PlanetSKI in Tokyo – Day Three

13th February 2025

PlanetSKI ends its 3-day stay in Tokyo as we move between the main ski areas of Japan. There is no city on earth quite like Tokyo. Period. NEW

Our Tokyo travels continue and after the full on Day One and Day Two we decided to slow things down a bit as we prepared to head north to the ski fields on the north island of Hokkaido.

Some strolling around one of the market areas was on the cards.

We travelled by metro, which we had finally begun to master.

Tokyo, Japan. Image © PlanetSKI

We headed to Shimo-Kitazawa, an area full of vintage clothes shops where it felt more like San Francisco in the 1960s than Tokyo in 2025.

Tokyo, Japan. Image © PlanetSKI

The rack of speakers inside this shop pumping out 60s psychedelic music would have done the Grateful Dead proud.

Tokyo, Japan. Image © PlanetSKI

One just looked around and could only be in one place.

Tokyo, Japan. Image © PlanetSKI

Next we headed for the Senso-Ji area and caught a sight of yesterday’s highlight, the Tokyo Sky Tree.

Tokyo, Japan. Image © PlanetSKI

The area had a market, and what an entrance – the Kaminari-mon.

The lantern weighs in at 670kgs and on either side are Fujin, the god of wind, and Raijin, the god of thunder.

Tokyo, Japan. Image © PlanetSKI

The market beyond was touristy, but no matter.

Tourists have been coming here for centuries.

Tokyo, Japan. Image © PlanetSKI

While at the far end a real treat: Senso Ji itself.

Tokyo, Japan. Image © PlanetSKI

And if you pass through the Nakamise-mon street head to this bar – Hi Condition.

Tokyo, Japan. Image © PlanetSKI

Six people fit inside is comfortable, and any more is a squash.

We made some new friends

Tokyo, Japan. Image © PlanetSKI

And then, yet again, it was back to Shibuya and the crossing we had become so familiar with from the station to our accommodation.

Tokyo, Japan. Image © PlanetSKI

This time the city’s petrol heads were in the house.

Tokyo, Japan. Image © PlanetSKI

Driving in Tokyo is possible, but not for the faint-hearted.

A number of extraordinary expressways make driving in and out relatively easy.

Tokyo, Japan. Image © PlanetSKI

Getting to the Haneda airport from the heart of the centre is a mere 30-minutes.

It was time to say goodbye to Tokyo, and what a drive out it was as memories of the past three days came flooding back as we departed this most wonderful of cities.

Tokyo, Japan. Image © PlanetSKI

Our next mode of transport is about to take us to the north island of Hokkaido.

If you want some practical advice to Tokyo then Andy Knights from Ski Safari is the man to ask as he has spent much time there and advises on Tokyo itineraries:

“From my time in Tokyo, I’ve got a few personal recommendations to help you get the most out of a visit.

First up, a trip to the Senso-ji Shrine in Asakusa is a must.

I visited at night, and the shrine lit up under the evening sky was truly magical.

Plus, we enjoyed the quieter atmosphere, with fewer crowds around.

If you’re a fan of homeware, close by is Kappabashi Street which is a must-see, where you’ll find authentic, handmade ceramics and Japanese knife shops.

For a bit of natural beauty, I highly recommend the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.

It’s a peaceful and picturesque spot, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Alternatively, Yoyogi Park and Meiji Jingu Shrine offer stunning scenery along with a dose of authentic Japanese culture.

For a bit more excitement, head to the bustling heart of Shibuya and experience the iconic crossing.

While the area is full of fantastic restaurants, I suggest venturing off the beaten path and finding a cozy, independent ramen bar for a bowl of fresh, delicious ramen.

And don’t miss the chance to catch a sunset from one of the city’s observation decks.

The panoramic views over Tokyo are absolutely breathtaking, and there are plenty of ticketed or free viewing decks to choose from.”

Regular readers will know PlanetSKI is in Japan for a month or so.

We are primarily here for the skiing:

But much else besides:

Andy Knights also recommends taking in other non-skiing activities on a trip to Japan if you can.

“Japan is revered for its incredibly consistent deep, dry powder and has been a powder chasers’ destination for years, however, travelling to Japan is not just about waist deep turns, there is so much more to explore in this unique destination,” said Andy Knights from Ski Safari that is a specialist on skiing in Japan and has offered us invaluable advice and help with our trip.

“It goes without saying you’ll likely score the best powder turns ever, but you can also experience racing across the country on the bullet trains, plus indulge the traditions found in Kyoto and Kanazawa.

“Explore thousand-year-old temples and shrines paying homage to the history and culture that exists, whilst also enjoying the phenomenal cuisine widely on offer.

“Travelling in late March also provides the opportunity to experience cherry blossom season, the Philosophers path in Kyoto comes alive in a sea of pink.”

Visiting Japan

A handful of specialist UK operators offer ski holidays to Japan.

Ski Safari has perhaps the most experience of the country with tailored packages built on the company’s extensive knowledge and experience.

It offers the following six ski resorts:

Niseko – Japan’s largest and best-known ski resort, the quality and quantity of snow here is unparalleled – for powder, it doesn’t get much better than a Niseko ski holiday

Hakuba – Hakuba ski holidays are blessed with alpine-like terrain and huge variety. Hakuba is a great place to use as a base for exploring multiple resorts on one lift pass.

Rusutsa – A quirky, powder-filled paradise, Rusutsu ski holidays are great on their own or as part of a longer trip in Hokkaido.

Nozawa Onsen – Japan’s oldest ski resort, Nozawa Onsen ski holidays are as famous for onsens as they are for skiing – perfect for a ski trip with added culture.

Kiroro – Relatively under-the-radar, Kiroro ski holidays feature deep powder, quiet slopes and fantastic tree runs off-piste.

Furano -Choose a Furano ski holiday for a traditional resort in an idyllic setting and top notch piste skiing. A good value option, Furano is a thriving town in its own right.

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