While Tokyo's endless of blocks of high-rise architecture drive some to flee for Japan's remote sectors, Tokyo tourist who stick around quickly find there's more to this city than they first assumed.
In a city as dynamic as this, it can be daunting to come up with a short list of attraction to focus on. Tokyo’s visitors find there are just as many storied temples and enchanting, historic neighborhoods in city as there are breathtaking feats of modern architecture.
Culture is the finest asset of Tokyo; and with its rich historical past, Tokyo has produced several sights and landmarks that attract tourists from around the world. Backed by institutes like the Edo-Tokyo and Tokyo National museums, Tokyo boasts the country's finest collections of artistic, cultural and historic artifacts. In between, there are ruins of the old capital (Edo), a grand palace and dozens of shrines and temples.
Whisking visitors on a fascinating journey through ancient Tokyo, the Edo-Tokyo Museum begins with the late 16th century and expertly covers the cultural, architectural and historical changes Japan went through in the following centuries. This Tokyo attraction exhibits are beautifully crafted, and visitors can join volunteer-led tours (one to two hours) from late morning until mid-afternoon.
The Imperial Palace landmark in Tokyo is the residence of Japan's 125th emperor. Access to the grounds is restricted to guided tours which are held most mornings, however the Imperial Palace Tokyo. Guests must register for these at least a day in advance. Near the palace in East Garden (Higashi Gyoen) are the ruins of old Edo Castle.
Home to the world's definitive collection of Japanese Art, this notable attraction located in Ueno Park and is easily accessed by metro. The emphasis of each gallery ranges from archaeological findings in Japan (and abroad) to artistic periods in Japanese history. Exhibits rotate periodically, but expect to see beautiful kimonos, delicate ceramics, samurai weapons and woodblock printings.
Located north of the Imperial Palace in Chiyoda Tokyo, the Yasukuni Shrine is one of Tokyo’s landmark built in the mid-19th century in striking Shinto style. The spirits of those who have died in Japan's wars are thought to reside here, and traditionalists still come to worship them as minor deities. An antique market is held here on Saturdays.
The city hall, or Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office (TMG), was built by one of the most famous architects in Japan. It's actually a collection of three buildings merging to create the tallest building in Shinjuku. Two observation platforms on the 45th floor welcome tourists with sweeping views of the city.
In walking distance from Asakuna metro station, Sensoji Temple is Tokyo's oldest, and it still draws worshippers as well as tourists. Legend has it the onsite statue to Kannon (the Buddhist goddess of mercy) was found by two fishermen in the 7th century.
