Tokyo can easily be called one of the most famous cities in the world, along with New York, Paris, London and Hong Kong. Many people dream of visiting the Japanese capital, but in reality few people make these dreams come true.
There are several reasons for this: the image of the most expensive city in the world, language and cultural barriers, the remoteness of Japan and the high cost of flights. But in reality, everything is not so scary: a trip to Tokyo can be quite inexpensive (no more expensive than to New York or London) – the cost of the flight depends on the season, and every third resident of the capital speaks English.
The earthquake of 1923 almost completely destroyed the city, and what survived in 1923 was destroyed during the bombing of 1945. Tokyo was rebuilt almost from scratch in the second half of the 20th century, and therefore today is one of the most modern capitals in the world. But this does not mean that there is nothing to see in the city – quite the opposite!
1. Tsukiji Market
Tsukiji is not just a market, it is a giant food court with an excellent selection of the freshest seafood and fish. The main attraction on Tsukiji is the tuna auction. Attending the auction is free, but the number of places for tourists is limited and the queue must be reserved in advance, no later than 4.30 am. After the auction, wander around the market, admire the variety of marine life, and be sure to have breakfast or lunch at one of the Tsukiji sushi bars (market restaurants close around 1:30 p.m.).
2. Ueno Park and Museum District
On the territory of Ueno Park there are several museums, temples and even the oldest zoo in Tokyo. Be sure to visit the Japanese Art Gallery in the main building of the Tokyo National Museum (Honkan) and the National Museum of Science and Nature. At the opposite end of the park from Honkan is the interesting little Shitamachi Museum, which features a life-size recreation of the poor neighborhoods of Tokyo before the earthquake.
3. Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park
Meiji is the largest and most popular Shinto shrine in Tokyo, dedicated to Emperor Mutsuhito and his wife. It was thanks to Mutsuhito, who chose a pro-Western course and opened Japan to foreigners, that the country became one of the leading world powers. Meiji is located in the depths of the ancient Yoyogi Park, which is visited daily by thousands of Japanese. The park is equipped with bicycle paths and a basketball court, and bicycle rentals are available.
4. Harajuku Quarter
Harajuku, located in Shibuya, is one of the most unusual places in Tokyo. On Sundays, cosplayers gather here, young people in fancy costumes in the best anime traditions. Photos of funny dressed Japanese teenagers were taken here.
5. Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya, the most famous intersection in the world, perfectly expresses the spirit of Tokyo. Sit on the second floor of the Starbucks in Tsutaya’s bookstore building and watch thousands of people cross it in all directions at once. Please note that there are lines at this Starbucks and you will have to wait a bit to get a seat by the window. An excellent view of the intersection can also be seen from the glass skywalk between Mark City Shopping Center and Shibuya Station. In the evening, when there are neon signs and advertisements all around, the intersection looks even better than during the day.
6. Mori Tower
The Roppongi Hills Mori Tower is 238 meters high, making it one of the tallest buildings in the city. On the 52nd and 53rd floors is the Museum of Contemporary Art, which displays both the work of Japanese artists and outstanding works by authors from around the world. By purchasing a ticket to the museum, you will also gain access to the observation deck, which offers one of the best views of Tokyo. In good weather, there is also an open observation deck on the roof of the skyscraper (be prepared for the fact that it is quite windy there).
7. Tokyo Imperial Palace
This palace is the active residence of the imperial family, so the courtyard and the palace building itself are closed to the public. The palace is open to tourists only twice a year – January 2 and December 23. But you can easily explore the adjacent eastern park. In addition to the variety of trees and shrubs that bloom here almost all year round, you can see the ruins of one of the towers of the original Edo Castle, on the site of which the modern imperial palace was erected.
8. Asakusa area and Sensoji Temple
Sensoji is one of the most popular attractions in Tokyo. This is an elegant Buddhist temple dedicated to the goddess Kanon. The guidebooks say that it was founded in the 7th century, but do not let this information mislead you, the modern temple building was built only in 1958. Near Sensoji there is an ancient shopping street called Nakamise, popular among tourists, where you can buy souvenirs and traditional Japanese sweets.
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