Where to Stay

Perched on a hilltop in a residential area of Tokyo, The Four Seasons at Chizan-so embraces 17 acres of gardens so guests don’t even need to leave the premises to see cherry trees in full bloom. As opposed to the brand’s more modern downtown branch, The Four Seasons at Chizan-so offers a peaceful retreat away from the city bustle, and the beautiful grounds offer waterfalls and walking paths that make for a relaxing afternoon break from sightseeing.

Web: www.fourseasons.com/tokyo

Where to Eat

Kaiseki ryori, the artful multi-course culinary tradition that emphasises only seasonal ingredients used at the precise moment of peak ripeness, should be mandatory for foodies looking for an exit stamp to return to China. The Conrad Tokyo has elevated this tradition, literally, by serving up kaiseki lunch and dinner specials on the 28th floor at Kazahana. The views are as unforgettable as the delicate plate presentations.

Descend from great heights for an after-dinner drink in Golden Gai, a neighbourhood near the bright lights of Shinjuku, famous for its warren of cosy cocktail bars and eateries. Most feature only a few stools, so sit down with a chuhai, a drink made from baijiu’s tastier cousin shochu and mixed with soda and a range of fruit juices, and don’t let go of your seat.

Web: www.conradtokyo.co.jp

Getting There

When we last checked, direct flights from Shanghai to Tokyo return could be found for RMB 2,026 (including taxes).

Web: www.ctrip.com