Top 9 Attractions in Tokyo

Tokyo! One of my favorite places in the world! There’s just so much to love about the city. I have been to Tokyo three times in the past two years and I wouldn’t be surprise if I find myself back to this beautiful city in the next twelve months. In my three visits, I have spent a total of 17 days and I have only seen about half of the city. To really see all the attractions both famous and hidden ones, I think you would need to spend at least 20 days here.

Since there is so much to see and do, I am listing my top 9 attractions in Tokyo I would recommend to those planning to visit this city for the first time. Hope this helps!

(If you are planning to go to Nagoya, check out Marcus’ guide to Takayama village and Shirakawa-Go here.)

9. Shibuya Crossing – The busiest intersection in the world!

Tips: Best time to visit the Shibuya crossing is at 7pm. This is the busiest time and where most people cross. This is where you can also find Hachiko’s statue
Nearest train station: Shibuya station (JR Yamanote Line) and Shibuya station (Fukotoshin line)
Google Maps location: Click here

8. Omoide Yokocho – Also known as “Piss Alley” is a tight scrum of around 50 small bars linked by alleys just wide enough for two to pass. The place is thick with smoke, which comes from the grilling of delicious yakitori.

Tips: Expect long lines when visiting but the wait is worth it for the yakitori
Nearest train station: Shinjuku-Nishiguchi (Oedo Line)
Google Maps location: Click here

7. Golden Gai – Shinjuku Golden Gai is a small area of Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan. Over 200 tiny shanty-style bars, clubs and eateries are squeezed into small alleyways. This place is similar to Omoide Yokocho but focused on alcohol rather than the yakitori

Tips: Best place to experience authentic Japanese whiskey while sharing tales with the local bartender. Look for the bars without cover charge to save to costs.
Nearest train station: Shinjuku-Nishiguchi (Oedo Line)
Google Maps location: Click here

6. Tokyo Tower – Japan’s version of the Eiffel Tower. Also a broadcast antenna and a popular tourist spot.

Tips: Buy a ticket to the view deck and visit during sunset. You will get a view of Tokyo during the day and night
Nearest train station: Kamiyacho Station (Hibiya Line)
Google Maps location: Click here

5. Tokyo Sky Tree – The world’s tallest tower at 634 meters.

Tips: Go up the top view deck and get a good glimpe of Mt. Fuji on a clear day
Nearest train station: Oshiage Station SKYTREE (Asakusa Line)
Google Maps location: Click here

4. Harajuku, Takeshita Street – known for its colorful art and fashion center in Tokyo. This is where you’ll see teens wearing cosplay clothes on a normal day.

Tips: Try the soft served ice cream. It’s the best in town!
Nearest train station: Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line)
Google Maps location: Click here

3. Kabukicho – Tokyo’s red light district. This is where you will also find the
Robot Cafe and see a very unique robot show

Tips: Best time to visit at night. The Kabukicho arch is picturesque. Don’t forget to take a good shot!
Nearest train station: Shinjuku-Nishiguchi (Oedo Line)
Google Maps location: Click here

2. Sensoji Temple – The most photographed and oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. Definitely a must see!

Tips: Prepare for huge crowds when going to this temple
Nearest train station: Asakusa Line (Asakusa Station)
Google Maps location: Click here

1. Meiji Shrine – Dedicated to the late Emperor Meiji, it is the most visited religious site in Japan.

Tips: Don’t forget so pass by the wall of sake barrels. It is one of the most photographed places in the shrine.
Nearest train station: Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line)
Google Maps location: Click here