Explore Tokyo's Unmissable Must-Dos Before Departure
In the bustling city of Tokyo, where neon lights and skyscrapers dominate the skyline, there lies a world of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Beyond the usual tourist hotspots like Shibuya Crossing and Tokyo Tower, Tokyo offers a wealth of cultural experiences and attractions that provide authentic insights into its history, art, and daily life.
For those seeking a taste of the lesser-known, Haruko Saruwatari, a licensed guide in Kamakura, recommends visiting the lesser-known temple Kakuonji. Kamakura, a former Japanese capital from 1185 to 1333, is located an hour by train to the southwest and is home to the Kotokuin temple, which houses a 103-ton bronze statue of Amida, known as the Great Buddha, dating back to the 1200s.
In Tokyo itself, the Sumida Hokusai Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. This museum showcases ukiyo-e woodblock prints by the legendary artist Hokusai, with affordable admission of just ¥400. The Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum, another hidden gem, hosts rotating exhibits of sculptures, paintings, and ceramics in a historic setting.
For a unique and educational experience, the Meguro Parasitological Museum, the world’s only parasite museum, offers free admission. The Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, where you can walk through relocated historic buildings from the Edo and Meiji periods, is another fascinating destination (entry ¥400).
For those seeking a more hands-on cultural immersion, taking a calligraphy (shodo) workshop or joining a traditional tea ceremony with kimono experience inside tatami rooms is highly recommended. The Kosanji Temple Café, a Buddhist temple where monks DJ and serve coffee, is a blend of traditional and modern culture rarely seen elsewhere.
Strolling through the old-world neighborhood of Kagurazaka, once home to geisha houses, offers a charming atmosphere with narrow alleys. Trying less common Japanese foods like charcoal black ramen at Gogyo Ramen or monjayaki on Tokyo’s Monja Street in Tsukishima is a culinary adventure.
Exploring the Yanaka district on a walking tour is a great way to experience one of Tokyo’s few areas that survived WWII bombings, preserving a nostalgic, old-town atmosphere with temples, shops, and local culture. The Tokyo Toilet Project, innovative public restrooms that combine architectural creativity with practical design, and the Toto Showroom, showcasing cutting-edge Japanese toilet technology, are also worth a visit.
For those seeking a more traditional cultural experience, At Maikoya in Asakusa, visitors can try on a kimono and participate in a traditional tea ceremony in English. Well-priced tasting menus can be found at some high-end restaurants in Tokyo, such as omakase-style sushi at Menatan for 7,700 Japanese Yen and a Michelin-starred kaiseki course at Seisoka for 30,000 Japanese Yen or more.
These culturally rich activities and sites provide a unique and authentic glimpse into Tokyo’s history, art, and daily life beyond the typical tourist landmarks. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, these hidden gems are sure to enrich your Tokyo experience.
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- The city of Tokyo, beyond its modern skyline and iconic landmarks, hides the Kakuonji temple in Kamakura, a lesser-known gem that offers a glimpse into Japan's history.
- For art enthusiasts, the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum and the Sumida Hokusai Museum are hidden gems that showcase Japanese art and history.
- While exploring Tokyo, a visit to the Meguro Parasitological Museum or the Kosanji Temple Café offers unique insights into the city's lifestyle and cultural blend.
