[JAPAN] A GUIDE TO TOKYO & KYOTO

Last month I visited Japan for my summer holiday. I spent my time touring around Tokyo and Kyoto – two amazing cities with lots to offer a tourist on the lamb. Here’s a list of my favourite spots for sleeping, eating, drinking, etc.  Enjoy!

Xx, Jenn

TOKYO

Stay

 

The Peninsula Hotel – Stay here for 5-star service and comfort with views of the Imperial Palace, in an electronically-enhanced room, which includes a TV in the bathroom, a nail dryer in the vanity, and a supped-up toilet bowl. And the latest copy of Japan Vogue.

Eat

 

Sushizanmai – Sit at the counter for a show of supreme cutlery skills and order the tuna sashimi platter with a couple of beers.  The red tuna (pictured above) was excellent.

 

Kaikaya By The Sea – Visit this casual eatery for their fresh fish dishes as well as unique ice cream flavours on tap, from cherry blossom to black sesame.

 

Jomon Roppongi – Take your shoes off and get comfy at the bar while the grilled tapas and plum sakes keep coming. (Hint: Wear socks if you’re not into “no shoes” rules.)

See/Shop

 

Takeshita Street and Laforet Mall – located in the Harajuku district, check out this bustling street and department store for contemporary and youthful fashion finds. (Hint: The mall is air-conditioned, a relief on hot days.)

  

Senso-ji’s Halls –  For a little piece of spirituality in the city, visit this shrine which is surrounded by outdoor stalls and small boutiques, perfect for souvenir shopping.

Ana Festa at the airport – Here you can find Tokyo Bananas, a soft Twinkie-like cake, filled with caramel banana flavoured crème. They are a crowd pleaser for kids and offices alike, and are almost impossible to find outside of Japan.

KYOTO

Stay

  

Matsui Honkan Ryokan – Stay at this inn for a very traditional Japanese experience, where you can get your kimono on. The mattresses are low and the service is high, with very friendly and hospitable staff.

Eat

 

Bistro Waraku – A contemporary wine bar serving Italian comfort food because sometimes you just need some spaghetti, even if eaten with chop sticks.

See/Shop

 

Fushimi Inari Taisha – Don’t miss this stunning site of spirituality, where man meets nature. Allow yourself 2 hours to walk up the mountain under the large orange wooden shrines, with scenic views of the city seen along the way. (Hint: It’s not a difficult hike, but I recommend comfortable shoes.)

 

Kiyomizu-dera Temple – Up a small street filled with vendors (another perfect place to souvenir shop), this a temple and pagoda that look out over the city.