NZ Olympic Team’s Rob Waddell talks Tokyo.

Olympic rowing gold medallistROB WADDELL is Chef de Mission for the New Zealand Team for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. He’s lived in Japan and visited Tokyo many times as he helps the team prepare for the Olympic Games. We asked him all about it.

Rob, you really know Tokyo. What are your top recommendations for visitors?

What amazes me about Tokyo is all the different parts of the city and their distinct personalities. I’m an electronics fan so Akihabara is fantastic — the massive Yodobashi Camera store is my go-to. Mandarake Complex has the crazy toys and games you think of when you think of Japan. Omotesando and Harajuku are great for the latest in fashion — although finding clothes to fit a 6’7” gaijin (foreigner) is challenging!

I really enjoy the mix of old and new in Tokyo with the shrines and temples around this city. The parks seem so tranquil compared to the business of Tokyo. Meiji Jingu is a real favourite but for something more off-the-beaten-track, Nezu Shrine is really worth a visit. It has a walkway of beautiful red torii gateways that many people travel all the way to Kyoto for — but it’s right in the middle of Tokyo!

What about the cuisine? Any must-try foods or favourite restaurants?

There are some really interesting restaurants in Tokyo — from traditional eating houses right up to the crazy Robot restaurant in Shinjuku. I love all Japanese food but it’s hard for me to go past chicken katsu if it’s on the menu. You can find a great place to get chicken katsu in Shinbashi, where the famous Japanese “salary men” roam for lunch, or if you are in Akihabara, check out award-winning little restaurant Marugo, which has pork and chicken katsu. Yum!

What’s it like at the Games?

The Olympic Games are incredible. The atmosphere in Tokyo is really building. What’s stood out for me here is how harmonious a society it is for such a large number of people, how clean the city is — everything seems immaculate — and the fascinating mix of old culture blended with advanced technology.

What’s a must-watch at the Games?

Rowing! Just kidding! They are all incredible to watch. There is nothing like seeing athletes compete in a gold/silver final. They’ve worked so hard and the tension is so high. It’s hard to explain unless you’re there on the spot. All I can say is if you get a chance, go. We’d love to see you there! ■