Your First Time in Tokyo

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Tokyo's "Electric City,"  Akihabara simply buzzes, bursting at the seams with the latest tech toys and items to evoke the deepest electro-envy. Although other neighborhoods now rival Akihabara for sheer quantity of electronics stores, this is still the place for hardcore electronics shoppers. A two-story electronic components arcade underneath the JR tracks houses everything from LED lights to antique Walkmans. Walking Akihabara in the evening is the ideal time to get a feel for Japan's otaku (uber-geek) culture: manga cafes, funky/alternative toy stores, smoky pachinko parlors, and video game arcades abound.

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If you see just one temple in Tokyo, make it this one. Settled in Tokyo's historic heart, Asakusa, impressive, colorful Senso-ji temple feels larger than life. The walk up to Senso-ji should be taken at a leisurely pace, perusing the quaint street stalls and nibbling on snacks made fresh in front of you. Plus, Asakusa is the place in Tokyo to stock up on all those traditional trinkets and crafts you'll want to bring home.

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Any traveler's image of Tokyo must include the jumbo-trons and neon signs illuminating the thick crowd flooding Hachiko crossing in Shibuya. But there's more to Shibuya than just crowds; it's full of funky shops, off-beat restaurants, and cozy bars that highlight the neighborhood's slightly alternative feel. Don't forget to snap your requisite photo with Hachiko, the statue of the dog in front of Shibuya station; it's Tokyo's number one meeting spot.

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Tokyo's oldest public park in down-home Ueno is a sprawling, well-kept, and beautiful destination for a pleasant morning stroll, especially during hanami (cherry blossom viewing) season. It's also a logical choice for the culture vulture, since it's home to numerous temples and shrines, as well as the National Museum. If you wish, you can also rent a boat to tour the large pond at the park's south end. Ueno Park's mix of museums, historical attractions, and natural beauty can't be beat in Tokyo.

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Crowded, flashy, sometimes trashy Shinjuku offers a little bit of everything. It feels like an entire self-contained city and, indeed, a trip to Tokyo could be spent exploring Shinjuku alone. From the world's busiest train station to Asia's liveliest gay district, Shinjuku is like Texas: everything is just a little bigger. Shinjuku Gyoen (Shinjuku Garden), perhaps Tokyo's most beautiful, is also here in case you've seen enough plastic, neon, and portable gadgets for one day.

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Tsukiji Central Fish Market – Tokyo's lively, chaotic peddling paradise for everything aquatic and edible – is a Japanese icon, and a haven for fish foodies. Come here to buy a $20,000 tuna... or just look. Scheduled to be moved to a new location in 2014-2015, Tsukiji is not to be missed. The fish auctions (the real sight to be seen) start around 5am, and come to an end before 8am, so hitting Tsukiji at the crack of dawn – perhaps after an all-night binge in nearby Roppongi – is a requirement. Not so inconvenient if you're suffering from jet-lag.

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The Japanese people take their monarchy seriously, and Tokyo's Imperial Palace, home to the royal family, gives a sense of just how venerated they are. On first approaching the Imperial Palace, one might be disappointed by the total restriction of access to the grounds. It's important to remember, however, that this is where the emperor and his family live, and it's enough to be able to visit the immaculate gardens adjacent to the palace, gazing at the ancient, imposing palace walls and partaking of the latest gossip on the country's favorite family. Come to the Imperial Palace on the 23rd of December for the emperor's birthday, or on New Year's Day, and you'll be granted access inside and treated to a speech by the man himself.

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Constructed in 1958, Tokyo Tower soars 333 meters, 13 meters higher than the Eiffel Tower. There are two observatories from which to get panoramic views of Tokyo, and Mount Fuji on a clear day. The Main Observatory is 150 meters high, the Special Observatory, 250 meters high. The tower is lit by 164 floodlights: orange in winter, and incandescent white in summer. Inside the tower, you will also find the Tokyo Tower Wax Museum, the Mysterious Walking Zone and the Trick Art Gallery.

Admission: For the main observation gallery: JPY820 for adults, JPY460 for children. For the special observatory: plus JPY460 and JPY400, respectively.

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Ever heard of the Meiji Restoration? Tokyo's most important shrine (Meiji-jingu; Meiji Shrine) honors the man who opened Tokyo and Japan to western culture. The immaculate shrine provides some "real Japan" flavor, smack dab in the middle of Tokyo, near Shibuya, Omotesando, and Harajuku. It's an extremely popular spot for traditional Japanese wedding ceremonies, so you don't even have to be that lucky to catch a gorgeously decked-out procession making its slow way across the plaza. The spacious shrine grounds are situated right next to Yoyogi Park, Tokyo's largest, which is also a must-visit destination for taking in some much-needed greenery. Rent a bike to catch all the park's beauty and oddball characters in one easy ride.

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This naturally wooded park adjoins the Meiji Jingu Shrine, and until 1996 was the venue for Tokyo's amateur rock and roll bands to show their stuff every Sunday. They have since moved to Omotesando, and Yoyogi Park has become quiet, and ideal for lovers and families who like to enjoy a tranquil Sunday afternoon with each other on the grass and strolling by tranquil ponds filled with koi (Japanese carp). Rental bicycles are available within the grounds during summer for JPY500/hour.

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Located in the famous Tokyo Tsukiji Market Building, Daiwa serves fresh, quality Sushi at reasonable prices. The Zagat Survey rated it the top Sushi bar in Tokyo and is a favorite among locals. The restaurant is small, so expect a line.

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Korean barbecue is probably one of the most popular ways to pig out in Japan. Unfortunately, the price always keeps one from filling up too often. At Gyutetsu, or "Iron Beef," their prices, are truly moderate. The beef is high quality, and the service is notably quick and friendly. Why wait an hour at one of the more popular haunts when you can get the same thing here at better prices and with better service?

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Do not be fooled by the humble exterior upon arrival. Once inside Ninja Akasaka, wide-eyed visitors will be impressed with the creative and traditional interior that resembles an old Japanese village. Courteous ninja-clad restaurant staff await to escort patrons through a journey of secret trap doors and small passages before entering the main area. Gourmet food makes this establishment more than just casual dining, so bring a large appetite and a big wallet. Magic shows are also offered in the evening by friendly ninjas who are willing to entertain onlookers with their ancient secrets. 3-5 minutes from Akasaka Mitsuke Station. - Erin Sanchez

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First glance at this place and you'll be probably mistaken that it's a cyber cafe. You take a ticket from a vending machine and wait for your turn. It's 'Ichiran etiquette' to have your meals quietly and concentrate on food; so no cell phones and children allowed. Cubicles with red lights, meaning that they are occupied, are your dining tables. A blue light means it's available. The choice of ramen is totally yours, spicy, flavored, hard, veg or may be even non-veg. That's ramen customized for you, but have it alone!

Our Local Expert Says:

An unmistakable icon of Tokyo's booming fast food culture, with a decidedly Japanese tilt.

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This fast-food chain is very useful for those hungry moments. Prices are cheap ranging from JPY50 for a bowl of miso soup to JPY400-500 for a main dish. Not only is the service fast and friendly, but the portions are also generous. Try the kenchinkeishoku (miso soup with meat and vegetables) for JPY170. If you are a vegetarian, the side salad or pickle dish with a bowl of rice is equally tasty. Ask for an English menu, or just make your choice from the large picture posters. Bright and cheerful, albeit utilitarian, decor. Complimentary Japanese tea.

Our Local Expert Says:

Another one of Shibuya's line-up of world-class clubs, hosting the biggest DJs coming through Japan

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Womb, a haven for electronic music aficionados is one of the most acclaimed nightclubs in the city. World famous DJs like Dominik Eulberg, Anja Schneider, Richie Hawtin, and Sasha have graced the decks to delight Japan's finest crowds of movers and shakers. Cover charges vary, but this nightclub is always sure to impress.

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A long-established club with a mission to provide quality mainstream jazz at affordable prices, "J" is a favorite with the younger generation of jazz aficionados. It features a program centered on young Japanese musicians, but also stages concerts by the some of the top established stars, especially those that cut their teeth in the club over past years. There is seating for 90, and light refreshments and alcohol are available. It is well worth a visit for anyone who wants to experience the roots of Japanese jazz. Ticket prices: JPY2,000

Our Local Expert Says:

This is truly the best nightclub in Tokyo; even those who don't consider themselves "club people" will find something to like

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One of the biggest and best nightclub inside the city, ageHa is a massive club space coupled with an amazing sound and light system that truly stands apart from its smaller competitors. World-renowned electronic DJs, like Tiesto, Junior Vasquez, and Paul van Dyk, have performed here and solidify ageHa's reputation in the city's club scene. A bit out of the way from the regular scene in the city, a free luxury bus in Shibuya is offered and will shuttle you back and forth throughout the night. Fridays are mainly reserved for Hip Hop while Saturdays are best for Electronic. ID is required and patrons under 20 not allowed.

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A fairly new venue, the Asakusa Engei Hall features some of the best exponents of Japanese traditional popular culture. It is especially known for its rakugo acts, traditional comic story-telling, and comedy teams... Inside the only refreshments available are very light, but alcohol is on the menu. In the near vicinity, however, there are many restaurants offering typical Japanese and others with western-style menus.

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Open mostly only on weekends, Mosaic is always ready to lap up the crowds with its intriguing decor, DJ music, extensive bar options and very appealing female servers. The artistic lamps hanging from the ceiling light up the attractive mezzanine and inside, visitors can expect plush and comfortable furniture. Live events, music shows and gigs are held here too. Check website for updated events and details.

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Robots, gadgets, and cutting-edge technology: the Miraikan National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation has it all in spades. This is the home of the humanoid robot ASIMO, as well as the huge Geo-Cosmos globe depicting near real-time images of the earth. The museum's custom built, super-modern building sits on the island of Odaiba, among Tokyo's most futuristic institutions and constructions. The Miraikan is not to be missed by anybody traveling to Tokyo to see the future.

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Like tea ceremony and kubuki theater, sumo is one of those must-do Japan experiences. Fortunately, Tokyo is home to the country's premier sumo stadium, Ryogoku. Sumo, like its stars, is big in Japan, and there's no better place to get caught up in the frenzy surrounding the country's biggest sports celebrities than the Ryogoku. For those who don't want to shell out a couple hundred dollars for ring-side floor seating, same-day unreserved tickets (around $30) are available every morning of a tournament day. A sumo tournament is an all-day event, but the important matches happen in the afternoon. Holders of unreserved tickets can hang out in the best seats in the house until the afternoon matches. Show up early, around 8:30am, to secure an unreserved ticket.

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This festival enables city dwellers to enjoy the fiery red leaves of autumn on top of Mt. Takao, which is just 50 minutes from Shinjuku by limited express train on the Keio Line. While enjoying the view, you can go shopping—; there are stalls selling native sake (Japanese liquor), forest crafts, traditional food delicacies and souvenirs—. You can also watch the taiko (Japanese style drum beating) contest in Tenbo Square. Admission is free.

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Just a few blocks from the center of Shinjuku, the Golden Gai feels like a well-preserved red light district from 50 years ago. The Japanese-style bars are cramped and can only sit up to four customers at a time. Most clientele are regulars; first-time visitors, if served, may receive not just frosty stares but exorbitant bills. Situated in prime lots and preyed upon by real-estate developers, rumors of its demise have spread for the past 20 years. In 1998 a fire destroyed 16 bars. Walk through the streets while it is still here.

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Explore the scenic shrines and countryside of the Nikko National Park on a day trip from Tokyo. Nikko has been a center of Shinto and Buddhist mountain worship for centuries, and is famous for its shrines, mountain landscapes, lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, wild monkeys and hiking trails.

You'll also visit Nikko, a small city at the entrance to the national park. The highlight here is the world-famous Toshogu Shrine, the mausoleum of the first Tokugawa Shogun. It's a gorgeous complex of colorful structures featuring the superb craftsmanship of Japan's 17th-century artisans. Look out for the famous carving of the hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil monkeys.

You'll then enjoy a delightful drive up the zigzagging Irohazaka driveway up the mountains, negotiating 20 hairpin curves. After a Japanese lunch at a local restaurant, you'll visit beautiful Lake Chuzenji (Chuzenjiko) in Nikko National Park, at the foot of the sacred volcano Mount Nantai. The lake was formed by lava flows from the now-extinct volcano several thousand years ago.

After viewing the 351-foot (100-meter) Kegon Waterfall, one of the three finest falls in Japan, you'll follow the Irohazaka zigzag driveway back down the mountains, following a different route with 28 bends.

Nikko and the area around Lake Chuzenji are well known for their beautiful fall foliage (koyo). The best times to view the rust-colored leaves is usually mid-October for Lake Chuzenji and early to mid-November for central Nikko.