Tokyo is one of the most visited cities in the world, but it rarely feels predictable. Every district has its own pace. Every street has something going on, even if it looks quiet. From historic shrines to high-speed trains, the city blends tradition with technology in a way that just works.

First-time visitors might feel overwhelmed, but it doesn’t take long to adjust. The train system is efficient. People are helpful. And once you figure out how to order at a ramen machine or spot the best izakaya on a side street, you’re set.

This guide covers the essentials: where to stay, what to eat, and how to explore the city without getting stuck in tourist mode. It’s designed to help you move smoothly, spend smartly, and find your own version of Tokyo. With bunq, you’re ready to go from arrival to checkout with zero friction.

Where to Stay

1. K5

Set in a renovated bank building in Nihonbashi, K5 feels peaceful from the moment you arrive. It’s small, stylish, and comes with its own coffee shop, natural wine bar, and restaurant. A smart choice for travelers who prefer slower mornings and thoughtful design.

2. The Millennials Shibuya

If you’re solo or traveling light, this capsule hotel is a solid pick. The pods are more spacious than you’d expect and come with app-controlled beds, lights, and alarms. You’re two minutes from Shibuya Crossing, and the shared lounge makes it easy to meet people or get some work done.

3. Hoshinoya Tokyo

This is a modern ryokan in the middle of the city. Shoes off at the entrance, tea service on every floor, and a rooftop onsen with natural hot spring water. It’s quiet, polished, and one of the most relaxing stays in central Tokyo.

Tip: Use ZeroFX to pay in yen with your bunq card and get the best exchange rate with no hidden fees.

Where to Eat & Drink

4. Gyukatsu Motomura

Beef cutlet, flash-fried and served rare. You grill each piece yourself on a hot stone at the table, pairing it with miso soup, rice, and pickles. The texture is perfect, the flavor is deep, and it somehow still feels light. It’s fast, no-frills, and always worth the queue.

5. Grandfather’s

A quiet bar in Shibuya with wood-paneled walls, vintage records, and strong classic drinks. There are no screens, no distractions, and no need for small talk. It’s been here for decades and hasn’t tried to modernise. That’s part of the appeal.

6. Menya Musashi Kosho

A dependable ramen shop known for its thick noodles and rich, flavourful broth. Portions are generous and service is quick. It’s a good choice for a no-fuss lunch or a warm, late-night stop after walking the city.

7. Kura Sushi

A conveyor belt sushi chain that gets the basics right. Fresh plates, quick service, and a fully digital ordering system. It’s casual and efficient, especially if you’re in a group or on the move. Not a hidden gem, but consistently solid.

8. Tsujihan

This seafood rice bowl specialist operates a few locations in Tokyo. Each serves the same two‑stage experience: start with a sashimi‑topped rice bowl, then pour in dashi broth midway through. Two parts, one meal. Simple, elegant, and well executed.

Where to Explore

9. Nezu Shrine

Nezu Shrine offers a rare moment of calm in the middle of the city. The complex is one of Tokyo’s oldest, known for its curved paths, koi ponds, and a long row of red torii gates that wind gently up a hillside. It’s especially beautiful during the spring azalea season, but worth visiting any time of year. 

10. Daikanyama T-Site

This isn’t just a bookstore. T-Site is a thoughtfully designed cultural hub that includes Tsutaya Books, a café, curated retail, and gallery spaces all housed in a quiet corner of Daikanyama.The architecture alone is worth seeing — three low-rise buildings connected by floor-to-ceiling windows and tree-lined walkways. Inside, it’s calm, well-lit, and filled with things you didn’t know you wanted to browse. 

11. Shimokitazawa

Shimokitazawa is a neighborhood built for wandering. Known for secondhand shops, live music venues, and independent cafés, it’s the kind of place where you can lose track of time and enjoy doing almost nothing. Whether you’re looking for vintage Levi’s, handmade ceramics, or just a good iced coffee, you’ll find it here without trying too hard.

Tip: Set daily Spending Limits in the app to stay in control, even when the vending machines get tempting.

12. Ueno Park

One of the city’s largest public parks, Ueno is a mix of wide tree-lined paths, open lawns, shrines, and cultural institutions. It’s home to several major museums, including the Tokyo National Museum and the National Museum of Western Art, as well as Ueno Zoo.

There are paddle boats on the pond, food stalls along the walkways, and plenty of benches if you’d rather just sit and watch the day go by.

13. Betty Smith Jeans

A solid stop for anyone who cares about quality denim. Betty Smith makes Japanese jeans with clean, classic cuts and long-lasting construction. The Tokyo shop is small but well stocked, and the staff are happy to help with sizing and custom options

14. Kamata

This family-run knife shop in Asakusa has been sharpening blades and helping home cooks for generations. The range includes everything from traditional Japanese chef’s knives to more modern, Western-style blades, all selected for quality and balance. The team will walk you through the options, offer guidance based on your cooking habits, and even engrave your name while you wait. Whether it’s for your own kitchen or someone else’s, it’s a gift that lasts.

Tip: Open a Savings Account in seconds and set goals for your next trip before this one’s even over. Maybe call it “Tokyo 2.0” or “Okinawa Here I Come”!

Tokyo doesn’t need an itinerary. Take it one stop, one meal, one side street at a time. With bunq, you can focus on the experience while everything else just works.