Shinjuku Gyoen (Gyo- yen) national garden

Cherry blossoms season in Japan typically begins early March & lasts until May. I went looking for gorgeous views of cherry blossoms in the famous Shinjuku Gyoen national park. There is a nominal entry fee to get in the park – there is no online booking, you have to get these tickets at the location. and it is good for the full day! It was first built as a garden for the imperial family in Japan in 1900s but later converted to a National Park. Gorgeous cherry blossoms makes it a must see on the list!  You can also experience the Japanese tea ceremony in the park.

Fuunji Ramen at Shinjuku

I know what you’re thinking – How did a food place get in here -Because it deserves its own special spot!! OMG! Mouth watering ramen in Shinjuku. Expect long wait time since the place is famous in Shinjuku. You get your Ramen ticket at the kiosk up front & hand it to the staff.  try their dipping noodles – For those who don’t eat red meat like me, there’s good news – The noodle broth is made of chicken – and you can get ramen with no meat  – at least that’s what they told me !!

Pro Tip #1: Fuunji and most restaurants in Japan are a cash only establishment and do not take reservations.

Meiji Jingu Shrine

One of the Shinto shrines in Japan on a forest land. The Shinto shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji & his wife Empress Shoken. The forest is so peaceful & serene. A must-visit place!

Neon lights at Kabukicho (Kabu – Kicho)

Kabukicho is an entertainment district in Shinjuku. Often called the Sleepless town with tons of shops, restaurants & night clubs. It’s colorful neon light street signs are a spectacle. This is post card Tokyo. You do not want to miss this sensory overload.

Pro Tip #2: Don’t forget to check out the 3D cat on the billboard in Shinjuku. It is located next to the Shinjuku train station.

Puppy Café Rio, Shinjuku

Located in the Godzilla head street – Yes you heard right, Godzilla head! On this street – I found a fun place where you can play with cute puppy dogs. It is completely safe and you can feed & pet these dogs too.

Golden Gai, Kabukicho

Golden Gai is popular for its narrow alleyways with really cool bars & taverns. Great place to get Sake. The bartenders here are very friendly to tourists!!

Akihabara

Akihabara is a haven for anime, electronics & video gamers. I went to Super Potato – which is a retro video game store in Akihabara – I loved playing arcade games. The place looked vintage yet futuristic!

Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Shibuya scramble crossing is a busy & popular pedestrian scramble crossing in Shibuya. The crossing stops vehicles in all directions so thousands of pedestrians can cross this road at the same time. Quite an experience – don’t miss this in Tokyo!

Head to an “Izakaya”

Izakaya is a Japanese bar that serves alcohol & snacks – it’s a casual after work dining – sort of like your tapas place. Some Izakayas have a theme and Japan is famous for its secret themed Izakayas. One such special place had a book shelf as a front – took me a while to figure this entrance out.

Pro tip #3: Carry your language translator app everywhere. Although some bars & restaurants have English names on your google search, the place itself will have Japanese signage. You can also ask for help – the locals are friendly.

Mega Don Quijote (Donki)

Mega Don Quijote (Donki for short) is the biggest discount store in Japan. Think Walmart-  but bigger & multi level. I picked up my Shinchan keychain from here. Shinchan is a popular kids animated series! You get everything in Donki, from branded cosmetics to luggage to souvenirs to chopsticks you name it – My fav on this list!!