How to Spend 24 Soothing Hours in Tokyo

standalone
Dec 5, 2019
3 min read

Known as the world’s most populous metropolis, Tokyo is also a great city for eco conscious travelers. Earlier this month I came back to this wonderful country recognized for its incredible culture and amazing food, to discover new places I’ve never been to. In this article, you will find key addresses that you should visit if you want to experience the beauties of the country of the rising sun.

Start the day by enjoying a delightful Japanese breakfast at Yamazato, located 8 minutes walk away from Kamiyachō subway station. There, you can enjoy wonderful seasonal delicacies, fishes and other dishes. I recommend you to book a private room if you want to invite other people (especially japaneses) to fully enjoy this experience.

After that, you can take the subway at Tameike-sannō subway station to go to Shibuya district. When arriving at the station, take time to enjoy the “Myth of Tomorrow” giant mural by Taro Okamato on the second floor of the station. It is a representation of an atomic bomb explosion in reference to the disasters which occured in Hiroshima and Nagasaki during the Second World War.

Most commons things to do in Shibuya is obviously to take a picture at Shibuya Crossing (very popular by night) but also to do some shopping. If you are interested in buying locally made pottery and matcha tea, you can head to Journal Standard’s branch located in the district.

From Shibuya, you can walk to the Meiji Shrine. This famous place is dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort. Here you can also visit the Meiji Jingu Museum or have a walk in the inner garden which offers you a tranquil moment in contrast with the surrounding area.

Then, if you still want to escape from the hurry of the city to relax and breathe, Yoyogi Village is the perfect place for you (6 mins by walk from the Meiji Shrine). Yoyogi Village, which literally means “generations of trees” offers an nature-oriented mall. Everything you will find here from the restaurants to the retail stores is promoting an eco-conscious lifestyle. In addition, you will also find some music bars and an art gallery.

From the village you can walk 15 min to reach Jimbocho station and take the Shinjuku line until Shinjuku station. About 10 min walk away, you will find the imperial Palace. It has served as a residence for the Emperors since 1868. With its beautiful parks and gardens, the palace offers once more an island of respite.

Near by, you can also discover the Hibiya Park which is usually described as an oasis of calm.

From Hibiya Park, you can walk to Toranomon Station and take the Ginza line until Aoyama-Itchome Station. From there, you just have to walk 5 mins to reach Narisawa. This wonderful restaurant proposes a world-class menu made from local and ethical food. It is one of the most renowned restaurant in Japan and in the world. For the chef, cuisine is related to Satoyama. In Japanese, it refers to the border zone between mountain foothills and flat land. Accordingly, Narisawa’s menu feeds not only your body but also your mind. I promise, you will be amazed by the cuisine. The omakase-style course is tailored every day. They can also adapt your menu to your needs (allergies, vegan, macrobiotic diets).

If you want to sleep in Tokyo, I highly recommend going to the Peninsula Tokyo which as become Japan’s first luxury hotel to receive EarthCheck Silver Certified Status. This well-located hotel (opposite the Imperial Palace and Hibiya Park in Marunouchi district) offers incredible views of the capital and amazing facilities and services.