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A stay in Tokyo already feels like being on a movie set. If you want to go all in and spend the day like you’re on the A-list, here’s exactly how to do it with real services you can actually book. 1. Start the Day with Your Own Prince Friend Kick off your celebrity transformation with Prince Friend, Tokyo’s most ridiculous and wonderful VIP fantasy. You get a sharply dressed bodyguard to walk beside you, carry your bags, dramatically open doors, and glance suspiciously at anyone who comes near. Popular indoor spots for this include Ginza Six’s chandelier hall, the glass walkways of Omotesando Hills, and the domed hall of Tokyo Station. Have a friend join you to take pictures. Book here: https://www.princefriend.jp/ 2. Arrive Everywhere in a Luxury Car Stars don’t take the train. With Tokyo Limousine Service, you can pull up to each destination in a chauffeured luxury sedan or van, complete with an English-speaking driver. Website: https://www.tokyolimoservice.com/ For something a little flashier, A Wonderful Day lets you rent a Lamborghini, McLaren, or Ferrari for the day, with bilingual staff to get you on the road quickly. Website: https://giftlife.tokyo/awd/rental Both options make every arrival feel like a red carpet moment. 3. Lunch Somewhere Hidden and Exclusive Skip the crowded spots and go for a members-only sushi counter or hidden French-Japanese restaurant in Ginza. Try Sushi Jiro Roppongi Hills if you want a famous place with a quiet, refined atmosphere. Website: https://www.sushi-jiro.jp/ Or book through Pocket Concierge for access to private, reservation-only dining experiences that feel like they’re off the map entirely. Website: https://pocket-concierge.jp/ 4. Go Shopping Like You Own the Place Step into high-end stores in Ginza or Omotesando where the staff treat you like royalty. Even if you’re just browsing, you can try on designer fashion, inspect luxury watches, or test out limited-edition bags. Have your Prince Friend carry your purchases while you glide to the next boutique. Start at Ginza Six for the biggest selection. Website: https://ginza6.tokyo/ Then head to Omotesando Hills for runway-level style. Website: https://www.omotesandohills.com/ 5. End with Drinks Above the City Wrap your day at a rooftop bar with Tokyo glittering below. The Bar at the Peninsula Tokyo serves classic cocktails with an unbeatable night view. Website: https://www.peninsula.com/en/tokyo/hotel-fine-dining/the-bar Peter : The Bar, also in the Peninsula Hotel, offers a younger, flashier vibe. Website: https://www.peninsula.com/en/tokyo/hotel-fine-dining/peter-the-bar Order something sparkling, take in the skyline, and let the night feel like the closing scene of your own movie.

UNIQLO at Marronnier Gate 1 in Ginza is more than a fashion store. What many people don't realize is that, on the fourth floor, you will find a full kids and babies area. Inside that space is the free "Kids Library". It offers picture books, wooden blocks, puzzles, and small tables where children can relax and play while parents shop. Keep in mind: this is specifically about the Uniqlo at Marronnier Gate (otherwise known as the Uniqlo Global Flagship Store Ginza). There are other Uniqlos in the Ginza area, and they DO NOT have a Kids Library. -Prince Friend was not paid or contacted by any of the establishments featured here. We choose to include these recommendations because we genuinely stand by their quality.- Image: Prince Friend team Why Families Keep Coming Back The Kids Library is bright and cozy. Younger toddlers can sit on the carpeted corner and explore safely. Older kids can use the tables for drawing or doing puzzles. Parents often say it is a great way to keep kids occupied and happy during shopping trips. Practical Parent Features • There is a kids-size restroom right there on the fourth floor. • Elevators and wide aisles make it easy to move strollers around. • The store is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. including weekends. Image: Marronierr Gate Ginza Take a Break at the Café After some time in the Kids Library head down to the café on the first floor . It serves coffee, tea, and light snacks. It makes a nice pit stop before you continue exploring the rest of the store which has men’s, women’s, kids’ fashion and lifestyle goods. If you want to give your child something to nibble on, here’s the best plan: Grab snacks at the basement food court or nearby cafés  in Marronnier Gate 1. Enjoy them in the public seating zones outside the store , like food courts or café seating areas. These are the only spaces where eating is acceptable. Leave the UNIQLO building after your snack  and return for more shopping or play if needed. Why Use Ginza Uniqlo Kids Library • The play area is free and kid friendly and gives parents space to shop without hassle. • It feels safe, clean, and is sometimes watched by staff (alternatively, if you bring a Family Friendly Prince Friend , they would be happy to play while Mom or Dad shops.) • It adds unexpected family value to a major shopping destination in Ginza. Pro Visit Tips Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience. Pair the visit with a walk to the Ginza Six rooftop garden or a stroll along Chuo‑dori for a full family outing. Bring a Family Friendly Prince Friend to accompany Mom or Dad in watching the kids, while the other parent does some shopping

Every Sunday, Toranomon Hills becomes something special. The basement level of the Station Tower, usually a sophisticated food hall for busy professionals and curious foodies, transforms into a welcoming and relaxed space for families. This is the T-MARKETS Family Day, a weekly event that mixes culinary discovery with family-friendly warmth. Image: Prince Friend Team Event Details When:  Every Sunday Time:  11:00 AM to 5:00 PM Where:  T-MARKETS, B2F, Toranomon Hills Station Tower What Makes It Special A Variety of Food for All Ages: With more than 30 food stalls and drink counters, T MARKETS brings together a diverse lineup of Tokyo's best eats. Vendors create special kids’ menus just for Family Day, so children can enjoy tasty meals made with care, while parents indulge in everything from fresh-baked bread to high-end coffee and international dishes. Activities That Keep Kids Happy: Children are welcomed with colorful balloons, fun coloring kits, and easy access to spaces where they can enjoy themselves safely. The atmosphere is laid back and the staff are friendly, making the experience feel easy for both parents and kids. Image: Prince Friend Team A Beautiful Space to Slow Down The indoor garden-style setting of T-MARKETS includes shared seating, greenery, and natural textures. Families can sit together at the PUBLIC TABLE area while each member enjoys something different. It is one of the few places in central Tokyo where you can feel a sense of calm while still being surrounded by good design and excellent food. Tips for a Great Visit Arrive close to 11 AM for the best seating options Try multiple vendors by sharing dishes as a group Let your kids explore the family perks first, such as coloring or balloon giveaways Take your time and enjoy the slower rhythm of a Sunday afternoon Image: Adobe Stock Photos Why It Feels Premium T-MARKETS is designed for people who value detail, taste, and atmosphere. On Family Day, the space becomes softer and more human, offering a version of Tokyo that feels gentle but still exciting. It is not chaotic or overly programmed. Instead, it offers a refined way to enjoy quality time with the people who matter most. A Thoughtful Sunday in the City Toranomon Hills is known for being part of Tokyo’s future-forward design and lifestyle vision. Family Day at T-MARKETS shows another side of that vision. It is not about perfection or performance. It is about presence. Sharing good food. Watching your child smile. Feeling, for a moment, that this is exactly where you are meant to be. If your idea of a good Sunday includes quality food, a peaceful setting, and a little something for everyone, then this is a hidden gem worth discovering.

Tokyo is a city of contrasts: ancient temples nestled beside futuristic skyscrapers, tranquil gardens hidden within bustling neighborhoods. While many visitors flock to its iconic landmarks, the city also offers a wealth of lesser-known experiences with elegance and depth. For those seeking to immerse themselves in Tokyo's refined side, here are four under-the-radar experiences that promise to enchant and inspire. -Prince Friend was not paid or contacted by any of the establishments featured here. We choose to include these recommendations because we genuinely stand by their quality.- 1. Kukuku: A Contemporary Tea Ceremony in Roppongi Tucked away in Roppongi, Kukuku reimagines the traditional Japanese tea ceremony for the modern age. This intimate teahouse offers meticulously crafted wagashi (Japanese confections) paired with select teas from across Japan.  The minimalist setting allows guests to focus on the delicate flavors and the artful presentation, making each visit a meditative experience. It's a serene escape that invites reflection and appreciation of Japan's rich tea culture. Address:  3F, 6-12-1 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0032 Website:   https://omakase.in/en/r/lu929383 2. Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo’s Enchanted Fog Garden In the heart of Tokyo lies an oasis where time seems to pause. Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo’s historic garden, with its ancient pagoda and seasonal blooms, transforms into a dreamscape several times a day as artificial mist envelops the landscape, creating the ethereal “Tokyo Sea of Clouds.”  This phenomenon, inspired by mountain mists, offers a surreal experience, especially when viewed from the garden paths or the hotel’s elegant rooms. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely lunch or an evening stroll, the interplay of light and fog crafts a scene reminiscent of a Japanese painting. Address:  2-10-8 Sekiguchi, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 112-8680 Website:   https://hotel-chinzanso-tokyo.com/garden/ 3. Tofuya Ukai: A Culinary Retreat Beneath Tokyo Tower Nestled at the base of Tokyo Tower, Tofuya Ukai offers a refined dining experience that celebrates the artistry of tofu. Set within a restored 200-year-old sake brewery, the restaurant features private tatami rooms overlooking meticulously landscaped gardens.  The kaiseki-style menu showcases seasonal ingredients, with tofu prepared in various exquisite forms. It's a tranquil escape where tradition and taste harmoniously converge. Wikipedia Address:  4-4-13 Shiba-Koen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011 Website:   https://www.ukai.co.jp/english/shiba/ Wikipedia 4. Kagurazaka: A Stroll Through Tokyo's Hidden Alleyways Kagurazaka, once a geisha district, retains its old-world charm with narrow cobblestone alleys, traditional ryotei restaurants, and quaint shops. Wandering through this neighborhood feels like stepping back in time, offering a unique blend of Japanese and French influences. It's a delightful area to explore on foot, uncovering hidden gems around every corner. Address:  Kagurazaka, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 162-0825 Website:   https://www.gotokyo.org/en/spot/23/index.html Tokyo's allure lies not only in its famous landmarks but also in its hidden corners that offer profound and personal experiences. Whether you're sipping tea in a modern ceremony, savoring refined tofu dishes, or wandering through historical neighborhoods, the city invites you to discover its many layers. Embrace the unexpected, and let Tokyo reveal its sophisticated side to you.

Just a few steps from Shibuya Station, Shibuya Hikarie offers more than shopping and views. Inside this sleek building is one of Tokyo’s best-kept secrets for any lady looking to reset, recharge, or just take a break from the city’s rhythm. They’re called Switch Rooms , and they’re not your typical powder rooms. These spaces are spread across six floors, from the basement to the upper levels. Each one has a different concept, offering not just mirrors and sinks, but full sensory experiences designed around sound, scent, and emotion. You don’t need to be shopping to stop in. -Prince Friend was not paid or contacted by any of the establishments featured here. We choose to include these recommendations because we genuinely stand by their quality.- These are public (although well hidden), beautifully designed rest spaces that feel like a gift to anyone who knows their location. Shibuya Hikarie’s Switch Rooms were built around the idea of emotional contrast. Each one invites you to switch modes, whether that’s from work to play, tension to calm, or screen-time to something more tactile and real. 5F: Switch Lounge: The most exclusive of all the Switch Rooms, this lounge-style space feels more like a private waiting area in a boutique hotel. It’s quiet, spacious, and softly lit, with chairs that invite you to sit down and breathe for a while. This is the best floor to visit if you’re looking to escape the noise for a proper break. It’s also the only room that requires QR code access through the Tokyu Card app. Entry is limited to members, but registration is free and easy. A good spot to pause before a meeting or after a long day of shopping. 3D room view: http://storage.panoplaza.com/publish/2710b1e6-df6d-c8c5-bc67-38a712de18e3/index.html 4F: Accent Stage: This floor is playful and full of personality. The design is meant to wake you up a little, with small artistic touches and layout choices that make you feel like you’ve walked into something unexpected. It’s not loud, but there’s a liveliness here that gives your mood a small nudge. Great if you need to break out of autopilot and feel a shift in energy. 3D room view: http://storage.panoplaza.com/publish/ca03d081-7859-c57e-9e9f-abcfaecc5365/index.html 3F: Style Up Stage: This one has a gallery-like atmosphere. Minimalist but creative, with art-inspired finishes and a clean, polished feel. It’s a space that encourages you to take a second look at yourself — whether that’s touching up your makeup, fixing your hair, or just adjusting your mindset before heading back out. Here, you’ll find something called the Manajet . It’s a gentle air shower system combined with a deodorizing spray that helps remove smoke or pollen from clothing. The kind of room that makes you stand a little taller after you leave. 3D room view: http://storage.panoplaza.com/publish/dad9b26f-ceeb-1c63-f9bd-cd5bb6d07a2b/index.html B1: Beauty Presentation Stage: This floor is all about self-care. The mirrors are large and bright, the counters are clean and easy to use, and the vibe is peaceful. If you need to refresh your look before dinner, fix your eyeliner after the rain, or just take a moment to feel like yourself again, this is your spot. It’s made for beauty routines, both big and small. 3D room view: http://storage.panoplaza.com/publish/02a30746-d103-7443-b964-385bbd5494d2/index.html B2: Switch Living: Welcoming and warm, this floor is perfect for parents, small children, and anyone who needs a little extra space and calm. The layout is friendly and open, with areas that support casual conversation or quiet rest. If you’re shopping with a stroller or just need a soft place to land, this space was made with that in mind. 3D room view: http://storage.panoplaza.com/publish/2d601e84-7fca-0605-4ff5-82de923ee02b/index.html B3: Open Stage: Designed with inclusivity and comfort in mind, this is the softest and gentlest of the floors. The lighting is low and warm. The finishes are subtle and thoughtful. It’s ideal for older visitors, people with sensory sensitivities, or anyone who just wants to be in a kind space. There’s no pressure to do anything here — just to pause and exist for a moment. 3D room view: http://storage.panoplaza.com/publish/4ef460f2-428d-47e3-702d-b417ea341aff/index.html Each Switch Room has its own scent and its own music. They’re not flashy. They’re subtle, intentional, and incredibly comforting. And in a place as busy as Shibuya, finding a moment like that can feel rare. So next time you’re in the area, don’t just rush from store to store. Find a quiet corner in Hikarie, step into a Switch Room, and let Tokyo show you a different kind of luxury. 🔗 More info here (Shibuya Hikarie official site)

For travelers seeking more than sightseeing, the ones who want to feel Tokyo, Akihabara offers a beautifully niche kind of wonder. In this electric neighborhood known for subcultures and second chances, there’s a quiet emotionality tucked behind glass cases. The world of handcrafted figures. Walking through it with the right companion, real or rented, can feel like a scene from a perfectly scripted drama. Here is a curated route through some of Akihabara’s most enchanting and cinematic figure shops. -Prince Friend was not paid or contacted by any of the establishments featured here. We choose to include these recommendations because we genuinely stand by their quality.- 1. TAMASHII NATIONS STORE TOKYO Just outside the Akihabara Station Electric Town Exit. This flagship store is incredibly popular, and one of only three in the world. You can find the others in Shanghai and New York, but this one feels different. The space is sharp and focused. It doesn’t just sell figures. It presents them like an art exhibition. From limited Gundam releases to Dragon Ball displays you can only see here, the energy is real. Even if you don’t know the characters, you’ll feel something when you walk through. Open daily from 10:00 to 20:00 Official site 2. KAIYODO HOBBY LOBBY Also one minute from the station. This spot is tucked away on the fifth floor of Akihabara Radio Kaikan. Kaiyodo is a legend in figure circles. Their work includes hyper-detailed animals, classical dioramas, and even literary illustrations brought to life in 3D. It is part science museum, part artist’s workshop, and absolutely worth the visit. Open weekdays from 12:00 to 20:00 Weekends from 11:00 to 19:00 Visit site 3. KOTOBUKIYA AKIHABARA Image from: Kotobukiya Site Three minutes from the station. This shop has a more open, welcoming vibe. You’ll find characters from anime, games, and movies, along with plush toys and model kits. It is organized, well lit, and popular with international visitors and women collectors. Even if you are not deep into otaku culture, it is easy to enjoy browsing here. Open weekdays from 12:00 to 20:00 Weekends from 11:00 to 19:00 Visit site 4. MULAN AKIBA CENTRAL AND MAIN STORES Three to four minutes from the station. Mulan is a little messy, a little noisy, and a lot of fun. It has two locations in Akihabara, and both are packed with used and discounted figures, games, DVDs, and the occasional rare find. You never know what you’ll stumble across. That unpredictability is part of what makes it feel so alive. Open daily from 10:00 to 21:00 Visit site 5. ANIMATE AKIHABARA Four minutes from the station. This store was completely renovated in 2023 and now takes up two buildings with a total of eight floors. It is the biggest name in anime retail and a must-see for anyone remotely curious about the culture. From manga and drama CDs to event spaces and themed cafés, you could spend half a day here without even trying. Weekdays from 11:00 to 21:00 Weekends from 10:00 to 20:00 Visit site 6. MANDARAKE COMPLEX Five minutes from the station. Mandarake is where collectors go to lose track of time. The outside is black and ominous. The inside is eight full floors of manga, animation cels, retro games, vintage toys, and things you forgot even existed. It feels like a time machine built by someone who never let go of what they loved. Open daily from 12:00 to 20:00 Visit site 7. AKIHABARA GACHAPON HALL Image from: Akihabara Information Seven minutes from the station. Gachapon Hall is full of capsule machines. More than 400 of them. The machines change often, and the mix is incredible. Cute stuff. Strange stuff. Artful miniatures. Sometimes you get lucky and win a free spin. It is simple, tactile, and surprisingly satisfying. Weekdays from 11:00 to 20:00 Sundays and holidays from 11:00 to 19:00 Visit site More than merch. This is emotion in physical form. Akihabara is not just a place to shop. It is a place to remember what it feels like to care about something that makes no practical sense. These stores are full of stories, and the figures on display hold more than detail. They hold emotion. They hold time. If you ever wanted to feel like the lead in your own drama, or like the city is speaking directly to you, this is where to go. Let Tokyo feel like your story. Let it catch you off guard.

Image: Kurasushi Ginza Website Ginza is known for luxury, but tucked between the polished storefronts and department stores are a few sushi spots that break the mold. These aren’t your average conveyor belt restaurants. Each one offers something unexpectedly thoughtful, whether it’s Edo-style flair, regional specialties, or a quiet ritual you didn’t see coming. All three are affordable, easy to enjoy, and full of little surprises that make them worth the detour. Kura Sushi Global Flagship Store, Ginza Image: くら寿司株式会社 This is no ordinary conveyor belt sushi. Kura Sushi’s Ginza location brings Edo-period atmosphere to life through floating lanterns, wooden booths, and projected fireworks inspired by Hiroshige’s ukiyo-e. There are three performance-style food stations where you can order sushi, tempura, or sweet rice dumplings. Chefs prepare everything fresh at the booth, which gives it a theatrical flair. The Ginza-exclusive sushi sets include premium seasonal fish, beautiful plating, and playful menu names. The conveyor belt here is the longest in Kura Sushi history, at over 123 meters. With 242 seats, including lots of private booths, the space feels comfortable and upscale. 📍 7F, Marronnier Gate Ginza 2Hours: Weekdays 11:00 to 23:00, Weekends from 10:20 Reservations recommended via mobile Official English site Direct booking (English) Nemuro Hanamaru at Tokyu Plaza Ginza Image: NemuroHanamaruSushi Site One of the most popular sushi restaurants in the area, often with lines from the moment it opens. The reason? Fresh seafood flown in from Nemuro, a coastal town in eastern Hokkaido. Many of the sushi varieties here are hard to find elsewhere in Tokyo. Inside, the vibe is cheerful and casual. The sushi belt is constantly rotating, with colorful plates priced by design. Options range from classic tuna and salmon to unique finds like double-decker scallops and roasted surf clam with soy sauce. Is it your first time eating conveyor belt sushi? The staff here are helpful, and there are English menu savailable. Grab a plate, pour your own green tea, and enjoy. 📍 10F, Tokyu Plaza Ginza Hours: 11:00 to 23:00 (last order at 22:00) Official English site Toyama Sushi Ginza Image: Toyamasushi Ginza Site This is a hidden gem. A branch of a beloved sushi restaurant from Toyama Prefecture, known for its use of fresh, local seafood from the Sea of Japan. The Ginza location offers an all-you-can-eat course with a 90-minute time limit. Prices are 4,950 yen for men and 4,180 yen for women. It’s located in the basement of the FUNDES Ginza building. The interior is minimalist and traditional. What makes this place special, besides the fish, is the way tea is served. You grind your own genmaicha with a small tea whisk, making the experience feel a little slower and more personal. 📍 B1F, FUNDES Ginza Access: 5 minutes from JR Shimbashi Station or 6 minutes from Ginza Station Hours: Weekdays 11:00 to 16:00, then 17:00 to 21:00 Weekends and holidays 11:00 to 21:00 Official English site

-Prince Friend was not paid or contacted by any of the establishments featured here. We choose to include these recommendations because we genuinely stand by their quality.- Tokyo in the rain isn’t gloomy. It’s slow jazz, soft footsteps on wet pavement, and reflections in every puddle. The kind of weather where umbrellas bloom like flowers and time seems to stretch just a little longer. If you’re not rushing to tourist spots and you're in the mood for something quieter, more beautiful, and a little bit nostalgic, this is your list. Here are four real places in Tokyo where a rainy day becomes part of your elegant story. 1. Tea Ceremony and Wagashi Making in a Yanaka Tea Room In the old, cat-filled backstreets of Yanaka, there’s a private tea salon where you can experience a seasonal tea ceremony in a calm tatami room. The hosts speak English, and they’ll guide you through not just how to drink tea, but how to shape your own wagashi sweets by hand. The air smells like matcha and wood. Outside, the rain taps on the old windows. Inside, it’s warm and quiet. Experience info : Tea Ceremony and Wagashi in Yanaka Location : Near Sendagi Station (Yanaka neighborhood) 2. Art Galleries and Indie Cafes in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Kiyosumi-Shirakawa is where artists and coffee lovers go when they want to avoid the obvious. Start at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, then walk to the smaller independent galleries hidden in residential corners. Finish with a pour-over at Arise Coffee Roasters or The Cream of the Crop Coffee, both housed in old converted buildings. The vibe is minimal, warm, and not overly curated. Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo : MOT Official Site Address : 4-1-1 Miyoshi, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0022 3. Browse Vintage and Art Books in Jimbōchō Jimbōchō isn’t a secret, but it still feels like one. The smell of paper, rain-damp coats, and dusty old manga fills the air. Go without a plan and dip into whatever shop draws you in. Look for Nanyodo Bookstore for photography and art books, or Sanseido for the classics. Upstairs cafés with handwritten menus are waiting for you to open a book and stay awhile. Sanseido Bookstore Jimbōchō : Sanseido Official Site Address : 1-1 Kanda-Jimbōchō, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0051 4. Goldfish Catching at Asakusa Kingyo Yes, this is real. Tucked into the side streets of Asakusa, there’s a shop called Asakusa Kingyo where you can play a traditional Japanese festival game: goldfish scooping. Normally only seen at summer festivals, here you can try it any time of year, rain or shine. The store has a nostalgic retro vibe with walls full of masks, small trinkets, and colorful tanks of lively goldfish. You can even take a goldfish home if you live in Japan. Asakusa Kingyo : Official Site (Japanese) Address : 2-7-13 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032 Hours : 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Let the City Slow Down With You Rain doesn’t ruin Tokyo. It just quiets it down. These places aren’t about rushing from spot to spot. They’re about staying still, taking in the atmosphere, and letting the city hold you for a while. Whether you're traveling with someone special or you're playing the lead role in your own slow film, these rainy-day ideas offer more than shelter. They offer intimacy, beauty, and the kind of day you'll remember later, when the sun comes out again. So let the rain fall. You're in Tokyo.

-Prince Friend was not paid or contacted by any of the establishments featured here. We choose to include these recommendations because we genuinely stand by their quality.- 1. Kagurazaka Ishikawa – Michelin 3-Star Kaiseki Dining Photo: Kagurazaka Ishikawa Tucked away in the charming Kagurazaka district, Kagurazaka Ishikawa offers an intimate kaiseki dining experience that has earned it three Michelin stars . The head chef, Hideki Ishikawa, crafts seasonal multi-course meals that highlight the delicate flavors of Japanese cuisine. The restaurant's serene ambiance and meticulous attention to detail make it a must-visit for high-end gourmet enthusiasts. Photo: Kagurazaka Ishikawa Photo: Kagurazaka Ishikawa ENGLISH WEBSITE: https://omakase.in/en/r/is658812 Menu : Chef's Tasting Course Price : Approximately ¥49,500 per person (tax included) Reservations : Book well in advance (THIS IS ESSENTIAL!) Address : 5-37 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Hours : Dinner service is from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM; closed Sundays and holidays. 2. Sake Market – Unlimited Sake Tasting Experience Photo: Sake Market Shinjuku With a branch in Akihabara and Shinjuku, the establishment known as "Sake Market" offers a unique all-you-can-drink sake tasting experience, which features over 100 varieties from across Japan. You are even allowed to bring your own food, which makes for a relaxed and customizable experience. Photo: Sake Market Shinjuku Instagram ENGLISH WEBSITE: https://sakemarket.tokyo/ Price : ¥3,000 per person for unlimited tasting, and no time limit Food : Bring your own; utensils and condiments provided. Address : Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyoz Hours : Varies depending on location; you will have to check the official website for details. 3. ARiSE Coffee Roasters – Artisan Coffee in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Photo: ARiSE Coffee Roasters X/Twitter In the heart of Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, ARiSE Coffee Roasters is a haven for coffee aficionados. This shop specializes in single-origin beans, roasted in-house, and offers a selection of pastries from the local bakery Kotoripan. The cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make it a perfect spot for a carefree coffee break. Photo: ARiSE Coffee Roasters site WEBSITE (Japanese only): https://arisecoffee.jp/ Drinks : Drip coffee starting at ¥500 Address : 1-13-8 Hirano, Koto-ku, Tokyo Hours : 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed Mondays. 4. Shimokitazawa – Vintage Shopping and Indie Culture Photo: Adobe Stock Photos Shimokitazawa is Tokyo's hub for vintage fashion and indie culture. The neighborhood boasts over 100 vintage shops, and offers a treasure trove of unique clothing and accessories! Notable stores include the New York Joe Exchange (a former bathhouse turned into a vintage shop), and Flamingo, which is known for its curated selection of retro attire. Photo: Prince Friend team Photo: Adobe Stock Photos ENGLISH WEBSITE: https://www.japan.travel/en/story/shimokitazawa-shopping-guide/ Highlights : Used/Vintage clothing shops : Some, like the New York Joe Exchange, even offer a trade-in system for clothing. Bars and Pubs : Features some unique indie bars and pubs, including izakaya. Access : Starts right next to Shimokitazawa Station. 5. Ryogoku Edo Noren – Edo-Era Dining and Culture Under One Roof Photo: Ryogoku Edo Noren website Located within the restored 1929 Ryogoku Station building, Ryogoku Edo Noren offers a nostalgic journey into Tokyo's Edo period. At its heart lies a full-scale sumo ring (which occasionally hosts events and performances), surrounded by a selection of restaurants and shops that serve traditional Japanese cuisine and products. The ambiance captures the essence of old Tokyo, making it a unique spot for both dining and cultural exploration.​ One notable establishment is Chanko Kirishima , operated by a former sumo wrestler. This restaurant specializes in chanko nabe, a hearty stew traditionally consumed by sumo wrestlers. The dish features a rich broth filled with vegetables, meats, and seafood, offering a taste that's both authentic and satisfying.  Chanko Kirishima WEBSITE (only in Japanese):   https://c-kirishima.com/ ​ Address : Address:  1-3-20 Yokoami, Sumida-ku, Tokyo​ Hours:  10:00 AM to 11:00 PM; individual restaurant hours may vary. ​