2024 Japan Trip - Day 1
A new blog post after almost a year of silence. I want a place to dump more thoughts and pictures than Instagram allows for, so here I am.
Places visited
General thoughts
In hindsight, visiting Togoshi Ginza for the first day might have been a good choice. Being my first day, the localities kind of hit. I am still clueless on the myriad of railway operators and only recognized a train being a train. Slightly shocked on ramen prices.
I will now admit I was planning on withdrawing from the trip early during queueing for a ramen shop—the later days of the trip swiftly put this idea to rest.
Togoshi Ginza
I did not notice the banana on the bottle. Dang it!
Rating: ★★☆☆☆
A quiet and local-oriented shopping street—perhaps a bit boring to the foreign traveler
There were a few street food stalls and local shops selling daily necessities. A good place for restocking, but otherwise this is simply a stroll in the streets sprinkled with Japanese homes, which may prove to be boring, or the locals may not appreciate your presence here. Either way, I don’t think this is a very good place for foreigners.
There is simply not much of interest here, unless you come with a clear goal in mind.
Futakotamagawa
The logical operator holy trinity—`not`, `or`, and `and`.
Rating: ★★★☆☆
A nice neighborhood with a relaxing atmosphere, but perhaps hindered by its commute times
This was a neighborhood centered around the RISE shopping mall. The vibe was certainly very chill. The whole place gives off a natural fresh sensation, and the roof garden provides a nice place to do nothing and just stare at the scenery (provided you stay away from the “nature exhibitions”).
Tsutaya Electrics was definitely a highlight. I might even exaggerate to say it is the reason to come. With an integrated Starbucks, it is designed for you to kill off an entire afternoon, or even a whole day here. A variety of electronics were on sale, including TVs, audio devices, handy fans… There’s something for everyone. A bookstore was also here (though not very tourist-friendly) and a second floor (which we didn’t visit).
Located all the way south in Setagaya, the shortest train rides from central Tokyo take about half an hour. However, this neighborhood is nothing big; it might be a waste of time just to go here (unless you’re determined to kill time in Tsutaya Electrics). Perhaps plan to chill here then go to Shibuya at night?
Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower as seen from below.
Rating: ★★★★☆
A popular tourist attraction, lined with refreshments and an inspiring view
The walk to Tokyo Tower takes a slight toll on energy, which might be a concern for those who are weaker.
But fear not, the ground floor of Tokyo Tower is a mall with general stores, and most importantly, a food court and restaurants selling ice cream and stuff. You may recharge before taking in the view.
Cityscape as viewed from Tokyo Tower.
Tokyo Tower is shorter than Tokyo Skytree. This exact comparison gives the Tokyo Tower a unique view on the metropolis—every car, every sign, is visible.
Views can’t really be described in words—go up to see when the weather is clear.
Roppongi
Known for its nightlife, Roppongi doesn't disappoint in terms of the view.
Rating: ★★★★★
Take some pictures here, and enjoy the city
If you like Mong Kok, you will like Roppongi. There are no “shopping streets” here, everything is on the streets, and that contributes so much to the district. Walking along the district really felt a bit like Hong Kong.
Ramen in Iruca Tokyo Roppongi after queueing for about an hour.
Less is more. Minimal toppings, maximum flavor. Truffle added, brings a slight twist. Try for yourself. If you like ramen. Also it’s a distinct soup base.