A short low-budget vacation travelogue to Japan you mustn’t miss!

A short vacation in Japan? That can’t be right… can it? Most Singaporeans would expect a visit to Japan to comprise a few weeks of stay, experiencing all that Japan has to offer – even if it’s your fifth time in the sun-rising land.

Georgia, ShopBack’s ang moh Community Manager, spent four days full of wanderlust and splendour out in the urban streets of Tokyo to breathe in its sights and sounds before heading back to tell her tales. So here are some of the interesting places that our heroine visited in her few short days in Tokyo.

Let’s just put across the fact that Georgia spent about SGD 450+ during her stay – this is exclusive of the flights as well as accommodation, of course. Just like everyone else you’ve ever met that had ever stepped into Japan, she cautioned that Japan stands in the expensive side of things. Thus, there’s a level of thriftiness that accompanied her adventures in Tokyo.

Here comes our short vacation brief:

Meiji Shrine

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So before you head to the famous Harajuku, where teens clamour in their retail troop for the latest fashion styles and newest popculture release, visit the Meiji Shrine. The Meiji Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken who were the first ones to lead in the modern era of Japan. Destroyed during World War Two, the shrine was rebuilt to sustain the emperor’s deified spirits.

Once you’ve had a satisfying view of the landscape and the picturesque architecture of the shrine, it’s time to go where the young ones thrive.

Harajuku

In Harajuku, whether you are into fashion or not, visit the Takeshita Street, where Bugis Street-looking shops line the sides. Our heroine bought her make-up products and new trendy dresses from Harajuku so you should too (I mean really, our Georgia is one fashion-conscious lady – go check out our Instagram profile to find her)!

Shinjuku

Our heroine stayed in Shinjuku and according to her, “Shinjuku has cute Air B&Bs but expect them to be small”. Air B&Bs are perfect replacements for accommodation if hotels and inns are too expensive for a short vacation trip like this one. However, we’d also caution you that Air B&Bs tend to provide less-than-perfect views of the environment and landscape – and since Japan’s known to be a destination that triumphs on amazing views, you’d definitely be missing out on all that Japan can offer.

While you’re in Shinjuku, get comfortable on a walking tour because Shinjuku boasts quite interesting attractions -Zenkokuji Temple is a great place to start. With a market within its grounds, Zenkokuji Temple isn’t your ordinary place of worship. Tori No Ichi Festival takes places in the temple during the month of November too, where the Japanese will head down to pray, eat and drink till late.

That’s one reason to plan your Tokyo trip around November!

Tokyo Skytree

This broadcasting station is also a proud Japanese landmark – small wonder, really. Just take a look at how tall it is! Located at its 350 metres mark are the first observation deck, cafe, restaurant and the Skytree shop. From 350 metres above ground level, you’ll be able to watch as the urban roads trail into the mountainous regions.

If that’s not the altitude that’s high enough for a height junkie like you, perhaps the second observation deck, located 450 metres above ground, will be more of your interest.

Shibuya

Only four days and you’re expected to visit Shinjuku, Harajuku, the Skytree and now even Shibuya? Yes, you’ll actually be able to visit all these places in under four days. Georgia did it, so you should too.

Head to the Shibuya Crossing at night, where the bright city lights light up downtown Tokyo and the mood gets augmented from the commotion of the after-work shoppers. If you’re able to plan your schedules right, you’d be able to spend your afternoon at Japan’s highest urban peak and your night crossing the street. Be sure to take a much-needed tourist photo of the crossing!

Alright, we’d advise you to choose between these two destinations below, depending on whether you’re in love with the Otaku side of the Japanese, or something more traditional, offering you fantastic food.

Tsukiji Fish Market

The Tsujiki Fish Market is shifting to a new site in Toyosu at the end of the year so you’d definitely need to check out its present location, at Tsukiji Shijo Station. It’s strictly business when you’re at the fish market so there are some rules you’d need to follow when you’re visiting, including staying away from places that are off-limits!

Do visit the outer markets of Tsukiji, where you’ll be able to buy some Japanese-made products and also, FRESH SUSHI!

Akihabara

We’ve journeyed through a fish market and now, prepare for a stark contrast – Akihabara.

Akihabara will awaken your inner child imaginations as you skip through anime, manga and cosplay town. Visit the Akihabara Gachapon Hall and be mind-blown at the number of Gacha machines available at a single location!

Another main attraction of Akihabara is its plethora of electronics stalls and stores. Whether they are simply attended by a single assistant or a megastore, you’ll be surprised at the kind of electronics you’ll never ever find in Singapore that’s available in Akihabara!

Rest assured, not only are these places perfect for low-budget vacations, you’ll also absorb the full cultural value of Japan!

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