Explore Tokyo

The best time to visit Tokyo depends on your preferences, but generally, the most pleasant seasons are:

🌸 Spring (March – May)

• Best for: Cherry blossoms (sakura) 🌸, mild weather
• Highlights: Late March to early April is peak cherry blossom season, with stunning views in parks like Ueno, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Chidorigafuchi.
• Weather: 10°C – 20°C (50°F – 68°F), comfortable and dry.

🍁 Autumn (September – November)

• Best for: Fall foliage 🍂, fewer crowds
• Highlights: Beautiful red and yellow leaves in gardens like Rikugien and Meiji Shrine. November has clear skies and cool temperatures.
• Weather: 12°C – 22°C (54°F – 72°F), crisp and refreshing.

☀️ Summer (June – August)

• Best for: Festivals 🎆, nightlife
• Downsides: Hot (30°C+ / 86°F+), humid, and rainy in June (tsuyu season).
• Highlights: Sumida River Fireworks, outdoor summer events.

❄️ Winter (December – February)

• Best for: Fewer tourists, illuminations ✨, shopping
• Downsides: Cold but rarely snowy (5°C – 12°C / 41°F – 54°F).
• Highlights: Christmas markets, New Year celebrations, Tokyo’s dazzling winter lights.

🔹 Best Overall: Late March – April (cherry blossoms) or October – November (fall colors) for comfortable weather and scenic beauty.

✈️ How to Get to Tokyo

1. By Air (Best for International Travelers)

Tokyo has two major international airports:
✅ Narita International Airport (NRT) – Handles most long-haul international flights. Located about 60 km (37 mi) from central Tokyo.
✅ Haneda Airport (HND) – Closer to the city (15 km / 9 mi), handles both domestic and international flights.

🛫 Flights to Tokyo

• Direct flights are available from major cities worldwide, including New York, London, Los Angeles, Sydney, Singapore, and more.
• Major airlines flying to Tokyo: Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA), American Airlines, Delta, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and British Airways.

2. From the Airport to Tokyo City Center

🚅 From Narita Airport (NRT)

• Narita Express (N'EX): 1 hour to Tokyo Station (¥3,000)
• Keisei Skyliner: 40 min to Ueno (¥2,500)
• Limousine Bus: 60–90 min (¥3,000)

🚆 From Haneda Airport (HND)

• Tokyo Monorail: 15 min to Hamamatsucho (¥500)
• Keikyu Line: 15 min to Shinagawa (¥300)
• Limousine Bus: 30–60 min (¥1,000–¥2,000)

3. By Train (If You’re in Japan)

🚄 Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

• If you're coming from Osaka, Kyoto, or Nagoya, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Tokyo Station. (~2.5 hours from Osaka, ~2 hours from Kyoto)
• From northern Japan (Sendai, Sapporo), use the Tohoku or Hokkaido Shinkansen.

4. By Ferry (Limited Routes)

• Some ferries connect Tokyo with Hokkaido and the Izu Islands, but they are slower and less convenient than flights or trains.

Top Attractions in Tokyo 🇯🇵

🏯 Historic & Cultural Landmarks

1. Sensō-ji Temple (Asakusa) 🏮 – Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, with Nakamise Shopping Street nearby.
2. Meiji Shrine (Shibuya) ⛩️ – A peaceful Shinto shrine surrounded by a lush forest.
3. Imperial Palace & East Gardens 🌿 – The home of Japan’s Emperor, with beautiful gardens and historic ruins.
4. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden 🌸 – A stunning park, especially during cherry blossom season.
5. Nezu Shrine (Bunkyo) 🎋 – A lesser-known but beautiful shrine with torii gates and seasonal flowers.

🏙️ Modern Tokyo & City Views

6. Shibuya Crossing 🚦 – The busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, near Shibuya Sky observation deck.
7. Tokyo Tower 🗼 – An iconic red tower with observation decks and great night views.
8. Tokyo Skytree 🌆 – The tallest structure in Japan with breathtaking views.
9. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower 🏙️ – Features an observation deck, art museums, and nightlife.
10. Odaiba 🌉 – A futuristic waterfront area with shopping malls, TeamLab Borderless, and a replica Statue of Liberty.

🎌 Unique & Pop Culture Attractions

11. Akihabara 🎮 – The mecca for anime, gaming, and electronics lovers.
12. Harajuku & Takeshita Street 👗 – Famous for quirky fashion, crepes, and youth culture.
13. Ghibli Museum (Mitaka) 🎨 – A must-visit for Studio Ghibli fans (reservation required).
14. Shinjuku Golden Gai 🍻 – A nostalgic nightlife district with tiny bars and izakayas.
15. Pokémon Center Tokyo 🏪 – A paradise for Pokémon fans with exclusive merchandise.

🍣 Food & Shopping Districts

16. Tsukiji Outer Market 🍣 – Try fresh sushi and Japanese street food.
17. Ginza 🛍️ – Tokyo’s luxury shopping district with flagship stores and gourmet dining.
18. Ameya-Yokocho (Ueno) 🏮 – A lively street market selling snacks, clothes, and souvenirs.
19. Nakamise Street (Asakusa) 🎁 – Great for traditional Japanese sweets and souvenirs.
20. Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho (“Piss Alley”) 🍢 – Narrow alleys full of yakitori (grilled skewers) shops.

🎢 Fun Day Trips & Parks

21. Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea 🎢 – World-famous theme parks with unique attractions.
22. Yokohama (Minato Mirai, Cup Noodles Museum) 🚢 – A scenic port city just 30 min from Tokyo.
23. Mt. Takao ⛰️ – A great hiking spot with a stunning view of Tokyo.
24. Kawagoe ("Little Edo") 🏯 – A historic town with Edo-era architecture.
25. Fuji Five Lakes & Chureito Pagoda 🗻 – Amazing views of Mt. Fuji (best in autumn/spring).

Top Activities to Do in Tokyo 🇯🇵

🌸 Cultural & Traditional Experiences

1. Wear a Kimono in Asakusa 👘 – Rent a kimono and explore Sensō-ji Temple for an authentic Japanese experience.
2. Watch a Sumo Match or Morning Practice 🤼 – Visit Ryogoku to see Japan’s national sport live.
3. Join a Traditional Tea Ceremony 🍵 – Experience the art of Japanese tea at places like Happo-en or Meiji Shrine.
4. Explore Samurai & Ninja Culture ⚔️ – Visit the Samurai Museum in Shinjuku or try ninja training.
5. Visit an Onsen (Hot Spring) ♨️ – Relax at Oedo Onsen Monogatari or an authentic bathhouse in Tokyo.

🏙️ Modern & Pop Culture Activities

6. Cross the Famous Shibuya Scramble 🚦 – Experience the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing.
7. Play at an Arcade in Akihabara 🎮 – Try claw machines, retro games, and VR experiences.
8. Visit a Themed Café ☕ – Choose from cat cafes, owl cafes, robot cafes, or even a vampire café!
9. Explore TeamLab Planets Tokyo 🎨 – Walk through interactive digital art exhibits.
10. Sing Karaoke All Night 🎤 – Head to Karaoke Kan in Shinjuku for a private booth experience.

🍣 Food & Drink Adventures

11. Try Sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market 🍣 – Enjoy the freshest sushi and seafood street food.
12. Eat Wagyu Beef or Yakiniku 🥩 – Experience premium Japanese beef at restaurants like Gyukatsu Motomura.
13. Visit an Izakaya (Japanese Pub) 🍻 – Enjoy yakitori (grilled skewers) and drinks in Omoide Yokocho or Golden Gai.
14. Make Your Own Ramen 🍜 – Visit the Cup Noodles Museum in Yokohama to design your own instant noodles.
15. Go on a Food Tour 🍡 – Join a guided tour through local markets or alleyways to discover hidden food gems.

🎢 Fun & Outdoor Adventures

16. Ride a Go-Kart in Tokyo 🚗 – Dress as Mario characters and drive through the streets (license required).
17. Visit Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea 🎠 – A magical experience with unique Japanese attractions.
18. Hike Mt. Takao ⛰️ – A scenic mountain just an hour from Tokyo, great for autumn and cherry blossom views.
19. Cycle Around the Imperial Palace 🚴 – Rent a bike and explore Tokyo’s historical heart.
20. Sail on a Traditional Yakatabune Boat 🚤 – Enjoy dinner with a view of the city skyline.

🛍️ Shopping & Unique Experiences

21. Shop in Harajuku’s Takeshita Street 🛍️ – Find quirky fashion and famous crepes.
22. Visit the Pokémon Center Tokyo 🎮 – A must-visit for Pokémon lovers.
23. Explore Don Quijote (Mega Donki) 🎁 – Buy anything from snacks to souvenirs in this massive discount store.
24. Watch a Kabuki Show 🎭 – Experience classical Japanese theater at Kabukiza in Ginza.
25. Visit a Real-Life Samurai House 🏯 – Explore the Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Museum for a glimpse of old Japan.

Best Accommodation Options in Tokyo 🇯🇵

Tokyo offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, depending on your preferences and budget. Here’s a breakdown of the best places to stay:

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🏙️ Best Areas to Stay in Tokyo

1️⃣ Shinjuku – Best for first-time visitors, nightlife, and convenience 🚆🌃

• Pros: Great transport links, lots of restaurants, vibrant nightlife.
• Cons: Can be crowded and expensive.
• Recommended Hotels:
  • 🏨 Luxury: Park Hyatt Tokyo (🎥 Featured in Lost in Translation)
  • 🏨 Mid-Range: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku (Godzilla-themed hotel 🦖)
  • 🏨 Budget: The Millennials Shinjuku (High-tech capsule hotel)

2️⃣ Shibuya – Best for shopping, youth culture, and trendy cafes 🛍️☕

• Pros: Close to Shibuya Crossing, shopping malls, and Harajuku.
• Cons: Can be noisy and busy.
• Recommended Hotels:
  • 🏨 Luxury: Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu (Modern and stylish)
  • 🏨 Mid-Range: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu (Amazing views of Shibuya Scramble)
  • 🏨 Budget: Mustard Hotel Shibuya (Trendy and affordable)

3️⃣ Asakusa – Best for traditional vibes and budget travelers ⛩️🏯

• Pros: Near Sensō-ji Temple, historic streets, cheaper accommodation.
• Cons: A bit far from nightlife areas.
• Recommended Hotels:
  • 🏨 Luxury: Asakusa View Hotel (Great views of Tokyo Skytree)
  • 🏨 Mid-Range: Richmond Hotel Asakusa (Affordable and comfortable)
  • 🏨 Budget: Khaosan Tokyo Samurai Capsule (Fun capsule hotel with samurai decor)

4️⃣ Ginza – Best for luxury shopping, fine dining, and a quieter stay 🛍️🍣

• Pros: High-end stores, Michelin-starred restaurants, sophisticated atmosphere.
• Cons: More expensive, not much nightlife.
• Recommended Hotels:
  • 🏨 Luxury: The Peninsula Tokyo (5-star luxury)
  • 🏨 Mid-Range: Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier (Stylish and elegant)
  • 🏨 Budget: The Royal Park Canvas Ginza 8 (Affordable for Ginza)

5️⃣ Akihabara – Best for anime, gaming, and tech lovers 🎮📺

• Pros: Near electronic shops, anime stores, and maid cafés.
• Cons: Not much nightlife.
• Recommended Hotels:
  • 🏨 Luxury: NOHGA Hotel Akihabara (Minimalist and stylish)
  • 🏨 Mid-Range: Akihabara Washington Hotel (Near Akihabara Station)
  • 🏨 Budget: 9h nine hours Akihabara (Futuristic capsule hotel)

6️⃣ Tokyo Station/Marunouchi – Best for business travelers and day trips 🚄💼

• Pros: Convenient for Shinkansen (bullet trains), modern skyscrapers.
• Cons: Expensive, not much nightlife.
• Recommended Hotels:
  • 🏨 Luxury: Aman Tokyo (Ultra-luxurious with an amazing spa)
  • 🏨 Mid-Range: The Tokyo Station Hotel (Classic and elegant)
  • 🏨 Budget: Sotetsu Fresa Inn Tokyo Kyobashi (Affordable and clean)

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🏡 Unique & Budget-Friendly Stays

🔹 Capsule Hotels (For Solo Travelers & Budget Seekers)

• Nine Hours Shinjuku-North – Futuristic capsule experience.
• First Cabin Haneda – Airport capsule hotel for late flights.

🔹 Ryokan (Traditional Japanese Inns)

• Hoshinoya Tokyo (Luxury) – A high-end ryokan in the heart of the city.
• Sakura Ryokan (Budget) – Simple tatami-style rooms in Asakusa.

🔹 Airbnb & Guesthouses

• Great for families or long-term stays. Options available in Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa.

Best Food & Restaurants in Tokyo 🇯🇵🍣

Tokyo is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from Michelin-starred dining to street food stalls. Here’s a guide to the top places to eat and food experiences in the city.

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🍣 Sushi & Seafood

1️⃣ Sukiyabashi Jiro (Ginza)

• Cuisine: Sushi
• Highlights: Famous for its Michelin 3-star sushi and featured in the documentary Jiro Dreams of Sushi. Reservations required.
• Price: $$$$
  2️⃣ Sushizanmai (Tsukiji)
• Cuisine: Sushi
• Highlights: A popular 24-hour chain offering fresh, affordable sushi at the famous Tsukiji market.
• Price: $$
  3️⃣ Uogashi Nihon-Ichi (Shibuya)
• Cuisine: Conveyor belt sushi
• Highlights: Fresh sushi served on a rotating conveyor belt. Perfect for a quick and casual meal.
• Price: $$
  4️⃣ Tsukiji Outer Market (Tsukiji)
• Cuisine: Seafood street food
• Highlights: Try uni (sea urchin), oysters, and grilled seafood skewers from the vendors in the market.
• Price: $$

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🍜 Ramen & Noodles

1️⃣ Ichiryu (Shibuya)

• Cuisine: Ramen
• Highlights: Famous for tonkotsu ramen, a rich and creamy pork broth.
• Price: $$
  2️⃣ Afuri (Ebisu)
• Cuisine: Ramen
• Highlights: Known for yuzu ramen, a refreshing citrus-infused broth with tender noodles.
• Price: $$
  3️⃣ Ramen Street (Tokyo Station)
• Cuisine: Ramen
• Highlights: A collection of renowned ramen shops inside Tokyo Station, great for trying different styles.
• Price: $$
  4️⃣ Tonkotsu Ramen Ginza Kagari (Ginza)
• Cuisine: Ramen
• Highlights: Famous for rich tonkotsu broth and chicken-based ramen.
• Price: $$

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🍣 Sushi & Kaiseki (Traditional Fine Dining)

1️⃣ Narisawa (Minato)

• Cuisine: Modern Kaiseki
• Highlights: Michelin 2-star restaurant offering innovative Japanese fine dining, emphasizing seasonal ingredients.
• Price: $$$$
  2️⃣ Kanda (Minato)
• Cuisine: Kaiseki
• Highlights: A Michelin 3-star restaurant specializing in seasonal kaiseki (multi-course) meals.
• Price: $$$$
  3️⃣ Kyubey (Ginza)
• Cuisine: Sushi
• Highlights: A classic, high-end sushi restaurant known for superb attention to detail and fresh fish.
• Price: $$$$

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🍱 Bento & Street Food

1️⃣ Bento Boxes at Tokyo Station (Tokyo Station)

• Cuisine: Bento
• Highlights: Try different regional bento boxes at ekiben (train station bento) stores in Tokyo Station.
• Price: $$
  2️⃣ Taiyaki (Asakusa)
• Cuisine: Street Food
• Highlights: Fish-shaped waffles filled with sweet red bean paste or custard.
• Price: $
  3️⃣ Okonomiyaki (Asakusa)
• Cuisine: Okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake)
• Highlights: Make your own savory pancake at Okonomiyaki shops. It’s fun, interactive, and delicious!
• Price: $$

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🍶 Izakayas & Casual Dining

1️⃣ Omoide Yokocho (Shinjuku)

• Cuisine: Izakaya
• Highlights: Traditional alleyway bars serving yakitori (grilled skewers) and sake. Great for a casual, late-night meal.
• Price: $$
  2️⃣ Shinjuku Golden Gai (Shinjuku)
• Cuisine: Izakaya
• Highlights: Tiny, cozy bars and traditional izakayas with a wide selection of drinks and small plates.
• Price: $$
  3️⃣ Gonpachi (Nishi-Azabu)
• Cuisine: Izakaya
• Highlights: Famous for its izakaya-style dining and decorated with a beautiful, traditional feel (inspiration for Kill Bill).
• Price: $$
  4️⃣ Toriyoshi (Meguro)
• Cuisine: Yakitori
• Highlights: A popular yakitori spot where you can enjoy grilled chicken skewers and sake.
• Price: $$

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🍰 Dessert & Sweet Spots

1️⃣ Ginza’s Pierre Hermé Paris (Ginza)

• Cuisine: French Pastry
• Highlights: Known for luxurious macarons and French pastries.
• Price: $$$
  2️⃣ Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory (Setagaya)
• Cuisine: Pastry
• Highlights: Famous for its Totoro-shaped cream puffs (great for Studio Ghibli fans!).
• Price: $$
  3️⃣ Saryo Tsujiri (Ginza)
• Cuisine: Matcha Desserts
• Highlights: Famous for matcha-flavored desserts like parfaits, cakes, and soft serve.
• Price: $$
  4️⃣ Roppongi’s Dominique Ansel Bakery (Roppongi)
• Cuisine: Pastry
• Highlights: Famous for the Cronut (croissant-doughnut hybrid) and other innovative pastries.
• Price: $$

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🥢 Must-Try Foods in Tokyo

• Sushi 🍣
• Ramen 🍜
• Tempura 🍤
• Udon & Soba 🍲
• Kaiseki 🍽️
• Yakitori 🍗
• Tonkatsu 🐷
• Okonomiyaki 🍳
• Matcha-flavored Sweets 🍵

Exploring Local Culture in Tokyo 🇯🇵

Tokyo is a fascinating mix of traditional and modern influences, where ancient temples sit next to high-tech skyscrapers, and traditional tea ceremonies coexist with futuristic fashion. Here’s a guide to Tokyo's vibrant local culture:

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🛕 Traditional Culture

1️⃣ Temples & Shrines ⛩️
Tokyo has several historic temples and shrines, each with its own unique significance:

• Sensō-ji Temple (Asakusa): The oldest temple in Tokyo, with a beautiful gate and vibrant shopping street leading up to it.
• Meiji Shrine (Harajuku): A peaceful shrine located in a lush forested area in the middle of the bustling city, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
• Zojo-ji Temple (Shiba Park): A Buddhist temple located near Tokyo Tower, offering a glimpse into Tokyo’s past with modern Tokyo’s skyline in the background.

2️⃣ Tea Ceremony 🍵

• Experience the Japanese tea ceremony, a traditional ritual that emphasizes politeness, respect, and mindfulness. Many places like Hamarikyu Gardens offer visitors the opportunity to participate in or observe the ceremony.
• The Urasenke Tokyo Branch and Jingumae Tea House also offer authentic tea ceremonies.

3️⃣ Kimono Wearing 👘

• You can rent a kimono and stroll through historic areas like Asakusa or Ueno Park, or even have a photo shoot in traditional outfits. Many rental shops provide complete kimono experiences, including hair styling and makeup.

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🎎 Festivals & Events

Tokyo has a rich calendar of traditional festivals, many of which celebrate seasonal changes or cultural events:

1️⃣ Sakura Season (March - April)

• Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing): This is one of the most cherished traditions in Japan, where people gather in parks like Shinjuku Gyoen, Ueno Park, or Chidorigafuchi to picnic and enjoy the beauty of blooming cherry blossoms.
• Festivals, food stalls, and cultural performances are also common during this time.

2️⃣ Sumida River Fireworks Festival (July)

• A spectacular fireworks show along the Sumida River, one of the biggest in Tokyo. Traditional yukata (summer kimono) are often worn by spectators, adding to the festive atmosphere.

3️⃣ Tokyo Ramen Show (October)

• A unique event where ramen fans can sample ramen from all over Japan. Experience the Japanese culinary culture and regional variations of ramen!

4️⃣ Tanabata (Star Festival, July 7)

• Based on an ancient Chinese legend, people write wishes on paper strips and hang them on bamboo branches. This is a popular festival across Tokyo.

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🏙️ Modern Culture

1️⃣ Harajuku & Youth Fashion 🧑‍🎤

• Harajuku is Tokyo's fashion capital, known for youth culture, street fashion, and alternative styles. The area around Takeshita Street features quirky boutiques, trendy cafes, and vibrant street fashion, including kawaii (cute) culture and Lolita fashion.
• Omotesando is a more upscale version of Harajuku, with designer stores and chic cafes.

2️⃣ Technology & Innovation 🤖

• Akihabara is the hub for electronics, anime, manga, and gaming culture. You’ll find everything from robot cafes to high-tech gadgets and arcades.
• Explore futuristic buildings like Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown, where technology and art collide in modern architectural marvels.
• TeamLab Borderless (Odaiba): A stunning digital art museum where interactive exhibits blur the line between art and technology.

3️⃣ Pop Culture & Anime 📺

• Tokyo is the heart of Japanese anime and manga culture. Visit stores like Animate Ikebukuro and Mandarake for merchandise, or explore themed cafes like Pokemon Café or Kawaii Monster Café.
• Studio Ghibli Museum (Mitaka): A must-visit for Ghibli fans, offering an immersive experience into the world of Studio Ghibli’s beloved animations.

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🥢 Local Cuisine & Dining Culture

1️⃣ Izakaya Dining 🍶

• Izakayas are casual Japanese pubs where people gather for drinks and a variety of small, affordable dishes. Popular for yakitori (grilled skewers), sashimi, tempura, and sake.
• Famous areas to visit include Omoide Yokocho (Shinjuku), Golden Gai (Shinjuku), and Nonbei Yokocho (Shibuya).

2️⃣ Respect for Ingredients & Presentation 🍱

• Japanese cuisine places heavy emphasis on seasonality, presentation, and the umami taste. Expect beautifully arranged dishes that reflect the changing seasons, such as kaiseki (traditional multi-course meal) or bento boxes.

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👥 Social Etiquette

1️⃣ Politeness & Respect 🙇‍♂️

• Japanese culture emphasizes respect, so you'll see a lot of bowing, especially in formal settings.
• Always remove your shoes before entering a Japanese home or some traditional inns (ryokan).

2️⃣ Quiet & Considerate Behavior 🤫

• Tokyo is a quiet city, so be mindful of your noise level in public spaces, such as trains, buses, and restaurants.
• Public phone calls are often discouraged, and talking on the phone is generally considered rude in public.

3️⃣ Gift Giving 🎁

• Giving small gifts is common in Japan, especially when visiting someone’s home. The presentation of the gift is often as important as the gift itself.

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🌸 Cultural Landmarks to Visit

1️⃣ Tokyo National Museum (Ueno)

• The oldest and largest museum in Japan, offering a deep dive into Japan’s art and history.
  2️⃣ Edo-Tokyo Museum (Ryogoku)
• Learn about Tokyo’s evolution from the Edo period to the modern metropolis it is today.
  3️⃣ Kiyosumi Teien (Kiyosumi Garden)
• A tranquil Japanese garden, offering a traditional experience with ponds, bridges, and serene landscapes.

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