A 10-minute walk from Nijo Castle you’ll find Cotoha, a very cool plant shop with a gallery and Brooklyn-esque coffee shop downstairs called Clamp. Originally a bath house, it’s a tiny space with refurbished wood and antique finds. It’s getting easier to get a good cup of coffee in Japan and these guys are leading the way.

This is where you put Google Maps away and just wander. The district is the best place to experience old Kyoto, Japan’s former capital. Burrow between the narrow streets and the wooden buildings to reach Yasaka Pagoda, perhaps the most photographed spot in the district.

It may be touristy but don’t miss this famous geisha area, packed with shops, restaurants and teahouses. Running along the canal, Shirakawa Gion is bordered by traditional wooden buildings on one side and trees on the other. If you are here when the cherry blossoms (April) or when the leaves turn in autumn it is incredibly beautiful.

teamLab’s digital art museum is a labyrinth of wonder and creativity – the kind of museum that leaves you dazzled for days after departing. Booking tickets in advance of any trip to Tokyo is an absolute must. Located in Odaiba, which can be reached by train or, even better, one of Tokyo’s high-tech river boats, Borderless has an enormous appeal for all ages, regardless of the level of interest in art. Rooms full of hanging lanterns which change shade depending on touch, forests of crystal light, projected waterfalls and room after room of mesmerising creativity draw you in until the time of day is completely forgotten. It’s fair to say teamLab has mastered the art of entertainment and visual display.