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Expat Exchange - Discovering the Best of Tokyo 2024
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Daikanyama, Tokyo


Discovering the Best of Tokyo

By Betsy Burlingame

William Russell
William Russell

Summary: Our Guide to Tokyo: Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Plus, Tips on Making Connections with the Locals and Finding Fun Recreational Activities

Welcome to Tokyo! If you're planning to move to Tokyo, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Tokyo has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Tokyo.

Tokyo is a vibrant city with a wide variety of attractions for both tourists and locals. One of the most popular sites is the Tokyo Skytree, a 634-meter tall tower that offers stunning views of the city. The Tokyo National Museum is another popular destination, with its vast collection of Japanese art and artifacts. The Meiji Shrine is a beautiful Shinto shrine located in the heart of the city, and the Imperial Palace is a must-see for its historical significance. For those looking for a more modern experience, Tokyo also has a variety of shopping districts, such as Ginza and Shibuya, as well as the Tokyo Disney Resort.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Tokyo is vibrant and diverse. Some of the most popular restaurants include Sushi Dai, a renowned sushi restaurant in the Tsukiji Fish Market, and Kanda Yabu Soba, a traditional soba noodle restaurant. For a more upscale experience, there are many Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Narisawa and Sushi Saito. As for nightlife, there are a variety of bars and clubs, such as the popular Bar High Five and the chic Womb.

Tokyo also offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors and locals alike. Popular activities include visiting the Tokyo Dome City amusement park, which features roller coasters, arcades, and a variety of other attractions. The Tokyo National Stadium is a great place to watch sports, and the Tokyo Dome is a popular venue for concerts and other events. For those looking for a more relaxing experience, there are many parks and gardens, such as the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and the Ueno Park.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Tokyo: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"Tokyo is a great city for meeting people and making new friends. There are many great ways to meet people such as joining a local class or club, going to a language exchange event, using social media apps like Meetup and Couchsurfing, or networking events such as those hosted by coworking spaces like Tokyo Creative Lab. You can also find local events and festivals, get involved in the volunteer scene, or use websites like Meetup to find events and activities that interest you. No matter what you decide to do, there are plenty of chances to make new friends and meet interesting people in Tokyo," said one expat living in Tokyo.

"Expats in Tokyo often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, sports teams, and international meetups. Expats can also meet people by attending events such as art exhibitions, music festivals, and food markets. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online communities and forums to connect with other expats living in Tokyo. Finally, expats can also meet people by attending networking events, joining coworking spaces, and attending classes at local universities," wrote a member in Tokyo.

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"Living in Tokyo as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is a vibrant and bustling metropolis, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's unique culture, cuisine, and nightlife, as well as its modern infrastructure and efficient public transportation system. Tokyo is also home to a large international community, making it easy to meet people from all over the world. The cost of living in Tokyo can be high, but there are plenty of affordable housing options available. With its excellent healthcare system, reliable internet, and abundance of coworking spaces, Tokyo is an ideal destination for digital nomads," commented an expat living in Tokyo.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


William Russell
William Russell

William Russell
William Russell

Daikanyama, Tokyo

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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