Japan is a country that seamlessly blends old and new, giving travelers an exclusive opportunity to delight in its rich history and cutting-edge modernity. Two cities that include this balance are Tokyo and Kyoto. Tokyo, the bustling capital, is a colorful city full of skyscrapers, neon lights and constant energy. Kyoto, the former imperial capital, is a serene city known for its ancient temples, classic tea houses, and picturesque gardens. Together, those cities will provide a comprehensive diversity review. of Japan’s cultural landscape.
Tokyo is a city made up of neighborhoods, with its own character and charm. Shibuya, for example, is known for its iconic Shibuya Crossing, where travelers can witness the organized chaos of thousands of people crossing the street simultaneously. This domain is also a hub for fashion, youth culture, and entertainment, with numerous shops, cafes, and nightclubs.
A short workout ride away is the Asakusa Historic District, where travelers can step back in time and explore the city’s most classic side. The highlight here is Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, which can be reached via bustling Nakamise by shopping for groceries. street. Here you can buy classic Japanese snacks and souvenirs, making it a must-visit for those interested in Japan’s cultural history.
For those who don’t have time to immerse themselves in Tokyo’s colorful food scene, the Local Foodie Adventure Tour in Sugamo is a fantastic way to sample original Japanese cuisine. Sugamo, nicknamed the “Harajuku of old ladies,” is a captivating community known for its department stores and classic restaurants. The tour guides visitors through local markets and food stalls, offering a taste of everything from street food to classic delicacies.
Another exclusive experience in Tokyo is the teamLab Borderless virtual art exhibition. This immersive virtual art museum blurs the lines between viewer and art, creating an interactive experience in which you are part of the installation. The museum features rooms filled with colorful projections, where the environment changes as you move, offering an engaging experience like no other.
Kayaking in Tokyo offers another advantage of the city.
For a different attitude to the city, take a kayak tour of Tokyo. This activity allows you to paddle along the city’s canals, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The address offers surprising attitudes of the Tokyo skyline and its iconic landmarks. , giving you the opportunity to see the town from an exclusive attitude.
No stopover in Tokyo would be complete without exploring its pop culture: two highlights are Harajuku and Akihabara. In Harajuku you will find the latest fashion trends and extravagant boutiques, while Akihabara is a paradise for anime, manga, and video game enthusiasts.
Groove Shinjuku Hotel, in Tokyo, Japan.
While there’s no shortage of hotels in Tokyo, the newly opened Groove Shinjuku Hotel, located in the center of the bustling Shinjuku district, offers modern amenities and modern rooms. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city, with easy access. to Shinjuku’s bustling grocery shopping and entertainment areas. The hotel’s restaurant, JAM17, offers a delicious dining experience, combining Japanese and Western cuisine with a focus on fresh, sourced ingredients.
While Tokyo dazzles with its modernity, Kyoto seduces with its timeless beauty and cultural heritage. Kyoto, the capital of Japan for more than a thousand years, is the center of classical Japanese culture. Kyoto is home to several temples, shrines, and historical sites, each offering insight into Japan’s rich spiritual and cultural history. One of the most prominent is Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a striking Zen temple covered in gold leaf that is magnificently reflected in the surrounding pond. Another must-see site is Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of red torii gates that form a trail that climbs up the mountain, creating a serene atmosphere that takes your breath away.
Maikos continues in Gion, Kyoto.
The historic Gion district is the center of attention of Kyoto. Known as the center of Kyoto’s geisha culture, Gion is filled with classic machiya wooden houses and narrow streets that transport you back in time. It’s a glorious location to view on foot, especially at night when the streetlights are on, casting a soft glow on the streets.
Staying at Machiya Residence Rikyu-An provides an exclusive opportunity to revel in classic Japanese life. This machiya, or magnificently restored wooden townhouse, is located in the center of Kyoto and offers an original and immersive experience. With tatami-covered rooms, sliding shoji screens, and a tranquil interior garden, Rikyu-An combines the charm of old Kyoto with modern style. comfort.
Food tours are tours in Kyoto.
For food lovers, the Pontocho Night Food Tour is a smart choice. Pontocho is one of the most famous food districts in Kyoto, known for its narrow alleys and classic wooden buildings. The tour will take you to several izakayas and local restaurants, where you can enjoy Kyoto’s famous restaurants. Kaiseki cuisine, yakitori and more. It’s a way to delight in the local food culture while enjoying the colorful atmosphere of Pontocho.
Traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
A popular activity among many tourists in Kyoto is the classic Japanese tea rite. The tea rite at Camellia Teahouse is located in the center of Kyoto and offers an intimate setting where you can participate in a tea rite led by a qualified tea master. Learn about the rituals and techniques of preparing matcha (powdered green tea) and have the opportunity to enjoy the sensitive flavors of tea accompanied by classic Japanese delicacies.
While some prefer to book their trips electronically a la carte (hotels, activities, exercise trips), others prefer to book electronically with a company. One option is InsideJapan Tours, founded through two Japanese philes, Alos angelesstair Donnelly and Simon King. Here’s how it works. The company creates an itinerary based on the traveler’s requests. The itinerary can be detailed and come with hotels, activities, exercise tickets, etc. (with day plans organized from morning to night) or perhaps more structured (with planned hotels and advice made in terms of activities).
By adding activities in the itinerary, the firm can include insider information ranging from video game tours, an insider’s look at the world sumo scene, Tokyo’s manga and anime scene, tours of Kyoto’s gardens, and Gion’s geisha culture. .
One of the main strengths of InsideJapan Tours is its extensive knowledge of the country. Their team of experts includes expats who have lived in Japan for years and local Japanese staff. All Insider Experiences are conducted through English-speaking guides, who are also fluent in Japanese and lately in Japan.
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