As I mentioned a nondescript while ago, here is my overdue post about my trip to Japan. It's a beautiful country, with a vibrant culture, and a very rich history. One week was not enough to really see the country, but I say that about all places I travel.
I spent 4 days in Tokyo, and 2 days in Kyoto - both were mesmerizing. Tokyo is such a vibrant city that had an energy reminiscent of NYC, but cleaner, more orderly, and full of nicer people. There was so much to do, so much to see! Kyoto certainly was a change of pace. All I could think of the city is how peaceful it was: quiet and quaint.
Here are the highlights of my trip - use it as a city guide should you ever find yourself in the land of the rising sun:
Tokyo
1) Meiji Jingu Shrine - Centered in the middle of Shibuya is a shinto shrine dedicated to Emporer Meiji. Before you enter, there are giant torii that lead you to the temple. Inside the temple there is the Wishing Tree, which has hundreds of prayers lined around.
2) Sensoji Temple - The oldest buddhist temple in Tokyo with three distinct parts: the temple, a five-story pagoda, and an adjacent market. The market was filled with an assortment of merchandise and collectibles and street food.
3) Tsukiji Fish Market - The largest fish market in the country. It supplies approximately 700,000 tons of fish every year. The fish that are shuffled through here are HUGE. A live tuna auction actually occurs at 5am in which the largest tuna are sold to wholesale buyers. It's a very intimidating environment and visitors should be cautious. The staff here is actually working - and they don't care if you're close to getting run over! If you love sushi, you should probably stop nearby to eat some.
4) Shinjuku Garden - This was my favorite park in the city. It was peaceful and calm. Especially because beyond the walls of the park is the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. Come here for a relaxing intermission between sightseeing.
5) Shibuya / Yoyogi Park / Harajuku Girls / Takashita Street- Shibuya is a large neighborhood. Here you will find a ton of restaurants and a ton of shopping. Also...things are open late, very late. If you visit the area near the Harajuku station, here you will find Harajuku girls near the bridge by Yoyogi park and shopping on Takashita street. Near the Shibuya station you can see the Shibuya scramble. Check it out!
6) Shinjuku - Another lively neighborhood. See the internet cafes, the arcade game complexes and shops. Incredibly crowded, but super bright lights at night!
7) Ginza - Near the Tsukiji Fish market, this is the flagship shopping area with GIANT stores. Seriously, the Uniqlo, Hermes, and Burberry are like 7 stories high. It's fun to browse, and if you come from a country with a stronger currency...goods are technically cheaper.
Kyoto
1) Fushimi Inaari Shrine - Probably the most famous shrine in Kyoto. Located on Mount Inaari, thousands of torii line the pathway to the top of the mountain.
2) Eikan Do/ Zenriji - Tucked away in Kyoto, this is one of the most gorgeous and zen places I have ever been.
3) Gion / Geisha - Gion is a district where historically, geisha houses have been located. There are still Geisha houses that reside there; however, as it is their cherished tradition you have to keep an eye out to spot them around sundown as they embark their journey to their clients.
4) Bamboo Grove - Located in the outskirts of the city, the Bamboo grove is exactly how it sounds - a pathway in the center of towering bamboo trees. The pathway leads you to the Arashiyama area, where apparently the Emporers used to stroll when they wanted to get away from the town.
5) Nishiki Food Market - An assortment of pickled vegetables, spices and street foods. A very neat spot to try things you've never had before!
Foods to Try:
1) Udon - Try the fresh udon made at Metsudan
2) Soba - Try the cold noodles at Miyota
3) Kobe Beef Steak - 511 Kobe Beef is my recommendation. This was the best steak I've ever eaten in my ENTIRE LIFE...and I love a good steak
4) Tempura - Over a bed of noodles
5) Sushi - Try sushi near the fish market. Freshest you will get!
6) Ramen - Every large train station has a "ramen street," where you order through a vending machine, get a ticket and sit. My recommendation is Ginza Kagari located in the Ginza neighborhood. This is a tiny shack and be prepared to wait. It was so worth it though.
7) Green Tea Desserts / Tofu - Best places to go are in Kyoto for this as it is more pervasive in their dishes.
Note: The bullet train in Tokyo is incredibly fast and easily transports you from city to city in the coutry. You can purchase a 7-day unlimited pass to ride it. Also, in between Tokyo and Kyoto..you can even see Fuji-San (Mount Fuji). Unfortunately, it was fall and cloudy so my view was obstructed.
Here's my photo diary:
