I've been wanting to write about this topic for some time, but the right moment hadn't come until I saw this post.
If you're familiar with Keanu Reeves, one of the greatest actors of all time, you'll appreciate this. In an interview, he was asked what his idea of a perfect day is. He replied: "Wake up in the morning, have sex, go to the kitchen and cook something with your partner, go outside for a walk or a bike ride, then buy ingredients for lunch or eat out, come back home, take a nap, have another intimate moment, wake up and prepare dinner, eat, and take a nice shower. There you go."
This indeed sounds like the perfect day to me as well. However, if you're in Tokyo, you should make the most of your time there. One of my favorite places where I feel connected to nature is Kamakura. Although today we will explore only Tokyo, next time I'll share my perfect day in Kamakura.
Let's begin the day with a bicycle ride to the Imperial Palace and through the Chiyoda area, heading towards Hibiya Midtown.
Rent a bike from Kagurazaka or Iidabashi Station. I recommend using the Bike Bike Share, although Luup is also very popular. For Bike Share, download the app and enter your card information for automatic payment. From the app, select the station where the bike is parked and reserve it. When you arrive at the bike port, locate the bike number you reserved and unlock it by following the instructions on your phone, either by generating a QR code or using a PIN.
1->Now that we're all set, let's begin our journey! The first stop from Iidabashi will be Yasukuni Shrine, a site of significant importance dedicated to commemorating Japan's war dead. Established in 1869, the shrine honors those who sacrificed their lives in conflict for their country, playing a vital role in laying the foundation for a peaceful Japan.
2->The second stop will be Chidorigafuchi Park. The entrance to the park is quite elevated, offering a stunning view of a clear, beautiful pond surrounded by lush green trees. During the sakura season, the Chiyoda area can become very crowded, but the expansive pond and abundant greenery create a serene oasis that makes you forget you're in the heart of the city. Slow down to feel the breeze on your face and soak in the scenery. The park remains green throughout the year, offering a refreshing escape. I especially love riding my bike in the winter when the cool air keeps me comfortable. Here's a photo of me enjoying a ride in January.
3-> After all that sweat and effort, it's time to park your bicycle at Hibiya Midtown and enter inside the building.
Head to JEAN FRANCOIS in the Hibiya Food Hall on B1F for a delicious tamago sandwich and pain au chocolat or melon pan. If you feel sleepy, a good cup of coffee can also help. My favorite spot is Hibiya Roastery Coffee, located next to the bakery.
If you're feeling adventurous, go up to the 7th floor for a stunning view of the Imperial Palace and all of Tokyo.
4->After grabbing your breakfast, visit Hibiya Park, a beautiful and spacious area. You can sit in the park and eat your breakfast and enjoy your coffee. Here's a fun fact about this park: Hibiya Park (Japanese: 日比谷公園, Hibiya Kōen) is located in Chiyoda City, Tokyo, Japan. It covers an area of 161,636.66 m² (40 acres) and is situated between the east gardens of the Imperial Palace to the north, the Shinbashi district to the southeast, and the Kasumigaseki government district to the west. As you stroll around, you'll come across the public library of Hibiya Midtown. You can go inside and work from Café Pronto or simply explore the library to see what libraries are like in Japan. Around 10:30 am, the second floor is usually filled with people reading magazines and newspapers.
5-> Head outside and make your way to Ginza, which is a walkable distance of about 10 minutes. Now is time for Lunch! Depending on your budget, but you can try the famous Michelin-starred Ginza Katsukami, renowned for their deep-fried Tonkatsu pork. The lunch menu costs around 3,800 yen, while dinner is priced at 7,700 yen (approximately $50 USD).
If you're looking for more affordable options, you can find a variety of restaurants offering cheaper lunch menus at Tokyu Plaza, a nearby building with many dining choices. A cool place to check is also TsuruTonTan UDON NOODLE.
6-> Don’t miss the famous Uniqlo store in Ginza, where you can even try their coffee too.
This is my perfect day in Tokyo!
Lastly, just step outside and enter any shop that catches your eye. Feel free to explore and don't be afraid to venture inside. Ginza is like the Manhattan of New York, filled with countless shops to discover. While I can't cover all of them—and haven't visited them all myself—the best advice is to get lost, walk around, ask for recommendations, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Tokyo.
