 

Explore Tokyo Harbour

Take to boat ride to Odaiba Island, the high-tech entertainment hub on an artificial island in Tokyo Bay

There are plenty of food options in Tokyo

Japanese curry

Yakitori at Izakayas

Ramen noodle soups

Sushi to die for

You can eat within your budget

Pick from over 200 Michelin-starred restaurants, or explore izakayas and bars tucked away in alleys.

 I stumbled upon the annual Yebisu Beer Festival held in the Yebisu Garden Place, formerly a brewery.

Beer Festivals

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A Karaoke Bar in Shinjuku where the "salary men" come to relax after a hard day's work.

Tired of sushi?

Try the Japanese curry. You can also find non-Japanese options such as burgers from Burger King or McDonald's.

Pachinko

Sort of like a pinball machine, Pachinko is Japan's workaround for gambling, which is officially illegal. The system of payouts can be confusing.

Tokyo Station

If you think New York's Grand Central Station is grand, you should see Tokyo Station! It is located in Marunouchi business district near the Imperial Palace grounds.

Akihabara

The electronic district of Tokyo has outlets ranging from tiny stalls to large department stores, some of which are decidedly bizarre.

TOKYO

TOKYO

It is one of the cleanest and safest cities that I have ever visited.  You should go!