TREKKING THROUGH
tokyo
Tokyo will overtake your senses with its beauty, cleanliness, and modern sensibilities. Here’s our guide to experiencing one of Asia’s crown jewels. By Isoul Harris
Tokyo is arguably the cleanest (litter is nonexistent, and the cab drivers don white gloves) 3 8
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and one of the safest urban areas on earth (leave your iPad at the coffee shop and you can return three hours later to find it waiting for you).
There are nearly 100,000 restaurants in the metro area, including ubiquitous ramen noodle spots (from cheap fast food versions to gourmet interpretations from top chefs) and more Michelin-starred eateries than any other city in the world. Whatever you desire, Tokyo can satisfy. It’s a city readymade for dreamers, as well as those simply enjoying the creations of those dreaming.
GETTING THERE
American Airlines has a great direct flight from JFK to Haneda International Airport, which is only 20 minutes from downtown Tokyo.
I traveled in their Business Class cabin (which allows access to the airline’s comfortable Admirals Lounge). There is nothing like being able to leave New York on 6:55 p.m. Friday evening— enjoying premium amenities inflight , including lie-flat seats, full
entertainment library—to wake up in Tokyo Saturday at 10:15 p.m. ready to attack the night. After spending Sunday and Monday exploring the city, you can depart Tokyo at 6:50 a.m. Tuesday, and arrive back in New York at 6:40 a.m. on the same day. aa.com
CAKEMIX25/GETTY IMAGES
Pharrell is right. Tokyo is a dream. From the blitzkrieg of neon illuminating its skyline to the enviable style of its citizens, forget never sleeping, it’s a city that never bores. Indeed, because the Japanese refuse to accept no in anything, they surpass in just about everything, including their food, architecture, and indelible style (luxury cordons like Louis Vuitton specifically make products and build stores for the wildly forward Japanese consumer).
www.uptownmagazine.com
12/13/21 2:05 PM
