Tokyo, with a population of over 13 million and more than 37 million in its metropolitan area, is the most populous city in the world. It is made up of 23 wards, 26 cities, one district subdivided into three towns and one village, and four sub-prefectures.
In this post we will look at the most recommended places to see in Tokyo. We’ll break them down by neighbourhood to make it easier to understand.
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Content:
- Bunkyō (文京区)
- Chiyoda (千代田区)
- Chūō (中央区)
- Katsushika (飾区)
- Minato (港区)
- Nakano (中野区)
- Odaiba (お台場)
- Setagaya (世田谷区)
- Shibuya (渋谷区)
- Shinjuku (新宿区)
- Sumida (墨田区)
- Taitō (台東区)
- Extra
Bunkyō (文京区)
Located in the middle of the special neighbourhood area, Bunkyō is a residential and educational centre. Since the Meiji period, scholars such as Natsume Sōseki, as well as scholars and politicians have lived in this special neighbourhood.
01. Koishikawa Kōrakuen Gardens
They were built in the early Edo period, in 1629 by the founder of the Tokugawa Mito family, Yoritou.
The gardens are truly spectacular. It is said in the forums that the best time to visit is in autumn, so it must be a great time.
The Engetsu Bridge (円月橋) or Moon Bridge, which Ishibashi is said to have been designed by the Confucian scholar of Mitsukuni, Zhu Sunsui. This name is given because it looks like a full moon when combined with the reflection on the surface of the water.
The bridge was originally designed to allow pedestrians to pass over it while the barge is operating in the canal.
Opening hours: daily from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm (last admission at 4.30 pm).
On Saturdays and Sundays there are free guided tours at 11am and 2pm.
Price: 300¥. Free admission on May 4, nature day.
How to get there:
5-minute walk from the Suidobashi west exit (JB17) of the JR Sobu Line.
8 minutes walk from the east exit of Iidabashi Station (JB16) on the JR Sobu Line.
Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and Namboku Line ‘Korakuen’ (M22 / N11) 6 minutes walk from exit 2.
8 minutes walk from exit A2 Suidobashi (I11) on the Toei Mita Line.
A MUST-SEE!
02. Nezu Shrine
It is one of the oldest shrines in Japan. According to legend, Nezu Shrine was founded at Sendagi, north of the present location, in the 1st century by Yamato Takeru (also known as Prince Ōsu), the son of Emperor Keikō.
The main deity of the shrine was Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the kami of the sea and storms. In 1705 the shrine was relocated to Nezu by the Tokugawa Tsunayoshi shōgun.
Strolling through the gardens is a real marvel. You will find ponds with carp, tunnels of toriis and, above all, a great deal of tranquillity. It’s hard to believe that we are in the heart of Tokyo.
What you will also find, at least in summer, are lots of killer mosquitoes. Bring a good repellent because we were riddled with them.
Opening hours: daily from 5:00 to 18:00.
Price: free of charge.
How to get there: 6 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Nezu Station (Chiyoda Line).
8 minutes from Tokyo Metro Todaimae Station (Namboku Line).
RECOMMENDED VISIT!
03. Attending an ‘exciting’ baseball game at Tokyo Dome
Tokyo Dome is an indoor stadium built on the grounds of the Kōrakuen sports ground. It was opened on 17 March 1988.
It hosts sporting events and concerts. It is home to the Yomiuri Giants baseball team.
Come and have a look around. I have never seen people enter a stadium in such an orderly and calm manner.
How to get there: 5 minutes walk from the west exit of Suidobashi (JB17) on the JR Sobu Line. 8 minutes walk from the east exit of Iidabashi Station (JB16) on the JR Sobu Line.
Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and Namboku Line ‘Korakuen’ (M22 / N11) 6 minutes walk from exit 2.
8 minutes walk from exit A2 Suidobashi (I11) on the Toei Mita Line.
04. Tokyo Dome City
Tokyo Dome City is a kind of amusement park with everything from baseball games and roller coasters to restaurants and hot springs.
Price: Entrance to the park is free. If you want to use the rides you will have to pay. General day admission on weekends is 4,500¥ for adults and 3,900¥ for children. Weekday day admission is 4,200¥ for adults and 3,700¥ for children.
How to get there: 5 minutes walk from the Suidobashi west exit (JB17) of the JR Sobu line.
8-minute walk from the east exit of Iidabashi Station (JB16) on the JR Sobu Line.
Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and Namboku Line ‘Korakuen’ (M22 / N11) 6 minutes walk from exit 2.
8 minutes walk from exit A2 Suidobashi (I11) on the Toei Mita Line.
Chiyoda (千代田区)
Chiyoda is another of Tokyo’s special neighbourhoods, 12% of whose area is occupied by the Imperial Palace.
Its name means ‘field of a thousand generations’ and it was created in 1947 after the unification of the Kanda and Kojimachi wards.
05. Imperial Palace or Kōkyo
The Imperial Palace in Tokyo is the permanent residence of the Emperor of Japan and is a large garden complex. It includes buildings such as the main palace, the private residences of the imperial family, an archive, museums and administrative offices. It was built on the same site as the former Edo Castle.
You can make an appointment on their website: https://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/about/koukyo.html
You can also make a walk-in appointment by bringing your passport to the Kikyo-mon gate. Numbered tickets will be distributed one hour before the tour starts.
How to get there: 7 minutes walk from Tokyo Station.
6 minutes from Tokyo Metro Nijubashimae Station (Chiyoda Line).
6 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Otemachi Station and Toei Subway.
A MUST-SEE!
06. Tokyo Station, discovering the underworld beneath it
The station was designed by architect Tatsuno Kingo after Amsterdam Station and was built between 1908 and 1914. During the Allied bombings of 1945 much of the station was damaged but it was rebuilt in 1949.
At rush hour the station is a hive of activity. However, no matter how much you go against the flow, you’ll never bump into anyone.
Underneath the station is a veritable underworld in the form of a shopping mall. Here you will find all kinds of shops and places to eat, such as the famous Tokyo Ramen Street, with several ramen shops.
Be patient as it is a real underground labyrinth.
Find out here all the places we ate during our trips to Japan.
A MUST-SEE!
07. Akihabara
Known as Akihabara Electric Town, it is one of the most popular shopping districts in Tokyo and throughout Japan.
A bit of history: In the Edo period, the area where Akihabara is located today was home to a number of low-quality weapons shops. As a result, fights and fires were frequent.
In 1870, the Chinka-jinja temple was built as a protection against fire. The citizens believed that it was consecrated to Akiba (a deity famous for helping to put out fires). They dubbed the area Akiba no Hara (Akiba’s Land).
Somewhere along the way, someone made a spelling mistake and changed the name from あきば は ら (Akiba Hara) to あき は ば ら (Akiha Bara).
This was the origin of the current name. Although it is still abbreviated to Akiba among the current population.
In Akihabara you’ll find restaurants, electronics shops large and small, maid cafes and above all, arcade buildings.
In these you can have a blast. You’ll see them hooked and having a blast on the hook machines trying to get freebies. They leave a real pile of money. At the skill machines you will be amazed because they are real PROs. It is said that they practice at home and go to the arcade to set records.
And let’s not forget one of the largest sex shops in the world. It has no less than 7 floors.
If you need any electronic gadgets don’t hesitate to buy them here. I bought a battery for the camera that cost me 40€ when in Spain it cost me 100€.
AN ESSENTIAL VISIT!
08. Strolling along the narrow torii path of the Hie Shrine
Hie Jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Oyamakui no Kami.
The origin of the shrine is uncertain. One theory is that it was built in 1478 by Ōta Dōkan. Another theory identifies the Hie with the Sannō Shrine mentioned in a 1362 record of the Kumano Nachi Taisha. What is known is that the shōgun Ieyasu relocated it to the grounds of the former Edo Castle.
In 1604 his son Tokugawa Hidetada moved it to the outskirts of the castle so that the people could have access to it.
The temple is pretty cool, but the real eye-catcher is the stairs leading up through a tunnel of red toriis. It’s like walking through the ultra-mini version of Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto.
Opening hours: from April to September from 05:00 to 18:00. / From October to March from 6:00 to 17:00.
Price: Free of charge.
How to get there: 5 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Tameike-sannō station (Ginza line / Namboku line).
4-minute walk from Metro Tokyo Akasaka-Mitsuke station (Ginza line / Marunouchi line).
RECOMMENDED VISIT!
09. Tokyo Daijingu Shrine, Japan’s most romantic shrine
This temple is where people go to pray to find love. And, if you’re lucky like us, you’ll coincide with a traditional wedding.
It is a rather discreet and small shrine, but if you have time to spare, it is worth the visit and ask for a little love (if you are single…).
It was built in 1888 as a dependent shrine of the Ise Grand Shrine (which we visited in 2018 / discover it here).
Opening hours: every day from 6:00 to 21:00.
Price: free of charge.
How to get there: 5 minutes walk from JR Iidabashi Station and Tokyo Metro.
Chūō (中央区)
Called Chūō City, it is Tokyo’s historic commercial centre. Although Shinjuku has taken over since the end of World War II.
10. Jardines Hama-Rikyu
Hama Rikyu is a traditional garden that was built as a residence for the Tokugawa family. They were later converted into a duck hunting ground.
It is known for its saltwater pond that enters directly from Tokyo Bay.
It is an impressive haven of tranquillity surrounded by the modern skyscrapers of the area.
Free umbrellas are provided at the entrance to mitigate the terrible Tokyo summer heat.
Opening hours: daily from 9:00 to 17:00 (last admission at 16:30).
Price: 300¥ / Over 65s 150¥ / Children free.
How to get there: the gardens have several gates:
Otemon Gate: Toei Oedo Line ‘Tsukiji Market’ (E18) ‘Shiodome’ (E19)/Yurikamome ‘Shiodome’ 7 minutes walk.
JR/Tokyo Subway Ginza Line/Toei Subway Asakusa Line ‘Shinbashi’ (G08/A10) 12 minutes walk.
Naka no Gomonguchi: Toei Oedo Line ‘Shiodome’ exit 10 exit 5 minutes walk.
Get off at JR ‘Hamamatsucho’ 15 minutes walk.
A MUST-SEE!
11. Ginza
It is a high-end shopping district. There are many flagship shops of high-end foreign brands, luxury clubs, upscale bars, luxury watch shops, department stores, etc…
The origin of the name Ginza comes from the silver mint (Ginza) which was established during the Edo period.
The Ginza Wako clock tower located at the same intersection has become a Ginza landmark.
12. Attending a traditional play at the Kabuki-za theatre
The Kabuki-za theatre (歌舞伎座) was built in 1889 by Genichiro Fukuchi and is the main kabuki theatre in Japan. Kabuki theatre is the traditional Japanese theatre dating back to the Edo Era.
In 1921 it was destroyed by fire. Reconstruction began in 1922 but could not be completed because the great earthquake of 1923 again destroyed what had already been done.
It was rebuilt in 1924, but was again destroyed during the bombings of the Second World War.
In 1950 it was rebuilt with the same design as in 1924, only to be demolished once again in 2010 and rebuilt as it is today in 2013 with the new anti-seismic measures. A beautiful story.
How to get there: Tokyo Metro Higashi-ginza station (Hibiya line / Asakusa line).
RECOMMENDED VISIT!
13. Tsukiji Hongwanji
Tsukiji Hongwan-ji Buddhist Temple (築地本願寺) is a branch temple of the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha denomination. Commonly known as Nishi Hongwanji, of which the Mother Temple, or Honzan, is located in Kyoto.
Its construction dates back to 1617 when Junnyo Shonin established a temple in Yokoyama-cho near Asakusa in Edo. In 1657 a fire destroyed the temple but the feudal lord Edo Bakufu refused permission to rebuild it on the same site. He did, however, cede the land on which it stands today.
During the great Kanto earthquake of 1923 the temple was again destroyed. It was rebuilt in stone between 1931 and 1934, this time in Indian style.
In the main hall there is an image of Amida Buddha standing which signifies that the Buddha is actively working in all of us.
Until the Tsukiji market closed, it was the perfect combination, with a good sushi meal to crown a visit to the area.
Opening hours: from 6:00 to 16:00.
Price: free.
How to get there: next to Tokyo Metro Tsukiji station (Hibiya line).
RECOMMENDED VISIT!
14. Crossing Nihonbashi Bridge
Its name literally means ‘Japanese Bridge’.
The first bridge was built in 1603 and was made of wood. It has been destroyed by earthquakes and wars on several occasions. The current one dates from 1911.
The bridge is beautiful, but the downside is that today it is under an elevated highway. This makes it difficult to see it properly.
How to get there: 5 minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Nihonbashi station and Toei Subway (Asakusa line, Ginza line, Tozai line).
10 minutes walk from Tokyo Station.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Katsushika (飾区)
The town of Katsushika was once a thriving industrial area. Small factories dotted the area. As you walked up the Arakawa River, you could see countless chimneys belching black smoke, a typical scene.
Today, the former factory sites have been converted into apartment complexes and shopping facilities, making it a small commercial district.
15. Tour the statues of Captain Tsubasa
In this neighbourhood, between Yotsugi and Tateishi stations, there are 7 statues related to the anime series Captain Tsubasa, very popular among the kids of my generation.
The creator Yōichi Takahashi was from this neighbourhood and they were put up as a tribute and, by the way, to attract a bit of tourism to the neighbourhood.
The entire neighbourhood is dedicated to football at every turn.
How to get there: Yotsugi Station or Tateishi Station on the private Keisei Line (JR Pass not valid).
A MUST-SEE FOR ANIME FANS!
Minato (港区)
Together with the districts of Chiyoda and Chuo, it is considered ‘central Tokyo’ or ‘three central districts of Tokyo’.
It is home to a large number of media and advertising agencies, such as broadcasting stations, IT company headquarters and Japanese branches of foreign companies, and plays a central role in the Japanese economy.
It was created in 1947 by merging the former Shiba district, the former Azabu district and the former Akasaka district.
16. Climbing Tokyo Tower
Built between 1957 and 1958, it was originally intended for television transmission, but in 1961 radio antennas were installed, so the tower is now used for both types of signals.
It is one of Tokyo’s main tourist attractions.
The tower has two observation decks. The Main Deck at 150 metres high and the top platform at 250 metres high offer an overview of Tokyo.
At the base there are shops and also the Tokyo One Piece tower. It is a permanent theme park dedicated to the One Piece manga.
Opening hours: Main deck from 9:00 to 22:30 (last entry at 22:00) / Top Deck from 9:00 to 22:45 (last entry at 22:00).
Price:
| Adult | Children | Preschool | |
| Main Deck | 1.200¥ | 700¥ | 500¥ |
| Top Deck (online)* | 2.800¥ | 1.800¥ | 1.200¥ |
| Top Deck (box office)* | 3.000¥ | 2.000¥ | 1.400.¥ |
How to get there: 5 min walk from Toei Subway Akabanebashi Station (Oedo line).
6 min walk from Toei Subway Onarimon Station (Toei Mita line). Exit A1.
7 min walk from Tokyo Metro Daimon Station (Hibiya line). Exit 1.
15 min walk from JR Hamamatsuchō station.
A MUST-SEE!
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17. Zojoji Temple
It was founded in 1393 as an orthodox and fundamental nembutsu seminary for Jodo shu in the Kanto region.
Zojoji was moved to the present site in 1598. It was after Ieyasu Tokugawa, founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, chose Edo (present-day Tokyo) in 1590 to establish his provincial government.
After the beginning of the Edo Period when the Tokugawa shogunate ruled Japan, Zojoji became the family temple of the Tokugawa family.
The sight of the temple, together with the Tokyo Tower, offers a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity.
A MUST-SEE!
18. Ghibli Clock
Installed at the headquarters of the NTV television station, the Ghibli clock is a must-see for all fans of the anime world of the Ghibli studios.
Its author is Hayao Miyazaki and it was installed in 2006. The clock is beautiful and if you can go to the show it puts on several times a day you will be amazed, especially at night.
| Monday to Friday | Saturdays and Sundays |
| 10:00 | |
| 12:00 | 12:00 |
| 13:00 | 13:00 |
| 15:00 | 15:00 |
| 18:00 | 18:00 |
| 20:00 | 20:00 |
Price: free
How to get there: 2 min walk from Toei Subway Shiodome station (Oedo line).
5 min walk from Shimbashi station with JR, Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines.
A MUST-SEE!
Nakano (中野区)
Nakano was created on October 1, 1932, with the merger of the towns of Nogata and Nakano, as part of the old city of Tokyo.
On 15 March 1947, Nakano became a special ward of the new Tokyo Metropolis.
Nakano is the birthplace of composer Ryuichi Sakamoto.
19. Nakano Broadway
Nakano Broadway is a shopping mall that is the mecca of manga and anime… frikiland for us. It’s full of comic shops and geeky stuff.
How to get there: 4 min walk from JR Nakano station and Toei subway (JR Chūō line, JR Chūō-Sōbu line, Tozai line).
Odaiba (お台場)
Odaiba (お台場) is an artificial island in Tokyo Bay connected to the city centre via the Rainbow Bridge. It was built in 1853 to defend the city and in the late 20th century it expanded due to commercial development.
It is now largely a place of leisure. There are two beaches where bathing is not allowed but where Japanese people go to spend the day.
To get to Odaiba, take the private Yurikamome line from Shiodome Station.
20. Visiting the Statue of Liberty… you read that right…
It was installed in 1998 to commemorate the friendship between Japan and France. It was intended to be temporary, but due to its popularity, it was decided to make it permanent.
How to get there: 5 min walk from Daiba Station (Yurikamome line).
A MUST-SEE!
21. Watching the illumination of the Rainbow Bridge at nightfall
The Rainbow Bridge is a suspension bridge over the northern part of Tokyo Bay and belongs to the special Minato district.
It was opened in 1993 and has a length of 570 metres.
There are lamps on the cables that support the bridge, which light up in different colours, red, white and green every night, powered by solar energy obtained during the day.
How to get there: you can see it in all its splendour next to the Statue of Liberty.
A MUST-SEE!
22. Enjoy the Gundam Unicorn show next to DiverCity Tokyo Plaza
It is one of the main attractions in Odaiba. Every self-respecting geek should stop by.
From 2012 to 2017, an RX-78-2 Mobile Suit Gundam was located in the square. This was replaced by an RX-0 Unicorn Gundam which is still here.
It is a spectacular sculpture almost 20 metres high on which a small show is performed every day.
During the day we can see the show at 11:00／13:00／15:00／17:00. It changes from Destroy Mode to Unicorn Mode.
In the evening the timetable is 19:00 / 19:30 / 20:00 / 20:30 / 21:00 / 21:30. A sound and light show is performed here and images are projected.
Price: free of charge.
23. Seeing the futuristic Fuji TV building
The impressive building was built between 1993 and 1996 by architect Kenzo Tange.
The structure consists of an office tower and a media tower connected by three enclosed walkways. The exterior is clad with salt-resistant titanium.
On the first floor is a shopping centre and a roof garden on the 7th floor. But the star of the show is the Hachitama Spherical Observation Hall, located on the 25th floor. From here we can enjoy beautiful views of Tokyo Bay.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00.
Price: Entrance to the building is free. The Hachitama observation deck costs 500¥.
Setagaya (世田谷区)
The special ward of Setagaya was established in 1947. With almost 900,000 inhabitants, it is the most populous special ward in Tokyo.
24. Learn about the history of Maneki Neko at Gōtokuji Temple
Goutoku-ji is a Buddhist temple of the Sōtō School. It was founded in 1480 by the Li family of the Hikone clan.
In addition to the Gotokuji Li Family Cemetery there are many cultural heritage sites related to the Li Family, including the Buddhist temple and the Bell. The cemetery is a nationally designated historical site.
Legend has it that Maneki-neko (招き猫) originated here.
In the 17th century. One day the feudal lord Naotaka Li, who was hunting, was caught in a terrible storm.
He took shelter under a tree. A while later, he saw a cat beckoning him with its right paw to approach the temple.
Moved by curiosity, Naotaka Li approached the cat and, just at that moment, lightning struck the tree, destroying it.
In gratitude for saving his life, Naotaka Li helped with the financing of the temple, which was then in ruins.
Since then Maneki-neko (招き猫) has been a symbol of good luck in Japan (and almost all over the world).
There, apart from visiting the pavilions, you can buy a Maneki-neko at the temple offices.
You can leave it as an offering or take it home. I bought two. A small one to leave as an offering and a larger one that I keep in my business.
The pavilion where the maneki-neko are left as offerings is really spectacular. Not only because of its beauty and the surroundings, but also because of the number of maneki-neko left as offerings.
Opening hours: every day from 6:00 to 17:00.
Price: free of charge.
How to get there: 4 min walk from Miyanosaka Station. Tokyu-Setagaya tram line.
A MUST-SEE!
25. Tokyu – Setagaya tramway line
This is one of the two remaining active tram lines in Tokyo. It has stops at several interesting points.
It is best to buy a day pass for 330¥.
How to get there: the departure station is Sangenjaya.
26. Admiring a different view of Tokyo from Carrot Tower
The Carrot Tower is the tallest tower in Setagaya at 124 metres. On the 25th floor there is a free 360º observation deck with spectacular views.
From here we can admire different views of Tokyo in which few tourists will find.
It also has a restaurant with views, shops and even a theatre.
Opening hours: every day from 7:00 to 22:00.
Price: free of charge.
How to get there: directly connected to Sangenjaya Station on the Tokyu Denentoshi and Setagaya lines.
RECOMMENDED VISIT!
Shibuya (渋谷区)
Shibuya is a neighbourhood dedicated mainly to shopping and entertainment. It is particularly popular with young Tokyoites.
It is best known for Shibuya Crossing, the busiest crossing in the world. It is also known for its many shopping malls such as Shibuya 109, which is very popular with young people, especially teenagers. It is famous for being the origin of the Kogal subculture.
27. Crossing at the famous Shibuya Crossing
Is there anyone who hasn’t heard of the Shibuya Crossing? It is the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. Almost 2,500,000 people cross it EVERY DAY! That’s more than 10 times the total population of Granada, the city where I live.
How to get there: next to the Jr Shibuya station exit (Yamanote line among others).
A MUST-SEE!
28. Take a photo with Hachiko
Hachiko was a little dog who became famous because every day he accompanied his owner to the train station on his way to work. But one day he died and never came back. So the dog waited for his return for several years until his death.
How to get there: next to Shibuya Station.
A MUST-SEE!
29. Admiring the view from the Shibuya Hikarie Building
The Shibuya Hikarie building is an impressive 34-storey shopping and cultural centre.
From the 11th to the 16th floor is the Tokyo Theater Orb, a theatre that seats almost 2,000 people.
From the door there is a huge glass window overlooking the famous Shibuya crossing, which is also free of charge.
Opening hours: every day from 11:00 to 21:00.
Price: free of charge.
How to get there: next to the east exit of Shibuya Station.
RECOMMENDED VISIT!
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30. Strolling along Takeshita Dori, the world’s geekiest street
Takeshita Dori is a pedestrian street lined with fashion shops, restaurants and cafes. Most of the shops are small, quirky fashion boutiques where you will be amazed by the outfits on display.
You may also find some Japanese tourists dressed in some of these outfits.
How to get there: next to the Takeshita exit of JR Harajuku station (Yamanote line).
A MUST-SEE!
31. Breathing the tranquillity of the Togo Sanctuary
Tōgō Shrine is a Shinto shrine built in 1940. It is dedicated to Gensui, the marquis Tōgō Heihachirō shortly after his death.
It was destroyed during the bombing of Tokyo but rebuilt in 1964.
You can walk through the beautiful gardens and climb up to the main pavilions. It’s hard to believe that this haven of peace is located next to such bustling areas as Takeshita or Omotesandō.
Opening hours: every day from 6:00 to 17:00.
Price: free of charge.
How to get there: after walking along Takeshita Dori, turn left.
32. Meiji Shrine
The Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken.
After the emperor’s death in 1912, the Diet (government) of Japan passed a resolution to commemorate his role in the Meiji Restoration. Construction began in 1915 and was completed in 1920 with its consecration.
It was destroyed during the bombings of World War II, but was rebuilt in 1958.
Opening hours: daily from 5.20am to 5.20pm.
Price: free of charge.
How to get there: next to JR Harajuku station (Yamanote line). 1 min walk from Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae ‘Harajuku’ station (Chiyoda line / Fukutoshin line).
A MUST-SEE!
33. Strolling through Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park is one of the largest parks in Tokyo. The park is bustling with activity. Especially on Sundays when it is used as a meeting place for people who want to play music, practice martial arts and other activities. Famous are the rockabilly rallies.
How to get there: next to JR Harajuku station (Yamanote line). 1 min walk from Tokyo Metro Meiji-jingumae ‘Harajuku’ station (Chiyoda line / Fukutoshin line).
RECOMMENDED VISIT!
34. See the luxury shops in Omotesandō
Omotesandō is an exclusive shopping district. It is known as one of the most important ‘architectural showcases’ in the world. It contains a large number of luxury shops, such as Louis Vuitton, Prada, Tod’s, Dior, Omotesandō Hills or Gyre.
It’s not uncommon to see luxury cars that few can afford…
How to get there: Tokyo Metro Omote-Sando station.
35. Love Hotels façades
Love Hotel Hill is located in the heart of Shibuya. Love Hotels offer rooms, most of the time themed, which are rented by the hour or for the whole night.
They are rooms to… rest a little, in which we can find all kinds of sex toys and related objects. So we can have a good rest…
Dogenzaka is the area with the highest concentration of this type of hotels in Japan and walking around here is something really curious if you have enough time to spare.
Shinjuku (新宿区)
Shinjuku is Tokyo’s most important commercial and administrative centre. Its name means ‘new inn’.
Its train station is the busiest in the world. More than 3 million passengers pass through it every day.
36. Take in the views from the top of the Metropolitan Government Building
It is a gigantic modern building opened in 1991. From where all districts of the Tokyo metropolitan area are governed.
In one of the towers there is a 200-metre high observation deck that is completely free of charge. All you have to do is go through a fairly strict security check and up you go.
The views are 360º and in each window you have a panel with the most significant buildings marked. On clear days you can see Mount Fuji.
Opening hours: from 9:30 to 23:00.
Price: free of charge.
How to get there: 2 min walk from Toei Subway Tochomae Station (Oedo Line).
5 min walk from JR Shinjuku Station.
A MUST-SEE!
37. Kabukichō
Kabukichō is known as Tokyo’s red light district. It is full of bars, hostels, motels, shops, restaurants and nightclubs. Both for women and men.
It’s full of very tough public relations people who are not to be messed with.
The neighbourhood is said to be controlled by the Yakuza, the Japanese mafia. It is not supposed to be very safe, but we have never noticed anything.
Here you will also find Golden Gai Alley, a narrow alley lined with bars and izakayas, perfect for a drink before going to bed.
A MUST-SEE!
Sumida (墨田区)
It is a largely residential neighbourhood, although it is home to some of Japan’s largest companies such as Asahi Brewers.
It was founded on 15 March 1947 after the merger of the Honjo and Mukojima neighbourhoods.
38. Admiring the view from Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree is the main telecommunications tower that replaced Tokyo Tower. Built between 2008 and 2012, it is the tallest building in Tokyo at 634 metres. The tower has two observation decks offering 360° views.
The Tokyo Skytree Tembo Deck is 350 metres high. The Tokyo Skytree Tembo Galleria is at 450 metres and the views will take your breath away.
Opening hours: every day from 10:00 to 21:00.
Price:
| Tembo Deck | Tembo Deck + Gallery | |
| Advance sales | 1.800¥ | 2.700¥ |
| Daytime sales | 2.100¥ | 3.100¥ |
How to get there: next to Tokyo Skytree station (Tobu Skytree line).
Next to Oshiage – Skytree station of Toei Subway (Asakusa line / Hanzomon line).
RECOMMENDED VISIT!
39. Taking a photo with the Dorado poo
The Asahi Beer Hall is a rather… peculiar building. It was built in 1989 by the French architect Philippe Starck.
For the building Starck was inspired by a beer mug, hence the golden colour of the beer crowned by its foam on top.
Next to it is the Flamme D’Or, representing the ‘fiery heart of Asahi beer’ and the foam of a beer glass.
It looks like a big golden turd to both us and the Japanese. They call it kin no unko (金のうんこ) or golden poo.
How to get there: to get a good photo, it is best to get to Asakusa station on the Tokyo Metro / Toei Subway (Asakusa line / Ginza line).
40. Take a cruise on the Sumida River
Like all cities we visit with a river, we like to take a river cruise to get a different perspective of the city.
The Sumida River cruise shows you the deeper side of Tokyo, the side you don’t see in the guidebooks or on a walk. It is not particularly beautiful but it is really interesting.
For information on fares, check the official website: https://www.suijobus.co.jp/en/price/
Taitō (台東区)
Taitō was established on 15 March 1947 and is the district in which the spectacular Ueno Park is located. The Ueno district was the site of the battle where the imperial forces defeated the last holdout of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1868.
Taitō is home to the Sumidagawa fireworks festival, the Asakusa samba carnival, and the Sanja Matsuri festival, one of Tokyo’s three major festivals.
41. Strolling around Senso-ji Temple
Sensō-ji temple is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo and one of the most important. Founded in 645, it is dedicated to Kannon, the deity of mercy.
Legend has it that it was built when two brothers found a statue of Kannon in the Sumida River in the 7th century. It was decided to enshrine her in a small temple so that all the inhabitants could worship her.
The temple gained popularity over the years, so much so that the Shōgun Tokugawa Iemitsu (1604 – 1651) built the vast majority of the buildings that make up the temple complex we see today.
Price: free.
How to get there: Tokyo Metro Asakusa Station Exit 3 / Toei Subway (Asakusa line / Ginza line).
A MUST-SEE!
42. Crossing the Kaminarimon Gate or Thunder Gate
It is the outer gate of the temple and a symbol of Tokyo. It was built in 942 although it was originally located elsewhere. It was moved to its current location in 1635, which is believed to be when the statues of Raijin and Fūjin were added. These are the gods of thunder and wind.
The gate has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, the current one dating from 1960.
The star of the gate is its gigantic chōchin, a huge paper and bamboo lamp 4 metres high and more than 3 metres in circumference.
The chōchin is actually a 2003 reconstruction donated by the Panasonic company.
A MUST-SEE!
43. Buying some souvenirs on Nakamise Street
As we cross the Kaminarimon gate, we enter the Nakamise shopping street. It is a 250-metre long street with 89 small shops selling traditional sweets and souvenirs. If you go there in summer, don’t forget your melonpan filled with ice cream…
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44. Strolling for hours in Ueno Park
Ueno Park is a large and popular park in the northeast of Tokyo. It is home to many tourist attractions such as the zoo with its panda bears, museums and temples.
The Ueno district was the site of the battle where the imperial forces defeated the last holdout of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1868.
Ueno Park was created on the site of the battle and converted into a public park in 1873. Emperor Taishō Tennō donated the park to the city of Tokyo in 1924.
Opening hours: daily from 5:00 to 23:00.
How to get there: next to JR Ueno Station (Yamanote line) and Tokyo Metro.
A MUST-SEE!
45. The spectacular Ueno Shrine Tōshō-gū
Ueno Tōshō-gū Shrine was built in 1627 by Tōdō Takatora. It has remained largely intact since Tokugawa Iemitsu’s renovation in 1651.
The shrines of Tōshō-gū are characterised by enshrining Tokugawa Ieyasu with the name Tōshō Daigongen.
The main shrine, mostly gilded with colourfully sculpted dragons and animals, is a real beauty.
Opening hours: October to February from 9:00 to 16:30 / March to September from 9:00 to 17:30.
Price: 500¥.
How to get there: inside Ueno Park.
A MUST-SEE!
46. Admiring the Five-Story Kan’ei-ji Pagoda
Adjacent to Ueno Tōshō-gū Shrine is the five-storey pagoda of the former Kyū Kaneiji Gojūnotō Temple.
The first pagoda was built by Toshikatsu Doi in 1631 (8th year of Kanei) as part of the Ueno Toshogu Shrine, but was destroyed by fire in 1639 (16th year of Kanei).
In the same year, Munehiro Koura, who was the chief builder of Sakujikata in the Shogunate, rebuilt the present pagoda.
47. Taking a boat ride on Shinobazu Pond
It is a large natural pond and is the remnant of ancient marshes that covered most of the former Shitamachi. Its present name was already in use in the 15th century.
The shape of the pond until the beginning of the Meiji Era was very different from today, particularly the northern part where Ueno Zoo is located, which was much wider.
In 1884 a horse racing cooperative wanted to open a racetrack and partially filled in the pond, giving it its present shape and size. Races were held there until 1892.
48. Stroll through Yanaka Cemetery Park
Yanaka Cemetery Park is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Tokyo. It is home to the tombs of illustrious figures such as Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the last shogun of the Edo period, as well as famous painters, politicians and actors.
How to get there: next to JR Nippori station (Yamanote line) and Tokyo Metro.
RECOMMENDED VISIT!
49. Shopping at the Ameyoko Street market
The Ameyoko Street Market is very popular with tourists. It used to be a street with fish stalls. Nowadays, there is a wide variety of shops selling a wide range of goods including clothes and other foodstuffs.
How to get there: Ameyoko Street is located between JR Ueno and Okachimachi stations (Yamanote line).
Extra
50. Visiting a Daiso or a Don Quijote
The Daiso chain shop is the most popular 100-yen shop in Japan. You can find everything from cutlery to food. You can browse through thousands of curious and quirky knick-knacks. And I’m telling you, you won’t be able to leave without buying something. You’re sure to pick something up.
Don Quijote (or Donki) is a chain of shops with a wide variety of products and good prices. Their mascot is a blue penguin with a sleeping cap, not a Father Christmas hat.
You will see that they are always packed to the rafters with people and you will have a hard time finding things if you are looking for something specific because they are piled up, for me, without order or order.
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