Whether you’re interested in exploring Japan’s cultural temples and shrines, shopping in the city’s various complexes, or simply immersing yourself in the local food and sights, Tokyo has something to offer every type of traveler. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top things to see and do during your visit plus something nearby you can do after each attraction.
1. Ginza Art Aquarium (and Ginza Mitsukoshi Department Store)
Ginza Art Aquarium, located in Tokyo’s upscale Ginza district, is a unique and mesmerizing attraction that combines art and aquariums to create a magical, one-of-a-kind experience. The exhibition features more than 5,000 goldfish of various species, colours, and sizes, displayed in over 130 intricately designed aquariums. The water in the aquariums are combined with bright LED lights to create a magnificent display of colours. In addition, Ginza Art Aquarium also features live performances, music, interactive exhibits, and artwork from local artists. All of which are designed to transport you into an otherworldly environment. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves art, aquariums, or simply wants to experience something awesome.
Ginza Art Aquarium is located within the Ginza Mitsukoshi Department Store, on the 8th floor. After you snap some breathtaking photos with fishies, you can shop in one of the most prestigious and well-known department stores in Tokyo. When you exit the Aquarium, you will be in the tourist section of the department store. This area has a wide array of inexpensive souvenirs and luxury goods. The bonus is that everything on this floor is tax-free if spend at least 5,000 Yen and have your passport with you. It is a perfect complement to the Ginza Art Aquarium exhibition, providing visitors with a complete and unforgettable experience.
2. TeamLabs Planets Tokyo (and Toyosu Fish Market)
TeamLab Planets Tokyo is an immersive and interactive art museum located in Koto City, Tokyo. The museum features various famous exhibits that involve getting your feet wet in milky galaxy water and crawling on a floor of mirrors with live flowers hanging over your head. One of the exhibits is named “Drawing on the Water Surface Created by the Dance of Koi and People – Infinity” A projection of koi fish is illuminated onto shin-deep water. This light rendering of koi fish and lilypads on the water is done in real-time by a computer program. It is neither prerecorded nor on loop so interaction between the viewer and the installation causes continuous change in the artwork.
Another highlight of the museum is the “Floating Flower Garden” exhibit, which features a waterfall of live flowers that seem to breathe in and out as you interact with them. The mirrors that cover all sides of this exhibit room make it a truly breathtaking sight. Before entering teamLab Planets Tokyo visitors are required to remove their shoes and socks. It is also recommended that visitors wear shorts or roll up their pants. This is to help keep the exhibit’s mirror floors clean and also because you’ll have to wade through water at times. The museum provides shorts and there are lockers available for storing shoes and personal belongings. Lastly, the exhibit recommends visitors not wear skirts due to the mirror floors that are present in many of the exhibits.
Nearby is the Toyosu Fish Market, a wholesale market with local vendors of fresh fruit, vegetables and fish. In addition, Toyosu Market also has several restaurants and shops where visitors can sample fresh seafood and other local delicacies. An interesting event at the Toyosu Fish Market is the tuna auction, which takes place in the early morning hours. Here you can watch as giant bluefin tuna are auctioned off to the highest bidder, with prices often reaching millions of yen! Even if you don’t have an affinity for seafood, Toyosu Market is an unique attraction worthy of a pit stop before or after teamLabs Planets Tokyo.
3. Sensoji Temple (and Hoppy Street Food Stalls)
Sensoji Temple, located in Tokyo’s Asakusa district, is one of the oldest and most well-known temples in all of Japan. In contrast to the modern appeal of the last two activities, It is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Japan for the first time, as it offers a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors to the temple can enjoy a variety of traditional cultural experiences, such as fortune-telling, wearing a kimono, and calligraphy. There are also numerous shops selling souvenirs and traditional Japanese goods, such as fans, good luck charms, and wallets with Japanese-esque designs.
A popular food destination near Sensoji Temple is Hoppy Street, an area with narrow alleyways lined with bars and food stalls. Here, you can try a variety of delicious snacks and drinks, such as croquettes, curry bread, and ramen. One must-try food item on Hoppy Street is dango, a sweet and chewy Japanese dumpling made from mochi (sticky rice flour). Dango is typically served on skewers and coated in a variety of toppings, such as sweet soy sauce or roasted soybean flour. It is a delicious and iconic snack that is the perfect complement to the beautiful sights and temples. Be mindful of the fact that there are strict rules in Japan regarding eating on the streets. There are designated areas for eating and you’re not allowed to eat in front of the stalls. These rules help to both ensure the cleanliness of the area and keep busy stalls clear of crowds of people.
About Author
