Itinerary
Stepping into Asakusa feels like traveling back to the Edo period, anchored by Tokyo's oldest and most significant Buddhist temple. The atmosphere here is vibrant and spiritual, dominated by the massive red lantern of the Kaminarimon Gate that greets visitors at the entrance. Walking down the Nakamise-dori shopping street, the air is filled with the scent of roasted rice crackers and sweet bean paste. [Highlights] Admire the five-story pagoda adjacent to the main hall, which creates a stunning silhouette against the sky. Don't miss the cleansing ritual at the incense burner (jokoro); locals wave smoke over their bodies to ward off illness. [Tips] For the best photo of the Kaminarimon without massive crowds, try shooting from the tourist information center across the street. Be sure to try a freshly baked *ningyo-yaki* (doll-shaped sponge cake) from a vendor on Nakamise-dori.
Rising 634 meters above the Sumida district, this broadcasting tower offers the most comprehensive aerial views of the Kanto region. Unlike the classic Tokyo Tower, the Skytree features a futuristic design that lights up in alternating colors like 'Iki' (blue) and 'Miyabi' (purple) after dark. The transition from day to night provides a spectacular transformation of the urban sprawl into a glittering sea of lights. [Highlights] The Tembo Deck at 350 meters features glass floor panels that test your courage by looking straight down to the streets below. The higher Tembo Galleria at 450 meters offers a sloping spiral ramp that makes you feel like you are walking in the sky. [Tips] Book tickets online in advance to skip the long ticket counter lines. If the weather is exceptionally clear, look west to catch a silhouette of Mount Fuji against the setting sun.
Located just steps away from the noise of Harajuku, this Shinto shrine is a miraculous forest sanctuary in the heart of the metropolis. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the grounds are covered by over 100,000 trees donated from across Japan, creating a dense canopy that blocks out the city sounds. The gravel path crunching underfoot prepares your mind for a spiritual encounter. [Highlights] The massive wooden Torii gates are among the largest in Japan, crafted from 1,500-year-old cypress. Check out the wall of decorative sake barrels (Kazaridaru) donated by brewers nationwide, which sits opposite a wall of wine barrels from France. [Tips] Visit the Inner Garden (requires a small fee) to see the Kiyomasa's Well, a famous spiritual 'power spot.' If you visit on a Sunday morning, you have a high chance of witnessing a traditional Shinto wedding procession.
This narrow 350-meter pedestrian street is the global epicenter of 'Kawaii' culture and teenage fashion. It is a sensory overload of pastel colors, loud pop music, and eccentric clothing boutiques. Even if you aren't shopping for gothic lolita dresses or platform shoes, the sheer energy of the crowds and the visual spectacle make it an essential modern Tokyo experience. [Highlights] Look for unique snacks like rainbow cotton candy larger than your head or the famous Harajuku crêpes filled with cheesecake and fruits. The purikura (photo booth) centers here are legendary, offering extreme filters and digital makeup. [Tips] The street gets incredibly crowded on weekends. For a breather, duck into the side streets (Ura-Harajuku) where you'll find more sophisticated streetwear brands and quieter vintage clothing shops.
Often called the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world, this is the definitive image of modern Tokyo. When the traffic lights turn red, up to 3,000 people flood the street from all directions, effortlessly dodging each other in a chaotic yet organized dance. It represents the pulse of the city like nowhere else. [Highlights] The Hachiko Statue, located just outside the station's Hachiko Exit, commemorates the loyal dog who waited for his master for nine years. It is the city's most famous meeting point. The surrounding billboards and giant video screens create a Blade Runner-esque atmosphere. [Tips] For the best overhead view, head to the Mag's Park rooftop at the MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 building or the Starbucks on the second floor of the Tsutaya building (though seats are hard to get). Shibuya Sky offers an even higher, open-air perspective if you book in advance.
Tucked away near the west exit of Shinjuku Station, 'Memory Lane' (also known as Piss Alley) is a nostalgic labyrinth of tiny eateries that survived the post-war era. Lanterns glow red against the smoke of charcoal grills, and narrow counters force strangers to sit shoulder-to-shoulder. It offers a stark, gritty contrast to the polished skyscrapers of the nearby government district. [Highlights] The specialty here is Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and Motsuyaki (grilled offal). The atmosphere is thick with the aroma of tare sauce and cigarette smoke, preserving the Showa-era vibe perfectly. [Tips] Many stalls have English menus, but some are locals-only. Look for places with customers already inside. Be prepared to pay a small 'otoshi' (table charge) which usually includes a small appetizer. Restrooms are scarce and shared, so plan accordingly.
Although the wholesale auction moved to Toyosu, the Tsukiji Outer Market remains the soul of Tokyo's food culture. The narrow alleys are packed with vendors selling everything from dried bonito flakes to professional kitchen knives. It is the premier breakfast spot for sushi lovers who want the freshest catch available. [Highlights] Feast on a Kaisendon (seafood bowl) loaded with uni (sea urchin), ikura (salmon roe), and fatty tuna. Watch the masters prepare Tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelet) in square pans, serving them steaming hot on sticks for a quick snack. [Tips] Arrive early, as popular sushi counters like Sushi Dai or Daiwa Sushi have long queues. Don't block the narrow paths with luggage. Try the grilled scallops or fresh oysters sold at street stalls for a walking breakfast.
Located on the former site of Edo Castle's innermost circles of defense, this garden offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Shogunate. While the main palace is closed to the public, these meticulously maintained gardens are open and free. Massive stone walls and moats surround the area, serving as a reminder of the castle's military history amidst the modern business district. [Highlights] The Ninomaru Garden is a stunning traditional Japanese strolling garden, featuring a pond, iris garden, and manicured pines. You can also climb the foundation of the former main keep (Tenshudai) for a panoramic view of the gardens and the surrounding skyscrapers. [Tips] Entrance is free, but you must collect a token at the gate and return it upon exit. The gardens are closed on Mondays and Fridays, so check the schedule. It gets hot in summer with little shade, so bring water.