Tokyo’s futuristic cityscapes and storied culture are well-documented, but what awaits guests with different demands?
For art lovers
Azabudai Hills is a modern urban village, built upon a human-centred approach to leading a rich life, with unique low-rise buildings and nature-inspired landscapes designed by the UK-based Heatherwick Studio.
At the heart of the complex is a nature-adorned plaza and event space – this summer hosted a ‘Summer at the Green’ event with a food and drink menu inspired by the ecological surroundings and a Happy Hour seven days a week.
teamLab Borderless, dubbed the ‘Museum Without A Map’, hosts immersive exhibitions from the world’s art collective teamLab. Guests can experience first-hand a world of art without boundaries, with artworks following guests through various rooms and merging together in a 360-degree spectacle.
The Azubadai Hills Gallery honours Japanese culture with a revolving calendar of shows and exhibitions. www.azabudai-hills.com
For wellbeing wanters
Tachikawa is home to a whole host of relaxing locations and wellbeing opportunities.
Showa Kinen Park, commemorating the late Emperor Hirohito, boasts broad flower fields, cycling paths, paddleboats and a Japanese Garden, with the annual Tachikawa Festival Showa Kinen Park Fireworks sending around 5,000 fireworks into the sky.
The Sorano Hotel uniquely embodies an eco-friendly and sustainable approach, spotlighting the importance of local production for local consumption across its dining options and comprehensive spa treatment menu. A 60-metre infinity pool offers an inspiring backdrop for relaxation. www.soranohotel.com
For family fun
Tokyo Bay is one of the city’s most scenic locations, but also one of its most family-friendly.
The Tokyo Cruise Hinode Pier is guests’ gateway to water bus journeys around the city. https://www.suijobus.co.jp/en/
The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation invites curious guests of all ages to experience the technology of tomorrow first-hand, plus the chance to imagine life on board the International Space Station with an immersive exhibit. www.miraikan.jst.go.jp/en/
A unique new addition, Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai, in collaboration with Toyosu Market, recreates an Edo-period neighbourhood and showcases the most iconic local dishes with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients chosen by connoisseur wholesalers. To decompress, the neighbouring Tokyo Toyosu Manyo Club offers relaxing experiences including hot springs and a stone sauna.
For serial shoppers
Just outside the Harajuku station, Takeshita Street offers a 350-metre-long choice of affordable fashion boutiques and iconic Japanese kawaii merchandise.
Tokyu Plaza Harajuku ‘Harakado’ draws on the history of the Harajuku and Jingumae areas of Tokyo. Over 70 unique stores occupy the glass building, which is also home to a rooftop terrace. While shoppers can experience household names including Jo Malone London, a host of authentically Tokyo brands immerse shoppers in the city and its historic yet forward-thinking culture.
For a more high-end shopping experience, Omotesando Street hosts high-end brands and unique boutiques with a guarantee of luxury and quality.
Image Credit: © TCVB
(This article is sponsored by Cross Media Ltd./Tokyo Tourism)
