Tokyo is a city that never ceases to amaze and inspire. It is a city where the past and the future coexist, where tradition and innovation blend, and where culture and entertainment abound.
In Tokyo, you can experience the best of Japan in one city. You can watch a kabuki performance, join a tea ceremony, visit ancient temples and shrines, or admire the iconic Mount Fuji. You can also dive into the pop culture of Akihabara, taste the freshest seafood at the Tsukiji fish market, explore the trendy neighborhoods of Shibuya and Shinjuku, or enjoy the panoramic views from the Tokyo Skytree.
It is a city that will surprise you, delight you, and make you fall in love with it. It is a city that you will never, ever forget.
Here are the 10 best things to do in Tokyo:
1. Discover the Samurai history at the Samurai museum
This museum in Shinjuku showcases the weapons, armor, and artifacts of the Samurai warriors. You can also enjoy a free guided tour in English and dress up as a Samurai for a photo opportunity.
2. Taste the Japanese street food at Omoide Yokocho
This alleyway in Shinjuku is a foodie paradise, where you can find delicious grilled skewers, noodles, dumplings, and more. It’s a great place to experience the local atmosphere and the fascinating cuisine.
3. Witness the world’s busiest crossing at Shibuya
Shibuya Crossing is a famous landmark, where thousands of people cross the street at the same time. It’s a sight to behold, especially on weekends. You can also explore the nearby shops and restaurants in this lively area of this magnificent city.
4. Immerse yourself in the anime and gaming culture at Akihabara
Akihabara is the hub of electronics, anime, manga, and video games in Tokyo. You can browse through the countless shops, arcades, and cafes that cater to the fans of these genres. You can also check out the retro game stores that sell SEGA and Nintendo classics.
5. Experience the traditional tea ceremony
Tea is an important part of Japanese culture, and joining a tea ceremony is a unique way to learn about it. The tea ceremony is a ritual that involves preparing and serving tea on a tatami mat, with attention to every detail. It symbolizes purity, calmness, respect, and harmony. You can also rent a kimono (Japan’s traditional attire/clothes) to make the experience more authentic and memorable.
6. Shop for souvenirs
Tokyo has plenty of options for souvenir shopping, from the usual magnets and keychains to the more artistic paper fans, ceramic bowls, kimonos, and Japanese knives. You can find some of the best souvenirs in the Shinjuku and Shibuya districts, as well as the street stalls at Sensoji Temple.
7. Ride a bullet train
Japan is known for its fast and efficient trains, and the bullet trains are the most impressive ones. These trains, called shinkansens, can travel at speeds of over 300 km/h (or about 187 mph). You can ride them on the JR East and JR Central lines near Tokyo, and enjoy the scenic views along the way. If you buy a Japan Rail Pass, you can get unlimited access to JR trains for one, two, or three weeks, which is a great deal for long-distance travel.
8. Visit the oldest and largest temple in Tokyo, Sensoji
Sensoji is a must-see attraction in Tokyo, dating back to the 7th century. It has a stunning 5-story pagoda and a huge paper lantern at the entrance. It’s also a good place to shop for souvenirs, as there are many street shops around the temple.
9. Marvel at the majestic Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest and most iconic mountain. It’s a stunning sight that you can admire from various angles. You can visit the beautiful lakes and the Chureito Pagoda, which offer great views of the mountain. Visitors can also hike up the mountain if you’re feeling adventurous. Mount Fuji used to be a volcano, but it’s been dormant since 1707.
10. Visit the historic Matsumoto Castle
Japan has many Samurai castles from its medieval era, and Matsumoto is one of the best. It’s a striking black-and-white castle that stands out from the landscape. You can learn about the history and culture of the Samurai as you explore the castle. Matsumoto is one of the top 3 Samurai castles in Japan, along with Himeji and Kumamoto.
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