Top 5 Places to Visit in Tokyo
Tokyo is a very modern city that is full of exciting places to visit. Whether you’re travelling with your family or want to get out and about in nature, there’s something for everyone!
One of the best ways to experience Tokyo is to take a guided tour. These tours are fun, informative and allow you to discover some of Tokyo’s hidden gems!
Akihabara
Akihabara is a buzzing entertainment hub famed for its electronics retailers. It is also home to manga, anime, and otaku culture.
The best way to experience the deep Otaku side of Akihabara is to join a half-day guided tour. Magical Trip’s popular “Anime and Gaming Adventure Tour in Akihabara” will introduce you to some classic and hidden Otaku spots along the way!
The area has many theme cafes, including Maid Cafes, where women dress up as maids for patrons. These are a bit of a strange addition to the area, but they are super popular!
Meiji Jingu Shrine
A shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife Empress Shoken, it’s a great place to learn about Japan’s indigenous religion, Shintoism. It’s also a popular destination for wedding ceremonies.
Located in the heart of Tokyo, Meiji Jingu is easy to reach from a number of subway stations. Harajuku, Kita-sando, Yoyogi and Sangubashi are all nearby.
The shrine is also home to a large forest, which was created by planting trees that were donated from across the country. These include 365 types of pine, as well as cypress and cedar.
Mt Takao
Mt Takao is one of the most popular Tokyo tourist attractions. With stunning views and lots to see, it’s the perfect place to visit for a fun day out.
You can enjoy nature study trails, hike to the top of the mountain by chairlift or cable car and view the beautiful scenery from the summit. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops to explore throughout the area.
Near the top of the mountain you’ll find the historical Takaosan Yakuoin temple. This temple is a Shingon sect temple and has been protected for centuries.
Ghibli Museum
The Ghibli Museum is an ideal day trip for fans of Studio Ghibli’s iconic animated films. Its unique architecture is inspired by master animator Hayao Miyazaki, and the inside boasts whimsical murals, a small theater and an array of mesmerizing exhibits.
The first floor of the museum explains animation techniques, while a small on-site theater shows short movies by Studio Ghibli that are exclusive to the museum. The second floor features special temporary exhibitions. It also has a cafe, children’s play area and a rooftop garden.
Asakusa
Asakusa is a fascinating area that combines ancient Japanese culture with modern day Tokyo life. It is home to one of the most famous temples in Japan, Sensoji Temple, as well as a few unique attractions that will take you back to an earlier time in Japan’s history.
Start your trip with a visit to Sensoji Temple, where you can see the Kaminarimon Gate and the Hozomon Gate. You can also visit the stall-lined Nakamise shopping street, which is perfect for shopping for souvenirs and food.
Ryogoku
Ryogoku is a bustling district in the east of Tokyo, across the Sumida River from Asakusabashi. It’s the spiritual home of sumo and is best known for its Ryogoku Kokugikan, where major sumo tournaments are held.
Its historic district is filled with tiny workshops producing traditional crafts and sumo stables where wrestlers train. Watching a sumo match is one of the most popular things to do in Ryogoku.
Alternatively, you can visit the Ryogoku Fireworks Museum to learn about Japan’s most famous fireworks festival. The museum is also an excellent place to unwind after a day exploring the historical streets of Ryogoku.
Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower is a great spot to visit to see the city skyline, with the two main observation decks offering views of the entire Tokyo metropolis. The Main Deck is 150 meters high and can be reached by an elevator, while the Top Deck is 250 meters above and requires a special tour with prior reservations.
This iconic structure is also renowned for its Shinto Shrine that reaches the highest altitude in Tokyo, where people come to offer prayers to find love, pass their exams or just wish for good luck for the year ahead. You can also walk through the shrine or visit it at night when it lights up to show off its opulent illuminations.
Shinjuku
Shinjuku is one of the busiest areas in Tokyo, and it’s a place to go for shopping, dining, nightlife and sightseeing. It’s also home to the world’s busiest train station and a great destination for families.
There are plenty of shopping options in Shinjuku, from high-end department stores to discount electronics retailers. I recommend BICQLO, which combines the popular Japanese brands Bic Camera and UNIQLO.
