24 hours in ... Tokyo

"If you like Japanese cars, you should go to Mega Web," he says. Operated by Toyota, it's a showroom where you can drive new-model cars. "Odaiba also has the largest convention centre in Japan, called the Tokyo Big Sight," Sakai says.

"The most popular event here is the annual International Anime Fair [March 18-21]; it attracts more than 50,000 guests a day."

11:30

"A series of overpass-highways cover central Tokyo like a spider's nest," Sakai says.

When leaving Odaiba, the fastest route is via the Shuto Expressway.

"I usually take Shuto Highway No.11; it's known for its suspension bridge called the Rainbow Bridge. It reminds me of the time I spent in Sydney, where of course, there is another beautiful bridge."

12:00

Fashion seekers should head to the Aoyama district in Minato Ward.

"There are so many boutiques and cafes in this area, so just watching people on the street may tell you the latest trend," Sakai says.

"My favourite place is a commercial complex called Omotesando Hills, home to a collection of shops and restaurants."

13:00

Time for lunch. Sakai's recommendation is, of course, La Rochelle Minami Aoyama for French-inspired food.

"It's in a quiet residential area and has a chapel next to it. Both restaurant and chapel are decorated with beautiful illumination."

14:30

"In central Tokyo, you can check your emails anywhere, anytime, even at the train stations or in the grocery shop," Sakai says. "I prefer to check mine at a quieter place." His secret spot for Wi-Fi connection is the lobby lounge in the Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel in Shibuya.

"Zabou, the garden lounge on the fourth floor, is the perfect place for me; I usually check my emails over a cup of Chinese tea." When with guests, Sakai heads to the basement floor of the hotel for a show. "An appreciation of Japanese traditional performances helps to understand Japanese culture," he says.

He also loves the Szechuan restaurant in this hotel, named after his best friend, Chen Kenichi, the Chinese Iron Chef.

"The dishes are highly nutritious and very healthy; I usually eat Chen's special noodle, which is only available here."

16:00

The Peninsula Tokyo is luxurious and is opposite the Imperial Palace. Sakai says the Lobby Restaurant is renowned for its afternoon tea.

"There is always a long queue waiting for a table to enjoy this world-famous triple-tiered plate," he says. Best to book ahead.

18:30

If Sakai has to choose one Tokyo hotel, it would be the Hotel New Otani. "In the midst of a 40,000-square-metre garden with more than 400 years' history, this is one of the most prestigious hotels in Tokyo," he says. It's in the Chiyoda district, where you'll also find the Diet building, the supreme court and ministry of finance. However, Sakai says once you step into the hotel, you may forget you're in the middle of one of the liveliest cities in the world.

21:00

Roppongi is the place for after-dark fun. "There are bars, theatres, jazz clubs and restaurants here to satisfy your taste," Sakai says.

His top choice is the theatre-restaurant Roppongi Kingyo, where lavish stage shows are performed, often with themes and issues ranging from war to romance.

"Many of the dancers are "new-half" [transsexual] dancers and all the staff are great entertainers," he says. "Every time I leave this theatre I have new ideas and thoughts for my own restaurant."

24:00

Sakai likes to wrap up with a cup of tea or a cocktail at a top hotel.

"This is the prize for me on a busy day and nothing compares," he says.

06:30

Up early for a round of golf with friends, Sakai starts a new day with a gourmet breakfast at the Peninsula Hotel.