A Foodie's Guide to Sushi and Ramen in Tokyo, Japan

  • Day 1: Tsukiji Fish Market
    30 minutes (6 miles) from Tokyo Station

    Start your culinary journey at the world's largest seafood market by indulging in amazing sushi prepared from the freshest seafood. Be sure to try the tuna, sea urchin, and yellowtail sushi from the stalls. You can also purchase souvenirs such as Japanese knives, cups, and chopsticks.

  • Day 2: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and Omoide Yokocho
    15 minutes (3 miles) from Tsukiji Fish Market

    Take a stroll through the beautiful park after breakfast and then head to Omoide Yokocho alley for lunch. This buzzing alley features dozens of small eateries serving delicious ramen, sushi, and yakitori. Try the shrimp and pork broth ramen at Menya Musashi if you're a noodle lover.

  • Day 3: Meiji Shrine and Harajuku
    10 minutes (2 miles) from Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

    In the morning, visit the serene Meiji Shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Then, head to Harajuku for lunch to try out the best crepes in town at Marion Crepes. Be sure to also visit Takeshita-dori street for various snack options such as rainbow grilled cheese and popcorn chicken.

  • Day 4: Shibuya and Tsuta Ramen
    20 minutes (5 miles) from Harajuku

    In the morning, visit Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest crosswalk in the world. Afterward, head to the Tsuta Ramen restaurant, a Michelin-starred ramen joint serving delicate ramen broths infused with truffle aroma. Be sure to try the Ajitama shoyu ramen, perfect for a meat lover.

  • Day 5: Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple
    30 minutes (8 miles) from Shibuya

    Visit Tokyo's oldest temple, the Senso-ji Temple, which is famous for its bright red gate (Kaminarimon), large lanterns, and shopping street (Nakamise-dori). Indulge in street food such as sweet potato chips and teriyaki skewers. Then, head to Tim Ho Wan for dim sum, which is known for its amazing quality and affordable prices.

  • Day 6: Tokyo Tower and Monjayaki
    30 minutes (7 miles) from Asakusa

    Visit the iconic Tokyo Tower and take in the view while indulging in a tasty lunch at Monja Street, known for its unique dish, Monjayaki. Try the mentaiko (spicy cod roe) flavor at Monjya Kura restaurant. Then, roam around the districts of Roppongi and Omotesando for some luxury shopping and dining.

  • Day 7: Ueno Park and Okonomiyaki
    20 minutes (5 miles) from Tokyo Tower

    Visit Ueno Park in the morning, which is known for its numerous museums and cherry blossom trees. Then, experience okonomiyaki, a savory pancake-like dish made with seafood, meat, and vegetables at Asakusa Okonomiyaki Sometaro. You can sit on tatami mats and make your own pancake on a hot plate. Delicious and unique!

  • Day 8: Ginza and Sushi Saito
    15 minutes (4 miles) from Ueno Park

    Indulge in the best sushi at Sushi Saito, considered one of the best sushi restaurants in the world. You must make a reservation months in advance and be prepared to spend a hefty amount, but trust us, it's worth it. Afterward, take a walk around the Ginza district, known for its high-end fashion stores and department stores.

  • Day 9: Akihabara and Kushikatsu Tanaka
    20 minutes (5 miles) from Ginza

    In the morning, visit the "Electric Town" of Akihabara, which is famous for its electronics shops, anime stores, and maid cafes. Try out the Japanese snack, kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables), at Kushikatsu Tanaka restaurant in Shinjuku. There are 30 different skewers to choose from, and you can dip them in various sauces.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Tsukiji Fish Market (2 hours, $20)
  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (2 hours, $5)
  • Meiji Shrine (1 hour, free)
  • Shibuya Crossing (30 minutes, free)
  • Senso-ji Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Tokyo Tower (2 hours, $20)
  • Ueno Park (2 hours, free)
  • Ginza (2 hours, $50)
  • Akihabara (2 hours, $10)

  • Total Estimated Costs: $130

Transportation

Transportation in Tokyo is very convenient and efficient. The best way to travel around is by trains and subways, which covers most of the city. Tokyo also has an extensive bus system and a few taxis for those who prefer a more comfortable option. The average cost for transportation is about $5-$10 per day.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting Disneyland, Odaiba, and Mount Fuji. If you have less time, consider shortening the visits to some of the places, or skipping some of the less important places.

Airports

Narita International Airport (NRT) is the main airport in Tokyo, located 40 miles east of the city center. Haneda Airport (HND) is another airport located much closer to the city center, about 9 miles south of the city.

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