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Foodie's Guide To Tokyo, Japan

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Many foodies have called Tokyo a "food lover's paradise." With the diverse selection of restaurants and cuisine options, it's no wonder why a trip to Tokyo is generally at the top of every food lover's must-see list. No matter where you plan to stay while in Tokyo, chances are you will have near endless dining options within a short distance from your hotel, making this city, one of the most convenient for foodies.

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Places Foodies Love

Tokyo is home to many restaurants that foodies have fallen in love with. Travelers will find everything from quaint cafes to fine dining establishments and sashimi eateries to ramen parlours. It's nearly impossible to run out of dining options when visiting Tokyo. Some of the more popular restaurants in Tokyo include Aoi Marushin, Brooklyn Pancake House, Omotesando Koffee, Echire, Henri Charpentier, Katsukura, Sushitomi, Maisen Tonkatsu, Nihonbashi Yukari and Ichiran Ramen. These are just a few of the top restaurants, all of which are definitely worth experiencing while in Tokyo.

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(credit: アキエ/Yelp)

Nightclubs Foodies Enjoy

Those looking to get out for an evening of fun, dancing and food, Tokyo is home to many different nightclubs offering everything from wild parties to dancing and unique beverages to people from around the world. Going to a night club offers a time to meet new people, have fun and experience a new late-night culture and lifestyle. Top night clubs in Tokyo include ageHa, Blue Note, Feria, Genius and Womb.

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Festival For Foodies

The Wine and Gourmet Japan 2016 festival is planned for April 13-15. This festival features 11 different country and regional pavilions and exhibitors from more than 20 different countries, which feature food and beverages from around the world. Products available during the festival include beer, sake, gourmet foods, wine and spirits. The festival also hosts comprehensive seminars and guest speakers.

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JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Shinjuku
(credit: Pauline W./Yelp)

Places Foodies Stay

In addition to the many different restaurants located throughout Tokyo, this city is also home to many fine hotels. These places are perfect for foodies looking for a place to stay when wanting to explore the cuisine options of the city. Several of these hotels keep foodies close to popular restaurants and food districts of Tokyo. Popular places to stay while visiting Tokyo include Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku, Hilton Nikko Tokyo, JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Shinjuku, Keio Plaza Hotel Shinjuku, Mercure Ginza Tokyo, Hilton Tokyo Bay Hotel, Hotel Ryumeikan Tokyo, Dormy Inn Premium Shibuya, The Gate Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon by Hulic and Tokyo Station Hotel.

Narita Airport
(credit: TK Kurikawa/Shutterstock)

How Foodies Travel

There are a variety of different ways to get to and around Tokyo. Many who fly into the region land at one of two airports — Narita Airport and Haneda Airport. Travelers will also find that many shinkansen lines make their way to Tokyo, allowing travelers to take direct trips from Osaka, Kyushu and various locations in the Tohoku Region.
 
Once in Tokyo, travelers will find many different transportation options available to take them where they want to go. There is an extensive network of bus lines, subways and trains that connect just about any section of the city. The JR Yamanote Line is the main loop that connects the multiple sections of the city. Other lines, such as Keihin-Tohokn Line, Chuo/Sobu Line, Chuo Line and Saikyo Line, help connect other regions of the city together. This makes it easy to get just about anywhere in Tokyo you need to get to. Tokyo Metro services nine Subway lines and Toei Subways services four lines. There are also several terminal stations throughout the city.
 
Related: How to Keep Your Valuables Safe When Traveling Abroad

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Tokyo Disneyland

There are many different and unique food options at Tokyo Disneyland. Many foodies love the quality and care that goes into all of the food options created at Tokyo Disneyland. Popular restaurants here include Great American Waffle Company, Center Street Coffeehouse, Restaurant Hokusai, China Voyager, Blue Bayou Restaurant and Queen of Hearts Banquet Shop. The best thing about dining at Tokyo Disneyland is that you can choose from a sit-down meal to quick-service, which makes it possible to fit a great meal in no matter how much time you have left to explore the park.
 
Other methods of transportation throughout the city include taking a taxi, walking, or taking a bicycle or car. There are many places where you can rent a car or a bicycle during your visit. However, many who stay in centrally located hotels find that many of the best restaurants in town are located just a short walk away.
 
Pack those bags and make sure to arrive hungry, because your getaway to Tokyo will be filled with lots of eating and drinking. There are so many different food options available the only bad thing you will discover about your trip is that you do not have enough time to fit everything you want to do in your schedule. Chances are you will find yourself making plans to return to Tokyo long before you get back home.

Heather Landon (Heather Leigh Carroll) is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has combined two of her passions - writing and travel - to share her experiences with others. You can read more of her articles at Examiner.com.
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