Once a small fishing village, Tokyo has blossomed into the world’s largest metropolis. With more Michelin-starred restaurants than anywhere else in the world, Tokyo attracts food enthusiasts from around the globe to wander its maze-like streets and discover hidden sushi gems tucked away in unassuming alleys. Beyond dining, Tokyo offers a variety of experiences, from browsing vintage shops in trendy neighborhoods to getting inspired in the modern art scene found in contemporary galleries scattered across the city. To unpeel all layers of Tokyo, one visit may not suffice; however, this travel guide focuses on the city's art and design spots - showcasing acclaimed luxury hotels and dining spots, the best neighborhoods for vintage shopping, as well as our favorite gardens and contemporary art exhibitions.
Hotels
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HOSHINOYA Tokyo
This award-winning luxury hotel is the number one choice for those who want to have an authentic Japanese stay, but do not want to miss out on extraordinary luxury. Prior to entering the property, guests are kindly asked to remove their shoes, which will be placed in bamboo shoe lockers provided. The ambiance of Hoshinoya Tokyo reminds of a traditional Ryokan, a classic Japanese inn typically found in rural regions of Japan. Each floor houses only six rooms, all centered around a tranquil tea room, where guests can enjoy Japanese tea and snacks. Lastly, don't miss the spa on the top floor, where you'll find the city's only Onsen that sources hot water from beneath the city of Tokyo.
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Aman Tokyo
Occupying the top six floors of the Otemachi Tower, Aman Tokyo creates a luxurious oasis amidst the vibrant urban center of the city. The interior of the suites are inspired by traditional Japanese residences, featuring light wood and washi paper sliding doors that lead to the bathroom. Set on floors 35 to 38, the signature suites, starting at 121 square meters in size, offer incredible views through large floor-to-ceiling windows. The hotel itself curates a variety of exclusive experiences, from personalized guided tours to Tokyo's contemporary art galleries, to intimate tea ceremonies and Japanese pottery classes.
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Janu Tokyo
Janu Tokyo, the latest addition to the Aman Group, was introduced as the new flagship hotel of Janu hotels. With 122 guest rooms, an impressive selection of eight restaurants, and a sprawling 4,000 square meters spa and wellness center, complete with Tokyo's biggest gym, the hotels amenities set new standards for the luxury hotel industry. Rooms and suites are timeless and contemporary, characterized by minimalist furnishings and a soothing beige-brown color palette. Perfectly situated in the new Azabudai Hills neighborhood, Janu Tokyo is just a stone's throw away from the iconic Tokyo Tower, making it the ideal starting point for exploring the city.
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Sushi & Japanese Cuisine
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Tousenkaku Sushi
Cuisine: Chinese
Vegetarian Options
Known for: Contemporary Chinese restaurant with private dining rooms.
Location | Roppongi 4-8-7-B1F, Minato-ku, 106-0032 Tokyo
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Yoshida Sushi
Cuisine: Japanese
Known for: Fresh seafood & sushi and tasteful interior.
Location | 2-5-5 Hatagaya, Shibuya, 151-0072 Tokyo
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Tempura Fukamachi
Cuisine: Tempura | Japanese
Known for: Excellent tempura awarded with one Michelin star.
Location | 2-5-2 Kyobashi, Chuo 104-0031 Tokyo
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Gonpachi
Cuisine: Japanese | Grill
Vegetarian Options
Known for: Scene from Quentin Tarantino’s 2004 film, international atmosphere.
Location | 1-13-11, Nishiazabu, Minato 106-0031 Tokyo
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Sushi Yoshitake
Cuisine: Japanese
Known for: 2 Michelin-starred restaurant with focus on fresh fish, located in Ginza.
Location | 7-8-13 Brown Place 9F, Ginza, Chuo 104-0061 Tokyo
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Nihonryōri Seizan
Cuisine: Japanese
Known for: Seasonal, creative dishes awarded with two Michelin stars.
Location | 2-17-29, Mita, Minato 108-0073 Tokyo
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Ginza Inaba
Cuisine: Japanese
Known for: Small restaurant with beautiful, minimalistic interior serving traditional Japanese cuisine.
Location | 8-12-15 1F, Ginza, Chuo 104-0061 Tokyo
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Ishikawa
Cuisine: Japanese
Known for: 3 Michelin-starred cuisine with focus on seasonal ingredients.
Location | 5-37 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku 162-0825 Tokyo
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Ginza Harutaka
Cuisine: Japanese | Sushi
Known for: Flavorful, fresh fish dishes served on unique tableware, awarded with 3 Michelin stars.
Location | 8-3-1 6F, Ginza, Chuo 104-0061 Tokyo
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Sumibi Kappō Shirosaka
Cuisine: Japanese
Known for: One Michelin-starred Japanese Kappo cuisine and relaxing atmosphere.
Location | 6-3-9, Akasaka, Minato 107-0052 Tokyo
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Yakumo Saryo
Cuisine: Japanese
Known for: Minimalistic restaurant and tea room in the Meguro district amidst a lush garden.
Location | 3-4-7 Yakumo, Meguro 152-0023 Tokyo
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Miyasaka
Cuisine: Japanese
Known for: Elegant one Michelin-starred restaurant with cozy atmosphere and dishes focused on seasonality.
Location | 5-4-30 Minamiaoyama, Minato-ku, 107-0062 Tokyo
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Den
Cuisine: Japanese
Known for: Multiple-times awarded restaurant (including Two Michelin stars, One Green Michelin Star, No. 21 on The World's 50 Best Restaurants 2023 List) serving creative, contemporary Japanese cuisine.
Location | 2-3-18 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, 150-0001 Tokyo
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International Cuisine
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Florilège
Cuisine: French
Vegetarian Options
Known for: Plant-based French restaurant with 16 meter 'table d'hôte'-style dining table. Awarded with two Michelin stars and one Green Michelin star.
Location | 2F, Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza D, 5-10-7 Toranomon, Minato-ku, 105-0001 Tokyo
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Pizza Bar on 38th
Cuisine: Italian
Vegetarian Options, Vegan Options
Known for: Award-winning, freshly-made pizza served at a unique marble top bar with only eight seats, inside Hotel Mandarin Oriental Tokyo.
Location | 2-1-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, Chuo 103-8328 Tokyo
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L'Effervescence
Cuisine: French
Known for: French restaurant with chic atmosphere and impressive three Michelin stars, as well as one Green Michelin star.
Location | 2-26-4, Nishiazabu, Minato 106-0031 Tokyo
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Bars & Coffee
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The Bellwood
Vegetarian Options, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Known for: Well-known cocktail bar serving modern, creative and classic drinks in Shibuya.
Location | 41-31 Udagawacho, Shibuya 150-0042 Tokyo
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Koffee Mameya Kakeru
Vegetarian Options, Vegan Options
Known for: Unique coffee house with futuristic interior, offering a one-of-a-kind coffee tasting experience with their coffee tasting courses.
Location | 2-16-14 Hirano, Koto City 135-0023 Tokyo
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Sky Lounge Stellar Garden
Known for: Sleek bar with stunning views of Tokyo Tower from the 33rd floor of Hotel The Prince Park Tower Tokyo.
Location | 4-8-1, Shibakoen, Minato 105-8563 Tokyo
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Gen Yamamoto
Known for: Tasteful omakase cocktail tasting menu prepared with fresh ingredients, very relaxing atmosphere.
Location | 1−6−4, Azabujuban, Minato 106-0045 Tokyo
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Activities
Art, Design & Architecture
Situated in Tokyo's Minato district amidst the lush surroundings of Roppongi's Midtown Garden, stands 21_21 Design Sight created by architect Tadao Ando and designer Issey Miyake. Renowned for its striking architecture, this museum attracts design lovers from all over the world. Inside, the museum includes three expansive gallery spaces, each hosting a variety of exhibitions that change throughout the year.
Another must-see is teamLab Borderless and teamLab Planets created by the international art collective teamLab. These exhibitions have been held worldwide in cities including New York, Melbourne and London, each showcasing vibrant digital art and interactive displays that transport visitors to a different, virtual world. Tickets are very limited and sell out quickly, so be sure to plan your visit well in advance.
Opened in 2017, the Yayoi Kusama Museum exhibits the renowned artist's works spanning from earlier years to the present day, with tickets requiring advance purchase for 90-minute time slots due to the museum's limited size.
The Mori Art Museum is one of Tokyo's most well-known contemporary art museums, featuring acclaimed artists from Japan and around the world. Only accessible via a high-speed elevator to the 53rd floor, visitors can explore exhibitions across two levels. If you’re not afraid of heights, visit the Tokyo City View, a traditional observation deck on the 52nd floor with stunning views of the cityscape.
Finally, don't forget to add a visit to the Nezu Museum to your itinerary. The property showcases pre-modern Japanese as well as East Asian Art from a private art collection. The more than 7000 art works include ceramic pieces, sculptures as well as seven national treasures. Set amidst a picturesque Japanese Garden, visitors can stroll through its serene paths or enjoy the view from the floor-to-ceiling windows at the adjacent Nezu Café.
Japanese Gardens & Parks
A brief walk from Tokyo's busiest train station, Shinjuku Station, leads you to the peaceful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, which encompasses Japanese, French, and English garden styles. Opened to the public in 1949, it has become a beloved chill-out spot for locals, particularly during spring when hundreds of cherry blossom trees complement the landscape with their pink blooms. To get inside, there is a small fee to pay on-site.
Less crowded and greener than its adjacent Yoyogi Park, Yoyogi Shibafu Park, also known as the 'secret park,' offers a tranquil setting for relaxation. Located south of Yoyogi Station, simply head towards the north entrance of Yoyogi Park and continue along the path on the right to discover this hidden gem. Best of all, entrance is free.
Though primarily open for weddings and events, Happo-en Garden is one of the few hidden gems worth visiting. Happo-en is a picturesque Japanese garden with traditional tea houses, maple trees and koi-filled ponds. Simply ask at the main building to have a look inside – they might allow you to take a peek around.
Shopping
One of our top spots for shopping in Tokyo is Minami-Aoyama. Next to the previously mentioned Nezu Museum, you'll find lifestyle and furniture stores, as well as all of your favorite designer boutiques dotted along the narrow streets of this charming neighborhood. While each store has its own unique exterior, stop by at SunnyHills, celebrated for its pineapple cakes sold within a striking architectural space, making it an unmissable attraction as you stroll by.
Additionally, visit Daikanyama, loved for its more bohemian and artistic ambiance compared to Minami-Aoyama. It's where creatives often spend their free time browsing through artsy concept stores or catching up with friends at minimalist cafes. While you're there, be sure to visit Daikanyama T-Site, also known as the best book store in town. Next to books and vintage magazines, the store offers a wide selection of movies, music, artworks, and more. Upstairs, you'll find the Anjin Lounge, where you can relax in leather chairs and sip on your coffee while reading your newfound favorite book.
Two more neighborhoods you shouldn't miss are Tomigaya, loved for its laid-back atmosphere and unique local shops, and Shimokitazawa, known for its large variety of artsy vintage stores.
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