[2025 Tokyo Attraction] Travel Guide for Azabujuban Shotengai (Updated Jan)

This was my 10th time in Tokyo, so I’d consider myself a somewhat advanced traveler. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Tokyo always has something new to offer. But to make the most of your trip, here are some practical tips and recommendations to avoid common tourist pitfalls: Must-Do Essentials 1. Download Arlo (roaming app) – Affordable and easy for data usage. You’ll need Google Maps for everything, so make sure you have a reliable connection. 2. Get a Suica card on your phone – Super convenient for all public transportation and even cashless payments at vending machines and convenience stores. 3. Bring cash! – Japan is still a cash-heavy society. ATMs that accept foreign cards aren’t always easy to find, so be prepared. Also, get a coin purse—you’ll need it. 4. Book museums and restaurants in advance – Many places require reservations, and if you don’t plan ahead, you could end up waiting for hours. Avoid the Overhyped Tourist Traps • Ichiran Ramen – Overpriced and not worth the hours-long wait. There are far better ramen spots in the city. • Akihabara – If you’re expecting the old-school Tokyo tech and otaku charm, you’ll be disappointed. It’s now mostly maid cafés and has lost its unique variety. Better Alternatives & Hidden Gems • Azabu-Juban & Azabudai Hills – One of the most luxurious areas in Tokyo right now. If you want to see the city’s high-end side, this is the place. • Nakameguro for coffee – A perfect spot for a laid-back café experience, especially along the river. • Minimise the typical tourist spots – If you must see them, fit them into a single day trip and get them out of the way. Final Thought Even after visiting Tokyo ten times, I find the city always offers something new. But for me, traveling is about who you spend your time with—that’s what makes the trip truly special. #travel #tokyo #japan

#getgoing2025 It is a complex that opened in Azabu in November 2023, and about 150 stores of all genres such as fashion, culture, and food have moved into the commercial floor. Including the central square, the premises are green and spacious, and you can enjoy shopping and dining in an open atmosphere.

While searching for a lunch spot in Azabu-Juban, we passed by a multi-story building and noticed a signboard for an ox tongue specialty restaurant. I wanted to check its ratings first, but couldn't find it on Google Maps. Seeing that it had an award-winning ox tongue on its advertisement, we decided to give it a try. Our group of five ordered five different sets from the menu. We were so grateful for this serendipitous discovery. The ox tongue here, whether grilled or served as a rice bowl, was of exceptional quality, incredibly tender, and juicy. It's a taste that lingers in your memory. Actually, this restaurant has many branches in Japan, but in Tokyo, there's only one in Azabu-Juban. The others are not in major cities. 🕰️Business Hours: 11am-3pm, 5pm-10pm (opens at 10:45am on weekends) 💰Average Cost: 3400 yen