Half-Japanese, half-American and raised in seven countries, Alina Ito is Miss Cosmo Japan 2026 — and also happens to be one of Tokyo Weekender’s staff writers. She’s known in the office for her seemingly endless energy and long list of side quests. She loves writing about all the fascinating destinations her adventures take her, as well as TW’s monthly horoscopes.

Here’s how she’d spend a perfect day in Tokyo.

My perfect day in Tokyo is …

Gorgeously sunny, of course. I’d start my day with a stroll along the Meguro River and grab coffee at one of the many cafes in Nakameguro — my favorites include Streamer Coffee and Onibus. I’d have brunch at a restaurant with a terrace afterward. I might go to Bricolage in Roppongi for its freshly baked bread; Cafe Gitane in Ebisu, a cute New York-style brunch spot; or Canal Cafe in Iidabashi for some waterside pizza.

I’d then spend a little time in Kagurazaka, a quaint, historic neighborhood sometimes referred to as “Little France.” With cobblestone streets and lots of artisanal stores and fine-dining restaurants, it’s kind of like a cross between Paris and Kyoto. Right by the station is Akagi Shrine, a Shinto shrine designed by Kengo Kuma that has its own cafe. I actually used to work here as a shrine maiden, so I’d stop by and say hi to the head priest, who’s like an uncle to me.

Next, I’d get an early dinner somewhere with a view. The Tokyo Edition, Ginza has an adorable, colorful rooftop bar called The Roof, Mercato at Janu Tokyo is a lively Italian restaurant with open kitchens and gorgeous fresh pasta, and I also like Two Rooms in Omotesando for its great wine selection.

After that, I’d get a digestif at one of Tokyo’s record bars. I’ve always loved The Music Bar –Cave Shibuya–, as well as A10 in Ebisu, a speakeasy-style spot that you’ll have fun finding the entrance for (if you haven’t seen a viral TikTok about it already).

Finally, I’d cap my perfect day by going to El Café Latino or Studio Pepe 2 for some Latin social dancing. Japan has a small but surprisingly robust bachata and salsa community. It’s a great way to make friends and learn how to dance.

Tokyo’s best-kept secret is …

The culture of gathering. I think a lot of foreigners imagine Japanese people to be quiet and private, and while that can be true, so much of Japanese culture is based on coming together. Japanese people love organizing after-work drinks at an izakaya or having bento in parks; it’s a really social custom that I find beautiful.

A place I’ve always wanted to try is …

The Pizza Bar on 38th at the Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo! I love Tokyo pizza and am so intrigued by the concept of an omakase pizza course. It’s just difficult to get a reservation there without some commitment.

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Follow Alina on Instagram at @alina.joan.