My Town
Tokyo, Japan
Hannah Edward enjoying nightlife in Tokyo, Japan (pictured near Tokyo Station). Photos courtesy of Hannah.
Hannah Edward (BA’22) moved to Tokyo in 2022 to work as an Assistant Language Teacher for the Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education. Following a three-year stint in Japan’s bustling capital, she recently moved back to Vancouver this past August and is looking forward to her next adventure.
What three words best describe Tokyo?
Lively. Efficient. Scenic.
How did you come to live in Tokyo?
I was studying in the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre in my final year of university when I received an email detailing the JET Programme, which is a teaching and cultural exchange program in Japan. Reading it, I just somehow knew that JET was a natural next step for me—it felt extremely aligned with who I was and what I was looking for at the time—so I applied, received the Tokyo placement, and the rest is history.
What do you like most about living there?
Tokyo has been an amazing access point to so many different experiences. I got to travel to other parts of Japan, learn about the country’s rich culture, connect with a vibrant expat community, and, of course, enjoy fantastic food. My favourite thing about living in Tokyo was the community I found there, consisting of Japanese nationals and fellow expats. Because of this welcoming community, I had the opportunity to experience matsuris (Japanese festivals), learn a new language, play and watch rugby multiple times a week, and so much more. I looked forward to weekends and evenings after work because there was always something new to explore or try!
Describe your favourite neighbourhood.
My favourite neighbourhood is Shimokitazawa. Although it is quite close to the city centre, it has a quieter vibe to it. It’s known for thrift and vintage shops, trendy cafes, and a wide selection of cuisine. Its fashion scene adds to the neighbourhood’s unique ambiance, making Shimokitazawa unlike anywhere else in Tokyo. On weekends, there are flea markets near the train station with vendors selling curated clothing pieces, jewellery, and accessories.
If you could change one thing about Tokyo, what would it be?
The amount of waiting that everyone has to do. I once waited 2.5 hours to get into a Hello Kitty Exhibition, and, unfortunately, this is not an uncommon experience. Plenty of museums, restaurants, and attractions have long lineups, require waitlists, and even use lottery systems to determine who gets admitted. You’ll even find yourself queuing for the elevator! I believe this is due to the density of Tokyo’s population as well as the huge number of tourists that this city attracts.
What might surprise a visitor about Tokyo?
Although Tokyo is a popular international destination, English is not as widely spoken there as one may think. Japanese is very much the dominant language and so it is important to know a few basic phrases when you visit. I think another surprise is how much the different “wards” (or municipalities) in Tokyo vary in terms of ambiance. There are more modern areas with skyscrapers, while other places are full of old bookstores or shrines at every corner. Tokyo truly demonstrates the amalgamation of innovation and tradition.
What are your favourite hidden gems or activities that only locals know about?
During my three years in Tokyo, I explored so many different matcha spots—to the point where my friends encouraged me to make an Instagram account devoted to matcha! I can confidently say I found two places I absolutely love.
The first is Atelier Matcha, located in the Ginza district (though it has recently become quite popular so I am not sure if it’s still a “hidden gem”).
The second is Kotobuki Seian in the Asakusa district, which has my favourite combination drink: ube matcha! It is a pain to find on Google Maps, so I usually just stumble upon it while walking. I think that's what makes it the ultimate hidden gem!
What’s the most overrated tourist hotspot?
Ichiran Ramen. There are typically long lines here, especially at its downtown location. It makes quite a standard ramen in my opinion, and there are arguably better ramen spots elsewhere. My Japanese friends would often say the same thing about this chain. However, if you’re keen to try it, avoid the downtown location and visit one in a less busy part of town.
How easy is it to meet new people?
Tokyo is what I like to call “a little big city.” There are so many little (but overlapping) communities here. Because of this, there are a variety of opportunities to meet people who have similar interests as you, and chances are you will cross paths multiple times. By putting myself out there, saying yes to invites, going to meetups, and participating in activities that fit my interests, I found so many people with whom I could relate, and who became a part of my community.
What is one local custom that every visitor should know about?
There is a certain standard of etiquette that is expected when you ride on the train—a set of unique, unspoken rules that passengers abide by. For example, you shouldn't talk on the phone or eat while on the train because it is seen as inconsiderate. If the train is full, wearing your backpack in front of you and briefly stepping out of the train to let others off are also expected.
A shot of the Tokyo Station and Marunouchi area, which, according to Hannah, is a great part of the city for tourists to stay in, as it is central but not too crowded.
A view of Tokyo Skytree, the tallest freestanding tower in the world, captured by Hannah during a bike ride in Katsushika (a "special ward," or municipality) in east Tokyo.
What a building in Asakusa looks like. The district is known for its “old Tokyo” feel and charming souvenir shops.
Ochazuke is a comforting dish that consists of pouring green tea, dashi (a Japanese soup stock), or hot water over cooked rice, topped with an assortment of savoury ingredients. It is one of Hannah's favourite foods.
Hannah enjoying some treats at Atelier Matcha, one of her favourite places for matcha in the city.
Looking to connect with your UBC alumni community?
If you live outside our campus communities in the Lower Mainland and Central Okanagan, visit the Global Alumni Network page to see if there’s an alumni ambassador or social media community where you live.
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