Tokyo trips

Locals will genuinely appreciate any effort you make with the language. Here are a few basics to get you started:

• Hello: Konnichiwa
• Thank you: Arigatou gozaimasu
• Excuse me / Sorry: Sumimasen
• Yes: Hai
• No: Iie
• Where is…?: …wa doko desu ka?
• How much is this?: Ikura desu ka?

Tokyo moves fast—but it’s also one of the most orderly, respectful cities on the planet. A few things to know before you arrive:

• Bowing is the standard greeting. A small nod goes a long way.
• Talking loudly on public transit is considered rude—keep it quiet on the metro.
• Tipping is not customary in Japan and can actually be seen as offensive. Great service is simply the standard.
• Shoes come off often—at traditional restaurants, some temples, and ryokans (traditional inns). Wear slip-ons if you can.
• Cash is still king in many places, especially smaller restaurants and shops. Carry yen!
• Queuing is taken very seriously—always line up and wait your turn.

Tokyo has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world—and that’s before you even get to the convenience store snacks (which are genuinely incredible). Here’s what to eat:

• Ramen: Every neighborhood has its own style. Tonkotsu, shoyu, miso—try them all.
• Sushi: Go beyond the basics and try omakase (chef’s choice) for a truly immersive experience.
• Izakaya dining: Japan’s answer to tapas bars — order lots of small plates and wash them down with beer or sake.
• Convenience store food: 7-Eleven onigiri, egg salad sandwiches, and hot foods are a rite of passage.
• Matcha everything: Lattes, ice cream, Kit-Kats—embrace it.
• Yakitori: Grilled chicken skewers eaten standing at a smoky street stall? Yes, please.
• Tempura: Light, crispy, and best eaten fresh — especially in the older Asakusa neighborhood.

From ancient temples to futuristic skylines, Tokyo rewards the curious at every turn:

• Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa): Tokyo’s oldest and most iconic temple, framed by a stunning lantern gate and a bustling street market.
• Shibuya Crossing: The world’s busiest pedestrian intersection. Cross it. Feel the energy. Repeat.
• Shinjuku: Neon lights, towering department stores, cozy izakayas, and the city’s most electric nightlife—all in one neighborhood.
• Harajuku & Takeshita Street: The epicenter of Tokyo’s wild, colorful street fashion scene.
• Tsukiji Outer Market: Wake up early for fresh sushi and tamagoyaki like nothing you’ve ever tasted.
• teamLab Planets: An immersive digital art experience that has to be seen to be believed.
• Shimokitazawa: Tokyo’s answer to Brooklyn—vinyl record shops, vintage boutiques, live music, and indie cafés.

Japan’s culture is built on a deep sense of harmony, respect, and craftsmanship:

• Omotenashi: This concept of wholehearted hospitality means you’ll be treated with incredible care everywhere you go—from a Michelin-starred restaurant to a 7-Eleven.
• Wabi-sabi: The Japanese appreciation for imperfect, transient beauty—you’ll see it in zen gardens, aged pottery, and even the ephemeral nature of cherry blossom season.
• Group harmony: Being considerate of others is a cornerstone of daily life. Follow the lead of the locals and you’ll fit right in.
• Craftsmanship: Whether it’s a bowl of ramen or a handmade ceramic cup, the Japanese take immense pride in doing things well.

Tokyo is a year-round destination, but timing can make a big difference:

• Spring (March–May): Cherry blossom season is peak magic—parks fill with pink blooms and picnickers. Book early, it’s popular for good reason.
• Summer (June–August): Hot and humid, but alive with festivals, fireworks, and the infectious energy of a city in full swing.
• Fall (September–November): Arguably the most beautiful season—crisp air, fiery fall foliage, and comfortable temperatures perfect for exploring on foot.
• Winter (December–February): Cold but charming, with illumination festivals and far fewer crowds at top attractions.