Sensō-ji Temple
Tokyo's oldest temple, famous for the Kaminarimon gate and Nakamise street.
- Category
- Religious site
- Duration
- 1.5 h
- Price
- Free
- Best time
- Early morning
Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Show on mapCulture – Tokyo
In Tokyo, Edo traditions blend with modern pop culture: temples, kabuki and sumo sit beside neon streets. Respectful etiquette is part of daily life.
Historic sites
- Edo Castle ruins – Moats and gates remain from the castle that was the shoguns' seat of power.
- Zōjō-ji Temple – A large temple beside Tokyo Tower housing Tokugawa family tombs.
- Yasukuni and Hie Shrines – Historic Tokyo shrines; Hie Shrine's tunnel of red gates is very photogenic.
Traditions
- Tea ceremony (chanoyu) – A calm ritual in which matcha is prepared and served with care.
- Sumo wrestling – Japan's national sport, interwoven with Shinto rituals.
- Hatsumōde (New Year shrine visit) – Millions visit shrines in the first days of the year to pray for good luck.
Festivals
- Sanja Matsuri – One of Tokyo's biggest festivals, held in Asakusa in May with portable shrines.
- Sumida River Fireworks – A famous fireworks show over the Sumida River in late July.
- Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) – The late March to early April tradition of picnicking under blooming trees in parks.
Etiquette
- Remove your shoes when entering homes and some temples.
- Keep quiet on public transport and avoid phone calls.
- Tipping is not expected; avoid eating while walking and stop to eat.
Map
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Places
Meiji Jingu Shrine
A peaceful Shinto shrine in a forest, dedicated to Emperor Meiji.
- Category
- Religious site
- Duration
- 1.3 h
- Price
- Free
- Best time
- Early morning
Tip: You may see traditional wedding processions on weekends.
Show on mapShibuya Crossing
The world's most famous crossing, where thousands cross at each green light.
- Category
- Landmark
- Duration
- 30 min
- Price
- Free
- Best time
- Evening
Tip: Watch from above at the Starbucks or from Shibuya Sky.
Show on mapTokyo Tower
A red-and-white 333 m tower that has symbolised the city since 1958.
- Category
- Landmark
- Duration
- 1 h
- Price
- $$
- Best time
- Evening
Tip: Stay after sunset to see it lit up.
Show on mapImperial Palace East Gardens
The imperial palace grounds with remains of old Edo Castle and wide gardens.
- Category
- Historic site
- Duration
- 1.5 h
- Price
- Free
- Best time
- March to May and October to November
Tip: It is closed on Mondays and Fridays.
Show on mapKabuki-za Theatre
Ginza's famed theatre for traditional kabuki performances.
- Category
- Performance
- Duration
- 3 h
- Price
- $$$
- Best time
- Evening
Tip: A single-act (makumi) ticket offers a short taste.
Show on mapRyōgoku Kokugikan
The national sumo arena, with a sumo museum.
- Category
- Performance
- Duration
- 3 h
- Price
- $$$
- Best time
- January, May and September tournaments
Tip: Outside tournaments the museum is free; book tickets ahead.
Show on mapYanaka Ginza & Old Town
Temples and small shops of old Tokyo that survived the war.
- Category
- Neighborhood
- Duration
- 2 h
- Price
- Free
- Best time
- Afternoon
Tip: Look out for cat motifs and croquette stalls along the way.
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Please verify with official sources before your visit.
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