Japan railway adventure: City-hopping on the Shinkansen

The time has finally come. You're standing at the airport, and your night flight to adventure begins! You close your eyes and can already see the rising sun pointing the way to Japan. Is it glowing red on the horizon? Then you're flying towards your destination country's flag come true. It's both fitting and beautiful – the perfect way to ring in a trip to Japan!

Time to wake up! The Land of the Rising Sun awaits! Tokyo's endless concrete jungle spreads like a sparkling sea in every direction. When you arrive at the airport, everything around you is foreign, new and exciting. You quickly exchange your voucher for your Japan Rail Pass, then board the train and head off on your own to your hotel.
Shake off your sleepiness with a stroll through the city and marvel at Tokyo's skyscrapers and its colourful yet noticeably organised hustle and bustle. And if you happen to come across a 'konbini', such as a 7-Eleven, throw your low expectations out the window! From rice balls to sandwiches, in these corner shops, you'll find an excellent preview of the culinary highlights that await you throughout your trip. If you'd prefer some classic ramen instead, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from, so stop by one and treat yourself to a bowl!

It's hard to grasp just how big Tokyo actually is. No wonder the city's filled with so many attractions! Your first stop is the world's largest pedestrian crossing, which you'll find in Shibuya after just a short ride. The motto here: 'don't stand still'. Wait for the signal, and before you know it, you'll have crossed the street with up to 3,000 other people. Right in the middle of modern Japan, you'll find yourself surrounded by oversized advertisements and towering skyscrapers. If you can't get enough, then keep wandering until you reach Harajuku and experience the full gamut of vibrant Japanese pop culture. After a sensory overload, it's time for some spiritual tranquillity – contrasts that are typical for Tokyo. Head to the Meiji Shrine right next to the lush Yoyogi Park and let it take you back in time to traditional Japan. Enjoy the radiant sunshine until you find yourself strolling through the neon lights of Shinjuku. Once there, you'll see one restaurant after another interspersed with a variety of bars boasting traditional wooden facades. So pop into one – or a few of them – and ring out the night with some yakitori, sake and the occasional beer. Kanpai!

Welcome to Japan's kitchen! Tsukiji Fish Market is the largest of its kind in the entire country. Even though the famous tuna auctions have moved to Toyosu, its outer areas with the old wholesale halls are still located in Ginza. Fresh fish for breakfast is a highlight in Japan, one which you can find in abundance in the 400 different restaurants! Once you've had some, take a walk to visit the Imperial Palace and get lost in the green oasis before diving into the oldest part of the city. In Asakusa, you'll be struck with the smell of incense as you're captivated by the Asakusa Kannon Temple (also known as Senso-ji) while not far away, Tokyo's iconic Sky Tree dominates the skyline. Venture past the many shops and restaurants surrounding the Tokyo Tower and onto its observation decks (optional, payable on site). Marvel at the sheer number of buildings as the evening sun bathes the skyscrapers of Nihonbashi in hues of glowing orange – a truly special sunset that you won't want to miss!