Splendia’s Hong Kong office and has travelled all over Europe and Asia. We asked her to give us some top travel tips for her home country of Japan and its techno capital, Tokyo.
What makes Japan unique?
Japan’s unique geography and four distinctive
seasons mean that each region is completely different. Every area has its specialty in foods and even the taste of traditional Japanese Sake changes across the country.
When is the best time of year to visit?
Spring is a good time to see the famous Japanese cherry blossoms but autumn has to be the best season, as the leaves change to red, orange and yellow it’s really beautiful.
For first time visitors, apart from Tokyo where should we go?
Tokyo is the more modern side, so now you need to see traditional Japan. Go to Kyoto to experience elaborate historical buildings, traditional crafts and foods like Saba sushi, Yuba, Tofu and Japanese sweets. Quieter areas outside of the city include Kamakura with its temples and big Buddha and rural Hakone with its hot springs.
Moving onto Tokyo specifically, where should we go shopping?
For ladies fashion, go to Shibuya 109 and Ginza Printemps, and for mens, Marui store and the Ginza, Shinjuku and Shibuya areas. Tokyu Hands is for those looking for something different, here you discover fun products you’ve never even seen before!
What’s your favourite area of the city?
Aoyama is a cool, fashionable and cultural spot. With its famous Blue Note Jazz Club, many stylish restaurants, cafes and independent fashion shops, you’ll feel a different vibe just walking in the area.
What is your favourite Tokyo landmark?
The city has a new tower called Tokyo Sky Tree 
(634m). It will open to public in 2012, I’m excited to see the view from there.
How can we get away from the crowds?
Kagurazaka is a nice, quiet area near Shinjuku. One of the biggest Awa dance festivals is held here every summer and you can also visit the shrines of Tokyo Daijingu, Bishamonten and Akagi Jinja. For a sugar fix, try Peko-chan manju cake from Fujiya sweet shop near Lidabashi JR station.
If we only had 24 hours in the city, what should we do?
Once you wake up, go straight to Tsukiji market to enjoy fresh Sushi. Visit Harajuku where you see a lot of youngsters in funky costumes on weekends, then go to the Meiji 
shrine, dedicated to the divine souls of Emperor Meiji and his consort Empress Shoken – you may even see a traditional Japanese wedding here if you’re lucky. Next, walk along Omotesando street to Aoyama. If you have time, go up the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower to see its breathtaking views and famous contemporary art gallery. Finally enjoy a Sashimi dinner on a traditional Yakatabune boat in Tokyo Bay with views of the beautiful rainbow bridge and Tokyo skyscrapers all lit up.
To find out more about Splendia, or to book a Luxury & Character Hotel in Japan, click here.
Maddie
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