Tokyo is diverse city and the capital of Japan with population of 12 million people. Another 24 million live in the nearest administrative districts. In Tokyo, you can find anything: from crowded avenues, to gardens filled with tranquility and harmony, to the latest generation of technology.
Keep reading this post on best things to do in Tokyo, make sure to visit the most interesting tourist attractions from this list.
1. Imperial Palace
The palace opens the list of TOP attractions in Tokyo. The ancient building was constructed in the 15th century. Imperial Palace is considered the first castle dating back to the Edo period. From the 17th to the 19th century, it was ruled by representatives of the Tokugawa family.
After the overthrow of the shogunate (the military-feudal system of government in Japan), this Japanese castle acquires its current function and becomes the permanent residence of the imperial family. Of course, nowadays, the emperor of Japan is endowed with only formal power.
However, the Japanese are very respectful of their traditions. Until now, both the ruler himself and his wife are among the most revered people.
As for private quarters, they are guarded and forbidden to visit. However, travelers have access to a rather extensive territory of the East Park.
2. Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine is one of the most important shrines in Japan. After the onset of the new year, more than 3 million pilgrims come here every year to say the first prayer of the year. The temple was built in 1920 in honor of the first emperor of modern Japan, Meiji and his wife Shoken. There is no entrance fee for those who would like to visit the shrine, but please remember about the rules of conduct for tourists in Japan.
3. Sensoji Temple
Sensoji Temple was built back in 645 and is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. It is located in the Asakusa area, literally a minute’s walk from the station of the same name. Its gates, which were called the symbol of Asakusa and Tokyo, gained particular fame. Nearby are souvenir shops where you can buy cool gifts that you can take back home.
4. Koishikawa Korakuen
One of the most beautiful and oldest gardens in Tokyo. It was built during the Edo period (1600 – 1867), its many paths meander between trees, ponds, streams.
This park can be visited at any time of the year, but it is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season in Japan, as well as during the autumn leaf fall. This is a great place to be in silence and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. Entrance fee is 300 JPY.
5. Tokyo Skytree Tower
At the moment, the tallest building in Japan – 634 meters high. There are observation decks at the height of 350 and 400 meters with stunning panoramic views of Tokyo.
6. Akihabara area
Akihabara street is the main shopping area of the city. It is also the heart of IT industry and well known for anime art.
If you’re a real fans of anime, it’s a must-visit place for you. After all, you can go to a restaurant or cafe where you will be served by your favorite cartoon characters and characters from manga comics.
At the quite affordable price you can buy here an ultra-modern items – from a cool smartphone to … a toilet with a set of various functions.
7. Miraikan Museum
National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation well known as Miraikan Museum is popular interactive space devoted to science and technology, it’s also well known for its synoptic broadcasts from different parts of the country. Looking at all this, it immediately becomes clear: light earthquakes happen on a regular basis in Japan.
8. Asakusa
Many cultural sights and famous Tokyo tourist places are located in this area. The quarter was formed in the Edo period, the spirit of that time still reigns there.
Asakusa district in Tokyo is home to the famous Kaminarimon Gate, the bustling Nakamise Street, and many other shrines, temples and parks.
9. Harajuku quarter
Harajuku Street continues the list of must-see attractions in Tokyo. This area is popular with a large number of different shopping centers, modern boutiques and restaurants.
You can buy original goods from Dolce & Gabbana, Prada and other famous brands in local stores.
And also this area is a center of attraction for modern Japanese youth. You can meet extraordinary characters on Harajuku street! Reincarnated characters from Manga comics, idols of musical groups, numerous cosplayers roam here.
10 Tokyo Fish Market
Every day, literally tons of the freshest marine products pass through the fish market in Tokyo (the official name is Tsukiji Outer Market).
Here you can buy ready-made meals, fresh fish, and all kinds of semi-finished products. The fish market in Tokyo is a real paradise for those who cannot live without seafood.
How to get to the market? First you need to get to the Tsukiji Shijo stop, located on the Oedo subway line. The market is within walking distance.
Important Information: The interior of the Tsukiji Fish Market was moved to the Toyosu area in 2018. However, the external market continues to function in the same place. One or more days should be allocated to visit parks in Tokyo, including Tokyo Disneyland .
