Tokyo Travel Gold: Landmarks, Local Eats & Hidden Streets You Can’t Miss

Sensoji Temple (Asakusa): Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, founded in AD 628. Sensoji dazzles with its massive Kaminarimon (“Thunder Gate”), vibrant Nakamise shopping street and rich cultural heritage, making it an unmissable dive into Japan’s past.

Meiji Shrine (Harajuku): Nestled in a sprawling evergreen forest. Meiji Jingu honors Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, offering a serene contrast to nearby Harajuku’s bustle and a chance to participate in traditional rituals.

Tokyo Skytree (Sumida): Soaring 634 m, Tokyo Skytree is the world’s tallest broadcast tower. It features two observation decks with 360° views, a shopping complex and an aquarium at its base .

Shibuya Crossing: Experience the world’s busiest pedestrian scramble at Shibuya Crossing. Up to 2,500 people cross from all directions each light change — surrounded by giant video screens and neon lights.

Imperial Palace & East Gardens: Home to Japan’s Imperial Family. The palace grounds and meticulously manicured East Gardens offer a blend of history, architecture and seasonal flora right in the city center.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: This 144acre oasis melds traditional Japanese, English and French garden styles. It is popular for cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.

Tokyo Tower: Standing at 333 m tall, Tokyo Tower was completed in 1958 and offers panoramic views from its observation decks. It symbolizes Tokyo’s postwar rebirth and was modeled after Paris’ Eiffel Tower.

Hidden & Instagrammable gems

Gotokuji Temple (Setagaya): Known as the birthplace of the Manekineko (beckoning cat). Gotokuji’s temple grounds are littered with thousands of cat statues, creating a whimsical, photogenic scene

Nezu Shrine (Bunkyo): Dating back to 1705. Nezu Shrine’s vermilion torii gate tunnel rivals Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari and bursts into a riot of color when its azaleas bloom in late April .

ShiroHige’s Cream Puff Factory (Setagaya): This Studio Ghibli — inspired bakery specializes in Totoroshaped cream puffs filled with rich custard or matcha cream. This is a must-try for dessert lovers and “Ghibli geeks” alike.

Yanaka Ginza (Taito): Stroll this nostalgic, narrow shopping street, where locals sell taiyaki, skewered dango and handmade crafts against a backdrop of “cat town” alleyways and real kitties .

2D Café ShinOkubo (Shinjuku): Step into a monochrome, manga style world. Tables and chairs appear two dimensional, and indulge in bubble tea, kakigori, and 2Doutlined cakes perfect for your Insta feed.

Tsukiji Outer Market: A seafood paradise where over 400 vendors sell fresh sushi, kaisendon (seafood bowls), and Japanese kitchenware. Arrive early around 8 am to watch chefs and buyers haggle over the day’s catch.

Ichiran Ramen (Shibuya): Famous for its rich, creamy tonkotsu broth and private “flavorconcentration” booths. Ichiran lets you customize every element — noodle firmness to spice level — for the ultimate solo ramen experience.

Omoide Yokocho (Shinjuku): Also known as “Memory Lane,” this labyrinth of narrow alleys is lined with tiny yakitori and motsuyaki stalls. Grab grilled chicken skewers and a cold beer to soak up the lively, postwar atmosphere.

Tsukishima Monja Street: Sample monjayaki — Tokyo’s gooey, griddle-fried pancake — at any of the 75+ restaurants on this covered street. Watch and cook your monja right at your table for a fun group activity.

Konbini Snacks (Citywide): Don’t overlook Japan’s konbini (convenience stores). Grab an onigiri rice ball from 7Eleven or a crispy Famichiki fried chicken from Family Mart for a quick, walletfriendly bite.