The best way to travel like a local, is to ask a local. In this series of travel guides, we ask creatives and insiders from our global community to show us their city, their way

Not only is Japanese American model Melody Yoko Reilly one of Tokyo’s top models, who has appeared on magazine covers and campaigns for brands like Shiseido and Uniqlo.

She is also a human ray of sunshine—beaming radiant energy wherever she goes. Just take a look at her Instagram profile, which is full of positive affirmations and wholesome nature photos paired with thoughtful, thought-provoking captions. 

We asked Melody to share some of her favourite places to visit in Tokyo when she’s in search of some peace and inspiration—and she certainly delivered with her pick of Tokyo’s best boutique art galleries, yoga studios, charming historic neighbourhoods and more. 

“To me, Japan’s magic lies in Japanese culture, spirit, and in the loving hearts of the local people,” she says. “If you already love traveling to Japan, or you are someone who has never gone but dreams to one day, my highest recommendation for traveling is to always ask a local. Start a conversation with someone because the real hidden world of Japan is just a ‘hello’ away.” 

Bee’s Bar by Narisawa

Michelin-star restaurant Narisawa opened this speciality cocktail bar with delicious Japanese soul food. It’s a nightlife experience you won’t forget. I highly suggest trying their curry and house-made potato chips.

See also: A Taste of Home: Sushi Ichizuke Chef Ryoichi Nakatani on His Favourite Eats in Tokyo

Nezu Museum

Nestled in the backstreets of Omotesando, this museum is not one to miss for its gorgeous outdoor garden and tea house. Take a stroll and feel the natural energy of Japan alive all around you. 

Chōkoku-ji

I happened to stumble across this Buddhist temple while walking to Roppongi from Omotesando. Here, a spectacular statue of a wood- and gold-coated Kannon Bhodisattva gracefully awaits visitors near the building's entrance. If you are planning to visit Nezu Museum, Chōkoku-ji is close by. 

Yanaka

Close to Ueno Park, Yanaka district might be off the beaten path for most people. With many historic buildings of a Tokyo past, you’ll be taken in by the unique charm of this area: wooden Houses with overgrown vines climbing up the walls, laundry hanging outside, tiny streets... this is an authentic side of Tokyo that is still thriving.

Check out local shops and bakeries in the area, where you'll find delicious food for less than central Tokyo prices. Some must-visits are Vaner Bakery and a gallery called  Scai the Bathhouse

TeamLabs Planets Tokyo

This feat by TeamLabs allows for a seamless cross-over into a whole new world of immersive, interactive art.

Each space is so encapsulating that all of your senses will be thrilled. My favourite thing to do is to lie on the floor of the Infinity Room and look up. You feel like you are floating in space surrounded by billions of stars. 

See also: A Taste of Home: Sushi Ichizuke Chef Ryoichi Nakatani on His Favourite Eats in Tokyo

Kamakura & Odawara

A half-day trip to these seaside towns does not disappoint as you walk through huge Buddhist and Shinto Temples, cute local shops and restaurants. So much history, energy, and local culture, there is something new to explore around every corner. I suggest arriving around lunch to Kamakura and watching the sunset from Odawara with Mount Fuji beaming on the horizon.

Odawara Art Foundation

Be sure to book ahead for this inspiring outdoor museum by contemporary artist Hiroshi Sugimoto. With a backdrop of Sagami Bay, take a day trip to Odawara Art Foundation to explore the subtle beauties of Japanese art, nature, people, and expression. Not to mention it’s nestled in the mountains of Hakone which means there's an option to stop by the natural hot spring baths on the way home.

See also: Tokyo Boutique Hotels for Travellers Who Are All About Aesthetics

Sun and Moon Yoga

Doing any kind of exercise on a trip is always a good thing, so I like to stop by Sun and Moon Yoga in Gotanda to ground me into my body. The wooden beauty and simplicity of the studio is why I love Sun and Moon. It’s about the philosophy and the community of yogis who share the love they have inside their hearts with others. Also, yogis always know where to find great vegetarian spots! 

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