Tokyo
Old streets, new perspectives
Pair temple streets and small neighborhood restaurants with museums, gardens, and the city's contemporary side. Plan by district rather than crossing Tokyo for every stop.
Standout food
3 STARTING POINTS- 01
Edomae sushi
Look for Tokyo-style sushi, with roots in preparing fish from Edo Bay. Choose a counter that suits your budget and ask before photographing the chef or other diners.
- 02
Monjayaki in Tsukishima
This soft, griddle-cooked batter dish is a local specialty. Ask staff to help with the first round; ingredients and seafood content vary.
- 03
Soba and tempura
A useful neighborhood lunch pairing. Buckwheat noodles and dipping sauces can contain wheat; dashi commonly contains fish.
Things to do
3 STARTING POINTS- 01
Walk Asakusa to the Sumida River
Visit the temple area, then follow the riverside paths. Keep shopping streets and worship areas clear rather than stopping in the middle of foot traffic.
- 02
Choose a museum day in Ueno
Build a day around one major museum and the surrounding park instead of trying to visit every collection.
- 03
Browse Yanaka and nearby backstreets
Allow time for small shops and cafes. These are lived-in neighborhoods, so keep voices low and respect private property.
Places to see
3 STARTING POINTS- 01
Senso-ji
Asakusa's major Buddhist temple and its approach streets are a good introduction to the older city.
- 02
Meiji Jingu
A wooded Shinto shrine precinct near Harajuku. Follow shrine etiquette and any photography restrictions.
- 03
Tokyo National Museum
A substantial introduction to Japanese art and archaeology in Ueno. Check which galleries and special exhibitions are open.
Curated starting points, not live availability. Suggested stays exclude travel from your starting city and do not imply every listed site fits into one route. Confirm current weather, access, accessibility, and booking requirements before traveling.