Tokyo: Hidden Gems and Popular Spots

This sculpture commemorates the French Year in Japan. It looks like a thin golden flame rising from the ground, a reference to the victories of Napoleon III. Made from aluminum and bronze, then covered in gold leaf.

Also known as Asakusa Shrine, this is Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, honoring Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The complex has a main hall, a five story pagoda, and big gates at the entries.

Great spot to enjoy the beauty of Rainbow Bridge, Odaiba Beach, and the Tokyo skyline. There is a Statue of Liberty replica here, first set up in 1998 as a temporary exhibit to celebrate Japan and France friendship.

Tokyo Skytree is the world’s tallest freestanding broadcasting tower. The design is impressive, and prices to go inside are pretty reasonable. Inside you will find lots of shops, including a gift shop with plenty of souvenirs to pick from.

Tokyo Tower, similar to the Eiffel Tower, shows how tradition and modern life sit together in Japan’s capital. It is painted bright orange and white to meet aviation rules, and the evening lights are really impressive.

Cute little cafe where you can pet and watch different owl species. You can pick small or big ones, and read about their character traits while you hang out. Super cute, honestly.

Large 8-floor mall with popular brand shops, goods, restaurants, an entertainment center, and events. The highlight is the life size Unicorn Gundam outside. There is a Mugiwara store too if you love One Piece.

Big discount store selling groceries, toys, footwear, and more. On the second floor you’ll find groceries and plenty of prepared foods. It’s one of the largest MEGA Don Quijote, and you can spot more down to earth items instead of just souvenirs and cute stuff.

Colorful shopping hub with street stalls and big department stores like Yodobashi Multimedia Akiba. Whole neighborhood for anime, gaming, figurines, retro consoles, and gadgets. There are restaurants, maid cafes, and spots with fresh baked sweets worth a quick stop.

Massive GU store with five floors of fashionable picks at budget prices. Sister brand of Uniqlo, simple minimalist style. Staff are super kind and helpful.

Zojo ji is the main temple of Jodo shu Buddhism, set right in front of Tokyo Tower. The grounds feel serene and a bit majestic, with shrines, memorials, and a tree planted by former US president Ulysses S. Grant in 1879.

Godzilla Head in Kabukicho is an attraction worth a quick visit in Shinjuku. The street lights are super unique, and there are lots of restaurants and shops around.

Street with unique shops, small activities, and food and drink spots. A little crowded but so worth it. Not many restaurants, but there are stalls like crepes, potatoes, and cheese sticks. Most places take cash and cards, still better bring some cash just in case.

Delicious ramen here, and the staff is super friendly. The shoyu broth is tasty but not too salty, and the chicken based soup is dense, rich, and really good.

Unique shopping mall right outside Tokyo Disneyland. Lots of shops, food places, and other things going on.

Shopping mall with a large supermarket, a food court with Burger King, Daiso 100 yen store, pet shop, electronics stores, and several fashion shops. There is also an entertainment zone on the top floor.

The Ramen Museum is a fun, unique stop for any ramen lover. Retro style setting that makes it seem you step back in time. Packed with the history and culture behind this dish.