TRAVEL GUIDE: Tokyo's best kept secrets for hobbyists
PhilSTAR L!fe’s travel guide is a tribute to the destinations that hold a special place in the hearts of Pinoy travelers. We’re going beyond the familiar landmarks of Hong Kong, Singapore, Korea, and Japan to bring you hidden local haunts, unique cultural experiences, and lesser-known sights. These guides promise to show you a side of these countries you won't find in a typical guidebook.
For travelers across the globe, Tokyo is all about getting lost in the neon-lit scramble of Shibuya, hunting for anime merch in Akihabara, healing their inner child at DisneySea or Ghibli Museum, or hauling bags from their tax-free Don Quijote run.
For Filipinos, however, there's more to Japan than the usual tourist stops. Modern Japanese culture has long been woven into everyday Filipino life. From watching Filipino-dubbed Sailor Moon in the ’90s, copying Harajuku-inspired street style in the early ’00s, and fangirling over waves of J-Pop idols and J-Rock bands across the decades. So by the time their plane lands, most Pinoys already feel like they know Tokyo.
That said, the draw is hard to resist for many Pinoys. Just around four hours away from Manila via ZIPAIR’s daily flights to Narita, Tokyo has become as convenient as it is compelling. As of August 2025, over 530,000 Filipinos have already visited Japan, according to reports from the Department of Tourism. That’s out of Japan’s total 21.5 million foreign visitors, which places the Philippines in the Top 10 of the country’s biggest inbound markets, after South Korea, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
The numbers undoubtedly highlight the city’s appeal to Filipino travelers, but they also hint at something more. Because while first-time visitors often tick off the tourist spots (sometimes, traps), Tokyo rewards those who look beyond the usual.
The towering billboards, the bustling streets, and the overwhelming blend of old and new that define Tokyo are only the beginning. Look closer and you’ll find a haven for hobbyists. Here, hobbies are more than just hobbies. They’re lifestyles. Entire neighborhoods are built around passions, and even random alleyways seem to house some of the world’s deepest obsessions.
Carol RH Malasig, known as @almostdiplomatic on social media, joins PhilSTAR L!fe in exploring Tokyo beyond the usual. A Danish-Filipino PR consultant and lifestyle and diplomacy journalist currently based in Japan, she takes us through plenty of surprising discoveries—a mix of well-loved landmarks and tucked-away spots that prove the best parts of Tokyo aren’t always the ones on the postcards or trending on social media.
Where to go: Choose your own adventure
Kichijoji
Just west of central Tokyo lies Kichijoji, a neighborhood renowned for its blend of nature and culture.
Start your day at the sprawling Inokashira Park, a 12-minute walk away from the Kichijoji Station, where you can escape to touch grass and slow your pace. Sit in one of the many benches along the pond, and watch locals walk their pets or jog tree-lined paths. Before leaving the area, order a Chai Latte or Matcha Latte from Nido for a quick pick-me-up.
Before heading to lunch, you can walk through Nakamich-dori—a shopping street brimming with specialty stores and cafes. Here, you can buy dried flowers from Flower Shop Hanayuki to take home, which can be lovely souvenirs for diarists and journalers. (Take note, however, that the shop owner only allows taking photos of the store if you buy something!)
You can also easily spot the Kichijoji Petit Mura, a few steps away, where cat lovers can meet feline friends in their café or discover kitty-inspired finds in their gift shop. Lastly, you can find unique paper crafts and other stationery at Paper Message.
Next, head to Sunroad Shopping Center and enjoy lunch from the many restaurants that line the 300-meter shotengai (covered shopping street). Once you’ve had your fill, walk around to find a variety of stores—including thrift chains such as Book Off and Second Street, local pharmacies, supermarkets, convenience stores, and souvenir shops.
A few minutes away is also Harmonica Yokocho, a narrow alley named for its resemblance to the holes found in the small wind instrument. From Sunroad, you can walk over to find vintage clothing stores, snack stalls, standing bars, and sit-down izakayas. Carol also recommends shopping at Coca for trendy pieces at affordable prices if you’re looking for more Japanese brands similar to Uniqlo and GU.
If you find yourself in the area at night, Kichijoji is also a great place to get a few drinks—especially if you’d like to skip more talked-about areas like Shinjuku’s Golden Gai.
GETTING THERE: Kichijoji is easily accessible via the JR Chūō Line, just 15 minutes from Shinjuku, and is also accessible via the Keio Inokashira Line if you’re coming from Shibuya. Its mix of big-city convenience and suburban charm makes it a favorite weekend escape for Tokyo locals and an easy day trip for travelers.
PRO TIP: If possible, schedule your visit to Kichijoji on a weekday. The area will be less crowded, allowing you to explore at a more leisurely pace. Carol says that some of the eateries and bars will have longer lines during the weekend due to the area’s growing popularity among tourists, so plan accordingly!
Azabujuban
A stylish yet unassuming district in Tokyo, Azabujuban is conveniently located in the Minato area—sandwiched between tourist destinations like Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Tower. It gained fame as the real-life home of Usagi Tsukino, better known as Sailor Moon, but it’s also where a lot of embassies are found in the city. Many of the quiet streets and storefronts here inspired locations in the beloved ’90s series, making it a must-visit for fans who grew up shouting “Moon Prism Power!” after school.
Carol recommends beginning right outside Exit 4 of Azabujuban Station, where you’ll be greeted with a variety of cafes and the first of five manholes—featuring Sailor Moon and Tuxedo Mask—dedicated to the classic anime. These playful covers are part of Tokyo’s unique street culture, and this is just one you won’t want to miss.
Along the main shopping street, you can make a quick stop at the Subundo Book Store to check out their guide to all Sailor Moon-related stops within the area. You’ll also find familiar storefronts such as the McDonald’s that used to be the Crown Game Center in the original ’90s release. You can also spot the Starbucks along the same street, which was in the latest releases under the manga franchise.
Before you continue your Sailor Moon pilgrimage, make a quick stop at Guzen Gekijo. This intimate music hall, founded by the late songwriter Shoichi Kaneko, is tucked away across from the serene Amishiro Park. On most days, it’s an “open house” that welcomes the community—especially kids—to simply enjoy music.
Finally, step away from the main shopping street and head uphill to the Azabu Hikawa Shrine—the location that inspired the shrine of the same name, where Rei Hino or Sailor Mars lives and works with his grandfather. Here, you can purchase an omikuji (a paper fortune) in English or an omamori (a Japanese good luck charm). If you have time, you can also get an ema (small wooden plaque) to write your prayers or wishes before leaving it within the shrine.
GETTING THERE: Azabujuban is on both the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line and Toei Oedo Line, making it an easy stop if you’re coming from central Tokyo neighborhoods like Roppongi or Akasaka.
PRO TIP: If you’re hunting for the Sailor Moon manholes, start early in the day! Rent an electric scooter from the neighborhood to make the trip smoother, as the other manholes are located outside of Azabujuban and all over Minato.
Jimbocho
If Kichijoji is for soft life-seekers and Azabujuban for Sailor Moon fans, Jimbocho is definitely for bibliophiles. Beloved as Tokyo’s “Book Town,” this neighborhood houses over 150 bookstores carrying everything from rare antiquarian books to vintage magazines and modern manga. It's a literary hub so rich in culture that it earned the top spot of Time Out's World's Coolest Neighborhood in 2025.
From Exit A7 of Jimbocho Station, it only takes a minute to find PASSAGE SOLIDA—a “shared bookstore where each shelf has its own owner” and is filled with titles curated based on the owner’s preferences. The concept is a dream come true for Japanese locals who’ve always dreamed of opening their own bookstore, and it’s worth a visit to browse the many shelves (each named after a real street in France) with its variety of titles. On the second floor, you can even find a blue Lovot to play with while you take your time in the store. You’ll find that a majority of titles are in Japanese, but it’s still a notable first stop.
Still, walking amongst the many blocks of secondhand bookstores, specialty shops, and vintage stalls will make you feel like you’re stepping back in time. Even A-list celebrities like Anne Hathaway have been to Sawaguchi Shoten Tokyo Kosho Store, where you can find old postcards and art alongside the shelves of old books. The actress also took home a Jimbocho City t-shirt from here, which has become quite a souvenir for tourists!
For avid fashion magazine collectors, Magnif Zinebocho is a great place to find vintage copies of Vogue, Elle, Esquire, and other long-standing publications. Aside from these titles, retro pins, stickers, and other prints are available—most from the 1970s and 1980s (some even go as far back as the 1920s!). Its bright yellow exterior is hard to miss, so carve some time out of your itinerary to stay here a bit if you want to discover decades-old treasures.
Make Yaguchi Shoten the last stop on your list, known for its iconic outdoor display of books, magazines, and posters on film and theater. It’s one of Carol’s favorite photo spots in the area, and rightly so!
GETTING THERE: Jimbocho Station sits at the intersection of three subway lines: the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Toei Mita Line, and Toei Shinjuku Line—making it a convenient stop from almost anywhere in the city.
PRO TIP: Plan your visit in late October to early November to catch the annual Jimbocho Book Festival, when stalls line the streets with discounted treasures, rare volumes, and literary events—making an already book-filled neighborhood even more magical.
What to do: One-hour wonders
Sit for a coffee tasting at Lonich
Anyone who loves coffee, whether a connoisseur or a casual drinker, should include a visit to Lonich in their itinerary. Their Creative Course (JPY 4,500 or P1,700+) and Collective Course (JPY 8,500 or P3,200+) are essentially a “coffee omakase,” a unique way to discover unexpected flavors within the first few hours of your morning.
The Creative and Collective Courses are perfect for lovers of coffee. From straightforward cups to more experimental mixes, you’ll find Lonich’s unique take on everyone’s morning fix. Elaine Calderon
Inside its minimalist, industrial-inspired space, their baristas reimagine coffee as courses in a tasting menu. Much like a sushi omakase, this allows you to enjoy the usually mundane cup of joe in different ways. You can watch as they expertly prepare your coffee, all while learning about the different beans, roasts, and flavors they’ve combined to come up with the four or eight concoctions you’ll be presented with.
The Creative Course focuses on the fusion of Chinese coffee, tea, and Japanese ingredients, with cups and glasses of hand-poured and shaken drinks that are appropriately refreshing for the start of the day. Meanwhile, in the Collective Course, Lonich dives deeper into Japan’s coffee culture through original recipes by the cafe’s founders—most of which reveal the sheer artistry behind each beautifully presented drink. Expect to be pleasantly surprised by unusual blends and also calmly soothed by familiar flavors.
GETTING THERE: Lonich is located in Kuramae, Taito City (1/F K-Building, 1 Chome-7-4). The easiest way to reach it is by taking the Toei Asakusa Line or Toei Oedo Line to Kuramae Station. From Exit A7, it’s less than a five-minute walk to the café.
PRO TIP: Go with an open mind and a flexible schedule. The omakase experience can take up to an hour, and part of the joy is to savor it slowly. If you’re staying at the Conrad Tokyo, you can approach the concierge to arrange your visit to Lonich (or other immersive experiences, depending on your available hours) through their 1/3/5 Program.
Do a mini-food crawl in Yanaka Ginza
Tucked away in the quieter parts of the Taito ward in Tokyo, Yanaka Ginza is a retro shopping street straight out of the city’s olden days. Unlike the metropolitan intersections of Shibuya and Shinjuku, this district is characterized by a slower, down-to-earth “romanticize everything in life” atmosphere. While it’s very much a shotengai, it’s also popular for its retro charm, old-school storefronts, and local vendors you won’t normally see in its more modern counterparts.
Anyone with the sweet tooth and interest in traditional Japanese culture shouldn’t miss a stroll through Yanaka Ginza. Patricia Geminiano
The area is primarily known for Japanese-style Western food and street snacks, which endear it to anyone who pays it a visit. Make your way through the street to enjoy a baked treat or two from Atom Bakery and soft-serve ice cream from Komichi (JPY 580 or about P230) while hunting for handmade traditional souvenirs or trying your luck in the small neighborhood gacha store. It’s a side of Tokyo that hasn’t changed much over the decades, and it’s quite the respite if you’ve been spending most of your time in the hustle and bustle of Tokyo’s busier districts.
GETTING THERE: Yanaka Ginza is best accessed from Nippori Station on the JR Yamanote Line, just a short walk from the South Exit.
PRO TIP: Go hungry and make sure to withdraw cash with your GoTyme Bank card from any ATM before going. Many of the stalls offer takeaway bites and don’t have cashless payment options, so skip the sit-down restaurants and make your own mini-food crawl along the street.
Start a travel journal with Japanese stationery
Once you’ve had your fill of books at Jimbocho, it’s time to get lost in stationery starting at Bumpodo. This seven-storey art supply store also houses a cafe and a gallery, but it’s best known for carrying an unmatched selection of printing materials in Japan. Carol suggests grabbing one of their notebooks, which she swears is of top-notch paper quality. You may be inspired to start journaling with your finds here!
Wrap up your day in every Hobonichi journaler’s haven: Tobichi, located on the first floor of the Hobonichi Kanda office. This store will bring a tear to your eye just by the sheer amount of Hobonichi Techos and accessories available in-store. You’ll find tools and toys you can’t easily get your hands on in Manila in one place, so you can take your “Life Book” to the next level.
GETTING THERE: Start at Jimbocho Station and take Exit A7, where Bumpodo will be an easy walk of about a minute or two. From here, walk along Hakusan-dori Avenue for a few minutes and turn left onto Kanda-Sudacho to find Tobichi.
PRO TIP: If your flight going home is out of Narita Airport Terminal 1, come a few hours early and check out Traveler’s Factory Airport for exclusive designs you won’t find elsewhere. (Japan isn’t known as the Land of Limited Edition for nothing!)
Where to eat: Signature snacks and must-try favorites
Satou
A must-try when visiting Kichijoji, Satou’s golden Menchi Katsu (JPY 350 for a piece or about P140) has become a signature snack for locals and tourists alike. The Japanese Panko-breaded and deep-fried meat patty may not seem special at first, but this butcher shop-slash-takeout corner will prove you wrong with every bite. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, each Menchi Katsu is packed hot from the kitchen and best enjoyed as soon as you get your hands on it.
Satou also has a restaurant on its second floor specializing in teppanyaki steak. If you have time for a sit-down meal, make sure to try it out!
GETTING THERE: Satou is along Sunroad Shopping Arcade, just a few minutes’ walk from Kichijoji Station.
PRO TIP: It’s not unusual to find long lines waiting to be served this famous Menchi Katsu. There are separate lines for those who want to buy the Menchi Katsu and for those purchasing other items. Make sure you’re queuing in the right line!
Amane
A few streets away from Satou hides Amane, a humble stand tucked within the bustling Sunroad Shopping Arcade. The shop is known for serving some of Kichijoji’s most popular Taiyaki (JPY 240 or about P95), which are Japanese fish-shaped cakes filled with warm, red bean paste. This traditional Japanese dessert consists of a thin, crispy pastry shell, perfect for a light snack while wandering the neighborhood.
GETTING THERE: Amane is located on a side street, approximately five minutes from Kichijoji Station.
PRO TIP: The best way to enjoy Taiyaki is by eating it directly from the hot griddle, so you don’t miss out on the crunch. Plus, watch out for seasonal flavors during your visit.
Sabouru 2
The Jimbocho district maintains its reputation as a book lover’s dream, but it’s also home to some of Japan’s most famous curry restaurants. Sabouru is a kissaten (traditional Japanese coffee shop) located outside Exit A7 of Jimbocho Station, serving comfort food since 1955. The old-timey cafe operates Sabouru 1 and Sabouru 2, where you can come to enjoy some of the city’s favorite coffee, toast, curry rice, and Neapolitan spaghetti.
Sabouru 2 is the place to go for Curry Rice (JPY 1,000 or about P390) after spending the day strolling through Tokyo’s Book Town. The generous serving comes with fluffy white rice perfectly paired with curry that’s a delicious balance of savory, subtly sweet, and spicy—the kind of home-style meal that truly complements a quiet trip to Jimbocho. Get your curry with a cup of soda to find out why this space has stayed a classic in a city where trends easily come and go.
GETTING THERE: Take the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon, Toei Shinjuku, or Toei Mita Line to Jimbocho Station. From Exit A7, it’s only a two-minute walk to Sabouru 2.
PRO TIP: Go early or during off-peak hours. While unassuming, Sabouru’s small space fills up pretty quickly due to its popularity and limited seating capacity.
Italian Kitchen VANSAN
If you’re craving a break from all the sushi and ramen you’ve had throughout the trip, Carol’s go-to restaurants in Tokyo are Italian and French. She emphasizes how Japan has a way of doing everything well—and this includes mastering these cuisines.
In the Edogawa ward, you’ll find one of the locations of Italian Kitchen VANSAN—a restaurant that has become known for its all-you-can-eat and unlimited offerings.
Italian Kitchen VANSAN Elaine Calderon
The menu is comprised of typical Italian fare, from appetizers to desserts. Besides classics like Margherita Pizza and Bolognese, you’ll find unique dishes like Genovese of Lotus Root (JPY 1,639 or about P630) and Devil’s Pasta (JPY 1,419 or about P550)—a spicy and hearty dish that pairs chewy, fresh pasta with a soupy sauce that you can scoop up with bread.
If you’re not feeling very adventurous, their Parmigiano Cheese Carbonara (JPY 1,749 or about P680) pasta is a must-try, finished with a generous shaving of aged Parmesan—and they do it right on your table!
VANSAN’s ambience is chill and cozy, but it’s a fun stop for travelers looking for a lively, casual spot where you can find Italian comfort food with a distinctly Japanese touch.
GETTING THERE: Italian Kitchen VANSAN has several branches across Tokyo, but the Edogawa location is easily accessible via the Toei Shinjuku Line. Alight at Funabori Station, and it’s just a short walk to the restaurant.
PRO TIP: Go during lunch or dinner as their plates tend to be filling. They also accept cashless payments in the Edogawa location, so you can bust out your GoTyme Bank debit card for better rates!
Where to stay: A serene escape over Tokyo Bay
When in Tokyo, any trip can be overwhelming and overstimulating—whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler. Your hotel can make or break your entire experience, so finding a home away from home should be a priority. It should tick all the boxes: spacious rooms, excellent service, and an accessible location. After all, you’ll want somewhere nice to put your feet up after walking over 20,000 steps all over the city!
Conrad Tokyo is exactly this—your very own calm, luxurious bubble above the city. Located right beside Shiodome Station and an eight-minute walk from Shimbashi Station, it’s one of the most convenient bases for exploring the city. This puts you in a sweet spot no matter your itinerary.
Their rooms, starting at ¥85,954 (approximately P33,000 per night), are impressively spacious by Tokyo standards. Its interiors are decked out in modern Japanese design and feature different amenities depending on the room.
The Twin Bay View Suite has a comfortable lounge area, two double beds, a free-standing bathtub, and a walk-in closet. The floor-to-ceiling windows (and automatic blinds and curtains!) offer a panoramic display of Tokyo Bay in all its sweeping beauty, which you can take your time staring at day or night.
Besides the view, the room also gives you access to the Executive Lounge, which offers complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea, snacks, and evening cocktails. Cerise, one of the hotel’s restaurants, is also an option for breakfast. Both serve freshly made plates of Lobster Omelette, Eggs Benedict, or whatever you prefer for your morning eggs, to accompany your coffee and buffet breakfast of Japanese and Western staples. With these two, there’s no need to worry about the first meal of the day. Other dining and drinking options include China Blue, Collage, Kazahana, and TwentyEight Bar & Lounge.
Conrad Tokyo also offers private check-in and check-out services, as well as concierge services for Executive Rooms. If you have time to spare, their 1/3/5 Program is definitely worth your time. Access to the indoor pool and fitness gym is also included in your stay. Plus, you can indulge in a few spa and wellness treatments if you want to splurge and pamper yourself.
While the Japanese already set a global standard in service, Conrad Tokyo takes it even further by ensuring every detail of your stay is handled with care. Once you experience it, you’ll find it’s definitely not just a place to sleep.
If you prefer to live more like a local and keep to a specific budget during your trip, Minn Kasai is a solid choice. The hotel provides contemporary and functional accommodations, accessible by a short walk from Kasai Station in Edogawa. It’s an ideal base for travelers who want to explore Tokyo without sacrificing convenience (as it gives you access to Tokyo’s most popular theme parks!)
The Standard Quadruple Room (around P3,900 per night) includes kitchenettes and in-room cooking facilities as well as complimentary WiFi and coin-operated laundry machines. They also have a convenient self-check-in system and cloud reception service, ideal for those who value flexible travel options and a quiet place to unwind between Tokyo activities.
Getting around
Tokyo operates one of the world’s most efficient public transportation networks, enabling locals and travelers a smooth journey across the city through its extensive rail, subway, and bus systems. At first glance, this network may seem complex, but you’ll soon discover that it’s a highly organized system that operates with near-perfect precision. All you have to do is take note of each line’s specific color.
As travelers, the major lines to remember are the JR Yamanote Line (green)—a loop that connects key stops like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Tokyo Stations—and the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line (orange), Hibiya Line (silver), and Toei Oedo Line (pink), among others. There are also quite a number of interchange stations, making transfers between lines easier without needing to exit stations. English signs are also available to direct passengers throughout.
To commute around Tokyo, it’s recommended to purchase rechargeable IC cards like Suica or Pasmo to simply tap in and out of train stations. These also work on buses and even at convenience stores, making getting around infinitely smoother. Buses operate as an alternative, connecting locations that trains don’t serve directly. They also provide clear stop locations through route maps. Most important to note is that most public transportation begins operating at 5 a.m. and ends service at 12 a.m., depending on the location.
Taxi and ride-hailing services (such as Uber), although pricier than other options, are available throughout the night to cater to those who need to travel at late hours—especially passengers with luggage. When traveling to and from the airport, try exploring ride-sharing services like NearMe for more affordable and comfortable alternatives on your way to Narita or Haneda Airports.
Best time to go
One of Tokyo’s biggest draws for travelers is its four distinct seasons throughout the year. For Filipinos, especially, this is an opportunity to experience seasons beyond the Philippines’ constant dry and wet spells.
Spring (March to May) is the most popular, when cherry blossoms bloom in the city and paint it a soft pink hue. On the other hand, autumn (September to November) brings people together with its beautiful red and orange leaves and perfect layering weather.
The summer months (June to August) bring hot weather and high humidity, but they also mark several festivals—including the world-famous Summer Sonic and Fuji Rock festivals—as well as firework displays. Winter (December to February) is generally mild compared to other parts of Japan, and the city sparkles with holiday events and once-a-year snowfall.
Travel during the late March to early April period and from mid-October through November for both smaller tourist numbers and improved climatic conditions. Hotel prices tend to increase during peak travel seasons, which include cherry blossom viewing and New Year celebrations, although he unique experience makes it worthwhile.
If you’re planning your trip around these peak seasons, check out ZIPAIR’s budget-friendly flights from Manila and Tokyo. It’s a great way to stretch your travel budget while still arriving in style.
Watch the Tokyo travel guide video below:
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