From Tokyo Tower to shopping in Ginza, enjoy a fun-filled day out in Tokyo!

When it comes to Tokyo’s most famous sightseeing spots, Tokyo Tower definitely takes first place. This iconic 333m tall tower is open for tourists, with smart COVID-19 measures in place for your peace of mind. Mon was thrilled to visit this Tokyo landmark after such a long break.

To access the observation deck, Mon first approached the ticket counter on the first floor, where there are two choices of ticket. Visitors can opt for a 150m main deck ticket or a special 250m top deck tour ticket, which also includes a visit to the 150m main deck. Mon chose the 150m main deck ticket, and after a smooth transaction with her JCB card, she was on her way to the elevators.

The elevator doors open to an amazing panoramic view of Tokyo. The main deck underwent drastic renovations during the fall of 2019 to increase the height of the windowpanes to 210cm and remove the steel fences blocking the view. Now visitors are greeted with wide open views of Tokyo’s bustling metropolis.

Mon took in the views of Odaiba, Rainbow Bridge, and – thanks to the clear weather – Mount Fuji! Clearly, from the constant click of Mon’s camera shutter, being able to view the majestic Mount Fuji from deep in Tokyo is a special experience no matter how many times you have visited Japan.

After returning to ground level, Mon checked out the souvenir floor. The ‘Tokyo Tower Stuffed Toy’ (1,650 yen, tax included) is a particularly popular buy, along with many other cute and unique souvenirs perfect for buying in bulk to share with friends back home.

Other fun facilities at Tokyo Tower include ‘RED TOKYO TOWER’, the largest e-sports park in Japan ideal for both children and adults. Mon made a note to visit during her next trip.

From May 15, 2023 to April 30, 2024, when paying at Tokyo Tower using your overseas JCB card, present this website page to receive preferential treatment on the Main Deck and at the official stores! *Discounts do not apply to admission fees to the Top Deck, RED° museum, and RED° merchandise.

For more information:
https://www.specialoffers.jcb/en/campaign/detail/tokyotower/62748/

Mon hopped on over to Ginza for the highlight of the day – a shopping spree! The famous Matsuya Department Store in the top retail district of Ginza is one of the best and biggest places to shop in Tokyo, with ten floors and a huge 57,000 square meters of floor space.

Before shopping, be sure to visit the Foreign Customer Service Counter on the third floor for information on duty-free procedures and special deals for foreign tourists.

Matsuya Ginza is currently offering 5% discounts on purchases by foreign JCB card holders from the following banks when you show your card at the Foreign Customer Service Counter. These JCB card holders will also be presented with special coupon tickets that can be used at restaurants and cafes on site. (Excludes some brands and products).*UOB does not issue JCB cards.

• AEON Hong Kong

Mon was spoilt for choice with all the on-trend women’s clothing, shoes and bags, and loved exploring the cosmetics floor. She was particularly intrigued by luxury Japanese makeup brand ‘Amplitude’ that debuted in 2018. Luckily for Mon, the Matsuya Ginza staff let anybody sample cosmetic products that take their fancy, so she could test out different shades before purchasing.

On the first-floor accessories floor, Mon stopped by STAR JEWELRY – a luxury jewelry brand with headquarters based in the nearby port city of Yokohama. Out of all the beautiful Made in Japan jewelry pieces, Mon quickly decided on a stunning pair of diamond earrings.

The last stop on Mon’s Tokyo day trip was Sushiden Kenzan on the 8th floor of Matsuya Ginza. Sushi chefs at this luxury Tokyo sushi restaurant create gourmet masterpieces with fresh seafood procured straight from the market.

Mon ordered ‘Today’s Special Seasonal Nigiri Set’ (6,600 yen, tax included). This mouthwatering sushi platter includes fresh seasonal seafood such as luxury ‘toro’ tuna, shrimp and salmon roe. Menu items are subject to change depending on availability.

Mon was so excited to eat real Japanese sushi again! “In Thailand, sushi toppings are small and not very fresh, but Japanese sushi is so fresh and really delicious”, she reflected. In addition to the sushi platters, Sushiden Kenzan also makes eye-catching dishes such as ‘Bara Chirashi’ seafood bowls (2,420 yen, tax included).