Written by Tom Hooker

As someone from a different culture, you can easily spend months going through Japan’s beautiful cities and towns, slowly taking in endless amounts of millenary culture, delicious food, and colorful sights. 

But, what if you only have a few days or weeks?

Then, Tokyo is definitely your best option to experience everything this awesome country has to offer in one single location. Here are five emblematic activities to experience the best of Japanese culture in Tokyo.

#1. Stay at a Traditional Ryokan

Have you ever noticed how hotels are portrayed in traditional Japanese movies and shows? This style of accommodation is known as a Ryokan and it consists of small inns that are managed by their owners. Ryokans have been around for more than 1000 years and offer a peek into traditional Japanese culture. When staying at this type of hotel, you’ll notice:

• Rooms have plenty of light
• The floors are made of tatami, a type of mat usually found in martial arts dojos
• There are common areas designed for guests to commingle
• The owners and staff members are usually available and happy to chat

You can stay in a ryokan in any area of Tokyo, but the Asakusa and Yanaka neighborhoods are known for their ryokans and other traditional establishments.

#2. Visit the Different Parks in the Heart of Tokyo

Tokyo is known as one of the technology and fashion capitals of the planet. But, when you get there, the first thing that jumps out is the wide array of parks and green spaces around the city. As a matter of fact, park hopping is one of the activities you’d be wise to partake in because it’s a great way to soak up the vibe in different neighborhoods. 

Want some suggestions? Here are a few great parks you should visit:

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
• Yoyogi Park
• Jindai Botanical Gardens
• Musashino Park
• Nogawa Park
• Inagi North Green Space Park
• Meiji Jingu Gaien

#3. Check Out Kusama’s Awesome Museum

Yayoi Kusama is one of the greatest artists of our generation, and there is no doubt that her work is now seared into the fabric of human identity. If you’re into her art, then make some time to visit the Yayoi Kusama Museum. Spoiler alert: the exhibits are all either artwork of Kusama herself or related materials. 

#4. Taste (and Take Pictures of) Crazy Foods

We’ll never know if it’s a direct result of Kawaii culture (which centers around having a cute appearance), the rise of social media, or a combination of both, but taking pictures of crazy foods is a thing—a big thing—and Japan is the best place for it. 

Want to showcase a unique type of food that everyone will be able to relate to? Walk around the Harajuku area and you’ll see Insta-worthy foods you won’t be able to resist, like giant cotton candy. Just remember to take a pic before you tuck in!

#5. Take a Break in an Izakaya Alley 

Izakaya alleys are among the most iconic Japanese traditions. In short, an Izakaya alley is a narrow street filled with establishments where you can eat, drink, and have a good time. What makes Izakaya alleys so special? Well, the intimate setting provides a real glimpse into the lifestyle of most locals, which varies hugely from what you see on the main walking streets and shopping areas. 

To sum up, with seemingly endless amounts of beauty, tastiness, and drip, it’s easy to see what all the fuss is about as soon as you get to Tokyo. Now, it’s up to you what type of experience you want to have. If your stint in Japan’s capital is short, we recommend that you arrive with a plan and make the most out of your time there. 

You certainly won’t regret it because Tokyo is that kind of city. 

Planning Your Trip to Tokyo and the Rest of Japan

Getting to and around Tokyo is relatively easy—it’s one of the perks of visiting such a global metropolis! Creating a succinct list of things you want to do and places you want to visit? Now there’s a challenge. The good news is that you don’t have to suffer immeasurable amounts of FOMO while creating your own itinerary. 

Instead, you can always reach out to local guides that know Tokyo like the back of their hands and get help from people that make a living by knowing the top attractions and activities in the city. With ALLMYNE, you can choose from a collection of local certified guides, get to know their story, and ensure that you see the most fun and memorable side of Tokyo.