Start here for an introduction to Japan.

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Ahh Tokyo, I didn’t really know what to expect of the world’s largest city when we arrived late on our first night in Japan. I’d seen all the pictures anyone else has, from the neon, endless buildings, to the throngs of people at Shibuya Crossing. It was odd, but the first thing I noticed was how clean it was…coming from the US, our big cities can range from dirty to downright disgusting, so it was jarring to see sidewalks that I would consider eating off of. Tokyo is obviously huge, but it is extremely easy to get around, and is actually home to two different metro systems, which can get a little confusing at first. The pace here is frenetic, but organized to a level not seen anywhere else I’ve been. I liked Kyoto a little better, but of the limited “Global” cities I’ve been to (London, Paris, New York, Rome, etc), Tokyo is far and away my favorite. Of the endless districts to choose from, we stayed in Shibuya. I suppose this is a bit like staying in Times Square in New York, but we wanted to be amidst the craziness. Surely there are other areas that are more my speed, but I enjoyed staying here and felt like I got a good immersion in the Tokyo you see on TV. It also is somewhat centrally located with great metro access, making it a great hub.

Where We Ate

Our time in Tokyo is a bit of a blur, I don’t recall many, or really any, of the restaurants we went to, but I do remember how incredible the food was. If it looks good, check it out, it probably is.

Where We Drank

Sansa: We had an awesome experience at this beer centric eatery in Minato. I wish we would have eaten here, but had already made other plans, so we sat at the bar and proceeded to share some world class beer and conversation with the bartender/owner. Definitely seek this place out.

Goodbeer Faucets: This Shibuya bar is a more laid back craft beer option. Situated on the second floor, it’s spacious ambiance offers a wide selection of craft beers overlooking the streets below.

Golden Gai: This famous network of tiny bars packed along narrow alleys of Shinjuku is a must see. This tiny area is home to over 200 bars, most of which have room for less than 10 people, and often only 4-6 at a time. Many of the bars have a theme, with a little something for everyone, but we had a bit of trouble finding one that would allow us in…As 3 guys who were obviously foreigners, we were turned away from numerous bars before we found one that would let us in, even if they were empty. It was a bit odd, but eventually we found one and pulled up to the bar. We started talking to the bartender and he informed us that many of the bar owners are leary of outsiders for one reason or another, hence our difficulties. When we left to hit another of the bars, he wished us well with a simple “Good luck.” After being turned down a few more times, we found another friendly place and made some quick friends with a couple locals, trading drinks of Japanese Whisky and Kentucky Bourbon. Because of Golden Gai’s…lack of initial hospitality, it can be a bit intimidating, but stick with it; our night out here is one of my favorite travel experiences. 

Robot Restaurant: Another famous spot, although I had never heard of it until my buddies got us a reservation for Tokyo’s version of dinner and a show. I didn’t really know what to expect, but what I got was some sort of laser robot musical opera. We opted to just drink and not eat, as the food seemed expensive for what it was; after seeing the offerings, this was probably the right call. It was quite the experience, if this is your thing go for it, but if it doesn’t sound up your alley, don’t worry about skipping this Shinjuku staple.

What We Did

Tsukiji Market: This world famous market is located along the Sumida River in Central Tokyo and is another must see. The market is huge, offering anything from oysters, knives, and fish head anatomy lessons; so we just hopped around and ate at any stall that looked good. The market has been renovated since we were there, but I’m sure it’s still amazing.

Pachinko: Check out the “Japan Intro” post for a full write up on Pachinko, but you’ll see these parlors all over, so check one out if it sounds like your thing.

Shibuya: Shibuya is the commercial hub of Tokyo and has endless things to offer. We chose to stay here in an attempt to fully immerse ourselves in the craziness of this modern city.

Ebisu: This is the district just to the south of Shibuya and home to some amazing food, including the Ebisu Yokocho food alley.

Harajuku: Another hub of Tokyo, this just to the North of Shibuya and home to colorful streets and endless shopping.

Shinjuku: Somewhat similar to Shibuya, Shinjuku is home to many restaurants, bars, and shops.