Tokyo, the city that never fails to amaze me, was a wonderful place to visit. We were granted one free weekend in Tokyo during the study abroad, so I decided to take full advantage.
Friday Evening: Shinjuku Shopping Frenzy:
My first stop was Shinjuku, a vibrant district known for its pulsating energy and endless shopping opportunities. Armed with an empty suitcase and an adventurous spirit, I dove headfirst into the labyrinth of dazzling stores, uncovering hidden treasures at every turn. From trendy fashion boutiques to quirky vintage shops, Shinjuku had it all. I couldn’t resist indulging in a little retail therapy. I also just had to grab some bubble tea from Gong-Cha, a store that Mei recommended. That night I stopped at a restaurant with my friend Nyah to try some dumplings, and safe to say they were delicious. The bright city lights vaguely reminded me of the city that never sleeps, as it seemed that everyone was out that night.
Saturday:
Sunshine City Extravaganza: The next day, I ventured to Sunshine City on Miki-san’s recommendation. It’s a haven for anime enthusiasts and pop culture aficionados. My inner child rejoiced as I stepped into the Pokémon Store. As a Studio Ghibli fan, I couldn’t resist paying a visit to their dedicated store, where Totoro and other iconic characters adorned shelves filled with enchanting merchandise. And let’s not forget the One Piece Store, where I stopped to grab pirate merch for some family friends.
But the real surprise came when I stumbled upon an animal café, expecting bunnies but encountering playful otters instead. The sign outside Their mischievous antics melted my heart, and I spent the afternoon cuddling and playing with these adorable creatures. As if that wasn’t enough, I treated my taste buds to a delightful discovery – taiyaki! These warm fish-shaped pastries, oozing with delectable fillings, were a revelation. I tried one with custard and one with red bean paste. They were by far one of my favorite treats I tried in Japan.
Exploring Toshima’s Hidden Gems: In search of unique finds, I found myself meandering through the charming streets of Toshima. I quite randomly happened upon an antique store where I unearthed a pre-World War tea cup and plate set. I couldn’t resist taking a piece of history home with me, so, of course, I bought it. The shop owner was extremely kind and offered my friends and me some green tea as we waited for her to bag our pieces. As the sun began to set, I stumbled upon several local shrines, their peaceful ambiance providing a respite from the urban hustle. With a sense of tranquility, I paid my respects and soaked in the cultural richness surrounding me. 
Evening Delights in Shibuya: The evening beckoned, and my path led me to Shibuya, where I took part in the infamous Shibuya crossing. A growling stomach guided me to a delightful Korean restaurant, where I savored the heavenly flavors of kimchi fried rice, a harmonious blend of spice and comfort. While wandering, I found my way to a cute mocktail bar and was treated to visually stunning concoctions that tasted as good as they looked.
Sunday: Exploring History and Feasting:
Sunday dawned with a cultural twist. I visited the majestic Imperial Palace, its grandeur a testament to Japan’s rich heritage. I spent quite some time watching over the koi fish as they reminded me of my pet fish that I had left behind in the States. The tranquil surroundings provided a serene escape from the bustling city, allowing me to immerse myself in the allure of ancient traditions.
After that, I journeyed the subway to UTokyo’s festival, which was in full swing, tempting me with a tantalizing array of street food stalls. I also watched several performances on the stage, and let’s just say they all killed it. The campus was abuzz with activity, with students proudly showcasing their talents and accomplishments. While the food stalls were good, I was craving a bigger meal, so I made my way toward a nearby restaurant. Luckily, I found a delicious Indian place with naan as big as my head. After refueling, I made my way to the iconic Senso-ji Temple, a spiritual sanctuary nestled in the heart of Asakusa. The vibrant red gates, known as “kaminari-mon,” welcomed me into a world of ancient wisdom and tranquility. As I strolled along Nakamise Street, lined with bustling shops offering traditional crafts and souvenirs, I couldn’t resist picking up a few mementos to commemorate my journey.
The evening approached, and with a satisfied heart and a slight pang of nostalgia, I made my way to a charming local eatery near my hotel. The aroma of sizzling dishes filled the air as I savored a delicious dinner that included filling gyozas and a noodle dish whose name I can’t recall. Reflecting on the whirlwind weekend, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the multitude of experiences, from the otters and shopping sprees to the cultural immersion and tantalizing food.