Tokyo, Japan: My Top 5 Things to See & Do
Tokyo, a technologically advanced mega city with an estimated 37 million inhabitants, 60,000 restaurants and a convenient vending machine at every turn.
My Top 5 Things to See & Do
Number 1: The Iconic Tokyo Tower inspired by La Tour Eiffel (the Eiffel tower) in the Shiba-koen district of Minato Tokyo
It was built in 1958 as a communications and observation tower. Standing at 333 meters or 1092 feet, it is the second tallest structure in Japan.
Here, you’ll get amazing views of the city when you check out the observation deck. Underneath the tower, there is a four storey building called FootTown which houses museums, shopping and restaurants.
Number 2: Tokyo Imperial Palace – the main residence of the Emperor of Japan & located in the Chiyoda district of the Chiyoda ward of Tokyo
Here, you’ll also get to see Fukiage Palace, the Emperor’s residence, the main palace Kyuden that holds receptions and ceremonies, residences of the Imperial Family, museums, and an archive.
The modern-day Imperial Palace sits atop old remnants of Edo Castle built in 1457. You’ll notice remaining walls, moats, and ramparts that survive to this day.
Number 3: Shibuya Scramble Square at Shibuya Station
The must-see iconic scramble crossing is a model for major cities around the world prioritizing pedestrians over cars. Every few minutes, you’ll see hundreds of people crossing this major urban intersection in all directions.
Shibuya station is an energetic place with lots of lights and people. Here, you’ll get a sense of downtown Tokyo. Venture to a rooftop show nearby to experience the city from above. This bustling neighbourhood is known for its shopping, nightlife and of course, the iconic scramble.
Number 4: Piss Alley (Omoide Yokocho) in Shinjuku neighborhood
Located in the bustling Shinjuku neighborhood of Tokyo, Piss Alley also called Omoide Yokocho meaning “Memory Lane” is a narrow and quaintly decorated street filled with bars and street food stalls.
The history of Piss Alley dates back to the post-WW2 era when it was a black market filled with illegal bars and gambling dens. Patrons would gather to drink and socialize and with a lack of bathroom facilities, they would relieve themselves by the nearby train tracks, hence the name Piss Alley.
It was later cleaned up and transformed into the vibrant dining destination it is today while holding onto it’s old Japanese Showa-era charm.
Walk down this alley and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time of Old Japan.
Number 5: Meiji Shrine in Shibuya neighborhood
A peaceful escape from the city and still located in the bustling Shibuya neighborhood, the Meiji Shrine is an oasis hidden away in a forest. It is dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken.
Completed in 1920, Meiji Shrine is known for its traditional Japanese architecture and peaceful atmosphere making it a popular choice for weddings.
In order to get to the shrine, visitors walk through a beautifully lined path of towering trees to set the ambiance.
Arriving at the shrine, there is a main hall where visitors can pray and make offerings. In Japanese culture, the concept of “wa” or harmony is highly valued and they place a strong emphasis on maintaining peace and tranquility in their daily lives, especially in urban areas like Tokyo.
To Summarize
If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, be sure to check out these top 5 places: Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Imperial Palace, Shibuya Scramble, Piss Alley (Omoide Yokocho), Meiji Shrine