Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum

Even if you don't have a burning interest in Japanese architecture this open air museum of restored  Meiji period buildings is a fun and offbeat way to spend an afternoon.

The buildings, spread out over many acres of parkland, are all authentic historical buildings either relocated or reconstructed from various places in Japan. This is one of the only places to see buildings of this style as most have been destroyed by redevelopment and earthquakes. There are middle class homes, bathhouses, working shops and restaurants, even the former residence of a prime minister. It's possible to explore both the inside and outside of many of the buildings, which are full of historical artifacts.

The effect is surreal. Film buffs may find some of the buildings look familiar; Hayao Miyazaki visited here for inspiration when making the famous film Spirited Away.