A day in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

Night - Temple gate

Warmth from the snack spreads through my hand as light falls on the gate. I pass beneath it with the food still hot. Tokyo pairs neon-lit streets with quiet temple gardens, so I come in October or November for the autumn foliage.

Night - Shopping alley

Lantern light hangs over the alley and the sweet treat tastes rich on my tongue. I laugh as I eat and stay under the glow. For a local savoury dish, monjayaki is a runny pan-fried batter unique to Tokyo, cooked on a tabletop iron griddle.

Night - High-end district

Bright cloth shines in the boutique window and I study the cut of each piece. I pause there and look at the glowing clothes. Tokyo is a fashion capital, where Harajuku street trends sit near immaculate corporate tailoring in Marunouchi, so I wear comfortable slip-on footwear.

Night - Shibuya street

Street music reaches me on the pavement and my feet follow the sound. I dance there in the open air. Shibuya Scramble Crossing lies directly outside Shibuya Station and is one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, with hundreds crossing at each green light.

Night - Night market

Under the stall light, the souvenir feels firm in my hand. I examine it at the market stall and take my time. Edomae sushi is classic Tokyo-style seafood pressed over seasoned vinegared rice at counter-seating bars, and June brings the rainy season.

Night - Food stall

Heat and a savoury taste fill my mouth as I close my eyes at the stall. I stay with the skewer and enjoy each bite. Tempura is fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables in a light batter, fried in pure sesame oil and served with grated daikon and tentsuyu.

Night - Temple garden

Quiet settles beside the garden wall, and I hear only my own steps. I follow the path and keep close to the wall. I can walk the outer gardens of the Tokyo Imperial Palace in Chiyoda, on the historic site of Edo Castle, and see the Seimon Ishibashi bridge.