Taking a vacation abroad is a rare opportunity, and if the entire itinerary is packed with numerous sightseeing spots, it can get tiring, right? Ms. Mentaiko suggests that when visiting Tokyo, girls can plan a luxurious short trip for 3 days, with 2 days exploring the city center and 1 day in the suburbs. It's essential not to cram too many attractions into a single day and allow oneself to enjoy the present moment fully. After all, you've invested in dining at special restaurants or booking unique experiences, so it's only natural to savor them to the fullest.

If your Tokyo trip extends to more days, you can set aside these 3 days to follow the recommended itinerary and take the time to relax and recharge. Then, you can continue with other exciting activities on the remaining days, maintaining a perfect balance between leisure and exploration.

Ms. Mentaiko suggests that if girls have a comfortable accommodation budget, it's best to choose lodging facilities near the train station and in bustling areas, such as those around the south exit of Shinjuku Station.

The "Odakyu Century Southern Tower Hotel" is an excellent option in this area. The district offers a rich variety of shops and is perfect for shopping sprees. Moreover, it's conveniently located near Shinjuku Station, ensuring easy access to transportation and providing a safe environment for walking at night. The hotel also offers a fantastic view overlooking Shinjuku. Inside the hotel, there are numerous restaurants with a delightful ambiance, making it a perfect choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking relaxation.

For those interested in soaking in hot springs, Ms. Mentaiko recommends "Yuen Shinjuku," a rare hot spring hotel in the bustling area of Shinjuku. The interior design features a blend of modern Japanese style, creating a fashionable and sophisticated atmosphere. After a day of shopping in Shinjuku, returning to the hotel to unwind in the hot springs is a luxurious treat that girls will surely find worthy of praise!

We understand that when it comes to dining, many people are more willing to have a generous budget. In Tokyo, there are plenty of opportunities to indulge in luxurious gourmet experiences. High-end areas like Ginza, Akasaka, and Omotesando host numerous Michelin-starred restaurants. Additionally, savoring the exquisite craftsmanship of professional chefs while enjoying wagyu beef and other specialty dishes at upscale restaurants is truly a delightful experience.

In addition, Tokyo, being a metropolitan city, also boasts a plethora of dining establishments located in high-rise buildings or around iconic landmarks. For instance, "Sky Lounge TOP of TREE" on the 31st floor of Tokyo Skytree Solamachi offers a close-up view of Tokyo Skytree and the surrounding cityscape.

The restaurant becomes even more enchanting and romantic after nightfall when the city lights up. Imagine starting your evening by ascending to the observation deck of Tokyo Skytree to admire the breathtaking night skyline, followed by a relaxing and delightful time with a drink at the restaurant.

It's an extraordinary experience that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the comfort and luxury.

Ms. Mentaiko particularly recommends that girls seeking a touch of luxury should consider dining at picturesque restaurants. For example, they can enjoy kaiseki cuisine while sitting in a Japanese garden at "Tokyo Shiba Tofuya Ukai," where they can also admire Tokyo Tower. Another option is the French cuisine restaurant "Fish Bank TOKYO" located on the 41st floor of Shiodome City Center.

If you want to learn more about Ms. Mentaiko's experiences and reasons for these recommendations, we'll provide further details as you continue reading!

Tokyo, being a popular tourist destination, offers a plethora of interesting experiences for foreign visitors to explore. Here, we'll highlight several sophisticated and high-end experiences for girls seeking a unique and unforgettable journey.

Firstly, there's the "Instagrammable Cooking Class," tailored to the trend of food photography on social media. This class teaches you to create visually appealing and delicious hand-rolled sushi. Additionally, you can opt for a private helicopter ride, immersing yourself in the feeling of opulence as you overlook the bustling cityscape and the seemingly tiny crowd below.

For a more romantic experience, embark on a sightseeing cruise in Tokyo Bay during sunset. Indulge in exquisite Western cuisine and fine wine while surrounded by the captivating scenery. Alternatively, you can rent a kimono and take some beautiful photos with your girlfriends, cherishing the memories of a unique and picturesque adventure in traditional attire.

Ms. Mentaiko has generously handpicked several of her personal favorite attractions, and we've organized them into a 3-day itinerary, accompanied by her firsthand experiences and impressions.

The itinerary includes visits to the esteemed Hotel Gajoen, known as "Tokyo's most luxurious hotel," savoring kaiseki cuisine amidst the picturesque setting of Tokyo Tower and a Japanese garden, and embarking on a delightful ride on a vintage British bus for a three-tiered English afternoon tea. And of course, there's plenty of time for shopping and retail therapy. Get ready to indulge in a luxurious Tokyo experience together!

Whether you've just landed or completed a few days of sightseeing, the first thing to do is to head to Shinjuku for hotel check-in and luggage drop-off. After settling your belongings, the first destination is Ms. Mentaiko's personal favorite spot, Hotel Gajoen in Meguro! From Shinjuku, you can easily reach Meguro by taking the JR Yamanote Line, with a short 11-minute journey.

Located in Meguro, "Hotel Gajoen" is an opulent Japanese-style hotel designed like a museum, boasting the extravagant title of "Tokyo's most luxurious hotel." Its interior exudes elegance, offering top-notch services and impeccable restaurants, making it a favorite gathering place for many high-society individuals. Moreover, Hotel Gajoen houses numerous historic paintings, magnificent murals, and the designated cultural asset, the Hyakudan Kaidan ("Hundred Steps Staircase"). It often hosts various exhibitions, allowing the general public to purchase tickets and visit as a charming attraction.

Ms. Mentaiko: "Though Hotel Gajoen is a luxury hotel, it doesn't feel intimidating for regular visitors. Moreover, there are frequently curated exhibitions at the 'Hyakudan Kaidan' with a blend of Japanese tradition and modern aesthetics. During these exhibitions, they often offer special ticket packages that allow you to wear a kimono, take beautiful photos within this cultural heritage, and enjoy afternoon tea in a stunning traditional setting. It's an experience that any girl would love!"

Inside Hotel Gajoen, the Hyakudan Kaidan offers special ticket packages that include access to the restaurant. During planned exhibitions, they also offer special ticket packages that include access to the exhibition along with options for souvenir items, kimono experiences, and lunch. This allows visitors not only to explore the beautiful cultural heritage but also to don a kimono and savor exquisite Japanese-style lunch or afternoon tea, providing a unique and luxurious experience distinct from regular tourists.

As Hotel Gajoen is a highly worthwhile place to visit, with dining and photo opportunities, you can easily spend around 2.5 to 3.5 hours or more exploring. By the time you leave Hotel Gajoen, it may be approaching evening. The next stop is Akabanebashi Station, where Tokyo Tower is located. From Meguro Station, take the Tokyo Metro to Azabu-Juban, and then transfer to the Toei Oedo Line to reach Akabanebashi Station, which takes approximately 20 minutes.

Here, Ms. Mentaiko would like to recommend a tofu-based kaiseki restaurant called "Tofuya UKAI," located right below Tokyo Tower. As you pass through the restaurant's entrance, a spacious Japanese-style garden with stone steps, flowing water, and charming bridges greets your eyes. The lush greenery and Tokyo Tower create a striking contrast, blending traditional and modern elements seamlessly, making it hard to believe that such a picturesque setting exists in the bustling heart of Tokyo.

Ms. Mentaiko: "I highly recommend this place for those celebrating birthdays or special anniversaries! Once you step inside, it feels like entering a whole different world. The garden with its bridges and flowing water gives off a nostalgic atmosphere of ancient Japan. Plus, every seat in the restaurant offers a view of Tokyo Tower, making the dining experience incredibly romantic and luxurious, especially during the enchanting night hours."

Ms. Mentaiko: "This restaurant is centered around tofu, allowing you to savor various Japanese tofu dishes, such as Kyoto's yuba and traditional tango tofu, among others. Moreover, the waitresses, dressed in beautiful kimonos, introduce each dish with great enthusiasm. Ever since my last visit, I can't stop thinking about it! (laughs) I highly recommend anyone with a budget to come to Tokyo and have this dining experience!"

"Tofuya UKAI" not only specializes in unique Japanese tofu dishes but also embodies the essence and dedication of Japanese food culture in every meal. With the Japanese-style garden embellished by Tokyo Tower and the attentive and warm service from the waitresses in kimono, it truly offers a luxurious and heartwarming dining experience.

Tokyo Tower itself is a famous attraction, featuring a high observation deck that offers stunning views of the cityscape. It's a perfect spot to visit before dinner, especially during the evening when you can enjoy the sunset and the city lights gradually coming to life, creating a poetic and vibrant atmosphere. Alternatively, you can have dinner at "Tofuya UKAI" and then head to Tokyo Tower afterward. By this time, the night will have completely fallen, and you'll be able to witness the sparkling Tokyo cityscape, resembling a starry sky, adding a touch of romance to your luxurious mini-trip.

After dinner and a visit to Tokyo Tower, you can conveniently return to Shinjuku directly from Akabanebashi Station. Take the Toei Oedo Line, and within approximately 13 to 14 minutes, you'll arrive in Shinjuku without the need to transfer. Once back in Shinjuku, you can choose to explore department stores or electronics shops for shopping, or spend some quality time with your friends at an izakaya or wine bar, chatting and enjoying a drink together.

On the second day, we'll venture a bit farther and head to Kairakuen Garden in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture, to admire the beautiful flowers! Kairakuen is one of Japan's three famous gardens, known for its year-round beauty, but especially renowned for its plum blossom festival held from mid-February to the end of March. During this festival, over 3,000 plum trees of more than 100 varieties bloom in a splendid display that leaves visitors in awe.

During the plum blossom festival period (mid-February to the end of March), a temporary station (called Kairakuen Station) will be open on weekends, allowing you to take the JR Joban Line special express train from Tokyo or Ueno Station. The journey takes about 1 hour.

In other seasons, you can still reach Kairakuen by taking the JR Joban Line train from Tokyo or Ueno to Mito Station, and then a bus to the garden, which takes about 1.5 hours.

Ms. Mentaiko: "Inside Kairakuen, there's a lake called 'Senba Lake' where black swans and white swans leisurely reside, a scenery that is rarely seen in Japan. Moreover, there's a charming cafe called 'Koubun Cafe' by the lakeside, offering adorable swan-shaped cream puffs. The cafe has large floor-to-ceiling windows, providing a picturesque view of the serene lake with its green surroundings. It's the perfect spot to enjoy cute desserts and capture beautiful photos!"

Ms. Mentaiko: "Inside Kairakuen, there's another traditional Japanese café called '樂' (Raku), a semi-open historical building where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire garden. When the plum blossoms bloom in February and March, it's like being surrounded by a dreamy pink and white wonderland. Moreover, they serve many plum-themed beverages and snacks that are exquisitely presented and perfect for capturing stunning photos, making it a delightful spot for girls to visit!"

After leaving Kairakuen, we returned to Tokyo for lunch at "Fish Bank TOKYO" located in Shimbashi. This French restaurant on the 41st floor of the Shiodome City Center offers a fantastic bird's-eye view with an unobstructed, direct view of Tokyo Tower. While dinner can cost over 10,000 yen per person, you can enjoy a special set menu during lunchtime for under 5,000 yen, making it a much more affordable option and highly recommended for a satisfying midday meal.

Ms. Mentaiko: "Having lunch at Fish Bank TOKYO is worth it just for the breathtaking view outside the window (laughs). And their cuisine is truly exceptional. I had their lunch once before and it was fantastic. They even have a dessert trolley with each sweet treat beautifully presented, like jewels in a box, and they taste just as delightful. I later brought my friends here to celebrate, and they loved the gorgeous night view, delicious food, and attentive service. It's definitely one of my highly-rated restaurants!"

After savoring the exquisite French cuisine at "Fish Bank TOKYO" with the enchanting view of Tokyo Tower, it's time to stroll through Ginza and indulge in the luxurious afternoon like Ms. Mentaiko! From Shimbashi, it's just a 5-minute walk to Ginza's shopping district, where you'll find a variety of international flagship stores, such as Tiffany & Co., Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and more. Among them, Ms. Mentaiko highly recommends visiting the Hermès "Maison Hermès Ginza." This exclusive building is entirely dedicated to Hermès and houses not only its boutique but also the Hermès Café for sophisticated afternoon tea and the Hermes Le Forum, an art gallery.

Ms. Mentaiko: "I've always thought of Hermès as a place I wouldn't just casually step into. It was when my husband brought me here upon arriving in Japan that I noticed the free art gallery, Hermes Le Forum, on the upper floor. They frequently host exhibitions, and both the architecture and the interior of the art gallery are truly beautiful. It's my personal hidden gem and a place I adore."

Even if you don't plan on splurging on Hermès products, you can still visit Le Forum to explore the artistic world of Hermès. If you have some time, don't miss the chance to sit in Hermès Café on the second floor, experiencing the refined ambiance of a café under this luxury brand. It's a rare indulgence!

Must-Visit Luxury Flagship Stores in Ginza

In Ginza, besides upscale boutique flagship stores, you can find a variety of affordable options such as Ginza UNIQLO, the renowned stationery store Ito-ya, the Muji flagship store, and Tokyu Hands, among others.

Additionally, you'll discover prominent department stores like Ginza Mitsukoshi, Matsuya Ginza, and GINZA SIX, offering abundant shopping opportunities. Whether you are a budget-conscious traveler or seeking economical options, Ginza has something for everyone.

One highlight of Ginza is the presence of Japanese grocery store chains, including the well-known Lofts. The Ginza Lofts boasts six floors filled with an extensive range of items, from cosmetics, toiletries, and trendy groceries to travel goods, 3C products, clocks and watches, stationery, and kitchenware.

Moreover, you can find ingredients from all over Japan and convenient cooking kits, making it a popular shopping destination for both locals and tourists. With the added benefit of duty-free service, it's an ideal place to browse and discover specialty souvenirs without a specific shopping agenda.

Ms. Mentaiko: "I highly recommend those who want to buy the latest trends and makeup products in Japan to visit Loft. They always have the most popular items displayed directly, and whenever I want to know what's currently trending, I head straight to Loft. The products are well-organized, and they offer a wide range of brands. Many items are also available for testing, so even if you haven't done prior research, you won't have to worry about what to buy."

Ginza offers a plethora of places to explore, and it can easily take several hours to go through everything. If you're looking to have dinner in Ginza, there are various options to consider, such as restaurants offering premium wagyu beef, Michelin-starred kaiseki cuisine, all-you-can-eat sushi, and more. Alternatively, for travelers with energy and a taste for luxury, you can venture to the upscale district of "Akasaka" near Japan's government offices to experience a different kind of sophisticated nightlife, contrasting with the grandeur of Ginza.

Recommended Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurants and wagyu beef eateries

After checking out in the morning, we headed to Omotesando (unless continuing the stay for today). On our last day, we indulged in the experience of Ms. Mentaiko's recommended "Afternoon Tea Bus Tour," where we sat inside a beautifully decorated vintage British bus adorned with roses and enjoyed a delightful afternoon tea. From different angles, we admired famous landmarks such as Omotesando's iconic buildings, Shibuya, Roppongi, and Tokyo Tower, making it an absolute dream for anyone with a young heart!

Ms. Mentaiko: "Once onboard, the bus starts with an informative broadcast about the history of the bus and British afternoon tea culture, giving it a delightful Disney-like charm. The Afternoon Tea Bus offers various themes, and the one I attended was the 'SCONE PARTY,' featuring scones from two renowned bakeries on one tier of the three-tiered cake stand. It was fantastic to taste both scones in one go, along with other treats like strawberry cake, sandwiches, and burgers, not just limited to sweet desserts. The drinks are ordered via Line messaging app and come with unlimited refills. You can simply send a message to place your order, and the bus staff even respond with cute stickers, making it a super fun experience (laughs)."

The "SCONE PARTY" is a limited-time theme, and if it has ended, you can still enjoy the regular "Afternoon Tea Bus Tour." Additionally, they introduce new themes periodically; for details, refer to their official website.

After the delightful Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, you will return to Omotesando, where you can fully explore this vibrant area. Omotesando is a street in Tokyo known for its plethora of high-end boutiques, featuring many internationally renowned luxury brands. The district boasts architectural masterpieces designed by famous architects, such as Tadao Ando's "Omotesando Hills," Kazuyo Sejima & Ryue Nishizawa (SANAA)'s "Dior Omotesando," the rotating tower "GYRE" designed by a collaboration between Dutch and Japanese teams, and Kengo Kuma's "One Omotesando," among others. These architectural wonders are truly worth a visit.

Moreover, for budget-conscious ladies seeking to indulge in vintage designer bags, a visit to the "AMORE" store, specializing in vintage luxury handbags, is highly recommended.

Must-Visit Recommendations for Omotesando

Ms. Mentaiko recommends "SPIRAL" in Omotesando. It is a multifaceted facility that focuses on art and lifestyle, designed by the internationally renowned Japanese architect Fumihiko Maki. The grand and beautiful spiral staircase in the lobby is truly impressive. Inside, you can find various artistic and trendy businesses, including cafes and general stores. On the second floor, there are seats where you can overlook the bustling pedestrians, making it a perfect place to take a breather from busy life.

Ms. Mentaiko: "I often visit 'SPIRAL' to explore exhibitions and unique items, especially the stylish interior of the miscellaneous goods store which exudes a great sense of quality. Additionally, there are two cafes that I absolutely love. The first one is 'Sakurai Hojicha Laboratory.' While there are many traditional tea shops in Japan, it's quite rare to find a specialty hojicha store in the city center. The ambiance is beautifully nostalgic, reminiscent of Kyoto's charm. The staff will recommend hojicha based on the day's mood, explaining the aroma and dessert pairings for each variety, making it a delightful experience. Every time I bring my female friends to 'SPIRAL,' they all adore this place!"

Ms. Mentaiko: "Another place I often visit is 'call.' Their coffee shop uses tableware designed by the Japanese designer Akira Minagawa, which is incredibly adorable. Right next to the coffee shop, there's also a minä perhonen store, Akira Minagawa's brand, where you can browse. If you're a fan of Akira Minagawa's designs, I highly recommend coming here to enjoy a meal, have afternoon tea, and explore the charming goods."

In bustling and vibrant Tokyo, there are numerous picturesque and delectable attractions and cuisines to explore. Moreover, the city boasts a plethora of luxurious facilities and experiences. Taking the opportunity to travel to Tokyo during holidays allows you to pamper yourself, indulge in a bit of luxury, unwind your soul, capture beautiful photos for social media check-ins, and create wonderful vacation memories to cherish.