icon
article-hero

Discover Tokyo And Its Surroundings With This 6D5N Muslim-Friendly Itinerary

avatar-name

Faruq Senin •  Dec 04, 2018

Tokyo is a city that we could visit over and over again. With so many neighbourhoods to explore, shopping and dining options, it’s hard to get bored of this bustling city. For our recent trip to Tokyo, we decided to try something different and head out of the city for day trips. There are many spots beyond Tokyo that’s worth heading to, and since we were there during autumn, it was the perfect opportunity to catch some gorgeous autumn foliage ?

Credit: giphy

So, here’s a 6D5N Muslim-friendly itinerary to exploring Tokyo’s surrounds that we’ve specially crafted for you!

P.S. Before you leave, plan your day trips with Klook get more savings!

[inlinewidget id=56322]

Arriving in Tokyo

If you’re arriving in Tokyo by flight, take note of your landing airport as it’s easier for you to plan your route. For the uninitiated, Tokyo has two main international airports – Narita and Haneda. We took a flight from Singapore and arrived at Narita around 3pm in the afternoon. We’d recommend taking an early morning or overnight flight to Tokyo as you can immediately start your day when you arrive!

Getting around

With so many train lines in and around Tokyo, the best way to get around is by using the SUICA card. SUICA is a reloadable prepaid card which you can use on most train lines and buses. Did you know that you can also use it for vending machines? ?

By booking the SUICA Card on Klook, you can conveniently collect the card at the arrival hall of Narita or Haneda Airport. And here’s a bonus, it’s already loaded with ¥1,500 plus a deposit of ¥500 which you can refund when you leave!

Day 1

Pick up your 4G WiFi device (15-30 min)

  • The first thing you’d want to get when you land is a 4G WiFi device. We know how important WiFi is – you’d need it for navigating, posting updates on social media or just anything!
  • Thankfully, with an unlimited 4G WiFi device from Klook, you won’t have to worry about not staying connected throughout Japan.
  • There’s no minimum rental period and no deposit required, so you can spend those extra yen on shopping ?

  • The battery can last up to 9 hours and can connect up to 14 devices, perfect if you’re in a large group!

Travel to the city (45 min)

  • Now that you’ve settled all your trip essentials, it’s time to make your way to the city! As Narita is located about 60km from Tokyo, the fastest way to travel downtown is via the Keisei Skyliner.
  • The Skyliner brings you straight to downtown Tokyo (Ueno/Nippori Station) in 40 minutes. From there, you can transfer to the local metro to get around.

  • The trains are so open and spacious and the best part is, you’re guaranteed a seat on the train so there’s no need to stand even during peak period ?
  • And here’s a bonus, the seats can swivel around so you can face your travel buddies while on the train!
  • Book your Keisei Skyliner tickets on Klook to get it at a discounted price! Plus, enjoy more discounts when you use these promo codes: TRAVELHHWT (SGD5 off), TRAVELHHWTMY (MYR15 off), TRAVELHHWTID (IDR50,000 off).

  • With a designated luggage storage space, you also won’t have to cramp with your luggage at your seat.
  • #HHWT Tip: Make sure you check the timetable for the express train timings as there are trains which stop at every station on the same platform too!
  • Arriving at Haneda Airport? Don’t worry! Get to Tokyo by using the Keikyu Line or Tokyo Monorail. Alternatively, you can also ride the airport limousine bus which you can conveniently book on Klook.

  • P.S. If you intend to do some sightseeing before checking in to your hotel, we’d recommend booking the Luggagent service on Klook, where you can just drop off your luggage and then receive it when you’re back at your hotel.
  • What’s great about this is that you can choose to store your bags from a couple of hours up to 2 nights!
  • Book on Klook from now till 31 Dec 2018 for a “Buy 1 Get 1” deal which is much cheaper than paying at the airport itself.

Explore the sights of Odaiba (1h)

  • Located on a manmade island in the Tokyo Bay, Odaiba is a popular shopping and entertainment district in Tokyo.
  • It’s home to many modern and futuristic buildings as well as interesting sights like the Rainbow Bridge and a replica of the Statue of Liberty!

Credit: In Love With Japan on Facebook

  • #HHWT Tip: Swing by Odaiba Seaside Park in the evening to watch colourful lights illuminate the Rainbow Bridge and admire the glittering skyline of Tokyo ?

Relive your childhood at Joypolis (2-3h)

  • Although it gets dark pretty early in Tokyo during autumn and winter (around 4.30pm) and the weather is cold, don’t let that get to you!
  • Odaiba has a wide range of activities you can do indoors such as Joypolis, Japan’s largest indoor theme park. Here’s where you can experience a range of thrilling simulator and virtual reality rides.

  • One of our favourite rides is Halfpipe where you’ll stand throughout the ride and go through a skateboard simulator.
  • Want to try bobsledding? Head over to Storm-G, where you get a chance to simulate being in a bobsled and navigating through a snowy terrain. Be prepared for some thrilling twists and turns!
  • All of their rides are interactive (think arcade games!) and you’ll be ranked based on your performance during the game, which makes it even more interesting ?

  • With a passport ticket which you can purchase on Klook, you can enjoy access to most of the rides in the theme park at a cheaper price than buying it at the counter. All you need to do is present the voucher to the staff at Joypolis and they’ll give you a ticket.
  • P.S. Don’t miss out on traditional arcade games like the claw machines too!
  • To get to Joypolis, take the Yurikamome Line and alight at Odaiba-Kaihinkoen Station or the Rinkai Line to Tokyo Teleport Station.

Watch a Gundam show (10 min)

  • Calling all Gundam fans! You’ll love the latest attraction in Odaiba, a life-size Gundam which is 19.7 metres tall.
  • This newest version of Gundam, the unicorn, will transform 4 times during the day and turn into “destroy” mode where it’ll expand and emit a pink glow. These are the showtimes: 11am, 1pm, 3pm, 5pm

  • But that’s not all, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, there’ll be a night performance every half-hour. Perfect if you want to catch snippets of the anime.
  • After catching the show, head over to the 7th floor of Diver City Tokyo (located just behind Gundam) and head to The Gundam Base. You’ll find all sorts of Gundam merchandise here – from posters to models and clothes!

Dinner at Sojibo (1-2h)

  • After a packed first day, refuel at Sojibo, located on the 6th floor of Diver City. This halal eatery serves a variety of soba dishes, tempura and rice bowls.

  • We really enjoyed the Duck and Leek Soba (¥1080) which has a flavourful broth and chewy duck slices. Their Chicken Cutlet Don was so yummy too ?
  • Expect to spend around ¥1,000-¥1,500 while you’re here.
  • Opening hours: 11am – 11pm daily
  • Halal status: Halal-certified food, alcohol is served in establishment

Shopping at Diver City (1-2h)

  • After you’re done filling your tummy, don’t miss out on the variety of shopping options at Diver City. The mall has seven floors worth of retail shops, dining and entertainment options.
  • You can find international fashion brands like ZARA, Uniqlo, H&M here and even unique Japanese souvenir stores!
  • For families with young kids, don’t worry as there are family-friendly facilities like a diaper-changing room and shops selling kids clothes and accessories.

Check in to your accommodation

  • It’s finally time to check in to your accommodation after a long day! We chose to stay around Shinjuku as it’s really accessible to train lines and many shopping places.
  • We stayed at APA Hotel Shinjuku-Gyoemmae and the nightly rate is around SGD145 for a Double Room and SGD220 for a Twin Room.
  • Do note that accommodation around Shinjuku is a tad expensive and rooms can be a little small.
  • Alternatively, you can also choose to stay in Shibuya, Tokyo Station area or Ginza. For cheaper alternatives, the area around Ueno and Asakusa is your best bet!

Day 2

Go on a Mt Fuji and Hakone Day Tour (2h 30min)

  • Start your day on a tour to visit Japan’s tallest and most beautiful mountain, Mt Fuji! Located just about 2 hours away from Tokyo, it’s possible to do a day trip to Mt Fuji and return to Tokyo in the evening.
  • If it’s your first time to Mt Fuji, you’d probably want to visit many gorgeous sights around Mt Fuji so we’d recommend booking a tour through Klook as it takes quite some time and a bit of a hassle to travel to those sights by public transport.
  • Plus, with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, you’ll learn more about the sights you’re visiting instead of merely admiring them.
  • We loved how the tour brought us to sights that we would have not known otherwise!

Mt Fuji 5th Station (1h)

  • Your first stop on this tour is the Mt Fuji 5th There are a total of 10 stations at Mt Fuji, but the 5th station is the highest accessible point by bus, at 2300m.
  • The total height of Mt Fuji is 3776m so this is a pretty good spot to catch a glimpse of the peak of Mt Fuji.

  • We were very lucky that the weather was good during our visit and needless to say, the view of Mt Fuji simply took our breaths away ? If you’re planning a visit here, make sure you check the weather forecast before booking your tour!
  • Do note that the 5th stop is not always opened during winter as the roads might be covered in snow or ice.
  • #HHWT Tip: Head to the lower carpark of the 5th station to get a good view of Mt Fuji.

Lake Kawaguchi (1h)

  • The tour will make a stop for lunch around Lake Kawaguchi, one of the five lakes at the base of Mt Fuji 1000m above sea level.
  • Kawaguchi is also one of the best places to get a good view of Mt Fuji and while we were there, we got to experience the gorgeous autumn foliage too!

  • The lunch provided by the tour had sashimi and hoto, a stew consisting of flat udon noodles and vegetables in miso soup. Hoto is a local dish from the Yamanashi Prefecture where Mt Fuji is located.
  • We personally checked with the eatery that no alcohol or meat was used in the meal but we advise you to dine at your own discretion!
  • Alternatively, you can also opt out from the meal and head to Alladin Indo Restaurant, a halal eatery located around Kawaguchi as well.

Hop on a cruise at Lake Ashi (30min)

  • After lunch, the tour will travel more than an hour to Hakone, a resort town known for its hot springs and natural beauty.
  • One of the most beautiful spots here is Lake Ashi, a caldera lake formed after a volcanic eruption more than 3000 years ago.

  • The best way to soak in the beauty of Lake Ashi is by hopping on a cruise, which is included in the tour as well!
  • If you’re lucky enough and the clouds aren’t covering the skies, you might be able to spot Mt Fuji from here too.

Ride a ropeway up Mt Komagatake (1h)

  • After the cruise, the tour will bring you up Mt Komagatake, where you’ll get panoramic views of Mt Fuji and Lake Ashi. The ropeway will take around 7 minutes to reach the top of the mountain which is 1357m above sea level.
  • Did you know that many Japanese people consider the peak of Komatagake a sacred spot as they believe that the mountain is a manifestation of a Shinto God spirit?

  • After you alight from the ropeway, you’ll be greeted with this magical view. On a clear day, you’d not only get to see Lake Ashi and Mt Fuji, but also the sea ?

  • If you’re up for a challenge, walk all the way to the top of the mountain and you’ll find the Mototsumiya Shrine. The view here is even more breathtaking and it makes for a picturesque photo spot.
  • #HHWT Tip: If you’re here near sunset, make sure you check the timings of the ropeway as it only operates till 4.50pm.

Dinner at Halal Tendon Itsuki (1-2h)

  • After the fulfilling tour, it’s time for dinner! Head over to Halal Tendon Itsuki, Tokyo’s first halal tendon (tempura bowl) bar in Ginza.
  • As the eatery is really small, you can watch the Chef fry the tempura right in front of you, and this is as good as it gets!

  • We had their Special Tendon which had snow crab tempura for just ¥1500, which is pretty affordable in the Ginza area. Their other tendons are cheaper too, starting from ¥1000.
  • This was hands-down one of the best tempuras we’ve ever tasted! The tempura batter was crispy and flavourful but yet light on the palate. We couldn’t get enough of the tempura sauce too ?
  • Halal status: Halal-certified
  • Directions: Halal Tendon Itsuki is located on the 2nd floor of Ginza-INZ building, just minutes away from Ginza station.

Day 3

Travel to Nikko (2h)

  • Start your day bright and early; it’s time to visit Nikko in Tochigi prefecture, a town known for its scenic nature and beautiful autumn colours.
  • As it takes around 2-3 hours to travel from Tokyo to Nikko, we recommend setting off really early, so you can cover the important sights before nightfall.

  • Get the Nikko Pass All Area on Klook to travel around the town easily. The pass covers a round trip ticket from Tobu Asakusa (in Tokyo) to Shimo-imachi Station, where you’ll also get access to Nikko trains and buses.
  • Do note that the pass does not cover the Limited Express trains, so you’ll have to buy a separate ticket for reserved seating. But we recommend taking the Limited Express service as it takes 50 minutes lesser than taking a local train service. Plus, with the Nikko Pass, you’re able to get a discount on the fare for reserved seats!
  • P.S. Collect the pass from the TOBU Tourist Information Centre (open 7.20am-7pm) before you head to Nikko.

  • As buses are the only form of public transport in Nikko, using the pass is a better option so you don’t have to pay separately for each bus ride.
  • The pass also includes free entry or discounts so several attractions ?
  • Staying in Nikko for more than a day? No need to worry as the pass is valid for 4 days.
  • P.S. Before you start exploring Nikko, make sure you grab a copy of the Nikko Guide Map for Muslims at the Tobu Nikko Station. It’ll give you the Muslim-friendly dining options and prayer spaces around Nikko!

Admire the view at Akechidaira (1h)

  • Once in Nikko, head over to one of the attractions covered in the Nikko Pass, the Akechidaira Ropeway.
  • Akechidaira has one of the best views of Nikko, and it can get really crowded during autumn when it offers amazing views of fall foliage from the top.

  • Even though we missed the peak of autumn by just a week, the view from the top of Akechidaira still blew us away. The view is also beautiful in winter when the snow covers the mountains and gives it a coat of white.
  • We could also spot Nikko’s famous waterfall, the 100-metre Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji, a scenic lake in Nikko ☺️

  • To get here, take the bus for Chuzenji or Yumoto Onsen from Tobu Nikko Station to the ropeway. The journey takes around 45 minutes.
  • #HHWT Tip: Don’t forget to check the bus schedules to help you plan your day better, as bus timings are limited to 2-3 per hour. There are copies of the bus timetable at Tobu Nikko station too!

Take a sightseeing cruise around Lake Chuzenji (1h)

  • Another activity that’s covered in the Nikko Pass is a sightseeing cruise around Lake Chuzenji.
  • Located on the foot of Mt Nankai, Lake Chuzenji was created after the volcano erupted 20 thousand years ago, giving it its natural beauty ?
  • P.S. Do note that the ferry leaves every hour from Chuzenji Boat Station and it only operates from 9.30am – 3.30pm (only from 14 Apr – 30 Nov)

  • But even if you don’t take the cruise, it’s nice to spend some time by the lake to take in its beauty.
  • The lake is also a sight to behold in autumn. We managed to catch some remaining autumn foliage by the lake and it looked really pretty against the backdrop of the lake.

Visit Nikko’s World Heritage Temples (2h)

  • After admiring Nikko’s natural beauty, it’s time to discover its cultural gems as well. Did you know that Nikko is also home to several shrines and temples which have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites?
  • If you only have time for one shrine, head straight to Tosho-gu. This is where the founder of Japan’s Tokugawa Shogunate (ruled Japan from 1600-1868), Tokugawa Ieyasu had been laid to rest.

Credit: @devora_7 on Instagram

  • Tosho-gu is known for its lavish decorations which are unseen in many temples elsewhere in Japan, with many wood carvings and gold leaf decorations.
  • Do note that the admission fee for Tosho-gu is not included in the Nikko Pass, so you’ll have to purchase a separate ticket.
  • #HHWT Tip: Tosho-gu closes at 4pm and it gets really crowded near closing time, so do plan an early visit!

Visit the iconic Shinkyo Bridge (30 min)

  • Before leaving Nikko, you have to make a stop at its iconic Shinkyo Bridge. Known as “sacred bridge,” it’s one of Japan’s three finest bridges and was built in 1636.
  • Today, the bridge is the landmark that welcomes travellers to Nikko’s shrines.

  • With the lush autumn foliage and beautiful river as the bridge’s backdrop, admiring the bridge from a distance will feel as though you’re staring at a gorgeous painting ?
  • If you’d like, you can get on the bridge too for a small fee of ¥300, but it’s only open till 5pm (Apr – Sep) and 4pm (Oct – Mar).

Shop for souvenirs and local snacks (30 min)

  • If you have some time to spare while waiting for your train back to Tokyo, you can do some shopping and sample local snacks at the shops outside Tobu Nikko Station.

  • We discovered a local snack, Yuba Manju - red bean paste wrapped in tofu skin and then deep-friend and lightly salted. It was really yummy and interesting. Definitely worth a try if you’re in Nikko! We’ve checked with the shop owners and confirmed that they don’t use any alcohol or meat products in the snack, but do dine at your own discretion.
  • P.S. Need to do your prayers? Inform the staff at Tobu Nikko Station and head over to the prayer room on the second floor of the station ☺️ Do note that it’s only opened from 9am – 4.30pm.

Dinner at CoCo Ichibanya Curry House (1-2h)

  • Once you’re back in Tokyo, treat yourself to some delicious halal Japanese curry. The best place to try this is none other than CoCo Ichibanya Curry House, which has 2 halal outlets in Tokyo – Akihabara and Shinjuku Kabukicho. We visited the Shinjuku outlet as it was nearer to our hotel.
  • It’s quite spacious and there were a few families dining there.

  • We were so hungry that we ordered the Chicken Tender Cutlet Curry with Cheese (¥1170) plus add-ons (starting from ¥110).

  • Needless to say, our meal at CoCo Ichibanya left us thoroughly satisfied. The curry was what we imagined it to be – flavourful and a little sweet. The cheese paired perfectly with the curry and meat ?
  • Halal status: Halal-certified
  • Directions: From JR Shinjuku Station, walk towards Kabukicho and past the red gate till you see TOHO Cinemas, where the large figure of Godzilla’s at. The eatery is located at B1 of the next building.

[inlinewidget id=56324]

Day 4

Spend a fun morning at Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise (4-5h)

  • Start your fourth day by travelling to Japan’s second largest city, Yokohama. It takes only about 30-45 minutes to get from Tokyo to Yokohama, depending on which part of Tokyo you’re from.
  • The best part is, you don’t need any tickets to special trains to get to Yokohama. It’s accessible by local subway lines from Tokyo.
  • Now, on to the first stop of the day: Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise!

  • This amusement park consists of 4 different zones including one of Japan’s top aquariums, Aqua Museum, which we visited first.
  • There are separate admission fees for the different zones but if you want access to everything, we recommend buying the ticket on Klook as it’s cheaper than buying it on the spot. It’s also hassle-free as you’d only need to show your Klook voucher to the counter staff and they’ll hand you a wristband ?

  • We were really impressed with the wide variety of sea creatures on display at the Aqua Museum – from the whale shark to stingrays, seals, sea walruses, sea turtles and more.

  • Done with the Aqua Museum and looking for something thrilling? Head over to Pleasure Land, another zone which you can access with your ticket.
  • There are 15 exciting rides, including Blue Fall, a 107m high vertical drop and the Surf Coaster, a roller coaster which loops out over the water into the Yokohama Bay ?
  • Not a fan of thrilling rides? Take a pick from family-friendly rides like the Aqua Ride II and carousel instead.

Credit: Klook

  • Hakkeijima Sea Paradise is great if you’re travelling with children, as it’s a great learning experience for them.
  • We recommend spending at least half a day here to fully experience the best of the amusement park!
  • Directions: To get here, take the Yokohama Seaside Line and alight at Hakkeijima Station.

Hang out at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse (1-2h)

  • After a fun day at the amusement park, head to the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, a hipster shopping and dining area where the locals come to hang out on weekends.
  • The 2 complexes which make up the area used to be a customs inspection house for the Yokohama port. Now, they are iconic landmarks of Yokohama due to their unique industrial architecture.

  • The Red Brick Warehouse also holds many events throughout the year, with numerous concerts in summer and even turns into a skating rink in winter!
  • We were lucky to be greeted with a taiko drum performance as there was an ongoing festival. It’s really great to soak in the festival atmosphere with the locals. Do check their events calendar here to find out the upcoming festivals.

  • If you’re looking for quirky souvenirs and knick-knacks to bring back home, this is the place to go. There are lots of interesting items from creative badges to Japanese food replicas, scarves, teacups and more ?
  • Not to mention that the Red Brick Warehouse is also perfect if you’re looking to spice up your Instagram feed. You can’t go wrong with its photogenic red walls and alleys!

Do your prayers at Yokohama World Porters (30min)

  • If you need to do your prayers while in Yokohama, head over to Yokohama World Porters, a shopping mall just minutes away from the Red Brick Warehouse.
  • The prayer room is well-equipped with prayer mats, compass and slippers. Do remember to bring your own prayer garments! Plus, there’s even a dedicated wudhu area so you don’t have to worry about awkwardly washing your feet in the toilet ?

  • As you’d need a passcode to enter the prayer room, do inform the staff at the shopping mall that you’d like to do your prayers.

Learn all about instant noodles at Cup Noodles Museum (1-2h)

  • Fans of instant noodles, this one’s for you! The Cup Noodles Museum is where you can learn all about the history of instant noodles.
  • Did you know that the inventor of instant noodles, Momofuku Ando, created instant noodles in post-war Japan so that people would have enough food to eat?
  • It’s so interesting to see all the different cup noodles on display from the first one in 1958 all the way to now.

  • You can also try your hand at making your own cup noodles at the Cup Noodles Factory, for a small fee of ¥300.

  • Do note that the ingredients are not halal-certified but it’s a great experience to see what goes into making cup noodles. Perhaps you could try making the cup noodles and then give it to a non-Muslim friend? Do try it at your own discretion!

Admire Yokohama’s skyline from Cosmo Clock 21 (1-2h)

  • Just opposite Cup Noodles Museum, you’ll find a large Ferris wheel with a clock in the middle, called the Cosmo Clock 21.
  • At 112.5m, this structure is one of Yokohama’s landmarks and it once used to be the world’s tallest Ferris wheel!

  • What’s special about the Cosmo Clock is its nightly illumination. You’ll be treated to a firework-like display where the wheel breaks out into a burst of colours.
  • P.S. If you’re coming here on a weekend, be prepared to wait in line for around 45 minutes.

Dinner at Halal Minato (1-2h)

  • Looking for a hearty meal to end the night? Halal Minato’s got you covered!
  • This newly-opened eatery is actually the second branch of Osaka’s Matsuri Restaurant, known for their festival-style Japanese food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

  • What’s different about Minato is that they serve Yokohoma specialities too. One dish you need to try here is their Braised Beef (¥1050), which you can choose to have a la carte or with rice, or in a porridge form. This is probably the only place in Japan where you can get a halal version of this!

  • It was an acquired taste but we really grew to love the tender and fatty bits of the beef, which just melted in our mouths ?
  • Finish off your meal with an authentic Japanese dessert, Daifuku mochi where you can choose to have matcha, strawberry or mango flavours.
  • #HHWT Tip: There’s also a small prayer room here if you need to do your prayers.
  • Halal status: Halal ingredients used, alcohol served in establishment

Day 5

Travel to Kawagoe (1h)

  • It’s time for another day trip out of Tokyo and this time, you’ll be heading to Kawagoe, located in Saitama prefecture, just around 30 minutes away from central Tokyo.
  • Kawagoe’s where you’ll be able to step into the past as this quaint town has preserved the architecture of Japan in the Edo period.

Credit: Klook

Walk through Kurazukuri St and Toki no Kane (2h)

  • Once you arrive in Kawagoe, head straight to Kurazukuri St, Kawagoe’s Warehouse district which is full of clay-walled warehouse-styled buildings.
  • Take a nostalgic walk down the street and look for Toki no Kane. This 3-storey bell tower was built in 1636 and then rebuilt after it was destroyed in the Kawagoe Great Fire in 1894.

Credit: @therealepicjoseph on Instagram

  • The bell chimes 4 times a day, and it was actually built to help citizens keep track of time, as the lord of Kawagoe was very strict with time.

Stop by Candy Alley (1h)

  • If you have a sweet tooth, you’d want to stop by Candy Alley (Kashiya Yokocho). This traditional and narrow alley is lined with dozens of candy stores.
  • You can get various candies, rice crackers, ice cream and cakes here, plus small toys and souvenirs which you can bring back home.

  • As Kawagoe produces sweet potato, don’t forget to try the many sweet potato snacks sold along the street. One of the must-try snacks is Imo Koi – sweet potato and red bean wrapped in mochi and yam flour.
  • Do note that none of the candy stalls are halal-certified so do remember to check the ingredients with the stall owners!

Lunch at Kousushi (1-2h)

  • After a morning of sightseeing, refuel with a meal at Kousushi, Kawagoe’s first halal restaurant.
  • Choose from various halal Japanese cuisine here like sushi, sashimi and bento sets but one dish you must try is Unagi (eel), a speciality in Kawagoe.
  • Perfectly grilled and slathered with their special halal sauce and served with rice, you’d definitely be craving for more!

Credit: @halalgourmetjapan on Instagram

  • Do remember to make a reservation at least a day in advance to enjoy your halal unagi. Contact No: +81 49-224-0333
  • P.S. There’s a prayer room here complete with prayer mats and garments too.
  • Halal status: Halal ingredients used

Visit Kita-in Temple (2h)

  • Go on a cultural immersion at Kita-in, one of Kawagoe’s most important religious sites. It’s the head temple of the Buddhist Tendai sect of Japan’s Kanto region.
  • Here’s an interesting fact: Kita-in’s halls are the only remaining buildings that’s left of the former Edo Castle after a great fire and then earthquake wiped most of them out.

Credit: @solarmodule67 on Instagram

  • Another highlight of Kita-in is the Gohyaku Rakan statues - over 500 statues of Buddha’ disciples with different facial expressions. This is definitely an eye-opening experience!
  • #HHWT Tip: Travel to different sites around Kawagoe using the Koedo Loop Bus which is priced at just ¥300 for a 1-day free pass.

Dinner at Monokichi Ikebukuro (1-2h)

  • With the Seibu Rail Pass, you can travel back to Tokyo without paying any extra fees. And you can choose to alight at Ikebukuro, Seibu Shinjuku or Takadanobaba stations, so it’s really convenient!
  • If you’d like to try a halal Kyoto style Kaiseki (Japanese course meal), head to Monokichi near Ikebukuro Station.

Credit: @sanga.12.masayo on Instagram

  • Monokichi’s dinner kaiseki sets (from ¥7560) include a range of Japanese cuisines like fish and beef shabu-shabu, tempura, grilled fish, Japanese sweets and more.
  • If you’re here for lunch, you can also get their lunch set from ¥2700.
  • P.S. Do reserve 5 days in advance so the restaurant can prepare a halal meal for you.
  • Halal status: Halal ingredients used, alcohol not served in establishment

Day 6

Admire Tokyo’s skyline at Tokyo Skytree (2h)

  • It’s your last day in Tokyo ? Start off with a visit to the world’s tallest tower, Tokyo Skytree! At 634m, this iconic Tokyo landmark offers a panoramic view of Tokyo’s skyline. Try to spot the skyscrapers of Shinjuku from here!
  • On a clear day, you might be even be able to spot Mt Fuji.

  • Don’t forget to give the glass deck a try too, though if you’re afraid of heights, you might want to give this a miss ?
  • Before you leave the skytree, head over to the shops at the lobby to get yourself some Tokyo Skytree-themed merchandise.

Lunch at Origami Asakusa (1-2h)

  • After soaking in that awesome view at the Tokyo Skytree, take a train to Asakusa for lunch at Origami.
  • Opened early this year, Origami Asakusa serves halal Washoku (Japanese authentic cuisine).
  • What we loved about the restaurant was its beautifully decorated Japanese-themed interior ?

  • We tried their Origami Set (¥1500) which was pretty interesting as we could grill beef cutlet by ourselves.
  • We also had their Special Domestic Beef Shabu-Shabu Set (¥5000) which was a full course meal including sashimi appetisers and dessert.

  • #HHWT Tip: Need to do your prayers? Don’t worry! Asakusa has a prayer room equipped with prayer mats, garments and even a wudhu area.
  • Halal status: Halal-certified

Wear a kimono at Asakusa (2-3h)

  • If there’s one thing you can’t leave Japan without trying, it’s wearing a kimono, and where better to try that than the traditional streets of Asakusa in Tokyo?
  • We opted to rent our kimono from Hana Kimono Rental through Klook as it’s conveniently located just outside exit A4 of Asakusa subway station. Since it might be confusing to navigate Asakusa’s streets due to their many alleys, this location is perfect for travellers.

  • Hana Kimono has a wide variety of kimono patterns and colours to suit your personal taste and the staff is helpful in recommending to you the kimono that’s perfect for you.
  • Once you’ve chosen your kimono, 2 of their staff would attend to you and ensure that you’re wearing the kimono properly, so you don’t have to worry about coming in without any knowledge of the Japanese dress.
  • It’s really an eye-opening experience as there are many layers and intricacies that goes into wearing a kimono.
  • Once used every day by the Japanese, the kimono is now only used during special occasions like weddings and tea ceremonies.

  • After you’re all dressed up in a kimono, head over to the streets of Asakusa and snap some pictures with the traditional architecture.
  • We recommend heading to Kaminarimon and Hozomon gates or the Senso-ji Temple, which are icons of Asakusa. There will be a lot of people in their kimono and snapping pictures too, and you might have to wait a while for the perfect shot. But that’s also part of the fun!

Travel to Narita/Haneda Airport (45min)

  • It’s finally time to say goodbye to Tokyo ? If you’re heading to Narita Airport, the Keisei Skyliner is your fastest option to the airport; it’s only a 40 minutes ride from Ueno/Nippori Station (which is just a short train ride from Asakusa).
  • #HHWT Tip:Book your Keisei Skyliner ticket on Klook at a discounted price.

  • If you’re going to Haneda Airport, take the Asakusa Line all the way from Asakusa to the airport. It’s really convenient!
  • We also used the Luggagent service on Klook after checking out of our hotel in the morning, so we didn’t need to return to our hotel to collect our bags. For a huge city like Tokyo, this service is really convenient as you can avoid the hassle of travelling around with your luggage, if you’re planning on sightseeing for a whole day before your flight.

  • It’s also great as you can just leave your luggage at the hotel concierge, inform the Luggagent staff through email and they will update you once your luggage has been picked up.
  • Once you’re at the airport, just look for the baggage pickup service counter at the Departure Hall and you’re all set!
  • The best part is, this service is available for both Narita and Haneda airports, which makes it even more convenient.

Dinner at Tentei (1-2h)

  • Fill your tummy before your flight with the variety of Muslim-friendly options at Narita Airport.
  • We had some yummy tendon and soba noodles at Tentei. The servings were pretty generous, and we were left thoroughly satisfied after the meal!
  • Tentei is located on the 4th floor of Narita Terminal 2 before entering the transit area.
  • Halal status: Halal-certified

  • Here are other halal options at Narita Airport: Terminal 1 - Kineyamugimaru (5F, Departure Hall, Before immigration), Terminal 2 - La Toque (4F, Departure Hall, Before immigration)
  • If you’re departing from Haneda Airport, head over to these Muslim-friendly eateries: Kebab Kobo, Mrs Istanbul, Saryo Itoken.

Prayers before your flight (30min)

  • Need to do your prayers before your flight? Don’t worry as both Narita and Haneda Airport have prayer rooms. These are the multi-faith prayer rooms, shared with other travellers.
  • Do bring your own prayer mats, garments and compass.

  • Some of them are equipped with a wudhu area but for those that are not, you might need to head to the nearest toilet to do your wudhu.
  • There are signs indicating the directions to prayer rooms but if you’re still unsure, you can just ask the airport customer service for directions.

[inlinewidget id=56322]

That concludes your 6D5N itinerary to exploring Tokyo and its surroundings. With so many breathtaking sights and exciting attractions near Tokyo, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy them! Plus, with day trips and travel passes offered on Klook, you can get discounts and travel hassle-free. So, start planning your trip to explore beyond Tokyo now ?

This article is brought to you by Klook.