Tantalising Tokyo

Maybe it’s because of the close-to-550 Michelin-listed restaurants. Or perhaps it’s the doing of über-cool street fashion brands or ‘kawaii’ Japanese pop culture. Whatever it may be, Japan is attracting inbound visitors at a record high – an estimated 35 million in 2024 – and the popularity of its capital city continues to rise.

Of course, Tokyo is no stranger to the world through the realm of art: Wim Wenders’ Perfect Days, Sophia Coppola’s Lost in Translation and Haruki Murakami’s novels on Tokyoites have left their mark on the international collective consciousness in recent years. What makes the city attractive in reality, however, are the gems hidden among its maze-like multifaceted layers.

Much like the integrated levels of its subways and countless floors of its skyscrapers, kaleidoscopic micro-worlds unfold in every corner of this vast metropolis. Go to Ginza for fine dining and luxury discoveries, Shibuya and Meguro to scout the latest trends, and downtown bayside areas for new developments and up-and-coming art spots. As you explore, you’ll see it’s the world-class hospitality of Tokyoites that keeps this beautifully organised chaos buzzing, and fills the whole experience with surprises and discoveries beyond one’s expectations.

How To Get There

Fly Qantas
At Qantas, we believe the journey should be as exciting as the destination. Experience the Qantas difference with baggage, inflight entertainment, and food and drinks included on every flight*. Fly direct daily to Tokyo from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, with connections available from other Australian cities.

How To Get Around

Hire a Car with Avis
Enhance your Tokyo experience with the comfort and convenience of an Avis rental car – and find the places most visitors miss. Explore beyond the well-loved tourist spots to discover Tokyo’s hidden gems, from charming local neighbourhoods to scenic drives along Tokyo Bay. Enjoy a jaunt to the lush gardens at Showa Kinen Park and the tranquil hot springs in Ome. Or, if you have time, take a day trip to more iconic destinations, such as Hakone or the Japanese Alps. With Avis, you’ll experience Tokyo like never before.

Where To Stay

Conrad Tokyo
Located in the heart of Shiodome, just minutes from Ginza’s world-famous shopping, cultural and entertainment attractions, Conrad Tokyo is the perfect choice for business and leisure travellers seeking a contemporary sanctuary in the heart of Tokyo.

Where To Dine & Drink

Sushi Shin by Miyakawa at Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
Savour world-class sushi at Sushi Shin by Miyakawa, Tokyo’s first branch of Hokkaido’s Michelin three-star Sushi Miyakawa. Indulge in exquisite dishes crafted from the finest ingredients sourced daily from Hokkaido and the Toyosu market, and served on a 350-year-old Hinoki cypress counter with stunning views of Tokyo Skytree.

Virtù at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi
This destination bar, ranked 11th by Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024, blends Parisian elegance with Japanese craftsmanship. Ensconced within the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi, it offers exquisite cocktails in a refined ambiance with breathtaking cityscape panoramas – the ideal place for sophisticated travellers seeking an unforgettable night in Tokyo.

Pocket Concierge
Discover and reserve some of the most sought-after restaurants in Japan with Pocket Concierge, from exclusive addresses to foodie favourites and undiscovered gems. The restaurants on offer are carefully hand-selected by local epicurean experts, so you can feel like an insider in the world of dining in Japan.

Where To Escape

InterContinental-ANA Beppu Resort & Spa
ANA InterContinental® Beppu Resort & Spa is a lavish oasis of indulgence and self-discovery blending traditional Japanese elements with modern luxury. Nestled in Beppu’s scenic foothills, about a two-hour flight from bustling Tokyo, the resort features two elegantly designed public onsen hot springs, where you can soak in the mineral-rich waters as you enjoy panoramic vistas of lush mountains and Beppu Bay.

Let Amex Take You There

Elevate your experiences with a comprehensive offering of rewards and recommendations from destinations worldwide. Explore the world with American Express, and discover the best holidays made for you.

*Meals, beverages and entertainment offerings vary between flight times. Inflight entertainment varies by route and aircraft. The number of destinations and schedule is correct as of 5 September 2024, but is subject to change.

[Photo at top: f11photo/iStock]