Tokyo, Japan’s dynamic cutting edge city is regularly associated with the latest technological trends and the most advanced hi-tech gadgets and products. It’s prefecture houses around 13 million people, which makes it the highest populated city in the world and the largest prefecture within Japan. Despite being one of the pioneers in technological development, Tokyo’s bustling streets are an intricate and compelling mixture of old and new. The city is an ideal representation of how age-old customs and traditions can successfully continue to exist and adapt to the ever increasing pace of a globalising world. Travellers are often spoiled for choice when finding themselves amidst the booming metropolis of Japan’s impeccable capital, and one could find themselves lost in a sea of possible activities to do or with the countless amount of sites to see. To make it easier for any potential travellers wishing to visit Tokyo, here is a short list of some great places to check out that are sure to bring out the more traditional and authentic aspects of the city.
1. Tsukiji Market
If you aren’t too keen on the idea of waking up at dawn, smelling like fish, or going to a place packed with people, then the Tsukiji Fish Market is probably not the best place to visit. However, if you do enjoy exploring the more cultural and unique sites as a traveller, and if you are willing to try out the freshest and most authentic sushi in existence, then it can’t get much better than witnessing the Tuna auctions at the largest fresh fish and seafood market in the world. Tours usually operate during the very early hours of the day, meaning that arriving sometime before 5 am should be able to secure yourself a spot to witness the famous auction in action. Apart from the auction, you can explore the outer area of the market where hundreds of local food stalls and tiny restaurants offer some of the best Japanese delicacies, some of which are still alive! This is the place to witness how precise the Japanese are when it comes to providing the freshest delicacies from the rivers and oceans. Groups in large numbers and people with travelling with children are prohibited from entering the inner area of the market. It would be advisable to check beforehand the best times to arrive at the market and for the best eateries to visit.
2. Meiji Shrine
The grand Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine constructed in honour of the late Emperor Meiji and the Empress Shoken. The Shrine is another great way to explore the more cultural aspects of Tokyo and has a uniquely tranquil ambience that provides visitors with an idea of how Japan was during the height of its Imperial past. The Shrine was dedicated to the emperor who is credited for increasing the process of Japan’s modernisation between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Despite suffering destruction during the bombings of the Second World War, the reconstruction of the Shrine has been highly successful in retaining the authentic feel of the original shrine. While the Shrine is obviously the highlight of the visit, the surrounding Yo-yogi park and the beautiful Iris garden, designed by the Emperor himself, is definitely another great place to visit in Tokyo. The huge garden contains more than 245 different species of exotic trees and plant species from across the world. So if you appreciate the discipline and devotion of Japan’s customs, a trip to the great shrine is a great way to have an authentic and cultural experience.
3. Imperial Palace
If you prefer to visit a popular tourist attraction that exemplifies Japan’s historic past but at the same time isn’t swamped with tourists, then a visit to the Imperial Palace is just the thing you’re looking for. The lack of large tourist crowds is down to the policy of limiting the number of people that are permitted to visit the Palace grounds, and therefore, booking tickets well in advance is the best way of successfully getting in. The Palace is currently the main residence for Japan’s Emperor and Empress and is rebuilt on what used to be the former Edo Castle of the old Shogunate. The Palace is just a 10 minute walk away from Tokyo station and the tour takes you around the magnificent surrounding grounds and beautiful traditional gardens, along with the two iconic landmarks in the form of the Niju-bashi and Megane-bashi bridges. Since the Palace is still the main residence of the Imperial family, it makes sense that visitors aren’t permitted to enter any of the buildings. While the entire tour is in Japanese, audio guides and pamphlets in English are provided. The palace has undergone several phases of reconstruction and most recently during the bombings of the Second World War. It was once regarded as being the largest stone fortress in the world. Visiting the Palace is quite an experience for travellers that have a fascination with history, and in particular, with Japan’s feudal past and the legacy of the Tokugawa Shogunate.
4. Ryogoku Kokugikan
For people visiting Tokyo (particularly during January, May, or September) attending a Sumo tournament at the Ryogoku Sumo hall should be high on the agenda if authenticity and culture is what you are looking for. Sumo Wrestling in Japan dates back to the third century and has long played a significant part in their heritage and the legends of Japanese folklore. Visiting the Kokugikan in Tokyo will give you the opportunity to witness some of the most prominent and powerful Sumo wrestling champions, as well as having a chance to spot some of the up and coming proteges for the future of the sport. Apart from the Sumo tournament itself, you can also witness other entertaining aspects like traditional parades in ceremonial robes, as well as demonstrations by former Yokozunas (champions). Additionally, a trip to the Sumo museum (located in the first hall of the arena) either between or before wrestling bouts is also highly recommended for those wishing to obtain a better understanding on the history of the sport, and in appreciating the memorabilia and achievements of former Sumo champions. Tickets usually vary depending on the seating arrangements and it is recommended that travellers buy tickets in advance to secure the best possible seats. However, arriving early at the Kokugikan on the day of the tournament should be enough to get you a ticket as well.
5. Harajuku
The Harajuku Station area of Tokyo is where Japan’s youth display the most extreme forms of teenage fashion and culture. Here, particularly on a Sunday, you can witness crowds of young locals dressed in cosplay type attire that is highly creative, imaginative, and often radical in comparison to the more conservative nature of Japan’s older generations. Takeshita Dori within Harajuku is the 400 meter long narrow street that encompasses the home of youth fashion trends. Due to the growth in Harajuku fashion popularity across the globe, Takeshi Street is typically bustling with busy crowds and swarms of tourists on weekends. Travellers aren’t limited to witnessing this uniquely Japanese sub-culture, but can also do some shopping around the countless department stores and boutique shops spread across the area. You can find some of the most famous international designer brands, cafe’s, restaurants, as well as smaller and more traditional local shops. For instance, the nearby Oriental Bazaar serves as the city’s biggest souvenir shop and is extremely popular with tourists looking for all authentic Japanese goods. Another convenient thing is that the surrounding area is in close proximity to other tourist attractions and traditional sites like the famous Meiji Shrine, Yo-yogi Park, and the Nezu Museum.