Visiting TOKYO in 2024

Things to do, places to eat and drink, places to stay in Tokyo

Some see Tokyo Tower. Others see a tofu restaurant under the red steel and a surreal museum on the Toyosu island behind it. Photo by Louie Martinez on Unsplash

Updated August 2024!

Tokyo’s neon-lit streets and futuristic technology belie a city steeped in ancient traditions and pockets of tranquility. Hidden among the skyscrapers, serene gardens and centuries-old temples offer peaceful retreats from the urban bustle. The city’s culinary scene goes far beyond sushi, for its endless choice of restaurants showcase innovative fusion cuisines and humble alleyway eateries serving soul-warming comfort foods. Tokyo’s charm lies in its ability to seamlessly blend cutting-edge modernity with timeless elegance, offering experiences that range from robot-operated hotels to exquisite tea ceremonies performed with meticulous precision. And while its daytime demeanor exudes formality, that all unwinds at night with a few cold drinks and friendly gatherings.

And my book “Yabai!” will offer you a thrilling dive into Tokyo’s food scene, nightlife, and colorful subcultures. You’ll go beyond the stereotypes to get a glimpse of the city’s hidden worlds, from neon-drenched izakayas to underground parties, capturing the essence of what makes Tokyo truly “yabai” — laughter-filled, surprising, and utterly captivating. This book will double your fun in Tokyo, helping you understand the unfiltered pulse of one of the world’s most…