Tokyo is one of the largest and most energetic cities in the world which provides the guests with the experience of a contemporary city with a deep history of tradition. There could be so much to look for that selecting the best destination could sometimes be a daunting challenge for anyone new to the region. Profound temples and gardens, commercial zones, and pulsating neon-lit entertainment districts are some of the sights that give a rich experience to a visitor in Tokyo. Below, we have outlined the ten places and areas that you cannot afford to miss when you are in Tokyo to enhance your experience.
This is a major Shinto shrine located in the middle of a dense evergreen forest and is a good place for respite from the city’s rigors. Stroll through the rough terrains of the forests to find the largest trees, then go to a large main building and a sacred tree. Thus, do not forget to also buy locally crafted items that are sold by vendors near the approach to the shrine. As a great example of the beautiful Japanese landscape and construction, Meiji Jingu is among the best places to get a taste of Japan’s history and tradition.
Asakusa is one of the most famed places in Tokyo and being an important historic site, it still retains the flavor of old Edo. Go to Senso-ji Temple where there is a giant red lantern and numerous small shops offering souvenirs and various yummy Japanese munchies. Do not forget to take some shots before the Kaminarimon Gate with a giant red lantern made out of paper. The walkways are rather tiny, which is ideal for strolling with snacks and drinks in hand and souvenir shopping.
Ueno Park is still a natural park with a beautiful landscape and also central cultural amenities such as the Ueno Zoo and Tokyo National Museum. During spring, the park again reproduces the scenic beauty with cherry blossoms that attract lively parties of flower gazers called hanami. Significant landmarks include the Kaneiji Temple built in the 17th century and the Toshogu Shrine for the shogun Tokugawa. It contains traditional teahouses as well as art galleries and there are a lot of places to sit, relax and people watch; this is representative of Japan.
While the inner wholesale seafood market has shifted, its outer retail markets and restaurants in Tsukiji ensure that it remains one of the best places to visit in Tokyo. The shops provide sushi as well as seafood that is some of the freshest in the city and the restaurants provide some of the tastiest sashimi in the city. To have a jump start, there is always the option to be at the market by 5 in the morning to see the massive tuna auctions. It is recommended to taste warm tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet) and ramen, which are served for breakfast in the food stalls of a local market.
The American-style glass towers occupied with flagship stores and the mere vibrant lighted fronts of the emporiums such as Mitsukoshi make Ginza one of the most affluent shopping districts globally. The courteous attendants provide a very classy shopping experience ranging from electronic shops, and designer outfits to exotic foods. Especially at night, the neon lights of the Ginza illuminate the sidewalks well, so it is wonderful to take a walk before going to a tiny sushi bar and enjoy sake on the backstreet.
At night this place comes to life as Shinjuku, Tokyo’s most popular nightlife is rich in neon lights, colorful, and vibrant. You can climb up to a bar, which is located on the roof of a building to try some cocktails and to enjoy the view of the skyscrapers area after that walk through the tight laneways located underneath. From diminutive yakitori shops hidden behind beverage dispensers to jazz clubs and karaoke boxes, Shinjuku boasts all kinds of establishments and the entertainment district is active until the break of dawn.
The avant-garde youth culture and fashion district in Paris is the Left Bank and the Bohemian district in London is Camden Town while the Japanese equivalent of the two mentioned cities is Harajuku. On each Sunday, several local teenagers can be seen parading along Takeshita Street with the famous visual kei outfits as well as lolita looks and other shocking outfits. The shopping facilities are very diverse and you can find everything from punky accessories to unique new wave-look clothes that can be bought nowhere else. For the chocoholics, indulge in Inception’s melt-in-your-mouth thin crepes and the café’s decadent kawaii sweets.
These famous parks, which are located in central Tokyo and belong to the imperial family of Japan, represent attractive green areas in the middle of the city. Visit the actual remains of the stone walls and moats of Edo Castle as well as tour through a beautiful and meticulously planned landscape garden, interspersed with carp ponds, bridges, and the vestiges of watchtower and other fortification structures from the distant past. Nothing could be as good as them as they are free and mostly not as crowded as other places of interest.
1: Odaiba Island This artificial island in Tokyo Bay may look strange and sci-fi but is one of the most family-friendly areas in Tokyo. Legoland Discovery Center Tokyo deals with Lego brick creations related to life and environment and on the other hand, Miraikan (the National Museum of Emerging Science & Innovation) has Robots and Technological models. Other attractions such as the parks by the sea, modern malls, and the Lindstaaten, a miniature of the Statue of Liberty also contribute to making Odaiba the embodiment of Tokyo’s fascination with pop culture and the future.
This is unlike any other place in Tokyo as Roppongi Hills is one of the most modern places with shopping that starts early morning with active nightlife in the evening while Mori Art Museum is an interior garden that is classical with the traditional flavor of Tokyo. Being the final stop for the observation decks that offer the city views, familiarize yourself with the reasons why this area is known to be the most international district of Japan. It bursts with expatriate havens, clubs playing electronic dance music, gourmet eateries that combine multiple types of cuisine, and quite literally countless galleries. Roppongi provides an answer to how it got its nickname – the city that never sleeps.
And that’s where Tokyo comes in: the world’s most futuristic city and yet the one that has preserved the most vestiges of ancient Japan; the city where technology and tradition blend in perfect harmony. Here are the checklists of 10 spots among some you just have to visit to get the most out of this fabulous megalopolis. Whether it’s to embark on a history, a walking tour that will take you back to the Edo period, go shopping for the weirdest clothes ever, or go out partying the night away, Tokyo has it all.
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Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Tokyo
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer pleasant weather and beautiful cherry blossoms or autumn foliage, respectively. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is cold.
How many days do I need to explore Tokyo?
To see the main attractions, 5-7 days is recommended. However, to fully immerse yourself in the city's culture, consider staying for two weeks or more.
Is Tokyo safe for tourists?
Tokyo is generally considered one of the safest cities in the world, making it a great destination for solo travelers and families alike.
What is the best way to reach this place?
Tokyo has an excellent public transportation system, including the metro and trains. You can easily reach most places by public transport.
Are there any nearby restaurants or cafes?
Tokyo offers a diverse culinary scene. You'll find plenty of dining options near most attractions.