Tokyo Attractions
Tokyo truly offers a unique experience with its blend of modern and traditional, old and new and east and west. Popular Tokyo attractions include the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, Senso-ji temple in Asakusa, Ginza shopping district and the modern areas of Shibuya and Shinjuku.
Tokyo Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace in Tokyo is the official home of the Japanese imperial family. It is Located in Chiyoda, in the centre of Tokyo, and takes up 1 square kilometre of Tokyo’s very crowded land mass. Visitors are welcome to wander the palace’s beautifully kept outer (east) gardens throughout the year (closed Mondays and Fridays)
Asakusa, Senso-ji Temple
Asakusa and more specifically sensoji temple, is one of Japan’s most popular tourist attractions and a good place to get a taste of old Tokyo. Wandering the Nakamise market stalls leading up to senso-ji temple is a fun experience and a good opportunity to grab a souvenir to two. Sample some of the food on offer, in particular the senbei (rice crackers) and ningyoyaki are a must try.
Harajuku, Meiji Shrine
To sample a slice of Japan’s youth and pop culture, take a wander around Harajuku where you’ll find street performers, ‘gothic nurses’, a Hello Kitty shop and boutique labels. Then, to view one of Tokyo’s finest and most popular shrines, simply turn the corner and stroll through the pleasant Yoyogi Park to Meiji Shrine.
Tokyo Museums, Ueno Park
Many of Tokyo’s major museums can be found in Ueno around Ueno Park, including the Tokyo National Museum, National Science Museum and National Museum of Western Art. The best time to visit Ueno Park is in spring, during cherry blossom season, for an afternoon of Hanami (flower viewing). While at Ueno Park, visit the Ueno Zoo and the resident pandas.
Ginza
If you love shopping, you'll love Ginza. Lined along Ginza's main streets are some of the world's leading brands and department stores. If you’re not into shopping, Ginza still has a lot to offer. Pay a visit to the Sony building where Sony's latest products and prototypes are on display or discover Ginza's side street art galleries, cafes and famous bakeries.
Kamakura
A visit to the once (albeit brief) capital of Japan, Kamakura, is a an easy 1 hour trip out of Tokyo. Kamakura easy to navigate on foot and any good tourist map will outline a walking trail that takes in all Kamakura's shrines and temples that are dotted around the area.
Tokyo Disneyland
Tokyo has an array of fun attractions; it’s not all about dazzling shrines and museums. Kids will be particularly happy here as there are a number of theme parks, including Tokyo Disneyland and the adjacent Disney Sea. You can even stay overnight at Tokyo Disney Resort.
Shibuya
Shibuya’s nightlife, restaurants, and endless fashion stores and department stores attract thousands of visitors to area daily. Love it or hate, Shibuya is a must see while in Tokyo.