There are so many things to do in Tokyo, that you need more than a week to
cover all the popular places to go and things to do. And even then, you
are really rushing it in just one week, because Tokyo has a lot to offer
– sights, sounds, and everything else in between.
Tokyo’s Popular Sights
The city’s most sought-after places usually include Tokyo Tower, the
Imperial Palace Plaza, the Sensoji Temple “Asakusa Kannon” and the
Nakamise-dori, and the Ueno. These places can be covered quite
comfortably in a day. The first stop at Tokyo Tower essentially ‘sets
the scene’, for, from this imposing tower, you can see most of the city
and enjoy a fantastic and panoramic view. The next stop, which is the
Imperial Palace, provides endless photo opportunities as you stroll
around the outer gardens. As for the Sensoji Temple, this is a must-see
for tourists who are interested to delve a bit deeper into Japan’s
Buddhist psyche. The Nakamise-dori is a promenade that leads to the
temple vicinity, whereby you will be entertained by a myriad of food and
souvenir shops lining the promenade. At the end of your first day, walk
around the Ueno, which has a zoo and a park. Unwind amidst natural
surroundings as you prepare for the next day’s excavation.
Traditional Sumo Tournament
After a busy first day, the second day in your week in Tokyo should be a
relaxing one. Spend half a day watching a traditional Sumo tournament at
the Kokugikan (Sumo Amphitheater). Drop by the Sumo Museum to learn
more about this sport. Take the rest of the day off to prepare for the
next three days, where you ought to travel via bullet train to nearby
Nara and Kyoto. No week in Tokyo is complete without visiting the city’s
close cities. In the short trip, you will have the opportunity to tour
Nara’s temples and shrines before proceeding to Kyoto, which is known as
the cradle of Japan’s cultural heritage.
Japan’s Tea Ceremony
The sixth day of your week in Tokyo is best filled with a one-hour relaxing
boat cruise on the beautiful Sumida River. After the cruise, do some
serious shopping at the famous Ginza shopping district or the Nakamise
shopping street. In the afternoon, unwind by participating in a
traditional tea ceremony, where you will not only witness a tradition
that has been practised for thousands of years, but also enjoy some
good, refreshing tea!
Wrap Up Your Trip
Make your last day in Tokyo the most memorable one by taking on a Japanese culinary
adventure. Dedicate the day to sushi and all that this delightful food
entails. Start by visiting Japan’s (and probably the world’s) largest
fish market, and then try making some sushi, before feasting on your
handiwork! That will wrap up a glorious week in Tokyo for you!