Luxury Things To Do In Tokyo – The Ultimate Guide in 2024
Planning a trip to Japan and looking to add a touch of luxury? You’re in the right place. This guide is packed with straightforward advice and tips on how to enjoy both affordable and expensive upscale experiences in Japan, ensuring your trip is memorable for all the right reasons. Let’s dive right into the luxury things to do in Tokyo, without the hefty price tag.
Table of Contents
Visit Tokyo’s Upscale Areas
Minato-ku – the richest area in Tokyo
Visit Minato-ku, Tokyo’s most expensive neighborhood. Roppongi in Minato-ku, for example, is home to upscale shopping and dining experiences, and the Roppongi Hills is a must-visit for its stunning city views and the Mori Art Museum.
For further reading: The Wealthiest Neighborhoods in Tokyo
Things to do in Minato-ku
Visit Tokyo’s Best Rooftop Bars
Minato-ku boasts some of Tokyo’s most exclusive bars and clubs, particularly in the Roppongi area.
For further reading: Tokyo’s Best Rooftop Bars
For a sophisticated evening, visitors can head to one of the many rooftop bars that offer breathtaking views of Tokyo’s skyline, accompanied by premium cocktails and exquisite appetizers.
We recommend visiting The Ritz Carlton Tokyo’s The Bar if you are looking to experience an upscale luxury nightlife in Tokyo’s district of the rich.
Perched on the 45th floor of The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, “The Bar” is the epitome of luxury nightlife, with its glossy marble interiors, rich woods, and dramatic, floor-to-ceiling windows, the ambiance here is one of refined elegance.
Signature drinks to try include their famed “Ritz-Carlton Champagne Cocktail” and the “Tokyo Tower,” inspired by the city’s iconic landmark. The cocktails are crafted with premium spirits and unique ingredients, making each sip a memorable experience.
This luxurious setting of The Bar attracts an upscale crowd, including international travelers and local high-flyers looking to unwind in style. The atmosphere is more suited for intimate conversations and quiet celebrations than loud parties, making it the perfect spot for a classy evening out.
Pricing and Hours Reflective of its setting and clientele, prices at The Bar are on the higher end, with cocktails typically starting from around 2,000 yen. It’s open from 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM from Monday to Thursday, 5:00 PM to 11:30 PM on Fridays, and 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM on Saturdays. On Sundays, the hours are 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
Location and Contact The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo is located at Tokyo Midtown 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan, 107-6245. For inquiries or reservations at The Bar, you can contact them at +81 3-6434-8711 or visit their website.
Historical and Cultural Gems
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Minato-ku is steeped in history and culture. The area is home to several significant landmarks such as Tokyo Tower, an iconic symbol of the city’s post-war rebirth, and Zojoji Temple, which offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich spiritual heritage.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the district’s range of museums, including the Nezu Museum with its vast collection of Asian art and serene Japanese garden, and the Suntory Museum of Art.
Personally, we also love the exhibitions at National Museum of Modern Art as well as the Mori Art Museum, both situated in Roppongi. These art museums are focusing on Japanese aesthetics through various art forms.
Moreover, the embassies scattered throughout the district add an international flavor, offering various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.
Ginza – Tokyo’s luxury district
Ginza is Tokyo’s shopping and dining hotspot where you can have countless upscale things to do in Tokyo. From high-end boutiques to affordable local shops, it offers a variety of options to suit all budgets.
Shopping and Fashion
Known as one of the most luxurious shopping districts in the world, Ginza is where you’ll find a multitude of high-end brands, from international giants like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci to renowned Japanese labels such as Mikimoto and Tasaki.
The district is a fashion enthusiast’s paradise, offering the latest trends and timeless classics in its numerous flagship stores. But Ginza isn’t just for those who prefer upscale shopping in Tokyo; it’s also home to the popular UNIQLO Ginza store and the affordable yet trendy GU, providing a balanced shopping experience that caters to all preferences and budgets.
For souvenirs, Ginza also houses the flagship store of LOFT variety store and MUJI where you can buy souvenirs whether you are looking for expensive Japanese souvenirs or affordable ones.
Culinary Delights
Whether you’re craving meticulously prepared sushi at the world-famous Sukiyabashi Jiro, indulging in exquisite kaiseki cuisine at Ginza Kojyu, or enjoying a panoramic view of the city with French cuisine at L’Osier, Ginza satisfies all gastronomic desires.
The district is also perfect for foodies on a budget, with plenty of mid-range options offering high-quality dishes. Coffee connoisseurs will appreciate the area’s vibrant café culture, featuring both stylish modern coffeehouses and traditional kissaten.
For further reading, please check our detailed guide on the best things to do in Ginza
Omotesando – Tokyo’s Champs Elysees
Often referred to as Tokyo’s Champs-Elysees, Omotesando is a tree-lined avenue fusing the city’s architectural grandeur with high-end shopping and cultural experiences. This iconic thoroughfare, celebrated for its zelkova tree canopy, hosts an array of flagship stores from global luxury brands, making it a premier destination for fashion enthusiasts.
Shopping Highlights
Omotesando stands out as a prime shopping destination in Tokyo, known for its high-end boutiques and cutting-edge architecture. It houses Omotesando Hills, an upscale shopping mall.
The area hosts flagship stores of international luxury brands such as Prada and Louis Vuitton, as well as Japanese designers. For more affordable shopping, visitors head to Kiddy Land for toys and novelty items, or Oriental Bazaar for budget-friendly Japanese crafts.
The backstreets, or Ura-Harajuku, offer a variety of independent boutiques and second-hand stores, providing a contrast to the main avenue’s luxury offerings.
Dining Options
The dining scene in Omotesando is diverse, catering to a range of tastes and budgets. Upscale options include places like Omotesando Ukai-tei, known for its high-quality teppanyaki.
Another option for a great outdoor upscale lunch option in Omotesando is Cafe & Dining Zelkova which is located at The String.
We came here after going to Omotesando Hills and immediately noticed its great outdoor sitting. We personally enjoyed their Prix Fixe Course at around 3,500 Japanese Yen (approximately $27) with their very delicious salad.
Dessert enthusiasts frequent spots like Pierre Hermé for pastries and Dominique Ansel Bakery for unique ice cream flavors.
Omotesando combines luxury with accessibility, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in fashion, food, and modern urban culture in Tokyo. Whether you’re there for the high-end shopping experience, to explore local boutiques, or to enjoy a meal, the area accommodates all preferences and budgets.
Eat at Luxury Japanese Michelin-starred Restaurants
Japan’s Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Sukiyabashi Jiro and Ryugin, offer a range of prices and menus, providing a top-tier dining experience that can be tailored to your budget.
Sukiyabashi Jiro: The Sushi Legend
Sukiyabashi Jiro, often considered the holy grail of sushi dining, is a three-Michelin-star restaurant located in Ginza, Tokyo.
Known for its legendary chef Jiro Ono, the subject of the documentary “Jiro Dreams of Sushi,” this restaurant is renowned for its Edomae-style sushi, the tradition of Tokyo-style sushi.
What to order? The set menu, focusing on a variety of fresh, seasonal seafood, can cost around 30,000 to 40,000 yen per person. Due to its immense popularity, securing a reservation here requires planning months in advance.
Visit their website for more details: Sukiyabashi Jiro.
Ryugin: A Modern Take on Traditional Kaiseki
Ryugin, another three-Michelin-star establishment, offers a contemporary spin on the traditional kaiseki dining experience. Located in Roppongi in Minato-ku, Tokyo, Chef Seiji Yamamoto skillfully combines Japanese culinary through the seasonal tasting menu, which includes multiple courses, is priced at around 40,000 yen per person.
Reservations are essential and can be made up to a month in advance through their website: Ryugin.
Bakuro Ichidai – The Best Luxurious Yakiniku
Although not “yet” a Michelin-Starred restaurant, our personal favorite which we have been for probably more than 20 times is Bakuro Ichidai.
They have an affordable yet upscale lunch menu that costs only around 2,000 Japanese Yen (approximately 15 USD).
Shop at Tokyo’s Luxury Malls
Ginza Shopping Street and Ginza 6
Ginza Shopping Street is a shopper’s paradise, offering a mix of luxury brands and budget-friendly shops. Ginza 6 is particularly noteworthy for its variety of shops and dining options.
Isetan Shinjuku
Isetan Shinjuku stands as one of the most fashionable department stores in Japan, celebrated for its avant-garde window displays curated by prominent artists.
Spanning several floors, this flagship store presents a rich assortment of goods, from luxurious brands to quality local wares. The lower levels house a ‘beauty apothecary’ and an extensive selection of food and travel items, while the upper floors are dedicated to women’s fashion and homeware.
Just a block away, Isetan Men’s caters exclusively to a male clientele.
For more information, visit Isetan’s website.
Shibuya Seibu
Shibuya Seibu is one of the prominent department stores located in the heart of Shibuya, a bustling hub known for its youth fashion and culture.
Located right next to the world-famous “Shibuya Crossing,” Seibu Shibuya, established in 1968, is a luxury and upscale 9-story establishment which is split into two buildings, each offering an array of high-fashion brands, cosmetics, clothing, accessories, and general goods.
Under the concept “Art Meets Life,” Seibu Shibuya goes beyond the traditional department store offerings. While it does provide a comprehensive lineup of international brands, the store also regularly hosts art exhibitions and installations. These are not confined to any specific part of the store but are spread throughout, allowing visitors to encounter art organically as they shop..
While Ginza Six is known for its high-end global brands and Shinjuku Isetan for its fashion-forward stance, Seibu Shibuya introduces an artistic element to the retail experience, appealing to those who appreciate the finer aspects of modern culture beyond material goods.
For more information, you can visit their website.
Stay at Tokyo’s Most Expensive Hotels
Aman Tokyo & Bulgari Hotel Tokyo
Aman Tokyo provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of the bustling city, with a range of room options available.
While Aman Tokyo is “slightly” more expensive, we recommend Bulgari Hotel Tokyo more because it is newer which was established in April 2023.
The Ritz Carlton Tokyo
Known for its excellent service and timeless luxury, the Imperial Hotel has various stay options to suit different budgets.
The Ritz Carlton Tokyo is “less” expensive by half than Aman Tokyo and Bulgari Hotel Tokyo so if you are looking for a less expensive but still luxurious and upscale hotel in Tokyo, The Ritz Carlton Tokyo would be the best choice. Plus, it is located in Roppongi area in Minato-ku.
Relax and Soak in an Onsen Spa Hot Spring
The Bulgari Spa
The Bulgari Spa, located on the 40th floor of the Bulgari Hotel in Tokyo, is a luxurious 1,800-square-meter space that promises a unique wellness experience. One of the highlights is the 25-meter indoor pool, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling glass windows, offering guests a spectacular view of the Tokyo skyline.
The Bulgari Spa uses products from the state-of-the-art beauty brand Augustinus Bader and is open from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm, with treatment hours extending from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm. Access to the pool is granted to children aged four and above, while the spa and fitness center are reserved for guests aged 16 and over.
Hakone Yuryo
This traditionally-styled resort provides a countryside experience with large hot springs, allowing visitors to enjoy quality time in the rustic charm of Hakone Yumoto. The facility features indoor baths, open-air baths, pottery baths, and saunas.
For a more private experience, guests can choose from 19 private rooms in the “Hanare Yuya Kaden” area. Additionally, relaxation services are available, including the “Hogushian Yururuka” and “Hogushidokoro Zaraku.”
However, there are specific rules for visitors, such as restrictions on tattoos, intoxication, and camera usage in certain areas. Children under seven are not allowed in the public baths, and those with tattoos, including temporary ones, are not permitted entry.
For convenience, a free shuttle bus service is available from Hakone-Yumoto station, making the resort easily accessible.
Experience Unique Japan Tours
For the most unique Japan food tour, we recommend having a Sushi food tour in Tsukiji, which has the best balance for Uniqueness and value for money.
In our comprehensive guide on Japan Food Tours, we emphasize a key travel tip for Japanese cuisine enthusiasts: limit your food tours to no more than three. This recommendation stems from several practical and experiential considerations.
4-hr Tsukiji Fish Market Tour and Sushi Making Class
Uniqueness :
★★★★★
Value for money:
★★★★★
2-hr Sumo Wrestling Experience and Show with Chanko Lunch
Uniqueness :
★★★★★
Value for money:
★★★★
3-hr tour in GION with
10-course Kaiseki dinner plus Pontocho Tour
Uniqueness :
★★★★★
Value for money:
★★★★
Firstly, the diversity of Japanese cuisine is incredibly vast; each region, city, and even neighborhood can offer its unique culinary delights and local specialties.
By limiting yourself to a maximum of three food tours, you allow more in-depth exploration of each food culture, rather than a superficial sampling of many. This approach not only provides a more enriching experience but also helps prevent palate fatigue, ensuring each culinary adventure is fresh and exciting.
Secondly, it’s essential to balance your itinerary. Japan is not just about food (although as a foodie we are also guilty about it!); it’s a country with rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Overstuffing your schedule with food tours can lead to missing out on other quintessential Japanese experiences, such as visiting historic temples, enjoying the natural hot springs, or exploring the bustling urban life.
Lastly, quality over quantity is a mantra that holds especially true for culinary tours. Instead of trying to see, taste, and experience everything, choose tours that offer a diverse cross-section of Japanese cuisine — perhaps one traditional, one regional, and one modern. This way, you’ll gain a well-rounded understanding of Japan’s culinary scene without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Read more about unique Japan food tours here.
Take a Romantic Cruise
Marine Rouge Dinner Cruise in Yokohama
Our personal experience in Marine Rouge was in November which was quite cold, but still it was manageable even when going to the deck of the cruise to take picture and enjoy the view.
We availed the 120-minute Marine Rouge dinner cruise in Yokohama which was definitely a luxurious and unforgettable experience, perfect for those looking to enjoy a romantic evening. As a top-tier attraction, this cruise is known for its elegant ambiance, exquisite dining, and breathtaking scenery.
The upscale dining experience (King Course at 19,000 Japanese Yen, approximately around 150 USD) is enhanced by the ship’s classy interior, featuring plush seating and sophisticated decor, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for romantic evenings, special celebrations, or relaxing in style.
As the cruise sails along the Yokohama’s waterfront, passengers can gaze out at iconic landmarks illuminated at night, such as the Yokohama Bay Bridge and the Yokohama Ferris Wheel, making for an enchanting backdrop to the meal.
For other details, please visit their website.
Wrap-Up
Japan offers a wealth of experiences for those looking to enjoy luxury on a budget. From affordable shopping and dining options in upscale districts like Ginza and Roppongi to budget-friendly stays that don’t compromise on quality and service, this guide provides practical and straightforward advice on enjoying all the luxury things to do in Tokyo, with or without the luxury price tag.
