Choose from 200 Fun Things to Do in Japan
ShowingFilter 141-160 of 200 listings.
Tokyo Metro
Japan as a whole and Tokyo in particular have train travel down to an art. The Japanese capital has two main subway operators — Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation (Toei) and Tokyo Metro — and Tokyo Metro is the largest with nine of the city’s 13 lines. Tokyo Metro also draws the largest ridership.
While you can’t get everywhere in Tokyo on Tokyo Metro, the lines do cover most of the city’s most popular attractions and shopping areas, including Shibuya Crossing, Sensoji Temple, Tokyo Tower and Tsukiji Market. The system is also very easily navigable for English speakers, thanks to signage, station announcements and ticket machines in English. Trains depart every two to three minutes on major lines during morning and evening rush hours, and free Wi-Fi is available at most stations.
Practical Info
Tokyo Subway Tickets, available to tourists at Narita Airport and Haneda Airport, offer one-, two- and three-day passes good for unlimited rides on both Tokyo Metro and Toei lines.
Address: Tokyo, Japan
Admission: 170 yen-390 yen
From $ 89
Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street
Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city and also one of the best for shopping. With that said, some of the most distinctive souvenirs can be found in a rather unexpected place called Sennichimae Doguyasuji. The 525-foot-long (160-meter-long) covered shopping arcade specializes in wholesale kitchen equipment and utensils and serves as the spot where Osaka’s chefs come to shop.
Anyone who has spent time in Japan will recognize the plastic models of popular food items placed in many Japanese restaurant window displays. Sennichimae Doguyasuji is the place to find these pieces, which make very unique gifts to take back home. With its hugely discounted prices, this shopping street is also a good place to buy chopsticks, cooking knives and other Japanese-style dishware.
Practical Info
Sennichimae Doguyasuji is located just a couple minutes’ walk from the Namba subway station. It is also within walking distance of America Mura and the restaurants of Dotonbori.
Address: Nambasennichimae, Chuo-ku Osaka-shi, Osaka, Japan
From $ 130
Yokohama
A maritime city with international flair, Yokohama was once one of Japan's preeminent ports for international trade. Yokohama's port was the first to open up to foreign trade after the end of Japan's isolationist economic policy in 1854. By 1923, the once small fishing village had emerged as a burgeoning metropolis but faced an early demise after experiencing devastating damage in the Great Kanto Earthquake. Before it could fully recover, World War II fire bombings ravaged the city again. Today, Yokohama steadfastly remains Japan's second largest city with a population of over three million and attracts foreign tourists and expatriates in large numbers. It boasts one of the world's largest Chinatown areas and preserves Western residences built in the 19th century to welcome international traders.
Strolling along the waterfront at Yamashita Park, visitors take in the famous Yokohama Marine Tower, the tallest inland lighthouse in the world. Further inland, a ferris wheel towers over the city, affording views of the industrialized port, quaint residential streets, and ships in the bay. International restaurants cater to visitors and residents from China, Thailand, South Korea, and even western countries. Parks, stadiums, shopping centers, and skyscrapers adorn the city landscape. There's a cosmopolitan feel about the city with a laid back maritime vibe.
Strolling along the waterfront at Yamashita Park, visitors take in the famous Yokohama Marine Tower, the tallest inland lighthouse in the world. Further inland, a ferris wheel towers over the city, affording views of the industrialized port, quaint residential streets, and ships in the bay. International restaurants cater to visitors and residents from China, Thailand, South Korea, and even western countries. Parks, stadiums, shopping centers, and skyscrapers adorn the city landscape. There's a cosmopolitan feel about the city with a laid back maritime vibe.
Practical Info
A short 30 minute train ride from Tokyo, Yokohama is accessible by a multitude of train lines. There is no airport in the city, and getting around by car is not recommended. The city has a reliable, efficient public transportation system, and most sights and attractions are accessible by walking. Bus and boat are popular means by which to see the city. Yokohama's main attraction is its port and harbor, lined by parks and other areas to enjoy the view.
Address: Yokohama, Japan
From $ 113
Tofuku-ji Temple
Few places on earth are more breathtakingly beautiful than Fall in Tofucku-ji Temple. During cool autumn months travelers and locals make the journey to this Zen temple in southeastern Kyoto that’s known for its incredible colors and brilliant Japanese maples. Visitors climb to the top of Tsutenkyo Bridge, which stretches across a colorful valley full of lush fall foliage in fiery reds and shocking oranges.
Visitors who make their way to Tofuku-ji other times of year can still wander beautiful temple grounds and explore places like the Hojo, where the head priest used to reside. Well-kept rock gardens provide the perfect spot for quiet contemplation and a stone path near the Kaisando is lined with brightly colored flowers and fresh greenery that’s almost as beautiful as the Japanese maples this temple is famous for.
Practical Info
A large part of the temple grounds are free to visit, although the bridge does require travelers to pay a small fee. Colors usually reach their peak in mid to late November. Travelers can expect to find bigger crowds and congestion on the Tsutenkyo Bridge, but most agree it’s still worth a visit.
Address: 15-778 Hommachi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan
Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
From $ 54
Yasaka Shrine
Host to Japan’s most famous festival, Gion Matsuri, Yasaka Shrine is located in the heart of Kyoto. Yasaka Shrine dates back to the 7th century, when it was known as Gion Shrine for its location near the Gion district, famous for the geisha that live and work there. The shrine consists of several buildings. The main hall houses an inner sanctuary and a secondary hall. One of the most prominent features of the shrine is a large stage out front lined with hundreds of lanterns. One of the most popular times to visit the shrine is in the evening or at night, when the lanterns light the stage.
The annual Gion Matsuri festival began more than 1,100 years ago at Yasaka Shrine. In modern times, it takes place every July. Originally, the festival sought to expunge the city of illnesses. Today, the festival celebrates craftwork. Intricate fabrics, textiles, and sculptures adorn floats that men carry through town. Music, costumes, and street food contribute to the festive atmosphere. Yasaka Shrine is also a popular place to visit during the Japanese New Year and during cherry blossom season.
Practical Info
Yasaka Shrine can be reached by public bus in Kyoto. It is located near the Gion bus stop, which can be reached from Kyoto Station on city buses number 100 or 206. By train, the closest stop is Gion Shijo Station. The shrine can also be reached by a beautiful 25-minute walk from Kiyomizudera.
Address: 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
From $ 27
Tokyo Daijingu Shrine
The Tokyo Daijingu Shrine is one of the most important Shinto shrines in Tokyo. Worshippers come here to pray for love and a happy marriage. The shrine is dedicated to two Shinto sun goddesses and three gods of creation and growth. It was built in 1880, and is famous for being the first place to hold a traditional Shinto wedding ceremony.
The Basics
While the structure of the Tokyo Daijingu Shrine was built in the late 19th century and it was moved to its current location after the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, the practices of worship that the shrine embodies are much older. A similar temple in Mie Prefecture, southwest of Tokyo, has been a pilgrimage site since the 17th century. The Tokyo Daijingu Shrine was built to help people living closer to Tokyo worship the same gods. Today, the shrine continues to play an important role in the spirituality of many Japanese, and it’s always busy with worshippers seeking blessings for love and marriage. Travelers often visit the shrine on guided or self-guided walking tours of Tokyo
Things to Know Before You Go
- Stalls outside the shrine sell charms designed to bring good luck in love; they make a nice souvenir.
- Before entering the shrine, purify yourself at the fountain by washing your hands and mouth.
- You’ll see many hanging wooden plaques on which worshippers have written their prayers. You can purchase an ema plaque and write your own wishes or prayers.
How to Get There
Like most places in Tokyo, it’s advisable to travel to the shrine by train or subway. It’s about a five-minute walk from Iidabashi Station on the JR Sobu Line.
When to Get There
The shrine and its grounds are open from sunrise to sunset. It’s especially busy during weekends, so visit outside this time to avoid the crowds.
Visit the Nearby Yasukuni Shrine
The Tokyo Daijingu Shrine is among Tokyo’s five most important shrines. Another of these is the nearby Yasukuni Shrine. It’s a notorious place, as it enshrines some generals considered to be World War II war criminals by much of the international community. But, for travelers interested in history and politics, the Yasukuni Shrine is a must-see destination in central Tokyo. It can easily be combined with a visit to the Tokyo Daijingu Shrine.
Address: 2-4-1 Fujimi, Chiyoda, Tokyo 102-0071, Japan
From $ 60
Yubu Island
While the pebble beaches of Yubu Island may not be ideal for traditional sunbathing, this hidden paradise offers travelers a uniquely authentic island experience that is not to be missed. Visitors can explore the land aboard old-school ox carts and navigate the shallow waters, crystal clear fjords and lush foliage with the help of a local guide and his powerful water buffalo.
In addition to Yubu’s untouched shores, visitors can explore picturesque walking trails and well-manicured botanical gardens, all while experiencing the old-world wonder that lies just beyond scenic Okinawa.
Practical Info
The island is accessible by car and is about 40 minutes from Kanpira-so. Although vehicles are not allowed on the island it’s possible to walk across the shallow fjord between Yubu and Irimote.
Address: Yubu Island, Japan
From $ 119
Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise
Situated on a small island in Yokohama Bay just south of downtown, Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise is a combination amusement park and aquarium — one of the most visited in the country.
The highlight of the park is its Aqua Museum, one of the largest marine life aquariums in Japan with more than 500 varieties of sea creatures spread throughout the three-floor structure. Between animal shows, guests can observe whale sharks, giant sea turtles, sea otters, dolphins and polar bears inside their recreated marine habitats. In Fureai Lagoon, guests can touch dolphins, beluga whales and walrus in a save environment.
Pleasure Land, the amusement park portion of Sea Paradise, features a sea coaster that swings out over the waters of Yokohama Bay, as well as a vertical drop tower, river raft ride and many of the usual carnival-style rides.
Practical Info
Check ahead for animal show times to make the most of your visit.
Address: Hakkeijima, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
Hours: 9am to 6pm
Admission: 5,050 yen
From $ 27
Togetsukyo Bridge
Once a destination for nobles, the Arashiyama district of Kyoto boasts small-town charm and beautiful mountainside views. Today, the popular neighborhood attracts tourists and nature lovers. The scenic neighborhood’s iconic landmark, Togetsukyo Bridge spans the Katsura River and provides panoramic views of lush mountainside foliage, gentle river swells, and local fisherman navigating the shoreline. The bridge’s history extends back 400 years and has been featured in many historical films.
Crossing Togetsukyo Bridge is a highlight of any visit to Arashiyama. From feeding carp fish over the railing to enjoying the splendor of cherry blossoms in the spring and fall foliage, the bridge is a gateway to a simple, stunningly scenic way of life. Another popular way to see the bridge is by a boat ride along the river.
Crossing Togetsukyo Bridge is a highlight of any visit to Arashiyama. From feeding carp fish over the railing to enjoying the splendor of cherry blossoms in the spring and fall foliage, the bridge is a gateway to a simple, stunningly scenic way of life. Another popular way to see the bridge is by a boat ride along the river.
Practical Info
The bridge is a one-minute walk from Arashiyama Station on Keifuku Railway. From Kyoto Station, Arashiyama is a 5-10 minute wealk from Saga-Arashiyama Station. Walking across the bridge is free. The best times to visit are in the spring and fall, when foliage is in bloom and colors on the mountainside are most vibrant.
Address: Sagatenryuji Tsukurimichicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
From $ 94
Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park, one of the largest parks in Tokyo, was the site of the 1964 Summer Olympic Games before it was turned into a public area three years later. Today, Yoyogi is one of the most popular youth hangout spots, particularly for rock music fans. You can rent bikes or browse the wares at the Sunday flea market.
On weekdays, the park fills with walkers, joggers and picnickers enjoying the ponds and forested areas, but not so on Sundays. Each Sunday, bands and musicians set up throughout the park, and Tokyo’s Cosplay shows up in full force, donning all sorts of 50s-era rocker costumes. Don’t be surprised to see several Elvis impersonators and girls with poodle skirts or rockabilly getups. If you want a look at Japan’s youth culture, it doesn't get much better than this.
If you're here in the spring, Yoyogi has a great scene of cherry blossoms, while the park’s gingko tree forest makes for excellent leaf-peeping in autumn.
On weekdays, the park fills with walkers, joggers and picnickers enjoying the ponds and forested areas, but not so on Sundays. Each Sunday, bands and musicians set up throughout the park, and Tokyo’s Cosplay shows up in full force, donning all sorts of 50s-era rocker costumes. Don’t be surprised to see several Elvis impersonators and girls with poodle skirts or rockabilly getups. If you want a look at Japan’s youth culture, it doesn't get much better than this.
If you're here in the spring, Yoyogi has a great scene of cherry blossoms, while the park’s gingko tree forest makes for excellent leaf-peeping in autumn.
Yoyogi Park is a five-minute walk from Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line or Yoyogi-Koen (Chiyoda line). It is also near the Yoyogi-Hachiman station on the Odakyu line. Toll parking is always available, and the site is next to Meiji Shrine.
Address: Yoyogi-Kamizono-cho, Jinnan 2-chome, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, Japan
Hours: Daily
From $ 81
Tokyo Dome City
If you're burned out from sightseeing and just want to kickback and have some fun like the locals do, you'll find what you're looking for at Tokyo Dome City, a massive entertainment complex in the Bunkyo district.
The area's centerpiece is the Tokyo Dome: the world's largest roofed baseball stadium. The dome, also known as The Egg, is the home stadium of the Yomiuri Giants and Nippon Ham. It can seat up to 55,000 people, and often fills up for popular matches. If you have a chance, catching a game offers a uniqe insight into Japanese sports culture.
Also in the area you'll find a small but fun amusement park (the roller coasters are a highlight), an arena for boxing and martial arts known as Karakuen Hall, a 43-floor hotel, bowling center, shops and eateries. A recent addition is the LaQua Spa onsen complex.
The area's centerpiece is the Tokyo Dome: the world's largest roofed baseball stadium. The dome, also known as The Egg, is the home stadium of the Yomiuri Giants and Nippon Ham. It can seat up to 55,000 people, and often fills up for popular matches. If you have a chance, catching a game offers a uniqe insight into Japanese sports culture.
Also in the area you'll find a small but fun amusement park (the roller coasters are a highlight), an arena for boxing and martial arts known as Karakuen Hall, a 43-floor hotel, bowling center, shops and eateries. A recent addition is the LaQua Spa onsen complex.
Practical Info
Parking is available on site. Parking area is expected to be congested on event days, Sundays and holidays. Public transportation is recommended. If a game or an event extends beyond normal closing, closing time will be extended. Accessible by train via the Narita or Haneda lines.
Address: 1-3-61 Koraku, Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan
Hours: Varies by attraction
Admission: Free to enter, but varies by attraction
From $ 27
The Philosopher's Path
One of Japan’s heralded philosophers is said to have meditated daily as he walked on a stone route alongside a canal on his commute to Kyoto University. The scenic path, shaded by hundreds of cherry trees, quickly became known as The Philosopher’s Path (or The Path of Philosophy), and today hundreds of people traverse the two-kilometer trail every day searching for peace, insight, and a clear mind. Small temples and shrines peek out from the cherry trees, beckoning to thinkers and walkers in search of religious observance.
Originating near Ginkakuji, the Silver Pavilion temple, the trail extends to the Kyoto neighborhood of Nanzenji. Near the end of the trail, a large aqueduct greets visitors, a popular spot to stop and take photos. Restaurants and cafes dot the trail. In the Spring, The Philosopher’s Path is one of the best places in all of Kyoto to enjoy the vibrant cherry blossoms in bloom.
Originating near Ginkakuji, the Silver Pavilion temple, the trail extends to the Kyoto neighborhood of Nanzenji. Near the end of the trail, a large aqueduct greets visitors, a popular spot to stop and take photos. Restaurants and cafes dot the trail. In the Spring, The Philosopher’s Path is one of the best places in all of Kyoto to enjoy the vibrant cherry blossoms in bloom.
Practical Info
Reach The Philosopher’s Path by a 5-10 minute north of Nanzenji’s main temple buildings. The walk takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, but many visitors take longer to explore the temples and sights along the route.
Address: The Philosopher’s Walk, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
From $ 71
Tokyo Camii & Turkish Culture Center
Tokyo Camii is located right in the heart of Tokyo in the Oyama-cho district of Shibuya. It’s the largest mosque in the city and is adjoined with the Turkish Culture Center, which provides an introduction to Islam and an insight into Turkish culture.
The mosque was originally built in 1938, but in 1986 it was demolished due to structural damage. Construction on a new building began in 1998 using marble shipped in from Turkey, and the new mosque was finally complete in 2000. It’s a huge Ottoman-style construct covering an area of more than 700 square-meters, with its main dome – supported by six pillars – reaching 23 meters tall.
The Turkish Culture Center serves to educate visitors about the mosque, as well as Islamic teachings and rituals. Here, books and pamphlets about Islam and Tokyo Camii are sold alongside souvenirs such as Turkish tiles.
Practical Info
Tokyo Camii and the Turkish Culture Center are situated in Oyama-cho, Shibuya. The nearest station is Yoyogi-Uehara. Visitors should ensure they adhere to certain rules when visiting the mosque, including dressing modestly and women covering their hair with headscarves.
Address: 1-19 Oyama-cho, Shibuya, Tokyo, Tokyo Prefecture, Japan 151-0065, Japan
Hours: Open daily 10am-6pm
From $ 77
Todai-ji Temple
Located in Deer Park (Nara Park) in Nara, about 35 minutes from Osaka by train, Todaiji Temple is one of Japan’s most famous and historically significant Buddhist temples. Originally built in the year 752, the temple as it exists today dates back to 1709. The main hall, called Big Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden), is the world’s largest wooden building, even though it’s a third smaller than the original hall from the 700s.
The greatest attraction in the Todaiji Temple complex is the enormous bronze Buddha statue (Japan’s largest) housed with the massive main hall. When the temple was first built, Emperor Shomu planned for Todaiji to serve as the headquarters of Buddhism throughout Japan, and he ordered the casting of the statue as part of that plan. The 50-foot-tall (15-meter-tall) statue required eight castings to complete.
According to local legend, anyone able to squeeze through the hole in the pillar located behind the Big Buddha achieves enlightenment.
Practical Info
Todaiji Temple is a 15-minute walk away from Kintetsu Nara Station, but it can also be reached by bus or taxi. Set aside about three hours to see Todaiji and the other temples and structures huddled together in Deer Park.
Address: 1 Zōshi-chō, Nara, Japan
Hours: November-February 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; March & October 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; April-September 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Admission: 500 yen (museum only), 800 yen (museum and Daibutsuden Hall)
From $ 45
Thunder Gate (Kaminarimon)
The symbol of the Asakusa neighborhood in Tokyo, Japan, the impressive, large, red Kaminarimon, or Thunder Gate, gives visitors a grand welcome to Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Temple). Standing 38 feet tall (11.7 meters), Thunder Gate gets its powerful name from Raijin, the god of thunder, one of the two deities it honors. Four statues guard Thunder Gate: at the front, the Shinto gods of wind and thunder attract the most attention. The other two – a Buddhist god and goddess - rest at the reverse side of the gate. Under Kaminarimon, a giant red lantern draws the eye next. The fragile piece was restored and donated to the temple complex in August 2003 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the start of the Edo period.
Kaminarimon’s history dates back to the year 941, when a military commander constructed the now iconic gate. Over the centuries, it has been destroyed by fire at least three times, and has always been rebuilt on the same ground. The current structure dates to 1960. Today, locals gather at the imposing gate to pray for peace in the world, fruitful harvests, and protection against natural disasters.
Practical Info
Thunder Gate and Senso-ji temple are a five-minute walk from the Asakusa subway stop in Tokyo. The station can be reached on the Ginza Subway, Asakusa Subway Line, and Tobu Railway. There is no entrance fee to visit the Gate or the temple, and the grounds are always open.
Address: Tokyo, Japan
From $ 41
Tokyo Central Railway Station
There are many large rail stations in Tokyo, but none have quite the elegance and history of Tokyo Central Railway Station. The station sits near the Imperial Palace grounds in the Ginza district. The classical look of the main facade is fashioned after Amsterdam's main station. In 1921, Prime Minister Hara Takashi was assassinated at the south gates. Much of the station was damaged during World War II and is constantly being renovated and improved upon.
Nowadays the station is the busiest in all of Japan in terms of train volume with over 3000 trains passing through and 381,704 passengers every day. It's the starting point of many Shinkansen trains as well as JR Trains and the Tokyo Metro. It's an excellent place to people watch- just make sure to stay out of the way of the busy commuters!
Nowadays the station is the busiest in all of Japan in terms of train volume with over 3000 trains passing through and 381,704 passengers every day. It's the starting point of many Shinkansen trains as well as JR Trains and the Tokyo Metro. It's an excellent place to people watch- just make sure to stay out of the way of the busy commuters!
Address: 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan
From $ 50
Tokyo City View Observation Deck
Tokyo City View Observation Deck may be the sleekest of the city's many observation centers. You can find it on the 52nd floor of the Mori Tower, which is the centerpiece of the new and modern Roppongi Hills building complex.
The Sky Gallery is a 360 degree panoramic observation room split into three separate sections. Gallery 1 offers a view of Tokyo Tower and Odaiba, Gallery Two showcases Yokohama and Mount Fuji and Gallery 3 overlooks Sibuya and Shinjuku. The cost of admission allows you to enter all three. For an extra fee it's possible to visit the Sky Deck, an even higher open air rooftop observation center.
Also included in the price of admission is entry to the adjacent modern art museum which spotlights a rotating series of exhibitions. If you have more money to spend there is a planetarium show as well as several bars and restaurants.
The Sky Gallery is a 360 degree panoramic observation room split into three separate sections. Gallery 1 offers a view of Tokyo Tower and Odaiba, Gallery Two showcases Yokohama and Mount Fuji and Gallery 3 overlooks Sibuya and Shinjuku. The cost of admission allows you to enter all three. For an extra fee it's possible to visit the Sky Deck, an even higher open air rooftop observation center.
Also included in the price of admission is entry to the adjacent modern art museum which spotlights a rotating series of exhibitions. If you have more money to spend there is a planetarium show as well as several bars and restaurants.
Practical Info
Open Sun-Thurs 10am-11pm (admission until 10:30pm), Fri/Sat/Day before holiday 9am-1am (admission until 12am) and the Sky Deck is open 10am-8pm (admission until 7:30pm). Hours may change seasonally. Sky Deck may be closed due to bad weather such as rain, heavy fog or strong winds. For cost of admission, adults 1,500 yen, students 1,000 yen and children 500 yen. For Sky Deck only, adults and students 500 yen and children up to junior high are 300 yen. Accessible by train, car or bus. 3 min from Roppongi Station (Hibiya Subway Line). 6 min from Roppongi Station (Oedo Subway Line). Parking is available.
Address: 52nd floor Mori Tower, Roppongi Hills, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Hours: Sun-Thurs 10am-11pm (admission until 10:30pm), Fri/Sat/Day before holiday 9am-1am (admission until 12am), Sky Deck 10am-8pm (admission until 7:30pm)
Admission: Adults: 1,500 yen; Students 1,000; Children 500
From $ 14
World Trade Center Cosmo Tower
Osaka’s World Trade Center Cosmo Tower, center of trade information linked with 282 cities around the world, soars at 256 meters (840 feet), and the observatory provides wonderful views of Osaka and the port. With 3 stories below ground, and another 55 above ground, it's the highest tower in Western Japan.
The ride to the top is in a glass-walled elevator, taking just 80 seconds to soar to the 52nd floor.The views are specially magical and twinkling at dusk and night when you can watch the sun set over Osaka. You can even see planes taking off and landing at Kansai Airport!
There are several restaurants and bars, jazz music, and cozy seats designed for two that provide a comfortable vantage point to sit back and take in the views from the top of the world.
Practical Info
The World Trade Center is by the port in the west of Osaka. To get here, take the train to Trade Center-Mae station.
Address: 1-14-16 Nankokita, Suminoe-ku, Osaka 559-0034, Japan
Hours: Mon - Fri: 1pm - 10pm, weekends and holidays: 11am - 10pm
Admission: Observation Deck - Adults: ¥ 500, Children: ¥ 200, Seniors: ¥ 400
From $ 88
Yanaka
Yanaka is one of Tokyo's most charming and traditional districts. The neighborhood is dotted with some 70 temples, which were moved to the area during the Edo era to spare them from frequent fires in the city's more populated parts. Today, the street is home to Yanaka Ginza, a bustling shopping street that runs through its center and that is lined with many of the same butcher shops and produce vendors who operated there decades ago.
Stroll through the neighborhood's backstreets to visit galleries, cafes and craft workshops featuring Japanese pottery, ink prints, textiles, jewelry, and stationery. Tranquil paths wind through the vast Yanaka Cemetery, where sakura trees shade some 7,000 graves, making it a popular spot for a quiet walk and a great location to view cherry blossoms in spring.
Insider's Tip: Plan your visit for late morning at the earliest. Things in Yanaka don’t start waking up until then.
Practical Info
Yanaka is located just outside Tokyo's more populated, modern downtown, and is easily accessible by train. Walk west from Nippori Station for a little over a quarter of a mile (450 m) to reach the district.
Address: Yanaka Ginza, Tokyo, Japan
From $ 68
Yurakucho Yakitori Alley
The best way to find Yurakucho Yakitori Alley is to follow the grill smoke. Tucked away under the train tracks of the JR Yamanote Line, this alley is a place for an open-air dining experience, complete with master yakitori chefs who man small, individual stalls and serve up grilled meats, vegetables and beer. Adventurous eaters can take advantage of menu items that make use of entire animals, with specialties consisting of chicken liver, heart and intestines. The outdoor venue is well known among local businessmen but is a hidden off-the-beaten-path gem for tourists.
Yakitori Alley stretches for nearly half a mile under the train tracks (about 700 meters). The rustic area has seen development in recent years, and with this, more traditional, enclosed restaurants have also opened up alongside the open-air food stalls. The old, gritty atmosphere persists, however. One of the best ways to experience Yakitori Alley is with a group, so you can try as many of the food stalls as possible.
Practical Info
The closest subway exits to Yurakucho Yakitori Alley are A2 at Hibiya Station and C1 at Ginza Station. Look for an open passageway beneath the tracks down to the alley, which is near Yurakucho Station in central Tokyo. Make sure to dress for the weather, as most of the food stalls are uncovered and outdoors. Individual meat skewers cost about $2 USD, and most vendors require a purchase of at least two.
Address: Yurakucho Yakitori Alley, Tokyo, Japan
From $ 90