My Trip to Tokyo: Exploring Japan’s ‘City of Light’.
Growing up, I always dreamed of exploring the cultural capital of the world: Tokyo. After countless hours scouring TripAdvisor, I finally decided it was time to take the plunge and book my dream vacation.
Located in the Kantō region of Honshu, Tokyo is Japan’s largest metropolis and the largest urban economy in the world. The city is a powerhouse of technology, fashion, and food culture—and boy, did I experience the best of it all in my two-week stay.
When I arrived at the airport, I knew I was about to embark on an unforgettable journey. The neon lights, the bustling crowds—Tokyo’s energy was ambitious and exciting. After checking into my hotel and getting settled, I started to explore the city.
The must-see sites within Tokyo are endless. I started at the Tokyo Skytree which stands at 2,080 feet, making it the tallest structure in Japan. The view from the observatory tower was breathtaking, and I could see an endless horizon of the city’s magnificent skyline. I then visited the Senso-ji Temple, the oldest and most visited temple in all of Japan. The vivid red gates and ancient pagoda were both stunning and spiritual.
Tokyo cuisine is absolutely delicious. On my first night, I made sure to try some of the city’s famous sushi. I could tell they put so much flavor into each dish and the presentation was incredibly aesthetic. Nothing compared to the freshness and quality of the seafood I had. Additionally, I was able to try other scrumptious local dishes such as noodles, yakitori and tempura.
Aside from the fantastic food, Tokyo is also internationally known for its fashion culture. From the Harajuku district to the Shibuya shopping district, there is something for everyone. I loved the bold fashion statements strutting the streets. One of my favorite looks was a young woman wearing bright green Dr. Martens and a matcha green tracksuit. Although the streetwear scene perhaps speaks more to the younger generation, there’s certainly an appreciation for traditional Kimonos in Tokyo too.
My time spent in Tokyo really impacted me for the best. Everywhere I went and everything I did made for a vacation to never forget. I’m already saving up for my next trip back.
Image Credit: Pexels
