While tourists are currently prohibited from entering Japan due to COVID-19, you can still plan exciting future excursions. Tokyo is a bustling city that offers some of the country's best attractions. Start vacation planning and consider adding some of these popular destinations to your itinerary.
What Are Some of Tokyo's Best Attractions?
1. Shibuya Scramble Square
Standing at 755 feet, Shibuya Scramble Square is the tallest building in the Shibuya area and overlooks the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing. The building is filled with shops and restaurants, and it features a stunning observation area, known as Sky Stage, as well as an indoor Sky Gallery on the 46th floor. Don't forget to take pictures of the Shibuya Crossing from above and from the street as you experience this iconic area.
2. Sensō-ji
In the historic heart of Tokyo lies the Asakusa area, which is home to Sensō-ji, or the Asakusa Kannon Temple. Dating back to 645 AD, Sensō-ji is the oldest temple in Tokyo. It is dedicated to the Bodhisattva of compassion and mercy and was formerly associated with Tendai Buddhism, though it has been independent since World War II. This beautiful temple is adjacent to a five-story Shinto pagoda, as well as a long pedestrian mall known as Nakamise-dōri, which houses shops selling souvenirs and local snacks.
3. Odaiba
Located in Tokyo Bay, Odaiba is an artificial island packed full of must-visit attractions. For those who love shopping, Odaiba has numerous large malls that range in style from the 18th century Rome-inspired Venus Fort to the pop culture and entertainment-themed DiverCity Tokyo Plaza. You will also find numerous museums and art installations, like teamLab Borderless, where there are no lines drawn between individual pieces of art or between art and spectator. However, if you just want to relax, you can spend the day rejuvenating yourself at Odaiba Oedo-Onsen Monogatari, an indoor spa powered by hot springs.
4. Tsukiji Outer Market
A trip to Tokyo isn't complete without a visit to the Tsukiji Outer Market, where you can find some of the city's finest sushi restaurants. Originally, this outstanding market catered to professional chefs and businesses, but now you can go there to buy family-sized meals and even some groceries if you want to try cooking with high-quality, traditional ingredients. The Tsukiji area has a storied history dating back to the 17th century, making it a great place to learn about the intersections between Japanese environmental engineering, commerce, and food history.
Start your vacation planning with N & K Travel Service, the family-owned travel agency serving Oahu, HI, since 1997. The experienced travel agents offer full-service, custom tours for small groups, which includes booking your flights, hotels, and car rentals. Travel insurance is also available to cover delays and cancellations. Call (808) 739-9010 today to discuss vacation planning or review international guided tours online.