10 FREE Sights in TOKYO


My companion Vins and I’ve been journey running a blog for the previous 15 years and Tokyo is one in every of our favourite cities. The Japanese capital may be identified for its neon-lit streets and high-tech every part, however you don’t have to lay our a fortune to take pleasure in this megacity!

BlogDisclaimer

Imagine it or not, Tokyo is full of superior free experiences — from historic temples to futuristic metropolis views, quirky road scenes, and even some surprising cultural gems. So in the event you’re on a price range (or simply love freebie), this listing is for you!

Listed below are a few of the numerous sights in Tokyo which you could take pleasure in for FREE. Observe that the quantity is just for simple reference and isn’t a sign of any specific rating.

WAIT, WAIT, WAIT! If you’re additionally visiting Osaka, please additionally go to our The Poor Traveler Masterlist. Right here, we compiled journey necessities, together with immigration necessities and all our really useful motels and sights. Simply go to this web page: TPT Masterlist. Then, scroll till you see the part about Osaka. We even have a compilation for different locations all over the world.


WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

1. Tokyo Metropolitan Authorities Constructing

Most vacationers rush to Tokyo SkyTree or Tokyo Tower for these panoramic metropolis views. And that’s very comprehensible. In any case, these are the 2 tallest constructions in Japan. However do you know there’s a option to soak in Tokyo’s skyline at no cost? Enter the Tokyo Metropolitan Authorities Constructing in Shinjuku!

Tokyo Metropolitan Government BuildingTokyo Metropolitan Government Building

This twin-towered beast has two observatories and from right here you’ll be able to see the Tokyo Tower and the Tokyo SkyTree. You’ll be able to even see Mount Fuji on a transparent day. A minimum of that’s what I’ve been instructed. I can’t verify as a result of we visited at evening. But when you can also make it earlier than sundown, that might be tremendous since you’ll get to benefit from the view in daytime, at twilight, and at evening!

It’s utterly free. No entrance payment, however you continue to get these breathtaking cityscapes. The Tokyo Metropolitan Constructing is the final word price range traveler’s hack! As a result of it’s free and there are solely two elevators, count on to fall in line a bit, however the wait is value it.

Deal with: Tokyo Metropolitan Authorities Constructing, 2 Chome-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku Metropolis, Tokyo 163-8001, Japan
Nearest Subway Station: Tocho-mae Station (Toei Oedo Line)
Opening Hours: North Observatory – Each day, 9:30 AM – 11:00 PM (Closed on the primary and third Tuesday of the month); South Observatory – Each day, 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on the second and fourth Monday of the month). The constructing is closed on December 29-31 and January 2-3.


2. Senso-ji (Asakusa Kannon Temple)

Asakusa is among the most well-known neighborhoods in Tokyo, primarily as a result of iconic Senso-ji.

Not solely is it Tokyo’s oldest temple — relationship all the way in which again to 645 AD — it’s additionally some of the visited and visually beautiful landmarks within the metropolis. And the most effective half? It gained’t price you a single yen to go to!

Sensoji 2Sensoji 2
Essential Corridor (High Left), Kaminarimon (High Proper), Hozomon (Backside Left), and Nakamisedori (Backside Proper)

When you’re strolling from Asakusa Station, the primary construction that may greet you is the Kaminarimon (Kaminari Gate), constructed over a thousand years in the past. From right here, you’ll be strolling down Nakamise-dori, a 250m lengthy alley flanked with retailers promoting souvenirs and Japanese snacks. It’s a terrific place to browse, people-watch, or attempt senbei (rice crackers) and taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries) — although in fact, the meals isn’t free! Let’s be clear about that. Don’t simply take these pancakes with out paying! LOL

On the finish, you’ll discover Senso-ji’s major corridor, constructed as a tribute to Kannon, the goddess of mercy. You’ll see guests lighting incense for good luck, making needs on the omikuji (fortune-telling stalls), and admiring the intricate particulars of the temple grounds.

Sensoji 1Sensoji 1

By day, Senso-ji is bustling with power and bursting on the seams with folks, which might be why it’s generally tagged as a vacationer entice, however I disagree. You see, I often go to at evening, when it transforms right into a serene, superbly lit-up web site. Whether or not you’re right here for the historical past, the tradition, or simply the snacks, this temple is an absolute must-visit—and did we point out it’s utterly free?

Deal with: Senso-ji, 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito Metropolis, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Nearest Station: Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, and Tobu Skytree Line)
Opening Hours: Essential Corridor – Each day, 6:00 AM/6:30 AM – 5:00 PM; Grounds – 24/7


3. Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine 1Meiji Shrine 1

The Meiji Shrine is a peaceable oasis proper within the coronary heart of the town. It’s situated in Shibuya, subsequent to the well-known Harajuku district. Cradled inside a lush, 170-acre forest, this sacred web site was inbuilt 1921 in honor of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the beloved rulers who helped modernize Japan within the late nineteenth century.

The shrine grounds are enormous, so take your time and admire the verdant environment and the breath of contemporary air. You’ll move by the huge picket torii gate, and observe the large pathway resulting in the primary shrine.

Meiji Shrine 2Meiji Shrine 2

On the shrine, you’ll be able to witness conventional Shinto rituals, make a want by writing on ema (picket prayer plaques), and even see an occasional Shinto wedding ceremony procession, with {couples} wearing beautiful conventional apparel. When you’re into sake, try the spectacular wall of sake barrels, donated by breweries from throughout Japan as choices to the deities.

Shrine admission is totally free, however the teahouse backyard tucked subsequent to it prices ¥500 per individual.

Mendacity subsequent to the shrine is Yoyogi Park, which you can too entry for FREE! Takeshita-dori, the middle of youth tradition in Tokyo, can be proper throughout the road, and sure, you’ll be able to discover it for FREE too.

However there’s one other iconic spot not too far-off.

Deal with: Meiji Shrine, 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan
Nearest Station: Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line)
Opening Hours: The shrine opens at dawn and closes at sundown. Time varies relying on the month.
Entrance Charge: Essential shrine grounds, FREE; Teahouse backyard, ¥500


4. Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue

Mentioned to be the world’s busiest intersection, Shibuya Crossing completely exemplifies Tokyo’s organized chaos. Regardless that that is most likely probably the most touristy factor to do within the metropolis, be part of the a whole lot (generally over a thousand!) folks flood the intersection abruptly when the lights flip inexperienced.

When you don’t need to be part of the insanity, you’ll be able to simply observe from a quiet distance, perhaps from spots like Shibuya Sky, Magnet by Shibuya 109, and even the adjoining Starbucks retailer (which, by the way in which, is among the busiest branches on the planet). Or fall in line for a second with the statue of Hachiko, probably the most beloved trustworthy canine.

Shibuya Crossing NightShibuya Crossing Night

At evening, this space surrounding Shibuya Station actually comes alive with the type of city power that makes Tokyo really feel straight out of a cyberpunk film.

Whether or not you’re snapping pics, filming a time-lapse, or simply feeling the second, simply being on this space Shibuya is an expertise by itself.

Deal with: Shibuya Crossing, 2-2 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan
Nearest Station: Shibuya Station (JR Yamanote Line)


5. Akihabara

One other space that greatest illustrates Tokyo’s electrical persona is Akihabara. When you love anime, manga, or video video games, that is the place to be — and sure, you’ll be able to see all of it at no cost! Now I’m rhyming!

Akihabara is the otaku’s final mecca and Tokyo’s quirkiest vacation spot. The streets are lined with towering electronics shops, anime billboards, and gachapon (capsule toy) machines so far as the attention can see.

For anime and manga lovers, searching shops like Animate, Mandarake, and Radio Kaikan is virtually a pilgrimage — even in the event you don’t purchase something, simply admiring the sheer quantity of collectibles is definitely worth the journey.

Players? You’ll be able to try basic arcades like Hey and Taito Station. My favourite spot right here might be Tremendous Potato, an unassuming retailer the place you should purchase nostalgic sport consoles from household computer systems to Atari. They even promote old-school Gameboys and tamagochi!

Or simply enter gadget shops! Bic Digicam and Yodobashi have colossal multi-story branches right here!

Akihabara Main StreetAkihabara Main Street

And in the event you’re simply right here for the vibe, take a stroll down Chuo-dori, the primary road, particularly on Sunday afternoon when it turns into a pedestrian-only zone. It’s the easiest way to expertise Akihabara’s distinctive ambiance — with out spending a single yen!

From Akihabara, in the event you preserve strolling north, you’ll finally attain the subsequent FREE merchandise on this listing.

Deal with: Akihabara, Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021, Japan
Nearest Station: Akihabara Station (JR Yamanote Line, JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, and Sobu Line)


6. Ueno Park

However earlier than you arrive in Ueno Park, you’ll be passing by Ameyayokocho, a vibrant purchasing road providing all types of merchandise! However when you make it by the group, you’ll end up on the gates of Ueno Park.

Ueno Park is most well-known as among the best spots to see the cherry blossoms. In spring, the park is flooded with huge crowds — a combination of locals and vacationers, all having fun with the colourful season below the shade of over 1,000 cherry bushes.

However when it’s not sakura season, it’s one in every of Tokyo’s most peaceable corners, particularly within the early morning. Stroll round Shinobazu Pond, the place you’ll discover lotus flowers, turtles, and even a small shrine in the midst of the water. The park itself is freed from cost, however it’s surrounded by six museums, a few of which acquire minimal entrance charges, starting from 500 to 1,000 yen. You’ll be able to spend a couple of hours studying extra concerning the metropolis right here.

Deal with: Ueno Park, 5-20 Uenokoen, Taito Metropolis, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan
Nearest Station: Ueno Station (JR East Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, and Hibiya Line)
Entrance Charge: The park itself is FREE, however some museums cost a payment.

  • Tokyo Metropolitan Artwork Museum: FREE
  • Shitamachi Museum: JPY 300
  • Nationwide Museum of Western Artwork: JPY 500
  • Nationwide Museum of Nature & Science: JPY 650
  • Tokyo Nationwide Museum: JPY 1000
  • Ueno Royal Museum: Charges differ with every exhibition.

7. Oji Inari Shrine

Oji is a type of hidden neighborhoods in Tokyo that the majority vacationers overlook, however in the event you’re the sort who doesn’t at all times like going with the circulate, spending a couple of hours right here may very well be value it! Situated in Kita Ward, Oji has a relaxed, old-Tokyo really feel, which is in full show at its key sights just like the Oji Inari Shrine (to not be confused with Oji Shrine, which can be close by).

Oji Inari Shrine 1Oji Inari Shrine 1

In-built 1822, this shrine is devoted to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and prosperity, and is claimed to be one in every of Tokyo’s oldest Inari shrines. Each New Yr’s Eve, Oji hosts the Fox Parade (Kitsune no Gyoretsu), the place folks put on fox masks and reenact a legend about fox spirits gathering at this shrine!

Subsequent to the primary temple is a brief sequence of torii gates that may take you to a giant rock that’s believed to be miraculous in a manner.

Oji Inari Shrine 2Oji Inari Shrine 2

Devotees maintain this rock whereas considering of what they need to attain, after which, legend has it that if they can raise this rock from its place, that want will come true. In any other case, based on legend, that dream isn’t for you. Vins and I attempted it one by one, and we each have been capable of raise it up. I nonetheless keep in mind what I wanted that point, and YES, it got here true.

Only a brief stroll from the Oji Inari Shrine lies the subsequent free spot on our listing.

Deal with: Oji Inari Shrine, 1 Chome-12-26 Kishimachi, Kita Metropolis, Tokyo 114-0021, Japan
Nearest Tram Station: Oji-ekimae Station (Toden Arakawa Line)
Nearest Practice Station: Oji Station (JR Keihin-Tohoku Line)


8. Asukayama Park

Asukayama Park 1Asukayama Park 1

Asukayama Park is one in every of Tokyo’s OG cherry blossom spots. This park has been a hanami (flower viewing) favourite because the Edo interval. Again then, the Daijō-kan established quite a lot of parks in Tokyo. Amongst them are Ueno Park, Asakusa Park, and Asukayama Park. Whereas others have grow to be crowd-magnets, Asukayama Park stay an oasis of calm in the midst of the town.

Throughout our go to, there was nobody else within the park. We had all of it to ourselves. You’ll additionally discover a few well-preserved trains contained in the park, simply subsequent to a kids’s playground. It additionally has three museums: the Paper Museum, Asukayama Museum, and Shibusawa Memorial Museum.

Asukayama Park 2Asukayama Park 2

We visited in the midst of winter, so there wasn’t a lot colour. However in spring, the park transforms into an unforgettable sakura vacation spot. The park is roofed with cherry bushes, planted within the 18th century. When you’re visiting in late March or early April, as an alternative of going to the crowded Ueno Park, come to Asukayama Park as an alternative and benefit from the cherry blossoms higher.

Each the Oji Inari Shrine and the Asukayama Park are alongside the historic Toden Arakawa Line (aka Tokyo Sakura Tram), Tokyo’s final surviving streetcar line. Simply watching the old-school tram roll by the neighborhood provides to its nostalgic appeal.

Deal with: Asukayama Park, 1 Chome-1-3 Oji, Kita Metropolis, Tokyo 114-0002, Japan
Nearest Tram Station: Asukayama Station (Toden Arakawa Line)
Nearest Practice Station: Oji Station (JR Keihin-Tohoku Line)


9. Odaiba

When you’re in search of a mix of futuristic vibes, beautiful views, and enjoyable sights, look no additional than Odaiba — Tokyo’s waterfront wonderland! Situated on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay, Odaiba is a hotspot for every part from purchasing malls and theme parks to jaw-dropping views of Rainbow Bridge and the long-lasting Gundam Statue.

However the Gundam Statue we noticed a couple of years in the past is not right here. There’s a totally different big Gundam determine within the space however we haven’t visited it but. It’s actually been some time since we have been final right here.

Odaiba Seaside ParkOdaiba Seaside Park
Odaiba Seaside Park

Anyway, you can begin by strolling alongside the waterfront and having fun with the views of the Tokyo skyline, or head to Odaiba Seaside Park, the place you’ll be able to calm down by the seaside or take selfies with the mini Statue of Liberty that stands close to the shore.

The most effective half? Whereas Odaiba is residence to numerous sights that cost a payment, simply wandering across the space and taking within the sights is totally free.

Deal with: Odaiba, Tokyo, Japan
Nearest Station: Daiba Station (Yurikamome Line)


10. Imperial Palace East Gardens

One other construction contained in the palace grounds.

Situated on the web site the place Edo Fort used to face, the Imperial Palace sits on the middle of a giant park, scribbled with large inexperienced moats and colossal stone dykes. Two bridges function the doorway to the inside part: the Maganebashi (Eyeglass Bridge) and Nijubashi (Double Bridge).

However it stays the official residence of the Japanese Imperial Household so you’ll be able to’t simply enter the constructing or the quick space surrounding it. Fortunately, the East Backyard is accessible to anybody year-round (besides Mondays and Fridays).

The remainder of the advanced open to the non-touring public solely twice a 12 months: on January 2nd for Emperor Naruhito’s New Yr Greeting and February twenty third, to have fun his birthday. I haven’t seen the present emperor but, however greater than a decade in the past, I used to be capable of see his father, the previous emperor Akihito. However I nonetheless keep in mind the expertise clearly.

The road snaked from the primary constructing all the way in which to the roads, however it moved quick and in an especially organized vogue. Just some moments after I reached the central grounds, Emperor Akihito, Empress Michiko and the remainder of the royal household made an look and addressed the group. Quickly, everybody cheered on the high of their lungs, “Banzai!”

Deal with: Imperial Palace, 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda Metropolis, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan
Nearest Stations: Otemachi Station (Exit D2), Nijubashi-mae Station (Exit 6), and Tokyo Station (Marunouchi Central Exit)
Emperor’s Look Dates: January 2 (New Yr Deal with) and February 23 (Emperor’s Birthday)


The place to Keep in Tokyo

Tokyo isn’t in need of lodging choices. From luxurious to price range, there’s something for each sort of traveler. Due to their accessibility, Tokyo, Shinjuku, and Ueno stations are the favored vacationer bases. Listed below are a few of the top-rated price range motels in these areas.

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High Price range Lodges close to Tokyo Station

Citan HostelCitan Hostel
Citan Hostel. Picture through Agoda.

High Price range Lodges close to Shinjuku Station

Premiere Hotel Cabin ShinjukuPremiere Hotel Cabin Shinjuku
Premiere Resort Cabin Shinjuku. Picture through Agoda.

High Price range Lodges close to Ueno Station

Ueno is our absolute favourite space to remain in Tokyo. Once we’re within the metropolis, we at all times keep right here, near Ueno Station and Ueno Park as a result of it’s simply accessible and there’s a direct line to Narita Airport. There are additionally loads of comparatively reasonably priced motels within the space.

Grids Tokyo Ueno Hotel & HostelGrids Tokyo Ueno Hotel & Hostel
Grids Tokyo Ueno Resort & Hostel. Picture through Agoda.

Seek for extra Tokyo Lodges!

Hotel CodesHotel Codes

Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!

Getting a journey insurance coverage is elective, however we extremely advocate this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey could be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it provides us peace of thoughts in case of surprising delays, cancellations, or emergencies.

For worldwide locations, contemplate PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You’ll be able to GET IT HERE. Don’t neglect to make use of WORTHIT for a particular reasonably priced price.

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Images by: Yosh Dimen, Vins Carlos, and Asta Alvarez


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