Tokyo, Japan - Attractions

The Kaminari Gate at Sensoji Temple, Asakusa

See

Tokyo has a vast array of sights, but the first items on the agenda of most visitors are Sensoji Temple in Tokyo/Asakusa | Asakusa, the gardens of the Imperial Palace (in Tokyo/Chiyoda|Chiyoda) and the Meiji Shrine (in Tokyo/Harajuku|Harajuku).

Tokyo has many commercial centres for shopping, eating and simply wandering around for experiencing the modern Japanese urban phenomenon. Each of these areas have unique characteristics, such as dazzling Shinjuku, youthful Shibuya and upmarket Ginza. These areas are bustling throughout the day, but they really come into life in the evenings.

If you're looking for a viewing platform, the Tokyo Tower is the best known but a rather overpriced, not to say uninspiring, choice. The highest spot in Tokyo is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building (in effect, Tokyo's City Hall) in Tokyo/Shinjuku|Shinjuku. Its twin towers have viewing platforms that are absolutely free, and offer a great view over Tokyo and beyond. However, the best option would probably be from the World Trade Center Building (10:00-20:00, or 21:00 in July and August, 620 yen) at JR Hamamatsucho station which, although not as high, offers stunning views of Tokyo Tower and the waterfront due to its excellent location, especially at dusk. A recent addition to the viewing platforms around Tokyo is Tokyo City View in Roppongi Hills, Tokyo/Roppongi | Roppongi -- admission is a steep ¥1500, but includes admission to the Mori Art Museum. Another good option, if you don't mind traffic noise and smell, is the Rainbow Bridge at Tokyo/Odaiba|Odaiba, whose pedestrian walkways are free. The night-time view across Tokyo Bay is impressive but the walkways close at 8:00 pm.

Museums

The city is dotted with museums, large and small, which center on every possible interest from pens to antique clocks to traditional and modern arts. Many of the largest museums are clustered around Tokyo/Ueno | Ueno. At ¥500 to ¥1,000 or more, entrance fees can add up quickly, but the GRUTT Pass [1] allows access to 56 of them for a flat ¥2000 fee. The pass can be purchased from any participating museum and is valid for two months.

Itineraries

One day in Tokyo may include:

• The Imperial Palace (exterior)
• Ginza (visit the department stores)
• Sensoji Temple and the Nakamise Arcade in Asakusa
• Tokyo Tower
• The Meiji Shrine