7 Superb Tokyo Travel Attractions

Tokyo offers something for everyone in terms of attractions. There are traditional experiences like visiting temples or watching sumo tournaments; trendy spots such as shopping and dining in Shinjuku; as well as beautiful nature spots to discover.

Tokyo offers many offbeat activities for visitors. A maid cafe (there are numerous in Akihabara) may provide some entertaining diversion. Or consider visiting Meiji Jingu Shrine where there’s a tranquil forest to stroll through while admiring fantastic torii gates. Consider Shanghai to Tokyo Cathay Pacific flights to get in.

1. Tokyo Skytree

Skytree, Tokyo’s iconic symbol, and must-see attraction, has quickly become one of the city’s must-sees since opening its doors to visitors in 2012. Since 2012, it has become the world’s tallest freestanding tower and its observation decks provide stunning bird’s-eye views of Kanto plain. Climb up to Tembo deck for even better cityscape views–on clear days Mt. Fuji may even come into view!

The upper deck, known as Tembo Galleria, provides visitors with an incredible panoramic view of Tokyo and its surrounding mountains. Non-Japanese passport holders can purchase tickets from the Fast Skytree Ticket area on floor 4F of Tokyo Solamachi shopping center.

Skytree boasts over 300 shops, eateries and other attractions at its base – such as a planetarium and aquarium – making it not only an observation deck but also an all-day destination when weather makes going outdoors too challenging. Souvenir zones feature Hello Kitty merchandise while restaurant menus range from cheap eats to fine dining experiences; plus there are numerous gift-buying opportunities, like at Postal Museum Japan where English/foreign language explanations provide insight into Japanese postal system history and system.

2. Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower stands 333 meters tall and was inspired by Paris’ Eiffel Tower. Though primarily a practical purpose, travelers can use this orange and white tower as an observation deck to take in breathtaking views of their surrounding cityscape.

The main deck at 150 meters can be reached either via elevator or the 600-step staircase (both paid). It offers breathtaking views of the city from vertiginous floor sections, and particularly stunning illuminations of various hues throughout the year.

Travelers looking for elevated views of their destination should purchase tickets to the Top Deck Observatory. Accessible by elevator from the main deck, this smaller observatory provides more circular viewing space with higher vantage points.

Tokyo Tower’s main and Top Decks feature various attractions to keep visitors amused, such as a cafe, souvenir shop and club (such as this autumn’s Halloween-themed projection mapping! ). Furthermore, Foot Town at its base features shops, restaurants and amusement parks at reasonable prices compared to other tourist destinations.

3. Nezu Shrine

Tokyo may be home to millions of people, yet there are also peaceful spots like Nezu Shrine that offer peace and solitude amidst this city of millions. Although Nezu Shrine may look like something straight out of Kyoto with its beautiful torii tunnel and blooming azalea blooming above, its location in Bunkyo Ward reveals traditional Japan at its finest.

This shrine is best-known for its over 100 different varieties of azalea flowers in its garden, drawing large crowds for the Bunkyo Azalea Festival every April; but even out-of-season it still makes for beautiful scenery to take in. Additionally, one of its standout features is its eye-catching Oden-dai Hall which boasts golden details and vibrant hues that stand out.

The shrine dates back over 1,300 years and is celebrated for being one of only a few buildings to survive all major fires and bombings throughout Japan’s turbulent history. A must-visit for anyone wanting a taste of traditional Japan and seeking refuge from city life, especially popular with locals who come here to write their wishes on wooden plaques called ema and hang them at the shrine so kami may see.

4. Ueno Zoo

Tokyo, home to skyscrapers and other concrete constructs, is also home to a trio of simulated jungles – its zoos. Of these, Ueno Zoo is the most popular and renowned. The main attraction here is its pandas, Shin-Shin and Ri-Ri, gifted from China. But the zoo is also home to other animals, including tigers, gorillas and the rare African okapi (forest giraffe).

You’ll find several different areas of the zoo to explore. The East Garden, for example, houses giant pandas, elephants, monkeys and other species native to Japan. Alternatively, head to the West Garden for African animals such as hippos and giraffes.

A monorail runs through the zoo, which is helpful in getting around the park. But be careful not to ride it if you have a stroller or other luggage. There are also many restaurant, snack stalls and souvenir shops inside the zoo. Do not feed the animals or crows or pigeons, and smoke only in designated areas. Children under 3 are free. Open daily from 9:30 until 17:00, except for Mondays (closed Tuesday if Monday is a holiday) and 29 December through 1 January. Admission is by age/grade. Parking available. The zoo is located inside Ueno Park, a 5 minute walk from JR Ueno Station’s Benten Gate and the eastern Kan’ei-ji Temple entrance or a 4 minute walk from Keisei Ueno Station, and 8 minutes from Ueno Station on the Ginza and Hibiya lines.

5. Tokyo National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park is one of Japan’s premier museums and widely renowned for its extensive collections of Japanese art. Additionally, this institution houses books, rubbings, and photographs related to fine arts.

Honkan, with its mix of western architecture and Japanese elements, is an important cultural property. This multi-floor building houses the main gallery that showcases Japanese history through paintings, calligraphy, kimono garments and samurai armor.

Attractions at the museum include Heiseikan Gallery which displays archaeological finds from all regions of Japan. Particularly notable among them are pottery from Jomon period burial figurines made of Haniwa clay burial figurines, ornamental keyhole tombs from Yayoi period ornamental keyhole tombs as well as Samurai armor and weapons displayed.

Museums regularly host temporary special exhibitions with specific themes that require separate admission tickets not covered by your museum pass. To maximize your visit experience, download GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities mobile app on your smartphone for self-guided tour – it works offline so you don’t need a data plan when traveling abroad!

6. Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum

Visit Tokyo’s museums to gain an insight into its rich culture and history. Designed by acclaimed architect Kunio Maekawa, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum features special exhibitions and thematic showcases to explore. Your guide can tailor a tour suited specifically to your interests by selecting galleries.

Odaiba is an artificial island located south of Tokyo Bay that boasts high-tech entertainment. From robots at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) to amazing displays at MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM, Odaiba provides ample attractions that will keep visitors busy for hours.

Though Tokyo streets may appear endlessly sprawling, beautiful parks and gardens provide some much-needed respite. From Nezu Shrine with its long tunnel of torii gates to Meiji Shrine with its exquisite array of irises – there are numerous stunning sights worth taking note of!

As one of Tokyo’s trendiest areas, Shibuya Scramble Crossing attracts thousands of visitors daily – the world’s busiest crossing with unique shops selling quirky goods. Additionally, Mark City shopping mall features plenty of small stores selling quirky merchandise, making for an enjoyable shopping experience for everyone.

7. Yomiuriland

Yomiuriland has long been a favourite destination of Tokyo residents since 1964, offering 43 attractions that provide thrills ranging from giant ferris wheels and bungee jumps to some unique rides and activities unique to Yomiuriland! Experience all this park has to offer today!

Yomiuriland is known for its rides that highlight Japan’s craftsmanship and industry, particularly the Goodjoba!! area. Here you can experience factories from 5 Japanese industries – automotive, food, fashion, bungu (stationery), and space. Additionally, children can participate in attractions based on these factories such as making their own cup noodles and fashion accessories!

Pool WAI offers educational fun for visitors of all ages! Kids can splash around in its pools and even ride waterslides!

Reach the park from Shinjuku by taking the Keio Line for about 30 minutes, getting off at Keio Yomiuriland Station and using either Sky Shuttle Gondola or an Odakyu bus service to Keio Yomiuriland Station. While not as large as Disneyland or Tokyo Disney Sea in Chiba Prefecture, Tokyo Skytree remains Tokyo’s largest amusement park!