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Insider's Guide: Things To Do in Tokyo

Insider's Guides | Asia-Pacific | By Orsolya Kako

After introducing you to a few of her favourite hotels and restaurants, Trip Designer Orsolya Kako returns to round out our three-part Insider’s Guide with this list of her favourite things to do in Tokyo that make for a stunning day in Japan’s capital.


My Favourite Things To Do in Tokyo

Things To do in Tokyo
Puffer fish on sale at the Tsukiji fish market

Tsukiji Fish Market
Billed as the biggest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world, Tsukiji began its operations in 1935 and garnered international attention during Japan’s economic growth in the 1980s, when the world found itself fascinated with Japanese cuisine. It makes a great early morning activity if you find yourself fighting off jet lag after a long flight. (On my last trip, I woke up at 4:30 on the first day!)


Things To do in Tokyo
Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine
After the hustle and bustle of the market (to say nothing of the smell), you might find yourself in need of some fresh air. The courtyard at the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the Emperor Meiji and his wife Empress Shōken, offers terrific green space that will provide a little serenity amidst the chaotic capital.

 

Things to do in Tokyo
Omotesando

Omotesando
Starting at the entrance to the Meiji shrine, Omotesando is sort of like Tokyo’s answer to the Champs-Élysées, a gorgeous tree-lined avenue known to showcase flagship stores designed by avant garde architects—quite spectacular, especially for those with an eye for architecture. While in the area, I highly recommend a lunch at Intersect, the restaurant designed by Lexus. (Read more about it here.)

 


Things to do in Tokyo
Scai The Bathouse

Scai The Bathouse
Housed within Kashiwayu, a 200-year-old public bath, Scai was converted to an art gallery in 1993 and has since become a launching pad for some of Japan’s most avant garde artists. In addition to its unique and remarkable exhibitions, the house itself is a site not to be missed, with a gorgeous tiled roof and towering chimney.

Mori Art Museum
Not only does the museum feature some incredible contemporary art exhibitions, but it also offers some amazing views of Tokyo from its perch on the 53rd floor of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower.

 

 

Photography credit: Banner image Moyan Brenn via Flickr/CC BY 2.0
Tsukiji image from the user Chris 73 via Wikimedia Commons