1. They like Americans here. I’ve been cursed in France, elbowed in Seoul, gypped in Italy, distained in Holland and refused use of the toilet in London. That doesn’t happen in Tokyo. School kids want to speak English with you and have their picture taken with you and stores and restaurants unfailingly greet you with a loud “Irrashaimase” (welcome!) when you enter. People are actually helpful. Try asking for directions in Paris and see what that gets you.
2. Great food. Americans squeamish about raw seafood need have no fear. Food and Wine magazine rates Tokyo the Planet’s #1 Food City and the Michelin Guide rated Tokyo twice as high as Paris! The cuisines of the world are here in abundance. Fabulous Chinese food, great Italian and Indian food are nearby. They use knives and forks. There are over 500 McDonald’s restaurants and uncountable Starbucks so there is comfort when needed. About the only cuisine that is in short supply is Mexican. I don’t know why.
3. Beautiful parks/public spaces. The Japanese love nature and the outdoors. That is why Tokyo is full of parks and gardens. The plazas around restaurants are spacious, clean, safe and graffiti-free.
4. Western Arts/Museums/Music. Since the Meiji Restoration (mid-1800’s) the Japanese have had an interest in Western culture. But it really flourished during the boom years of the 70’s and 80’s. If you love Western art this is the place for you. The orchestras of the world make Tokyo a regular stop, not to mention jazz and pop artists.
(This is my orchestra. Come hear us!)
5. Japanese Culture. You can get the real lowdown on the samaurai. So also Kamakura, Japan’s ancient capital is a short bus trip away. There are interesting Buddhist and Shinto Shrines and temples all over the place. If you’re looking for a dried-out squid I know where you can get one. Beyond that I have only 2 words to say: Kabuki Za.
6. Natural beauty. Mount Fuji stands in the distance and can be visited easily by tour bus or train. The countryside is a rich tapestry of rice paddies, orchards and tea fields. Giant swaying bamboo forests and craggy mountains.
7. It’s safe here. There are police but they don’t seem to have much to do. That’s good for you. Bring granny and the kids.
8. Shopping. I’m not much of a shopper but whatever you’re looking for there’s probably a district in Tokyo which specializes in it. Cool flea markets where you can buy a kimono or interesting pottery. Did I mention dried-out whole squid? Elsewhere they have Asian fabrics to die for and you can buy plastic food indistinguishable from the real thing. What more can I say?
9. It’s different. I mean, really, do you need another trip to Orlando?
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