TOKYO, Japan — How many travel guide books have been written about Tokyo? Countless.
That’s because there is so much to see and do, rendering it difficult to capture the true essence of a city like Tokyo in a concise article. Everyone who visits can find something to do, whether it’s shopping or taking in culture or eating from one end of the city to the other.
But, for the sake of a starting off point, here’s a top ten list (in no particular order) of sights worth seeing in Japan’s capital city:
— Tsukiji Fish Market: The fish market is a hectic place, and there are people moving in every direction. Fish of every shape and size are for sale – salmon, swordfish and sea urchins to name a few. Be warned, though: The Tsukiji Fish Market offers up some gruesome sights as fish are cut apart and sold. After enjoying the market, pick a local sushi bar and enjoy some of the day’s catch.
— Onsen: Onsen means hot springs in Japan. There are many located throughout the city, but consider taking a trip to the coastal city of Atami, located south of Tokyo. The city’s name means “hot ocean,” and it is a popular resort town. It’s also a nice way to see some of Japan’s countryside and enjoy a slower pace than Tokyo.
— Harajuku: Make sure it’s a Sunday when you head over to Harajuku Station and nearby Yoyogi Park. At Harajuku Station, girls dress up in a myriad of costumes – such as characters from their favorite shows, cartoon characters, etc. – to garner attention. If that’s not enough, head over to Yoyogi Park to watch the dancing Elvises. Yes, the dancing Elvises – a group of men who converge on the park every Sunday and dance to 1950s music, all while dressed as Elvis – complete with the hairdo and leather jackets.
— Electric City: Also known as Electric Town, this is the place to shop for electronics. Located near Japan Railways’ Akihabara station, Electric City has a reputation for the best prices on the latest electronics, but there’s no obligation to buy, as walking through the area is an experience in itself.
— The Railway Museum: Located in nearby Ōnari, The Railway Museum is a window into Japan’s past. To say that railroads are a vital part of Tokyo’s modern-day culture is an understatement. But Tokyo and Japan as a whole have relied on trains for decades, and The Railway Museum highlights how the country shifted from U.S.-built steam locomotives to the more-modern bullet trains, the newest versions of which raced by the tracks next to the museum’s rooftop viewing platform.
— Lost in Translation Bar: Better known as the New York Bar, and located on the 52nd floor of the Park Hyatt Tokyo, this swanky saloon is worth a drink. Not two because that would be really expensive. Drink slowly and enjoy a view of the city.
— Shrines: There are many shrines to visit in Tokyo, but one worth considering is the Meiji Jingu Shrine, located near Harajuku. Built in 1920, the shrine is named after Emperor Meiji and houses the souls of both Emperor Meiji, Japan’s 122nd emperor who ruled Japan from Feb. 3, 1867, until his death on July 30, 1912, and Empress Shōken.
— Temples: Like shrines, there are many to see in Tokyo. That said, one worth seeing is the Sensoji Temple. Built in the 7th century, Sensoji Temple is the country’s oldest, though it was partly destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt.
— Tokyo Science Museum: A trip to Tokyo wouldn’t be complete without stopping in a technology to learn about the latest innovations. Among the exhibits is Asimo — a robot that can run, walk and talk.
— Boatride along the Samida River: This is a relaxing way to cover some ground and enjoy various vantage points of the city. Heading down river offers a nice view of the city’s famous Rainbow Bridge, which opened in 1993 and spans Tokyo Bay.
Keep in mind this is merely a starting off point for taking in Tokyo. What’s great about a city like Tokyo is its public transportation system, which covers just about every corner of the city and certainly everywhere the average traveler would want to see. In fact, the city’s extensive rail network is an attraction itself. So, grab a map and take a moment to plot the course. And, enjoy Tokyo – not like that’s hard to do.