A Dragon Queen's Guide to Tokyo: Beyond the Iron Throne

From Dragonstone to Sushi Stone: A Royal Palate's Pilgrimage

Greetings my loyal subjects and potential allies! As Daenerys Stormborn of the House Targaryen First of Her Name Queen of the Andals and the Rhoynar and the First Men Khaleesi of the Great Grass Sea Breaker of Chains and Mother of Dragons I find myself occasionally needing a break from the tiresome business of ruling (or attempting to at least). So I’ve taken a page from the books of lesser monarchs and embarked on a journey to the land of the rising sun – Japan! And I must say this realm of sushi and serenity offers a refreshing change from the backstabbing and bloodshed of Westeros. I am no ordinary tourist I am the blood of the dragon so I will not settle for mediocre establishments.

Where a Queen Eats: Michelin Stars and Humble Holes in the Wall

Forget the feasts of King's Landing; Tokyo's culinary scene is where true indulgence lies. A wise chef named Akikuni a man of the East suggests Ginza Sushi Aoki. A place where he was trained. If you seek the contemporary Noda is another option. He appreciates the wine pairing a pastime I indulge in myself a good Dornish red is always an excellent choice. I am told reservations are made through the phone though I do not understand what if I was to call through a raven? I must make my inquiries through my hotel concierge such odd customs.

Yokocho Adventures: When a Khaleesi Goes Casual

Even a queen enjoys a bit of street food – though I do miss the roasted meats of the Dothraki Sea. Akikuni recommends Toranomon Yokocho a modern take on the traditional alleyways. A place where one can 'try a little bit of everything all in one place.' Sounds delightful though I do hope they have something spicier than lemon cakes! I wonder if they would take kindly to dragon fire roasted meats? A new dish sweeping across the lands.

Elixirs and Echoes: A Dragon Queen's Guide to Tokyo Nightlife

Ruling requires a good head and a steady hand but even I appreciate a well crafted cocktail. Akikuni points to Good Music Bar where vinyl records spin and cocktails flow. Kasumicho Arashi sounds promising especially if their fruit based concoctions can rival the wines of Dorne. And The SG Club owned by the renowned Shingo Gokan promises a multi level experience worthy of a Targaryen celebration. Though I do wonder are there cigar rooms in Westeros? Perhaps a new addition to the Red Keep is in order.

Shrines and Seafood: Finding Peace (and Breakfast) in the City

Between plotting conquests and negotiating alliances I find solace in serene spaces. The Meiji Jingu Shrine a forest within the city sounds like a perfect escape from the urban chaos. And the Toyosu Market where Akikuni sources ingredients for his Miami restaurant is a must see. I hear they have a tuna auction that makes even the Iron Bank's vaults seem modest. A 608 pound bluefin tuna was sold for around $1.3 million dollars! Imagine how many Unsullied I could buy with that kind of coin! Though I wonder if Drogon would prefer a taste himself...

Shopping Spree: From Silks to Streetwear a Queen's Wardrobe Expansion

A queen must always be impeccably dressed whether in dragon scales or the latest fashions. While Ginza boasts international brands Akikuni suggests Omotesando and Harajuku for truly unique finds. Omotesando the 'Champs Élysées of Tokyo,' sounds suitably regal while Harajuku's subculture offers a chance to embrace my inner rebel. After all a dragon queen must be both powerful and stylish. I need to stock up on something other than dragon riding attire after all.