Tokyo

Ramen Yamaguchi

Without a doubt, this is our favorite ramen place in Japan (so far)! It is beautiful. It is elegant. It is perfection. When we lived in Tokyo, we did a ramen crawl in the ramen district. We regretted we went there first because it was shockingly super good, and it was only downhill from there. It is a popular spot and often has a queue during rush hours. We recommend going there early.

Machida Shoten

Another favorite ramen place in the Tokyo area. It is Yokohama tonkotsu-shoyu style, a.k.a. the perfect hangover cure or late-night snack. It is a chain, so you may be able to find one convenient for your itinerary.

KINKA

We have celebrated our anniversaries and special occasions with families and friends at this sushi restaurant in Shibuya. The vibe is great, and of course, so is the food. If you are not a big fan of raw fish, try their aburi (seared) sushi.

KIZUNA

Japan loves all-you-can-eat/drink. If you prioritize quantity over quality, all-you-can-eat sushi is a must. Would not recommend doing all-you-can-drink at the same time though, as it will make your stomach full.

Kan-agari

Perfect izakaya to enjoy the Japanese atmosphere. We recommend the course menu with all-you-can-drink Japanese sake. They have a great selection, including ones from my hometown, Yamaguchi. Bookings recommended.

Anbai

Asakusa is a must-see spot in Tokyo, and this Japanese izakaya would be a great addition to your itinerary. They have different menu for lunch and dinner.

Toriguchi

If you want to bring up your yakitori game, this restaurant serves a course menu that will fulfill your evening. Have a glass of sansho-gin & tonic as well. Bookings are essential.

Maruichi Fuji

Authentic unagi (eel) restaurant in Tokyo. Bookings are recommended.

Makoto

Tokyo style okonomiyaki is called Monja. Tsukishima is where you can find a whole street full of monja restaurants. You make your own monja at your table.

North-Eastern Tokyo

• Ueno Ameyoko Shopping Street
• Tokyo National Museum
• Kappabashi Kitchen Street
  If you want to get a Japanese knife or two, this is the place.
• Senso-ji Temple
• Tokyo Skytree
  I’d recommend going there around sunset time so that you can see both daytime Tokyo and nighttime Tokyo. Otherwise, the night view is the best in the world.

South-Eastern Tokyo

• teamLab Planets TOKYO
• Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai
• Tsukishima Monja Street
• Hamarikyu Gardens
• Zojo-ji
• Tokyo Tower
  Same as Tokyo Skytree, go there around sunset time. I personally like Tokyo Tower better than the Skytree.
• teamLab Borderless

Western Tokyo

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
• Meiji Jingu
• Yoyogi Park
• Takeshita Street
• Shibuya Scramble Crossing
  It becomes more vibrant at night.
• Shinjuku Golden Gai
  Lots of small bars are gathered on tiny streets. Bars start to open after 6 pm. Make sure to bring cash.

Outside Tokyo (Day Trip)

• Tokyo Disneyland
• Tokyo Disney Sea
• Mt. Fuji
• Kamakura
• Hakone