Exploring Tokyo with Sakura Hotel Jimbocho
Exploring Tokyo with Sakura Hotel Jimbocho: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Sights, Eats, and Travel Tips
Tokyo is a dazzling city, brimming with rich history, cutting-edge technology, and incredible food. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Sakura Hotel Jimbocho is the perfect base to experience the city’s magic. Situated in the heart of Tokyo, it offers easy access to major attractions, convenient public transport, and a comfortable, budget-friendly atmosphere for travelers. In this blog, we’ll show you how to get to the hostel from the airport, highlight must-see attractions nearby, recommend top restaurants, and offer useful travel tips to ensure your Tokyo experience is smooth and memorable.
How to Get to Sakura Hotel Jimbocho from the Airport
Getting from either of Tokyo's two major airports to Sakura Hotel Jimbocho is easy and affordable. Whether you arrive at Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND), you'll have a range of options to suit your travel preferences.
From Narita International Airport (NRT)
- Take the Narita Express (N'EX):
Board the Narita Express from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour.
At Tokyo Station, transfer to the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line (red line) and travel for 3 stops to Jimbocho Station.
From Jimbocho Station, it’s just a short 5-minute walk to the hostel.
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours
Cost: ¥1,500 (Narita Express) + ¥200 (subway)
From Haneda Airport (HND)
- Take the Keikyu Line:
Ride the Keikyu Line from Haneda Airport to Shinagawa Station (about 20 minutes).
From Shinagawa Station, transfer to the JR Yamanote Line or the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Jimbocho Station.
Travel Time: 40–50 minutes
Cost: ¥600–¥800
Once you arrive at Jimbocho Station, take Exit A7 and walk a mere 5 minutes to the hostel. You’ll be greeted by the warm and inviting atmosphere of Sakura Hotel Jimbocho, ready to kick off your Tokyo adventure.
Must-See Attractions Near Sakura Hotel Jimbocho
Sakura Hotel Jimbocho is conveniently located close to several famous attractions that will allow you to explore Tokyo’s culture and history at your own pace. Here are some top places you won’t want to miss:
1. The Imperial Palace & East Gardens
The iconic Tokyo Imperial Palace, the residence of Japan's Imperial Family, is located just a short walk from the hostel. While the inner palace grounds are not open to the public, the East Gardens offer a beautiful space for a peaceful walk through meticulously landscaped gardens and historical ruins.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays and Fridays)
- Entry Fee: Free
2. Tokyo National Museum (Ueno)
Explore the vast history and culture of Japan at the Tokyo National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art, samurai armor, ancient ceramics, and more. Located in Ueno, this museum is one of the largest and oldest in Japan.
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Entry Fee: ¥1,000
3. Akihabara: Electric Town
If you’re a fan of electronics, anime, or video games, Akihabara is a must-visit district. Known as Electric Town, it’s a paradise for tech enthusiasts and a must-see for any anime lover. From giant electronic stores to quirky themed cafés, Akihabara is full of surprises.
- Entry Fee: Free (but you’ll likely end up shopping!)
- Distance from Jimbocho: 3 stops on the Hibiya Line from Jimbocho Station.
Highly Recommended Restaurants and Foods Near Sakura Hotel Jimbocho
Tokyo is a haven for food lovers, and the area around Sakura Hotel Jimbocho offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Japanese dishes to modern fusion cuisine. Here are some top picks for restaurants and dishes to try:
1. Hidakaya (Affordable Ramen)
For a budget-friendly yet satisfying meal, Hidakaya is a popular ramen chain located near Jimbocho Station. Known for its quick service and delicious bowls of Shoyu Ramen, it’s a great spot to fuel up during your busy sightseeing day.
- Must-Try Dish: Shoyu Ramen (Soy sauce-based) or Gyoza (dumplings)
- Price Range: ¥500–¥800
2. Yasukuni Shrine's Tonkatsu (Yushin)
For a taste of crispy, breaded tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet), head to Yushin, a well-known restaurant near the historic Yasukuni Shrine. The tonkatsu is served with a side of cabbage and rice, making it a comforting and fulfilling meal.
- Must-Try Dish: Tonkatsu Set Meal
- Price Range: ¥1,000–¥1,500
3. Sukiyabashi Jiro (Michelin Star Sushi)
For a once-in-a-lifetime sushi experience, Sukiyabashi Jiro in Ginza is a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant that has made headlines for its world-class sushi. Reservations are required, so plan ahead.
- Must-Try Dish: Omakase (Chef’s selection of sushi)
- Price Range: ¥30,000 and up (Expensive but worth it!)
4. Kanda Yabu Soba (Traditional Soba)
Enjoy traditional soba noodles at Kanda Yabu Soba, a restaurant with a history dating back over a century. Their signature dish is the tempura soba, which features crispy tempura shrimp served over cold or hot soba noodles.
- Must-Try Dish: Tempura Soba
- Price Range: ¥1,500–¥2,000
Tips for Making the Most of Your Tokyo Trip
Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: While many people in Tokyo speak English, learning a few essential Japanese phrases can go a long way in making your experience more enjoyable. For example, “Arigato gozaimasu” (Thank you very much) and “Sumimasen” (Excuse me / I’m sorry) are always appreciated.
Get a Suica or Pasmo Card: These rechargeable smart cards can be used for public transport (subway, trains, and buses) and in convenience stores. It’s a quick and convenient way to get around without the hassle of buying tickets every time.
Cash is King: While credit cards are widely accepted, some smaller shops, restaurants, and street vendors may prefer cash. Be sure to carry enough yen with you, as ATMs may not always accept foreign cards.
Stay Hydrated: Tokyo can be hot and humid, especially in the summer months. Always carry a bottle of water with you, and take breaks to cool off in the many parks and rest areas around the city.
Pack Light: Tokyo is a city that encourages mobility. Packing light will make it easier for you to move around, especially when taking public transportation. Many train stations in Tokyo have escalators and elevators, but some smaller ones may not.
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