Choose from 95 Fun Things to Do in Kanto
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Robot Restaurant
In Shinjuku's Kabukicho district (entertainment and red light district), the surreal Robot Restaurant may be unlike anything you've ever seen. Its sci-fi Japanese cabaret show starring giant robots is loud and proud, both visually and audibly—taiko drums and techno music accompany flashing lights, multiple mirrors, and huge video screens. A sensorial extravaganza, the restaurant is no quiet night out.
The Basics
Every night there are four 90-minute shows, during which dancers in dazzling costumes perform alongside giant pandas, dinosaurs, robots, and other zany cast members. Due to the spectacle’s extreme popularity among both Japanese and international tourists, tickets often sell out early, so it’s a good idea to book in advance. You can purchase drinks and snacks at the cabaret, and many packages include show tickets and a post-performance dinner at an equally interesting nearby restaurant—from an izakaya with temari thread-ball decor to an “Alice in Wonderland”–themed dining experience.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Robot Restaurant is a must for a night out in Tokyo.
- The restaurant offers free lockers for storing your belongings during the show.
- Choose a basic ticket to the robot cabaret or a combination package that includes dinner at a nearby restaurant.
- Come a few minutes early for a photo op with the two robots positioned outside the bar.
How to Get There
Robot Restaurant is situated in Tokyo’s Shinjuku neighborhood. It’s a short walk (about five minutes) from the JR Shinjuku Station East Exit or Tokyo Metro Shinjuku-sanchome Station Exit B12.
When to Get There
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled show. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your reservation.
To Eat or Not to Eat
Robot Restaurant serves standard Japanese food. A typical meal consists of a bento box with items such as sushi and tempura. Instead of eating during the show, you can grab a sake or beer and have dinner elsewhere after the performance. Many tours offer a show-and-dinner combo.
Address: 1-7-1 Kabukicho, Tokyo, Tokyo Prefecture, Japan 160-0021, Japan
Hours: Daily 3pm-11pm
Admission: 8000 Yen
From $ 54
Roppongi
A decade ago, going to Roppongi meant you were either visiting an embassy or out to party with the expat community. While Roppongi remains one of Tokyo’s best nightlife districts, it has successfully broadened its appeal with a wider variety of cultural and entertainment options.
The Basics
The project that was most significant in changing the face of Roppongi was Roppongi Hills, a behemoth modern shopping and entertainment complex housed at the base of Mori Tower that opened in 2003. As well as upscale stores and restaurants, Roppongi Hills is home to the Mori Art Museum and Tokyo City View, a viewing platform with 360-degree views from 820 feet (250 meters) above ground. Elsewhere in Roppongi, you’ll also find a second entertainment and shopping complex (Tokyo Midtown) and the National Art Center Tokyo. The area includes a sizable collection of international restaurants, bars, and clubs.
Your options for guided tours of the area include (as you might expect) fun-filled pub crawls, which usually include free drinks at the bars you hop through. Other options include taking a relaxed bicycle tour or a scholar-led architecture walking tour that points out Roppongi’s examples of superflat art and Japonism design.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Roppongi is a must-visit for those wanting a slice of Tokyo nightlife.
- The area also has a lot of appeal for art and architecture lovers.
- In the past, Roppongi had a reputation for danger. It’s much different now, and the main annoyances are persistent touts trying to get you into their clubs.
- The movie theater in Roppongi Hills is a high-tech, futuristic experience: Some screens are MX4D.
How to Get There
Roppongi station is served by both Tokyo Metro (the Hibiya line) and Toei Subway (Oedo line). The Metro Hibiya line directly connects to other areas of interest to travelers such as Ginza, Ueno, and Akihabara. Roppongi is also within easy walking distance of Aoyama, Azabu Juban, and Hiroo.
When to Get There
Roppongi’s nightlife scene starts late—usually close to midnight—and rages on until the early morning when the first trains begin to run (around 5am) and take revelers back home. Every night is bustling, but Fridays nights, when workers finish for the week, are the liveliest.
A Popular Hangout
At the bottom of Keyakizaka-dori, Tsutaya Tokyo Roppongi bookstore is open 21 hours a day, making it a popular hangout for revelers waiting for the first train home and others whiling away daytime hours. The bookstore focuses on photography, architecture, and design and allows you to read the books at leisure in the adjacent Starbucks. Look for discount flyers here for the Mori Art Museum and other local attractions.
Address: Japan
From $ 23
Kawagoe Ichibangai Street
In Japan’s Edo period, Kawagoe was a prosperous castle town and due to it escaping damage during World War II, the city still has many of its old streets still in tact. Ichibangai Street is lined with traditional buildings on both sides, making it full of character — the ideal place to learn about the history of the area while enjoying a spot of shopping.
This small street is around 400 meters long and is situated less than a kilometer north of Hon-Kawagoe Station. The style of the buildings are that of traditional Japanese warehouses (kura), that were specifically designed to be fireproof after a large fire ripped through the area in 1893. These days, many of the buildings are either shops or restaurants catering for a burgeoning tourist crowd.
Ichibangai Street is best explored on foot as part of a Kawagoe walking tour that also takes in the old city’s other attractions, such as Dream Street, Spatiotemporal Bell, Snack Street, and Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine.
Practical Info
The easiest way to reach Kawagoe from Tokyo is by train. The fastest route is via the Tobu Tojo line (Ikebukuro to Kawagoe Station), which takes 30 minutes on the express train. The nearest train station to the old town area in Kawagoe is Hon-Kawagoe Station, which is accessible on the Seibu Line and is a popular meeting point for walking tours.
Did You Know? There’s a museum on the street where you can learn more about the fireproof warehouse buildings. It features design plans, cross sections of walls, roof tiles, and fire-resistant doors.
Address: Ichibangai Street, Kawagoe, Japan
From $ 81
Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine
Located on the north side of Lake Kawaguchi, the Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine was built in the ninth century after Mt Fuji erupted, causing chaos and tragedy among the locals. This shrine was built as a gesture by the people to appease the anger of the gods that they believed caused the mountain to erupt.
On the approach to the shrine, giant 800-year-old cedar trees line the path on either side, with stone lanterns guiding the way to the red pagoda beyond. In the past, the Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine was a common starting point for climbing Mount Fuji from the north, with the trailhead located directly behind the shrine's main hall. Most hikers today, however, are more in favor of cutting their journey time by up to five hours by forgoing a trip to the shrine and beginning their climb from the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station instead.
The Maternal White Falls are located around half an hour’s walk from Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine. These waterfalls are stunning enough on their own, but on a clear day, there’s also some impressive views of Lake Kawaguchi and the mighty Mount Fuji to be had along the way.
Practical Info
Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine can be reached by bus from both Kawaguchiko Station and Fujisan Station. (It’s a 30-minute walk from Fujisan Station).
Address: 1 Kawaguchi, Fujikawaguchiko, Narusawa, Yamanashi Prefecture 401-0304, Japan
From $ 350
Kasuga Shrine
Located in the city of Nara, a day trip’s distance from Osaka, the Kasuga Shrine dates back to the year 768, when its construction was ordered by Emperor Shotoku. In the centuries since, it has been rebuilt several times.
This celebrated Nara shrine is most famous for the series of giant stone lanterns that line the paths toward its entrance. They are lit twice each year during the biannual lantern festivals in early spring and early autumn. Hundreds more bronze lanterns, many donated by temple worshippers, hang within the buildings of the complex.
The Shinto shrine complex is part of the UNESCO-listed Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara, and the path leading up to it winds through Nara Park, where it’s sometimes possible to spot deer roaming freely.
Practical Info
Kasuga Shrine is located on the eastern end of Nara Park, about 30 minutes on foot from Kintetsu Nara Station. You can also catch a bus from JR Nara Station.
Address: Nara Park, Japan
Hours: 6 a.m.-6 p.m. April to September, 6 a.m.-5:30 p.m. October to March
Admission: Free (outer area), 500 yen (inner area)
From $ 45
Kabukicho
Kabukicho, one of Tokyo’s busiest nightlife and red light districts, offers the foreign visitor nothing short of a bizarre cultural experience. An estimated 150,000 people pass through the district’s 200 clubs and 80 love hotels each day, and you’re much more likely to see groups of male work associates in business suits than couples or families. After dark, the district lights up with LED signs in every color covering nearly any open wall surface. Many of the clubs catering to executives and lonely husbands are themed, so you’ll see girls wandering around in full costume on their way to or from work.
While Kabukicho isn’t a place to take the kids, it isn’t nearly as promiscuous from the street as other red light districts around the world. Come enjoy the people watching after a dinner in one of the district’s many izakayas. Even the restaurants here are themed, allowing you to enjoy a meal locked up in a stone jail cell or in a cafe full of real cats.
Despite the area’s less-than-stellar reputation, Kabukicho is remarkably safe, but it’s a good idea to come with other people and leave before midnight with the sex bars are legally required to close.
While Kabukicho isn’t a place to take the kids, it isn’t nearly as promiscuous from the street as other red light districts around the world. Come enjoy the people watching after a dinner in one of the district’s many izakayas. Even the restaurants here are themed, allowing you to enjoy a meal locked up in a stone jail cell or in a cafe full of real cats.
Despite the area’s less-than-stellar reputation, Kabukicho is remarkably safe, but it’s a good idea to come with other people and leave before midnight with the sex bars are legally required to close.
Address: Japan
From $ 50
Imperial Palace
Home to Japan’s Emperor, Tokyo’s Imperial Palace occupies the site of the original Edo Castle (Edo-jō), the Tokugawa shogunate's castle, which was once the largest fortress in the world. Located in the center of Tokyo, the palace is surrounded by moats and serene gardens.
The Basics
Given that it is a royal residence, the palace interior and some of the grounds are closed to the public. You can stroll the meticulously manicured Imperial Palace East Garden, set at the foot of the hill where Edo Castle's foundation remains, and the Imperial Palace Outer Garden. From here you can view two famous bridges, the iron Nijubashi and the stone Meganebashi.
Free tours in English, organized by the Imperial Household Agency, allow you to see a small part of the inner compound. Or combine a visit to the Imperial Palace with other Tokyo attractions, such as the Asakusa and Ginza districts, on a sightseeing tour by bus or chartered taxi or a walking tour. Some tours allow travelers to stop for photos at the palace and also experience a Sumida River cruise, participate in a traditional tea ceremony, or take in the view from the top of Tokyo Tower.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Imperial Palace is a must-visit for those with an interest in Japanese history.
- This has been the Imperial residence since 1868 when Emperor Meiji moved here from the former capital of Kyoto.
- To avoid disappointment, it is best to book tour tickets in advance, but walk-in tickets are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- It is free to stop at the palace for photos, but various museums on the grounds may require admission fees.
- The grounds may be closed when Imperial Court functions are scheduled.
How to Get There
The Tokyo Imperial Palace is located in a large park area in the Chiyoda ward of central Tokyo. It is a 15-minute walk to Otemon Gate, the main entrance point, from Otemachi metro station, which is served by the Chiyoda, Tozai, Hanzomon, Mita, and Marunouchi lines. Free tours depart from the Kikyomon Gate, a 10-minute walk from the Otemachi and Nijubashi metro stations.
When to Get There
The gardens are open Tuesday through Thursday and on Saturday and Sunday. Tours are offered morning and afternoon, every day except Sundays and Mondays, national holidays, and December 28 through January 4. Only morning tours are available between July 21 and August 31.
Cherry Blossoms
During sakura, the spring cherry blossom season, more of the palace grounds with old cherry trees are open to the public. It's definitely worth a visit during this time for great opportunities to photograph blooming cherry trees framing the palace, but be prepared for bigger crowds and a more thorough security process.
Address: 1-1 Chiyoda, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan
Admission: Free
From $ 45
Kasai Rinkai Park
Kasai Rinkai Park, Tokyo’s largest park, opened in 1989 on Tokyo Bay, a beautiful area that overlooks the water and the city beyond. Built on reclaimed land, the park was developed with conservation and preservation in mind.
The Diamond and Flowers Ferris Wheel is by far the park’s most famous site, an iconic behemoth that sits 383 feet (117 meters) tall. Any trip to the park is incomplete without the 17-minute ride on the famous structure, as the views from the top encompass all of Tokyo and the surrounding areas, including Mt Fuji on a clear day.
Also on site is the Tokyo Sealife Aquarium, which features an all-glass dome that transports visitors straight into the sea with fish and other aquatic life swimming above, around and below them. There is also the Sea Bird Sanctuary, an outdoor preserve that takes up nearly one-third of the park. Bird and nature lovers, as well as photographers, flock to the sanctuary to see local birds, and visitors are free to walk around and explore the whole area other than the protected marshes.
Practical Info
The closest subway stop to Kasai Rinkai Park is Kasai Rinkai Koen Station on the JR Keiyo line. The trip takes about 10 to 15 minutes from Tokyo Station. The ferris wheel is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and until 9 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Admission costs 700 yen ($7 USD). The aquarium is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The admission fee is also 700 yen with discounts for seniors and students.
Address: 6 Rinkaicho, Edogawa, Tokyo 134-0086, Japan
Hours: Ferris Wheel: 10am-8pm weekdays, 10am-9pm weekends; Aquarium: 9:30am-5pm
Admission: Adults 700 Yen
From $ 81
Mt. Fuji
As Japan's highest mountain, the legendary Mt. Fuji stands 12,388 feet (3,776 meters) tall. Travelers from around the world head to Hakone National Park to see the mountain, and over 1 million of them hike all the way to the top each year for the 360-degree views of Lake Ashi, the Hakone mountains, and the Owakudani Valley.
The Basics
Whether you hike to the top or take it easy at the Fuji Visitor Center's observation deck, visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site is an unforgettable experience for any traveler to Japan. If you're not looking to climb the mountain, plenty of viewpoints and attractions are easily accessible by bus: travelers can head to the Fuji Visitor Center to explore a small museum and view exhibits covering the Fuji Five Lakes and Mt. Fuji's cultural importance; grab a bite to eat; or catch views onto the mountain at the observation deck. Further up at 7,545 feet (2,300 meters), Mt. Fuji 5th Station offers additional unobstructed views along with shrines and souvenir shops. Both locations also serve hikers preparing for their ascent. Many travelers visit the mountain on a day trip from Tokyo (usually by bullet train), with possible side excursions for hot spring soaking, shopping, or cruising Lake Ashi.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Mt. Fuji tours from Tokyo can last upwards of 12 hours, so prepare for a long day.
- Many tours include pickup and drop-off at Tokyo hotels.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for walking on uneven ground.
- Temperatures can be much cooler on the mountain than at the base, so remember to dress in layers.
- Combine your visit to Mt. Fuji with other popular activities, such as onsen soaking, outlet shopping, wine tasting, or a boat cruise.
- Mt. Fuji is notorious for its quickly changing weather conditions, so plan your trip for when visibility will be good.
How to Get There
Located 62 miles (100 km) from Tokyo, Mt. Fuji borders the Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures in Japan. The mountain can be reached by bullet train from Tokyo and then explored via tour bus. Another easy option is to take the Keio Express bus from Shinjuku in Tokyo directly to the start of the Kawaguchiko 5th Station climb. The bus takes two hours each way.
When to Get There
Climbing season at Mt. Fuji falls in July and August when the weather is mildest and snow is limited. The mountain is at its most crowded during this time. If you're not climbing, clearer spring skies give the best views of Mt. Fuji's snow-capped peak.
Where to Find Great Views of Mt. Fuji
Lake Kawaguchi, one of the Mt. Fuji five lakes, provides some of the best unobstructed views of the mountain. Another popular viewing spot is Hakone, a resort town famous for its onsen, ryokan, and ropeway, where you'll find the best views. A walk on the beaches of Kamakura yields spectacular views of the mountain in the distance, and on a clear day, it's even possible to spot the peak from the top of Tokyo Sky Tree.
Address: Shizuoka, Japan
From $ 33
Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine
Known as the shrine of love, the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is said to be around 1,500 years old. Its impressive entrance gate, called a torii, stands at 15 meters tall (around 50 feet). The main shrine is adorned with delicate carvings and has been listed as an important cultural building within the region. It is also a popular place for people to get married, as well as the site of a summer festival featuring tunnels of colorful wind chimes, live music, and even a ‘shrine bar’.
Dedicated to the God of Marriage, there is a good chance of witnessing a wedding procession on your visit to the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine. The site is surrounded by greenery and is not as crowded with tourists as other famous shrines, meaning if there is no wedding or festival during your visit, it’s a peaceful place to relax and take some photographs.
The shrine also has its very own restaurant; Musubi cafe serves various meals and desserts throughout the day and has a gift shop selling books and other souvenirs to remember your visit. Hikawa Shrine can be visited as part of a Kawagoe Walking Tour, which also takes in other famous attractions in the city.
Practical Info
The easiest way to reach Kawagoe from Tokyo is by train. The fastest way is to take the Tobu Tojo line from Ikebukuro to Kawagoe Station, which takes 30 minutes on the express train. However, the nearest train station to the old town area in Kawagoe is Hon-Kawagoe Station, which is accessible on the Seibu Line.
Did You Know? At just after 8am on the 8th and 24th of each month, the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine hosts a special procession to promote love and enhance relationships.
Address: 2-11-3 Miyashitamachi, Kawagoe, Japan
From $ 81
Kagurazaka
Kagurazaka is a neighborhood of Tokyo that offers modern shopping and but also a traditional style. It has an older feel than much of Tokyo, with cobblestone streets and original Edo-era (1603–1868) and Meiji-era (1868–1912) buildings still standing. It’s a trendy area, and a good place to shop or just sit quietly and people-watch.
The Basics
Kagurazaka was once a center of geisha culture in Tokyo. Some geisha houses still exist, and the area in general retains a lot of historic charm. Kagurazaka is known as Tokyo’s French Quarter; there’s a higher than average number of French people living and working here because it’s close to two French schools. Where the French go, stylish French cafes follow, and so it’s easy to find a good croissant and cheese to nibble on between browsing the fashionable boutiques.
Visitors tend to come to Kagurazaka on guided or self-guided walking tours. Guided walks included the district on Edo-era tours because of its history. Fun craft classes can also be done at Kagurazaka.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don’t miss the Akagi Jinja, a modern shrine made of wood and glass.
- The best way to visit Kagurazaka is on foot, on a simple self-guided walking tour from Iidabashi Station to Kagurazaka-Shita and Kagurazaka-Ue.
- In addition to its French flavors, Kagurazaka is highly regarded as a centre of Japanese Kanto cuisine. Foodies should seek out a traditional ryotei restaurant serving high-class (and high-price) kaiseki cuisine.
How to Get There
Like most places in central Tokyo, it’s best to reach Kagurazaka via train or subway, either using the JR Chuo line to Iidabashi Station, the Oedo Subway Line to Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station, or the Tozai Subway Line to Kagurazaka Station. Driving or taking a taxi isn’t recommended, as cars are prohibited on main roads during busy times.
When to Get There
The main street of Kagurazaka is pedestrianized on weekends and on holidays, making it more pleasant to walk around at these times. Kagurazaka hosts the annual Kagurazaka Awa Odori Festival in late July, famous for traditional dance and music, so this is an especially good time to visit as well.
Visit the Imperial Palace
Kagurazaka is very near Tokyo’s Imperial Palace, where the Emperor of Japan and his family still live. It’s worth combining a trip to these two sights in a single day. Although visitors can only enter the inner grounds of the palace on select days of the year, you can walk around the outer grounds anytime. The huge scale of the walls and the moat is impressive.
Address: Kagurazaka, Shinjuku, Tokyo 162-0825, Japan
From $ 34
Nakamise Street
For kitschy souvenirs and trinkets to bring home as gifts or mementos of your time in Japan, there’s really only one place to shop, and that’s Nakamise Street. The name roughly translates to “Street of Inside Shops,” and you’ll find both sides lined with stores selling knickknacks, souvenirs and snacks.
The shopping street owes its existence to the Senso-ji Buddhist temple, dating back to the seventh century. The temple has drawn in enough devotees over the centuries to spawn a thriving commercial district. The shops once served as homes for the temple servants who cleaned the grounds, but now it’s wall to wall shops. Here you’ll find folding fans, kimonos and their accompanying wooden sandals, Edo-style colored glassware and the typical lineup of tourist trinkets.
Save room in your stomach to sample some of the traditional Japanese snacks sold along the street, particularly the savory rice crackers, Azuki bean paste and sticky rice cakes.
The shopping street owes its existence to the Senso-ji Buddhist temple, dating back to the seventh century. The temple has drawn in enough devotees over the centuries to spawn a thriving commercial district. The shops once served as homes for the temple servants who cleaned the grounds, but now it’s wall to wall shops. Here you’ll find folding fans, kimonos and their accompanying wooden sandals, Edo-style colored glassware and the typical lineup of tourist trinkets.
Save room in your stomach to sample some of the traditional Japanese snacks sold along the street, particularly the savory rice crackers, Azuki bean paste and sticky rice cakes.
Address: Japan
From $ 45
Studio Ghibli Museum
Fans of Hayao Miyazaki's Studio Ghibli, which produced the films Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, and Howl’s Moving Castle, can see the filmmaker’s animated fantasylands brought to life and uncover the secrets behind the movies at the Studio Ghibli Museum in Tokyo.
The Basics
An admission ticket for the Studio Ghibli Museum—which must be purchased in advance—includes full access to the museum’s two exhibition floors, designed to imitate an animated set. On the first floor, explore the vast collection of art and animation, and learn about the history and culture of animation. Next, check out the special exhibitions and films on the second floor, which feature the work of Miyazaki and other celebrated animated films, such as Toy Story and Wallace and Gromit.
It’s possible to explore the museum on a guided or self-guided tour, but a popular choice is to combine it with other Ghibli-related attractions such as Hotel Gajoen Tokyo and Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architecture Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tickets are not sold at the museum and must be purchased well in advance.
- Plan at least two hours to take in the museum’s exhibitions.
- The museum has a cafe, rooftop garden, children's play area, and gift shop full of Ghibli merchandise and handmade crafts.
- The museum is accessible for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Studio Ghibli Museum is located in Mitaka, around 12.5 miles (20 kilometers) west of downtown Tokyo. The closest subway station is Mitaka on the JR Chuo Line; from there, walk (15 minutes), or catch a bus or taxi to the museum (about a 5-minute journey). Or, get off at Kichijoji station for a 20-minute walk along Inokashira Park.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily, except Tuesday, year-round. With all visits booked in advance, you won’t find yourself having to queue for tickets, but the museum is popular, and tickets can sell out weeks in advance.
Ghibli sights in Tokyo
The quirky animations produced by Studio Ghibli have left their mark all around Tokyo. After visiting the Studio Ghibli Museum and the Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum (which inspired the architecture for Miyazaki's film Spirited Away), head to the Nippon TV headquarters in Shiodome, where a gigantic Ghibli Clock (created by artist Kunio Shachimaru to Hayao Miyazaki’s design) hangs right over the entrance. Another fun destination is Shirohige Cream Puff Factory in Shimokitazawa, where all the baked goods (including the popular Totoro cream puffs) are Ghibli themed and approved by the studio.
Address: 1-1-83 Simorenjaku, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan
Admission: Varies
From $ 53
Inokashira Park
The pond within Inokashira Park was the first water source for the city of Edo—which today is Tokyo. One of the city’s most utilized green spaces, the park is particularly lovely during prime cherry-blossom viewing (hanami) and leaf peeping (momijigari) times. Inokashira also houses the famous Ghibli Museum, dedicated to Japanese anime.
The Basics
Inokashira Park was established in 1918, essentially as a gift from the emperor to the Japanese people. Inokashira Pond stretches through the park and connects to the Kanda River. The park is a popular place to come for a picnic, rent a paddleboat, or visit the resident petting zoo, aquarium, or Ghibli Museum.
Travelers often explore Inokashira Park before or after visiting the Ghibli Museum, which showcases the work of Japanese anime company Studio Ghibli.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Inokashira Park is ideal for all first-time visitors to Tokyo, especially those headed to the Ghibli Museum.
- The Kichijoji station food hall is a good place to pick up a bento box for a picnic lunch.
- While Inokashira Park is always open and free, its zoo is closed on Mondays and charges an entry fee.
- Tickets for the popular swan-shaped paddleboat rentals are time stamped, so even during busy periods, you are assured a chance to have a ride.
How to Get There
Inokashira Park, in western Tokyo, is accessible by JR or Keio trains. It’s right beside Inokashira-kōen station on the Keio Inokashira line, and a 5-minute walk from Kichijōji station and a 15-minute walk from Mitaka station, both on the JR Chuo Line.
When to Get There
Inokashira Park is open 24 hours a day. Like many of Tokyo’s parks, spring is a great time to visit, as the soft pink cherry blossoms bring many visitors and a festive atmosphere. Other seasons have their attractions as well, with lush greenery in summer, fall leaves in autumn, and migrating birds in winter.
The Ghibli Museum
For many travelers who come to Japan to experience its unique anime (animation) culture, the Ghibli Museum is an essential stop. But not only anime enthusiasts love the museum—it appeals to a range of curious minds, including kids, technology enthusiasts, and lovers of fine art. The museum has permanent and temporary exhibits as well as an on-site café, bookshop, rooftop garden, and theater. You must buy tickets in advance through the website or at Lawson convenience stores within Japan; it’s recommended to do so as far in advance as possible. The Ghibli is open from 10am to 6pm Wednesday through Sunday.
Address: 4 Inokashira, Mitaka, Tokyo, Japan
From $ 122
Mt Koya
Mt Koya is at the center of Shingon Buddhism, which was introduced in Japan in 805 by Kobo Daishi – one of Japan's most important religious figures. Built on a forested mountain top, the secluded temple village of Koyasan has since developed around the Shingon headquarters, which is also the site of Kobo Daishi's mausoleum.
Koyasan is the ideal place to experience an overnight stay at a temple lodging (or shukubo). Around 50 temples in the area offer this type of visit to both pilgrims and other travelers, offering them the chance to experience a monk's lifestyle by eating, living, and observing prayer times just as they do.
Practical Info
Mt Koya can be reached by train from Nara, Kyoto, and Osaka via a scenic route through valleys towards the final stages of the journey. The cable car that leads up to Mt Koya is the longest in the country, and from the station at the top there’s a bus up to the holy areas. Koyasan tends to be around 5°C cooler than down on the plains, so bring warm clothes if you're visiting at any other time than the height of summer.
Address: Koyasan, Koya, Ito District, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan
From $ 3,430
National Diet Building
The National Diet Building is the center of Japanese politics, as it houses both chambers of the Diet, or legislative arm: the House of Representatives, which meets in the left wing, and the House of Councillors, which meets in the right wing. Built in 1936, the building is constructed almost entirely of Japanese materials.
The building is iconic for its pyramid-shaped dome in the center of the complex, which made it the tallest building in Japan at completion. The interior is decorated with cultural artifacts and art pieces, such as bronze statues of the men who are credited with formulating Japan's first modern constitution. The building sits on land once inhabited by feudal lords, giving the spot even more historical significance. It is sometimes referred to as the House of Parliament or the Government building in Tokyo.
Practical Info
Groups of up to 10 people can enter the House of Councillors wing without prior reservations. To visit the lower house in the building, a House of Representatives member is required as an escort, and prior arrangements are necessary. For groups of more than 10, reservations are always required. A free one-hour tour takes place only when the Diet is not in session, and English guides are not always available. The National Diet Building is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can be reached via a short walk from the Nagata-Cho Station on Tokyo Metro Subway.
Address: 1-7-1 Nagatacho, Chiyoda, Tokyo 100-0014, Japan
Hours: 9am-5pm
From $ 45
Mount Fuji's 5th Station
At 7,546 feet (2,300 meters), Mount Fuji’s 5th Station affords incredible views over Fuji Five Lakes and Hakone National Park. Easily accessible by road, 5th Station lies at the midpoint of the Yoshida Trail to Mount Fuji’s summit; many hikers begin their ascent here.
The Basics
Most visitors explore Mount Fuji 5th Station on a day trip from Tokyo, combined with other attractions in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. A typical day tour itinerary includes a Lake Ashi boat cruise and a ride on Mount Komagatake’s ropeway; a visit to Oishi Park and Mount Kachi Ropeway; or activities, such as fruit picking, wine tasting, or a soak in a traditional onsen (hot spring). Mount Fuji’s 5th Station also serves as the starting point for hikes to the summit. From 5th Station, the observation point offers unobstructed views of Fuji Five Lakes, Fujiyoshida City, and Lake Yamanaka.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If visiting other attractions by public transport, purchase the Hakone Free Pass for access to many of park’s lakes, funiculars, boats, and buses, including the bus to Mount Fuji’s 5th Station.
- The mountains can get cold even in summer, so bring warm clothing. Comfortable walking shoes are a must if you plan on hiking.
- Visitor facilities include car parking, coin lockers, hiking supplies shops, cafés, and restaurants.
- Mount Fuji’s 5th Station is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
5th Station is accessible via the Subaru Line toll road; buses leave from Mount Fuji (Fujisan) or Kawaguchiko Station. From Tokyo, you can journey by car or by train to Fujisan or Kawaguchiko, via Otsuki. During summer, the Shinjuku Expressway Bus runs directly from Shinjuku station in Tokyo to Mount Fuji’s 5th Station.
When to Get There
Weather permitting, it’s possible to visit Mount Fuji’s 5th Station year-round. During summer, when the hiking trail is open (July to mid-September), the station can get extremely busy, and the access road is closed to private vehicles—shuttle buses run between car parks at the bottom of the mountain. In winter, heavy snow can sometimes hinder access.
Climbing Mount Fuji
Scaling the 12,389-feet (3,776-meter) summit of Japan’s highest mountain is a popular challenge for adventurous travelers. Yoshida Trail is the busiest route to the top, with more than 170,000 climbers annually. It’s only open for two months each summer, and the ascent takes between five and six hours, with the descent taking three to four. Many hikers start out in the middle of the night in order to reach the summit in time for sunrise.
Address: Tokyo, Japan
Admission: Varies
From $ 84
Sumida River
Flowing from Arakawa River and running for eight miles (27 kilometers) through the capital before emptying out into Tokyo Bay, Sumida River is Tokyo’s lifeblood. Passing under 26 bridges and feeding a network of scenic canals and waterways, Sumida River offers magnificent views of Tokyo.
The Basics
A boat ride along the Sumida is a scenic way to explore Tokyo, and you can get on the water in a number of ways. Sightseeing cruises aboard spaceship-like cruise ships take in the districts of Asakusa, Hamarikyu, and Odaiba, affording views of Tokyo Tower, Hamarikyu Gardens, Asakusa Temple, Tokyo Skytree, and Rainbow Bridge. Alternatively water taxis hop between various waterfront destinations, and day cruises run out into Tokyo Bay. Boat cruises are often combined with other city tours and attractions, such as a tour of Tokyo's Asakusa area, a walking tour of Tsukiji Fish Market, or a visit to Tokyo Tower.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Sightseeing cruises typically last about 40 minutes.
- Most boats have an open-air viewing deck, as well as indoor seating with panoramic windows.
- Audio guides are available onboard sightseeing boats in English, Chinese, and Korean.
- Limited tickets are available day-of, so it’s best to book cruise tickets in advance.
- Most boats are wheelchair accessible, but confirm with individual operators before booking.
How to Get to There
Boat cruises run from Hinode Pier, Asakusa, and Hamarikyu Gardens, and it’s possible to board at all three stops. The closest subway stations for Hinode Pier are Hinode (Yurikamome) or JR Hamamatsucho; the closest station for Asakusa is Asakusa (Ginza Line); the closest station for Hamarikyu is Kachidoki (Toei Oedo Line).
When to Get There
Sumida River cruises run regularly year–round, but for the most atmospheric views, opt for a sunset sightseeing cruise or a night cruise. For an even more unforgettable experience, book a cruise to coincide with Sumida River Firework Festival, held in July, and watch the spectacular firework displays against a backdrop of the illuminated city.
Views of the Sumida River
A boat cruise isn’t the only way to enjoy a view of Sumida River. Take a stroll around the waterfront Odaiba Seaside Park for a view with Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower in the background, enjoy a ride on the giant Ferris wheel at Palette Town in Odaiba, watch the sunset along the river from the Roppongi Hills, or soar overhead on a helicopter tour.
Address: Tokyo, Japan
Admission: Free
From $ 41
Kawaguchi Lake
Kawaguchi Lake has the second largest surface area of the Fuji Five Lakes. It also has the longest shoreline, as well as the lowest elevation. The lake is situated at an altitude of around 800 meters, which means it has relatively cool summers followed by freezing cold winters.
The lake serves at the main hub for those looking to climb Mount Fuji during the climbing season (July and August), and is the most popular of the Fuji Five Lakes in terms of tourism. Hotels, camp sites, museums, hot spring baths, windsurfing, fishing, and boat trips all readily available in and around the lake.
A classic-style bus runs along the lakeside, transporting visitors to all of the shoreline’s activities and attractions. The route can also be walked or cycled for those looking for a more active way to explore.
Practical Info
Kawaguchi Lake is the most easily accessible of the Fuji Five Lakes, being just a 10-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station, with a number of buses also serving the area.
Address: Fujikawaguchiko, Narusawa, Yamanashi Prefecture 401-0301, Japan
From $ 54
Kappabashi
Take a stroll down Kappabashi Street in downtown Tokyo and you’ll quickly understand why the area has been nicknamed Kitchen Town. In a city with more Michelin stars than Paris and London combined, chefs come to this place to shop for everything from sashimi knives and kitchen equipment to fake sample food. Stretching over half a mile, it’s Japan’s largest shopping street devoted solely to the culinary arts.
While the typical visitor likely isn’t in the market for kitchenware, the street is still worth a visit for its cultural significance, as well as for the opportunity to pick up some rather unique souvenirs, like plastic sushi or rice crackers shaped like super heroes.
Practical Info
Kappabashi is a large area, so remember to wear comfortable walking shoes. Tawaramachi Station on the Ginza Line is just a short walk away.
Address: Kappabashi Street, Tokyo, Japan
From $ 157