Tokyo is an exciting, diverse destination that offers plenty of travel attractions. From temples to food, shopping and culture – you’ll never run out of things to do here!
Japanese culture is truly remarkable and distinct from anything you’ll find in the West. It’s an enchanting thing, making one of the most important sights to see while visiting Tokyo the Imperial Palace. If you go to Tokyo with Cathay Pacific, these are some wonderful sights to see.
Ueno Park
Ueno Park in Tokyo is a vast area filled with museums, art galleries and temples. It’s perfect for anyone interested in Japanese culture as you can watch cherry blossoms bloom every spring here! Additionally, there’s an expansive zoo where black and white panda bears play happily.
Ueno Park offers a wealth of activities and attractions, so be sure to plan ahead when visiting. For the best hanami (cherry blossom viewing), come during the first week of April or early May for optimal views.
Another enjoyable activity in the park is taking a leisurely walk through its gardens. Here, you’ll find an impressive collection of Ginkgo biloba trees as well as numerous other exotic plants and flowers.
The gardens offer an opportunity to learn more about Japanese culture. You can observe daily life in Japan and marvel at the numerous statues commemorating significant figures throughout its history.
While in Ueno Park, be sure to visit Bentendo Temple – an impressive example of ancient Japanese architecture situated amidst Shinobazu Pond. Take a leisurely walk around this serene temple while admiring its picturesque views.
Other attractions of the park include its museums and large zoo, where you can observe animals such as deer, pandas and Japanese squirrels up close. Furthermore, there are plenty of jogging and running trails to choose from – making this an ideal location for exercise.
Public transportation is the best way to get around, so be sure to purchase a pass before your journey. JR passes work on the Yamanote Line and Suica or Pasmo cards offer added convenience when using public transport.
Within the park, visitors can explore some fascinating attractions such as the National Museum of Western Art. This building houses an expansive collection of artworks from around the globe – paintings, sculptures and decorative objects included!
Odaiba Statue of Liberty
Odaiba is an artificial island in Tokyo that features many tourist attractions. These range from shopping malls to theme parks, with many offering breathtaking views of the city at night.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Odaiba is the Statue of Liberty, situated between Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower. For years, this statue has been a sought-after tourist destination – and it’s not hard to understand why!
Since 1998, Japan has had a replica of the Statue of Liberty from New York City, originally erected in France before being transferred as a tribute to France and Japan’s relationship.
At only 40 feet high, it appears much larger than it actually is due to the walkway in front of it and suspension bridge it sits atop.
Though not as large or well-known as New York’s Statue of Liberty, Odaiba Lady Liberty offers an exquisite view of both Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Bay. It also makes for some picturesque photographs at night when illuminated with glowing lights.
One must-visit destination in Odaiba is the Aqua City Odaiba shopping mall. This complex contains 140 stores and restaurants with both indoor and outdoor areas to enjoy.
This shopping center is the ideal destination for fashionistas seeking both casual fashion brands and high-end apparel. Popular retailers include Adidas, Onitsuka Tiger, and Godiva.
Foodies will love Eggs n Things restaurant. Here you can grab a quick bite of Japanese breakfast or grab something to snack on in the afternoon. Be sure to try one of their famous omelettes or French toasts!
At 140 stores, you’re sure to find some top international brands. This makes a great destination for buying souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home.
Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower, one of the city’s iconic landmarks, was constructed in 1958 as a radio tower and continues to be one of its beloved symbols today. The orange-red structure is now a major tourist destination with stunning views of the skyline from both its observation decks.
The main deck at 150 meters can be reached without a reservation; the top deck, at 250 meters, requires one. Climbing to the top is an exciting experience and there are plenty of shops, restaurants and other attractions for you to explore – making it a memorable day!
At night, the tower’s illumination changes to a range of colors depending on the season and event. It’s an enchanting sight that you should make time for; why not climb up onto its top deck during sunset to take in all its glory?
Fans of the anime series One Piece will surely enjoy Tokyo Tower’s collection of attractions inspired by the manga series. Here, you can witness live shows based on the show, take part in Luffy’s Endless Adventure and even try your luck at gaming.
Around the area, you’ll find several small museums that provide insight into Japanese history and business. The NHK Museum of Broadcasting commemorates radio and television history; The Ad Museum Tokyo showcases advertising history; while Panasonic Living Showroom showcases modern urban living.
For an alternative entertainment option, head to Tokyo Tower Foot Town. Here, you’ll find a host of activities and attractions such as virtual car racing competitions, concerts, gaming spaces and board game rooms – plus an esports-specific leisure area.
The tower’s two observation decks are worth visiting, but if you’re not up for climbing 600 stairs or have a fear of heights there are plenty of other ways to view Tokyo and its iconic landmarks. The top deck in particular offers an enthralling array of artistic mirrors and LED lights that enhance the view of Tokyo’s most renowned sights.
Senso-ji Temple
Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, draws over 30 million visitors annually. Devoted to Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva (Kannon), who embodies all Buddhas’ mercy, it attracts travelers from throughout Japan and beyond.
The main temple building is an exquisite example of Japanese architecture, featuring intricate stonework and marble statues. Additionally, there are numerous traditional zen gardens surrounding the complex.
Its most famous feature is a golden image of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy that was discovered by fishermen in AD 628 and has remained on display ever since. This revered figure serves as the focal point of the temple, believed to compel fishermen to return repeatedly to her shrine due to her beauty and radiant nature.
Another striking aspect of the temple is its jokoro, or smoking stairway. Lit with incense smoke, it is customary for Buddhists to put their hands together in front of this structure and recite “Namu Kanzeon Bosatsu.”
Sensoji also boasts an impressive five-story pagoda that’s only accessible during certain times of year. For travelers interested in Buddhism, this must-visit destination should not be missed.
Tourists at Sensoji often stop to visit the o-mikuji, an oracle that answers questions for a fee of 100 yen. Several stalls along the temple approach offer these services with a suggested donation of 100 yen.
Other activities include taking a guided tour of the temple and exploring Nakamise-dori, an exciting shopping street connecting Kaminarimon Gate to Sensoji’s grounds. Here you’ll find plenty of stalls selling souvenirs and traditional Japanese foods like bean paste filled mochi (rice crackers) and matcha tea sweets.
At Senso-ji, there’s a wide array of events from traditional festivals to modern day shows. Check the official website for dates and times for these performances. For instance, Tokyo’s biggest festival, Sanja Matsuri, takes place over the third weekend in May and features street food, games, and musical performances.