There is so much to see and experience.

The bustling metropolis of Tokyo blends historic temples and shrines with skyscrapers and futuristic technologies, creating a fascinating cultural diversity. Just strolling through the different neighborhoods is an experience.

Here are my top 5 must-see recommendations for your trip to Tokyo:

  1. Akihabara (秋葉原)
  2. Shibuya (渋谷)
  3. Harajuku (原宿)
  4. Shinjuku Gyoen Park (新宿御苑) & Hamarikyū-Park (浜離宮恩賜庭園)
  5. Asakusa (浅草)

Akihabara (秋葉原)

Akihabara, also known as the “Electronic Town” of Tokyo, is a unique district renowned worldwide for its high-tech gadgets and anime and manga merchandise. Additionally, Akihabara, with its gaming cafes and arcades, is a paradise for computer game enthusiasts.

The easiest way to reach the district is through the Akihabara Station, accessible via the Tokyo Subway Hibiya Line (stop H16), JR Keihin-Tōhoku Line (stop JK25), or JR Yamanote Line (stop JY30). From there, you can dive straight into the hustle and bustle. Need help navigating the Tokyo subway? See here: Subway travel in Tokyo

Tip: Take an escalator or elevator in one of the many high-rise buildings. You’ll be surprised by what awaits you on the different floors.

 

Shibuya (渋谷)

Shibuya is arguably the most famous spot in all of Tokyo and a magnet for photographers, content creators, or hobby filmmakers. We’re talking about the mega intersection where everyone crosses in all directions. Its official name is Shibuya Crossing (渋谷スクランブル交差点). Up to 250,000 people cross this intersection daily.

It is located directly by the enormous Shibuya subway station and is accessible via several subway lines, including JR Lines Saikyō Line, Shōnan–Shinjuku Line, and Yamanote Line, as well as Tokyo Subway Lines Ginza Line, Hanzōmon Line, and Fukutoshin Line.

Note: If you want to visit the Shibuya Sky observation platform, you need to book tickets at least 2 weeks in advance for prime slots (sunset/evening ambiance). In case of bad weather, the observation platform may close without warning. Tickets can only be canceled with a fee of 20%.

 

Harajuku (原宿)

Harajuku is not just a shopping district but also a cultural hotspot influencing the latest fashion trends and youth movements in Japan. The vibrant shopping street, Takeshita Street, is the heart of Harajuku and renowned for its numerous boutiques, vintage shops, cafes, and pop-up stores.

Visit the rooftop terrace “Omohara Forest” at Tokyu Plaza. The Tokyu Plaza shopping center is well-known for its architecture and is hard to miss with its mirrored entrance.

The easiest way to reach Harajuku is through Harajuku Station served by the JR Yamanote Line.

Tip: Stroll through the small side alleys along Takeshita Street. Here, you’ll find many small pop-up stores and cafes, such as the somewhat hidden Coffee Shop Baggage Coffee.

Tokyo Tokyu Plaza - Top 5 Must See

City Parks

For those in need of some peace from the city noise and seeking relaxation, I can recommend two beautiful parks.

Not recommended, however, is the somewhat sterile Ueno Park with its pond, where hundreds of Japanese people ride around in pink swan boats.

Shinjuku Gyoen Park (新宿御苑)

Shinjuku Gyoen Park, also known as the Imperial Park Shinjuku, is one of the most beautiful parks in the city and is located right by Shinjuku. Originally designed as an imperial garden, it now combines Japanese, English and French garden styles. The extensive green spaces invite for picnics, strolls, and relaxation. The park is particularly popular during the cherry blossom season in spring.

The park is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 am to 4 pm, with an admission fee of approximately 500 yen. It has several entrances that are easily accessible.

Tip: Visit the traditional tea house Rakuutei, where you can experience a Japanese tea ceremony in a historic setting. If you just want to enjoy a cup of coffee, you can also visit the Starbucks. It’s like any other Starbucks, but it offers a beautiful view of the park.

Tokyo Shinjuku Gyoen Park - Top 5 Must See

Hamarikyū-Park (浜離宮恩賜庭園)

Hamarikyū-Park, also known as the Imperial Garden of Hama Residence, is located in Chūō and stands as Tokyo’s urban oasis. One of the park’s most distinctive features is the Shioiri Pond, connected to Tokyo Bay by a tidal channel. The tides influence the water level in the pond, imparting a unique scenic dynamic to the park.

Within the park, you’ll find the Nakashima Teahouse, where you can experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

The park is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with an admission fee of approximately 300 yen.

Tip: Take the water taxi from Asakusa to the park. The ride costs around 1,000 yen and already includes admission. During the journey, you can admire the impressive Tokyo skyline from the Sumida River. Note: Unfortunately, there is no return boat service, but a subway station is located nearby for your convenience.

Tokyo Hamarikyū-Park - Top 5 Must See

Asakusa (浅草)

The atmosphere in Asakusa, pronounced Asaksa, is characterized by a blend of tradition and modernity. It is primarily known for the Sensō-ji Temple, considered the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. The bustling Nakamise Street, leading to the temple, is filled with souvenir shops and traditional craft stalls.

While the temple and Nakamise Street provide insight into traditional Japanese culture, Tokyo Skytree Town, featuring the impressive Tokyo Skytree, symbolizes modern architecture and offers breathtaking views of the city.

It’s best to take the Tokyo Subway Line Asakusa Line, Ginza Line, or the JR Line Tobu Skytree Line to Asakusa Station.

Tip: On the third weekend of May, one of Tokyo’s largest festivals, the Sanja Matsuri Festival, takes place here. Enthusiastic crowds carry “Mikoshi” (large decorated shrines) through the streets. This act symbolizes the transfer of divine forces from the main temple to the portable shrines.

 
City Trip Top 5