Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to Japan? This enchanting country is filled with an array of captivating destinations waiting to be explored. From ancient temples to modern wonders, Japan offers something for every traveler’s taste. Let’s dive into the essence of five incredible places we’ve covered so far.
1. Ghibli Museum
Address: 1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo, Japan
Operating hours: Weekdays 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM / Weekends 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Phone: 0570-055-777
The Ghibli Museum (三鷹の森ジブリ美術館), which opened in 2001, is located inside Inokashira Park. Designed and created by the renowned director Hayao Miyazaki himself, the museum features many exhibits that children love, making it an ideal destination for family trips. However, please note that photography is not allowed inside the museum, except for the iconic statue of Laputa on the rooftop garden, where photography is permitted.
To visit the Ghibli Museum, you must reserve tickets in advance on the official website. (Tickets are not sold on-site, so advance reservation is necessary.) The admission fees are as follows: 1,000 yen for ages 19 and above, 700 yen for ages 13-18, 400 yen for ages 7-12, and 100 yen for ages 4-6.
2. Sensoji & Kaminarimon
Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Phone: 03-3842-0181
One of Tokyo’s most well-known tourist destinations is Sensoji, the city’s oldest Buddhist temple. It is one of Japan’s top tourist sites since it is always crowded with travelers, receiving between 30 and 40 million tourists each year. The well-known Kaminarimon, the main gate, is one of Sensoji’s features. In front of the gate, several visitors pose for pictures. Don’t pass up the opportunity to explore Nakamise Dori Street, which is close to Sensoji and sells a variety of food and delectable delights.
3. Tokyo Sky Tree & Tokyo Solamachi
Address: 1-2 Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Phone: 0570-550-634
At 634 meters tall, Tokyo Sky Tree () is now the tallest building in the world. If you have time, you can browse the stores on the 4th floor of Tokyo Solamachi before going to the entrance to the Tokyo Sky Tree. Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria are the two viewing decks on the Tokyo Sky Tree. Tembo Deck provides an incredible and well-liked tourist experience by presenting a 360-degree panoramic view of Tokyo through its floor to ceiling glass windows. A slightly different view is available if you climb to Tembo Galleria, which is located higher up.
Furthermore, both Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria host regular themed exhibitions. You can enjoy limited edition Sky Tree-themed food and drinks at the cafes while admiring the views. The combined ticket to access both Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria costs 3,100 yen. If you make a reservation on the official website in advance, you can receive a discount of 400 yen.
4. Omoide Yokocho
Address: 1-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Phone: 03-3364-3235
Shinjuku Gyoen and Omoide Yokocho (), which are both close to Shinjuku Station, are both easily reachable by foot. Omoide Yokocho, which means “Memory Lane” in Japanese, is lined by izakayas (Japanese bars) that serve yakitori and beverages. It’s the ideal location for a delectable evening supper. Every evening, the smoke rising from the skewers and the mouthwatering aroma of grilled meats create a nostalgic and traditional ambiance in this alley designed in the Japanese style.
For an enjoyable dinner, head to Omoide Yokocho! You’ll find a variety of delicious eateries to choose from. Moreover, many of Tokyo’s department stores are located near Shinjuku Station, making it convenient for some post-dinner shopping. If you have time in the evening, Omoide Yokocho comes highly recommended!
5. Shinjuku Gyoen
Address: 11 Naito-machi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Phone: 03-3350-0151
You must visit a park if you go to Japan! Japanese parks are ideal for leisurely afternoon strolls since they have a rich history, feature stunning traditional gardens, and have calm natural settings. Tokyo’s Shinjuku Gyoen () offers city inhabitants a haven where they can unwind in a forest-like setting and spend some soothing time in one of three distinctive garden styles: Japanese garden, formal garden, or landscape garden.
Shinjuku Gyoen boasts a variety of rich seasonal flowers, allowing visitors to witness different landscapes throughout the year. In autumn, you can admire the colorful autumn foliage, and in spring, 1,500 cherry blossom trees paint the park in pink hues. Capture beautiful moments through photography amidst the stunning nature or enjoy a pleasant time with a packed lunch (bento) while savoring the scenery. It’s an opportunity to create happy memories!