Chanathip “Jay” Songkrasin, often referred to as the “Thai Messi,” is a Thai football sensation. Songkrasin made history as the first Thai player to join the Japanese league with Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo and later thrilled fans with Kawasaki Frontale, where he played a big role in winning the J-League four times in five years.
Recognised for his exceptional dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring abilities, Songkrasin was the youngest player called up to the Thai national team by Winfried Schäfer for the 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup, where Thailand finished as runners-up. He also earned a gold medal at the 2013 SEA Games and helped secure the 2014 AFF Suzuki Cup. His standout performances with the Thailand national team, including multiple AFF Championship titles and being named the tournament's best player, highlight his status as a key figure in Thai football, the Land of Smiles’ most popular sport. His perseverance and skill have cemented his place as one of Thailand's top footballers today.
Although Songkrasin has returned to his homeland, he still has a deep affection for Tokyo. Besides his passion for football, he has a keen eye for fashion, so much so that he launched his own eyewear. Here are his favourite hangout spots in Tokyo for you to explore when visiting the capital of the Land of the Rising Sun!
RELEVANT: These Are the Best Ramen in Tokyo
(© jaychanathip/ Instagram)
For a cuppa joe: IVY PLACE
“I like coming here because it's quite peaceful, offers a variety of seating options, and has a great atmosphere. It's perfect for a relaxing day. Sitting back and sipping a cup of coffee while looking at the beautiful garden is just perfect and one of my top choices.”Ivy Place at Daikanyama T-Site offers a diverse menu from 8 am daily. The outdoor terraces are ideal in good weather, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or even some of the in-house beer.
Daikanyama T-Site Garden, 16-15 Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo.
(© IVY PLACE/ TYSONS & COMPANY)
For a true Tokyo experience: SHIBUYA SKY
"Once you come to Tokyo, you can't miss this place. It's become one of those must-check-in spots where you can proudly say you've arrived in Tokyo. The height is real, and the thrill is real—you can see all of Tokyo from up here. On a clear day, the view is amazing. However, it can be a bit difficult to book because it's always so fully booked!"An observation deck, Shibuya Sky, is located on the roof of The Shibuya Scramble Square, which also includes shops, offices, and a parking area. While most Tokyo viewpoints are indoors, here you can enjoy both indoor and outdoor perspectives. The outdoor area offers a 360-degree cityscape and a stunning panoramic view of Tokyo.
Shibuya Scramble Square 14F, 45F, 46F & rooftop, 2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo.
(© Shutterstock)
For the finest ramen: Sosakumenkobo NAKIRYU
“I love Sosakumenkobo NAKIRYU for its reasonable prices and well-balanced flavours. The place may be small, but the broth is flavourful and savoury without being too salty. If you're looking for a great local ramen spot, this is the place to go.”This 2024 Bib Gourmand spot blends Japanese and Chinese ramen styles. Chef Kazumasa Saito's dandan noodles with sesame paste and chilli oil are a highlight. Try the gyoza and steamed chicken. Numbered tickets are available early each morning.
2-34-4 Minamiotsuka, Toshima-ku, Tokyo.
(© Michelin)
For some me time: GINZA SIX
“I like to park here and go shopping for brands in this area. The mall isn't too crowded, and it has a wide selection of branded goods and shops. You can also find a quiet café on the lower floor, perfect for spending the whole day.”GINZA SIX, a luxury shopping complex in Tokyo, features stores, including top brands, restaurants, a theatre, and a rooftop garden. It's a great spot if you want to spend a day in the neighbourhood.
6-10-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo.
(© Shutterstock)
For an unforgettable sushi experience: Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi
“The sushi at Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi is exceptional. With its limited seating, you enjoy an intimate experience in small groups. The chef explains the fish and its story and origin, allowing you to focus on each bite while feeling the finesse of the food.”Each sushi piece at Sukiyabashi Jiro Roppongi is carefully weighed, prepared, and shaped. The chef expertly seasons the rice with vinegar, believing that the rice makes up 60% of the flavour and the toppings 40%. He works with his sons, teaching them his craft with a strict, traditional approach. To show appreciation to international guests, he’s learned to say “thank you” in several languages.
3F, Roppongi Hills Residence B, 6-12-2 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo.
(© Michelin)
For a perfect place to shop: Shibuya
"I usually walk around Shibuya when I want to buy something. I like wandering through the small alleys and discovering street brand shops and quiet spots. Shibuya has everything you need in one place. I often visit sports shops to pick up gear."Needless to say, Shibuya is Tokyo's vibrant playground, brimming with colour, energy, and endless excitement. This lively district is a hotspot for shopping, dining, and nightlife, drawing crowds daily. As known as a centre for youth fashion and culture, Shibuya's streets are the birthplace of many of Japan's coolest trends. With a plethora of department stores and shopping malls, there's something for everyone, making it the perfect spot for a fun-filled day (or night) out.
2-24 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo.
(© Shutterstock)
For a good stroll: Omotesando
“I love strolling around the Omotesando area. I enjoy visiting the Meiji Shrine, where the pace of life is slower compared to other areas—busy but not overwhelming, creating a uniquely calming atmosphere. After a relaxing time there, where you can wander around Omotesando for a casual bite and some light shopping, stretching all the way to Harajuku.”Omotesando, Tokyo's answer to the Champs-Élysées, beckons with its tree-lined streets brimming with chic shops, quirky cafes, and fantastic restaurants. This stylish avenue leads you to the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine and spills into the vibrant Harajuku district. Just like Ginza, Omotesando is a hotspot for both international and Japanese brands. As you stroll along its wide walkways, you'll be enchanted by the striking modern architecture, a testament to Tokyo's trendsetting spirit and the incredible skill of Japanese designers.
3-6-12 Kitaaoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo.
READ FURTHER: The Best Hotels for Design Lovers in Tokyo
(© Shutterstock)
For a good blessing: The Great Buddha of Kamakura
“Since I lived just outside Tokyo, in the Kawasaki and Yokohama area, there are several places I enjoy that aren't in the heart of Tokyo just in case you wish to leave Tokyo for a bit. I highly recommend the Great Buddha Temple in Kamakura at Kotokuin Temple. It's incredibly sacred—I felt a shiver and found it truly meaningful. I always go there to pay respects and ask for blessings, and they’ve always been fulfilled. The amulets are great too; I often get those as gifts for people back in Thailand.”The Kamakura Daibutsu, a 13th-century bronze Buddha, is Japan's second tallest and a major tourist attraction in the Kanto area. It's an easy day trip from Tokyo: take the Shonan Shinjuku line from Shinjuku Station to Kamakura, then transfer to the Enoshima Electric Railway to Hase Station.
4-2-28 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa.
(© Shutterstock)
Illustration image: © Jay Chanathip Official/ Facebook
