A question I get a lot:
Where do you want to go next?
It’s always hard to answer. But I know I definitely want to get back to Japan. I got to spend 36 hours in Tokyo, and it was not enough!
Scroll down for a taste of my mini visit.
Tokyo was known as Edo, it’s original name when it was a small fishing village, until 1868. Its current name means “eastern capital,” and that it is! It is now the largest metropolitan area in the world by population.
During our 36 hour layover in Tokyo, we walked as far as we possibly could. It was no where near enough time to explore the expanses of one of the most interesting cities I’ve ever visited.
We stayed in a shoebox of a hotel, with a gorgeous view and really great bathroom.
It was honestly perfect.
Even though our time was limited, we accomplished A LOT.
- We took the subway. It was confusing and clean.
- Visited a 4 story game cafe.
- Used a selfie machine.
- Crossed the most insane intersections we’ve ever seen.
- Drank in bars tinier than my closet.
- Saw lots and lot of robots.
- Ate tons of sushi. (but is it ever really enough?)
- Drank hot beer????
- Used food vending machines.
- Saw the palace and gardens.
We also got to see the Nakagin Capsule Tower before it was demolished in 2022. This famous building was constructed in the 70s and unfortunately fell into disrepair. Of the 140 capsules, 23 were salvaged during the demolition (and their asbestos removed). They aren’t for sale, and here’s to hoping they can live a whole new life.
The Giant Ghibli Clock is a larger than life steampunk, cuckoo clock made of copper and steel.
The citizens of Tokyo have a long life expectancy. (women: 87.14 years, men: 81.09 years)
It makes total sense when you see everyone on their feet all day.
the door mat of the game cafe
the selfie machine in the game cafe
The wonderful Golden Gai neighborhood, comprised of over 200 of the tiniest bars you’ve ever seen.
Tokyo is a city of contradictions. Perhaps that’s what makes it so interesting. It’s huge and somehow tiny with all its nooks and crannies. It’s orderly and wonderfully chaotic all in a matter of seconds. It’s new and it’s old, traditional yet contemporary.
The Tokyo Imperial Palace
A wonderful sense of order, even in nature.
the Meganebashi Bridge, which translates to the eyeglass bridge
One of only three remaining remaining structures of Edo Castle.
There were originally eleven.
Every intersection feels huge. There are always a multitude of people crossing.
What’s not to love? The more pedestrians the better.
the land of robots
Takeshita Dori is a colorful and trendy part of town.
Young people flock there to shop and show off their fashion.
There are several subcultures in the Japanese fashion world. Each one vibrant and fascinating.
How wonderful are the tiny walkways? Little businesses line the sides.
And pictured below is the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, aka the largest intersection in the world. Up to 3,000 people cross at one time from all directions. It’s a sight to behold.
Tokyo, I hope to see you soon.
for the love of nike 