I may have fallen in love... with Japan. The people, food and culture never ceased to amaze me whilst i was there. I was in Japan for roughly one month and visited three cities, Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. At this moment in time I can't pick a favourite but all i can say is i dearly miss Japan. So in light of my longing for Japan, i have a quick guide to Tokyo for you all!

 Top places to visit 

- Asakusa 

Asakusa is situated on the outside of Tokyo, away from the busy hustle of the city . Home to a more traditional Japan, Asakusa showcases an older version of Japan, with more than 100 stores, selling souvenirs, food and traditional garments . Asakusa also has a temple at the very back of the main area named the Senso-ji, at the temple you're able to get your fortune read and touch the longevity mist. If you're unable to make a trip to Kyoto, Japan's old capital, consider a day trip to Asakusa. 

-Harajuku 

Harajuku is a popular area for youths and youth fashion. Also home to the famous Harajuku crepes, Harajuku's Takeshitadori street is filled with popular teenage fashion. The fashion stores range from lolita, pop culture, goth to anime. If you're looking for inexpensive fashionable clothing, this is your place! Harajuku is also famous for cosplay, or costume play, where people dress up as their favourite characters from popular anime or manga. 

- Shibuya 

Shibuya is fashion capital and has been likened to Times Square in New York due to it's "scramble crossing" . Shibuya is a popular shopping area and holds many brand name stores as well as Japanese and American brands. A highlight would be the 109 buildings, both 109 Mens and 109 Womens contain multiple floors of shops dedicated to that gender. Shibuya also holds popular stores like Loft and Muji and several department stores.

-Akihabara
Akihabara or "electrical town" is your one stop destination for everything electrical and anime related. With stores upon stores selling the latest technology, there are a few quirks to this place. Akihabara is also famous for maid cafes, cafes were girls dresses up as maids and serve your table.

Things to keep in mind 

- Public transport is your best-friend
Public transport is the fastest and most convenient way to get around Tokyo. Using the system may be slightly overwhelming at first, however, once you've figured it out it'll become your best friend.

- Using cash
Cash is the most common form of currency and whilst cards are accepted at department stores, smaller eateries and local stores may not have the technology to accept card. Try to use card sparingly or only  at large department stores.


- Mobile Phones
Although Japan is renowned for it's fast pace technological advancements, not all mobile devices will work in Japan. The easiest thing to do is buy a SIM card which gets you access to mobile data for a certain time period.  Alternatively, a portable wifi hotspot is also popular.

Things to try 

- Food
Japanese cuisine is far more than just ramen and sushi, try some other Japanese foods such as udon, taiyaki, takoyaki or unagi. If you have the chance, take a look at the bottom level of large departments stores, such as Daimaru and Tokyu Hands. You will discover a unique style of grocery shopping. Hundreds of individual stores sell things from fresh sashimi to cheese. Often small Japanese delicacies can be found here!

- Get your fortune read 

At many temples around Tokyo and Japan, you are able to get your fortune read. If the temple offers,  you may be able to read it in english. There are several ways to read your fortune, some include, fortune sticks and automated machines. If you are unlucky and receive a bad fortune, you're advised to tie it to a tree or fence in order to ward away the bad luck. 

- Purikura or sticker photos 

Insanely popular amongst teenage girls, purikura is a massive trend in Japan. To remember your trip to Tokyo, take a few cute photos with your friends. Purikura will make you look like a doll and enhance your natural features. Decorate the photos and take home the final product! 

Hopefully if you're planning a trip to Tokyo soon these tips have helped you. I thoroughly enjoyed visiting Japan and will definitely be back soon.

Love,

May xo 

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