4 days in Tokyo - Our itinerary for a family trip - Day 3

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Itinerary

1- Tsukiji Market 

2- Tsukiji Hongwanji Buddhist Temple 

3- Sushi Katsura 

4- Kabuki-za Theater 

5- Ginza 

6- Shinjuku 

7- Shinjuku Gyoen Park 

8- Park Hyatt Hotel 

9- Central Park Shinjuku 

10- Tokyo Government Building 

11- Dinner at Piss Alley - Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane)


1- Tsukiji Market

 The third day of our family trip made us get out of bed a bit early but, for a good reason, to visit the Tsukiji Market! We have to agree that a visit to one fish market isn’t exactly an attraction we usually think of when we are going to visit a city, but this isn’t a “normal” market at all ... This is known to be the largest fish market in the world and, is also world famous for being where the known tuna auction takes place every morning.


 Unfortunately, we were unable to see the tuna auction. The reason we didn’t attend was due to the fact that the auction happens very early and, there is only a small number of seats for those who just want to watch. For those who wish to participate, we advise that they sleep in a hotel near the market because they must go very early to be able to get one of the few places. For those who do, we believe that they will be able to watch a unique show, where real fortunes are paid by fishes that go directly to the tables of the best restaurants in Tokyo.

But even for those who don’t attend the auction like our family, the market itself is a must do, and it's fabulous to see all the buzz but, also the organization that marks that unique space. We leave only the recommendation that you try to make your visit so as it won't disturb those who are working there. Apart from this recommendation, enjoy this unique and different experience.

After leaving the market, don’t forget to stroll through the streets near the market, full of commerce and where you can see and experience food that escapes anything you may have ever eaten (in particular we were amazed by the octopus crackers).


Then we made a short walk to the Tsukiji Hongwanji Buddhist Temple. This is a Buddhist Temple unlike any we saw in Tokyo, reminiscent of other more characteristic temples in South Asia.

After all the hustle and bustle of the Tsukiji Market, the calm and modesty of this space were perfect and, outside, we had the chance to participate in a demonstration of traditional Japanese children's games by students of a nearby school. It was a great moment and, after it, we were ready for lunch.


Although we had already eaten some delicious chicken and squid steaks at the Tsukiji Market, we had already planned our lunch spot and it was at Sushi Katsura, not far from where we were. And the reason for this choice was related to various compliments we had read before our trip, which greatly increased our curiosity and desire to go.

This was our most expensive meal in Tokyo but, for the quality of the meal, we are forced to say it was cheap (4000 yen, about € 30). The reviews we had read regarding this restaurant were linked to the quality of the preparation, with the freshness of the fish and, we must say, it was simply wonderful.

Our best sushi meal in a lifetime (and we've been to many) and somewhere we would strongly recommend.

Address: Tōkyō-to, Chūō-Ku, Tsukiji, 2


 After this wonderful lunch, we started our way on foot towards Ginza but, on the way, we planned to pass by and see the building of the Kabuki-za Theater.

This is a theater dedicated to performances of Kabuki, one of the most popular forms of Japanese dramatics, and is the place par excellence for performing these plays. The price of billiards is high, so we have decided not to go but, if you wish to do so, you can access more information here.

5- Ginza

 We quickly reached Ginza, known as the "5th Avenue" of Tokyo. If you want to do (expensive) shopping this is your place in Tokyo.


 Since this was not our goal, we strolled down the street a bit and then walked to the subway, which we picked up towards Shinjuku.



 Shinjuku is known for being the business and administrative center of Tokyo, with its distinctive skyscrapers and, of course, Shinjuku Station, the WORLD's largest station, with about 2 million people passing all days!!


As soon as we got out of this a huge mess, we managed to relax a little at the Gyoen Garden (300 yen price in 2018, closed on Monday).


Despite being a paid park, it’s a very good place to go and relax before the next destination.

 8- Park Hyatt Hotel

 This is an election destination for the fans of 2003 movie “Lost in Translation” and we had to stop by to see where the iconic Sofia Coppola movie, starring Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson. 

 If you are a fan, you will love going there.



A small walk took us from the hotel to Central Park Shinjuku and, this spectacular park allowed the adults to rest for a bit and the son to play in the park.

 10- Tokyo Government Building

 With the day approaching to his end, we headed to the observatory of the Tokyo Government Building, with the aim of seeing the city from the top of one of its towers. The main reason we did not get on the Tokyo Tour was due to the possibility of going up to Tokyo Government Building, which we could do for free, and in our case, we can say that it was a quick climb without any queue and waiting time.


 As you approach, prepare yourself, because you will be dazzled by the sight! On days of totally clear sky, it is possible to see Mount Fuji from the point of observation but, unfortunately, we did not have that possibility, because of some clouds that cover the iconic volcano. Even so, the 360-degree view will not fail to amaze you.


 11- Dinner at Piss Alley - OmoideYokocho (Memory Lane)
After seeing the sunset at the top of the building, we headed to Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane), but better known by its nickname, Piss Alley. And this place, right next to the Shinjuku Station, is famous for the quality of food and low prices, and it is very often a stopping point for Japanese workers to dine before heading home.


This place is known to be the best place in Tokyo to eat yakitori, those small, delicious chicken kebabs that are grilled at your front in small charcoal stoves. But, our goal was not the yakitori (but we eat a lot of them, all over Tokyo), but rather a delicious bowl of udon noodles and, once again, get ready to be marvel with a delicious meal at totally affordable prices. A bowl of udon noodles cost us less than 400 yen (just over €3, $4 USD) but for more 100 yen, you can add tempura (and, believe me, you have to add the tempura!!!). And get ready for a meal so, but so delicious !!!! One of the best meals in Tokyo.



 Unfortunately, we don’t know the exact address but, the Piss Alley is not very big and by taking a short walk through the area you will easily see the udon stall, often with a queue. Do not worry about the queue, because it moves very fast, but it is not a place to stay too long eating, here the meals are eaten quickly to give the place to the next person. You have fresh water available free of charge to accompany your meal and, for less than €5 / $6USD per person, you will have a perfect meal and, after it, we went to our hotel and finished our third day in Tokyo.


 You can see here our second part of the day on google maps here.

We hope our itinerary helps you plan your family trip to Tokyo. We would like to invite you to follow our experience with us for the 4 days of the trip, in which we describe in detail our entire trip and we believe that it will help you to plan your trip to Tokyo, you can see our next day in Tokyo here.

Don't forget that hotels can be very expensive in Tokyo and, you should start searching for accommodations early before the prices get really hight. We always do our reservations with booking, they are our partners and its with them that we get the best deals. You can look for the best deals by clicking here, it won't cost you any money and, it helps us to support our blog.
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We hope you enjoy your family trip to Tokyo and, don't forget to leave your comment and share our Non Stop Family blog. 

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