Food travel adventures in Tokyo

Tokyo is a destination for non-stop eating. And then, when you think you are full, your stomach will inexplicably grumble when your eyes see even more food. Here are 4 best destinations for food lovers to enjoy when in Tokyo:

Best Destinations for Food: Tsukiji Market

The obvious destination for first-timers to Tokyo. Crowds continue to rush to the market before its closure at the end of 2017. If you only visit Tokyo, and you do not mind the crowds of tourists, Tsukiji Market is an iconic wet market to be visited before it is no longer in the city.

When in the market, you will likely stop for a bite of sushi. There are the famous places with constant lines. There are the places that look nice but serve mediocre fish and rice. And there are the hidden gems
Edomae Sushi at the end of the market serves excellent toro in a casual setting. The red awning gives off this lighting effect. Consider ordering one or two pieces to start as a test to see if you enjoy the quality of sushi, and then order more it satisfies

 

Best Destinations for Food: Kitchen Street

Another popular destination for food lovers in Tokyo. Kitchen Street, locally known as Kappabashi Street, is a shopping district between Ueno and Asakusa. Store after store after store sells everything needed by local restaurants, except for fresh foods

Specialty stores sell everything needed, such as dishes, pots, cooking utensils, and these gorgeous plates and bowls. Stores even specialize in plastic food samples often seen in front of restaurants. Photo credit by DavideGorla

 

Best Destinations for Food: Tokyo Station’s Ramen Street

Looking to taste more than one bowl of ramen? Head to Tokyo Station’s Ramen Street, where 8 of the best ramen shops in the city are located within shops of each other in a small area in the bustling Tokyo Station.

Within the influx of tourism to Tokyo, English signs are more present in places like Tokyo Station. You will find large sign boards detailing each of the 8 shops and instructions on how to use the vending machines

 

Best Destinations for Food: Department Stores

My number one recommendation for anyone visiting Japan is the head to the basement floors of the major department stores, like Mitsukoshi Ginza, Daimaru Tokyo Station, Takashimiya, etc. The depachika (the local name for the department store food halls) culture is one of Japan’s most special landmarks to feast your eyes

Mitsukoshi Ginza from the street level in Ginza. From the outside, it may seem like a typical department store. But once you take the escalator down, your stomach will immediately grumble with the most beautiful displays of food
Food halls are typically divided into three areas: savory food, confectionaries, and supermarket. Visit all three areas to slowly take in the culture and their love of food and packaging. Photo credit by istolethetv

 

Addresses & Hours

Tsukiji Market
5-2-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
4am to 1pm

Kitchen Street
Kappabashi Street, Asakusa
9am to 5pm

Tokyo Ramen Street
B1F Yaesu South Exit
First Avenue, Tokyo Station
7am to 10:30pm, hours vary by shop

Mitsukoshi Ginza
4-6-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
10:30am to 8pm
 
 
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