places to visit north of tokyo

20 Cities Near Tokyo for Unforgettable Day Trips

If you’re feeling tired of Tokyo or simply looking for ideas for a fun day trip, the good news is there are so many cities near Tokyo waiting to be discovered. You could explore the Edo-period buildings in the charming town of Sawara, gaze up at the giant Buddha statue in Kamakura, or explore the shopping boutiques housed inside Yokohama’s Red Brick Warehouse to start.

Each of the 20 cities near Tokyo mentioned in this article will make unforgettable day trips, are great places to visit, and will hopefully inspire you to hop on a train or bus and get out of Tokyo to explore. Happy reading!

• Tochigi City
• Shizuoka City

20 Cities Near Tokyo to Explore for Unforgettable Day Trips

1. yokohama.

Japan’s second largest city and very close neighbor just south of the city of Tokyo, Yokohama has many sights and attractions you won’t want to miss. As one of the first Japanese cities to open to trade with the West in the mid-19 th century, Yokohama was a port city that became a major economic and cultural hub for Japan.

Today, you can still see the foreign influence in its architecture and culture. Major attractions include the Minato Mirai 21 shopping outlet, the iconic Yokohama Landmark Tower, the Red Brick Warehouse shopping and restaurant complex, and Japan’s largest Chinatown. If you have time be sure to visit some of the historic homes and mansions that are open to the public or take a night cruise passing the many industrial factories which make for a real Bladerunner-type experience after dark.

Don’t Miss:

• Cup Noodles Museum: A museum dedicated to instant and cup noodles as well as its creator Momofuku Ando where you can make your own original flavor of cup noodles!
• Chinatown: Explore the streets of Japan’s largest Chinatown and taste all the delicious food on offer.
• Kirin Beer Factory: A large brewery offering tours and a tasting room of famous beers.

Travel time from Tokyo: 20 minutes by train

2. Kamakura

The city of Kamakura , also known as ‘mini-Kyoto’ thanks to its volume of shrines and temples was the unofficial Japanese capital from 1185 to 1333 during the reign of the Kamakura shogunate. After the fall of the shogunate, the city continued to dominate the east of the country for several hundred years before gradually ceding influence to surrounding areas.

Today, Kamakura is a small but popular destination for international and domestic tourists due to its proximity to central Tokyo, its high number of seasonal festivals, Buddhist temples, and Shinto shrines, and other historical attractions. Like Kyoto, it also has its own bamboo forest. As a coastal city, it is also a great place to visit during the summer months.

• The Great Buddha: A large bronze statue of Amitabha on the grounds of the Kotoku-in Buddhist temple.
• Endoshima: A small tourist island off the coast of Kamakura known for the Enoshima shrine, good beaches, surfing, and hot springs.
• Komachi-dori: A bustling shopping street lined with shops and restaurants.

Travel time from Tokyo: 1 hour by train

The small city of Nikko located north of Tokyo in Tochigi prefecture is perhaps best known for Toshogu, the grand Shinto shrine, and the mausoleum of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate that ruled Japan for several centuries, and the Futarasan shrine which dates back more than 1,200 years.

Other attractions include the Nikko National Park with its beautiful view of the mountains, natural hot springs, and seasonal colors, particularly in the autumn months. Nikko is the perfect destination for a mini-getaway from Tokyo and is home to many traditional ryokans and hot-spring resorts.

• Toshogu Shrine: One of Japan’s many UNESCO world heritage sites, a Shinto shrine and burial place of Tokugawa Ieyasu.
• Shinkyo Bridge: (pictured above) A red and black bridge close to the entrance of the nearby Futarasan shrine.
• Kegon Falls: One of Japan’s most famous waterfalls.

Travel time from Tokyo: 2 hours 20 minutes by train

Hakone is a mountain town best known for its many hot springs, natural beauty, and impressive views of Mount Fuji, making it a popular destination for tourists. Just 100km west of Tokyo, it is a good option for a day trip.

A popular way of exploring Hakone is by circling the region on five different modes of transport including a train, cable car, ropeway, boat, and bus, this is called the Hakone Round Course . It can be done using the Hakone Freepass , and if you start early enough, it can be completed in a day trip from Tokyo.

• Hakone Round Course: Perhaps its main attraction and a popular and scenic way of exploring the Hakone region via different modes of transport.
• Hakone Open Air Museum: Japan’s first open-air museum features collections of works by many famous artists.
• Lake Ashi: Also known as Lake Ashinoko, a scenic crater lake that forms part of the Hakone region.

Sawara is a charming town known for its many well-preserved Edo-period-style buildings and waterways. During the Edo period, Sawara town was a popular transport hub for businesses, some of which are still in operation and lend to the old-world atmosphere.

Visitors can take a boat tour along the Ono River to enjoy the traditional architecture or watch the seasonal Sawara Matsuri Festival, where floats of giant dolls are wheeled through the streets.

• ‘Little Edo’ boat tour: A sightseeing cruise along the Ono River past Edo-period buildings.
• Suigo Sawara Ayame Park: A botanical garden located in the Suigo-Tsukuba National Park.
• Katori-Jingu Shrine: A 2,700-year-old Shinto shrine, and head of approx. 400 Katori shrines around the country.

Travel time from Tokyo: 1 hour 50 minutes by train

Located on the North-Western border of Tokyo, the historic city of Kawagoe is a popular destination for a day trip from the capital of Japan. ‘Little Edo’ as it is known locally is home to many historic sites constructed in the Edo-period style. During this period, the city prospered under the authority of feudal families loyal to the Tokugawa shogunate and it became a commercial and transport center.

Some of Kawagoe’s main attractions include Kitain Temple, a Buddhist temple known for its main hall which was originally part of the original Edo Castle, and Kawagoe Castle, the closest castle to Tokyo open to visitors.

• Warehouse District: Retro shopping street with many traditional buildings.
• Kashiya Yokocho (Candy Alley): A shopping street known for its huge variety of penny candy stores.
• Kawagoe Matsuri: A hugely popular festival held on the third weekend of October each year, with extravagant musical floats and local food stalls.

Travel time from Tokyo: 1 hour 15 minutes by train

7. Odawara City

This modest-sized port city of Kanagawa prefecture on the southern coast of Japan looking out across Sagami Bay once was host to several key military defeats and successes throughout Japan’s history, notably due to its castle which was once one of the best-defended in the country.

One of Odawara’s most notable attractions, the 550-year-old castle, which once belonged to Togukawa Ieyasu, has been destroyed and rebuilt many times since its construction, and the reconstructed keep seen today is a draw for many tourists.

In addition to the castle, other popular places include the Prefectural Museum of Natural History and the scenic Enoura Observatory.

• Odawara Castle: A 500-year-old Japanese fortification constructed during the Kamakura period. A landmark of Odawara City.
• Wanpaku Land: A large children’s amusement park, with a botanical garden and children’s play areas.
• Sakawa Coast: A large, popular, and scenic beach on the southern edge of Odawara City facing Sagami Bay.

Travel time from Tokyo: 49 minutes by train

Just east of Tokyo, Narita is perhaps best known as the site of one of Tokyo’s two main international airports, however, Narita has plenty more to offer visitors than jetlag and airport security checks!

Close to the train station is Omotesando, an 800m street of shops built in the style of the Edo period, and restaurants offering many local dishes such as freshwater eel.

One of its most popular attractions is Naritasan, a Buddhist temple founded over 1,000 years ago by a disciple of the famous Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi. The large grounds and beautiful historic buildings include the Great Main Hall and a gilded three-storied pagoda.

• Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple: A very popular thousand-year-old Buddhist temple located in a large temple complex in Narita City.
• Naritasan Park: A large and beautiful Japanese garden with plum blossoms, ponds, and seasonal plants.
• Omotesando Shopping Street: An 800m shopping street home to around 150 restaurants and souvenir shops

Travel time from Tokyo: 1 hour 20 minutes by train

9. Utsunomiya

North of Tokyo, Utsunomiya is the largest city in Tochigi prefecture and perhaps best known for its gyoza, crispy Japanese dumplings filled with ground pork, and other herbs. There are more than 200 gyoza restaurants in Utsunomiya specializing in variations of the popular dish including chicken, pork, seafood, and kimchi.

Other notable sites located around the city include Utsunomiya Castle (pictured), which was the site of a major battle between the Tokugawa shogunate and imperial forces during the shogunate’s decline. Also, The Venus of Gyoza statue, a half dumpling, half goddess statue that can be found near Utsunomiya train station. You can also take an underground lake cruise through the Ohya quarry if you’re brave enough!

• Oya History Museum: A busy and awe-inspiring museum built inside a massive underground quarry.
• Local gyoza dishes: Utsunomiya is known for its local variations of the famous Japanese dumpling. Many restaurants offer their own unique styles and flavors.
• Heiwa Kannon: A 27-meter-high statue of Kannon hand carved into the wall of the former Oya stone quarry.

10. Tochigi City

North of Tokyo, Tochigi city is in the very south of the prefecture and is its third largest city. During World War II it escaped significant damage, so many of its historical buildings such as shops, temples, and traditional storehouses called kura still remain in the city center. This includes the Kuranomachi Museum of Art, a 200-year-old museum housing local art and ceramics.

The Yanaka Reservoir, a confluence of three major rivers that run through Tochigi, can be found south of the city. It is a popular destination for sailboats and windsurfing, and in 2012 it was designated a wetland site of international importance by UNESCO.

• Hike Mt. Ohira: A short trip from the city, this mountain is known for its cherry blossoms during spring and the hydrangea festival in June.
• Try an Edo Experience: In keeping with the town’s traditional architecture, try an Edo experience such as traditional sweets making, incense making, or kimono rental.
• Ashikaga Flower Park: A large park with stunning seasonal flower displays, also known for its beautiful 150-year-old wisteria tree.

Travel time from Tokyo: 1 hour 45 minutes by train

11. Takasaki

Just over an hour northeast of Tokyo, Takasaki is the largest city in Gunma prefecture. During the Edo period, it prospered as a major transportation hub due to its proximity to the Nakasendo highway which connected Edo and Kyoto.

It is famously home to the Daruma doll, a hollow round traditional Japanese doll modeled after Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism. It is considered a talisman of good luck in Japan and is an extremely popular gift.

Just outside the city, a giant 41-meter statue of the Buddhist goddess of Mercy, Kannon, can be found atop Mt Kannonyama. Visitors can enter the statue and climb the nine floors for a beautiful view of Takasaki.

• Haruna Jinja Shrine: An old and photogenic 1,400-year-old Shinto shrine set among the rocky frame of Mt. Haruna.
• Takasaki Byakue Daikannon statue: A statue of the Buddhist Goddess Kannon, located on the summit of Mt. Kannonyama.
• Mount Haruna Ropeway: A popular cable car that offers aerial views of Lake Haruna from 1,391 meters atop the mountain.

12. Kashima

Kashima city sits on the eastern coast of Japan facing the North Pacific Ocean. Its location kept it mostly out of the conflicts of Japan’s feudal history, however, the city emerged as a significant industrial zone for steel, and a commercial fishing port.

The city is home to Kashima Shrine, a Shinto Shrine that is one of the oldest and most visited shrines in Japan, particularly between the first and third of January when more than half a million people come to celebrate the new year. Kashima is also home to the Kashima Antlers, a major team in the J1 League, the top tier of Japan’s professional soccer league.

• Kashima Jingu Torii gate: A unique torii gate located in the waters of the Wani River, a short distance from Kashima Jingu Shinto Shrine.
• Deer Park at Kashima Jingu Shrine: A wooded garden on the grounds of the Kashima Jingu Shrine which includes large numbers of local deer.
• Hirai Beach: The Gold Coast of Ibaraki, a white sandy beach facing out to the North Pacific Ocean.

Travel time from Tokyo: 2 hours by train

13. Karuizawa

The resort town of Karuizawa in Nagano prefecture is known for its mild weather and unrivaled outdoor scenery. Fans of the Japanese reality show Terrace House may also recognize it as the location for the ‘Opening New Doors’ series.

Karuizawa is one of the oldest and most popular summer resorts in Japan. A few miles west of Takasaki, Karuizawa also benefitted from its proximity to the Nakasendo highway during the Edo period and later developed a reputation as a summer resort for foreign expatriates and Japanese tourists.

Visitors to the area enjoy many outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, skiing, and sightseeing some of the local natural beauty spots such as the active volcano Mount Asama, and the Karuizawa Shiraito Falls (pictured above).

• Karuizawa Shiraito Falls: A peaceful and beautiful arc-shaped waterfall surrounded by green woodland and mountains.
• Uchimura Kanzo Memorial Stone Church: An unusual glass and stone church dedicated to the memory of the founder of the Nonchurch Movement of Christianity.
• The Ginza shopping street: This street runs along the old Nakasendo highway and is home to many local shops.

Travel time from Tokyo: 1 hour 30 minutes by train

14. Chichibu

The rural city of Chichibu located northwest of Tokyo in Saitama prefecture is known for its mountain shrines. Thirty-four temples reach across the mountains that surround the city, forming the Chichibu Kannon Pilgrimage route, one of three circuits that form the larger 100 Kannon Pilgrimage Route, dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy.

The scenic natural environment and proximity to Tokyo make Chichibu a popular destination for such sightseeing attractions as Hitsujiyama Park, the Icicles of Mitosuchi, and Shibanozakura no Oka. Tourists can also take boat journeys through the rock formations of the Arakawa River.

Chichibu is also known for its brewing industry, its four main breweries based throughout the city were constructed during the Edo period between 1603 and 1867.

• Hitsujiyama Park: A park in Chichibu city known for its beautiful pink moss fields which come into bloom in the spring.
• Chichibu Shrine: A 1,000-year-old Shinto shrine known for the annual Chichibu Night festival which takes place every December.
• Icicles of Misotsuchi: A scenic and dramatic display of icicles formed from spring water that can grow as long as 8 meters.

An hour southwest of Tokyo in Shizuoka prefecture, Atami city lies in Sagami Bay facing south towards the Pacific Ocean. Known for its warm weather and relatively mild winters, the city sits on the edge of a volcanic region.

The name ‘Atami’ which means ‘hot ocean’ refers to the city’s famous hot springs which have been popular with visitors since the 8 th century. In the 1980s many hotel resorts and luxurious ryokan were constructed as the tourism boom grew, however, Japan’s economic turmoil in the 90s led the industry into decline. Recently, Atami has seen growth in tourism again due to its proximity to Tokyo.

• Atami Castle: A tourist attraction from the 1950s that offers Edo-period costumes, popular cherry blossom viewing spots, and an exhibition of Japanese castles.
• MOA Museum of Art: A private museum built to house the art collection of millionaire and religious leader Mokichi Okada.
• Atami Plum Garden: A popular and scenic Japanese garden known for its hot springs, 500 plum trees, and festival that is held between January and March each year.

Travel time from Tokyo: 1 hour 10 minutes by train

16. Chiba City

The largest and capital city of Chiba prefecture is less than an hour away by train across Tokyo Bay. Its proximity to the capital of Japan makes it a convenient spot to escape the crowds for a day or two.

One of the best ways to explore Chiba city is via the world’s longest suspended monorail which snakes through the city for more than 15km. Some of the city’s most scenic and popular attractions include Chiba Park, a famous spot for cherry blossom viewing, and Chiba Port Park on the edge of the bay. Another popular draw is its proximity to Tokyo Disneyland, which is less than 40 minutes away by train.

• Inage Seaside Park Pool: A huge seaside park with a range of different pools and waterslides and other water activities.
• Chiba Port Tower: A 125-meter-tall tower and Chiba city landmark that includes an observation deck and restaurant.
• Inohana Castle: The ruins of a nearly thousand-year-old hilltop castle with many reconstructed elements and a popular cherry blossom viewing spot.

Travel time from Tokyo: 50 minutes by train

17. Ashikaga

The small city of Ashikaga in Tochigi prefecture can be reached by taking the Shinkansen north of Tokyo and then a local train west into the southwestern corner of Tochigi prefecture.

Known throughout most of its history as a producer of silks and other textiles and parks, the city’s normally humid climate makes it an ideal environment for wildlife. Its spring wisteria blooms and the illuminated gardens of Ashigaka Flower Park are popular draws for tourists.

There are also several historical sites located throughout the city worth visiting including Ashikaga School, the oldest in Japan, and Bannaji Temple, an 800-year-old Buddhist temple surrounded by a moat and wall.

• Ashikaga Flower Park: A beautiful park known for its picturesque wisteria displays and multicolored flower tunnels.
• Coco Farm and Winery: A Japanese vineyard surrounded by mountains offerings tours, tastings, and a souvenir shop.
• Ashikaga Gakko: The oldest school in Japan constructed roughly 1,200 years ago. Originally used by Zen monks to teach Confucianism.

Travel time from Tokyo: 2 hours 15 minutes by train

18. Okutama

Okutama can be reached in just over two hours by train on the north-westernmost limits of Tokyo Metropolis. The town sits inside the massive Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, and a day trip from Tokyo can feel a little like you are escaping into the wilderness with its scenic lakes, impressive mountains, and lush green forests all around.

Best known for its outdoor activities and relaxing environment, some of Okutama’s attractions include Hatonosu Canyon, a large gorge along the Tama River with walking trails, beautiful shrines, and hotels, and Sawanoi Sake Brewery, a 300-year-old brewery nestled among the trees alongside the Tama River.

• Nippara Limestone Caves: A colorful and breathtaking 1,200-meter-long cave network and the largest in the Kanto region.
• Mugiyama Floating Bridge: Nicknamed ‘Drum Can Bridge’, it is one of two floating bridges visitors can take across Lake Okutama when water levels allow.
• Lake Okutama: A variety of sights, activities, shrines, restaurants, cafes, and seasonal attractions can be found all around the lake.

19. Shizuoka City

The capital city of Shizuoka prefecture, Shizuoka City is located halfway between Tokyo and Nagoya, and is known for its impressive views of Mount Fuji, and green tea. It is considered one of the best places in Japan for tea growing.

Originally within the province of Suruga which was established in the Nara period (710 to 794), the city grew in prominence in the early 17 th century when Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu abdicated and established a second court in Sunpu.

Located along the Tokaido route, one of the historic five routes that connected Tokyo (Edo) to the outer provinces during the Edo period, the city became known for supplying most of Japan’s tea.

• Sunpu Castle: The ruins of Tokugawa Ieyasu’s former castle, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate.
• Miho no Matsubara beach: A 7km-long beach lined with pine trees and a popular viewing spot for Mount Fuji.
• Kunozan Toshogu Shrine: A 400-year-old Shinto Shrine and the original burial place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the famous Shogun who united Japan.

The fourth most populated city in Japan, and the capital city of Aichi prefecture, Nagoya city became a major industrial hub for Japan after the Meiji Restoration, around the beginning of the 20 th century. Unfortunately, this also made it a target of air raids during World War II, which destroyed a lot of the industry and much of Nagoya Castle.

Today, it is once again a center of economic strength for Japan, and several major manufacturing companies, such as the Toyota Motor Corporation, are based in the city. It’s also home to the famous Legoland theme park in Japan.

Popular sites include the SCMaglev and Railway Park – a museum tracing the history of trains in Japan, and Nagashima Resort, a theme park which is home to some of Japan’s best rollercoasters.

• Nagoya Castle: A 400-year-old Japanese castle constructed during the Edo period. Destroyed during WWII and has been under reconstruction since.
• Atsuta Jingu Shrine: A revered Shinto Shrine believed to have been constructed around 900 years ago to house the legendary sword Kusanagi no Tsurugi.
• Ghibli Park: A theme park that opened in 2022 located just outside Nagoya city, dedicated to movies by the famous Studio Ghibli.

Travel time from Tokyo: 1 hour 40 minutes by train

Hopefully this list of 20 cities near Tokyo has given you some ideas for day trips based on your interests and how far you want to travel! And if you are heading to Tokyo, be sure to check out my popular 5-day Tokyo itinerary!

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Written by:

Steve Csorgo

From Melbourne, Australia, Steve lives in Niigata City, two hours north-west of Tokyo. His passions include discovering local sake, dining at interesting restaurants and travelling as much of Japan as possible.

• Area Surrounding Areas Of Yamagata Aizu-wakamatsu
• Category Other Sightseeing

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Why Northern Japan is a fabulous place to Travel

“It’s so green”, murmurs the gentleman seated next to me, as our plane descends into the regional airport of Akita in Northern Japan.

It is just over an hour since our take off from Haneda Airport, views over the Tokyo skyline spectacular – the clear day showing off Mt Fuji in all its glory. Yet the landscape now is a vibrant patchwork of forest and precison neat rice fields – another world all together.

The scene mid-summer is green – and as I am about to find out; clean, welcoming, historic, rustic, fascinating and very much why Northern Japan is a fabulous place to travel.

On previous visits our family has been thrilled by the temples in Kyoto, enjoyed exploring every corner of Tokyo, skied the Alps of Nagano. Yet the Regional Areas (known as prefectures) are unchartered territory – Northern Japan is where you should be visiting for a taste of  Japanese Culture off the beaten track.

I hesitate to make comparisons between countries, however if pressed I would say first impressions make me think of New Zealand (replace the rice fields with wheat fields).

A seamless transfer from our dawn flight from Sydney via ANA (their 787 Dreamliner aircraft are superb); we arrive in Akita in time for morning tea.

Tohoku Region of Japan  (North East Region), comprises six prefectures on Japan’s largest island of Honshu.

We visit  Akita, Aomori  and  Iwate  – as yet unspoiled by major tourism – one of those destinations you really need visit …now as it won’t stay a secret for long!

I cover quite a bit of ground in five days in ‘Rustic Japan‘ – yet leave feeling there is so much more to discover…

The western side faces the Sea of Japan and has abundant flowing rivers, flatlands, and expanses of rice growing on fertile farmlands (even in the heat of Summer it was green, everywhere). High mountains surround the northern, southern and eastern sides. The inland areas are blanketed with heavy snowfalls in the winter – thus Akita (& Iwate) is known for Skiing in Winter (26 Resorts) and Cherry Blossoms in Spring.

A former castle town and samurai stronghold (often called ‘little Kyoto’). While Kakunodate Castle no longer remains, the town is famous for samurai tradition and the magnificent Cherry Tree display in Spring (late April-early May) – remarkably unchanged since 1620, the samurai district still has some of the best examples of Japanese samurai architecture.

The village is charming, we stroll and view local craftsmen, enjoy a variety of Japanese cuisine (my pick is black sesame ice cream), the gardens are verdant and the museums manageable for even the youngest travellers.

Akita Museum of Art

Designed by renowned architect Ando Tadao. The museum exhibits a large collection of work by Fujita Tsuguharu (1886-1968), also known as Leonard Foujita, who is arguably Japan’s most famous Western style painter. The Akita Museum of Art is one of the few places in the world to exhibit a collection of his works, and features his twenty meter long mural “Annual Events in Akita”, illustrating Akita life in the four seasons, on permanent display as the museum’s focal piece.

(This attraction escaped my attention this time, on the list for my next visit)

Lake Towada

Part of the Towada-Hachimantai National Park and is the largest caldera (volcanic crater) lake on Honshu.

Lake Towada-ko is at the top of a 400-meter-high mountain on the border between Aomori and Akita. A peaceful retreat for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty, well known for the Autumn colours. We spend the night at the Prince Hotel Towada, the mist rising across the Lake at first light is otherworldly – other guests are Japanese, seeking the peace and Onsen experience.

AKITA IS BEST FOR

Everyone…a relatively hassle free opportunity to get out of the well worn travel route and into the Japanese countryside. Even if you travel no further within the Region you will be well served having visited the area surrounding Akita.

Lake Towada (& Oirase Stream) are stunning natural beauties – however I suggest a driving holiday with a languid time frame as they are off the beaten track.

Fly – 60 min from Tokyo Haneda to Akita Airport, and 40 min by bus from the airport to JR Akita Station.

Morioka is the Capital (2.5 hours North of Tokyo by Shinkansen) – Iwate Prefecture gives visitors to enjoy historical sites (Hiraizumi – Temples), Hot Springs (Onsen), nature (Autumn colours, cherry blossom in Spring), action (golf, skiing, watersports, hiking).

Our visit coincides with a local Festival (Chagu Chagu Umako Horse Festival), which on the face of it doesn’t sound like my cup of tea – yet surprises are in store.

We are dropped a few kilometres from the start of the ‘parade’, as the sun climbs higher the vast blue of sky highlights Mt Iwate in the distance – snow just still visible on the peak. Our path takes us along rice fields, past a cluster of Media gathered to capture the colourful event. We reach Sozen-jinja Shrine just as the families finalise their horses and costumes.

200 years ago farmers first organised this event to celebrate the concluion of the hard toil of rice planting.

Today it is a vibrant morning offering an insight to the local community – I feel honoured to be a part of it – my suggestion is to watch the beginning of the parade and enjoy morning tea before visiting the golden Shrine – a magical morning.

The air is filled with the smell of stalls offering local cuisine for sale – its not long since breakfast so I opt for a refreshing Crushed Strawberry Ice…

Have you heard of the tradition of the Wanko Noodle challenge? Neither had I, and it is an Iwate dining experience like no other.

Not for the faint hearted, guests are invited to consume as many bowl of Soba Noodles as they can (a member of our group makes it to 102..) – a certificate issued when you reach 100+ (my efforts a paltry 4 bowls…). A great value ‘when in Rome’ experience.

Several restaurants across Morioka specialize in Wanko Soba.

Sake Tasting

We take a tour through the process of making this Japanese national drink at  Asabiraki Shuzo (award wining brewery) – however the highlight is tasting at the tour culmination. I ask if it is appropriate to drink Sake hot or cold – the tip; the finer the brew should be sampled cold – so now you know.

Morioka Handi-Works Square

We make the regional speciality biscuits (peanut, best eaten warm), craft wooden horses (a surprisingly therapeutic activity), and admire centuries old techniques of iron teapot skill. It is a fun location I know my boys would enjoy.

We stay at Shizukuishi Prince Hotel, nestled on the edge of a 36 hole Golf Course & Ski Resort. The Onsen (Hot Baths) overlooks the forest – the guest rooms (recently renovated), offer a fabulous perspective of the surrounding countryside.

Everyone – families will love the variety of activities,  skiers will be spoilt for choice and golfers can choose from many stunning (& challenging) courses.

By train – Two hours 30 minutes from Tokyo Station to Morioka Station by the JR Tohoku Shinkansen Line.

The Northernmost region on Honshu, containing the world’s largest virgin forest of beech trees (named a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Reminders of ancient times still abound. Cherry Blossom in this region is said to be so magnificent many Japanese state the experience as the one they would most like to have before dying…

Oirase Gorge

An easy walking trail follows Oirase Stream, stunning in every season – we visit in Summer when Waterfalls are cascade and the cooler air is welcome. The trail is 9 kilometers long and takes about 2.5 hours to walk one way – winding among trees which, while a lush green in spring and summer, turn brilliant shades of red, yellow and orange from late October through early November. We visit enroute to Lake Towada.

Aomori Nebuta Festival

Said to have begun by Shogun Generals to distract enemies. Held in August, a parade of massive Lantern Floats are pulled through the streets.

If you visit at another time of the year kids of all ages will love the colour of Nebuta Warasse Museum, dedicated to showcasing this festival – marvel at the paper art displayed on past floats, learn about the techniques passed through the generations, have fun hands on with the Taiko Drums.

The Rice Paddy masterpieces are certainly uniquely Japanese, farmers in the small village of Inakadate use coloured rice (during summer plantings) to create field sized artworks.

Towada Art Centre

At the permanent exhibition in Towada Art Centre (fabulous glass walkways connect the buildings), 22 works by 21 artists from 12 countries such as Yoko Ono,Choi Jeong Hwa and Australian Ron Mueck are exhibited.

Most of them are large art installations. We lunch at the Cafe, fresh and European style – the adjoining shop sells quality local art and craft.

Make sure you sample some of the Apple Products in Aomori, this is the home of the Fuji Apple, first grown here in the 1930s.

Leisurely Travellers – I can imagine returning when time is not of the essence. I suggest a driving holiday to this Region to be the easiest way to get around and offering the best flexibility. Distances between the different areas are not particularly long by Australian standards, however too far to add to a brief visit.

Aomori City – fly – 80 minutes from Haneda Airport to Aomori Airport. Train – Shinkansen from Tokyo is 3.5 hours.

Lake Towada – 3h 20 min from Tokyo to Shin-Aomori Station by JR Tohoku Shinkansen Line then 135 mins bus to Towada-ko (it stops at Oirase Stream along the way).

WHERE TO STAY IN TOHOKU

Prince Hotels & Resorts are situated in prime locations throughout the Tohoku Region – we stayed in two of their properties (41 throughout Japan).

Prince Hotel Shizukuishi – Ski Resort in Winter and Golfing/Hiking in Summer – stunning mountain location, excellent food & beverage, beautiful Onsen.

Prince Hotel Towada – Open Spring to end of Autumn – a charming lakeside location, perfect for exploring the local nature trails, lovely Onsen in-house, superb restaurant.

FINAL VERDICT:

There is much to explore in Northern Japan. As an adjunct to oft visited larger cities I would absolutely recommend time spent in beautiful,uncrowded Regional Japan. Where nature dominates and the people are welcoming.

There are not many destinations left in the world where you can say you were there first… that is why Northern Japan is a fabulous place to Travel

My trip to Northern Japan (& Tokyo) was generously hosted by Prince Hotels & Resorts. My flights were provided by ANA…nevertheless all views are my own…

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Enjoy the hospitality of the city’s downtown heart: a bustling mix of street markets, shrines and shopping arcades, where the locals work and play

The gateway to Northern Japan, Tokyo’s North is a lively collection of unpretentious residential areas with many historic areas. Meander through the old houses and artisan workshops around Yanaka or discover Ikebukuro’s busy shopping and subculture scene.

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9 reasons to visit northern Japan

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Venture beyond the tourist trails of Tokyo and Kyoto and discover bubbling onsens, crowd-free cities and wild summer festivals in Japan's north east.

While Tokyo’s collage of neon signs and Kyoto’s elegant machiya-lined streets will live up to all your expectations, you’ll be sharing them with a lot of other tourists. If you want to get away from the crowds, to see buzzing cities, forested mountains, lavish golden temples and dramatic cliffs, then head north.

The vast expanse of the Tōhoku region – the northern half of the largest Japanese island, Honshū – is left off most travellers’ itineraries. But it’s a rewarding area to visit, not only because of its natural beauty and cultural riches, but because parts of the region are still struggling to boost visitor numbers after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Though rebuilding was swift, drawing visitors back is taking longer, and spending your yen at local businesses can help shift the narrative about this truly beautiful and welcoming part of Japan.

READ MORE:   From coffee to cats, discover what to see and do in Tokyo with our full guide

1. It’s dotted with sulphurous hot springs

The mountainous belt of land snaking up the centre of Honshū is home to many hot springs, and over the centuries towns and resorts have grown up around them. Zaō is one of the biggest, with its star bath – the inventively named Dai-rotemburo, or “big outdoor bath” – able to comfortably accommodate dozens of people at once.

Nyūto Onsen is a quieter affair, made up of a several distinct hot springs and their accompanying ryokan set along a winding mountain road. Ginzan Onsen is different again, its ryokan clustered around one stretch of river, atmospherically lit with gas lamps in the evenings.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Ginzan Onsen (@ginzanonsen) on Feb 2, 2019 at 8:10pm PST

2. The summer festivals are wild

Tōhoku enjoys slightly cooler temperatures than much of Japan, making it a great choice if you’re travelling in hot, humid July and August. As an added bonus, the summer festivals here are some of the country’s best.

In the first week of August, Aomori and Hirosaki hold the Nebuta and Neputa matsuri (festivals), in which crowds of people dance jubilantly through the streets to rhythmic drumming with enormous, handmade paper lanterns.

Straight after is Akita’s Kantō Matsuri, where participants carry tall, top-heavy bamboo poles, balancing them on their head, shoulder or hip in a show of balance and athleticism. Around the same time is the Hanagasa Matsuri in Yamagata, which features taiko drumming and traditionally costumed dancers.

The last major summer festival (mid-August) is Sendai’s Tanabata Matsuri. The town is decorated with paper lanterns to celebrate the annual reunion of Vega and Altair, and it culminates in a stunning firework display over the river.

3. It has some stunning temples

Hiraizumi was once a major religious centre, its extravagantly gilded Konjiki-dō giving a glimpse of its status a thousand years ago. Unlike Kyōto or Nara, it’s surprisingly rarely visited by tourists, giving you more time and space to admire the ancient sutra scrolls, mother-of-pearl altar decorations and manicured Heian garden at Mōtsū-ji.

It’s also the perfect place to see traditional arts, with nō theatre performances held at the spring and autumn Fujiwara festivals (May and November), and the sacred Ennen-no-Mai dance performed each January, May and November.

Perhaps most rarefied of all is the picturesque poetry competition held in Mōtsū-ji in late May, where participants in Heian-era dress compose poems by the river as cups of sake are floated down to them on the water.

4. You can visit samurai strongholds

Hiraizumi is the exception to the rule that southern Honshū was the domain of the royal court and major religious foundations, while the wild north was controlled by powerful samurai families.

In Sendai, you can visit the opulent mausoleum of one-eyed warrior Date Masamune, (pictured above), one of Japan’s most famous daimyō (warlords), and a ruined castle. Alternatively, head to the town of Kakunodate, where you can see about 80 evocative, well-maintained samurai mansions. In springtime, hundreds of cherry blossom trees bloom along Kakunodate’s ancient streets and by the Hinokinai river.

5. There are buzzing cities with barely any tourists

Sendai’s appeal doesn’t only lie in its warrior past. Today it’s the region’s largest city, and it has a bustling downtown area with some excellent food (try the Ichiban-chō area).

Morioka, further north, is a small and relaxed city in a plateau between mountains. Its main park contains some castle ruins, and it’s a great city to visit if you’d like to buy some artisan goods.

READ MORE: The best weekend trips from Tokyo

Furthest north of all is Aomori, which is a friendly and down-to-earth port city. Visit for its delicious fresh fish, lively waterfront and several excellent museums.

6. The landscapes are beautiful

From verdant Tōno Valley (ideal for cycling) to dramatic Geibikei and Genbikei gorges and the holy peaks of Dewa-sanzan, Tōhoku is home to some stunning landscapes. A homestay or farmstay is a great way to explore the countryside in more depth ( WWOOF Japan  is usually a good way to find one).

The coast, of course, brings even more glorious vistas. Matsushima’s island-studded bay is considered one of Japan’s three best views, while Oshika Hantō’s rugged coastline features some wonderfully remote hiking. In the far north, only 25 miles from Hokkaido, the Shimokita Hantō is home to the eerie landscapes of Mount Osore, where the souls of the dead are said to wander, and the intriguing rock formations of Hotokegaura.

7. There’s more delicious food than you could try in one trip

In Morioka, you can try the wanko soba challenge – eat as many small, innocent-looking bowls of soba noodles as possible before you finally tap out. In Matsushima, you’ll want to slurp down a few of their famed oysters, while in Aomori the local favourite is hotate kai yaki, or scallops with miso. If you like the idea of gyū-tan – calf’s tongue – Sendai is the place for you, or for a hearty kiritanpo, a stew made with chicken, vegetables and grilled mochi, make a beeline for Akita.

As with all of Japan, food is viewed with reverence in Tōhoku. Each region has its own speciality, from hearty stews to dainty confections, and your trip will only be improved by eating your way through all of them.

8. The winter scenery and snow festivals are unparalleled

In the deep north of Japan, winter can be harsh but beautiful. In Zaō Quasi National Park, the season creates a jaw-dropping sight: juhyō, or snow monsters. Under a very specific set of conditions, the trees here are covered in layers of snow and ice, forming dramatic shapes that can look like stooped figures, rearing monsters or frozen waves depending on your view.

By February, coming out of the coldest month of the year, the calendar starts to fill up with festivals. In Yokote, the Kamakura Matsuri sees igloos built around town, tiny ones glittering with candles by the river; the same night, in Rokugō, two groups of men charge at each other with sharp bamboo poles in the Takeuchi Matsuri (the poles are set on fire for the third round, to make it extra dangerous). In Iwate, half-naked men compete for good luck at the Somin-sai Matsuri, while in Kaminoyama townspeople dress up in straw costumes and make bird noises for the Kasedori Matsuri, a light-hearted way to invite good fortune for the coming year.

9. You can help the ongoing recovery effort

For all its attractions, Tōhoku is still recovering from the 2011 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster. Tens of thousands of people are still yet to be permanently rehoused, and though the affected area was only a small part of the prefecture, some areas like Fukushima are still struggling to increase tourism.

But there are signs of hope, and by visiting Tōhoku you can have a positive impact on the recovery effort. The Sanriku Recovery National Park is a great place to go if you’d like to find out more, as this diverse stretch of coastline – encompassing craggy coves, white-sand beaches and working fishing villages – was established to help people learn about the bounty of nature, but also its dangers. You can find out about disaster prevention efforts, take part in ecotourism initiatives, and walk the trails of this beautiful stretch of coastline.

Getting there

Air France offers flights to Tokyo via Paris Charles de Gaulle from nine departure points across the UK, connecting to three direct flights between Paris and Tokyo daily. Fares from London Heathrow start from £773 economy return including taxes and charges. See  airfrance.co.uk  or phone 0207 660 0337.

Map of key attractions in northern Japan

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Northern Tokyo

Kita and around.

Northern Tokyo includes Kita, Itabashi, Toshima, Bunkyo, Taito, Arakawa and Adachi districts. Traditionally less frequented by tourists, this broad area welcomes residential boroughs as well as universities.

The area is less known by visitors of Tokyo, maybe because it is more discreet than its other touristic zones.

All around the big area of Kita, very residential, few attractions appeal to travelers. However, it offers another angle of Tokyo, including the International French High School.

Most of the visits described below offer you to explore a different Tokyo, quiet and far from the common bombastic image the capital conveys all around the world.

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• From April 14 to 15 -- Sanno Matsuri (the Spring Takayama Festival)
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• The North in Two Weeks

The North in Two Weeks in Japan

Tohoku and Hokkaido are usually ignored by travelers. Though it's true that the country's most significant historic treasures lie in the southern regions, Northern Japan, where the emphasis is on natural wonders and hot-spring spas, offers a more relaxed vacation for those who have already seen the country's must-sees.

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo

Spend the night in Tokyo; if you wish to spend a few days in the capital sightseeing, refer to the itineraries earlier.

Days 2 & 3: Akan National Park

Fly from Tokyo's Haneda Airport 1 1/2 hours to Kushiro Airport, where you should stop by the small tourist office for a pamphlet on tours of Kushiro Marshland National Park; you may be able to join one that day. Otherwise, take the bus (1 hr. and 20 min.) to Akanko Onsen. Take a boat cruise of Lake Akan, famous for its marimo, a spongelike ball of duckweed, and tour the marimo museum. Visit Ainu Kotan Village with its shops and traditional Ainu dancing. Outdoor pursuits include hiking, canoeing, and fishing (including ice fishing in winter).

Days 4 & 5: Sapporo

Board an early morning sightseeing bus for a tour of Akan National Park and its natural wonders, and then board a train Bihoro Station for the 3-hour ride to Sapporo. Capital of Hokkaido Prefecture and the island's largest city, Sapporo is an easygoing city that's a snap to navigate. Highlights include Nopporo Forest Park, where you can visit the Historical Museum of Hokkaido and see vintage homes and buildings at the Historical Village of Hokkaido. Be sure to dine at the Sapporo Bier Garten on the grounds of the old Sapporo brewery.

Day 6: Noboribetsu Spa

En route to Noboribetsu, stop off at the Poroto Kotan and Ainu Museum in Shiraoi with its impressive collection of indigenous Ainu artifacts. In Noboribetsu Onsen, known for its curative hot springs, hike through Hell Valley for a view of the bubbling hot water that has made Noboribetsu famous, and then experience its magic at the Dai-ichi Takimotokan hot-spring baths.

Day 7: Hakodate Port Town

Take the train 2 hours to Hakodate. Wander the waterfront warehouse district and historic Motomachi, a picturesque neighborhood of steep slopes and turn-of-the-20th-century clapboard homes and other buildings, relics of when Hakodate opened as one of Japan's first international ports following 2 centuries of isolation. In the evening, take a cable car to the top of Mount Hakodate, renowned for its night view of Hakodate.

Days 8 & 9: Lake Towada

Visit Hakodate's morning market (famous for its hairy crabs) and then board a train for the 2-hour ride to Aomori Station, where you'll transfer for the 3-hour bus ride to Lake Towada. Take a boat cruise of the lake and visit Towada Jinja Shrine, but the highlight of a stay here is a hike along the Oirase Stream, a coursing river shaded by trees and marked by huge boulders.

Days 10 & 11: Back in Time at Nyuto Onsen

There's a sightseeing bus that departs Lake Towada every morning mid-April through October, arriving at Tazawako Station 7 hours later, where you then board a local bus for Nyuto Onsen, a secluded valley of hot springs and rustic inns. It's a good base from which to explore the many wonders of the Towada-Hachimantai National Park, including skiing in winter and hiking, biking, and swimming in summer. For the ultimate ryokan experience, spend the night in Tsuru-no-yu Onsen, a rustic and remote Japanese inn with outdoor baths.

Day 12: Kakunodate Castle Town

Only one stop away from Tazawako Station on the Shinkansen is Kakunodate, a small and relatively unspoiled castle town famous for its samurai district and cherry trees. Be sure to see the Aoyagi Samurai Manor, a compound of traditional buildings packed with Edo Period memorabilia. Spend the night here or return to Nyuto Onsen.

Day 13: Matsushima

Take the Shinkansen to Sendai (about 1 1/2 hr.) and then board a sightseeing boat for a 50-minute trip to Matsushima, famous for its scenic coastline of pine-studded islets. Visit the venerable Zuiganji Temple, northern Japan's most famous Zen temple; Entsuin Temple, with its nice gardens and restaurant serving Buddhist vegetarian cuisine; and a museum or two.

Day 14: Back to Tokyo

Return to Sendai and take the Shinkansen south to Tokyo.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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North of Tokyo, Exploring the Sacred and Scenic

By Barbara Ireland

• Feb. 6, 2014

To the right of the path, a fast-rushing river, blue and white, sped through a secluded gorge, breaking into rapids over dark rocks and tumbling over the occasional waterfall. To the left, a long line of timeworn Buddhist statues sat with their backs to a steep wooded bank, inviting passers-by to share their contemplation.

Someone had been here. Many of the statues were dressed in red knitted hats and cloth bibs, and some held little piles of one-yen coins, left as offerings, in their moss-covered laps (at last! a use for this smallest of small change). But there was no sound other than the river, and no one in sight.

This serene glen, Kanmangafuchi, which in English goes by the forbidding name of the Kanman Abyss, is in Nikko, the temple town of the great shoguns. Tour buses roll up to Nikko’s dazzling shrines — Japan’s most lavish and elaborate — and re-enactors stage grand annual processions on its 400-year-old avenues. But Kanmangafuchi, a secondary attraction that doesn’t make it onto most day trippers’ agendas, is hidden and magical, a key to understanding why the shoguns built their monuments in this place and why Buddhist monks had put down roots hundreds of years earlier. Here, by the Daiya River, it was easy to feel the magnetism of the steep verdant hills, waterfalls, hot springs and volcanic mountains. Throw in a taste for the mystical, and Nikko would be a perfect place to seek enlightenment — or to enshrine yourself as a god.

An easy two and a half hours north of Tokyo by train, Nikko is a small mountain town at the edges of both a cultural Unesco World Heritage site — the 126-acre Tokugawa shrine complex — and a 443-square-mile natural reserve, Nikko National Park. The combination pulls in Japanese tourists by the millions. Yet relatively few Western travelers seem to be among the crowds, even though the list of those who have made the trip stretches back to Ulysses S. Grant, who arrived in 1879. Those who do come here often sign up for day trips organized by Tokyo-based tour companies, giving them enough time to see some high points of the intricate shrine art and architecture and not much else.

My first trip to Nikko, 20 years ago, was in winter, when the clear mountain air was crisp and new snow dusted the emerald branches of the 100-foot-tall cedar trees. Against that backdrop, the brilliant red lacquer facade of Rinnoji, the central Buddhist temple, made an unforgettable picture — almost as vivid in memory as the shocking chill of an unheated wooden floor on feet covered in thin socks (since, of course, shoes must be removed before going in to bow before the 28-foot-gilded statues of Buddha and Kannon).

On a recent fall visit, I walked uphill toward the shrines on ancient stone steps, full of anticipation, and was hit by a jolt of surprise. At the top, I found myself looking not at the three-story-high Rinnoji temple, but at a full-scale painting of it on a giant white plastic wrapper. The temple was inside, undergoing restoration in a project that began in 2007 and will move from structure to structure around the treasures of Nikko until 2021.

The restoration is not shutting down Nikko, I soon learned, or even this one temple. People were going up the still-exposed front steps and disappearing behind the wrapper, so I followed. Inside, one of the three tall statues of gods was missing, but the thousand-armed Senju-Kannon and the double-headed Bato-Kannon (a horse’s head is atop its human one) were there and as inscrutable as ever. For the full effect, it’s essential to walk as close to them as possible and look up. Their astonishingly lifelike eyes will look directly down into yours, not exactly menacing and not really friendly either, prompting thoughts about exactly what their intentions might be for your future.

Nikko’s shrines and temples, as they now appear, date to the 1600s, when the Tokugawa shogun Ieyasu decided Nikko was the right spot for his mausoleum, signifying his ascension after death to godly status (as planned, he was posthumously named a Buddhist deity). However inflated his self-esteem, Ieyasu was no run-of-the-mill warlord. Defeating rivals in battle, he unified Japan under his rule in 1600, and the country never fractured again. He also moved the capital from Kyoto, leaving the powerless emperor behind, to the coastal town that he called Edo and that is now Tokyo, setting up a court there that quickly transformed the town from a tiny fishing village into a metropolis. Later in that same century, another Tokugawa shogun, Ieyasu’s grandson Iemitsu, assembled the country’s greatest artisans and finest materials, commanded an outpouring of cash from the cowed nobility and did more building at Nikko.

The two Tokugawas left behind enough artistry to occupy an admirer for days, and I found most of it on view with little intrusion from the restoration.

There’s a large Shinto shrine to the god of nearby Mount Nantai (shoes off, please, to go inside); ornate gates and big, scary statues guarding flights of steps up to the mausoleums of both grandfather and grandson; a walkway flanked by 100 large stone lanterns; a five-story pagoda; even a “sacred stable.” Anyone looking for the familiar spare Japanese aesthetic will be disappointed. Elaborate, Chinese-influenced decoration is everywhere: gilding, metal work and, especially, intricate wood carving. It was the style of the time, a sort of Japanese Baroque, and Nikko is its highest expression.

Isabella Bird, the Victorian travel writer whose books kept her English audience rapt, wrote in “Unbeaten Tracks in Japan”: “The wood-carving needs weeks of earnest work for the mastery of its ideas and details.” I didn’t want to stay that long, but I understood her reaction. The carving is in 3-D: brightly painted wooden friezes of flowers and plants; cranes, peacocks, dragons, elephants; and the Three Wise Monkeys (See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil), a charming and famous piece that everyone stopped to gawk at. A group of 9- or 10-year-old schoolchildren with bright yellow hats (billed caps for the boys and small rain hats for the girls) were especially appreciative but seemed to have even more fun running up and down the moss-edged steps where their handlers soon led them.

Nikko is a great place for exercise. On this trip I walked all day for two days, exploring museums, gardens and a downtown with souvenir shops and a public hot-spring bathhouse. (Buses are available for those who want to walk less.) Like everyone else, I took pictures of the crescent-shaped red Sacred Bridge over the Daiya River that is Nikko’s signature image.

I wandered in the tatami maze of the sprawling 100-room Japanese-style Imperial Villa, now a museum, where Akihito, Japan’s current emperor, was sent for safety by his father, Hirohito, during World War II. You can see the entrance to a bomb shelter in the gorgeous garden. (It wasn’t needed. Nikko and its treasures were never bombed.) The villa, built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is near the Kanman Abyss, and the emperor Taisho, Akihito’s grandfather, wrote a stylized poem about walking there and getting his sleeves wet from the rapids’ spray. The poem is inscribed on a stone monument at the gorge, one of several such literary monuments in Nikko.

Outside town is another experience, accessible by bus. A corkscrew of a road leads up to the alpine Lake Chuzenji and the high Kegon waterfall; along the way, monkeys inured to the slow-moving traffic sit in trees or run along the road, hoping to score a handout. And then there are the hot springs. In Japan, Nikko is almost as renowned for its nearby hot-springs resorts as for its shrine.

I stayed close to the shrine and retired at night to the Kanaya Hotel, an old European-style place where expats and diplomats took holidays from steamy Tokyo in the days before air-conditioning. The list of guests includes Eleanor Roosevelt, Indira Gandhi and Frank Lloyd Wright. When Ms. Bird stayed there in 1878, the building was a small guesthouse and the host was the original Mr. Kanaya. “I almost wish that the rooms were a little less exquisite,” Bird wrote, “for I am in constant dread of spilling the ink, indenting the mats, or tearing the paper windows.”

Today’s incarnation falls short of the “Japanese idyll” she described, but it is lovely, historical and beautifully situated on a slope almost directly above the Sacred Bridge. I found the Kanaya relentlessly European, but with a Japanese twist. The high-ceilinged corridors and my huge room, with an antique desk and view of a garden and a mountain peak, made me think of the fine old inns that still survive in the American Northeast. But here there were yukatas, the cotton kimonos for lounging that are common in Japan, laid out for the guests. Service was delicate and perfect, in the best Japanese style.

Dinner at the restaurant was a white-tablecloth and French-wine affair with steak on the menu and a “Downton Abbey”-worthy array of silverware at each place setting. Although the staff and all the other diners were Asian, there wasn’t a chopstick in sight. Here, I thought, if anywhere in rural Japan, I might have a chance of getting a cup of decaf coffee after dinner. But the waitress, an older woman in a neat black dress who had up to this time anticipated my every desire, told me apologetically that there was none, and when I refused tea as a substitute, seemed genuinely stricken.

I assured her that I could make do with water. But in a few minutes she reappeared, looking hopeful, with an offer: Could I take instant? I could. It arrived grandly — shining crystals in a stemware dessert glass — and proved to be the best instant coffee I had ever tasted. I smiled, she smiled, and all was well.

In Tokyo, get advice on touring the Nikko area from English speakers at the Tourist Information Center (TIC) in the Shin Tokyo Building in Marunouchi, 81-3-3201-3331; jnto.go.jp .

The privately owned Tobu train (81-3-3841-2871; www.tobu.co.jp/foreign ), the easiest way to Nikko, leaves from the Tobu Asakusa Station, across the street from Tokyo’s Asakusa municipal transit station. In Nikko, the Sacred Bridge and other tourist sites are within walking distance of the Tobu station; a bus makes regular circuits.

The Two-Day Nikko Pass, available at the Tobu Station for 2,600 yen (about $26), covers round-trip train fare and buses in Nikko. Admission to the main Nikko temple and shrine is 2,200 yen. Small fees, 100 to 500 yen, are charged to enter some ancillary areas and museums. The shrine and temple complex is open daily year-round.

Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa (81-2-8853-6767; japan-guide.com/e/e3808.html ) and its garden are open daily year-round except on Tuesdays and holidays. Admission is 500 yen.

To reach the Kanman Abyss from the Imperial Villa, exit from the garden to the side street, walk downhill and turn left. Take the first right onto a tiny street, turn right at the end and walk to the road bridge across the Daiya River. Cross it, turn right and follow the street along the river, heading upstream, through a small neighborhood. The trailhead is off a parking lot at the end.

The Nikko Kanaya Hotel (81-2-8854-0001; kanayahotel.co.jp ) is reached from the Tobu station by an uphill driveway off Nikko’s main street spine just before the Sacred Bridge. Prices vary by season; doubles from 17,325 yen.

Northern Honshū (Tōhoku)

Stretching out above Tokyo is the fabled Tōhoku (東北; Northeast) – starring Miyagi, Yamagata, Iwate, Fukushima, Akita and Aomori Prefectures – where ice monsters and river imps inhabit the imagination (but hopefully not the onsen). Hugging the west coast is Niigata Prefecture, a skiing and hiking wonderland that also includes the rugged and remote island of Sado-ga-shima.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Osorezan-bodaiji

Aomori Prefecture

This holy shrine at Osore-zan's summit is a moving, mesmerisingly atmospheric and beautiful place honouring Jizō Bosatsu, protector of children and a much…

The 2446 stone steps through ancient cedars to Haguro-san's summit (419m) have been smoothed by centuries of pilgrims. The climb, taking up to two hours,…

Aomori Museum of Art

Looking like a modernist sculpture, the geometric white facade of the Aomori Museum of Art was designed to blend in with the landscape when blanketed with…

Accessible from July to September, Gas-san (1984m) is the highest of Dewa Sanzan's sacred mountains. From Hachigōme (八合目; eighth station) the route passes…

Accessible from May to October, Yudono-san (1504m) is the spiritual culmination of the Dewa Sanzan trek. Coming from Gas-san it's a short walk from the…

Risshaku-ji

The 'Temple of Standing Stones', more commonly known as Yamadera, rests atop a rock-hewn staircase weathered over the centuries by unrelenting elements…

Iwate Prefecture

Established in AD 850 by the priest Ennin, the Chūson-ji complex was expanded by the Ōshu Fujiwara family in the 12th century. A total of 300 buildings…

RIAS Ark Museum of Art

High in the hills above Kesennuma, this local art museum houses the largest collection of photographs and artefacts in existence relating to the 2011…

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The North travel guide

The regions of Japan to the northeast of Tokyo are more sparsely inhabited and less often visited by tourists, either foreign or Japanese. Yet northern Honshu – which is more commonly known as ‘Tohoku’ – and the northernmost island of Hokkaido offer the advantage of unspoiled countryside and friendly down-to-earth villagers still imbued with something of a frontier spirit. Much of the Pacific coast of Tohuku was devastated in the 2011 tsunami and will take years to recover.

Their folkcrafts are authentic and much less commercialised than in most other parts of Japan. And their festivals, in an area without the usual urban entertainment, are frequent, colourful and more spontaneous than in the more densely populated regions of the country. No picture of Japanese life is complete without a short visit to these northern territories.

Places to visit in the north of Japan

Dewa san-zan.

Amid the rustic, traditional prefecture of Yamagata, the Dewa San-zan (Three Mountains of Dewa) are Yamagata’s three holy mountains, where ascetic mountain priests called yamabushi still perform sacred rituals. Join the other pilgrims and walk the 2,446 steps to the summit of Haguro-san . Afterwards, travel down the Mogami-gawa on a flat-bottomed boat while the boatman sings of the area’s legends. Towards the inland highlands is Tendo , an onsen town famous for its craftsmen who make shogi chess pieces.

This impressive temple dates from the early 12th century. Chusonji, in the town of Hiraizumi, was erected by the Fujiwara family when their power behind the imperial throne in Kyoto was waning. Two of the temple’s structures have survived the countless wars of the Fujiwara. The Konjikido (Golden Hall) is a fabulously opulent mausoleum that Kiyohira Fujiwara built for himself in 1124.

Everything except the uppermost roof covering is coated in pure gold. This priceless treasure, now protec­ted by glass inside­ a fireproof concrete Kamakura-style hall, is believed to be what Columbus was after in his search for the country he called Chipangu. The Kyozo is even older (1108) and used to house the temple’s Buddhist scriptures (sutras), which are now kept in the modern treasure house.

Also in Hiraizumi is Japan’s most intact Heian period garden, Motsu-ji temple’s Jodo-teien. Little remains­ of the temple, founded by the Fujiwara in 850, but its paradise garden, lake, miniature islands and soft lawn are well preserved. Flowers bloom throughout the year; some 30,000 irises every June make an impressive sight.

In southwestern Hokkaido, Sapporo is the island’s capital and its largest city with 1.7 million people. It is an immensely liveable city, anchored by Odori-koen (Odori Park), running east and west through the centre and one of Japan’s liveliest, most charming boulevards. In the first week of February, this broad avenue is the venue for Sapporo’s world-famous Snow Festival . Snow statues and ice sculptures made by corporate, professional and amateur teams are decidedly complex and often quite large. In summer, beer gardens spring up on the grassy areas and people linger outdoors long into the night.

Two blocks south of Odori-koen is Tanuki-koji , a lively strip of restaurants and shops. A couple of blocks furthe south is Susukino , the nightlife district.

A short disance west of Sapporo is Otaru , once a fishing and trading centre and where many of the buildings are an eclectic blend of Western and 19th-century Japanese influences. Otaru is the gateway to the Shakotan-hanto , a peninsular microcosm of Hokkaido with its rugged coastlines, abundant campsites, ski areas, boating and fishing in the Sea of Japan, and glorious sunsets from the capes (misaki) of Shakotan and Kamui. One of the island’s most rewarding attractions is the Historical Village of Hokkaido , an open-air museum set in parkland, displaying over 60 historical buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The village is a fascinating re-creation of life in the early pioneering years of the island.

Daisetsuzan National Park

The largest national park in Japan, Daisetsuzan is situated right in the centre of Hokkaido. This is a landscape of volcanic peaks and steep highlands, magnificent gorges, carpets of alpine wildflowers, and sightings of the park’s rich wildlife, including deer, fox, bears and exotic birds. In the park, there are several good youth hostels and campsites. The climate is notably cool, verging on sub-arctic at higher elevations.

Start at Sounkyo , a tourist village near the eponymous gorges, with chiselled walls of volcanic rock punctuated by feathery waterfalls and more than 100 metres (300 ft) high. From Sounkyo, one of the park’s two cable cars ends near the peak of Kuro, a jumping-off point for good hiking. The goal is Hokkaido’s highest peak, Asahi-dake , 2,290 metres (7,500 ft) high. Along the way, are vast tracts of forest, timberline barrens, small lakes and side trails, volcanic vents, flower-covered hillsides, patches of year-round snow – and the inevitable mosquitos. Among the best festivals in Hokkaido are Sounkyo’s Kyokoku Himatsuri, the Ainu Fire Festival in late June, and Sounkyo’s Ice Festival in winter.

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Northern Tokyo (Ueno, Asakusa, Ikebukuro)

Top spots in tokyo: northern tokyo.

Tokyo National Museum ••

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Asakusa •

Sensoji Temple •

Edo-Tokyo Museum •

Rikugien •

Ueno Park •

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7 Places to Visit Near Tokyo

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Tokyo is an amazing travel destination! And there are so many incredible places to visit near Tokyo.

That’s why for this post, I’m not here to tell you about Tokyo. I’ve got plenty of Tokyo blog posts that already do that (check out my Things to Do in Tokyo travel guide).

Instead, I’m here to talk about some of the cool places that are just a day trip away from the Japanese capital.

You may be planning on getting a Japan Rail Pass , which is a great idea (and something you need to get before your trip, as they ship it to you). This means you can be admiring the Tokyo city view from the Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Skytree one day, and be zooming out of Tokyo Station on a shinkansen (the bullet train) the next—free of charge!

Pssst, heading to Tokyo? Don’t miss these travel guides to help you plan your trip!

What to Do in Tokyo:Tokyo Travel Guide Things You Need to Put on Your Tokyo Itinerary 7 Places to Visit Near Tokyo Where to Stay in Tokyo

There are tons of places to choose from, but I’ve narrowed it down to seven of my favorite places to visit near Tokyo to help you make the most of your time in Japan.

Places to visit near Tokyo

You may have heard of the Edo Period (1603-1868), but you probably haven’t heard of the Kamakura Period (1185-1333), right? That’s when the capital of Japan was based in this coastal city.

Just south of the modern-day capital, the seaside town is an hour’s train travel from Tokyo Station.

And it feels so different!

There are lots of boutique (and heritage) stores on its shopping streets, and a famous beach called Yuigahama, but the star of the show is the 42-foot-tall bronze Great Buddha statue. There are also hiking courses and an 8th-century Buddhist temple complex, Hasedera, to wander around, complete with an observation deck.

The town of Hakone is a classic Japanese resort: there are mountains, lakes, and, of course, onsen —traditional Japanese hot springs.

Part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, one of the most famous things about Hakone is being able to get an amazing view of Mount Fuji (on a clear day, anyway).

It’s just an hour away from Tokyo Station by train, and the change in scenery and vibe, couldn’t be more different! It’s like a breath of fresh air from the frenetic streets of the capital.

Don’t forget to snap a selfie against the gorgeous backdrop of the red torii gate on the shores of Lake Ashi at Hakone Shrine!

Tokyo Disney Resort

Away from the famous fish markets and the Imperial Palace of Tokyo, there’s Tokyo Disneyland.

Ok, ok, so it might say “Tokyo,” but did you know this world-famous amusement park is actually in the neighboring prefecture of Chiba?

All it takes is a half-hour train ride from the city’s central station and you’ll be at Tokyo Disney—with seven themed lands to explore around 115 acres on Tokyo Bay.

Opened in 1983, this is actually the first Disneyland to open outside of the U.S. And if you’ve come to Tokyo for fun and excitement, I definitely recommend you visit this literal world of wonder.

Disney fans should not skimp out!

Nikko is one of the best trips you could take from Tokyo, like, ever.

It’s a peaceful place known for possibly the most elaborate Shinto shrine in Japan—Toshogu.

Even before that landmark was built in the early 1600s, Nikko has been a center for Buddhist and Shinto worship for hundreds of years.

Temples and shrines not your thing?

Then let me tell you that Nikko is also home to Nikko National Park. In Japan, that means hiking and hot springs galore.

It’s a very popular place in fall—take one day out of the city and the fall colors here will be enough for any leaf peeper. There are literally thousands of photo ops here, it’s that dreamy.

Leave Tokyo behind as you take the train just 35 minutes from Shinjuku Station all the way to the neighboring city of Yokohama.

This port city has a different feel to the capital. It’s so much more open and chilled out, even though it’s the second biggest city in Japan!

In the Motomachi area, specifically Yamate, you will find a bit of a hidden gem in the form of lots of heritage buildings in a former “foreigners-only” area from the early days of Japan opening up to the world in the early 20th century. It’s cool!

Elsewhere, the futuristic Minato Mirai area is all about giant, pristine malls straight out of your dreams, and includes art museums and a super high Ferris wheel.

Going to Atami means you’ll definitely be getting off the regular tourist trail.

Atami is a coastal city on the Izu Peninsula, and less than an hour away by shinkansen, so it’s an easy day trip from Tokyo.

Set on the slopes of steep mountains on one side, with the sea (and beaches!) on the other, Atami is a resort town that’s known for its hot springs and fancy ryokan (Japanese style guesthouses).

Head to the MOA Museum of Art for some cool design-y culture, or just luxuriate in an onsen with sea views. Your choice!

Kusatsu Onsen

Another onsen resort that’s in Tokyo’s backyard, Kusatsu Onsen is all about its health benefits. The hot spring waters here are said to cure every illness (except lovesickness, apparently).

It takes a while to reach (just under three hours), but trust me; it’s definitely worth it. It’s not every day you get to see a Japanese hot spring resort!

Not only can you take a dip in one of the many public onsens here, but there’s also a ski resort for all you ski enthusiasts out there.

Once you’ve made the day trip to Kusatsu Onsen, your next adventure to Japan may just have to involve a stay there, I think!

It was hard to narrow down all the awesome Tokyo day trips you can do while you’re there. But I chose to mix it up a bit by giving you some really unique tourist attractions and places to visit near Tokyo to think about.

There are ancient cities, beautiful shrines, serene nature, and in true Japanese style, a ton of hot springs to indulge in!

If you find yourself in any of these amazing spots—tell me about it! I’m @wtfab on Insta, hit me up!

Planning a trip to Tokyo? Be sure to check out all my Tokyo travel guides :

What to Do in Tokyo: Tokyo Travel Guide Best Places to View Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo Best Time to Visit Tokyo 11 Things You Need to Put on Your Tokyo Itinerary 7 Places to Visit Near Tokyo Things to do in Tokyo with Kids Tokyo Airbnbs Where to Stay in Tokyo Park Hyatt, Tokyo

Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Okinawa are some of the most popular places in Japan for first-timers to visit.

Cherry blossom season in the spring is a very popular time to visit Japan. The fall is also beautiful with all of the fall foliage and nice weather. Summers can be very hot, and winters are very cold.

Japan can be expensive and has a lot of fancy hotels and restaurants, but you can also do Japan on the cheap by staying in hostels and eating at inexpensive places.

Kyoto, Hakone, and Nikko are popular places to visit outside of Tokyo.

Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab , a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.

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Beyond Tokyo: 7 Lesser-Visited Places to Visit in Japan

From ancient cliffside temples to sake breweries by the sea, consider these stops on your next trip to japan..

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The Toshogu Shrine in Nikko features a carving of three wise monkeys, the original representation of “hear no evil, speak no evil, see no evil.”

Photo by Luciano Mortula-LGM/Shutterstock

On my first visit to Japan eight years ago, I was instantly drawn to the electric energy of Tokyo. The capital is a microcosm of the country itself, which offers a thrilling combination of technological innovation, pop culture trends, meticulous culinary traditions, and varied landscapes that come to life during all four seasons. I made a much anticipated return to Japan in spring 2023, ready to revisit the places that enamored me—and experience new parts of the country.

In Tokyo, I checked into my favorite hotel in the city: Prince Gallery Kioicho . Its grandiose floor-to-ceiling lobby view of the night sky lit up with glowing buildings was a prelude to the energy 36 floors below. A few days later, I took a train two hours north to Nikko for the first time, to visit its shrine-filled streets and hiking paths, then moved on to the southernmost part of Japan in search of Oita’s best onsen . If you’re looking to move beyond the popular tourist destinations and discover places to visit in Japan beyond Tokyo, here are seven places to consider on your next trip.

The bar at The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko offers a variety of shochu and over one hundred Japanese whiskeys for guests to enjoy.

Photo by Ismail Salahuddin

Nikko is a mountainside retreat where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in enchanting scenery: waterfalls, lakes, fields of azaleas blooming in the spring, and forests of maple and linden trees that explode in oranges and reds in the autumn. It’s an ideal place for hiking, skiing, boating, or just finding peace within nature all year round. It’s also home to some of Japan’s most magnificent shrines and temples, many of them UNESCO World Heritage sites. Must-sees include the intricate carvings of sleeping cats and elephants at Toshogu Shrine and the glowing lanterns of Futarasan-jinja Shrine.

Where to stay

Book now: Ritz Carlton, Nikko

Guests of Ritz Carlton, Nikko can take part in a morning meditation led by monks, a sundown speedboat cruise on neighboring Lake Chuzenji, and a stargazing experience that offers views of the Milky Way and moon craters. The property’s 94 rooms and suites property are a stunning display of Japanese minimalism and luxury. Famed ramen institution Afuri has partnered with the hotel bar to offer a dinner and cocktail experience— illuminated by a wall of more than 1,000 Japanese whiskies. Check into the Lake Chuzenji View Suite, which offers over 1,000 square feet of soft wood tones and the sleek serenity of a private balcony and soaking tub overlooking the lake. After a long day of exploration, its on-site onsen is a meditative retreat to soak among forested mountains.

Kobe is heaven for sake fans.

Photo by Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Kobe may be well-known around the world for its popular cut of steak, but the cosmopolitan city is a great weekend getaway for exploring its other impressive culinary offerings—and its sake breweries. Located 20 minutes from Osaka via train, the city includes lively neighborhoods that are easy to navigate by foot or a sightseeing bus that loops around major sites like Merikan park and the waterfront shopping district, Harborland.

When you’ve worked up an appetite, the Sannomiya district provides a number of options, including traditional Japanese izakayas (pubs) like Kaisentonya Sannomiya Seriichi, which serves up fresh seafood including sea urchin and oysters. For a wagyu kobe fix at an affordable price, try Steakland Kobe near Sannomiya station. The Nada district of Kobe is a major producer of sake; one of the most famous and oldest breweries to visit is Hakutsuru . Take a guided tour, visit the on-site museum, and enjoy the tasting room’s popular sake jelly dessert.

Book now: La Suite Kobe

After a day full of tasting, check into La Suite Kobe —a waterfront hotel located in the city center that includes two restaurants, a cocktail lounge, and outdoor pools.

The Akaike Jigoku “hell” has a fiery red color in contrast to the benign blue of the others.

Wellness takes center stage in this haven of bubbling natural geothermal waters visibly spouting from streets and hillsides at just about every turn. Located in the southernmost island of Japan, Kyushu, Beppu is the country’s largest onsen region . There are more than 3,000 hot spring vents here; most are the result of volcanic eruptions. Many of the springs are only for viewing due to their extreme temperatures, including the “7 Hells of Beppu” in the Kannawa district. Some date back some 1,200 years, including the steamy, icy blue waters of Umi Jigoku.

Book now: ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa

For an overnight stay that offers a chance to take a soak, ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa provides guests cliffside onsens with panoramic views of the city and bay in the distance. Particularly during sunset, when the steam rises and the sky flashes vivid colors of orange and fuschia, this location is a moment of zen worth the trip to Beppu alone.

Fukuoka has all of the energy—but less of the tourists—of Tokyo.

Photo by cowardlion/Shutterstock

Located on Kyushu’s northern shore, Fukuoka offers a thrilling energy similar to Tokyo that many international tourists overlook. Ramen lovers: Prepare to activate the slurp, because Fukuoka is the birthplace of tonkotsu, and there’s no shortage of places to try a bowl. Fukuoka’s ramen is distinct thanks to its Hakata style: ultra thin noodles served in a creamy pork bone–based broth. A popular spot for the region’s famed soup is Hakata Issou , but any of the always packed food stalls (called yatai ) around the city can satiate a craving. Beyond ramen, Fukuoka offers a lively nightlife and shopping—including an entertainment center called Canal City that has over 250 shops, two hotels, and even a ramen stadium that houses eight noodle-themed restaurants. For a break from its more cosmopolitan side, visit Fukuoka’s Momochi Seaside Park, which features three man-made, swim-friendly beaches.

Book now: Miyako Hotel Hakata

After a full day, check into Miyako Hotel Hakata , a contemporary 208-room retreat with a poolside bar and glass exterior draped in greenery and waterfalls.

Yokohama, with almost 4 million residents, is the second biggest city in Japan by population.

Photo by RYO Alexandre/Shutterstock

The coastal city of Yokohama is an easy day trip and can be reached from Tokyo in about an hour via train. Visitors can get lost in the beauty of lotus flowers and cherry blossoms at Sankeien Gardens, which covers 175,000 square meters of landscape and offers glimpses of sloping sea cliffs on the nearby coastline.

For a panoramic view of the gardens, walk up the stairs to reach the three-tiered Tomyoji Temple Pagoda. It’s a memorable sight, especially during the spring sakura season, when cherry blossoms blanket the grounds. Yokohama is also home to Japan’s largest Chinatown, with over 600 shops that sell curry and pan-fried soup dumplings besdie colorful sundries along its red lantern–lined streets. The 160-year-old market is a direct result of Yokohama’s history as a port of international trade.

Book now: The Kahala Hotel & Resort Yokohama

For overnight stays, the Kahala Hotel & Resort Yokohama —a member of Leading Hotels of the World , offers waterfront views and spacious luxury rooms. The property is only minutes away from the city’s popular Chinatown.

Kanazawa Castle dates back to 1580. The original buildings are long gone, but a faithful reproduction is set among gardens and immaculate landscaping.

Photo by TK Kurikawa/Shutterstock

Nicknamed “Little Kyoto” because of its traditional charm, Kanazawa has a fraction of the tourists compared to its popular southern neighbor. Geisha and samurai culture still flourish in this coastal city, particularly in the Nagamachi and Nishi Chaya Gai districts.

On the food front, Omicho market is home to some of the freshest seafood in the region because of its proximity to the Sea of Japan. Here, visitors can explore over 170 shops and try delicacies like sea urchin or sweet shrimp korokke (fried croquette). Kanazawa’s other main attraction, Kenroku-en garden, often tops the list of Japan’s most beautiful gardens. It features an abundance of lakes and waterfalls, a flower viewing bridge that reveals cherry trees and azaleas, streams, a teahouse, and over 180 plant species in full bloom during spring and fall.

Book now: Tokyu Hotel

Check into the centrally located Tokyu Hotel , close to most major attractions, including the bustling Omicho seafood market and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art .

The Itsukushima Shrine is on the UNESCO World Heritage list and dates back to the 12th century.

Photo by Ailisa/Shutterstock

Miyajima Island

Located less than an hour away from the city center of Hiroshima, Miyajima Island is often associated with “floating” orange torii gates in the middle of the Seto Inland Sea, called Itsukushima Shrine. The structure is believed to be a gateway between the spirits and human world. Head to the island’s main commercial street, Omotesando, for souvenirs and restaurants, including a taste of momiji manjyu —a sweet bean paste candy that comes in a number of flavors that range from green tea to chocolate. Walking through Miyajima, you’ll also likely come across a number of four-legged residents—deer, which roam freely through the streets.

Book now: Iwaso

Though many people visit the island for a few hours as a day trip from Hiroshima, there are a number of ryokan to check into, including Iwaso, located a few minutes from the main ferry terminal. Guests can watch deer roam right outside their individual hanare (cottage) in a forest of maple trees with a stream nearby.

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• Get Set For A Road Trip To These 10 Places Near Tokyo And Enjoy A Fascinating Day Trip!

23 Mar 2023

Tokyo is the capital city and has everything under its shed, but there is so much more to explore on the other side of Japan. Don’t you think so? From the mighty mountains which act as a perfect backdrop, to the pristine gardens and beaches which doesn’t fail to surprise its visitors. There are a lot of places near Tokyo which are worth a visit, especially if you have that wandering bug inside you. Just in case you’re planning an exciting road trip from Tokyo, make sure to tick off these places from your bucket list and enjoy vacation outside the metropolis.

10 Best Places Near Tokyo

Here are some of the best places near Tokyo which one must visit if they want to know about the heritage of Japan and also immerse into some surreal views of mountains and panoramic landscapes.

1. Kamakura

Image Source

One of the best and popular places to visit near Tokyo , Kamakura is adorned with all the Kyoto style. From magnificent temples and shrines which brings galore to this little city, there are also some enthralling hiking options. And for the foodie travelers, there are local street food shops which will savour your hungry appetite. The main highlight of Kamakura is the giant Buddha statue where people have to hike through and take a glimpse. Alongside this their beautiful shrines and bamboo forests which covers the place.

Distance From Tokyo : 50 minutes from Tokyo Station

Must Read: These Top Places For Shopping In Tokyo Will Not Burn A Hole In Your Pocket!

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2. Enoshima

For the beach babies, Enoshima is one of the most popular beach resorts near Tokyo which offers a perfect tropical vibe while in Japan. With the view of the sands lying and the stunning islands, this place is a perfect getaway to spend a day in complete relaxation. There are shrines, an old lighthouse and exotic gardens which can be explored by foot. And then there are also some caves which will lead you to a beautiful view to capture. And adding to all the serenity is the relaxing boat ride to the shore.

Distance From Tokyo : 70 minutes from Tokyo Station

Suggested Read: Japan In May: Explore The 10 Most Exciting Activities Japan Offers In May

3. Odawara City

To witness the closest castle in Tokyo, Odawara is indeed a fascinating day trip from the capital city. This castle has preserved the Edo-period drawings carefully in its premises. Apart from that you can also enjoy time at the fishing port and have a scrumptious lunch of Donburi (rice bowl dish) at the Odawara Fish Market Den. Alongside this, there is a relaxing Tsujimura Botanical Garden which will just complete your day trip from Tokyo.

Distance From Tokyo : 75 minutes from Tokyo Station

Suggested Read: Tokyo In November: From Adventure To Sightseeing The Capital City Has A Lot To Explore!

Locally known as little Edo, Kawagoe is a beautiful little which has treasured the traditional buildings and a wide range of good and delicious food. From exploring the Kurazukari street and its warehouse buildings made of clay walls and tiles. Apart from this don’t miss out the warehouses which have been renovated into cafes and restaurants. These food joints serve the traditional lunch sets along with Eel which is their speciality.

Distance From Tokyo : 1 hour from Tokyo station

Suggested Read: 14 Exciting Things To Do In Summer In Japan On Your Holiday

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Nikko is a hidden treasure near Tokyo which is a perfect getaway for the weekend getaways and also for running out from the busy day rush. This place is known for its magnificent sceneries along with temples and shrines. Apart from that, there are some cultural spots which combine the beauty of nature along with heritage. The Toshugu shrine is the main highlight of this place which is dedicated to the founder of Tokugawa Shogunate. Ready for a road trip to this treasured little town?

Distance From Tokyo : 2.5 Hours from Tokyo Station

Suggested Read: 10 Alluring Lakes In Japan That Look Like They’re From Another World!

6. Kawaguchiko

Image Source Kawaguchiko is one of the famous places near Tokyo where you can witness the beautiful view of Mount Fuji which is in every adventure junkies list. This place is adorned by the moss phlox, clear lakes or lavender. Alongside that, this place is known for its annual flower festivals, plenty of museums and nature spots. Kawaguchiko is quite a popular and easy day trip from Tokyo and can be a great escape from the hustle bustle of the city.

Distance From Tokyo : 130 minutes from Shunjuku Station

Suggested Read: Monsoon In Japan: Enjoy The Rains In Japan Alongside Sushi And Ramen!

7. Nokogiriyama

Image Source Find your escape in the nature’s lap at this beautiful retreat which is also called Sawtooth Mountain. This place is a paradise for the hikers and features quarry drops, stunning views, a numerous Buddhas. The famous Nihonji temple located at the mountain top offers a variety of things to explore. There is the largest cliff-carved Buddha and a 30-meter Goddess of Mercy which also has 1500 Arhat in between. The view from here is just incredible and cannot be missed.

Distance From Tokyo : 120 minutes from Tokyo Station

Suggested Read: Villas In Japan You Should Plan Your Stay In For A Luxurious Experience

8. Mount Takao

Image Source Often called a home to a monkey park, Mount Takao is a paradise for the hikers. Mount Takao is one of the best places to visit around Tokyo. Just like the other places in Japan, there is a temple here named Yakuoin temple which is around half way up to the mountain. Standing at this height one can enjoy the panoramic view of Tokyo and Mt Fuji. Apart from that there is a wild plant garden along with the monkey park.

Distance From Tokyo : 1 hour from Shinjuku Station

9. Chiba City

Image Source For a quick getaway from Tokyo, Chiba City is one of the closest places to visit. Adorned by all the traditional and modern architectures, this place gives a feeling of time gone still. The castle in the city is locally famous for being a folk museum where one can go and learn things. Alongside this, the Chiba Shrine is also an impressive spot which cannot be missed. Apart from this there is a Hoki Museum where variety of art works can be witnessed. Also you will get a chance to ride the world’s longest suspended monorail which is exciting and safe.

Distance From Chiba City : 40 minutes from Tokyo Station

10. Matsumoto

Matsumoto is a quite far from Tokyo if you’re planning a day trip but this place is considered as one of the best places to visit near Tokyo. This classy town boasts a famous castle, an onsen town, incredible view of mountain ranges and an ideal place to explore on a cycle. This is one of the best places to visit during spring season as alongwith the beautiful views around, there are plenty of museums which offers a chance to explore the past.

Distance From Tokyo : 275 minutes from Tokyo Station

Further Read: 35 Best Places To Visit In Japan That Make It Look Right Out Of A Storybook

Are you ready to take the much awaited road trip with your gang and explore these heritage places located close to Tokyo? From traditional cities to places which boasts the history of Japan, there are a lot of things to do and explore in the vicinity. So, if a trip to Japan is on your mind, then make sure to not miss out these less known but beautiful places near Tokyo.

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27 Best Things to Do in Tokyo

By Melinda Joe and Anna Chittenden

Deciding the best things to do in Tokyo depends on how much time you have—and for your sake, we hope you have a month. The city’s streets can feel like a game of soccer played at hyper speed, while calmer attractions range from temples, museums , gardens, origami classes, and bohemian sojourns. This city has more than enough going on to put you in a tizzy, so a words of advice: Arrive with a game plan and prepare to get lost along the way, in a good way. Here, the very best things to do in Tokyo.

Read our complete Tokyo travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Senso-ji Arrow

Tokyo may not have as many temples as Kyoto, but Senso-ji isn’t the capital city’s most popular just by default. The atmosphere alone here is one for the bucket list. Senso-ji, the temple itself, is at the end of the shopping street, while a recently renovated five-story pagoda stands to the left (ranking in as the second tallest pagoda in Japan). Japanese visitors flutter around a large cauldron in front of the temple where incense burned inside is said to benefit good health. Travelers keen to avoid crowds should arrive early, but even tourists that are remotely interested in Japanese culture will find something to appreciate here.

Harmonica Yokocho Arrow

This clutch of narrow alleys, a short walk from the north exit of JR Kichijoji station, is stuffed to the gills with hole-in-the wall eateries. A yellow sign marks the entrance to Harmonica Yokocho, which takes its name from the layout of the vendors, slotted cheek-to-jowl along the passageways like the reeds in a harmonica. The atmospheric network of lanes started out as a post-war flea market in the 1940s, but the area underwent a transformation in the 90s when bustling bars and restaurants made their entrance onto the scene. It has a laid-back and hyper-local feel, especially during the daytime, when you’ll find fishmongers and traditional sweets makers plying their trades.

Tokyo Skytree Arrow

Topping off at 2,080 feet, the Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower (that's tower, not building) in the world. From the broadcast tower’s 360-degree observation decks, the whole city—its striking skyscrapers and neon intersections—looks like a magical circuit board. It’s a major tourist attraction and a ticket isn’t cheap (up to ¥3,400, or $25, for combo tickets), but even if you don’t pay to go inside, there’s no denying that the Tokyo Skytree brought the skyline to a whole new level. Depending on where you’re staying, it can be an out-of-the-way trip to eastern Tokyo (luckily, a train station gets you right near the entrance). Families with children will enjoy the experience—especially the speedy elevator rides—as will anyone that loves a jaw-dropping view.

Koganeyu Arrow

Sleek design, a DJ booth, and craft beer on tap: The newly refurbished Koganeyu functions as a lively standing bar and community events space, but the main reason to visit this 89-year-old establishment is to immerse yourself in Tokyo’s sento (public sauna) culture. A crowdfunded renovation has transformed the space into a contemporary sento with four pools, a sauna, and an outdoor bath. Bathing areas for men and women are separated by a 2.2-meter partial wall, while a mural depicting Mount Fuji stretches across both areas like a scroll. You can purchase tickets from the vending machine at the entrance; a 90-minute bathing session costs about $3.50 for adults, $2.70 for students, and $1.30 for children. After emerging from the baths, relax with a glass of craft beer brewed especially for Koganeyu, or try a homemade ginger highball.

Jessica Puckett

Cassie Shortsleeve

Arati Menon

Sakurai Tea Experience Arrow

Copper and wood greet you inside this minimalist sanctuary dedicated to sado, the Japanese “way of tea.” A small retail space filled with glass jars containing 30 varieties of green tea conceals an intimate eight-seat cafe. Founder Shinya Sakurai studied for 14 years to become a master, and his modern take on tea ceremony is meditative and illuminating. As Sakurai prepares the infusions behind an L-shaped wooden counter, a continuous stream of water flows from a copper tap—a symbol of purification. Gyokuro, a luxurious variety of green tea grown in the shade, is the specialty here. Sakurai travels the country to select the leaves, which he roasts daily in-house. The tasting flight for ¥4,800 (about $35) is the best introduction to the range of teas on offer.

Shibuya Crossing Arrow

Anyone remotely impressed that Tokyo is the most populated city in the world should visit the world’s busiest intersection at Shibuya Crossing. Massive video screens flashing advertisements tower above every corner as black-suited salarymen, wide-eyed tourists, and bag-toting shoppers wait and cross in concert. The feeling is oddly soothing, a reminder that whatever our disparate paths in life, they all have a tendency to cross at one time or another. The best time to go is at dusk, one of the scramble’s peak times and in its most flattering light. The Shibuya Scramble Square tower above Shibuya station offers a birds’ eye view of the famous crossing, along with panoramic vistas of the city from the Shibuya Sky rooftop observatory, perched 230 meters above street level.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Arrow

Fancy a stroll in a Japanese garden? Get that and more at Shinjuku Gyoen. In addition to native, traditional gardens, the 144-acre park pockets French Formal and English Landscape gardens, all of which are worth the modest entrance fee. Landmarks are stunning and impossible to forget, like a Taiwan Pavilion perched along a serene pond. Formerly an imperial garden, it became a national garden after World War II—so you can trust that this precious plot is always beautifully maintained. Don’t miss cherry blossom season.

Kappabashi Street Arrow

Kappabashi Street, a district in between Ueno and Asakusa, isn’t so much a food destination as it is a food adjacent destination: While it’s devoted to the restaurant industry, fresh food isn’t why folks come. Instead, the street is a chef’s dream of restaurant supply stores that are known best for sampuru , replicas of food dishes that are part of a century-old craft—and are up for grabs. And, because it’s more trade-focused than tourist-focused, the prices can be somewhat economical. Have any curious cooks in the family? This district is their souvenir heaven.

Azuki to Kouri Arrow

The clean-lined, slate-grey interior of this kakigori ice specialist sets off the ebullient shaved ice creations of pâtissier Miho Horio. Formerly of two-Michelin-starred restaurant Florilege, Horio is one of the young chefs elevating the sweet treat to new heights of refinement. She carefully adjusts the blade of her ice machine to shave blocks of ice—made with spring water from Nikko, north of Tokyo—into fluffy, feathery flakes. Shaping the shavings into a delicate mound, she adds fresh fruit and toppings such as homemade syrups, compotes, and foams. Her signature parfait showcases sweet azuki red beans—the classic kakigori topping for which the café is named—paired with cream and flecks of meringue. Seasonal offerings include salted cherry blossoms with fresh strawberries in spring, and blood orange dusted with grated Amazonian cacao in early summer.

Yoyogi Park Arrow

Yoyogi Park is one of the most amusing parks in Tokyo. Its 134 acres sprawl right in Shibuya, a short skip from Harajuku , and bustle with picnics and performers. The northern side is lush, with clean walkways along expansive, grassy lawns where locals and tourists spread under the shade of Japanese Zelkova trees, and gather around a large pond. Spot impromptu badminton team swinging racquets, a drum circle tapping away at the bongo, or amateur dancers following along to the beat.

Yayoi Kusama Museum Arrow

In a suburban part of Shinjuku, a smooth white building rises five stories high—a museum completely devoted to the works of Yayoi Kusama . The building looks slim, but it houses a bulk of the larger-than-life and avant-garde artist’s pieces, including an installation of her “infinity room” series (an Instagram sensation which, in the past, drew hundreds of thousands of visitors in stateside exhibitions) to polka-dotted paintings and sculptures. The museum changes its exhibition two times a year, and as it’s still relatively new, it’s only cracked the surface of the prolific artist’s work.

Kuge Crafts Arrow

The traditional technique of mending pottery with lacquer sprinkled with gold dust, kintsugi is an art form unto itself. The practice, which dates back to the 15th century, is alive and well at Kuge Crafts, a ceramics studio in the quiet Shin-Koenji neighborhood of western Tokyo. Run by a family of artisans—Yoshiichiro and Yoshiko Kuge, together with their son, Shu—the atelier transforms broken cups and dishes into singular works of art and offers two-hour kintsugi lessons (¥8,000, or about $59) for learners of all levels. The workshop will provide all the materials; you can bring your own damaged vessel for repair or ask them to prepare a piece for you to work on.

Sumo at Ryogoku Kokugikan Arrow

Only three of six official grand sumo tournaments happen in Tokyo, all at Ryogoku Kokugikan. The stadium houses over 11,000 eager fans under its green, pavilion-style roof. Official tournaments last just over two weeks each, which means Ryogoku Kokugikan sometimes hosts other events (boxing, for example). But sumo is the arena’s feature attraction, and if you’re hoping to see sumo in Tokyo, this is where to find it. Tamari seats, which are those immediately surrounding the ring, are the most coveted—and virtually impossible to score. But the next series of rows, box seats, are as close as you can get. Box seats are top-dollar, but little more than rows of tatami mats lined with red square cushions (with no backs) sold in groups of four—so cozy up, and pay up (¥380,00, or about $279, for a box). There are proper stadium seats along the second-floor mezzanine, but the thrill of witnessing this traditional Japanese sport up close is all about getting comfortable with the floor.

The Bellwood Arrow

Modeled after an early 20th-century Japanese coffee house, this swanky watering hole is fitted with modern-retro touches like a stained glass panel bearing the bar’s name, bookended by images of Mount Fuji and a martini under the moon. The main space is great for after-work drinks or late-night tipples, but the bar recently opened a glass-encased private room to host a series of food-and-cocktail pairing experiments. Witty twists on classic cocktails are prepared with flair. Start light with the Kome Tonic, made with rice-based shochu, then explore the seasonal menu: Tango Mule made with gin and Fernet Branca laced with roasted mate, or the Okushibu Fashioned with bourbon, kinako soy powder and a hint of bitter mugmort.

Nihon Minka-en Japan Open-air Folk House Museum Arrow

Though only 20 minutes by train from central Tokyo, the Nihon Minka-En Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum, located in a suburb of neighboring Kawasaki City, feels a world—and several centuries—away. The sprawling grounds are home to 25 marvelously preserved Edo-era homes relocated from all over the Japanese countryside, spanning an array of styles from farmhouses to samurai houses and includes a shrine, water mill and kabuki stage. Don’t miss the traditional indigo dyeing workshop in the middle of the park houses a small shop where you can find indigo-dyed everything, from socks and sweaters to handkerchiefs and masks.

Koffee Mameya Kakeru Arrow

Don't expect your average cup of joe at Koffee Mameya Kakeru, housed in a renovated warehouse in the Shirakawa coffee district in eastern Tokyo. Beyond the sleek glass facade, the interior designed by art director Tomohiro Kato and architect Yosuke Hayashi features a massive oak structure built around the artfully arranged coffee shelves. A rectangular wooden frame encases a three-sided stone counter built around three black tables where the baristas display their skills. Coffee maestro and founder Eiichi Kumimoto launched Koffee Mameya Kakeru to go deep into the world of the brew and push the boundaries of the drink's potential. The menu showcases seasonal varieties, but the omakase-style coffee tasting courses (including a range of cold and milk brews, mocktails, and lattes) take center stage, offering a fascinating journey through the diverse flavors and artistry of coffee. Coffee cocktail champion Akira Zushi dazzles with flair bartending skills and innovative cocktails like the milk brew blended with hop-accented jasmine tea and lemon, finished with a spritz of prickly ash water.

Oedo Antique Market Arrow

Oedo Antique Market is a marvelous outdoor fair held near Tokyo Station twice a month, with stalls selling wonderful antique and vintage wares. Hundreds of independent stallholders set up shop to sell their one-of-a-kind objects. There isn’t a huge number of antique or vintage homeware shops in Tokyo—so if you’re looking for old, interesting, and unique Japanese items for your home, this is the place to come. The items on sale at Oedo are completely one-off and unique. You’d be hard pressed to find a permanent shop in Tokyo that has the choice and style that you’ll find here. For first dibs, come earlier in the day.

Kyu Asakura House Arrow

Built in 1919, the former residence of government official Torajiro Asakura is a marvelously preserved example of traditional Japanese architecture tucked into Tokyo’s bustling Daikanyama district. For ¥100 (about 73 cents), you can wander through the building’s stately wooden corridors, tatami-floored rooms, and beautifully manicured grounds. The suginoma (cedar rooms) on the west side of the structure offer postcard-perfect views of the Japanese garden—particularly in the autumn, when the maple trees blaze with color. One of the city’s best-kept secrets, the property is an oasis of calm. It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds for an hour or two and contemplate the passing of time.

Nakameguro Arrow

It’s okay to visit the artsy neighborhood, Nakameguro, just to see its seasonal appeal as one of the most picture-perfect spots for cherry blossoms in spring. However, stick around these charming streets and you’ll find a hip collection of independent cafes and boutiques that offer a laid-back alternative to the city’s buzzing hubs. Sakura trees hug the Meguro River in Nakameguro’s center, blossoming as they lean over the sloped, canal-like walls surrounding the water. Once you’ve taken a moment to smell the blossoms (and fill your phone with pictures), you’ll find an array of independent boutiques and cafes branching off along narrow streets in either direction. Head to the corner-side Onibus Coffee, which serves single-origin espresso, and stop at SML, a boutique stocking delightful crafts (especially ceramics) made by Japanese artists. 

Nakano Broadway Arrow

A Tokyo mecca for anime- and manga-loving otaku subculture fans, the Nakano Broadway is a multi-story shopping arcade that has become a hub for niche collectors of all stripes. When it first opened in 1966, the complex epitomized the spirit of future-perfect economic optimism sparked by the Tokyo Olympics. Competition from newer shopping malls emptied its corridors of fancy boutiques in the 80s, before the Broadway reinvented itself as a center for used manga and anime models in the 90s. More than 300 tiny outlets are crammed into the aging edifice’s bottom five floors, offering everything from vintage Godzilla and Astroboy figurines to designer watches and creepy dolls galore.

Isetan Arrow

Isetan is Tokyo’s best—and most famous—department store; its history dates back to 1886, when it started as a kimono shop. The sprawling flagship in Shinjuku is spread out over nine floors, each offering something special. There’s a big fashion focus, with local Japanese brands sitting beside international names. Don’t miss a visit to the wonderful food hall on B1, which sells a variety of Japanese snacks and goodies, including beautifully prepared bento boxes for lunch.

Tsukiji Market Arrow

In October 2018, the world’s largest fish market, Tsukiji, shut down after 83 years and re-opened in two distinct parts. At the original location, it’s pretty much business as usual, with street-food stalls serving up everything from seared tuna to uni sandwiches in squid-ink sticky buns. Just down the road at Toyosu Market , meanwhile, you can taste fresh raw fish in a series of sushi bars and peek in on the auctions (formerly held at Tsukiji) and live fish sales from a second-story viewing station. You can also tour a large green space on the rooftop, which affords views of the Tokyo skyline.

Heiwa Doburoku Brewery Kabutocho Arrow

This simple but stylish Wakayama-based sake brewpub in Tokyo makes clever use of a corner space in Kabutocho, the recently hip neighborhood near the Tokyo Stock Exchange building. As the name suggests, the bar specializes in doburoku, a rustic style of unfiltered and lightly fermented sake characterized by its thick texture. Previously outlawed for taxation reasons, the traditional brew is making a comeback, appearing on menus at Tokyo's trendiest restaurants and bars. Large windows, pale wood fixtures, and a curved counter surrounding a small open kitchen give the bar an open and airy feel. The menu lists dry-hopped and aged doburoku, varieties made with ground adzuki red beans or black beans, and a few seasonal styles flavored with fruits or herbs. But the best place to start is with the original, plain doburoku, a thick and yogurty brew with a touch of fruity fizz. Brewer Heiwa Shuzo's excellent craft beers are served on tap (we love the golden ale infused with fragrant sansho prickly ash peppercorns), and the bar offers a nice selection of the brewery's clear, award-winning sake.

Nezu Museum Arrow

This serene museum in the Aoyama district, redesigned by celebrated architect Kengo Kuma, is a contemporary temple for traditional art. A long, covered outdoor path alongside bamboo-clad walls serves as a minimalist entrance, but once inside, double-height interiors and glass walls stretch over 40,000 square feet while keeping the experience intimate. And while the museum mixes contemporary design and traditional art on the inside—over 7,400 pieces—the outside counts, too: The property is home to a stunning private garden that’s worth the visit all on its own. The bulk of the museum’s art was once the private collection of Nezu Kaichirō, the president of Japan’s Tobu Railway. Since the midcentury, the collection grew and now comprises over 7,400 pieces.

Bohemian Tokyo in Shimokitazawa Arrow

Only one express stop away from the brighter-than-bright energy of Shibuya, Shimokita (what locals call Shimokitazawa) is like turning down the volume and switching to an acoustic track. It might embrace its bohemian style—with vintage stores on seemingly every block—but it doesn’t lose that unmistakable, sophisticated Japanese style in the process. Sift through secondhand shops, sip coffee, and repeat.

Monzen-Nakacho Arrow

The old-school neighborhood of Monzen-Nakacho—known as “Mon-Naka” among locals—has retained its colorful, salt-of-the-earth shitamachi (downtown) atmosphere since the Edo era (1603-1868). Two main draws are the stately Tomioka Hachiman Shrine and the Fukagawa Fududo temple, where you can hear the sounds of drumming and chanting from the temple’s fire ceremony, held five times a day. These days, hipster coffee shops and natural wine boîtes nestle against traditional shops selling pickles, Japanese confections, and old-timey delicacies like tsukudani—bits of seafood long-simmered in soy sauce and sugar. It’s a terrific place to spend a lazy afternoon wandering the cobbled streets and alleyways en route to the Museum of Contemporary Art in neighboring Kiba. But at night, the neighborhood comes alive with an array of reasonably priced eating and drinking spots.

teamLab Borderless Arrow

With the first iteration of Borderless in Odaiba, the art collective Teamlab created an endlessly Instagrammable, sumptuous and surreal museum dedicated to multi-sensory digital art. Opened in 2018, the facility, which set the world record for the most visited museum dedicated to a single artist, closed its doors in 2022. However, Borderless 2.0 is set to relocate to a permanent location in the soon-to-open Azabudai Hills mixed-use complex in central Tokyo in early 2024. Boderless consists of installations that feature constantly morphing patterns and designs that seem to flow seamlessly from room to room in a maze-like space. Updated versions of some of the museum’s previous works will be on display, as well as several new installations: a room filled with hundreds of multicolored lights that run along tracks continuously and a series of interactive “light sculptures,” to name a few.

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Is Tokyo Worth Seeing? 14 Best and Worst Places to Visit in Tokyo and Lots of Opinions

Tokyo strikes me as a peculiar beast. Touted as the world's largest city, with travel guides devoting endless pages to its glory, I find it bafflingly underwhelming . Like… there’s nothing to do in Tokyo unless you fall into a quirky niche, like “obsessed with crowds” or “want-maids-to-wait-on-me weird”.

Unlike the serene politeness of Kyoto, Tokyo's hustle feels brash , its streets a far cry from the considerate Japan you’ll find just about everywhere else. Post-1945, it's a city reborn, yet, aside from the manga madness and pachinko games, it lacks the soul-stirring sights Japan is known for. If I were to journey through Japan again, Tokyo might not even make my list of places to see! It's the LA of Japan —overhyped, yet somehow a must-visit for the uninitiated.

Is Tokyo overrated? Yes! One of the top things to see in Tokyo is Godzilla on a rooftop , for Pete’s sake! But we all know you’re still going anyway out of fear of dying of FOMO . If Tokyo does call your name, I say indulge in its true highlight: karaoke , an unexpected joy (and the place I found my hidden talent), and then choose from my list of Tokyo sights based on your personal taste.

Godzilla tip: If you’re one of the people that’s more excited about Godzilla than I want to know about, book yourself into the Gracery Hotel Shinjuku . You can not only get a room with a Godzilla view, but he’ll also be waiting for you in the lobby. You’re welcome.

I’m going to show you around! @DisneySea  

In this article, I’ll describe 11 places to see in Tokyo and 3 to skip (yawn), including my personal experience with them so you can gage how you’d like them. I’ll add 3 day trips from Tokyo because, well, you’ll probably need them to fill your time “in” Tokyo.

Tip: Ready to ignore my advice on skipping Tokyo, stop with all this daydreaming and see it for yourself? I’ve put together a 3-day Tokyo itinerary for you so you can go get bored IRL! The last of the 3 days is spent either on a day trip outside of Tokyo or at DisneySea... Because Tokyo is overrated!              

Now let’s get crackin’ with this Tokyo guide!

What NOT to see in Tokyo (because it’s boring)

Right off the bat, don’t waste your time trying to figure out if you need to see these 3 places in Tokyo. I won’t even waste my (and your) time writing about them. Instead, I’ll just share my notes:

• Ginza , the skyscraper district: Yep, lots of skyscrapers.
• Takeshita Street , the pop culture mecca: At least they have the garbage cans ( read my Japan travel tips if you have no idea why there are no garbage cans anywhere in Japan).
• Roppongi , the entertainment district: Nothing, just some nice restaurants and clubs. A single small extra point for views of Tokyo Tower.

Best places to see in Tokyo (though some just barely made the list)

On the other hand, definitely take the time to see these places in Tokyo:

1. Ghibli Museum

Ghibli Museum gives the perfect anime vibes. Notice Totoro at the counter on the bottom left The highlight of my Tokyo trip was the Ghibli Museum, and I’m not an anime fan or anything. The Ghibli Museum is a must for die-hard anime fans and the curious alike, a dive into the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli. It's like stepping into a Miyazaki film —whimsical, unexpected, and utterly captivating.

Imagine every nook and cranny, from the stained-glass windows to the cute ticket, snipped from a real piece of Ghibli film history. I had to laugh at the human-size Totoro inside the ticket counter. I can’t lie, he looks a little creepy standing there with a straight face while everyone else is smiling ear to ear.

You’ll notice that the building and museum grounds themselves are colorful and cutesy , so you’ll be in anime mood the moment you approach from the outside. Once inside, it's a feast for the senses, with exhibits that bring to life the studio's iconic films.

The museum itself might not be sprawling, but the 3 floors and rooftop (with Laputa waiting for you up there) are packed with Ghibli awesomeness, and it’s interesting to see how Ghibli films are made. Sure, there might not be English translations , but who needs words when you're being spoken to in the universal language of wonder? Don’t miss the chance to see the museum-exclusive short film !

No photos are allowed inside.

There’s a better-than-expected café on site as well. You’ll need about 1.5 hours for your Ghibli Museum visit.

How to buy tickets to the Ghibli Museum

A heads up about tickets: getting one requires planning as they are quick to sell out and impossible to buy on the spot . Tickets are sold online for a specific date and time and are released for sale on the 10 th of each month for the following month. You’ll need to stand by with your credit card and fast clicking action if you want to have a good choice of time slots.

You can buy up to 6 tickets at once and you’ll need to present your ticket reservation email once you arrive at the Ghibli Museum. Say hi to Totoro for me!

Getting to the Ghibli Museum: train or car?

The Ghibli Museum is in Mitaka , which is to the west of Tokyo city center, easily accessible by train or car.

Train: To get to JR Mitaka Station , take the JR Chuo Line, which takes 20 minutes from JR Shinjuku Station. It's a 15-minute walk to the museum from the station’s south exit.

Car: If you’re driving from the centrally located Nohga Hotel Akihabara for example (which is where we stayed and can recommend it), it’s 22 km (14 miles) and depending on the time of day you go it may take up to an hour to get to the museum (there’s a parking lot available by the museum).

• Ghibli Museum official website
• Open daily 10 am–6 pm
• Tickets cost JPY 1000 for adults

2. Karaoke in Tokyo—the best activity in the city!

My girlfriend enjoyed Tokyo karaoke to the fullest. Especially when I was singing  

If you don’t sing karaoke in Tokyo, you haven’t been to Japan. It’s a completely crazy experience—imagine a 7-floor building where each floor is lined with one tiny karaoke room next to another and it is PACKED with people belting all the top hits you can think of. Hilariously, everyone is singing way worse that they think they are .

It’s simple : you go to the reception, ask for karaoke booth based on the number of people, usually by the half-hour or hour and paid per person, and you’ll be given a booth number to go to. Prices depend on the time you visit (weekends and evenings are more expensive), but lets say you should expect JPY 1000 per person per hour . It is standard (and sometimes mandatory) to order drinks and food , too. Those are paid separately when you are checking out. Some places even have costumes that you can borrow if you want to dress the part, or maybe for a confidence boost, or maybe to act out some weird fantasy , who knows. I was awesome even in my regular clothes, so...

Once you’re in your booth, it’s pretty easy to find your way around the tablet with song choices if you remember to switch it to English before you start and you’ll be singing “Flowers” in no time!

Needless to say, we had a blast, it was my top favorite activity in Toyko, hands down. And I found out I can rap! Like, I’m good, dude! Rock songs… not so much.

There are so many karaoke houses to try in Tokyo, each with a different style and theme, so you’ll have no trouble to find a spot when the urge to grab a mic hits. Some of the most popular karaoke chains are: KaraokeKan, Big Echo, Shidax, and Uta Hiroba.

3. Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree—the tallest tower in the world   

Towering over Tokyo, the Skytree isn't just tall; it's the tallest in the world! The tallest tower, that is, and one of the tallest structures, at 634 m (2,080 ft). This is the type of experience I’d expect from Tokyo —something better and cooler than anywhere else in the world, something that makes you go “Wow!” (too bad it’s the only place that actually lived up to the hype in Tokyo).

The Tokyo Skytree will redefine your idea of 'panoramic.' It’s official, respectable job is being a broadcasting tower. But, just like Clark Kent, he has something a little more fun up his sleeve, too—two eye-popping observation decks, complete with spiral staircases and a glass floor that’ll leave some people white-knuckling the walls! I had no such urge… on the outside, but was looking for my nearest exit and a parachute on the inside, haha.

I got to the first viewing platform and was blown away. Now this is the Tokyo I’m talking about! You can see all the way until the Earth curves! Or so it seems. Then you reach the top viewing area and you are smacked in the face with even better views! Try to make out Mt. Fuji in the distance , it’s a surreal experience. But that glass floor, damn!

There’s a restaurant and a café that you can enjoy as well, but we gave it a miss. Of course, there are souvenirs on sale, and you can even send a postcard home from the Skytree itself.

At night, the Skytree alternates between three illumination colors (blue, purple, and redish orange), as well as some special lightings thrown in here and there to keep it spicy.

If you’re taking the train , head to Tokyo Skytree Station or nearby Oshiage Station.

Getting tickets for Tokyo Skytree

Ticket lines can be as long as the tower is tall, but you’re a smart traveler that reads the best travel blog (this one), so you’ll buy them in advance on the official website (up to 30 days in advance). If you’re not sure what’s going on and can’t plan to save your life, you can still save your image by buying same-day tickets online (for a little more money). Everything is better than just rocking up and hoping to catch a break.

Is Tokyo Skytree worth it?

Absolutely, Tokyo Skytree is worth a visit because the views from it are truly spectacular! You know, especially if you're all about those cityscapes that stretch into tomorrow (and all the way to Mt. Fuji if you have good visibility!). And it’s simply an impressive structure.

• Tokyo Skytree official website
• Open daily 10 am–9 pm, last admission 8 pm
• Tickets cost JPY 2700 for both decks if bought in advance, JPY 3100 for same-day tickets

4. DisneySea

This was actually great fun  

I highly recommend spending one of your Tokyo days at DisneySea, the only one of its kind globally. This place has a slighty more grown-up vibe than Disneyland (like a tad, nothing major, there are still children everywhere and rides for little kids too), making it a no-brainer for those of us roaming without a kid iin tow. All of the reviews I’ve read say DisneySea is the best out of all the Disneylands worldwide, so if you’re on the fence, don’t be.

DisneySea can be done in a day —I, for one, don’t need extra days of any theme park (but we also had a blast at Universal Studios in Osaka !), but you may decide differently. If you are following in my footsteps and opting for a single day, get there early . For a cool 60 bucks (USD), you get in, but then you’ll want those priority passes once you see the queues—or, if you're as neurotic as I am, splurge on a timed entry and breeze past the masses.

I love how DisneySea has an actual harbor with a steamboat , you can see they had the budget to make it truly a place “where imagination and adventure set sail” (the official tagline). At USD 4 billion, DisneySea is the most expensive theme park ever built .

As something that seems almost as an oversight, despite the sea in its name, there's ironically just one water ride at DisneySea.

My favorite parts of DisneySea were the Arabian Coast (I loved Aladin as a kid!) and Toy Story (I honestly didn’t know it was Disney).

The Tower of Terror is a huge building and one of the main focal points of the park. It was… completely different than we expected, and boy, is that drop tall!! I don’t want to give you any spoilers, but it was a thrill. Even waiting in line was exciting—if you like to be freaked out.

As is standard in Disney Parks, even waiting in line is usually quite entertaining , though we only ever waited 15 minutes max, so I can’t say how much I’d like it if we were stuck there for 45 minutes . Just know that if the line seems to be short or moving fast outside, it may be a completely different story once you get inside. They zig-zag the heck out of those waiting areas.

Other DisneySea highlights, like the Journey to the Center of the Earth ride, with its dark tunnels and monster exhibits, make you forget you're in a theme park and not on some sci-fi adventure. Very much appreciated for the childless visitor!

My girlfriend and Neptun  

Some places, like Fortress Exploration , had me wondering what Disney movie they’re supposed to be from. And don’t get me started on the Venetian Village . I mean, what's up with that? It's like wandering into a Renaissance fair by accident.

Then there's Soaring: Fantastic Flight . Save it for later in the day when the queues die down, or just get that fast pass. The 3D waiting room alone is worth it , never mind the sensation of flying across the world in 5 minutes.

DisneySea is like Disney, but not. It's a day well spent. The verdict? DisneySea might just top the charts as the best theme park on the planet, with food that'll have you forgetting every theme park meal you've ever had.

And if you’re afraid you’re missing out on the real Disney magic, don’t be. Disney has a knack for turning employees into perpetually waving, smiling robots , and the sets are as magical as they can be, so you still get the whole experience just like you would in Disneyland.

DisneySea vs Disneyland: What’s the difference?

DisneySea is like Disneyland’s older cousin—a little more mature, and a little more obsessed with water.

Cool building, right? The Tower of Terror!  

DisneySea is the only one of its kind in the world, and it's where Disney ditches the tiaras for a touch of sophistication . Aimed slightly more at adults (or at least, the young at heart), it's an exploration of themed ports and nautical adventures. Think less Cinderella, more Nemo . The vibe here is mature; the rides a bit more thrilling ; and the scenery absolutely stunning. It's Disney with a dash of grown-up magic, plus a few beers thrown in for good measure (or was that just me?).

Disneyland, on the other hand, is the classic Disney experience . It's where fairy tales come to life, with castles, princesses, and all the Mickey Mouse you can handle. It's family-friendly to the core, designed to enchant visitors of all ages with its blend of nostalgic rides and timeless characters . Disneyland is where you go to live out those childhood dreams, complete with parades and meet-and-greets with your favorite characters.

5. Senso-ji

Time for some shopping and fortune telling @ Senso-ji  

Ah, Senso-ji, the oldest spot in Tokyo for those seeking some spiritual street cred; it honors Kannon, the goddess of mercy (you can see 1000 statues of the 11-headed, 1000-armed goddess at Sanjusangendo in Kyoto ). It's like the granddaddy of temples, standing since 645—though it was mostly rebuilt in the 1960s because history in Japan is basically a series of "build, burn, repeat."

Senso-ji is a large and colorful Buddhist temple , very popular, with lots of people always out and about. When you enter through the main gate, you’ll somewhat unexpectedly find a longish shopping street with traditional Japanese souvenirs being sold. Hey, maybe you really do need that 3 rd folding fan! It’s a historical street with many small stores, though the iPhone covers and toys don’t really match the theme.

Along the street and further inside, you can get your fortune told through omikuji (fortune-telling paper slips). For a non-believer such as myself, it’s just a silly little joke, fine for JPY 100. For the superstitious, such as my girlfriend, it’s a nail-biting 3 seconds trying to choose the right stick.  

Don't miss the chance to cleanse yourself with smoke and water before entering—it's like a spiritual detox. I think the smoke is supposed to make you smarter and then the water purifies you.

The pagoda at Senso-ji is said to contain Buddha’s shoes . They say if you can fill them, you're the chosen one. Just kidding. But it's good to know why this place is so special. Bet you didn’t think it was because of footwear!

Buddha’s shoes are enshrined in the pagoda  

Tip: I’ve explained the difference between a Buddhist temple and a Shinto shrine in another article, along with the appropriate etiquette at either.  You don’t want to get your claps and bows all wrong!

You can get to Senso-ji from Asakusa Station . From Tokyo Station, it’s about a 15-minute ride with 1 transfer at Kanda Station.

• Senso-ji grounds are always open. The main temple is open daily 6 am–5 pm. The shops open around 9 and stay open until late.

6. Akihabara district: Gadgets, anime, maid cafes, and pachinko

Akihabara during the day...  

Welcome to Tokyo’s geek heaven, or as I like to call it, the " Why yes, I do need a third LED-backlit keyboard " district. It’s quintessential Tokyo where neon lights and billboards rule the architecture. And if you leave without seeing a grown man in a Pikachu outfit , did you even go to Akihabara?

The Akihabara district is a sensory overload . It's where your wallet goes to die a glorious death among the latest tech gadgets and rare collectibles, and where you go marvel at how in a city with a population like Tokyo, you really can find a target audience for absolutely everything.

In summary, you could say that Akihabara is where you can experience some very specific Japanese activities . For me, I’m definitely “been there, done that, don’t want the t-shirt” on this one.

Let’s talk about maid cafes. “The what cafes?” Oh, they're exactly what they sound like —bizarre and utterly Japanese, and, if I can make a subjective assessment, pretty uncool. The people that visit these establishments are just strange (as you’d imagine).

Maid cafes are cafes where waitresses are dressed like maids . They greet customers using an annoying voice and tend to them in an overly friendly, servant-like manner, even drawing cute pictures onto their food, or breaking out into song and dance. Basically, they act like I’d never want anyone around me in real life to act. To add to the nonsense, these ladies were some of the least attractive I’d seen in Japan, and it took ages to get our order. They may be squeaky and awkwardly complacent , but they sure are slow!

And then there are the pachinko houses . In short, it’s a local hangout of gambling addicts . But gambling is prohibited in Japan, right?! Right. But this pinball machine turned into a “secret” gambling game, and it’s the loudest thing you’ll ever experience. It feels very out of place in an otherwise outwardly reserved Japan.

...and Akihabara at night  

The name pachinko comes from the sound the metal balls make in the machine, “pachi pachi” (you have to repeat that super-fast and loud to get the idea). When you add the music, sounds, and flashing lights of each pachinko machine, you get a headache really fast.

How does pachinko gambling work?

As I mentioned, gambling is prohibited, but since you’re playing for metal balls , Pachinko is just fine. Once you’ve won (or lost) enough games, you gather your balls, and then the magic loophole happens: To get your cash winnings, you have to leave the pachinko house, balls in hand , and go to a separate building where they give you money for said balls. Hence, it isn’t actual gambling… you’re just selling your metal balls. Of course, everyone knows about it, but I guess the lawmakers are pachinko players, too.

Tokyo hotel tip: Given that I loved Akihabara so much, you may be surprised that this was where our hotel was located. Yep, we slept in the midst of all the neon + pachinko + maid madness! But the hotel was great, I have to admit.

The Nohga Akihabara is not cheap, but it's got the best eats around. You're trading space for vibe here with cozy 21m 2 rooms. Its secret weapon? Killer blackout curtains keeping out the glare of the sun, moon, and neon billboards. Downside? No heated toilet seat —felt like a step back into the Ice Age! Our butts were used to a little more special treatment by this part of our Japan itinerary.

7. Imperial Palace

This is where the emperors live  

The Imperial Palace is where you can't actually go inside any of the buildings, let alone see the emperor, but can wander around his massive garden! I guess it’s interesting because you know they’re in there, somewhere . If you take the guided tour, you can spend 75 minutes walking onto a tiny portion of the otherwise forbidden Inner Grounds. I’m not really sure what you do on that short walk for so long because I didn’t care to find out, but it’s an option. Tours are free and run twice a day.

Tip: In case you really, really want to see the imperial family, you have a chance! Twice a year, on January 2 nd and then again on February 23 rd , which is the emperor’s birthday, the guided tour takes a slightly different route and the emperor and his family come out onto the balcony of the palace and waive to the public.

The Imperial Palace sits in the heart of Tokyo, a green oasis with important-looking buildings surrounded by a moat —because nothing says "keep out" like a body of water. It’s nothing spectacular, but it’s a must-see in Tokyo. You can walk around the Outer Gardens and get all the way up to Nijubashi Bridge , which connects the Outer and Inner Gardens. Only guided tours are allowed over the bridge.

You can walk to the Imperial Palace’s Kikyo-mon Gate from Tokyo Station in about 10 minutes .

• Official website of the Imperial Household Agency
• The grounds are always open and free to enter
• Guided tours go at 10 am and 1:30 pm every day except for Mondays and Sundays. Tickets are free but limited in number. They can be reserved on the Imperial Household Agency’s website or you can try to get a walk-in ticket at Kikyo-mon Gate.

8. Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is interesting, perhaps only because tourists make it interesting. Otherwise, it's just a busy pedestrian crossing  

It's just a colossal crosswalk, folks ! Sure, it's a spectacle of human flow, but once you've seen it, well, you've seen it. You can really start to tell the pickings are slim in Tokyo when one of must-sees is also very overrated. Shibuya Crossing is… a busy crosswalk! WOW! I know you want to see it and walk it for yourself, so did I, and so did a thousand other tourists. Now that I think of it, I wonder if it’s the tourists making it this busy…

Shibuya Crossing is pure chaos, because the crosswalks don’t just connect 4(ish) regular street corners, but there’s also the massive diagonal path down the middle . With this addition, the crossing possibilities are almost endless! You could spend hours doing figure eights at Shibuya Crossing if you wanted. Maybe when you find out how overrated Tokyo is and you run out of things to do, lol. Add people stopping in the middle, taking pictures and capturing videos, and you’ve got yourself an overcrowded nightmare. Or an epic experience, you choose.

Where is the best view of the Shibuya Crossing?

If you’re hoping to get a shot of Shibuya Crossing from higher grounds, you can try several options:

• There’s a Starbucks at the intersection with big windows, which is an ok option but it’s still pretty low to the ground.
• At Shibuya Station, follow the signs towards Shibuya Mark City. You can catch a view from the passage way, though it’s not the best view.
• A paid option is at the observation deck of the Magnet 109 building. Take the elevator to Mag’s Park , the rooftop event area. The views from up here are awesome! For JPY 1500 you get Shibuya Crossing views and a drink.
• The L’Occitane Café building has several cafes that have window seats. Guess what you can see from those windows?

To get to Shibuya Crossing, take exit no. 8 (Hachiko Square) from Shibuya Station .

BONUS: Speaking of which, I’d like to add an honorable mention for Hachiko , whose statue you can see at Hachiko Square. Hachiko, the legendary loyal pooch of Tokyo, is the city's unofficial mascot of fidelity. This dog took "man's best friend" to a whole new level , waiting for his owner every day at Shibuya Station, even years after his owner couldn't come back (because he was dead—in case that wasn’t clear).

Loyal dog shout out to Greyfriars Bobby ! This good boy has a similar story and a statue of his own in Edinburgh, Scotland. Read Bobby’s story (and my attempt at poking holes in the story).

These last three places are day trips from Tokyo . Because sooner or later, you’ll realize you want to escape the concrete jungle full of weird people (or just too many people in general) that is Tokyo. Here are my top picks:

9. Day trip from Tokyo to Nikko 

Oh Nikko, how I love thee  

Nikko, our first stop on our Japan trip, ended up being my favorite place in Japan . Forget the food, though—total letdown. And while a bad restaurant experience has been known to completely shatter my opinion of a place (looking at you, Ronda !), Nikko’s charm level managed to hold up.

I think Nikko is worth 2 days of your time, but if a day trip from Tokyo is all you have manage, do it. The place is a postcard come to life , with gems like Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls, and the majestic Toshogu Shrine. Just brace yourself for the traffic; it's a nightmare. But even that didn’t make me love Nikko any less. Every honk and delay is worth it for the views and the serenity of spots like Yudaki Falls and the Imperial Villa.

Nikko is a 2-hour drive or train trip from Tokyo city center.

Nikko hotel tip: The Marriott in Nikko is fantastic. I’m not usually a chain hotel type of guy, but the Marriott’s fantastic location, extremely comfy beds, and uber-smart toilets had me impressed. The coffee… not so much. Bleh.

Get more info: If you’re intrigued, hop over to my full guide to Nikko’s top sights.

10. Day trip from Tokyo to Kamakura

The Great Buddha statue in Kamakura survived even a tsunami  

Kamakura, with its chill vibe and historical depth , feels like stepping back in time. It's a coastal town where dozens of ancient temples meet the beach.

The Great Buddha is the headliner , but the real show is the town's laid-back atmosphere, contrasting sharply with Tokyo's frenzy—you’ll need a breather after a few days in Tokyo, trust me.

You can visit shrines like Hasedera, all set against a backdrop of lush greenery and beaches . The vibe here is a mix of spiritual tranquility and seaside relaxation. I steer clear of hippie towns, but Kamakura manages to stay more in surfer dude territory (a decidedly more Janapese kind) and less in obnoxious tie dye and crystals land. It's a place where you can explore the Kotoku-in Temple, get lost in the bamboo groves of Hokokuji (and compare them to that of the more famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest ), or just hang by the beach.

A day trip to Kamakura is a must for anyone wanting to swap city hustle for some zen and sea breeze.

Kamakura’s 1.5 hours away from central Tokyo by train or car.

11. Day trip from Tokyo to Hakone and Mt. Fuji

Mt. Fuji, we’re coming for you!  

I’m adding Mt. Fuji as a day trip from Tokyo despite there being enough things to see and do in the Hakone area to fill a lovely 2–3 days. But if you must squeeze it into 12 or so hours, leave early and make the most of it.

Mt. Fuji is Japan’s tallest peak (and active volcano), respectfully called Fuji-san by the locals. The nearby town of Hakone is a haven of natural beauty and surprisingly good restaurants, and the perfect place to base yourself if I convince you to spend the night(s).

While some Insta-famous spots like Hakone-jinja, the shrine on Ashinoko lake, might not live up to the hype, the real treasures like the Owakudani valley, the vistas of the super volcano, and hikes make it unforgettable.

For a little 1-hour long hike and the best views of Mt. Fuji (if the clouds are playing ball), take the purple trail at Mt. Mitsutoge.

Check out the pirate boats on Lake Ashi , and don't miss Chureito Pagoda viewpoint. It's that iconic red pagoda with Fuji in the backdrop —you know, the one that screams "Japan" in every photo. It’s not as amazing as Instagram wants it to look, but it’s nice.

For a touch of adventure, the Owakudani Valley , with its steaming vents and volcanic landscapes, offers a stark contrast to the serene beauty of Fuji. It's a reminder that this tranquil giant is very much alive (and smelly!).

Getting to Mt. Fuji from Tokyo is a breeze. The drive to Hakone takes 1.5 hours from central Tokyo . If you’re going by train, you’ll need to make at least one transfer and it’ll take you at least 2 hours. Drive, I tell ya!

So, where will you go next? Hakone was great. Just saying... (notice Mt. Fuji’s tip in the background)  

For everything Mt. Fuji, including tips on the best viewpoints, hikes, tourist attractions that are and aren’t worth it, and one of the top restaurants I encountered in Japan, check out my Hakone + Mt. Fuji guide (or go straight for the itinerary).

If you’d like to see how to fit all of the above (and some extras) into 3 days, hop on over to my 3-day Tokyo itinerary. If you’d like to see other places in Japan that have way more to offer, check out my guide to Kyoto or Nikko.  

This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission if you make bookings through my links, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!  

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Hi! I’m Jan. I live in Prague, Czech Republic. I try to experience the best the world has to offer, and I don’t cease to be impressed. But if I’m not, I’m sure going to tell you! You can count on my full honesty and real opinions here. No bullcrap. I own and run several companies, which gives me great (but not unlimited) freedom to roam the world.  

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Home » Asia » Japan » Tokyo

26 BEST Places to Visit in Tokyo (2024)

Tokyo is simply out of this world, with its amazing food and endless entertainment options. It’s the go-to place if you want to dive into a culture completely different from your own. This city is a rollercoaster of excitement, sometimes a bit quirky, but definitely a must-visit at least once in your lifetime. Whether you’re into shopping, trying new cuisines, or just soaking in different lifestyles, Tokyo has it all.

However, the catch is, it can be a bit heavy on the wallet. Tokyo stands out as one of the pricier cities in Asia for both travel and living expenses, which might be a hurdle if you’re on a tight budget. But fear not! You don’t need to empty your pockets to have a blast in Tokyo. With a bit of caution and some smart choices in activities and places to visit, you can have an incredible time without burning a hole in your wallet.

To steer you toward budget-friendly activities, affordable hotels, and places that won’t make you regret checking your bank account, here’s your guide to making the most of this fantastic city without breaking the bank.

Let’s go!

Need a Place Quick? Here’s the Best Neighborhood in Tokyo:

These are the best places to visit in tokyo, faq on the best places to visit in tokyo.

While Tokyo can be very expensive , there are still great accommodation options available. From a cool Tokyo hostel to a comfy hotel, here are three great places to stay in Tokyo :

If you like to be near to the Tokyo places to visit, Shinjuku is often said to be the city’s tourism heart and soul. Skyscrapers make for a dazzling skyline and bright neon lights cannot help but grab your attention.

• Shop till you drop at places like Odakyu, Lumine, Beams Japan, and Takashimaya Times Square.
• Stroll around the old-world area of Golden Gai.
• Go bar hopping in Kabukicho.

When you’re backpacking around Japan your first stop has gotta be the crazy capital of Tokyo!

There’s a lot to do here so you’re going to need to plan your trip and pick the Tokyo tourist attractions you really want to prioritise.

PS: Tokyo is a great place to visit in August , unlike many other places around the world!

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#1 – Meji Shrine – One of the Most Religious Places to See in Tokyo

• A working Shinto Shrine where you can take part in traditional rituals.
• You can’t photograph the inside of the shrine, but you’ll get some good shots out of the outside.

Why it’s so awesome : Japan’s religions are quite different from Western beliefs. One of the oldest religious systems in the country is called Shinto, and it’s this religion that allowed Japan to accept and incorporate western influences into its culture while still holding on to its own uniqueness. The Meji Shrine is one of the most important Shinto shrines in the city and is surrounded by a huge park that’s a striking reminder of how well the city incorporates ultra-modern architecture with the natural world.

What to do there: The Meji shrine is still a functioning shrine so make sure you take part in a ritual while you’re there. This is a serene, peaceful area, so refrain from eating or smoking except in marked areas and keep your voice down in respect to the other visitors. Outside of the shrine is a large archway called a Torii. It’s traditional to bow at these gates when you enter and when you leave.

There is also a drinking fountain inside and it supplies water to purify visitors. You can wash your hands, but don’t drink the water or allow the wooden dippers to touch your lips. When you approach the shrine itself, it’s traditional to bow twice, clap your hands twice, make a wish, and bow again. You obviously don’t have to take part in any of these rituals, but it’s a nice way to be a part of this Tokyo landmark rather than just staring at it.

#2 – Tokyo National Museum

• A chance for you to explore the history of this fascinating country!
• The national museum is one of the biggest museums in the country.
• You’ll see everything from samurai swords to Buddhist scrolls at the national museum.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’ve ever been fascinated by the stories of the samurai, kimonos, or unique pottery items, then you’ll find them all at the national museum. It’s one of the biggest museums in the country, with over 116,000 pieces of art, so you’re bound to find something amazing to learn about.

What to do there : While you’re in the museum, make sure you explore the displays that will help you learn about the parts of Japanese culture that are most interesting to you. For most people, this would be the samurai sword display and armor or the kimonos. But take the chance to explore other facets of Japan’s history as well at the national museum. It’s so different from western history and most of the art created throughout Japan’s history is staggeringly beautiful, so don’t miss it.

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#3 – Sensoji Temple & Asakusa District – One of the most incredible places to go to in Tokyo

• Located in busy, local-focused Asakusa, so you can shop and eat while you’re there.
• You’ll get some amazing photos in this area of not only the temple but the incredible gardens as well.
• A popular tourist site that’s still a working temple, so you’ll see people burning incense and praying while you’re there.

Why it’s so awesome : Sensoji Temple looms out of the center of the otherwise modern neighborhood where it lives as if it’s been transported from another time. This is the oldest temple to see while traveling in Tokyo and it’s also the most popular among tourists and locals. Dating back to 628, the temple looks old but was actually reconstructed after its destruction during the Second World War. But you wouldn’t know from being there, as it looks and smells like it’s been soaking up incense for longer than you can imagine.

What to do there: This is actually a functioning temple so be respectful of the locals you see praying and burning incense inside. This temple is a big part of the locals’ most deeply held beliefs and they often come to ask for healing or help. It’s a really crowded landmark, so plan to visit either early in the morning or late at night if you want to avoid the crowds. But apart from that, just wander the site and take pictures from every angle. And when you’re done, take a walk and find somewhere to eat, there are plenty of places nearby to choose from!

#4 – Tokyo Imperial Palace

• The Palace has stunning grounds and you’ll get some amazing pictures.
• It’s still used as one of the homes of the Japanese imperial family.
• There’s a limit to how many people can enter the grounds, so make sure you apply for a ticket rather than just showing up.

Why it’s so awesome : Japanese architecture and their sense of aesthetics are different from anywhere else in the world and they’re both absolutely stunning. The Imperial Palace is a good example of this sense of grace and beauty. And the grounds are no different. Japanese gardens are probably the most stunning in the world, and the Imperial Palace is surrounded by some of the best examples of these gardens that you’ll ever see. You won’t regret adding them to your Tokyo itinerary !

What to do there : This is an important historical site and it’s also the home of the imperial family today, so you’ll need to apply several weeks in advance to get admittance to the site. And you probably won’t be able to go inside the building at all, as these passes are even rarer. But the grounds here are stunning, particularly the East Garden, which is a lush, natural space that’s designed in the traditional Japanese style.

#5 – Odaiba – Cool place to see in Tokyo with friends!

• The entertainment centre of the city.
• Includes enough museums and beaches and other attractions to keep you busy for days, if not weeks!

Why it’s so awesome: Odaiba is a neighborhood set on a mini island in the middle of Tokyo Bay and it’s the center of entertainment, eating, and cool architecture in the city. Whatever type of attractions you enjoy you’ll find here, from museums to beaches, a Statue of Liberty, and amusement parks. Whether you’re traveling with kids, family, or friends, everyone will definitely find something to do here.

What to do there : What do you want to do? If you enjoy trying all the food that Tokyo has to offer, then you’ll find eateries here to satiate every taste. If you enjoy museums, then you should go to the Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation. There are amusement parks where you can ride go-karts and Ferris wheels and you can even go to the Legoland Discovery Center!

Whatever you want to do, you’ll find something here that will suit your taste. And if you have the time, make sure you visit the Ooedo-Onsen-Monogatari, which is a hot springs theme park where you can wear a traditional yukata and relax in a variety of different natural baths. It’s a perfect place to relax after the stress of the city!

#6 – The Ginza – A great place in Tokyo if you love to shop!

• One of the best shopping areas in the city.
• Take advantage of high-end shopping as well as small, quirky shops that sell things you’ll only find in Japan!

Why it’s so awesome : Most cities have one shopping area that dominates over all the others and for Japan, it’s the Ginza. You’ll find big-name shops like H&M, design houses like Armani and Cartier as well as traditional stores that sell all the souvenirs you could ever want to take home. There are also some quirkier choices, such as stores dedicated to buttons and charcoal beauty products, so make sure you check everything out.

What to do there : If you enjoy shopping, you don’t need to be told what to do in this area. Shop until you drop. Make sure you look for souvenirs like kimonos and incense as well if you have people back home you need to buy gifts for. And even if you’re not a big shopper, there’s still a lot to do in this area. There are more than 200 art galleries in the area, some of the best eateries and restaurants, and theatres where you can catch one of Japan’s famous kabuki performances!

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#7 – National Museum of Emerging Science and Technology – Awesome Place to Visit in Tokyo With Kids!

• A place that will prove to you just how innovative and technology-focused Japan is.
• Contains more interactive displays then you could imagine.
• No matter what part of science you’re interested in, you’ll find something fascinating to do here.

Why it’s so awesome : This museum is one of the best in the world and it was born from and highlights Japan’s obsession with technology and innovation. It’s a fun and fascinating place to spend some time in regardless of whether you’re a child or just a big kid, and you could spend hours here exploring every facet of Japan’s interest in technology!

What to do there : if you’re interested in space, try the Explore the Frontiers display, where you can walk into a model of the International Space Station, complete with autographs from history’s most famous astronauts. You can learn about robots in the Create Your Future exhibit, explore an LED Earth sculpture in the Discover Your Earth exhibit or enjoy an educational movie at the Gaia 3D home theater. Basically, this museum will make you feel like a big kid, rushing around too excited to choose just one thing to look at. And recapturing that feeling is amazing on its own!

#8 – Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Tokyo

• A beautiful, natural place in the middle of the city.
• Japan has a talent for including huge swaths of nature in the middle of cities and this park is one of the best examples of that.
• Take photos or just relax and enjoy the scenery!

Why it’s so awesome : Japan is a city that loves technology, skyscrapers, and modern everything and yet the designers of it recognized that nature was vital as well and incorporated lots of amazing parks in the city. The Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one example of that foresight and it makes up for the best day trip in Tokyo . The gardens within are landscaped in 3 different styles, Japanese traditional, French Formal, and English Garden, and exploring these natural surroundings could probably take you a whole afternoon!

What to do there : There is a small entrance fee to this park, but once you’re in you’ll probably want to spend all day there. Make sure you check out the different landscaping styles, and if you’re there in spring, definitely take a picnic and sit out under the cherry trees. This is a traditional spring activity in Japan for a good reason! Mostly, this is a place to sit and relax from the busyness of the city. Take a walk, have a picnic, or find one of the park’s teahouses or eateries and have a snack surrounded by nature.

#9 – Tokyo SkyTree

• You can get a bird’s eye view of the whole city from the top of the Tokyo Skytree
• Getting up to the observation deck requires a ticket to get up the tallest building in Japan
• Walk over the class floor for views the whole way to the ground 1,150-foot (350-m) below!
• See Mount Fuji on a clear day from the Tokyo Skytree

Why it’s so awesome : The Tokyo SkyTree has two observatories that are the highest in the city, so basically, you’ll get the best view of Tokyo when you spend some time in this building. It’s really easy and well organized to get to the top observation deck and despite the 1,150-foot (350-m) height, you’re transported to the top in the super quick lift in no time! On a clear day, you can even see Mount Fuji from the Tokyo Skytree.

It’s possibly the most popular tourist attraction in the city with many tourists visiting each day, so be sure to buy tickets before to make sure you don’t miss out on this epic Tokyo sightseeing experience.

What to do there: One of the biggest draws of the Tokyo Skytree building is the fact that there isn’t a limit on how long you spend at the observation deck. So you can take as many photos as you want and then just relax and take in the views of Mount Fuji with no one hurrying you along. When you’re done with the view, there are some great restaurants on the same floor, so stop in for a meal. For an extra bonus, time your visit to coincide with the sunset for some truly spectacular views and photographs.

#10 – Ghibli Museum

• If you know anything about Japanese animation, this is its home.
• A chance to experience the magic and the mystery of Japan’s unique creative spirit and its most famous dreamer.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’ve ever watched Japanese cinema then you’ve probably seen a movie by Studio Ghibli. They make some of Japan’s most popular and magical animated films including Spirited Away, which won an Oscar for the best-animated movie in 2003. This studio is headed by Hayao Miyazaki and the museum is just as quirky as the films.

What to do there : It’s notoriously difficult to get tickets to see the Ghibli Museum , but if you’re a fan of the movies then it’s worth making the effort because you’ll have a magical visit. Make sure you give yourself enough time to enjoy this informal, unusual museum. There’s a play area for kids that includes a cat bus from one of the movies and a rooftop garden with sculptures of popular characters from the movies.

You should also make sure you see the short film they have featured because it changes every month and you won’t see it anywhere else. Just be aware that this museum doesn’t cater to tourists, so most of the signs are in Japanese, and you might find it a little difficult to find your way around.

#11 – Akihabara – An awesome place to visit in Tokyo for half a day!

• The centre of Tokyo’s tech frenzy!
• A great place to visit if you’re a gamer or interested in getting your hands on the latest technological marvel.
• This area also caters to anime lovers, so if you enjoy this genre then you should definitely explore it.

Why it’s so awesome : This suburb is where you can buy almost any piece of technology or game that’s on the market at the moment. It’s basically street after street that’s dedicated to computers and gadgets. You’ll find gaming arcades, shops that sell anime and cosplay goods, and more neon signs than you could ever read. Also, you can feel like you are in a video game by dressing up and riding the streets in go-karts!

What to do there: If you’re headed to Akihabara to buy something specific, make sure you do your research beforehand. The shops and streets full of tech shops are vast and it’s easy to get lost and walk away empty-handed. Also, be a little careful about bringing young children to the area. Anime culture isn’t all clouds and pretty graphics and it’s quite different to how people in the west think of cartoons. Because this area is dedicated to anime lovers, you may see some of these elements in the streets. And not all of them will be appropriate for very young children to experience.

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#12 – Tokyo Tower

• A great place for a photo op.
• Relaxed, varied dining area on the lower floors where you can pick up snacks from all over the world.

Why it’s so awesome : This building is a landmark. Standing 1,092 feet above the city it actually has a very practical purpose and transmits television and radio over the city. The building was modelled on the Eiffel Tower and it does bear more than a passing resemblance to this famous structure. But the tower isn’t just practical. It has observation decks where you can get a great view of the city and a shopping and restaurant area in the lower sections where you can pick up souvenirs or have a great meal.

What to do there : The Tokyo Tower has two observation decks at different heights, so make sure you go up during the day or night to take photos of the city. They also have guides on these decks who can point out important buildings on the Tokyo skyline. If you want to take in the view and have a coffee at the same time, you can visit the café there or go downstairs to the lower floors. The restaurants in Tokyo Tower are great and there’s also a floor dedicated to stalls selling a wide variety of different snacks and foods from other countries. So if you go there for a meal, you’ll be absolutely spoiled for choice. And it’s all amazing.

#13 – Tsukiji Fish Market – A Must-See For Foodies!

• If you like seafood, you’ll be spoiled for choice in this market.
• World’s largest fish market
• A perfect place for people watching.

Why it’s so awesome : The fish markets in Japan are famous and this is one of the oldest. It shut down in 2018 and then reopened as 2 separate parts. At the original location, you’ll find food stalls that sell a range of seafood dishes and snacks and down the road, you’ll find the other half of the market, known as Toyosu Market, which has some of the best sushi bars in the city.

What to do there : Eat seafood! You’ll find the freshest seafood you’ve ever eaten in this market and also some of the most inventive dishes. Try the seared tuna, sushi or squid ink sticky buns if you’re feeling adventurous. And other than that, make sure you wander around. The fish market draws locals from all walks of life, and it’s fascinating to watch an event that’s so integral to everyday life in Japan.

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#14 – Shibuya Crossing

• One of the most iconic and photographed sites in Tokyo.
• If you’re looking for that defining photograph of Tokyo, you’ll be able to take it here.

Why it’s so awesome : Tokyo is one of the most crowded cities in the world ( yet still so safe! ) and that makes the Shibuya Crossing one of the busiest crosswalks in the world too. It’s actually really fascinating to watch. The lights change and suddenly people are walking from every direction, a crowd of crisscrossing shoppers, students, and men in business suits. Go at dusk to get the best light for pictures.

What to do there : The Shibuya Crossing is located in the centre of a busy city street and it’s surrounded by flashing neon lights and shops of every description. It’s the perfect place to people watch, so pull up a café chair, or just sit on one of the benches around the area and watch the controlled madness. Step out of Shibuya station for instant organised chaos!

There are also a lot of good restaurants and eateries in the area, so when you’re done make sure you stop for a snack.

#15 – Nezu Museum

• A temple of traditional Japanese Art.
• The artworks inside the building are stunning, but the building itself and it’s garden are just as amazing.

Why it’s so awesome : Spread over 40,000 feet, the museum contains more than 7,400 pieces of traditional and contemporary Japanese art. But it isn’t just the artwork inside that’s incredible. The building itself was redesigned by acclaimed architect Kengo Kuma and it manages to convey age, grace, elegance and welcome all at once, which makes it really worth the experience.

What to do there : This museum is a study in contrasts. It covers more than 40,000 feet and yet by some wonder of architecture, it still feels welcoming and intimate. You won’t find the cold, almost anesthetic feel of some museums in this building. Instead, it welcomes you to stay and enjoy the traditional art, so follow your impulses and take your time. And make sure you check out the outer areas too. The museum has a private garden that’s just spectacular.

#16 – Ryoguku Kokugikan

• You’ve got to experience sumo wrestling in Japan!
• There are 3 sumo tournaments a year at this site, drawing more than 11,000 fans.

Why it’s awesome : Sumo is a big draw in Tokyo, and you might be surprised by how popular it is among the locals. There are 6 official sumo tournaments in Japan every year, three of which are held at this location, and the tournaments themselves last for weeks. Obviously, this means that there can’t be tournaments all year round, which is why this venue holds other sporting competitions like kickboxing too. But if you’re in Tokyo when there’s a sumo tournament on, it’s really worth seeing.

What to do there : Sumo is an iconic and much-loved sport in Japan. So, if you get the chance, buy a ticket and attend one of the matches. Not only is it a uniquely interesting sport to watch, if slightly unusual to western minds, but it’s also exciting to be among the crowd as the locals cheer on their favorites and get swept up in the challenge and competition.

#17 – Yoyogi Park – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Tokyo

• A park for the active traveller, where you can take part in any sport under the sun.
• Walking distance from Harajuku Station
• The perfect place to hang out in nature and get away from the city.

Why it’s so awesome : Japan has some amazing parks and Yoyogi Park is one of the best. It’s 134 acres just a short distance from Shibuya and is always full of picnickers and performers. There is always something going on in this park. It’s probably the only place in the city where you can see people playing badminton, the banjo, and amateur dancers all in one area.

What to do there : This is a park where you can relax, sit back, and enjoy yourself. Take a picnic or grab some snacks from a nearby stall and watch the performances. In the northern areas, long walkways stretch across lush lawns, so get some exercise and breath in the sweet-smelling air. Or just wander and explore whatever takes your fancy, it’s all up to you. It’s easy to reach being within walking distance of Harajuku Station.

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#18 – Ueno Park

• A huge and stunning natural area with lots to do.
• Close to Ueno station.
• You’ll find everything from museums to grave sites and statues in this area.

Why it’s so awesome: Tokyo has a lot of amazing parks and Ueno Park is one of the most popular among the locals. No matter what time of day you go there you’ll find school kids in large groups chattering their way along the path, older locals playing games, and workers eating their lunch. This is where a lot of the locals in Tokyo go to take a breath of fresh air and enjoy the quiet. And if you need this during your holiday, then Ueno Park is the perfect place to get it.

What to do there: Ueno Park is the perfect place to relax, take in the scenery, and pretend you’re not in a big city at all. You can wander from museum to museum, explore the shady, dappled walkways, take photos next to the grave sites of samurai’s from another time, or just sit on a bench and relax near a water feature. Basically, if you need restoration and quiet, this is the place to get it.

#19 – Origami Kaikam

• A chance to see one of the most familiar Japanese art forms in the world.
• You really won’t believe  what people can make  with a simple piece of paper!

Why it’s so awesome : This is a shop and an art gallery in one. There are several floors in this building, with a shop on the ground floor, an art gallery on the second, and a workshop at the top that all explore the art of origami. You’ll not only see the familiar crane shape, but you’ll also see some creations that might seem impossible! The art rotates seasonally, so if you visit more than once, you’ll experience something new every time.

What to do there : When you visit this site, you don’t just have to look at the paper creations, you can also learn to make them as well. There are classes on-site as well as specially dyed paper, so get involved and make your experience that much richer.

#20 – Tokyo Station

• Tokyo station is a historic building.
• Great shopping area, particularly if you’re looking for souvenirs.
• Some of the best fast food options in the city are in this building, and they’re  far healthier  than western fast food options too!

Why it’s so awesome : It might sound strange to say that a trip through a train station can be an awesome experience but this is Japan, where nothing is as you might expect. Tokyo Station is a historic icon that’s a symbol of Japan’s rush to modernize. It’s over a hundred years old and is home to a huge variety of shops and restaurants. That’s what makes it the perfect place to spend some time before and after your trips out of the city.

What to do there: You can take a tour through the station if you like but you can also explore it on your own. There are a huge variety of shops within the building as well as some food stalls that serve famous Japanese snacks. Visit the Tokyo Ramen Street inside the station to try a wide variety of ramen types all in one handy location.

#21 – Kabuki-za Theatre – A Great Place to Visit in Tokyo at Night

• This theatre has been destroyed and rebuilt a number of times, but it’s still a historic landmark and home to great kabuki shows !
• There’s also a gallery on the fifth floor with costumes and other related exhibits.

Why it’s so awesome: This theatre was first built in the late 1800s, but war and fire, and other disasters have destroyed it repeatedly throughout time. The most recent incarnation was built in 2013, which proves just how important this art form is to Japanese culture. Kabuki is a form of Japanese theatre that uses song and dance as well as highly dramatized language and actions to convey stories. The plays can be historical dramas, more contemporary stories, or dance pieces.

What to do there : This theatre has shows running constantly so make sure you get a ticket while you’re in the city. You don’t even have to sit through a whole play if you aren’t sure if you’ll like it because there are single-act tickets that you can buy at the door. Make sure you have a look at the souvenir shop afterward for some awesome gifts or trinkets that are sure to raise eyebrows back home.

#22 – Ueno Sakuragi Atari

• A historic and fascinating look at old Japan.
• If you’re interested in history, you’ll get some great shots in this area, which looks like it belongs to a previous age.

Why it’s so awesome : This area contains 3 traditional houses that were renovated into one complex. They now contain stores, houses, and workshops, all of them eclectic and cunningly fit into such as small area. You can have a craft beer in a bar that looks like it came straight off the set of a Japanese film and eat bread in an eclectic bakery. Basically, this area is like a small town all in 3 buildings, and you’ll get some amazing travel photos while you’re there.

What to do there : Just explore. The design of this building is eclectic and it has a lot of nooks and crannies where there are shops and stalls that you wouldn’t expect. And they have great seasonal events too, including beer festivals and tea ceremonies, so check their website before you go to see what’s on.

#23 – Rainbow Bridge

• The city’s most famous bridge.
• It looks amazing in the day, but it’s even better at night when it lights up.
• Make sure you get lots of photographs!

Why it’s so awesome : The Rainbow Bridge crosses Tokyo Bay and looks like its name. It manages to carry cars, people, and the Metro across the river and look spectacular at the same time, which you can really say about too many bridges. It’s particularly awesome at night, when it lights up with the spectrum of the rainbow, making it look exactly like its name promises.

What to do there : The bridge carries cars, the Metro and people across the water, so if you want to get the full experience then walk over the bridge to Odaiba. The views of the bay and the different parts of the city are amazing in the daytime. But make sure that you find a good spot to see it at night as well because the lights are truly spectacular.

#24 – Ninja Akasaka

• Perfect for a fun night out with friends.
• Great food, served in surroundings that are reminiscent of an ancient Japanese castle.

Why it’s so awesome : Everyone likes ninjas but nobody really thinks of them in connection with food and yet that’s exactly what you’ll get in this restaurant. This is a fun, quirky place to have dinner while ninjas jump around and bring you dishes in a building that’s designed to look like the interior of a Japanese castle. It’s a great place for a fun night out, as only Japan can do it.

What to do there : This restaurant serves Japanese food with western tweaks, but the real draw is the ninjas who serve the food, bring the menu, and jump out unexpectedly at you. Make sure you check on the showtimes for the magician as well, as this will add another layer of fun to an already interesting night.

#25 – teamLab Planets – One of the most amazing places in Tokyo!

• Tokyo’s hottest art show.
• Technology and art combine here for an experience you’ll never forget.

Why it’s so awesome : This show opened in 2018 in Odaiba and is a digital art museum created by a technology group called teamLab. There are more than 60 artworks on display and they’re all interactive so you can touch and disrupt. Actually, you’re encouraged to do so, because your participation is part of the art!

What to do there : There are five sections in this art display so make sure you spend time with each one. And don’t just look either, touch and explore and see what happens! You’ll be surprised by the reaction. Also, make sure you check out the Sketch Aquarium, where you can draw your own image and watch as it starts moving across the walls!

#26 – Nonbei Yokocho

• Japan’s bar alley where you can get a drink in atmospheric surroundings.
• The perfect place for a night out.

Why it’s so awesome : This is a tiny and untidy alley filled with tiny bars, many of which only fit four or five people at once. The area dates back to the 1950s and since then the alley has been filled with eateries and yakitori shops, all of them close to the Shibuya station .

What to do there : Spend time exploring the alleys and try the eateries. The eatery known as Okasan is particularly popular. It’s a no-frills place that serves traditional meals and has been popular in Japan for generations. Also, if you can fit into any of the bars, make sure you grab a drink too and really get the most from the experience. This is a great area to indulge in some proper Japanese food.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Tokyo

What should you not miss in Tokyo?

Shinjuku is the bustling heart and soul of Tokyo and it’s exactly what you came to see! Where the old and the new collide in a complete sensory overload!

What is the coolest place in Tokyo?

It’s got to be Akihabara , the tech center of Tokyo and the Japan of your dreams!! Endless fun awaits in Electric Town!

What are the best places to visit in Tokyo at night?

Head up to the iconic Tokyo Tower and take in the bright lights of the city at night from above!

What are the best places to visit in Tokyo during winter?

Head inside the Ryoguku Kokugikan for some sumo action, it’s sure to heat up during these intense battles!

Japan can be an expensive place, but don’t let that stop you from spending some time in this city, because it’s absolutely worth the money. It’s one of the most interesting cities in the world and offers all the best parts of Japanese culture as well as the most incredible food you’ll ever eat.

Visit the amazing places in Tokyo we’ve discussed have the trip of your dreams. But don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path, too. This city is like another world–get to know it while you’re here!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Tokyo   Travel Guide

19 Essential Things to Do in Tokyo + Neighborhoods to Visit

With more than 13 million residents to entertain, Tokyo has a lot going on. Start your morning off with breakfast sushi at the world-famous Tsukiji Outer Market , then let yourself get lost in Japan's vast and interesting history at the Tokyo

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Just to the west of downtown Tokyo lies a gorgeous urban oasis. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden comprises 144 acres of green space and is unique in that it incorporates three landscaping styles – Japanese traditional, French formal and English garden. During the spring, the park gets an extra boost in visitors for its vibrant display of cherry blossoms. If you plan on visiting during this beautiful time, make like a local and come to the park equipped with picnic supplies. Autumn is another popular time to visit thanks to the bright fall foliage, which usually peaks between mid-November and mid-December.

Travelers say the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. Even if you don't have a couple hours to spare for a picnic, visitors say a short stroll is enough to take up the park's peaceful atmosphere. Travelers also report that there are plenty of amenities within the park, including restrooms, places to eat, as well as a greenhouse and teahouse.

Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa free

The oldest religious site in Tokyo is also its most visited. The Senso-ji Temple sees about 30 million annual visitors and its inception dates all the way back to year 628. Despite its claim to antiquity, however, the structures that currently stand are relatively new reconstructions of previous edifices (during World War II, nearly the entire temple was razed). The Senso-ji Temple is dedicated to Asakusa Kannon, the Buddhist god of mercy and happiness. According to legend, two fishermen struck gold and found a statue of the god while fishing on the Sumida River. The Senso-ji shrine is dedicated to this lucky catch and features a small homage to the fisherman who caught the statue. Unfortunately, while here, you won't be able to see the actual statue. It is there, but it isn't on public display (it never has been). Either way, Buddhists and interested tourists alike flock to this attraction with the hopes that being in the presence of Kannon's healing powers will rub off on them. After you've properly toured Senso-ji, take some time to check out the shops that line Nakamise Dori, which you'll find on the way to the temple. 

The majority of travelers enjoyed their experience at the Senso-ji Temple, with some saying a visit to Tokyo isn’t complete until make a stop here. Visitors found the temple to be beautiful and enjoyed admiring its grand stature and intricate architectural details. The only complaint among travelers was with the attraction and all the activity surrounding it; Senso-ji can get so crowded that it can be difficult to be able to simply admire the attraction. If you don't want to share space with throngs of tourists, visitors suggest coming early morning or late at night. 

Meiji Shrine Meiji Shrine free

The Meiji Shrine is a Shinto (Japan's original religion) shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Japanese history credits Meiji for modernizing Japan by incorporating Western principles into Japanese society, including adopting a cabinet system into government. After the emperor's death in 1912 and that of his consort in 1914, the Japanese commemorated their contributions with the Meiji Shrine. While the buildings are certainly worth visiting, the surrounding forest (considered part of the vast Yoyogi Park) is a sight to see as well. That's because 100,000 of the trees standing were all donated by Japanese people from around the country as a thank you to the emperor.

While at such a sacred site, take time to partake in traditional rituals. When entering the shrine, you'll first see the Torii , or the shrine's large archway. It's traditional to bow once entering, then again when you leave. To foreigners, the Temizusha may appear to be a drinking fountain, but it's actually a cleansing station where visitors have the opportunity to purify themselves with holy water. It's common to wash your hands and rinse your mouth out, but don't drink the water. When approaching the main shrine, it's customary to pay your respects by bowing twice, then clapping your hands twice and bow once again. Carrying out such respects are optional, the rules of the shrine are not. Don't photograph the interior of the buildings; don't eat, drink or smoke unless you're in designated areas.

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Ueno Park Ueno Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Take a 20-minute walk northwest of Ueno Park to the more than 100,000-square-foot Yanaka Cemetery, the first public burial ground in Tokyo and an oasis of foliage and historical importance. It’s particularly beautiful to visit during cherry blossom season. – Kristin Braswell

Considered the first public park in Tokyo, Ueno is an ideal place for a leisurely stroll in the city. Formerly part of Kaneiji Temple, Ueno Park is now home to the Ueno Zoo (considered Japan's oldest zoo), six museums, a number of shrines and temples, and more than 1,000 cherry blossom trees. During late March and early April, the park’s canopy of cherry blossoms attract visitors from all over the world for hanami parties – which is when people gather under the trees for picnics and socializing. Museums on the grounds include the Tokyo National Museum , the National Museum for Western Art, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum and the National Science Museum. 

Tokyo Tower Tokyo Tower

The Japanese iteration of the Eiffel Tower serves a predominately practical purpose. The orange and white tower, which stands 1,092 feet tall, is a radio and television broadcasting structure supporting 62 miles of frequencies. The tower also caters to tourists, offering two observation decks, one at 490 feet (the main observatory) and one at 820 feet (the special observatory). The observation decks offer 360-degree views of Tokyo's sprawling cityscape and come equipped with placards that point out notable buildings in the skyline. And if you visit on a really clear day, you'll be able to spot Mount Fuji in the distance. The Tokyo Tower also has its own cafe, where patrons can sip tea while admiring the views, as well as Club 333, a music venue that hosts performances daily. And if you're on the hunt for souvenirs, travelers say this is a surprisingly great place to peruse thanks to all the on-site shops.

The best time to visit the Tokyo Tower is at night, according to reviewers. That's because the tower lights up beautifully, and often in multiple colors depending on when you visit. You'll also encounter stunning vistas from atop Tokyo SkyTree, a much taller tower located about 8 miles northwest, but you'll have to combat hordes of fellow tourists. Recent visitors said of the two towers, this one is less crowded.   

Shibuya Crossing Shibuya Crossing free

U.S. News Insider Tip: After the rush of Shibuya Crossing, walk 15 minutes to Cat Street, a pedestrianized stretch with fewer crowds and chic shopping. Pop into TRUNK hotel for a coffee or a cocktail in its popular lobby, which is open to the public. – Kristin Braswell

Behold: a whirlwind of bodies moving somehow in seamlessly concerted motion at Shibuya Crossing – a must-see in Tokyo. The popular pedestrian scramble located in front of the Shibuya Station Hachiko exit is considered the busiest intersection in the world, welcoming upward of 3,000 people every two minutes across its five major crosswalks. The hypnotic waltz under Shibuya’s towering neon buildings is quintessential Tokyo: busy, yet somehow still orderly and seamless. A major transportation hub, Shibuya Station connects the city’s major neighborhoods, including Harajuku and Roppongi. 

Ginza Ginza free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Tucked on an alleyway, Kagari Ramen offers a not-to-miss truffle chicken ramen that people begin to line up for in the early afternoon. Get there early and grab a ticket for entrance.  – Kristin Braswell

New York has Fifth Avenue, London has Bond Street, Paris has the Champs-Élysées and Tokyo has Ginza. The neighborhood is a shopper's paradise, housing all types of storefronts from affordable, big-name retailers, such as H&M and Zara, to upscale design houses, such as Dior, Armani and Cartier. You can also find specialty stores selling traditional items, such as kimonos, incense and chopsticks. There's also a plethora of Hello Kitty products at the Sanrio flagship store located here, as well as all the toys your kid's heart desires at the massive Hakuhinkan Toy Park. 

Tokyo Station Tokyo Station free

An underground maze and city unto itself in Marunouchi business district, Tokyo Station is a major gateway for travelers arriving and departing the city. More than 3,000 trains come through the station each day, making it the busiest transportation hub in Japan. Some of the most popular trains that make a stop at Tokyo station include the JR Yamanote line, which circles through some of the city’s most famous commercial neighborhoods, as well as various bullet trains (called Shinkansen) that transport travelers throughout Japan – from Kyoto to as far south as Kyushu. A terminal on the Yaesu side exit is the stopping point for a number of buses that connect to the rest of the country, as well as Tokyo’s two airports, Haneda and Narita.

If you get overwhelmed in the station, you wouldn’t be the first. Fortunately, there are a number of English-speaking tourist stands that can help you navigate the best way to your destination. These include the JR EAST Travel Service center outside of the Marunouchi North Exit ticket gate, which offers support for international tourists, including directions to exchanging money; it's open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. It’s also a popular location to pick up the Japan Rail Pass, a transportation option sold exclusively to tourists who enter Japan on a temporary visitor visa that provides discounted unlimited rides around the country for a set amount of time. You can learn more about how to purchase the pass and the specific routes and costs here . Other central information centers in Tokyo Station include the Central Corridor and Marunouchi Central information counters, open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. 

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Akihabara Akihabara free

Akihabara is nirvana for techies. Tokyo's premier electronics district, which is also referred to as "Akiba," has gadgets of all kinds found in booths on side streets and main street mega department stores. You'll spot the latest technology on the shelves, which will probably put your equipment to shame. And if you're in the market for hard-to-find bibs or bobs, you're likely to find that here, too. If you're unsure where to start, stop at the larger-than-life Yodobashi Camera store (often billed as the largest electronics store in the world) or stroll along the neighborhood's main street, Chuo Dori, which becomes car-free on Sundays for select hours. In addition to being an electronics hub, Akihabara also caters to serious gamers, anime and manga lovers. Here, you'll find loads of gaming arcades as well as shops and street stalls selling comics and character figurines. You'll also probably spot a few cosplayers casually walking down the street. 

While Akihabara is no doubt unique, recent travelers had mixed reviews about the district. Those who expressed interest in anime loved their visit, saying you can't leave Tokyo without experiencing the world Akihabara has to offer for fans. Those without a greater interest in the subject matter enjoyed the buzzing activity and plethora of neon signage that permeated the area, but ended up growing bored after a period of time. Some were offended by the inappropriate nature of some of the anime culture (think: maid cafes), so this area may not be suitable for all travelers. Visitors solely interested in shopping for electronics felt overwhelmed by the options and recommended researching in advance to maximize your time in the neighborhood. 

Tokyo National Museum Tokyo National Museum

If you're looking to learn a little (or a lot) about Japan's history, the Tokyo National Museum is the place to go. This museum is one of the country's most expansive, housing about 120,000 pieces of art and artifacts that cover the longest recorded history of Japan. Strolling through the halls of its numerous buildings, you'll spot relics such as samurai armor and swords (a traveler favorite), delicate pottery, kimonos, calligraphy, paintings, and much more, some of which are designated as national treasures and “important cultural properties” by the Japanese government. In addition to artifacts from Japan's history, you'll also find pieces from all across the Asian continent, including Buddhist scrolls that date all the way back to the 7th century.

Travelers were impressed with all that the Tokyo National Museum has to offer. Even some who admitted they aren't "museum people" enjoyed the variety of unique artifacts on display. Travelers appreciated that the museum featured English translations, something that some visitors noticed other Tokyo top attractions lacked (like the Ghibli Museum ). Museum goers also say that there is so much to see in the Tokyo National Museum that you probably need an entire day if you want to get through everything. If you don't have enough time to do this (or just don't want to) the best thing to do is get a map of the museum beforehand and pick what you want to do before you venture in. 

Odaiba Odaiba free

Envision a mini Atlantis rising out of the water, conveniently right next to downtown Tokyo. That's Odaiba. This neighborhood and human-made island situated on the Tokyo Bay is a hub of entertainment, eateries and eye-catching architecture, including the futuristic-looking Fuji Television building and the life-size Unicorn Gundam Statue. Some of the area's top attractions include the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation and the relaxing Odaiba Seaside Park, which comes equipped with an artificial beach and Tokyo's own Statue of Liberty (scaled down). 

Along with the Legoland Discovery Center, there’s also the DiverCity Tokyo Plaza and Decks Tokyo Beach facility, which offers lots in the way of dining and shopping in addition to entertainment options. 

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building free

There are plenty of skyscrapers that provide a bird's-eye lookout in Tokyo, including Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree. So what makes the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Tower special? It's free! The nearly 800-foot-tall building houses two observatories (North and South observatory) that are the highest vantage points (at around 660 feet) that you can reach in the city without having to hand over some yen. 

Travelers loved their experience at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building because it was so fuss-free. Free admission, few lines, speedy elevators, helpful customer service and no time restrictions at the top was ideal for travelers who were looking to take their time with the incredible views. The observatories offer 360-degree views of the city and visitors say on a clear day, Mount Fuji is visible in the distance. If you can, travelers suggest visiting at sunset; the transition from day to night, when some say truly Tokyo comes to life, is magical.

Daikanyama Daikanyama free

If you’re looking to recharge in Tokyo, consider Daikanyama, a tree-lined neighborhood with a trendy, quiet side that’s often referred to as Tokyo’s own Brooklyn. Just south of Shibuya, the district is a peaceful retreat from the towering buildings of its neighbors. The pedestrian-only streets are filled with boutique shops, restaurants, small parks, cafes, and the city’s biggest bookstore: Daikanyama T-Site. Plan to spend several hours roaming T-site’s three buildings, which are filled with a collection of books, magazines and music. Then, have a coffee or cocktail at its on-site cafe, Anjin Library & Lounge, which is filled with plush brown leather couches and a number of tables. Log Road is another must-see in the neighborhood. Built on the train tracks of the old Tokyu train line, this outdoor shopping complex features a brewery and a bakery that are housed in wood cottage buildings surrounded by greenery and a number of places to sit and picnic. Daikanyama is also popular for brunch spots like Garden House Crafts and Ivy Place. 

Visitors call T-Site one of the best bookstores they’ve ever visited, reminiscent of a beautifully designed college campus. They call Daikanyama a mix of modern and traditional Japan and recommend visiting Saigoyama Park for a stroll and sunset watching. 

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National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)

The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, commonly referred to as the Miraikan, attests to Tokyo's entrepreneurial spirit and penchant for science and technological innovation. This high-tech museum features a plethora of exciting interactive displays spread across three themed permanent exhibits. In "Explore The Frontiers," visitors can learn about space exploration by stepping into a model of the International Space Station. There's also "Discover Your Earth," where you'll find a large LED-paneled Earth sculpture, as well as the robotics-heavy "Create Your Future" exhibit. Make sure you get an eyeful of Honda's impressive ASIMO robot while here. ASIMO has opposable thumbs, can run, and even kick a soccer ball (as it did with President Obama in his 2014 visit to the museum). Kids will particularly enjoy the displays as they can touch, climb on and play with many of them. The museum also features science workshops for kids, talks from researchers and the Dome Theater GAIA. 

Despite its draw, many travelers offered mixed reviews of the museum. Some reported feeling like kids, amazed at the vast amount of things to learn and do, while other adults said the museum is best suited for children. Some visitors also found the exhibits to be lacking, saying the information provided was very basic. Those who did bring their kids in tow said they had a ball.

Imperial Palace Imperial Palace free

You'd think the Imperial Palace would be mobbed with tourists, but it's not. You can credit the lack of crowds to an application policy, which limits the number of visitors. That's because the Imperial Palace is home to the Emperor of Japan and his immediate family. And before that, it was the residence for some of Japan's most important figures, including Emperor Meiji (credited for modernizing Japan) and rulers during the Edo Period (the time period before Japan was modernized by Meiji). Because of its significant importance in Japanese society, admittance to the site is hard to get (you have to put in your application several weeks in advance) and access inside the actual palace is even more restricted.

As such, most travelers suggest skipping the application entirely (those who went on the tour were disappointed with how little of the palace is open to visitors) and admiring the compound from afar. Visitors also say the East Gardens, which are part of the Imperial Palace complex, are much more of a sight to see. This flourishing green space has plenty of shady spots and open fields, perfect for relaxing. And during cherry blossom season, these gardens are a choice spot for locals looking to enjoy the seasonal foliage. 

Shimokitazawa Shimokitazawa free

A hub for vintage shops, cafes and restaurants, Shimokitazawa continues to gain popularity among Tokyo’s young crowds and students who are drawn to its bohemian energy. Commonly known as "Shimokita," the largely residential district in west Tokyo’s Setagaya neighborhood was once a haven for hippies who migrated to the neighborhood in the 1970s. Today, a network of streets are home to busy cafes, indie cinemas, music venues and tons of thrift shopping. A philosophy called “Shimokita style” embraces reusing clothing and antiques, but also a slower pace to enjoy life. 

Small, independently owned stores are the neighborhood’s pride, with Ocean Blvd. store – just a few steps from Shimokitazawa Station, being a great starting point for thrift shopping. Other popular thrift stores include Chicago, Flamingo and New York Joe Exchange. 

Ghibli Museum Ghibli Museum

Both avid and amateur anime fans love the Ghibli Museum. The museum showcases the work of Hayao Miyazaki's Studio Ghibli – the famous Japanese animation company that produced films like "Spirited Away" and "Ponyo." Don't expect formal, indoor exhibits. The facility's quirky interior design mimics the animation studio. There's also a play area for kids (which comes equipped with a life-size, fuzzy Cat Bus), a reading room full of books recommended by the museum and a rooftop garden that features character sculptures, including the silent robots from "Castle In The Sky." You can even watch a short film that plays exclusively at the museum and rotates each month. 

Considering how difficult it is to secure tickets and the museum's removed location, travelers say visiting this attraction is only worth the extra effort if you're a Miyazaki fan. Devotees loved having the opportunity to get lost in the director's magical world, which many say the museum executed just about perfectly. The only complaint? The expensive gift shop. Even avid fans were disappointed with some of the shop's high prices. English-speaking travelers also warned that English signs and placards are few and far between here. 

Shinjuku Golden Gai Shinjuku Golden Gai

Explore some 200 bars in this narrow maze of alleyways. A remnant of post-war 1950s Tokyo, this district was once a black market that evolved into a number of small, makeshift bars. Today, stretched across six dimly lit streets (called yokocho) in Tokyo’s Shinjuku neighborhood, Golden Gai (which means "golden block") is jampacked – literally – with bars that are ideal for any night owl. Most bars open around 8 p.m., though many don’t get lively until nearly midnight. Be aware that most bars charge an entrance fee for a seat, which is typically around 1,000 yen (about $7). As you roam Golden Gai, your biggest question will be which bar to choose. Start with any themes that may catch your eye, like Albatross, a two-floor Gothic-inspired den that has enough room for small groups, or Happy, a tiny bar that features vintage rock and soul albums. There are a few food options in Golden Gai as well, like a noodle shop called Ramen Nagi, located on the second floor of a wooden house. 

You should be prepared to rub shoulders with strangers, as many of Golden Gai’s bars are only a few feet wide and seat a handful of people. Because bars have limited seating, some may display signs that say “regulars only” or “no tourists,” and it's important to respect that. Don’t worry though, there are plenty of tourist-friendly and English-speaking options to choose from. 

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Tsukiji Outer Market Tsukiji Outer Market free

You don’t have to be a sushi connoisseur to enjoy the Tsukiji Outer Market, which offers an unforgettable experience. Even before Tokyo’s international wholesale fish market – the largest in the world – moved to the Toyosu district in 2018, the Tsukiji Outer Market was a popular place to buy a variety of food and kitchenware. Today, hundreds of different types of seafood are sold here, ranging from basics (like tuna) to the exotic. If all the excitement and bartering starts to make you a little hungry, don't hesitate to grab a bite here. There are numerous sushi stalls and tiny restaurants in the market (Sushi Sei Honten and Sushizanmai are popular spots) that serve fish at their freshest. But if you aren't much of a seafood fan, no matter. There's still something for you here. The market features a few ready-made meal stalls that aren't all seafood-based, including Mosuke Dango, where you'll find sweet dumplings. What’s more, retail stalls selling kitchenware items like knives and tableware also set up shop.

Recent visitors offered mixed reviews for the Tsukiji Outer Market, noting that prices were higher than the original market that moved to Toyosu. If you're not a fan of seafood, or you don't enjoy overstimulating and/or crowded places, visitors say this is not the attraction for you. Travelers say this market is huge and very busy, especially on Saturdays. Those who do enjoy seafood will no doubt be in awe of the vast array of fresh and delectable seafood options available, so much so that reviewers strongly suggest coming hungry as you'll probably end up eating more than you planned. Travelers were also delighted in the market's lack of a pungent, fishy smell. 

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17 Best Things To Do In Tokyo For First-Time Visitors, According To Travelers

I t's no surprise that there is an extensive list of tempting things to do in Tokyo for first-time visitors with such a vast wealth of space and culture to explore in the city. It's the largest metropolitan city on the planet with a population of 37.3 million and one of the world's biggest urban cities according to land area. 

Tokyo, the capital city of Japan , is a city of contrasts. There are opportunities to dive into the local culture at historic temples and century-old markets, along with the chance to feel like you're living in the future with cutting-edge art exhibitions, neighborhoods dedicated to video gaming and anime, and even Japan's version of Disneyland. 

With only a few days to a week in the city, visitors must properly narrow all the possible options to only the very best things to do in Tokyo. Luckily, your search is over. We figured out the best things to do in Tokyo for first-time visitors by tirelessly combing through reviews and Japanese blogs to reveal the city's gems. 

Read more: 22 Underrated Tourist Destinations In Asia To Add To Your Bucket List

Senso-Ji Temple

Sensō-ji Temple is famed for being the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo, dating back to 628. The story goes that over a thousand years ago, a pair of brothers kept inexplicably fishing a statue of the goddess of mercy out of the nearby Sumida River. The temple was later built in the area to honor that deity officially. 

The five-story pagoda's historic esteem and beauty draw in around 30 million visitors to Sensō-ji annually. The colorful, red architecture of Sensō-ji Temple is also a calling card for photographers in Japan. Multiple events are held at Sensō-ji Temple throughout the year, including the Sanja Matsuri Festival and Asakusa Samba Carnival. You can check out the list of annual events on the  Sensō-ji Temple website . 

The temple is also right next to Nakamise Shopping Street in the Asakusa neighborhood. It's one of the city's best places to buy souvenirs and grab snacks. The temple and shopping street are good stops for first-time visitors after landing at the  Tokyo International Airport  because they provide a solid introduction to the city. 

Tokyo Skytree

The Tokyo Skytree is a broadcasting tower that also happens to be the best spot for first-time visitors to access panoramic views of the city. You'll likely spot the Skytree as soon as you touch down in Tokyo because it's by far the highest structure in the city. At 2,080 feet tall, it is the tallest free-standing tower in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records . It features two different observation decks at varying heights to appreciate the lofty perspective over Tokyo. 

The first is called the 1,150-foot-high Tembo Deck, and it has a glass floor to really illustrate to visitors just how high they are inside the Skytree. The second viewpoint is called Tembo Gallery at 1,500 feet high and it enables you to see as far as 43 miles in the distance in every direction. Inside the base of the Skytree, there are tons of shops, restaurants, and even a planetarium and aquarium.

Shibuya is one of the most iconic and busiest areas in all of Tokyo. This Tokyo ward is huge and encompasses popular neighborhoods like Harajuku and Ebisu. It's one of the best places to go for entertainment and nightlife. To get an authentic feel for the organized chaos of Tokyo, first-timers in the city must make an obligatory pilgrimage to Shibuya Crossing. 

The Shibuya Crossing is one of the most famous spots in Tokyo, with hectic crowds of approximately 2 to 3 million people passing through the area every single day. First-timers should move with the herd through the crossing, then head up to Mag's Park Rooftop to snap a photo over the chaotic street. 

After the crossing, there is plenty of other stuff to do in Shibuya. During the day, go shopping at boutique stores, one of the must-do things in Harajuku . In the evening, check out the local nightlife scene at popular teenie Shibuya bars like Tasuichi. 

Tsukiji Outer Fish Market

The early-morning Tsukiji Outer Market has specialized in providing fresh fish to Tokyo for nearly a century. The market is a few blocks long, and strolling through the aisles gives first-time visitors in Tokyo a crash course in Japan's famous food scene. While it is a wholesale market that first gained notoriety for its morning tuna auction, there is plenty of food around for tourists to try on the spot. It's one of the best places to taste raw fish in the form of sushi, sashimi, or kaisendon. 

A few of the most famous dishes and stalls to try while walking around Tsukiji Market include the tamagoyaki from Daisada, kaisendon from Tsukiji Koromo Sushi, and onigiri from Marutoyo. One of the easiest ways to explore everything the market has to offer is by joining a tour with a local guide. For example, this  half-day tour  will take you around Tsukiji Fish Market and the Asakusa neighborhood with food samples. 

Shopping In Harajuku And Akihabara

Shopping or even just browsing the stores in Tokyo is a must. Two of the best spots for the activity are Harajuku and Akihabara. The shopping scenes in these Tokyo districts are very different, but each one reflects a unique facet of Japanese culture that first-time visitors to the city are typically searching for.

Harajuku is located next to Shibuya Station, and it's a hub for the one-of-a-kind, head-turning street fashion scene that emerged from Tokyo. Along Takeshita Street in this district are countless boutique shops, clothing stores, and places to eat. Alternatively, you can wander around Omotesando Hills Mall to do some indoor shopping in Harajuku.

Akihabara, also known as Electric Town, is a solid spot to visit in Tokyo for gaming products, electronics, and anime shopping. Simply walking around the neon-drenched Tokyo neighborhood is enough to entertain any bright-eyed traveler. The stores in Akihabara range from entertaining to odd, with establishments completely made up of toy vending machines and one of the largest Don Quijote stores in Japan. 

Ueno Park is one of Tokyo's many enormous green spaces and has 133 acres of area to discover. It was opened 150 years ago, making Ueno the very first city park in Tokyo and one of the oldest public parks in all of Japan.  It is a particularly good stop for first-time visitors in Tokyo because there are several cultural attractions of the city located within its bounds.

Firstly, six of Tokyo's top museums are inside Ueno Park, including the Tokyo National Museum, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, the National Museum of Nature and Science, and the National Museum of Western Art. The Ueno Park and Zoo are fun stops in the park for families with kids. Finally, there are several temples and shrines inside Ueno Park, such as Shinobazunoike Benten-do, Ueno Toshogu Shrine, and Kiyomizu Kannon-dō Temple.

Ueno Park is also famed for its bloom during the cherry blossom season in Japan, which lasts approximately two weeks in early spring. Around 1,200 cherry trees are planted inside Ueno. During this time of year, the park attracts over 2 million visitors hoping to relax in the romantic scenery and take photos.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

The sprawling 144 acres of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden are located in the heart of Tokyo and are home to around 10,000 trees. It was originally constructed for the imperial family in Japan but was later transformed into a public park. The late 19th-century garden is a lush green escape right in the middle of the city's busiest neighborhoods, perfect for people who need a break from the Tokyo crowds. 

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is made up of three distinct variations of gardens -- Japanese traditional, landscaping, and formal. No matter what time of year you visit Tokyo, the garden is a must-see, but it's 100% necessary if you're in the city during the spring season from March to May. In the springtime, approximately 900 cherry trees cover the entire garden in varying shades of pink, and it's one of the best places to take in the beauty of Japan's legendary cherry blossom season. 

The Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace in the Chiyoda ward is a key piece of Tokyo's history. The palace was initially built in 1457 and has since served as the Japanese Emperor's residence. The palace is surrounded by three pristine gardens; the East Gardens, Kokyo Gaien National Garden, and Kitanomaru Park. Each of the gardens has its own benefits. For example, in Kitanomaru Park, you can rent a boat to take out on the moat near the palace from April to November. 

While visitors aren't permitted in certain parts of the site due to its high-profile nature, they are allowed to wander some of the palace's parks and gardens. It's even totally free to walk around these areas, so it's a great place to visit in Tokyo for budget travelers. The best time of year to visit the Imperial Palace is fall or spring when the flowers are in bloom, or the leaves are changing colors.

teamLab Planets

Teamlab Planets is a fully immersive digital art museum in Tokyo that makes visitors feel like they're stepping into an alternate universe. Teamlab Planets engages all of your senses in a mind-bending way as you explore the four enormous exhibition rooms and two gardens. It's a captivating activity showing first-time visitors the depths of the city's creativity, and you'll definitely want to have your camera handy.

The goal of these exhibits is to make visitors feel indistinguishable from the works around them. At the beginning, visitors take their shoes off, as several of the art installations include a significant water element. Throughout the journey, you wade your way through ankle-deep pools as projected light shows play around you, enter a mirrored room filled with colorful orchards that playfully move around you, and go through other types of otherwordly spaces that are difficult to fully embody in words alone. Many people spend hours stuck in these rooms because of the incredible details of each space.

Memory Lane

Memory Lane is the nickname for a teenie alleyway in the Shinjuku neighborhood lined with places to try authentic Japanese street food. It's located right near the Shinjuku Station's east exit, so it's very easy to reach this hotspot from pretty much anywhere else in the city. 

The best time to visit Memory Lane, also known as Omoide Yokocho, is in the evening. This area is more of a night-time hangout, and you probably won't find as much activity during the day. It's a common after-work hangout for locals because the food and drinks are quite affordable. 

Memory Lane is distinctly cozier than most of the busy, ultra-modern metropolis that is Tokyo. So, it's a good spot for going out on a date or just getting a more authentic feel for traditional local culture. Walking down the street, you'll pass by dozens of vendors selling things like yakitori, BBQ, and noodles. 

Nezu Shrine

Most visitors are familiar with the famous red gates in Kyoto , but there is also a smaller version of this Japanese attraction in Tokyo called the Nezu Shrine. Nezu Shrine was constructed in 1705, making it one of Tokyo's oldest Shinto shrines. It was designed to resemble the Toshogu Shrine in Nikko, and it is also considered to be one of the most aesthetically pleasing shrines in the city by many people because it is surrounded by gardens and fish-filled ponds. 

The best time to visit the Nezu Shrine is the month of April because this is when the annual Azalea Spring Festival is held. During this time, 50 different species of azalea flowers burst into full, colorful bloom, which gives the shrine a particularly charming atmosphere. However, no matter the time of year, the Nezu Shrine is a lovely experience and a must-do for first-time visitors in Tokyo. 

Japanese Tea Ceremony

Attending a Japanese tea ceremony is a fun and engaging way for first-time visitors in Tokyo to dive into the local culture. The practice was initially introduced in the eighth century as a medicine for the rich but eventually became a country-wide activity. Tea ceremonies can last anywhere from 45 minutes to a few hours and involve a mix of entertaining your tastebuds and learning about Japanese history.   

During the ceremony, guests will watch their host go through the process of preparing the tea before enjoying a sweet snack. Once it's complete, the drink will be served in a tea bowl. The processes between individual teahouses can vary slightly, but in general, this is what visitors can expect.  

There are a few different places to go and try out a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony in Tokyo. For example, the tea ceremony at Maikoya in Tokyo is amazing. Maikoya has won the Tripadvisor Traveler's Award five years in a row, and the experience includes an English-speaking guide who will walk you through the history and proper protocol before the magic begins. 

Ryogoku Kokugikan

Sumo wrestling is a major athletic staple in Japan and has even been called the country's national sport. That's why going to a sumo wrestling event at Ryōgoku Kokugikan sports arena is a must for a first-time visit to Tokyo. Ryōgoku Kokugikan was the world's first sumo wrestling stadium, with roots dating back over 100 years, but the current building was opened to the public in 1985. The stadium can fit up to 10,000 people, so expect lots of energy at these sporting events. 

There are three national sumo tournaments held at Ryōgoku Kokugikan throughout the year, which take place in January, May, and September. Each season is around two weeks long, with several matches throughout this time period. There is a fairly good chance of being in Tokyo for a match around these months. You can check out the upcoming schedule for sumo wrestling events on the Ryogoku Kokugikan website .

Tokyo Disney Resort

Tokyo Disney Resort is Japan's version of the iconic Disney theme park. It was opened in the 1980s as the very first Disney theme park outside of the United States and has since worked its way up to being one of the most popular amusement parks in the world. At the time of writing, Tokyo Disney Resort is the third most-visited theme park on the planet, with over a million visitors monthly visitors. Of course, this place is a big hit with families visiting Tokyo, but it can also be an entertaining afternoon for adults. 

The Tokyo Disney Resort comprises two major theme parks -- Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. Tokyo Disneyland is modeled after California's park with a slight Japanese twist on the food and attractions. Here, you'll find Disney-themed culinary delicacies like stormtrooper mochi, melon bread, and sparkling berry and cream cheese tapioca tea. 

On the other hand, DisneySea is unlike any other Disney park on the planet (literally) because it's the only one of its kind. As the name suggests, DisneySea is devised around ocean legends, and it features themed areas like a futuristic marina called Port Discovery and Lost River Delta, modeled after the ruins of an ancient civilization. 

Rainbow Bridge

The Rainbow Bridge is a key element of Tokyo's skyline and a landmark of the city. Visitors can use this bridge to cross from mainland Tokyo to an artificial island called Odaiba. One of the reasons that this suspension bridge has become such an iconic site in Tokyo is that every night, it goes aglow with colorful solar-powered lights that are usually green, pink, and white. However, the bridge's lights turn rainbow during special events, hence the nickname. 

It's possible to go across the bridge by car or on foot to reach Odaiba. It takes approximately 30 minutes to walk across the Rainbow Bridge. The footbridge closes at 9 p.m. in the summer and 6 p.m. in the winter. Walking along the bridge, you'll be able to spot other well-known Tokyo sites, such as Tokyo Tower. When the weather is sunny, you may even be able to see all the way out to Mount Fuji. 

Kabuki is a traditional expression of Japanese theater that has been enjoyed since the 17th century. The art form is distinguished by its use of eye-catching, elaborate costumes and dramatic performances. Watching a kabuki show is an excellent way for first-timers (and frequent visitors) in Tokyo to spend an evening. 

One of the best places to experience this style of performance is at Kabuki-za in the Ginza neighborhood of Tokyo. This traditional kabuki theater has been putting on performances since 1889. It's not just the show itself that's incredible at Kabuki-za; it's also the architecture of the theater itself. 

The layout of the theater is designed to ensure that every one of the 2,000 seats has a clear view of the stage. The theater is also very tourist-friendly, with helpful staff. Whether it is your first time in Tokyo or you are a veteran of the city, a night at a kabuki show is a fabulous experience.

Gotoku-Ji Temple

Any travelers in Japan who need a little extra luck on their side should pay a visit to the Gōtoku-ji Temple, located around 30 to 40 minutes away from the city center of Tokyo. At Gōtoku-ji Temple, you'll be surrounded by thousands of those inexplicably wise white cat statues. According to legend, there will also be a lot of luck in the air. 

The story goes that a lord was coaxed into a temple by a cat waving their paw at him just before a thunderstorm, and he took the furry friend as a sign of good fortune. In 1633, the Gōtoku-ji Temple was constructed in honor of the lucky cat to hopefully tether its power to the location. To this day, people go there to pray for good fortune in their lives.  

This particular Tokyo attraction is a bit removed from the city's other main attractions. However, it's still not too tricky to reach Gōtoku-ji Temple. The temple is open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and can be reached via public transportation by taking the Odakyū line from Shinjuku Station.

Methodology

The rankings in this article were concluded based on in-depth research into the most visited, popular, and unique tourist attractions in Tokyo, Japan. Several aspects were considered in deciding which attractions would make the list, including the number of visitors per year, the historic and cultural significance, and the overall entertainment value for visitors. 

First, we determined the best things to do in Tokyo by browsing current blogs about Japan and online travel forums to find contending options. Then, we dug deeper into these highlighted activities by reading reviews from authentic, recent visitors to determine which attractions actually lived up to the hype. Finally, we collected the most iconic and most-loved things to do in Tokyo onto this list.  

Read the original article on Explore .