In The Land of the Rising Sun: 72 Hours in Tokyo

It’s probably fairly safe to say that whatever you’ve heard said about Japan–if you’ve never experienced it for yourself–is true. At least I found it to be so on my recent trip to Tokyo and some of its environs like Kamakura, for instance, which is absolutely a must see.

Japan had (and still does) remain an endlessly fascinating place to me–its people, culture, way of life; I find it all very intriguing. And, so do most people I’ve conversed with on the subject. Thus, it’s no reason that it’s been on my travel shortlist for some time. Fortunately for me, in November of last year, I got the chance to make the jaunt.

Getting to Japan is fairly easy and straightforward from most major North American cities. As a hotbed of world commerce, the demand for business travel is fairly high and thus plentiful are the options, in terms of airline carriers, to whisk you off on your journey. At last count, there were 5 carriers in the NYC area alone offering nonstop service to Tokyo-Narita (NRT), namely, American, ANA (All Nippon Airways), United, Delta and JAL (Japan Airlines), so you have at least one choice for whatever airline alliance you may be a member of. Seamless connections are also possible via west coast cities like LA, San Francisco, or Europe if the 14 hr non-stop flight seems too daunting. Arrival in Tokyo is at Narita airport which is roughly 40 miles outside the city and could take anywhere from approx. 1 to 2hrs–depending on traffic–to get into town. There’s a second airport serving the Tokyo areas that’s much closer, Haneda, but it’s mostly (or at least historically) served by domestic/regional flights. Lately some international service has begun from this airport with US carriers like American (to JFK), Delta to (to LA, Detroit), and JAL (to San Francisco), establishing new routes.

After clearing Customs and Immigration, proceed to the main arrivals hall where you’ll have multiple options to choose from, in terms of transportation into town. Airport Limousine bus service is a decent and popular choice for making the trip into Tokyo. Most often, you can get dropped off right at your hotel if it’s one of the major ones in town. Ask the very friendly attendants at the reservations counter and they’ll be all too happy to assist.

As with any major metropolis, lodging options run the gamut, so finding suitable accommodation shouldn’t be too much of a hassle. Where the challenge may lie (as Japan–and particularly Tokyo–isn’t terribly inexpensive), is finding a place that fits the budget in the neighborhood of choice, especially in high season. You may do well to consult travel aggregators like Hotels.com or Orbitz who often offer desirable packages (air+hotel) at discounts, obviously when booked together. If you happen to need to book separately, I find that Hotels.com tends to have the most competitive rates and once you sign up for their rewards club, you’re off on your way to earning free nights after every 9 booked and consumed stays.

My choice for accommodation was Park Hotel Tokyo, which is in the Shiodome business district, though a super short walk from Ginza and a world of shopping within easy reach. It’s a good choice – see my review here. Amongst the plethora of designer shops in the area (Gucci, Louis and Bvlgary are household names here), do not miss world famed and historic Mitsukoshi department store right at the intersection of the Ginza metro stop. Just make sure the wallet’s fully loaded with Yen and/or you’ve got the American Express on standby; you’re going to need it. While at Mitsukoshi, do not miss the food hall downstairs. The options are pretty varied with Asian and European selections; a great place to grab a quick bite–perhaps some lunch or a snack and beverage–or purchase souvenirs or gifts for loved ones back home.

There’s lots to see and do in this very lively city that I would highly suggest mapping out a comprehensive itinerary prior to plunging into the experience of it all, so as to ensure you get a good sense of it all, especially if you’ve got limited time. I typically recommend taking tours should you not have the can-do adventurous spirit to attempt the explorations all on your own or have a local at your disposal to traverse the area with you. Personally, I enjoy being whisked about in those comfy coach buses while the Guides takes you through the historically significance of this relic, Emperor, Samurai, etc, or other. Of course there are several operators to choose from like Gray Line, grayline.com, and Sunrise Tours, each offer comprehensive Full (including lunch) and half day tours and relatively run about the same cost. I recommend the Full Day as you obviously get to see and do more. Some notable points of interest not to be missed are: Imperial Palace, Meiji Shinto Shrine, Tokyo Tower, Tsukiji Fish Market, Asakusa Shrine, the neighborhoods of Harajuku, Roppongi Hills, Shinjuku and Shibuya (Tokyo’s Times Square equivalent) amongst others.

If time permits, I’d also encourage you to take advantage of some of the historic towns outside Tokyo like Kamakura; it’s quite a treat. While there, make sure you see the 13^th century Great Buddha, Hase-Dera Temple with its beautiful gardens and view of the nearby beach and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Another point of interest may be Mount Fuji which isn’t terribly far outside Tokyo and the aforementioned tour operators have scheduled expeditions to this popular landmark as well.

There’s something on the menu for just about everyone here, even for the pickiest of eaters. Of course recognizable (to Westeners) Japanese fare, like sushi, sashimi and kobe run the gamut and quite tasty but there are other Japanese delicacies that the more adventurous may enjoy as well. If you can’t quite place your order in Japanese and English isn’t an option either, in some cases you can always point to a showcased model and make your selection that way. Gonpachi on the 14th Fl of one of the buildings in Shibuya (additional locales in Fukuoka and Beverly Hills) is a pretty decent choice for a scrumptious meal before a night out. The restaurant also features a sushi bar which tends to be more sedate than the adjoining main restaurant hall which can get a little loud especially during peak dinner hours, so you at least have a choice of either depending on what you’re in the mood for. As an added treat you also get nice views of Shibuya below.

If you’re in the mood to splurge a little, head off to the Conrad Tokyo—in Shiodome–close to Park Hotel mentioned earlier in this write-up. Chef turned celebrity Gordon Ramsay’s taken up residence there – with a couple restaurants, Gordon Ramsay at Conrad Tokyo and Cerise by Gordon Ramsay. The former’s open for dinner while the latter for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Even if dinner plans take you elsewhere, I would encourage you to check out the hotel and adjoining lounge – the views are stunning and digs pretty smart. And, perhaps, at least, grab some breakfast or refreshments while you’re at it.

Indeed Tokyo’s nightlife simmers and partygoers and night owls alike are in for a treat. Whether you’re belting out your favorite tunes in the plethora of Karaoke booths in Roppongi (trust, you haven’t experienced anything quite like it), gyrating your hips to the latest pop tunes at the bar/clubs in Shinjuku, or having a late dinner and cocktails in Shibuya, Tokyo serves it up for just about everyone.

One thing’s for sure on holiday here—you’re bound to be drawn in. Before you know it you’ll be planning you next trip back. I know I can’t wait to make a return journey.

Tags: Airport Limousine, Cerise by Gordon, gonpachi, Gordon Ramsay at Conrad Tokyo, Great Buddha, Harajuku, Hase-Dera Temple, Karaoke, mitsukoshi, Park Hotel Tokyo, Roppongi Hills, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Shinto, Sunrise Tours, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.