Tokyo — the first 12 Hours

Japan Diaries

Good morning from Tokyo 🌸

Landed at 6:45am and took a dreamy little recovery nap somewhere on the road into the city. It’s my first time in Japan. Honestly — it’s been forever since I’ve been in a country I truly don’t know much about.

No comfort zone.
No shortcuts.
No map in my head.

Except… my skincare tools are basically all Japanese. And my favorite sushi cravings? Also from here. So maybe I’ve been a little prepared all along.

We’re staying in Ginza, and the schedule for the weekend is gently planned — enough to feel anchored, yet free to detour à la minute ;)

I have no expectations. No idea what’s next, but I’ve done my part: learning about hojicha, researching the bons plans for Japanese skincare and Korean brands in Tokyo… and, of course, leaving room for the vintage shops finds.

First 12 hours in Tokyo!

A slow stroll through Tsukiji Fish Market, followed by stop at a local pottery shop.

Walk through Hamarikyū Garden — so lush.

Ramen for a lunch at Kyūshū Jangara in Ginza (vegan option!) This was my first ramen — I was told the matzo ball soup at Shalom Japan in Brooklyn doesn’t count, so voilà: for the first and real one, here in Tokyo.

Some shopping around Ginza, and a look at the new Tiffany store — beautifully blue, tall art piece itself to just look at.

Then a beauty + cosmetics treasure hunt at Don Quijote — enfin! Picked up a few (including this one) and some other Korean cosmetics pépites.

Now quick pause at our hotel — face mask, robe, a little bit mascara — before heading out for dinner.

Excited — and maybe a little giddy — to see what the evening brings.

xx,
Ea