Tokyo

I have recently returned from a work related trip to Asia, my first stop on the three-week trip was Tokyo. I have to say this was by far the best place I visited and I hope one day I will return. I had read a Rough Guide travel book and some Ciao ops to prepare me for what I expected to be a daunting stay, but I was very pleasantly surprised and very impressed with Japan. When I arrived at Narita airport I got on an airport bus that took me directly to my hotel in Tokyo. I was staying in Shinagawa, which is a district of Tokyo dominated by hotels and restaurants. It was a great base for a stay ... more

Maneki-Neko, Japanese Beckoning Cats, can be found in the shop windows of stores and restaurants in countless streets of Tokyo and any other of Japan’s major cities. If you take a peep into the windows of the noodle shop, eateries of all types and stores, you will come across the Maneki-Neko grinning somewhat impudently at you from the counter and inviting you into to savour the produce of the shop. In business, the Maneki-Neko is believed to bring success because her raised paw beckons in customers. It also welcomes in personal happiness and harmony. A black Beckoning Cat brings health ... more

I love Japanese food. Eating out in Tokyo can be cheap, reasonable or expensive. Here are some tips from me for you to enjoy the city more without being able to speak or read Japanese. Japan is well known as “non English speaking society”, even in the big international city Tokyo. On your arrival you will realise that not everything is sign-posted in English but probably very basic information for transports and tourist spots. As transports in Japan is very reliable and fairly simple to get on, your guidebook or sign language will be sufficient for you. So what kind of information can I give ... more

There is a commonly held misconception that Japan is one of the most expensive countries in the world where everything is available – but at a crippling price. This is only true for anyone hoping to buy property – anyone going on holiday and used to living in England will be very pleasantly surprised. Accommodation will be your biggest expense and there is a good selection of hotels and hostels to suit every taste and budget. Arrange this from the UK for the best deals. The food is brilliant and very cheap. All restaurants do lunchtime specials for about 1000 yen (six pounds) and with a little ... more

The last time I visited Tokyo was way back in 92 - a flying 3 week trip through Japan spending 7 days in the capital. Even though Tokyo is (was) a hugely expensive place to visit you simply must take in the sites at least once in your life. Tokyo is a heavily populated concrete jungle of a place, that doesn't have the openess of a London, the style of Milan or the chic of Paris. What it does have is a kinetic energy that surpasses all three cities and more. The nightlife in particular is a real eye opener. You make think London or New York are pulsing 24/7 but they are mere squibs compared to ... more