How to spend your weekend in Tokyo – An electrifying getaway

Japan’s capital, Tokyo, is an energetic city bustling with activity of every kind, from lively street and fish markets, crowded crossings to elegant parks, historic temples, and towering skyscrapers. Tokyo is a beautiful blend of the past and the future, a classic example of old meets new. With the diverse range of things to see and do, spending a weekend here might seem impossible. All it takes is some thoughtful planning. Here is how you can spend a weekend visiting the best of Tokyo.

Asakusa

Begin your first day at Asakusa, home of the historic Senso-ji temple. Located at the end of Nakamise shopping street, Senso-ji is a 1400-year-old Buddhist temple identified by its signature red lantern. Many visitors gather around a cauldron placed in front of the temple, as it is believed that the incense burned inside promotes health. On the left side of the temple stands a renovated pagoda of 5-storeys, considered the second tallest pagoda in Japan.

Ueno

Next, head to Ueno, which features an open-air market transformed from the black market it once was during World War II. If you fancy some shopping, head to Ameyoko Street in Ueno. A must-visit is Ueno Park, the largest in Tokyo. Home to the Tokyo National Museum and the National Museum of Western Art, Ueno Park gives you a chance to revel in the glorious sights of the cherry blossom trees dotted all over the park.

Akihabara

Akihabara,Taito City in Night | Image via  Unsplash

If you manage to pull yourself away from the serene surrounds of Ueno Park, head to Akihabara, home of Japan’s pop art culture. From anime-themed and maid cafes to video game markets and toy stores, Akihabara provides something for everyone, irrespective of whether you are a pop art fan or not. With its massive neon billboards, pachinko parlours, and arcade machines, it is evident why Akihabara is dubbed Tokyo’s electric city. Don’t forget to get a souvenir on your way out.

Ginza

Head to Ginza for some up-market shopping options, including department stores and boutiques featuring luxury brands as well as a plethora of eateries. Some of the store structures in Ginza have been around since the Edo period.

Tokyo Skytree

End your day at the Tokyo Skytree, the world’s tallest tower. The Skytree, standing at 634m, offers magnificent views of Tokyo. At night, you get a bird’s eye view of Tokyo’s frenzied and electrifying atmosphere, highlighted by its brightly lit skyscrapers and neon junctions and billboards. Head to Skytree Town for some delectable dining treats and shopping.

Shibuya

Begin the second day of your weekend at Shibuya, notably Shibuya Crossing. Also known as the Shibuya Scramble, this intersection is regarded as one of the busiest pedestrian crossings globally, with more than 1000 people crossing at any given time. It is Tokyo’s very own Times Square. Many hotels in the area, including Cerulean Tower Tokyu, are located mere minutes away. The busyness of the site is electrified by the giant billboards, video screens, and neon signage located around the intersection. If you fancy an aerial view of this crossing, head up to the Shibuya Sky rooftop observatory. Do stop by the Hachiko Statue, a memorial sculpted to remember the city’s beloved dog who was devoted to his owner.

Harajuku

Next, head to Harajuku, a town comprising fashion stores, souvenir shops, a Disney store, hipster cafes, crepe, and candy floss stalls. Be sure to make a quick dash down Takeshita Street for an exhibition of unique Japanese fashion styles. Not to be missed is Yoyogi Park. If your chosen accommodation is a hotel in Tokyo Shibuya, then the park is within walking distance. Spread across 134 acres, Yoyogi Park features lush green lawns, Japanese Zelkova trees, and a large pond. Since your time is limited, settle for a short stroll through the park.

Roppongi

If time permits, head to Roppongi. This is a modern city featuring towering skyscrapers, high-end restaurants, and Roppongi Hills. Roppongi Hills is a commercial area that houses art galleries, a cinema, international restaurants, and an observatory and hosts film festivals.

Ebisu

Ebisu is your destination for authentic Japanese cuisine. Deriving its name from the god of fishermen, Ebisu comprises a diverse range of restaurants and bars. Head to Ebisu Yokocho, a passageway strewn with food stalls offering classic Japanese eats such as yakitori, okonomiyaki, takoyaki, and kushikatsu.

Shinjuku

Finally, end your weekend in the trendy city of Shinjuku. Shinjuku resembles Japan in a nutshell, from shrines, temples, and parks to hipster cafes, high-end stores, restaurants, izakaya bars, and karaoke clubs. It is the perfect culmination of your eventful weekend, guaranteeing relaxation and entertainment. Shinjuku is also home to Shin-Okubo, Tokyo’s Koreatown, offering tantalizing Korean cuisine and fashion.