TOUR TOKYO LIKE A PRO
By Ifeyinwa Ojekwe
Asia is a far but fascinating continent and Ifeyinwa says on a budget, you can get to visit this intriguing continent and some of the best sights ever.
Though I saw several similarities between Tokyo and other major cities like London and New York, but I quickly realized that nowhere in the world is quite like Tokyo. It’s so pristine, well-organized and the people are extremely polite and respectful. If you ever have the chance to visit, here are a few of my recommendations.
TRADITIONAL SIGHTSEEING
Tokyo has a number of shrines, temples, and gardens that are stunning and filled with so much history and best of all free to visit! Most of these sites close by 4pm so make sure you head out early. Here are some of the most popular ones for tourists:
MEIJI JINGU SHRINE: Located in Yoyogi Park, the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken are said to be enshrined here. The Shinto shrine was established in 1920 and is a shrine of national prayer for peace and prosperity. For 500 Yen you can write a prayer on a wooden tablet, and it is hung on the Ema tree. Each day there is a morning ceremony where the priests at the shrine convey the prayers.
SENSOJI TEMPLE: Located in Asakusa, a more traditional part of Japan. This is the oldest temple in Tokyo, built in 628. The Hindu shrine is very popular and attracts over 1.5 million tourists a year. There are streets filled with stalls for souvenirs and food so if temples aren’t really your thing, you can occupy yourself with shopping.
EXPLORE THE CITY
Tokyo has a surprisingly intuitive metro (underground) system. A ride costs only 170 Yen ($1.50) whereas the taxi fare starts from 730 Yen. I’d recommend trying the metro if you’re cost conscious and not afraid to mingle with the locals. Here are some popular areas worth exploring.
HARAJUKU & SHIBUYA: The Harajuku area is busy with young people dressed in a costume-like fashion known as kawaii (meaning cute). It’s the perfect place to witness outrageous fashion and pick up cheap clothes and street desserts. Shibuya has a number of major department stores as well as the infamous ScrambleCrossing, the busiest crossing in Tokyo made of 6 intersections. Partaking in the crossing is a popular task amongst tourists and I had a lot of fun losing myself in the crowd.
ROPPONGI: Is the centre for nightlife in Tokyo. The streets are lined with karaoke bars (a popular pass time in Tokyo), nightclubs and restaurants. I was surprised to find so many Nigerians working as club promoters in this area. If you’re feeling homesick they’re more than happy to speak to you and you just might get a free drink out of it. You can also pick up some African food in this area also.
GINZA: Is the upmarket shopping district, perfect for luxury shopping and impressing your family with fancy souvenirs. There are line-ups from high-class brand stores such as Chanel and Gucci and high street stores like Forever 21. Ginza also houses the only kabuki theatre in the world where non-Japanese speaking people can watch traditional plays from just 1,000 Yen (plus 700 Yen for English translation headsets.)
EAT
Japanese food is amazing – ramen, sushi, tempura, there is food to suit every palate and budget. I’d personally recommend AzabuOidon – they offer a good variety of delicious food and the staff is incredibly friendly. A meal for 3 here including drinks costs below 900 Yen ($90). While you’re there make sure to have some cold sake (Japanese rice wine) and authentic green tea. One thing I learned was that Japanese people are very particular about their eating times. Lunch typically ends at 2pm and the restaurants will close for a break until dinner time at 5pm. Bear that in mind when you’re heading out
LEARN SOME PHRASES
Because most people cannot speak English and the few that can have very limited English vocabularies. However, with a few key phrases (and a lot of sign language) you can usually get by. If you have a smartphone there are a number of Japanese language apps that can help. I found that most locals were more than willing to help and were very happy to hear me try to speak Japanese, so don’t be shy. Always say thank you, arigato with a slight bow, it shows respect and trust.
- All major international airlines offer flights to Tokyo with layovers in Europe or the Middle East.
- Nigerian nationals require a visa that costs N4, 950.00 from the Japanese embassy in Abuja.
- Hotel costs vary greatly, depending on the time of the year you’re planning to visit, and proximity to tourist attractions.
- Try out short-let site com for deals.
All photos are personal pictures from her blog unless otherwise stated.
……….Culled from tw November 2014 Edition.
