City Adventures: Tokyo

            Tokyo is the capital of Japan and home to over thirteen million people.  As the world's largest city, the metropolis of Tokyo is a must on any world traveller's list.  The vast city could take a lifetime to explore and can be intimidating for any visitor.  While you could likely spend all your time wandering around the city, absorbing the atmosphere, taking pictures, and poking into random shops here are a few quintissential Tokyo adventures not to miss.





1.) Sleep in a Capsule Hotel.

            Capsule Hotels were developed as space saving budget hotels and while they are not glamorous they are a unique experience you'll want to try.  If you are not claustrophobic that is.  Each capsule generally provides just enough room to sleep in.  Bathrooms are communal and luggage is stored in a locker.  Keep in mind that many capsule hotels are male only.  For a capsule hotel that caters to both sexes check out the Capsule Hotel Shinjuku 510.




2.) Explore Tokyo's Shopping Districts.

            Shopping in Tokyo can be a daunting task so start by figuring out what you want to shop for.  Check out the Akihabara district for electronics and manga or anime related merchandise.  Ginza is perfect for upscale shopping.  Shimokitazawa is the perfect place to look for Japanese street fashions.  And of course keep an eye out for vending machines selling just about anything you could imagine.



3.) Tsukiji Fish Market.

            Tsukiji is the worlds largest fish market and a must see for any visitor to Tokyo.  Keep in mind however that an early start is required, business at the market is already winding down by 9 am.  The live tuna actions begin around 5 am., but before you go make sure you check to see if public access to the auctions is permitted.  When exploring the fish markets get sushi for breakfast, the fish is guaranteed to be fresh.



4.) Imperial Palace.

             Though the inner palace and gardens are closed to the general public on all but two days of the year, there is still plenty to see in the palace complex.  Behind the high walls and moats which surround the site a guided tour is available however only conducted in Japanese.  For English speakers electronic audio guides are available free of charge.  While there make sure to explore the imperial palace gardens.



5.) Ghibli Museum.

            A tour of the Ghibli Museum's sprawling, playful interior is a must for any anime fan.  The museum was designed by Hayao Miyazaki and features the work of Studio Ghibli, the renowned anime studio.  Make sure not to miss the Studio Ghibli short-films shown on the bottom floor of the museum.  Would be visitors should keep in mind that tickets must be purchased in advance for specific days.


6.) Meiji Shrine.

            The Meiji shrine is the most famous Shinto shrine in the city and perfect for gaining some peace and quite amongst Tokyo's hustle and bustle.  Leave your prayers tied to the prayer wall and come on Sundays for your best chance at seeing a traditional wedding procession.




7.) Karaoke.

            Check out a favorite Japanese past time by heading to a local Karaoke bar.  Certain bars like Smash Hits, Jan Ken Pin, and Gigabar allow you to do Karaoke in front of a crowd, rather than in a private room meant for small groups of friends, and have large english song cataloges.





8.) Tokyo Tower.

            The iconic Tokyo Tower is the second tallest tower in japan and has drawn over 150 million visitors since it opened in 1958.  Museums, restaurants and shops are located at the base of the tower but its real draw are the two observation decks that offer views of the city.  On weekends and holidays it is possible to access the tower's outside stairwell and hike up 660 steps to the tower's main observatory.








9.) See a Sumo Match.

            There are three grand Sumo tournaments, in January, May, and September.  Ryogoku Kokugikan is Tokyo's national sumo hall and a good place to catch the action.  If its not a tournament day, the best way to catch a Sumo match is to see an early morning training session at a sumo stable.  You're best bet is to call ahead to ensure that spectators are welcome during training matches.


10.) Watch Summer Fireworks.

             There are two main fireworks shows to see in Tokyo if you get the chance.  On the last Saturday of July the Sumida River Fireworks are lauched over the river.  The best viewing is from the parks along the rivers banks and these parks are generally very crowded during the show.  Around the Sensoji Temple, streets are lined with food vendors and outdoor seating for good viewing.  The Second Saturday of August is the other main fireworks show of the summer over Tokyo Bay north of the Rainbow Bridge.


11.) Ameyoko.

             This street market is also known as "candy store alley" and here you can find anything from clothing to spices to unique collectables for a bargain.  While hunting around for good deals make sure to check out some of the food vendors. The market is the perfect place to try out unique and traditional japanese dishes.



12.) Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.

            The best time to visit the gardens is in late march and early april when the cherry blossoms are flowering.  Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the three different types of garden, a traditional Japanese garden, a French garden, and an English garden.  If you miss the cherry blossoms, fall is another good time to explore the gardens when all the leaves change color.  The Japanese maple trees are especially beautiful during this season.  Autumn colors typically appear starting in mid-November.