Tokyo with Renata Sakamoto
The Layover: NRT
A quick look at model Renata Sakamoto’s Instagram provides a solid dose of travel inspiration. The girl is seemingly everywhere. But when she’s not starring in Intimissimi lingerie ads or shooting bikini campaigns in Thailand, you’ll find Renata grabbing late night ramen or stocking up on local beauty products in her hometown of Tokyo. We grabbed a few tips from the beauty on where to go in Japan’s bustling capital.
Q. Where do we find the best locals-only sushi spot?
“Sushi Masuda Aoyama, without a doubt.”
Sushi Masuda
Q. What is your favorite place to go for a walk?
“There’s too many good places to choose just one! I would have to say the Nakameguro river, Daikanyama, and the Imperial Palace area.”
The Imperial Palace
Q. What is one thing you can only buy in Japan and where do we find it?
“In my opinion Japan and Korea are the best places to buy cosmetics and makeup. My favorite thing to use is the face mask sheets. Seibu in Shibuya is a great place to get them. They have a great selection of both Japanese and international brands.”
Seibu
q. Where do you go when you want to hear great music?
“Marta Bar in Ebisu. They have good music, but it’s kind of an underground-feeling since you’re not allowed to speak too loud or take photos.”
Bar Martha
Q. What’s the best spot for a late night snack?
“Any Ramen shop is the best spot. We have them on pretty much every corner! My favorite one is Tsukumo in Ebisu.”
Q. You get a rare weekend off from traveling. How do you spend it?
“I’ll usually be at home and relaxing watching movies and taking baths. Or, I take a short trip to a city near by. Hakone is my favorite nearby getaway.”
Hakone // Photo: Joanna Liu
Q. Which hotel would you pick for a one-night staycation in your own city?
“Definitely the Aman Tokyo.”
Aman Tokyo // Photo: Aman
Q. What is your favorite shop and what should we pick up there?
“Any shop in Takeshita Street in Harajuku. It doesn’t get more Japanese than that.”
Q. Who makes the best cocktail?
“I love Lychee martinis! My favorite one is from Two Rooms Grill in Omotesando or the Mandarin Oriental Bar.”
Two Rooms Grill
Q. What is one place in Tokyo everyone needs to see?
“Shibuya Crossing. It still impresses me every time.”
Shibuya Crossing // Photo: Darren Chan