Places to Visit and the Best Things to Do in Tokyo

Updated on Travel in Japan

Tokyo in the evening.

Whether you plan to visit Tokyo as a tourist, for business, or to live there, this insider’s guide to Tokyo is for you. As an insider living in Tokyo for a long, I will let you know about the places and activities that a tourist should not miss while planning to discover Tokyo.

Tokyo: A City with Things to Do for Every Age Group and Taste

Tokyo, being the largest metropolis by population and having a long and rich history, offers a wide variety of places for tourists to discover and things to do.

Almost everyone knows about famous attractions like Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, etc. However, Tokyo has many other places to discover for experiencing culture, outdoor adventures, dining, and shopping.

Many people think of Tokyo as a concrete jungle and are not wrong. However, with my long experience living in this city, if you explore deeper, you will find that Tokyo is a metropolis where every age group and every interest can find something enjoyable to do. Although there are many skyscrapers and crowded areas, Tokyo also has its quiet and traditional sides.

Among the concrete jungle of high-rise buildings, many very old temples and lush green gardens reflect the city’s history. From places like Bunkyo Ward with a traditional atmosphere to ultramodern areas like Ginza and Roppongi, etc., Tokyo is a modern city with amazing contrasts. If you plan your trip to Tokyo well, you will find that Tokyo is full of different experiences and has something special for every age group and every taste.

So, let me talk about exploring Tokyo for its must-do things and places to visit to know and enjoy this city better. You may also like to read about the Kids-friendly places in Tokyo and Japan.

(Note: All images used in this article are licensed from www.depositphotos.com)

Akihabara: From Latest in Electronics to Otaku Culture

Akihabara JR station Exit in Tokyo.
Image source: Depositphotos.com

If you are visiting Tokyo, saying “No” to visit Akihabara is certainly a BIG No!!!

Akihabara, also called “Akiba,” can also be referred to as the electronics capital of not just Tokyo but Japan. Moreover, Akihabara is also famous for the lovers of otaku culture. For people interested in electronics, video games, or Japanese pop culture, including manga and anime, Akihabara is certainly not a place to miss.

However, even if you are not interested in any of the above, let me assure you that you will love Akihabara for its atmosphere of refreshing energy. Let’s see how to reach Akihabara and what you can do there.

Train Access to Akihabara

Akihabara is centrally located in the Chiyoda ward of Tokyo and 2 stations away from Tokyo on the JR Yamanote or JR Keihin-Tohoku Lines.

The following train connectivity makes Akihabara very conveniently accessible from all important locations in Tokyo:

What All You Can Do in Akihabara

From my experience, the following are the best things you can do in Akihabara district of Tokyo:

Anime and Manga Shops:

Akihabara is known for many stores selling everything related to anime and manga. Places like Animate, Mandarake, and Comic Toranoana have a large variety of manga, anime DVDs, merchandise, and collectibles.

You can also find a lot of second-hand goods in excellent condition if you’re looking for rare items or trying to keep your budget in check.

Electronic Shops:

Akiba started as a district for electronics post-WW-II and still maintains that heritage.

If you are interested in electronics, Akihabara is a place you would not like to miss. Whether you wish to explore or buy the latest electronics items or look for second-hand items or replacement electronic parts that you have not been able to find anywhere else, Akihabara is the place for you.

The largest Electronics Stores in Akihabara

Apart from the largest electronics retailer in Japan, Yodobashi Camera’s flagship store, you can visit the following large electronics stores:

Apart from these, you will have countless mid-sized electronic stores and small shops to find what you wish in electronics and electrical items.

Game Centers:

Arcades are a significant part of Japanese pop culture, and Akihabara has some of the best. Venues like Sega Akihabara and Taito Station are multi-floor buildings with video games, claw machines, purikura (photo sticker booths), and more.

Maid Cafes:

Akihabara is the birthplace of the “maid cafe,” where servers dress up in maid costumes and treat patrons in a role-play scenario. You can enjoy the informal atmosphere of these cafes by watching the servers’ performances, chatting with them, and playing games with them. It’s a unique experience that emerged from otaku culture.

Themed Cafes and Stores:

Akihabara also has many other themed cafes and stores. Some of such famous themed cafes are as follows:

Gachapon Kaikan:

Gachapon is a term for a capsule toy dispensed from vending machines. They are especially favorites among children. Gachapon Kaikan has hundreds of Gachapon vending machines, each dispensing a unique set of capsule toys.

Map of Above Akihabara Places to Visit

Yanaka (谷中): Experience The Charm of Old Tokyo

Enmei-ji Temple in Yanaka, Tokyo - Japan.

Yanaka district is in Tokyo’s Taito ward. It is famous for its old Tokyo atmosphere with quiet streets, traditional buildings, and many temples.

The name Yananka (谷中) consists of two Kanji 谷 (valley) and 中 (Inside), which means inside a valley. You will certainly enjoy the experience of being outside Tokyo in this most traditional part of Tokyo while being in modern and bustling Tokyo.

Train Access to Yanaka

Yanaka does not have its own station but is 8-minute walk from Nippori station and 6 minutes from Sendagi station. Following are the trains which you can take to reach Yanaka:

Access to Nippori Station:

Access to Sendagi Station:

Things to Do in Yanaka

Following are the places and activities you can enjoy in the Yanaka district of Tokyo:

Yanaka Cemetery:

Yanaka Cemetery is one of Tokyo’s largest and most famous cemeteries, with a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere in which to enjoy a break from the fast-paced life of Tokyo. Though this place is charming throughout the year, you will enjoy its beauty more during the Sakura (cherry blossom) season, with its central path lined with cherry blossom trees.

Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street:

Unlike Ginza-Dori Street in Ginza, which is famous for its glamorous upscale modern shopping and dining experiences, the Yanaka Ginza shopping street holds the old-town charm. It’s a great place to buy traditional goods and enjoy street food like grilled unagi (eel) skewers or sweet potato chips.

Local Temples and Shrines:

The Yanaka area was built as a temple town in the Edo period. Therefore, this traditional and historical district has many temples and shrines. Some of the famous temples that are worth visiting to appreciate the historical atmosphere in Yanaka are Tennōji, Jōmyōin, Rinkōji, Enjuji Nikkadō, and Daienji.

Art Galleries in Yanaka:

Historically, Yanaka, with its temples and shrines, was also home to many famous artists and writers, including Fumio Asakura. The area still keeps its artistic side alive with many small art galleries and workshops.

I would recommend two places to appreciate its connection with art: the Asakura Museum of Sculpture and SCAI The Bathhouse. The Asakura Museum of Sculpture was the home of the artist Fumio Asakura and displays his Western-style sculptures, and SCAI The Bathhouse was earlier a bathhouse which was converted into an art gallery.

However, there are several other art galleries in Yanaka that you will find interesting. Some of these galleries are Space Oguraya, Gallery Necomachi, Gallery Okubo, and Edokoro Allan West.

Kayaba Coffee House:

Kayaba Coffee House is located in a building built in 1916. However, the Kayaba coffee house was established in this building in 1938. During this long history, it was closed for approximately 3 years from 2006 to 2009, and is a popular place among locals and visitors alike.

If you are in Yanaka, Kayaba coffee house is one of the places to visit for experiencing Japan’s old kissaten (喫茶店) or cafe culture.

(Note: The word Kissaten has three Kanji 喫 (smoke), 茶 (Tea), and 店 (shop). The combination of these kanji characters means a shop where you can enjoy tea, coffee, and smoking.)

Hebi-Michi (Snake Road):

Hebi-Michi (へび道), or the Snake Road, is a narrow, winding 150-meter-long street with many old houses, cafes, and boutiques. By taking a walk on Hebi-Michi, you can experience the old and traditional Japanese atmosphere .

Kagurazaka: Blend of Traditional and Modern Cultures

Akagi Shinto shrine in Kagurazaka, Tokyo.

Kagurazaka is a unique area in Tokyo to experience the combination of traditional and modern Japanese culture with a significantFrench influence.

In the early 20th century, Kagurazaka was famous as an entertainment district. During that time this area had several geisha houses. Even today, Kagurazaka maintains some of those old flavors and some of those geisha houses are still there.

Train Access to Kagurazaka

You can reach Kagurazaka either from Iidabashi Station or Kagurazaka Station. The 5 options for trains to go to for these two stations are as follows:

Things to Do in Kagurazaka, Tokyo

Following are the popular places in Kagurazaka and also some activities you can enjoy there:

Kagurazaka Street:

Kagurazaka’s main street has a lot of restaurants, cafes, and shops for traditional Japanese goods and foods. Moreover, you can find many French eateries, bakeries, and patisseries because of the area’s very high concentration of French expatriates.

Traditional Side of Kagurazaka in the Back Alleys:

If you are interested in experiencing the traditional atmosphere of Tokyo, you will certainly like the narrow back alleys of Kagurazaka with temples, small boutiques, and small cafes.

Akagi Shrine:

Akagi shrine has a long history dating back to 1300. However, this shrine was moved to its current location in 1555. This shrine was renovated in 2010 to give this traditional structure a modern touch.

The Akagi Shrine complex also has a modern Italian cafe named Akagi Cafe, where you can take a coffee break and relax.

Check this Google map for the directions to Akagi Shrine.

Bishamonten Zenkoku-Ji Temple:

The Bishamonten Zenkoku-Ji Temple was built by the first shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu, in 1595. The temple was moved to its current location after approximately 200 years, and it is one of the most significant landmarks in Kagurazaka.

Dining:

Kagurazaka offers various dining options. You can find several high-end kaiseki restaurants and small izakayas (Japanese casual drinking restaurants). Apart from the Japanese eating joints, there are several French restaurants and wine bars due to the high concentration of French expats here.

Cultural Events and Performances:

The Kagurazaka Oedo Tourist Information Center organizes various cultural events and performances throughout the year. If you plan to visit Kagurazaka, it is good to check their event calendar to see if they have something of interest scheduled for during the time of your visit.

Traditional Ryotei in Kagurazaka:

Ryotei (料亭) are traditional restaurants in Japan where you can eat while watching geisha performances. In the old days, these restaurants were meeting places for business people and political leaders with regular clientele, and one could become a client only if referred by existing clients.

However, things have changed, and some Ryotei restaurants accept new customers without any referral. If you wish to visit a Ryotei, it is advisable to call them to make a reservation. Following are 4 Ryotei in Kagurazaka:

  1. Uotoku
  2. Kagurazaka Maeda
  3. Kagurazaka Sanga
  4. Yukimoto

Shopping at Maeda-an:

Maeda-an is a store specializing in traditional Japanese tea, tea ceremony items, incense, and other traditional goods. It’s a worth visiting place for people interested in the Japanese tradition of tea and tea ceremonies.

Cooking Classes:

If you are interested in learning about Japanese cooking, Kagurazaka has several places to take cooking lessons to prepare traditional Japanese dishes. You can find some of these places here.

Kiyosumi Gardens:

Kiyosumi garden with stone path in water and tea house.

Kiyosumi Gardens (Kiyosumi Teien, 清澄庭園) is a traditional Japanese garden designed around a large pond in Tokyo’s Koto Ward. It’s a place to relax and enjoy nature in the heart of this busy city.

Kiyosumi Garden was originally built during the Meiji Period in 1880 by the founder of Mitsubishi Corporation, Iwasaki Yataro. It was a place for the employees of Mitsubishi to relax and to entertain important guests. This garden was opened to the public in 1932 after the Mitsubishi group of companies handed it over to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

Train Access to Kiyosumi Gardens

Kiyosumi Gardens is a 3-minute walk from Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station. The train options to reach this station are as follows:

Please note that you can also access Kiyosumi Gardens by Toei Bus Line to JR Kameido Station (North Exit) or the Toyomi-suisan-futo bus to “Kiyosumiteien-mae.”

Kiyosumi Garden Features

People often call the Kiyosumi Gardens the most beautiful garden in Tokyo, and if you love gardens, then you may probably agree. Following are some of the main features of this garden:

Stepping Stone Paths:

One of the garden’s unique features is the “Iso-Watari,” a stepping stone path that leads across the shallow waters of the pond. Walking on these, you can see the fishes, turtles, and waterflows more closely.

Ryotei Teahouse:

Right in the middle of the garden, there is a Ryotei teahouse where you can stop and rest to have Japanese tea and snacks. This tea house is housed in a traditional Japanese-style building overlooking the pond. However, calling them in advance to make a booking is recommended.

Birdwatching:

If you have an interest in bird watching, you will probably find Kiyosumi Gardens the best place in Tokyo to watch a large variety of bird species.

Rock Landscapes:

Kiyosumi Gardens has more than 55 different types of rocks from all over Japan. These rocks, used for the garden’s landscaping, are one of its main features.

Flower Viewing:

Depending on the season, you can enjoy various flowers such as plum and cherry blossoms, azaleas, and irises.

Tsukiji Fish Market’s Outer Market

Sea food shops in Tsukiji fish market, Tokyo.

Everyone who is familiar with Tokyo and most who have read Tokyo guidebooks is familiar with the name “Tsukiji Fish Market.” This is obviously because Tsukiji Fish Market had the reputation of being the world’s largest wholesale fish and seafood market before the wholesale market moved to Toyosu.

While the inner wholesale market has moved to Toyosu and is now twice the size of the old wholesale seafood market of Tsukiji, the outer market of Tsukiji is still open to the public.

Train Access to Tsukiji Fish Market

Tsukiji Fish Market is conveniently accessible by four metro trains as follows:

The following are some more details about what you can do at Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market’s Outer Market:

Food Stalls and Restaurants:

The outer market of Tsukiji has many food stalls and restaurants that serve fresh seafood, including sushi and seafood bowls (donburi). You can also find many stalls that sell tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelets), grilled seafood, and other Japanese delicacies, including Japanese pickles, sweets, and snacks.

Shop for Kitchenware and Groceries:

Apart from eating joints, including street food, you can also find shops in Tsujiji’s outer market selling high-quality Japanese kitchen knives, tea, seaweed, and other cooking essentials. Moreover, apart from the seafood, there are vendors who sell fresh produce like fruits and vegetables.

Tsukiji Honganji Temple:

Located just a few steps from the Tsukiji market, the Tsukiji Honganji Temple is a popular place. This temple is famous for its unique ancient Indian-style Buddhist architecture. The temple complex also has restaurants, a tea lounge, and its official shop. You can check the official website of the temple in English here.

Namiyoke Inari Shrine:

The Namiyoke Inari Shrine (波除稲荷神社) is a Shinto shrine built in the 16th century and has an interesting history. Historically, this shrine is believed to be the protector from disasters, and even today, traders of the Tsukiji market consider it their guardian shrine.

Sushi and Japanese Food-Making Classes:

Near the Tsukiji fish market, several places conduct cooking classes to teach making sushi and other Japanese food, including Tenpura. These cooking classes could be a great way to learn about Japanese cuisine. These classes include Tsukiji Cooking, Earth Kitchen, and Tokyo Sushi Academy. You can locate more cooking classes in Tsukiji here.

Sake Breweries in Tokyo

Inside of a Sake Brewery in Tokyo.

Sake is the original Japanese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. There are several sake breweries in and around Tokyo where visitors can learn about the traditional process of making it.

Following are some of the popular sake breweries in Tokyo that you can visit to experience the process of brewing sake:

Ishikawa Brewery:

The Ishikawa Brewery is in the western part of Tokyo in Fussa City. Ishikawa Brewery has been in operation since 1863 and offers tours where you can learn about the sake brewing process and the brewery’s history. There’s also a tasting session where you can try different types of sake.

Ozawa Brewery:

Ozawa Brewery in Ome City in the western part of Tokyo has been producing sake since 1702 and is known for its Sawanoi brand. The Ozawa Brewery allows a free tour of the facility. Moreover, you may also get an English guide if you book in advance. During this tour, you can also taste their sake.

Moreover, Ozawa Brewery is in a scenic area near the Tama River, and you can enjoy the scenery outside the brewery as well.

Tokyo Port Brewery:

The Tokyo Port Brewery, near the Tokyo Bay area, makes sake as well as beer. Like Ozawa Brewery, they also offer tours of their facility that include sake tasting.

Please note that the tour of the facilities will require a reservation, and hence, it is recommended to check the breweries’ official websites and contact them to confirm the availability of tours.

Flea Markets in Tokyo

Flea Market at Yoyogi Park in Harajuku,Tokyo.

Visiting the flea markets in Tokyo is a good experience if you are interested in various household traditional Japanese items. You can find various goods in these markets, from vintage clothes and antiques to local crafts.

Moreover, these markets also have stalls for delicious Japanese street food. Most flea markets in Tokyo are normally held on weekends or specific dates each month. Some flea markets take place around major shrines during the New Year.

Following are a few popular flea markets in Tokyo:

Ohi Racecourse Flea Market:

The Ohi Racecourse is in Shinagawa. The Ohi Racecourse Flea Market, also known as the Tokyo City Flea Market, occurs on weekends. This Flea Market is one of the biggest in the city, with several hundred vendors on a good day.

Mottainai Flea Market:

‘Mottainai’ is a Japanese term to express regret at wasting anything and is a fitting name for a Flea market.

These Mottainai Flea Markets are not held at a fixed location; rather, they take place at different locations in Tokyo, generally in parks. They publish their flea market schedule on their event calendar, and you can check it here.

Setagaya Boroichi Market:

Held in Setagaya, Setagaya Boroichi Market has been taking place for over 400 years and is designated an intangible folk cultural asset of Tokyo. It takes place annually on December 15-16 and January 15-16, where you can find antiques, clothes, food, plants, and many other items.

Shinjuku Chuo Park Flea Market:

Shinjuku Chuo Park Flea Market is a relatively small flea market held in Shinjuku’s central park. It’s a great place to find vintage clothing and handmade crafts.

Hanazono Shrine Antique Market:

If you are interested in antiques, the Hanazono Shrine Antique Market is a good place to find them. This Flea Market is held on Sundays at the Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku.

Please note that the schedules of flea markets are subject to change depending on the weather. There are some flea markets that may not operate during winter, and some may close on rainy days.

Moreover, vendors are local people, and most do not speak English. Therefore, knowing a few basic Japanese phrases would be handy.

Google Map for Tokyo’s Main Flea Markets

Art Museums and Galleries in Roppongi

Giant spider outside Mori Art Meseum in Roppongi.

Roppongi district of Tokyo is quite famous among foreigners. While Roppongi and its neighborhood have several foreign embassies, Roppongi is also a business district with offices of companies like Google, Apple, Barclays, Mercari, and many more.

It is a contrast that while Roppongi is very famous for its nightlife, it also features several art museums and galleries. So, if you are an art lover, it is a place to visit.

Train Access to Roppongi

You can reach Roppongi Station using one of the following two train lines:

Art Museums and Galleries in Roppongi

Here are some activities and places you can explore in Roppongi:

Roppongi Art Triangle:

The Roppongi Art Triangle has the following three museums:

  1. Mori Art Museum
  2. National Art Center, Tokyo
  3. Suntory Museum of Art

These three museums are within walking distance of each other and showcase art items from Japan and other countries. The art display ranges from traditional Japanese artworks to modern, innovative installations.

Mori Art Museum:

Mori Art Museum is on the 53rd floor of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower. This museum generally hosts art exhibitions with a focus on contemporary Asian artists. However, it also hosts a wide range of exhibits in all categories.

The ticket for the Mori Art Museum also allows an entry to the Tokyo City View observation deck on the 52nd floor of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower for a great view of Tokyo from 250 meters above sea level.

The National Art Center, Tokyo:

The National Art Center is the largest museum in Japan. This museum hosts various temporary visual arts exhibitions. Apart from the art exhibition, you will also admire the great modern architecture of the building, designed by Kisho Kurokawa.

Suntory Museum of Art:

Suntory Museum of Art focuses on traditional Japanese art. However, it also hosts various temporary exhibitions.

Roppongi Art Night:

Apart from the above-mentioned museums, Roppongi also holds a biannual event called Roppongi Art Night. Various art installations, performances, and workshops are held during these events.

21_21 Design Sight:

The name 21_21 Design Sight is based on the mission to have a museum that offers things beyond the 20/20 vision of eyes. This museum was established by Fashion designer Issey Miyake and architect Tadao Ando in 2007. The focus of the museum is on design in everyday life. Apart from the permanent exhibits, this museum also hosts various exhibitions throughout the year.

Art Galleries in Roppongi:

Apart from the major museums, the Roppongi area also has several smaller art galleries. Some smaller but popular galleries in Roppongi are Ota Fine Arts, Taka Ishii Gallery, and Zen Foto Gallery. These galleries exhibit a wide range of art, often by emerging artists.

Roppongi Hills:

Apart from the Mori Art Museum, you can also explore the Roppongi Hills area, which has modern office buildings, apartments, shops, restaurants, a hotel, a TV studio, and a large outdoor amphitheater.

Map for The Places to Visit in Roppongi

Ryokan Stay Experience in Tokyo

Inside of a Japanese Ryokan room.

The word Ryokan (旅館) is made by two Kanji characters 旅, meaning “journey) and 館, which means “hall”. As the name suggests, a ryokan is a Japanese inn or a place one can stay during one’s journey.

The term Ryokan originated during the Edo period (1603–1868) when such inns served travelers as a place to stay along Japan’s highways. A ryokan features rooms with tatami-matted flooring. The rooms are like suits and many times as big as a small-sized apartment in Tokyo. The food is served in the room, and unlike in modern hotels, in a ryokan, you sleep on a futon on the floor in traditional Japanese style.

These Ryokans also have onsen, where you can enjoy hot spring baths. Staying in a ryokan offers a great opportunity to experience traditional Japanese hospitality.

Most authentic Ryokan experiences are often found in more rural parts of Japan. However, there are several ryokans in Tokyo and the surrounding regions where you can have the traditional experience.

The following are some of the popular ryokans in Tokyo:

Hoshinoya Tokyo:

Hoshinoya Tokyo is a luxury Ryokan located in Tokyo’s Otemachi area. It offers a traditional Ryokan experience with a modern touch. The traditional ryokans are generally a single story building; however, the Hoshinoya Ryokan has 19 floors including 2 basement floors. Each floor is like a mini ryokan with 6 rooms each. They also have a lounge area where guests can sit and have tea and snacks.

Homeikan:

Homeikan Rokan, near the University of Tokyo in Bunkyo Ward, is budget-friendly ryokan with a long history going back to the Meiji Era.

Sawanoya Ryokan:

Sawanoya Ryokan is a family-run ryokan in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. It is famous for its warm hospitality. Like Homeikan, Sawanoya Ryokan is quite affordable, with simple, traditional rooms and onsen facilities.

Ryokan Katsutaro:

Like Sawanoya Ryokan, Ryokan Katsutaro is also in the Yanaka district of Tokyo. It’s situated in an area with a traditional atmosphere, with many of temples and shrines nearby.

If you’re willing to go a bit outside of Tokyo, you can find ryokans in areas famous for their hot springs. Some of the popular options are as follows:

Hakone:

Hakone is a popular hot spring resort area 81 km from Tokyo. By train, you can reach Hakone from Tokyo in 50 to 90 minutes, depending on the type of train.

Hakone has several Ryokans, from luxury options like Hakone Ginyu and Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa to more budget-friendly ones like Hakone Tent.

Kawaguchiko:

The Kawaguchiko area near Mount Fuji is also famous for ryokans with views of Mount Fuji. Some of the options here include Konansou and Kozantei Ubuya.

Ryokan stay is a package and includes a traditional multi-course dinner (kaiseki) and breakfast. The food is served in your room.

Bunkyo Ward: Modernity with Traditional Touch

Koishikawa Korakuen Garden in Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo city.

Bunkyo Ward is one of the 23 wards of Tokyo where you can experience modern city life with several traditional attractions. This ward is also famous as Tokyo’s “educational center” because of various universities, including the University of Tokyo. Moreover, the Bunkyo ward also has several other educational and cultural institutions.

Following are some activities and attractions that you can explore in the Bunkyo Ward:

Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens:

Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens is one of Tokyo’s oldest and most beautiful Japanese gardens. This garden was designed in the early Edo period. Japanese-style gardens are famous for landscaping, and Koishikawa Korakuen Garden is no exception. The Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens has a central pond and picturesque artificial hills, stone lanterns, and several maple and cherry trees around it.

The University of Tokyo:

The University of Tokyo (東京大学 / Tokyo Daigaku) is rated as the #1 university in Japan. People also call it Todai, the short form of Tokyo Daigaku, meaning Tokyo University. The Hongo campus in the Bunkyo ward of Tokyo has been there since the university’s foundation in 1877 and has many historical buildings with beautiful natural surroundings, including many cherry blossom trees.

Tokyo Dome City:

Tokyo Dome City is a leisure complex with various attractions. These attractions include the Tokyo Dome baseball stadium, an amusement park, and the LaQua spa. Moreover, the Tokyo Dome City also has various shops and restaurants, and the Tokyo Dome Hotel. The amusement park in this complex has several exciting rides, including a giant Ferris wheel and a roller coaster.

Bunkyo Civic Center:

Bunkyo Civic Center has an observatory at the top of the building on the 25th floor. You can enjoy a panoramic view of Tokyo for free. If you happen to be there on a clear day, you can also see Mount Fuji from this observatory.

Nezu Shrine:

Nezu Shrine is a Shinto shrine famous for its azalea festival in April and May. This shrine is one of the oldest in Japan. Nezu Shrine’s popular vermilion torii gates create a tunnel similar to Kyoto’s famous Fushimi Inari Shrine.

Koishikawa Botanical Garden:

Koishikawa Botanical Garden is managed by the University of Tokyo. This garden has 4,000 different plant species. Like most gardens, the best seasons to appreciate the beauty of Koishikawa Botanical Garden are autumn and spring.

Experience Bunkyo’s Festivals:

Bunkyo is known for its traditional festivals, like the Bunkyo Azalea Festival in late April and the Bunkyo Tsutsuji Matsuri (Azalea Festival) in early May. Participating in these events can provide a unique cultural experience.

Exploring Bunkyo Ward uniquely blends Tokyo’s academic atmosphere, traditional culture, and contemporary entertainment if you wish to experience Tokyo’s quieter, more traditional side with a touch of modernity.

Map of Places of Interest in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo

Odaiba

Odaiba with a view of the rainbow bridge.

The Odaiba area near Tokyo Bay is a beautiful area, and though it is very modern, it contrasts with downtown Tokyo because of its wide roads and relaxed atmosphere.

Odaiba was built in the 1850s on reclaimed land. However, this area witnessed a huge expansion as a seaport district during the late 20th century. Since then, this area has developed as a major commercial, residential, and leisure area.

Following is a list of activities and attractions you can enjoy in Odaiba:

Palette Town:

Odaiba’s Palette Town is a large shopping and entertainment complex with a large shopping mall called “VenusFort.” This shopping mall was constructed to look like an 18th-century South European town. The Palette Town also has one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world, called Daikanransha.

Odaiba Seaside Park:

Odaiba Seaside Park offers beautiful views of the Rainbow Bridge and the Tokyo skyline. You can relax on the artificial beach, walk along the promenade, or try out the water sports available.

Aqua City:

Aqua City is a shopping mall featuring various stores, boutiques, restaurants, and a 13-screen cinema complex. It also has an excellent ramen food court where you can try different regional styles of ramen.

Decks Tokyo Beach:

Decks Tokyo Beach is a shopping mall with themed areas, such as Little Hong Kong & Tokyo Trick Art Museum, with fun optical illusions. It also houses LEGOLAND Discovery Center Tokyo and Madame Tussauds Tokyo.

Fuji TV Building:

You can tour the building of one of Japan’s private, nationwide TV stations. You can see exhibits on popular programs, buy related goods, and access the futuristic-looking building’s observatory deck.

Oedo Onsen Monogatari:

Oedo Onsen Monogatari is a hot spring theme park that reproduces the atmosphere of the Edo Period. You can enjoy various types of baths, including those using natural hot spring water pumped from the depths of Odaiba.

Megaweb Toyota City and History Garage:

Toyota Mega Web is often called a theme park for car enthusiasts. Located in Odaiba’s Palette Town, it provides visitors an interactive experience related to everything Toyota. The Mega Web is divided into three main areas:

Toyota City Showcase:

Toyota City Showcase is where you can see, touch, and ride the latest models from Toyota. It also offers test drives on a dedicated course (though remember this requires a valid driving license recognized in Japan).

Toyota Universal Design Showcase:

This section exhibits Toyota’s approach to universal design and future technologies. You can check out Toyota’s next-generation mobility solutions, including environment-friendly cars and advanced IT-integrated systems.

History Garage:

The History Garage showcases beautifully restored vehicles from the 1960s and beyond from Toyota and other manufacturers.

It’s not just Japanese cars either; you’ll see a collection of iconic vehicles from Europe and the United States too. This retro-themed garage is designed to resemble the streets of Tokyo from the Showa era (1926-1989), providing a nostalgic atmosphere.

There’s also a library with materials covering the history of automobiles, making this a great stop for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

If you are an automobile lover, visiting the Toyota Mega Web and the History Garage is a great experience, not just to learn about the history of automobiles but also to learn about the latest innovations and the future of mobility.

DiverCity Tokyo Plaza:

DiverCity Tokyo Plaza shopping complex has various brand stores and restaurants. Moreover, it also has a large store named Gundam Base Tokyo, a Gundam anime franchise. This store has a large collection of action figures and goods related to Gunpla. Apart from the merchandise, this store also features exhibitions of Gundam models, including a life-sized Gundam statue.

Yurikamome Train Line:

Lastly, don’t miss a ride on the fully automated Yurikamome Line, which connects Odaiba to the mainland. If you manage to get the right seat, you will love the lovely views of the city and Tokyo Bay.

Odaiba provides a fun-filled day for all age groups with its shopping and entertainment options and is a nice contrast to the traditional sights of Tokyo.

Map of Places of Interest in Odaiba

TeamLab Borderless Digital Museum

Inside TeamLab Borderless digital museum in Tokyo.

TeamLab Borderless, a digital art museum was earlier located in Odaiba, Tokyo. From February 9th, 2024 its new location is Azabudai Hills in Central Tokyo.

Opened in 2018, TeamLab Borderless Museum is a collaboration between the real estate and property management company “Mori Building” and teamLab, a renowned Japanese art collective and a group of artists. The “borderless” in the name suggests an interactive and immersive presentation of high-dimensional art without borders between the art and the viewers.

The following are the main attractions of the TeamLab Borderless:

Interactive Artworks:

The museum features around 60 interactive artworks that are constantly in motion. These artworks respond to the viewer’s presence. The artworks aren’t confined to specific rooms but move and interact with each other, influencing and sometimes intermingling with other works.

Forest of Resonating Lamps:

Forest of Resonating Lamps is one of the most popular installations in the museum. It’s a room with a large number of hanging lamps that change colors and respond to human presence and interaction. The lamps light up when they detect a person and then send a color to the nearest lamps, creating a continuous chain of light that spreads like a wave.

Forest of Flowers and People:

Forest of Flowers and People in TeamLab Borderless is a huge space with blooming flowers. The installation constantly changes with the seasons and also reacts to the visitors’ movements.

Athletics Forest:

Athletics Forest is an interactive space designed to train spatial awareness, which is understanding learning not just by the brain but by using the body to understand spatial relations between objects.

The Athletics Forest at TeamLab Borderless includes a trampoline universe, a three-dimensional bouldering climbing space, and a light forest of resonating orbs.

Crystal World:

The room known as the Crystal World in TeamLab Borderless is full of interactive dangling LED lights. Visitors can control these lights using a smartphone app to change the colors, feeling as if they are inside a giant crystal.

Please note that the teamLab Borderless is quite popular, and tickets are often sold out, especially on weekends and holidays. Therefore, buying them online in advance is highly recommended.

The beauty of this museum is that it is meant to be experienced at your own pace, with no set route, so you can explore the different spaces and installations as you move around.

Having at least 2 to 3 hours for your visit to TeamLab Borderless is recommended. The museum also recommends the same. Overall, teamLab Borderless offers a unique experience that combines art and learning and is worth visiting while you’re in Tokyo.

Ghibli Museum

An outside view of Ghibli Museum in Tokyo.

If you are interested in Anime, you would love the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka on the western side of Tokyo. This museum features the anime works of Studio Ghibli, co-founded by Hayao Miyazaki, one of Japan’s most famous anime directors.

The daily entries in the Ghibli Museum are limited to enable visitors to experience all attractions without much waiting time. Moreover, all admissions to the museum are only with reservations. Therefore, it’s recommended to check the official Ghibli Museum website for the most up-to-date information and book the tickets in advance.

Please note that the tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on the 10th of each month for the next month.

Access to the Ghibli Museum

The Ghibli Museum is 15 to 20 minutes walk from the following Stations:

From the JR Mitaka Station, you can even take a community bus to the museum, which has a frequency of 10 to 20 minutes. There is a ticket vending machine near bus top #9 to purchase bus tickets.

Attractions at Ghibli Museum

Following are some of the features and attractions of the museum:

Architecture and Design:

The Ghibli Museum is designed in a style similar to the settings in many Ghibli films. Every inch of the museum, from the building to the garden, is full of Ghibli charm. Several architectural effects of Ghibli Studio’s various movies are present throughout the museum. You will certainly appreciate and enjoy these if you have seen those movies.

Exhibits:

Inside the Ghibli Museum, you’ll find a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits. The permanent exhibits showcase the creative process of animation, including a replication of the studio where the films are made. The temporary exhibits change regularly and highlight different aspects of Ghibli’s works.

The Saturn Theater:

Ghibli Museum includes a small theater known as the “Saturn Theater.” You can watch short films by Studio Ghibli that are exclusive to the museum. This theater shows a different film every month.

The Catbus Room:

One of the favorite rooms in the museum is the “Catbus Room,” where children can play on a life-sized Catbus from “My Neighbor Totoro.”

The Rooftop Garden:

In the rooftop Garden, you’ll find a life-sized robot soldier from the movie “Castle in the Sky.” This is also a great spot for taking pictures.

Straw Hat Cafe:

The museum’s “Straw Hat Cafe” serves meals and desserts inspired by the food seen in Ghibli films.

Museum Shop:

The museum shop, “Mamma Aiuto,” sells a wide range of Ghibli merchandise, including many items that are exclusive to the museum and not available elsewhere.

Kappabashi Kitchen Town

Kitchen ware shop in Kappabashi Kitchen Town (Kappabashi Dougu Street) in Tokyo.

Tokyo’s Kappabashi Kitchen Town, or Kappabashi Dougu Street, is a shopping street known for its extensive selection of kitchen-related retail stores. It’s a fascinating area to explore, even if you’re not planning to shop for kitchenware, because of its unique selection, which tells a lot about Japan’s traditional culinary culture.

Apart from the kitchenware shops and outlets exclusive to the world-famous Japanese kitchen knife shops, such as Kamata and Kama-Asa, who will even engrave the knives for you, the following are other things you can find and do in Kappabashi Kitchen Town:

Plastic Food Models:

I am sure that you must have admired the natural-looking plastic food models displayed outside Japanese restaurants. In Kappabashi, several shops specialize in these plastic food models, from sushi to ramen to desserts. It’s fun to browse and maybe buy these models as souvenirs.

Bento Supplies:

Bento is takeaway or homemade lunches packed in traditional-looking wood or plastic boxes. In Kappabashi Kitchen Town, you’ll find a variety of bento boxes, dividers, rice molds, and cute cutters for shaping vegetables.

Tableware and Ceramics:

Kappabashi also offers an extensive range of Japanese pottery and ceramics tableware. You can purchase or just admire elegant tea sets and beautifully crafted plates and bowls, from the traditional to the modern styles.

Coffee and Tea Shops:

You can also find shops in Kappabashi that sell a variety of coffee and tea brewing equipment, as well as high-quality coffee beans and tea leaves.

Bakery Equipment:

If you love baking, you’ll find shops selling bakery equipment, decorative items, and cake-making tools.

Access to Kappabashi Kitchen Town

Kappabashi Kitchen Town is between Ueno and Asakusa stations. You can take a short walk to reach this amazing place from either of these two stations.

Discover Shimokitazawa

Shimokitazawa district entrance.

Shimokitazawa, often known simply as “Shimokita,” is a neighborhood in Tokyo famous for its trendy atmosphere and many small retail shops. In Shimokitazawa, You will also find a variety of cafes, theaters, bars, and music venues.

Shimokitazawa is a popular area among students and young professionals and is often compared to New York’s East Village or Brooklyn because of its hip, alternative scene.

Access to Shimokitazawa

Shimokitazawa Station is accessible by the following two train lines:

Things to Do in Shimokitazawa

Here are some things to do and discover in the Shimokitazawa area of Tokyo:

Thrift Shopping:

Shimokitazawa is considered Tokyo’s thrift store capital. You will find a lot of shops in Shimokita that sell vintage and secondhand clothing, unique accessories, and retro furniture. Shops like New York Joe Exchange, Flamingo, and Haight & Ashbury are worth checking out.

Live Music and Theatre:

Shimokitazawa is also famous for its lively music scene. Numerous small live houses and theaters in this area host performances ranging from local independent bands to traditional theatre. You can find some of such theatres here.

Cafes and Restaurants:

With its popularity among the younger generation, Shimokita has many unique and cozy cafes and eateries. You can find various dining options, from organic, vegetarian, and vegan food to traditional Japanese and international cuisine.

Festivals:

If you’re there at the right time, you might catch one of the local festivals like the Shimokitazawa Tengu Festival, a traditional event with a parade, or the Shimokitazawa Sound Cruising, a music festival.

Shimokitazawa offers a unique, off-beat experience that contrasts with the ultra-modern image of districts like Shibuya or Shinjuku. It’s a great place to explore for those looking to experience a more laid-back side of Tokyo.

Explore Tokyo from the Water

Dinner cruise boat (yakatabune) sailing along Sumida River at night.

Exploring Tokyo by road or train is good for seeing specific tourist attractions. However, traveling on a boat across the city can make you appreciate the city in its entirety. Exploring Tokyo from the water is a unique experience as It’s like watching the city by being in it but feeling as if you are seeing it from a distance.

One of the main waterways you can navigate is the Sumida River, which flows through Tokyo and offers views of many iconic landmarks.

Here are some ways you can explore Tokyo from the water:

Sumida River Cruise:

Several companies offer river cruises along the Sumida River. The boats depart from several locations, but one of the most common routes is from Asakusa to Odaiba.

During the cruise, you’ll see numerous Tokyo landmarks, including the Tokyo Skytree, the Asahi Beer Hall, and the Rainbow Bridge.

Many of the cruises offer commentary (usually in Japanese, but some have English audio guides available) explaining the sights along the route.

Hotaluna, Himiko, and Emeraldas Water Buses:

Hotaluna, Himiko, and Emeraldas cruises have futuristic-looking boats that look like some objects from a science-fiction movie. Anime creator Leiji Matsumoto designed these boats.

The cruising routes are the same as the regular river cruises of Tokyo; the scenery outside remains the same; what changes is the experience of being in a very futuristic-looking boat, which just doesn’t represent technology but artistic objects by a famous artist.

If you are looking for a more stylish way to cruise the river. Hotaluna, Himiko, and Emeraldas cruises offer that style with larger windows and more comfortable seating. You can find the access points and timetables here.

Traditional Yakatabune Cruises:

We just talked about futuristic-looking boats, but are you in Japan just to experience space, rockets, and robots? Or will you find it worthwhile to take a peek into traditional Japan and its culture?

Well, if I have to decide, I would love to have both tastes – obviously the first preference for the latter. So, here comes into the picture Yakatabune (屋形船). Yakatabune is a traditional Japanese houseboat; however, we notice the combination of Kanji characters, it is 屋 (shop) + 形 (shape) + 船 (boat), which literally means a “shop-shaped boat”.

Therefore, the meaning of Yakatabune is not literal but conceptual because a Yakatabune is not just a means for people to travel across waters, but these are like restaurants sailing through water.

Several companies offer cruises on Yakatabune, and a cruise in these can be a fun way to combine sightseeing with experiencing traditional Japanese culture.

Cherry Blossom Viewing Cruises:

In spring, some companies offer special cherry blossom cruises. The Sumida River is lined with cherry trees, and a river cruise can be a wonderful way to take in the sights of the Sakura season.

Canal Café Boat Rental:

Near Iidabashi Station, the Canal Café offers the opportunity to rent small rowboats and paddle along the outer moat of the former Edo Castle. It’s a quieter, more intimate experience than larger river cruises. During summer, you can rent rowboats for 600 yen per 30 minutes.

When planning your water-based exploration, please remember that most river and boat services operate on a schedule and might be affected by weather conditions. It’s a good idea to check the days and hours of operation in advance.

Shopping at Nakano Broadway

A view of Nakano Broadway in Tokyo, Japan

Nakano Broadway is a shopping complex in Tokyo’s Nakano ward. Like Akihabara, Nakano is also famous among Otaku lovers. In fact, it is known as a mecca for otaku culture.

Train Access to Nakano Broadway

Nakano Broadway is a short walk from Nakano Station, accessible by JR and Tokyo Meto as follows:

Things to Do in Nakano Broadway

Following are some of the things that you can do and find on Nakano Broadway:

Mandarake Stores:

Right after entering Nakano Broadway, you can find the Mandarake stores on your right-hand side. Mandarake stores is one of the largest stores in the world for Anime and Manga related products.

Mandarake is a nationwide chain of 14 stores in Japan (2024 information), and the Nakano Broadway store was their first store and is the biggest one in Japan. In fact, on Nakano Broadway, they have over 30 stores, each for different kinds of items. There are no issues if you do not speak Japanese, as they have English-speaking staff to support foreigners.

Collector’s Shops:

Nakano Broadway is a paradise for people who have the hobby of collecting anime- and manga-related items. You will find a number of stores selling various collectibles, including action figures, vintage toys, video games, trading cards, idol goods, film cells from anime, and more.

Art and Antiques:

In addition to modern pop culture, you can also find stores selling Japanese antiques, traditional crafts, and even fine art in Nakano Broadway.

Fashion and Accessories:

Many independent boutiques also offer clothing, shoes, and accessories, including vintage and secondhand items.

Nakano Sunmall:

Leading to Nakano Broadway from Nakano Station is a 225-meter-long covered shopping street called Nakano Sunmall. It’s filled with around 100 shops and restaurants, making it a lively place to explore before or after visiting Nakano Broadway.

Nakano Broadway also frequently hosts anime and manga-related events, where you can see exhibitions related to specific series, buy limited-edition goods, or even meet manga artists.

Nakano Broadway can be a fun place to explore Japanese pop culture even if you are not an anime fan.

Hama-Rikyu Gardens

A view of Hama-Rikyu Gardens in the evening.

Hama-Rikyu Gardens (浜離宮恩賜庭園) is a large and picturesque landscape public park alongside the Tokyo Bay.

This historical site was originally built in the 17th century by the royalties as their extended home in Tokyo. This site was later used as a state guest house for foreign diplomats. It’s a large and picturesque landscape garden that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding skyscrapers of the bustling city.

Hama-Rikyu Gardens is designated as a Special National Place of Scenic Beauty by the Japanese Cultural Affairs Agency.

Train Access to Hama-Rikyu Gardens

The Hama-Rikyu Gardens is 7 to 10 minutes walk from the following stations:

Features of Hama-Rikyu Gardens

The following is what you can expect when you visit Hama-Rikyu Gardens:

Landscaping:

Hama-Rikyu Gardens features a saltwater moat filled from Tokyo Bay, two duck hunting sites, a 300-year-old pine tree, several plum and cherry blossom trees, and a beautiful field of rapeseed flowers.

You can witness different sceneries in different seasons, with the cherry blossoms in spring, the cosmos in autumn, and migratory birds in winter, giving this garden a different feel throughout the year.

Tea House:

Nakajima-no-Ochaya teahouse is on an artificial island in the middle of the park’s large pond. This wooden teahouse is reachable from the land by a wooden bridge. Here, you can relax with traditional Japanese tea while enjoying the view of the park.

Boat Ride to Asakusa:

There is a pier in the garden from which you can take a boat ride along the Sumida River to Asakusa.

The natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere of Hama-rikyu Gardens make it a great place to take a break from the fast-paced life of Tokyo without going out of the city. You can just stroll along the walking paths, relax with a team in the teahouse, or simply take in the scenery, and you will love this place.

Explore Ueno Park and its Museums

Hanami parties in Uenogarden during Sakura *Cherry blossom) season.

Ueno Park is one of Japan’s first public parks in the Ueno area of Tokyo’s Taitō ward. The park was opened in 1873 on lands formerly belonging to the temple of Kan’ei-ji.

Ueno Park is famous for its museums, historical monuments, and zoo. Ueno garden is also a very popular destination among Japanese for Hamami parties during the Sakura (cherry blossom) season.

Accessing Ueno Park

Ueno Park is a short walk from Ueno Station and Keiseiueno Station as follows:

  • A 2-minute walk from Ueno station of JR by Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Hibiya Line
  • 1-minute walk from Keisei Ueno station of Keisei Line

Things to Do in Ueno Park

There are a lot of things you can do and see in Ueno Park. The following are some of the main attractions:

Museums in Ueno:

Ueno Park is sometimes called the “museum district” because it houses several of Tokyo’s most important museums. These museums include the following:

Ueno Zoo:

Ueno Zoo is Japan’s oldest zoo. This zoo is one of the most popular places in Tokyo. With a long history since its establishment in 1882, it’s natural that Ueno Zoo has over 3,000 inhabitants from over 500 species, including giant pandas from China, elephants from India and Thailand, tigers, gorillas, polar bears, and various birds.

Moreover, visiting the Ueno Zoo is not just about watching and learning about animals; the huge area of the zoo has several small eating joints, and eating and relaxing while you explore the zoo is a picnic-like experience.

Shinobazu Pond:

The Shinobazu Pond is a large pond in the southern part of Ueno Park. This pond has three sections: a lotus pond, a boating pond, and a marshy pond. The lotus pond section remains covered with beautiful lotus flowers during the summers. If you are interested in bird watching, this pond is a good place for that as you can find a lot of birds around it.

Temples and Shrines in Ueno:

The Ueno Park also has several temples and shrines. These shrines and temples include the Toshogu Shrine (dedicated to the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate), Kiyomizu Kannon Temple, and the Bentendo Temple, built on an artificial island inside the Shinobazu Pond.

Performances:

One of the popular events during the summer is the Ueno Summer Festival. This festival is a five-week-long event with various performances and parades. Moreover, you can enjoy various other events and performances throughout the year, including outdoor concerts. You can also find independent individual performers who perform in their chosen fields.

Statues and Monuments:

Ueno Park also has several statues and monuments. Some of the famous ones are the Statue of Takamori Saigo, one of the most influential samurai in Japanese history, and the Flame of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, a monument to the victims of the atomic bombings.

Map of Ueno Park

Ueno Park map.
Map Image Courtesy: Bureau of Construction (Tokyo Metropolitan Govt.)

Visit Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) in Shinjuku

Japanese street food at omoide yokocho Shinjuku Tokyo.

Omoide Yokocho is a bar district in Shinjuku with a traditional atmosphere. Among its approximately 80 commercial establishments, there are around 60 bars and restaurants, including yakitori restaurants, and many restaurants with Motsu-yaki, or BBQ food from the internal organs of cows and pigs.

(Note: You may also like to read about the outdoor BBQ spots in Tokyo.)

Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) is also known as Piss Alley. It got its name as piss valley because, in the old days, there were no toilets in this area, and people had to relieve themselves outside. However, don’t worry; those days are long gone, and here, you can enjoy the atmosphere of Tokyo of the past post-war decades.

Many locals frequent the izakayas in Omoide Yokocho, making it a great place to interact with Tokyo residents and experience the local nightlife.

The area starts getting busy in the early evening, and it’s typically full by 7 or 8 pm, so consider going early if you want to avoid the crowds. Also, while many staff members might not speak English, they are generally friendly and welcoming to foreigners.

Access to Omoide Yokocho

A short walk from the following stations can access Omoide Yokocho:

Fish for Your Dinner at Zauo Shinjuku

Zauo restaurant Shinjuku inside viewShinjuku
Image courtesy: Orange Smile

Not everyone gets a chance to go fishing, but many of us hope to do that. If you are one of those and are also hungry, then Zauo Shinjuku is the place for you.

Zauo Shinjuku is a unique restaurant located in the Shinjuku Washington Hotel in the busy district of Shinjuku in Tokyo, where guests can fish for their own dinner. The name “Zauo” translates to “sit at the fishing place,” which holds true to the theme of this restaurant.

Train Access to Zauo Shinjuku

The Zauo Shinjuku in Shinjuku Washington Hotel is conveniently accessible from the following stations:

What Can You Expect at Zauo Shinjuku?

The Zauo restaurant has a large, boat-shaped seating area surrounded by a moat filled with different types of fish. The fishes include sea bream, flounder, horse mackerel, and lobster. However, the availability of the types of fish may vary depending on the season.

In Zauo Shinjuku, you can buy bait and rent a fishing rod to catch your dinner. You can take the help of the staff members if you are new to fishing. When a customer successfully catches a fish, the staff will celebrate by beating a drum and cheering, adding a fun and lively atmosphere to the dining experience.

After catching a fish, you can choose how you want it prepared. Choices typically include sushi, sashimi, grilled, or deep-fried. However, if you do not like to fish or can’t catch, you can order your food from the menu as you do in a normal restaurant. Their menu also includes meat and vegetarian dishes apart from seafood.

Pricing at Zauo Shinjuku depends on the type of fish you catch. Each fish is individually priced, and the cooking fee depends on your chosen preparation method.

Zauo Shinjuku offers a unique, interactive dining experience that’s fun for all ages. Even if you are not interested in fishing and eating your catch, you can enjoy fresh seafood in a lively atmosphere.

If you plan to visit Zauo Shinjuku, it’s highly recommended that you make a reservation beforehand.

Visit Tokyo’s Themed Cafes

Inside view of Ninja restaurant Akasaka, Tokyo.
Image courtesy: Ninja Restaurant, Tokyo

Tokyo is well-known for its wild and unique themed cafes. There’s a themed cafe for almost every interest, from cats to maids to robots. Here are some particularly famous or unique ones you might want to include:

Owl Cafes:

At an owl cafe, you can enjoy a drink in the company of real owls. There are mainly two popular owl cafes in Tokyo, and these are “Owl Cafe & Bar Owl Village” in Harajuku and Owl Cafe in Akihabara.

Vampire Cafe:

Vampire Cafe is a Gothic-themed cafe in Ginza that offers a dining experience straight out of a vampire movie, complete with blood-red decor, candlelight, and waiters dressed as vampires.

Ninja Tokyo (Formerly Nija Akasaka):

This ninja-themed restaurant named “Ninja Akasaka” was originally in Akasaka. It moved to Tokyo in December 2023 with a new name, “Ninja Tokyo.” This restaurant gives a unique dining experience in a ninja village. It is worth experiencing the maze-like hallways, ninja-style performances, and food served by staff dressed as ninjas.

Penguin Bar Ikebukuro:

You can experience your drink in Penguin Bar while watching real penguins frolicking in a specially designed enclosure. However, I would agree with Jasper Wilkin’s comments here.

Visit a Cat Café

Cat Cafe Mocha in Shibuya, Tokyo.

Cat cafes originated in Taiwan in the late 1990s but have since become extremely popular in Japan, beginning in the mid-2000s. These cafes allow customers to interact with cats while enjoying coffee or tea. This concept has been particularly embraced in cities like Tokyo, where strict no-pet apartment policies are common.

Reputable cat cafes take the welfare of the cats seriously. The cats are usually well-cared for, and there are typically rules in place to protect them, such as restrictions on picking up the cats, limits on the number of customers at any one time, and “quiet hours” for the cats to rest.

Most cat cafes charge hourly, though some have a cover charge instead. This fee typically includes unlimited non-alcoholic beverages.

As for specific cat cafes in Tokyo, there are several well-known ones:

Calico Cat Café:

One of Tokyo’s most popular cat cafes is Calico Cat Café in Shinjuku, which has many breeds of cats to interact with.

Cat Cafe MoCHA:

With several locations across Tokyo (including Shibuya and Harajuku), Cat Cafe MoCHA is known for its comfortable, clean, stylish interior and friendly cats.

Neko Maru Café:

Neko Maru Café in Ueno is praised for its calm atmosphere and the well-being of its cats. The holding company also runs a cat hotel, indicating the availability of staff experienced in caring for cats.

Temari no Ouchi:

Located in Musashino, Temari no Ouchi Cat Café stands out because of its unique fairytale-like interior. It’s a bit more expensive than most other cat cafes, but it’s also one of the most Instagram-worthy.

Visiting these themed cafes offers more than just food and drinks – they offer unique experiences that can make your trip to Tokyo even more memorable.

Moreover, apart from cats and owls, Tokyo has cafes featuring a variety of animals like hedgehogs (Hedgehog Cafe Harry), rabbits, and reptiles (Tokyo Snake Center).

Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum

Outside view of Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.
Image courtesy: Kentaro Ohno, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=45560428

The Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, located in Koganei Park just outside central Tokyo, is a fascinating destination for visitors interested in the historical architecture of Tokyo.

Access to Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum

Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum is easily accessible by trains and buses. Please check the museum’s official site to access it here.

More Details about the Museum

Historical Buildings:

Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum has over 30 buildings from the Edo period (1603-1868) through to the early Shōwa period (1926-1989). These buildings were all originally located in different parts of Tokyo and were restored/reconstructed in this museum. The collection includes a variety of structures, such as homes, shops, a bathhouse, and a sake brewery.

Apart from the permanent exhibits, the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum also holds many temporary exhibitions annually. You can check the themes and dates of these exhibitions on their official website.

Authenticity:

All buildings are carefully preserved and restored to their original state. You can go inside most buildings, which are furnished with period-appropriate items, giving you a true sense of what life was like during these eras.

Famous Exhibits:

One of the most famous buildings is the house of Hachirouemon Mitsui, a wealthy businessman during the Taisho era. Its impressive size and intricate design showcase the luxurious lifestyle of the upper class during that period.

Similarly, another popular structure is The house of Korekiyo Takahashi, a notable politician during the Meiji and Showa eras.

Workshops and Demonstrations:

Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum occasionally hosts traditional craft workshops and other cultural events.

Visit Planning:

Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum is closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a holiday), so plan your visit accordingly. The buildings are spread out over a large area, so be prepared for a lot of walking.

Takeshita Street in Harajuku

Takeshita fashion street in Harajuku, Tokyo.

Takeshita Fashion Street in the Harajuku district of Tokyo is a pedestrian shopping street lined with fashion boutiques, cafes, and restaurants in Harajuku. Please note that the shops mainly cater to young people who go for unconventional or quirky fashion or follow Japanese pop cultures like Otaku and Kawai.

Even if you do not fit into any of the above-mentioned categories, Harajuku, especially the Takeshita Fashion Street, is worth visiting for its vibrant and lively atmosphere. It is certainly a unique experience that only this place can offer.

Access to Takeshita Street

Takeshita Street in Harajuku is accessible by a short walk from the following two stations:

Here are some notable things about Takeshita Street:

Fashion Shops:

Takeshita Street is famous for its diverse and quirky clothing stores. They range from vintage shops to trendy boutiques specializing in various styles such as gothic lolita, visual kei, and cosplay costumes.

Moreover, shops like Daiso, Japan’s famous 100-yen store, and WEGO, a popular local clothing brand, have their flagship stores here.

Cafes and Sweet Treats:

The street is also famous for its stores and restaurants with unique and creative food. You’ll find a wide range of Japanese sweets like the colorful “Harajuku crepes,” huge fairy floss from Totti Candy Factory, and the unique Zaku Zaku and Calbee Plus desserts. Moreover, there are also many themed cafes, like the Kawaii Monster Cafe and animal cafes.

Purikura Photo Booths:

The word Purikura combines “Print” and “Club”. Puri comes from the Japanese pronunciation of the word print (“purinto” in Japanese), and kura comes from the Japanese pronunciation of club, which is “kurabu”.

A Purikura is a Japanese photo booth (equally famous in S. Korea also) where you can take digital pictures and decorate them with a wide range of cute and funny effects. These booths are popular among Japanese teenagers and can be a fun activity to try while on Takeshita Street.

Ura-Harajuku:

If you wish to have a more sophisticated and less crowded shopping experience, you should try the backstreets of Ura-Harajuku. Here, you’ll find more upscale boutiques, design studios, and upscale cafes.

Tokyo has different colors, and it’s always good to see and experience it all in this city. That is the only way to know Tokyo in its entirety.

Walking down Takeshita Street is one such experience that you should not miss. The energy, quirky fashion, and pop culture make it one of the city’s most exciting and distinctive places.

Tsukishima Monja Street to Enjoy Monjayaki

Tsukishima Monja Street during evening hours.
Image courtesy: Nakashi, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=86824271

Tsukishima Monja Street, often called “Monja Street,” is in Tsukishima, an artificial island in Tokyo’s Chuo ward. Tourists often overlook the island, but it is a favorite among locals. The main attraction here is Monja Street – a charming lane packed with more than 70 small eateries specializing in monjayaki.

Access to Tsukishima Monja Street

The Tsukishima Monja Street is a 1-minute walk from the Tsukishima station. You can reach Tsukishima Stations by the following two train lines:

  • Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line
  • Metropolitan Subway Oedo Line

Things to Experience in Tokyo’s Tsukishima Monja Street

Some of the main details to plan your visit and activities at Tsukishima Monja Street are as follows:

Monjayaki:

Monjayaki, often affectionately called “Monja,” is a traditional Tokyo dish similar to Okonomiyaki. It’s a runny pancake with various ingredients like meat, seafood, vegetables, and a special savory sauce. It might not be the most photogenic dish, but it’s delicious and is considered a must-try food experience in Tokyo.

The Tsukishima Monja Street has nearly 80 restaurants where you can enjoy Monjayaki.

Cooking Experience:

When you order Monjayaki, it’s cooked at your table on a hot iron grill. Part of the fun is being able to participate in the cooking process. Restaurant staff will often demonstrate how to cook the first one, and then you can cook subsequent ones yourself.

Variety of Eateries:

Monja Street offers a variety of places to try this dish. Each restaurant has its own recipe and unique ingredients. So, if you are hungry enough, it’s worth trying a few different places. Some of the well-known spots include “Monja Kura,” “Monja Mugi,” and “Tsukishima Monjyaki Shinchan.”

Tsukudani Shops:

Tsukishima is also known for Tsukudani, a type of preserved food that’s been simmered in soy sauce and mirin. You will find many small Tsukudani shops in the area, which have been there for generations.

Nishinaka Street:

Nishinaka Street is a smaller alley off Monja Street filled with tiny, old-fashioned bars and eateries. It’s a popular place to go for drinks.

Tsukishima Community Center:

If you’re interested in the area’s history, visit the Tsukishima Community Center. The center has a small museum with exhibits about the history and culture of Tsukishima.

Tsukishima and Monja Street, in particular, offer a unique look at Tokyo’s food culture. It’s a charming area that can make you feel like you are looking back in time and provides a wonderful break. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in trying authentic local cuisine.

Explore the Craft Beer Scene

People enjoying craft beer party in Tokyo.

Lately, Tokyo has seen a rapidly growing craft beer scene, with microbreweries and craft beer pubs all over the city. Whether you’re a casual beer lover or love craft beers, Tokyo has many places to experience. Here are some key places and events you might want to include on your bucket list:

Mikkeller Tokyo:

Mikkeller Tokyo, a Danish craft beer bar in Shibuya, is a great place to start. It offers an extensive selection of beers on tap, including several Mikkeller’s own brews, along with a range of guest beers from around the world.

Hitachino Brewing Lab:

Located near Akihabara Station, the “Hitachino Brewing Lab” brewery by the famous Kiuchi Brewery (creators of Hitachino Nest Beer) is a must-visit. Here, you can enjoy a wide variety of craft beers and even some exclusive brews only available at this location.

Craft Beer Market:

With several locations around Tokyo, including Jimbocho and Toranomon, the Craft Beer Market offers a rotating selection of Japanese and international craft beers at very reasonable prices. The lively atmosphere and food menu make it a popular spot.

Spring Valley Brewery:

In Daikanyama, Spring Valley Brewery is a subsidiary of Kirin, one of Japan’s major beer manufacturers. They offer a variety of craft-style beers brewed on-site, and the spacious, modern brewery also has a restaurant serving food that pairs well with their beers.

Antenna America:

Antenna America in Yokohama, near Tokyo, specializes in American craft beers. It’s a great spot if you’re interested in trying various imported beers.

Beer Festivals:

Tokyo hosts several craft beer festivals throughout the year. One of the popular beer festivals is the Great Japan Beer Festival. This festival takes place in the summer, and you can experience hundreds of craft beers from across Japan during this festival. Another popular event is the Tokyo Craft Beer Week, where many craft breweries from Japan participate.

Sushi-Making Classes in Tokyo

A foreigner learning to make sushi.

Without any doubt, Sushi is the signature dish of Japan. Who can think about Japan without sushi? Taking a sushi-making class is a great way to experience Japanese food culture.

Here are some recommended places in Tokyo where you can take a sushi-making class:

Tokyo Sushi Academy:

The Tokyo Sushi Academy is quite famous, and it offers a variety of sushi-making classes. You can choose a class from beginner to professional levels. The best thing is that the Tokyo Sushi Academy offers a 90-minute beginner’s class in English where you can learn to make your own sushi. The Academy is located in Shinjuku.

Chagohan Tokyo:

This cooking school in Asakusa offers a variety of cooking classes, including sushi classes. Their sushi course involves a trip to a local market to buy fresh ingredients, followed by a class where you’ll learn to make sushi and miso soup. Similar to the Tokyo Sushi Academy, Chagohan also offers cooking classes in English.

Mayuko’s Little Kitchen:

Run by a Japanese home chef, Mayuko’s Little Kitchen in Shibuya offers a homestyle cooking experience. Mayuko’s sushi class includes making sushi, miso soup, and matcha green tea.

YUCa’s Japanese Cooking:

Located in the residential neighborhood of Nakano, YUCa’s classes provide an intimate environment to learn not just about sushi but about home-style Japanese cooking. The classes are small, usually up to six people, so you’ll get a lot of personal attention.

AirKitchen:

AirKitchen is a platform where local Japanese residents offer cooking classes in their own homes. This can be a wonderful way to learn about sushi and other Japanese dishes in a more personal setting. Classes vary in size, price, and location, so you can choose one that best fits your schedule and budget.

When you take a sushi-making class, you’ll learn how to properly prepare and season the rice, select and prepare the fish, and roll and present your sushi. It’s a fun and educational experience you can bring back home. Plus, you get to eat your delicious creations at the end of the class!

Daikanyama: Experience Modern but Quiet Tokyo

People visit Daikanyama district, Tokyo.

Daikanyama is a stylish, slightly quieter neighborhood located a short walk from Shibuya. It’s well-known for its boutique shopping, upscale residences, trendy cafes, and modern architecture.

Access to Daikanyama

The following are the options to reach Daikanyama:

Things to Do in Daikanyama

The following are the main things that you should not miss while you are in Daikanyama:

Architecture:

If you appreciate architecture, you will love a walk around Daikanyama to see some great structures. One of the popular structures in Daikanyama is the Hillside Terrace Complex, designed by famed Japanese architect Fumihiko Maki.

Cafes and Restaurants:

Daikanyama has a fantastic selection of cafes and restaurants, from trendy coffee shops perfect for people-watching to top-notch restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Ivy Place is a particularly popular cafe, and the neighborhood also boasts several French-inspired bakeries and patisseries.

Daikanyama Log Road:

Daikanyama Log Road is a pedestrian-only retail strip that used to be a train line. It now has unique boutiques, eateries, and even a craft beer brewery.

Kyū Asakura House:

Kyū Asakura House is a preserved early 20th-century residence that’s open to the public. A visit to the Kyū Asakura House gives an opportunity to feel the elegant lifestyle of Tokyo’s upper class during the Taishō period (1912–1926).

Daikanyama is the perfect place for a relaxed, upscale Tokyo experience. Its unique blend of modern trends and laid-back charm makes it an excellent place for a leisurely day exploring the quieter side of Tokyo’s urban culture.

Can We Ignore the Most Famous Places and Activities?

This guide covered many places and activities that may be off Tokyo guidebooks and are relatively less known. However, a guide is never complete if we do not mention the famous places and activities which you may already know.

Tokyo Disneyland

Out of the 6 Disneylands in the world, one is Tokyo Disneyland. However, some facts about Tokyo Disneyland are not commonly known. These are as follows:

  • Tokyo Disneylands was established on April 15, 1983, as the first Disneyland outside the U.S.A.
  • Tokyo Disneyland is the only Disneyland in the world that is not owned by the Walt Disney Company but is 100% Japanese-owned, paying a licensing fee to the Walt Disney group.
  • Tokyo Disneyland is NOT in Tokyo City. Yes, it is in Chiba prefecture, adjacent to Tokyo. However, Chiba falls under the Tokyo Metropolitan Area,

Tokyo DisneySea

There are 12 Disney Parks in the world and 6 Disneyland resorts. However, there is only one DisneySea globally, and that is Tokyo DisneySea.

Designed to look like a rusty old European port town, Tokyo DisneySea is a must-go place to experience many attractions with water in their theme. However, there are many attractions which do not relate to water. Moreover, please note that adults enjoy DisneySea more than kids.

Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower, with a height of 332.9 meters or 1,092 feet, was the tallest structure in Japan for a long time. Yes, till Tokyo SkyTree came into existence. This tower was built in 1958 and took its design from the Eiffel Tower of Paris, only by beating the Eiffel Tower in height by 2.9 meters. Yes, the Eiffel Tower stands 330 meters tall.

Tokyo Tower is a communication Tower, but it attracts many local and foreign visitors to its observation decks at 150 meters and 249.6 meters to enjoy the view of Tokyo. You will love it.

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo SkyTree came into existence in 2010 and reached its current height of 634 meters or 2,080 ft in 2011 to claim the title of the tallest structure in the world.

However, now it ranks as the 3rd tallest structure globally and the tallest in Japan. The other two structures that are taller than the Tokyo Skytree are Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) with 678.9 m (2,227 ft) height, and the Burj Khalifa of Dubai with its amazing 829.8 m or 2,722 ft height.

Like Tokyo Tower, the Tokyo Skytree is a communication Tower with observation decks for visitors. The visitors can go much higher to 350 m and 450 m than Tokyo Tower’s observation decks at 150 and 249.6 meters.

Asakusa Temple (Senso-ji)

Without any doubt, Asakusa Temple, or Senso-ji, is one of the most popular destinations for foreigners and locals alike.

Though Senso-ji was designated as a temple in 1590, its history goes back to 628. You can read about its interesting history here.

Wouldn’t you think that the Asakusa Temple is a place to miss when you are in Tokyo? “No” will be how I would answer this question.

Meiji Jingu Shrine

Can you imagine a shrine with a land area of 70 hectares (170 acres, or 687966 square meters) right at the heart of Tokyo? Would you like to miss the largest shrine in Tokyo, known as Meiji Jingu?

Yes, Meiji Jingu is the largest Shinto Shrine in Tokyo and is a place to visit, explore, and add to your experiences. You can learn more about Meiji Jingu Shrine here.

Tokyo: Temples to Skyscrapers

I hope this guide will be your roadmap when looking for things to do in Tokyo. In the end, the beauty of Tokyo lies in its contrasts and continuous evolution. This bustling metropolis is a great combination of ultramodernity and traditional Japan. It is a city where neon-lit skyscrapers and anime shops coexist with ancient temples and beautiful gardens.

Remember, the journey is not about the destination or specific places but about everything to do along the way. And there are endless things to do and places to visit in Tokyo.

You may also like to check out Tokyo’s best outdoor barbecue spots.

Himanshu Jain

A long-term ex-pat in Japan, Himanshu comes with an IT background in SAP consulting, IT Business Development, and then running the country operations of an IT consulting multinational. Himanshu is the co-founder and Managing Director of ReachExt K.K. and EJable.com. He is also an Advisory Board Member of a Silicon Valley AI/IoT startup.

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