Tokyo City Add-On
Japan
Tokyo is a truly otherworldly experience, where dazzling neon lights meet ancient temples and cutting-edge culture. As the world’s largest metropolis, Tokyo’s diverse culture offers every skier an unforgettable stopover.
- Culture
- Family Friendly
- Honeymoons
- Luxury
- Nightlife
- Non-Ski Activities
- Once-in-a-Lifetime
- Off the Beaten Track
- Quick Transfer Time
- Village Charm
Home to the Imperial Family since the 19th century, Tokyo is a city of striking contrasts between tradition and up-and-coming modern culture. One minute you’re exploring ancient temples and peaceful parks, the next you're wandering through futuristic streets, brimming with electronics stores, arcades and otaku (anime/manga) culture.
As Tokyo’s winter climate is relatively mild, it’s perfect to explore in the colder months around your ski holiday. If you're visiting in late March or early April, you may be lucky enough to catch the cherry blossom season - a major highlight of the Japanese calendar. It’s even broadcast on the news! Expect locals congregating in parks with their families to enjoy hanami, or “flower viewings”.
The city is easy to navigate. English signage is common in train stations, and navigation apps make journey planning a breeze. You won’t struggle with a language barrier on your visit. Prepaid travel cards are simple to use and work across trains and buses. Whichever stop you’re heading to as you travel into the city, we recommend getting off one stop early and exploring on foot - it’s the best way to discover hidden spots!
Since most return flights to the UK from Tokyo depart in the morning, travelling from the ski resorts to the airport on the same day can be a challenge. That’s why spending a night or two in Tokyo is a smart choice - not only does it make your journey home easier, but it also gives you the chance to experience one of the world’s most exciting cities.
For first-hand advice on how to make the most of a fleeting visit to this incredible city, read our blog: One Night in Tokyo: Where to Eat, Drink and the Most Thrilling Way to Explore.
"Tokyo may be one of the largest cities in the world, but even a few days is enough to immerse yourself in its rich culture. My top picks for first-timers would be Asakusa, then the Harajuku, Shinjuku, Omotesando and the Shibuya area for a fascinating contrast of old and new Japan."
Attractions
Members of our team have lived in or regularly visited Japan, so we’ve compiled our top recommendations to help push you in the right direction.
Entertainment and culture
- Shinjuku - the major commercial and administrative centre of Tokyo.
- Tokyo Skytree - the tallest building in the city. On a clear day and you might catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji from the observation tower.
- TeamLab Planets and Borderless - immersive, interactive art spaces that are as mind-bending as they are beautiful.
- Mario Kart Street Racing - only in Tokyo! Zoom past landmarks dressed in costume behind the wheel of a go-kart.
- Tokyo Tower - this Eiffel Tower replica offers stunning city views, and its striking red-and-white structure makes for a great photo.
- Akihabara - the electronics district of Tokyo and centre of Otaku (anime, cartoon) culture.
Tradition
- Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple - the old entertainment district of the city, home to Tokyo’s oldest, most iconic Buddhist temple (crowd-free and lit up at night).
- Imperial Palace - the palace and its gardens offer a peaceful escape in the heart of the city, a short walk from Tokyo Station.
Shopping
- Designer and big brands - Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s main shopping, dining and entertainment districts - and where you'll encounter the Shibuya Crossing. North of here, Omotesando Street is the place to go for big-name designers and familiar high street brands.
- Ski gear - visit Yasukuni Dori Avenue, near Jimbocho Station, to explore a variety of ski shops offering winter gear, skis and snowboards.
- Vintage - Shimokitazawa is a hip, laid-back district, packed with vintage clothing shops, record stores, and cool little bars and cafes.
- Boutiques - in the Jingumae district within Shibuya, you’ll find cutting-edge boutiques and trendy vintage shops. Alternatively, Ginza (Chūō District), a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station, offers luxury shopping, fine dining and elegant hotels.
Nature
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden - one of Tokyo's most stunning and peaceful green spaces.
- Yoyogi Park and Meiji Jingu Shrine - wander peaceful tree-lined paths and visit Meiji Jingu, a grand Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji.
Food and drink
- Local food - visit a traditional izakaya with floor seating and a lively atmosphere, or explore Tokyo’s backstreets for hidden ramen bars.
- Golden Gai - a nightlife district in Shinjuku with around 200 unique taverns. Each has an authentic, snug vibe that often seats a handful of people.
- Fast food - Yoshinoya is a popular fast food restaurant where you can order via an iPad to avoid any language barrier.
Extending your stay?
If you’re planning on staying in Tokyo for more than a couple of days, we recommend:
- Tokyo Disneyland for a special, fun-packed day trip.
- Public onsen - relax in the natural waters of this rejuvenating tradition. Tattoo-friendly options are available.
- Live sumo wrestling at Ryōgoku Kokugikan, an indoor stadium dedicated to Japan’s national sport.
Our prices
Every holiday is tailor-made, just for you.
To give you the most choice and best value, we create every holiday from scratch. This means that the quotation you receive is unique, based on your preferred departure dates, group size and holiday preferences.
We save you time and get the most for your money.
We sift through the prices and promotions for every airline, hotel and resort, exploring all options. We don’t publish all our prices online. Instead, we give personal quotations within 1-2 days of receiving your request.
