Tokyo, Japan’s capital city populated by millions of people, is full of culture, architecture and so much more. Though the city can be very crowded, those crowds translate to a busy and bustling city with no end to adventure opportunities. Travelers often remark on the interesting mix that is the city of Tokyo – the old-fashioned manners and mannerisms of the people contrast with the high-tech gadgets and general modernity that the city is well-known for. Visitors to the city can find whatever they happen to be looking for in Tokyo: If you want to learn about old Japan, you can find that there, and if you’re solely interested in the new and modern Japan, you couldn’t be in a better place. Here are a few top spots you won’t want to miss while you’re in “the capital of the East.” Top 15 Ways to Immerse Yourself in Japan
While Traveling in Tokyo no need to worry about WiFi. There is free Wi-Fi spots available at many train stations, cafes, and public areas. Tokyo is generally considered safe, with low crime rates. However, it’s always wise to take standard precautions with your belongings. Tokyo offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Consider staying in popular areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Asakusa. While Japanese is the primary language, many signs in Tokyo are also in English. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is one of Japan’s most popular and iconic attractions, drawing visitors from around the world. Located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) southwest of Tokyo. It stands at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet) and is the highest peak in Japan. Mount Fuji was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mount Fuji is also renowned for its picturesque beauty. There are numerous vantage points from where you can admire the mountain and capture stunning photographs. The Five Lakes region, located at the northern base of Mount Fuji, offers scenic views of the mountain and is a popular destination for tourists. Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Yamanaka, Lake Saiko, Lake Shoji, and Lake Motosu offer boating in the proper months There are many tours available.
The Meiji Shrine
Located in Shibuya, the Meiji Shrine was dedicated in 1920 and is located inside of a forest that contains more than 100,000 trees representing more than 350 species. The shrine’s two main parts are the Gaien and Naien. Gaien, the outer precinct, is where you’ll find the Meiji Memorial picture gallery, home of a number of murals depicting the life of the Emperor, the National Stadium, and the Meiji Memorial hall, where Shinto weddings are often held. The inner precinct is known as the Naien, where you’ll be able to see shrine buildings and a treasure museum.
Tokyo Tower
Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks, it is one of the most iconic landmarks in Tokyo. Tokyo Tower offers two observation decks where visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The Main Observatory is located at 150 meters (492 feet), while the Special Observatory is situated at 250 meters (820 feet). On clear days, you can see landmarks like Mount Fuji, the Tokyo Skytree, and the Tokyo Bay. Tokyo Tower hosts seasonal events and activities throughout the year. During cherry blossom season in spring, the tower is illuminated with pink lights, creating a stunning backdrop. Fireworks displays and other celebrations also take place around Tokyo Tower during festivals and holidays.
The Rainbow Bridge
Taking the Rainbow Bridge is an awesome way for you to see the Tokyo skyline. This suspension bridge stretches over Tokyo Port. You can get to it by taking the JR Yamanyote Line to the Tamachi stop. Once there, you only have to walk southwest until you reach the Shibura anchorage section of the bridge and take the elevator to the walkway. The pedestrian walkway is free to access, and you’ll have a view of Mt. Fuji, the Tokyo Tower and the Tokyo Harbor.
Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park is the place to go if you’re looking for free entertainment. The grounds are commonly used for rehearsing and practicing, so you can find people playing instruments, dancing, and dressed in costumes. Yoyogi Park is probably one of the world’s best places to sit and people-watch. On Sundays, you can observe performers of music from the American 1950s dressed in poodle skirts and Elvis-inspired garb near the east side entrance. You can visit the cycling center and enjoy the scenic bike path if you’re up for a little physical activity. If you came with a friend, You can rent a tandem bike and explore together.
Castles & Palaces
Castles in Japan underwent their most intensive phase of development in the Sengoku (Warring States) era from the 15th to the 16th century. Built to keep the enemy out, they are elaborate in design and strongly fortified. Their magnificent architecture also served to demonstrate the power of the joshu, or lord of the castle. Tokyo Imperial Palace is located in the heart of Tokyo and is the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan, surrounded by beautiful gardens and historic structures. While the palace itself is not open to the public, you can explore the beautiful East Gardens. Akasaka Palace (State Guest House)was originally built as a residence for the Crown Prince, Akasaka Palace. It is now used as the State Guest House to accommodate foreign dignitaries. Guided tours are available to explore the interior and learn about its history.
Buddhist Temples
If you want to see the typical classical architecture of Japan, there is no better place to go than one of its many Buddhist temples. These temples, with their images of the Buddha, were established for the practice and propagation of the Buddhist religion, which originally came from India. The layout of the temple buildings differs depending on the particular Buddhist sect and the period, and the buildings’ names are also different. The most important buildings in the temple are the main hall (Hondô, Kondô or Butsuden) and the pagoda. Worshippers stand in the outer chamber facing the inner sanctuary, with its images of the Buddha, to pray, pressing their palms together. Senso-ji Temple: Located in Asakusa, it is Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, known for its majestic gate (Kaminarimon) and bustling Nakamise shopping street.
Tea Ceremony
Chanoyu, the tea ceremony, is an aesthetic cult much in vogue in Japan. Introduced in China, it was formalized as a ceremony in the 16th century based on the tenets of Zen, when civil war plagued the nation and samurai sought relief in the stylized ritual as a form of disciplinary training for mental composure. Many Japanese still practice the tea ceremony as a spiritual balance to today’s hectic world. It is also revered for its lessons in elegant manners and etiquette, with many different schools practicing their own style of ceremony. Visitors can experience the tea ceremony, which features a special type of powdered green tea, at several hotels with tea rooms (most notably in Tokyo), at many of Japan’s famous landscape gardens and at tea-ceremony schools.
Dining In Tokyo
Tokyo is renowned for its exceptional food scene, and exploring it through a food tour can be a wonderful experience. Tokyo offers a wide variety of culinary delights, ranging from traditional Japanese cuisine to international flavors. You can savor sushi, ramen, tempura, yakitori, wagyu beef, and a multitude of other delicious dishes. Tokyo’s food tours often take you to off-the-beaten-path establishments that may be difficult to discover on your own. Local guides can lead you to hidden gems, traditional izakayas, family-run restaurants, and bustling markets where you can experience authentic flavors and interact with the locals.
- Sushi: Tokyo is a great place to enjoy fresh and authentic sushi.
- Ramen: Try different styles of ramen noodles, a Japanese comfort food.
- Izakayas: Japanese pubs where you can sample a variety of small dishes.
- Street Food: Don’t miss out on trying street food in places like Harajuku and Asakusa.
Cooking Class in Tokyo
Taking a cooking class in Tokyo is a fantastic way to delve deeper into Japanese cuisine and learn new culinary skills. Tokyo offers a wide range of cooking classes catering to different interests and skill levels. Classes focus on sushi making, ramen, tempura, wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets), and izakaya-style dishes. Some classes also cover broader aspects of Japanese cooking, including multiple dishes or seasonal ingredients. Cooking classes in Tokyo typically provide hands-on experiences, allowing you to actively participate in preparing and cooking the dishes. You’ll learn traditional techniques, use authentic ingredients, and receive guidance from experienced instructors.
Shopping Districts in Tokyo
Ginza is a high-end shopping district with luxury boutiques, department stores, and flagship stores of renowned international brands. Omotesando is known as Tokyo’s Champs-Élysées, lined with flagship stores of luxury brands, designer boutiques, and upscale shopping complexes like Omotesando Hills. Akihabara district is famous for its electronics shops, anime and manga stores, and gaming centers. Tsukiji Fish Market (now Toyosu Market) is one of the world’s largest fish markets and indulge in fresh seafood and sushi. Odaiba is a futuristic entertainment and shopping area with attractions like the Rainbow Bridge, Odaiba Seaside Park, and the teamLab Borderless digital art museum. Roppongi Hills is a modern complex featuring shopping, dining, art galleries, and an observation deck providing breathtaking views of Tokyo. Shibuya offers trendy fashion boutiques, department stores like Shibuya 109, and the Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world. Harajuku offers eccentric street fashion and alternative youth culture, Harajuku offers a mix of unique boutiques and vintage stores.
Weather in Japan
Springtime is from March to May with mild temperatures. It is a bit chilly in March but temperatures get warmer in April and May. Make sure to check out Cherry Blossom Season & Festivals. Summer lasts from June to August and it is hot and humid with temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F) in many regions, particularly in Tokyo. The average high temperature in July ranges from 28°C to 31°C (82°F to 88°F), with occasional spikes above 35°C (95°F). The rainy season is in June and July followed by the heat in August. Fall/Autumn is from September to November and is a popular time to visit outside of the Cherry Blossom season. Temperatures cool down in September and seasons change from October to November, a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Winter lasts from December to February. Northern Japan can get heavy snowfall but Tokyo has the average high temperature in December is around 12°C (54°F), while the average low temperature drops to around 5°C (41°F). January is usually the coldest month in Tokyo. While temperatures may be cooler, winter in Tokyo offers unique experiences such as illuminations, hot springs, seasonal cuisine, and cultural festivals.
Festivals In Toyko
The Obon Festival
A Japanese Buddhist festival that is celebrated in honor of the spirits of one’s ancestors. It is typically celebrated from August 13 to 15, but the dates may vary depending on the region. In 2023, Obon will be celebrated from August 28 to 30. It is a time for Japanese people to return to their ancestral homes and visit the graves of their loved ones. It is also a time for families to come together and celebrate their heritage. During the festival, there are many traditional activities, such as lantern floating, Bon Odori (a traditional dance), and visiting temples and shrines. Lantern floating is a traditional activity that is said to help guide the spirits of the ancestors back to their homes. People float lanterns on rivers or lakes, or they light lanterns and place them on graves.
Sanja Matsuri (三社祭) is one of the three biggest festivals in Tokyo. It is held at Asakusa Shrine every third Sunday of May and lasts for three days. The festival features a parade of floats, mikoshi (portable shrines), and taiko (drum) performances.
Kanda Matsuri (神田祭) is the other big festival in Tokyo. It is held at Kanda Myojin Shrine every year from May 14 to 15. The festival features a parade of floats, mikoshi, and fireworks.
Sumida River Fireworks Festival (隅田川花火大会) is one of the biggest fireworks festivals in Japan. It is held every July over the Sumida River. The festival features a variety of fireworks displays, including synchronized fireworks and water fountain displays.
Tokyo Tower Christmas Festival (東京タワークリスマスフェスティバル) is a Christmas festival that is held at Tokyo Tower every Christmas season. The festival features a Christmas tree, light displays, and a Santa Claus parade.
What to Pack
No matter the season, you should always pack an Electrical adapter, Travel guide, or language translation app, Comfortable walking shoes because Tokyo is a city where you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking. Umbrella no matter what time of year it is. Medications and personal essentials; Sunglasses, A Bag to keep your items in.
Springtime & Fall Packing List: Bring layers to wear such as light sweaters, scarves, cardigans, long-sleeve shirts, light coats, and hats due to the mild weather. A lightweight rain jacket can help with the occasional rainfall. Pants and jeans: Pack a few comfortable and versatile pairs.
Summer Packing List: Lightweight and breathable clothing: Pack light, loose-fitting clothes made of breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to help you stay cool in the heat. To protect against the sun, bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong sun. This is the rainy season, so it’s a good idea to have a compact umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket to stay dry during occasional showers and bring mosquito repellant. A portable fan or handheld mister can help cool yourself down when you’re out and about.
Winter Packing List: Bring layers to wear such as Long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, hoodies, scarves, hats, gloves, thermal tops, thermal leggings heavy winter coats. Pants and jeans: warm pants or jeans to keep your legs protected from the cold weather. Warm socks and footwear; Travel-sized hand warmers.
Etiquette
- Shoes: It’s customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, certain traditional establishments, and even some accommodations.
- Bow: A slight bow is a common greeting and sign of respect. The depth of the bow reflects the level of formality and respect.
- Cash: While credit cards are accepted at many places, having cash on hand is advisable, especially at smaller shops and eateries.
- Politeness: Japanese culture places a high value on politeness and respect. Be mindful of your behavior in public spaces.
- Quietness: Tokyo is relatively quiet in public places like trains and buses. Conversations on mobile phones are usually kept at a low volume.
Some travelers recommend attending a sumo wrestling tournament, and many consider a sushi breakfast at the Tsukiji Fish Market a must. There’s no doubt that whatever activities strike your fancy, you’ll find plenty of them in the city of Tokyo.
Interested in visiting Japan? We suggest allowing at least 3 nights in Toyko and then perhaps combining a visit to Mt. Fuji and Kyoto. If you are interested in a guided trip, Japan tours vary from 10 to 14 days. There are also several cruise lines that include Tokyo, as well as seeing more Japan Cruises such as Royal Caribbean Spectrum of the Seas. Ponant Luxury Yacht Cruises offers several ships sailing in Japan. Princess Cruises has the Diamond Princess offers ports throughout Asia. Need some help deciding, then read Where You Should Travel Based on Your Zodiac Sign.
