Japan is a curious paradox that holds both the world’s most modern technology with riveting skyscrapers and dazzling, primaeval tradition at heart. The best places to visit in Tokyo, one of the most popular and populous metropolis in the world, are warmly welcome a solo traveller, a family, and lovers by exquisite foods, shopping centres, theme parks, natural attractions, gardens, art galleries, and historical sites where you can learn a long rich history of Edo.
The wide variety of memorable experiences offered by this mega city seems to be hard for picking out one from a hundred. Below is the ultimate list of the 52 places to visit in Tokyo enabling you to unwind and have an unforgettable time in Japan!
Senso-ji Temple (aka Asakusa Temple), the oldest Buddhist temple in the city decorated colourfully in red and green, is the most iconic destination. According to the legend, two brothers fished a sculpture of the goddess of mercy, Kannon. When it was put back, it repeatedly showed up. Due to this, Senso-ji was constructed nearby for the deity.
The first gate to enter, called ‘Kaminarimon’ (Thunder) is the landmark of Tokyo and Asakusa where you should take a photo. After stepping in, you will be wowed by an ancient shopping street, ‘Nakamise’ where classic Japanese mementos and regional treats are sold. Plus, the temple hosts a number of celebrations all year long, especially in May and August.
Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Tokyo Skytree, one of the best places to visit in Tokyo, is the other landmark of the city which is the highest structure of Japan, not far from Asakusa. With a height of 634 metres, the tower presents panoramic views at two levels: 350 and 450 metres. The first one is Tembo, an observation deck where you can buy a souvenir and taste French-Japanese food, while the latter one, Tembo Galleria, offers a glass tube for a downward view of stunning streets below.
However, that is just the tip of the iceberg. There are a variety of activities to take part in such as a gigantic shopping centre, aquarium, gallery, and Skytree Post. Why not mail a postcard to your loved ones as a memory of your journey?
Address: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan
Nowhere does sakura quite like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, one of the best places to visit in Tokyo for ‘hanami’ (Cherry Blossom Viewing). In the Edo period, it was originally the Naitō family's home. The 3 main zones of gardens are a Traditional Japanese Landscape Garden, consisting of huge ponds and bridges, a French Garden, and an English Landscape Garden which is a must! More than 1,500 cherry blossoms from 15 species surround English Garden, an area that locals love to have a picnic. So, bring a picnic box and blanket here.
The other activities are enjoying in an art gallery and Japanese restaurant, taking photos while wearing kimonos and appreciating the beauty of tropical flowers in a delightful greenhouse. Don’t forget that you cannot pick all of the flowers.
Address: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0014, Japan
Imperial Palace, located on the original Edo-jō castle, was the world’s greatest citadel. It was the official residence of the Tokugawa shogun, who ruled Japan from 1603 to 1867. The boundary of the castle is distinguished by massive stone walls and moats that belonged to the ancient fortress. Don’t miss its famous ‘Nijubashi’, two splendid bridges functioning as a gateway to the innermost area.
What makes it much more fascinating is an enormous national garden (the Imperial East Gardens)including a museum of the imperial collections where you will see some of the best works of art like ceramics and Nihonga-style paintings. Notwithstanding its several beautiful spots, Tokyo imperial palace is off-limits for some areas.
Address: 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan
Meiji Jingu or Meiji Shrine, located in the centre of Tokyo, was built in the past century dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his other half, Empress Shoken. In his heyday, Japan's feudal age came to an end, and he was restored to power; Japan had modernised throughout the Meiji Period and became the world's leaders.
This place should be one of your very first best places to visit in Tokyo since you will be away from the hustle and bustle of the city. 100,000 trees enclose the buildings; therefore, it is wonderful for a 10-minute peaceful stroll. After that, you can join the Shinto activities like making offerings and buying charms, or visit the ‘Power Spot’ to see picturesque forest, Irish flowers, and a traditional tea house.
Address: 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan
You will definitely lose track of time at Inokashira Park because there are countless things to do and to see! The park established in the Edo period is amazing for hanami with more than 500 cherry blossoms that line the lake and bloom from late May to April. The highlights are riding swan boats, visiting a petting zoo, and discovering a small aquarium where art aficionados would lower their jaws since there are lively art performances such as pantomime, storytelling, and drawing. In addition, the Ghibli Museum in the southern area is worth a visit as well.
Address: 1 Chome-18-31 Gotenyama, Musashino, Tokyo 180-0005, Japan
Tokyo National Museum, opened its door in 1872, is on the list of best places to visit in Tokyo because it is not only the oldest and largest art museum in Japan but also the place to spice your trip up and get inspired by a hundred thousand Asian artwork and artefacts with an emphasis on Japanese art from the middle ages. Its 6 distinct buildings offer different styles of art; you can explore anything from costumes, ceramics, paintings, statues, sculptures, and armour like Katana (samurai’s sword). With two restaurants and cafes, you will never run out of delicious foods.
Address: 13-9 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8712, Japan
A world-famous amusement park, Tokyo Disneyland has 7 different lands with seasonal parades and decorations. Want to buy some cute souvenirs or try appetising treats? Head straight for ‘World Bazaar’ The most fun part is fantastic rides! From merry-go-round to thrilling roller coasters, there is something for all ages. Don’t forget to meet your favourite characters and take a picture at Toontown and Fantasyland. After a long day, you can rest and watch a parade. Or, check out Broadway-style shows.
Address: 1-1 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0031, Japan
Omoide Yokochō (Memory Lane), a renowned post-war commercial area in Shinjuku, is filled with nostalgia for the Showa era. Initially, it was a black market in the 1940s; however, World War II completely destroyed it. Today, the area locally called ‘Piss Alley’ is widely known for affordable drinks, and Japanese food like Yakitori (grilled skewers) and Motsuyakiya (broiled offal). Eating al fresco at small food stalls or bars is still loaded with the energy of the old market. Hence, this night hangout spot is one of the best places to visit in Tokyo and to make it ‘memorable’ with friends.
Address: 1 Chome-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
Feel the past of Tokyo in the 17th century at Nakamise Shopping Street, the oldest and most popular 250-metre shopping place, located at ‘Senso-ji Temple’. The majority of the shops have been run by the same families for many decades. Whether it is traditional Japanese souvenirs like fans, kimonos, and postcards, or street food, these 89 shops cover it all. Under the brightly green rooftop, you should try their best-sellers: classic sweets like colourful ‘Imo Yokan’ and ‘Ningyo-Yaki’.
Address: 1 Chome-36-3 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Located in the heart of Tokyo, Yasukuni Shrine was built in 1869 to honour the heroic souls who dedicated their lives for the country they loved. From domestic conflicts to national crises: Boshin War, the Seinan War, World War I, World War II, almost 2.5 million divinities have been enshrined at the ‘Yasukuni’ (means to preserve peace for the nation).
We all learn about the past to better the future. So, you can read their last messages and learn more about Japan’s wars from a new perspective at the Yushukan museum. Its yard features hundreds of sakura, including the representative one that the meteorological office uses to announce the start of the city's blossom season.
Address: 3 Chome-1-1 Kudankita, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 102-8246, Japan
What tells that you have arrived in Tokyo is the Tokyo Tower's striking red and white stripes. It is the second-highest tower in Japan for observation and communication. This Eiffel Tower-influenced Tower is a one-stop service for a memorable trip; Foot Town, the base offers a variety ofshops and eateries, as well as the E-sport entertainment centre, called Red Tokyo Tower, providing E-sport and interactive activities. Make your time to the 250-metre Top Deck where you will be astonished by a breathtaking 360-degree view embracing Mount Fuji and Tokyo Skytree.
Address: 4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan
If you are a nature-lover and/or a sportsman, Showa Memorial Park is one of your best places to visit in Tokyo. This beautiful Japanese garden is known for its autumn colour viewing and Hanami. In mid-November, the park turns to yellow, red, and brown because of maple trees and ginkgo trees. With multiple enormous lawns, you can picnic, relax, and appreciate the beauty of numerous flowers throughout the year: tulips, poppies, cherry blossom trees, nemophila, Hydrangea, and many more.
Explore Japan more at itsEmperor Showa Memorial Museum displays portraits and his belongings. Looking for something exhilarating? The Bonsai Museum has it all: a waterpark, sports facilities, a bouncing dome, and pedal boats. The park is highly accessible by the JR Chuo Line connecting central Tokyo.
Address: 3173 Midoricho, 立川市 Tokyo 190-0014, Japan
Because history connects the past to the present, the Edo-Tokyo Museum helps you understand Japan and how it came to be. The museum exhibits myriad aspects of the Edo period until the recent age such as Tokyo imperial palace, life of townspeople, entertainment, aesthetic, and Tokyo Today. You shouldn't miss the hands-on corner, Museum Laboratory, where you can touch some archaic gadgets. For a shutterbug, there are various corners to take a picture like classic vehicles and ancient employed tools.
Address: 1 Chome-4-1 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
Meguro River is one of the most beloved tokyo attractions, located near the city centre. Its most impressive feature is the 4 km stretch of the river that is bordered with over 800 cherry blossom trees, providing a breathtaking panorama. Visit during the peak season of sakuras to enjoy a festival including sundry cafes, restaurants, and food stalls. After that season, it is highly recommended to come back because all of the rosy petals will fall down and coat the river’s surface, creating mind-blowing scenery.
Address: Tokyo, Japan
The biggest indoor amusement park, Tokyo Joypolis boasts more than 20 kinds of activities. From games, virtual rides with motion, arcade, VR, and real roller coasters, this one of the trendy spots in the city extremely electrifies gamers. You cannot go wrong with ‘Half Pipe’, where you are spun and swung through sounds and lights. Moreover, their restaurant, D Lounge serves delicious foods and features an interactive digital wall where you can play carnival games.
Address: Japan, 〒135-0091 Tokyo, Minato City, Daiba, 1 Chome−6−1 3F~5F DECKS Tokyo Beach
Explore Kanda Myojin Shrine to step back in the Edo-period. Even though it is located near ‘Akihabara’, a famous Japan’s technological hub, the shrine still carries the architecturally traditional style. Stop by to pray for prosperity, good fortune, and marriage at the Kanda Myojin Shrine, which houses three major gods: Daikokuten, Ebisu, and Taira no Masakado. Numerous types of charms are sold. If you visit in May, you can relish the Kanda festival, one of the three greatest celebrations in Tokyo City.
Address: 2 Chome-16-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0021, Japan
The first Western-style garden in Japan, Hibiya Park is a year-round paradise for people who want to escape from hectic downtown, offering Japanese-style landscaping, cyclical flowers, quaint areas to unwind with beer or tea, and the opportunity to see some local fauna. You can notice the stone wall and a part of the pond from the Edo era. Plus, it is an ideal location for a romantic date during the holidays because of seasonal lighting and events.
Address: 1 Hibiyakoen, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0012, Japan
In front of Tokyo Station stands a stylish shopping centre, KITTE Marunouchi. Not only a wide selection of fashion stores but also an appealing view from the rooftop garden is the highlight. Furthermore, KITTE frequently holds a mesmerising museum which exhibits extraordinary collections with free admission! After shopping and learning at the museum, you should try Japanese specialties from different parts of the country then go to the top terrace for trainspotting.
Address: 2 Chome-7-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0005, Japan
Sensoji Temple’s Kaminarimon Gate is the iconic location of Asakusa. This majestic gate serves as the temple's entryway where tourists from around the world visit to take photos in front of the striking red lantern. It is recommended that you see the gate at night when it is illuminated and the massive crowd has dispersed. Look closely at the lantern’s base; you will see an elaborate dragon-shape carving. On the left and the right, there are statues of Raijin and Fujin, gods whom people pray for pleasant weather without storms and floods.
Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (Tōkyō Tochō) is one of the city’s major draws since travellers can view spectacular scenery from 202 metre-tall observation decks with no charge. Celebrated sites like Mount Fuji, Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Dome, and Meiji Shrine can be seen from the observatories in perfect weather. Both cafes and souvenir shops are available at each observatory.
Address: 2 Chome-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-8001, Japan
Not-to-be-miss landmark in Tokyo, Shibuya Crossing located next to Shibuya Station is the world's busiest intersection aged more than 100 years. The area is full of lights, advertisements, enormous television screens continuously flashing throughout the day; therefore, it is a representation of modern Japan, usually appearing in films and media such as Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift. Dozens of lively cafes, bars, and restaurants including an izakaya facing the crossroad offer window-side seats to observe the crowd and prime location to take a selfie.
Address: 1-chōme-2-1 DōgenzakaShibuya City Tokyo 150-0043, Japan
Unicorn Gundam Statue is an unimaginable sight to behold. In the south of DiverCity Tokyo Plaza stands a full-sized RX-0 Unicorn Gundam replica. If you are a huge fan of the ‘Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn Series’ or a robot-lover, you will undoubtedly get a thrill out of the 19 metre-tall Gundam switching 2 modes – Unicorn & Destroyer. At night, it is lit up, and Anime clips with theme songs are played. In addition, you may also like a robot restaurant, ‘Gundam Cafe’ in Akihabara.
Address: Japan, 〒135-0064 Tokyo, Koto City, Aomi, 1 Chome−1−10 ダイバーシティ東京プラザ内 2Fフェスティバル広場
Barefoot enter, immerse your body, and connect with the world at teamLab Planets Tokyo, a sensory-based digital art museum. Sight, touch, and sound lead you to meet an unbounded world. With 7 choices of massive artworks and 2 gardens, you shouldn’t overlook ‘Soft Black Hole’ to relax and influence others on pillow-soft hills and ‘Color-Changing Spheres’, hands-on balls which change colour when you touch: 12 colours comprising the natural material in Japan from blue seas to flowers and twilight.
Address: 6 Chome-1-16 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan
Tokyu Plaza Ginza conspicuously sits in the most famed commercial district of Tokyo, Ginza, with glass vessel design influenced by a traditional glass-cutting technique known as Edo Kiriko. Thus, it is a grand reflection of the wonderful paradox which tradition meets innovation. More than 120 eateries, luxury garment shops, accessory stores, and the astonishing Kiriko Lounge featuring a picturesque view are all housed here. Shopaholics can spend money like water without worrying since the plaza is the largest tax-free store in Tokyo.
Address: 5 Chome-2-1 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
Mount Takao is one of the best-loved tourist attractions in Tokyo, located 50 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station. There are multitudinous things to see and to do. The most popular one is a 90-minute hike (Trail Number 1) where you can spot Japanese macaques along the way at Monkey Park and pray for good fortune at Yakuoin Temple. Or, feast your eyes on Tokyo’s serene view embracing Mount Fuji at an observation deck nearby a cable car, not to mention a nature museum, Takao 599, Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu, and delicious food such as its specialty — Tororo Soba.
Address: Takaomachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 193-0844, Japan
Tokyo Dome City has it all: a baseball stadium, amusement park, restaurants, shopping centre, music venue, and martial arts exhibitions. All members in your family will be entertained all day. Not-to-be-miss activities available only here are riding ‘Thunder Dolphin’ a roller coaster going through a tall building, singing karaoke while riding the Ferris wheel, and watching a baseball game and learning its history from the museum and hall of fame.
Address: 1 Chome-3-61 Koraku, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 112-0004, Japan
If you have a childlike spirit with a bottomless stomach, nothing will satisfy your huge desire for kiddie journeys and your hunger better than Pokemon Center Mega. It is the newest and grandest Pokemon store in Tokyo. You will find everything from small to large limited-edition merchandise such as keychains, pokeballs, and Pokemon-themed stationary and treats, along with the Pokemon cafe called ‘Pikachu Sweets’, extending you lovely Poke-drinks and desserts.
Address: Japan, 〒170-6002 Tokyo, Toshima City, Higashiikebukuro, 3 Chome−1−2 サンシャインシティ 専門店街アルパ 2F
Ueno Park is one of the best places to visit in Tokyo, located just a short walk from Ueno Station. You will discover a paradise of rich culture and recreational activities. First, the brisk Ameyoko, 500-metre Shopping Street where food stalls serve Japanese delicacies at cheap prices. Then, drop by the oldest zoological garden in Japan, Ueno Zoo to spot wildlife and its star — pandas. After that, explore the Ueno Park’s national museums. All the museums are located close to each other such as the National Museum of Western Art, the Ueno Royal Museum, and the National Museum of Nature and Science.
Address: Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan
Sanrio Puroland is synonymous with ‘Kawaii location’. You will be surprised by its gigantic size. This indoor theme park is perfect for thrill-seekers and cuteness aficionados since it has all kinds of interactive rides, parades, live-performances, the pinkest world of Hello Kitty, and incredibly instagrammable decor. Meet your favourite character: Gudetama, My Melody, Pompompurin, Riklakkuma, Hello Kitty, and many more world-famous characters.
In addition to the pinkest world, you should visit the Wisdom Tree where you can climb to the top and ring the park’s loudest bell. Treat yourself lovely animal-shaped cuisine and choose some Kitty-themed souvenirs after all.
Address: 1 Chome-31 Ochiai, Tama, Tokyo 206-8588, Japan
Asakusa Hanayashiki is an old but gold amusement park, aged 170. Foreign visitors and locals who spend time at this oldest park in Japan will be filled with nostalgia for the 19th century. With over 20 rides, attractions, and lunchrooms, it is impossible to miss the signature ride, a 60-year-old roller coaster. Additionally, Haunted House also draws crowds because of a hair-raising character that has been told since the Edo Era. After having a blast, you should look into varied shops that have multiple souvenirs including the park’s original ones.
Address: 2 Chome-28-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Sunshine Aqua, aka Oasis in the sky, is one of the trendy spots in Tokyo standing on the Sunshine City World Import Mart’s rooftop. Family-friendly activities and resort-vibe make it a tranquil aquarium with an entertaining touch. You can catch sight of marine life across the world through its two-level aquarium. The special attractions are glow-in-the-dark Jellyfish Tunnel and Sunshine Aqua Ring, full of swimming sea lions. Aqua Pocket Gift Shop is a must since a wide variety of adorable and affordable souvenirs are offered.
Address: Japan, 〒170-8630 Tokyo, Toshima City, Higashiikebukuro, 3 Chome−1 サンシャインシティワールドインポートマートビル屋上
Tokorozawa Aviation, an aviation museum in Saitama, has an IMAX theatre, aeroplanes, and other installations, many of which are interactive. The highlight is its main hall where you will be stunned by a spectacular sight of old Japanese and American aircrafts, both on the ground and hanging densely in the air. All aviation enthusiasts will be fulfilled thanks toa flight simulator which you can practise taking off and landing and an air traffic control tower simulation, indicating how it is operated.
Address: 所沢航空記念公園内, 1 Chome-13 Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama 359-0042, Japan
Japan’s biggest national art museum, The National Art Center, impresses visitors at first sight with the exterior design of glass and iron wave andthe light-filled entrance. Its colossal space offers a cafe, a restaurant, a library, a museum shop, and an auditorium. This Tokyo metropolitan art museum does not have permanent exhibits, unlike the majority. Therefore, its 12 galleries can hold numerous exhibitions at once, and you are sure to discover a favourite. Don’t forget to notice the futuristic interior design and try French fine dining.
Address: 7 Chome-22-2 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo 106-8558, Japan
Seated on the edge of Tokyo Bay, a man-made beach, Odaiba Seaside Park features magnificent views of the metropolis, particularly the Tokyo Tower and Rainbow Bridge glowing up at night. The park is known for its seaside activities such as windsurfing and paddle boarding. If you want to relax rather than trying extreme sports, going on an excursion by water buses is a great choice. What stand conspicuously are a replica of the Statue of Liberty and one of the world’s tallest Ferris wheels. After having fun here, you can go shopping at nearby complexes: Aqua City Odaiba, Palette Town, and DECK Tokyo Beach.
Address: 1 Chome-4 Daiba, Minato City, Tokyo 135-0091, Japan
Ghibli Museumis an animation and art museum of Studio Ghibli founded by Miyazaki Hayao who produced fabled length films like My neighbour Totoro and Spirited Away. All of your beloved characters will definitely be there. Totorois waiting at the entrance to welcome guests to the settings that often appear in the films. Visit A Boy’s Room to get inspired by ‘Where a Film is Born’. Watch Ghibli's special animated short film at the saturn theatre. Then, make time to ‘Tri Hawks’, a library filled with inspiring books recommended by Miyazaki. Plus, the museum’s Straw Hat Cafe and Mamma Aiuto Shop cannot be missed.
Address: 1 Chome-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan
Plunge into a dreamy world abounding with childhood fantasy, imagination, and play at Tokyo Disneysea. As its name implies, this maritime-themed park’s location is next to the bay. Typically, Tokyo Disneyland is popular among families with children while Tokyo DisneySea is well-liked by young adults and couples. Among the seven zones inside, must-try rides are the Toy Story Mania, Tower of Terror free fall, Aquatopia, and Indiana Jones Adventure. If you are a big fan of Toy Story, stay at the Tokyo Disney Resort to sleep in Andy's room and see what other surprises lie in wait!
Address: 1-13 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-8511, Japan
A heaven for families with kids, Kidzania Tokyo located down near Tokyo Bay is an amusement park where children can experience ‘working’ in various fields merrily. This indoor work-themed park built in a children’s scale consists of 60 buildings and almost 100 jobs to learn and develop social skills like a police officer, a doctor, a pizzaiolo, and a firefighter. Kids will be paid in KidZos, which they can buy goods and services.
Address: Japan, 〒135-8614 Tokyo, Koto City, Toyosu, 2 Chome−4−9 アーバンドック ららぽーと豊洲1 ノースポート3階
Lake Sagami Pleasure Forest, a matchless theme park for all ages, is home to the celebrated Sagamiko illumination festival held in November to April. At the park, you can enjoy day and night activities. During the day, visitors mostly jump on electrifying rides: flying swing merry-go-round, kart racing, tea cups, and sky riding. Not to mention, a relaxing machine, ferris wheel where Lake Sagami and the heart of Tokyo can be seen. In the evening, you can relax and unwind at the Ururi’s onsen and the camping-barbecue zone.
Address: 1634 Wakayanagi, Midori Ward, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0175, Japan
Tsukiji Outer Market is one of the freshest and biggest Food Towns of Japan. All kinds of traditional Japanese cuisine, especially seafood are offered by more than 400 small shops lining the street. The market’s history dates back to the Edo era when fishermen were invited by Tokugawa Shogun to serve seafood. So, you should taste delectable breakfast like sushi, onigiri, fresh seafood, bite-size egg rolls, and 60-year-old Yonemoto Coffee. Some restaurants open 24 hours; hence, walk around to explore the culinary culture of the country.
Address: 4 Chome-16-2 Tsukiji, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
Yomiuri Land is one of the best places to visit in Tokyo serving up fun and thrill. From 44 attractions to 1,000 cherry blossom trees in Spring and nighttime Jewellumination in Winter, the park makes its guests more than ecstatic all year round. Divided into 8 areas, the park is suitable for families with children; there are innumerable rides for kids like Kids Railway Oliver, Dessert Cup, and Jurassic Car. Adults will be elated by Bandit, a large-scale roller coaster running through treetops, bungee jump, and other attractions. If you want to recharge your body’s batteries, there are multifarious food courts.
Address: 4015-1 Yanokuchi, Inagi, Tokyo 206-8566, Japan
A Japanese Buddhist temple located next to Tokyo Tower, Zojo-ji Temple spotlights traditional Buddhist architecture and art, housing a mausoleum of the Tokugawa dynasty, the city’s oldest wooden gate, Sangedatsumon, and a stately museum. The temple originally was the temple of the family when they ruled Japan in the Edo Period. Today, visitors can explore famous paintings and the design of the tombs at theTreasure Gallery. Right next to the museum, Jizo garden stands, lined with stone statues representing unborn children.
Address: 4 Chome-7-35 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan
Tokyo Sea Life Park in Edogawa is the descendant of Japan’s first aquarium, Ueno aquarium. The park is overflowing with 650 species from Arctic and Antarctic Oceans, the Sea of Japan and many more. You cannot miss its signature, a tremendous 2200-ton donut-shaped tank, in which bluefin tunas can freely cruise. Other marine life can be seen as well: cute penguins, puffins, and auks. Moreover, the aquarium is age and child friendly because there are several activities to join and wheelchairs & pushchairs available all over the museum. Unlike others, the aquarium has a restaurant that offers a wide variety of foods.
Address: 6 Chome-2-3 Rinkaicho, Edogawa City, Tokyo 134-8587, Japan
Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue is widely known as one of the best places to visit in Tokyo during autumn since exquisite golden yellow ginkgo tree line 300-metre-long avenue. The ideal time to visit is the late November to December, when the trees fully turn golden and are illuminated at night. At this peak season, Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival is celebrated; thus, you can enjoy gourmet food, street performances and pick up fine merchandise.
Address: 2 Chome-付近 Kitaaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0061, Japan
A real gem of Tokyo that is super easy on the eyes, Tsukiji Hongan-ji has marvellous Indian-styled architecture. It is a Buddhist temple illuminating the custom of Jodo Shinshu, Japan’s subdivision of Buddhism. The treasures belong to Prince Shotoku, Shonyō Shōnin, and Shinran Shonin making it a captivating sacred site. Don’t miss a memorial to the Japanese rock icon, Hide at the main hall where you will be staggered by a large cathedral-like interior.
Address: 3 Chome-15-1 Tsukiji, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-8435, Japan
Located in the heart of Roppongi, Tokyo Midtown contains a superabundance of attractions. Whether it is the best hotel in Tokyo, a gargantuan, deluxe shopping and dining centre housing Suntory Museum of Art, or a Japanese-landscaped garden for Hanami, this mixed-use area has it all. The other museum around is 21_21 Design Sight displaying temporary art and design. Indeed, you cannot go wrong with Tokyo Midtown!
Address: 9 Chome-7-1 Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0052, Japan
Have you ever heard a story about the most loyal dog in Japan? The legend says that professor Ueno adopted a dog named Hachiko, who walked him to Shibuya Station everyday. After Ueno’s working hour, the dog came back for his return. Regrettably, he died before saying a last goodbye. Everyday, Hachiko visited the station for a decade, and it came to his own death. Hachikō Memorial Statue is not only a place for taking photos with Hachikō statue but also a legendary meeting point for friends and couples, just metres away from Shibuya Crossing.
Address: 2 Chome-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan
Escape from the chaos in central Tokyo to chill out the atmosphere at Kasai Rinkai Park, the largest park in the downtown, located across Tokyo Disney Resort. The park’s landmark is the 117-metre-tall Ferris wheel which is lit up at night and looks like diamonds and flowers. You can view Tokyo Bay and even Mount Fuji up there. Don’t forget the sea bird sanctuary area, if you are a bird lover.
Address: 6 Chome-2 Rinkaicho, Edogawa City, Tokyo 134-0086, Japan
Gotokuji Temple’s most visible feature is 1,000 Manekineko statuettes, a symbol of good luck which are donated by worshipers. This prodigious temple bears more than 10 attractions to explore. The most prominent spot is ‘Shofuku-den’, where visitors pray for prosperity and happiness and devote different sizes of Manekineko. Plus, Bonsho is certainly worth your while since it is the most historic Buddhist bell, reflecting the culture of Setagaya through a piece of art.
Address: 2 Chome-24-7 Gotokuji, Setagaya City, Tokyo 154-0021, Japan
The glorious world of design, DESIGN SIGHT was founded by an award-winning fashion designer and sculpted by a distinguished architect. Its master draws are special exhibits, talk-shows ,and workshops highlighting both traditional and modern concepts of architecture and design. Here visitors are encouraged to see the plain things used in daily life from different perspectives when exploring the design hidden inside. Don’t forget to look up at the unique steel-curved roof, under the concept ‘a piece of cloth’
Address: Japan, 〒107-0052 Tokyo, Minato City, Akasaka, 9 Chome−7−6 東京ミッドタウン ミッドタウン・ガーデン
Another museum that focuses on your everyday life but through a scientific lens, this museum offers interactive robot and AI and fascinating activities; you should get in the International Space Station living corner, and the hands-on section to learn about the internet network. Just want to sit back and relax? Head to the Gaia Theater, depicting dynamic scientific-based 3D models of the galaxy.
Address: 2 Chome-3-6 Aomi, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0064, Japan
If you are a flower lover, put the Former Furukawa Gardens on your list! It is the fusion of Japanese and Western styles: a big British-designed house on a hill, rose beds on slopes, and a Meiji-style Japanese garden at the bottom. Visit on the peak seasons of roses, May or October, you will be amazed by the sea of rose colours because this idyllic garden turns red, orange, yellow, white, and even pink.
Address: 1 Chome-27-39 Nishigahara, Kita City, Tokyo 114-0024, Japan