Welcome to Tokyo! Tokyo is a huge city that mixes old traditions with modern technology, and it has an excellent public transport system that makes it easy to explore the city’s top attractions. Whether you’re visiting famous landmarks, shopping areas, or cultural spots, Tokyo’s trains, subways, buses, and trams will help you get around quickly and easily.
Here’s a guide to visiting Tokyo’s must-see destinations you can reach using a public transport travel card that allows visitors the opportunity to discover more of the city through its efficient transit system designed for tourism.
1. Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa)
Senso-ji is Tokyo’s oldest and most significant temple. With its grand entrance, the Kaminarimon Gate, and a lively shopping street leading to the temple, it’s a perfect blend of culture and commerce. Visitors can experience traditional Japanese religious practices and enjoy the historic atmosphere.
Opening hours: Everyday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
How to get there: Take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or the Toei Asakusa Line to Asakusa Station. From there, it’s a short walk to the temple. You can also take a Toei Bus from Ueno or Tokyo Station.
2. Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree is one of the tallest towers in the world, offering stunning views of the city from its observation decks. The surrounding Solamachi shopping complex features an aquarium and various stores, making it a great spot for both sightseeing and entertainment.
Opening hours: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (last entry at 8:00 PM).
How to get there: Take the Tobu Skytree Line to Tokyo Skytree Station, or the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line to Oshiage Station.
3. Shibuya Crossing
Famous worldwide, Shibuya Crossing is the bustling heart of the city, where thousands of pedestrians cross at once. The area is a hub of fashion, dining, and nightlife, with the iconic Hachiko statue nearby serving as a popular meeting spot.
Opening hours: Always open
How to get there: Take the JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, or Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line to Shibuya Station. The crossing is just outside the station’s Hachiko Exit.
4. Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park
Located near the lively Harajuku area, Meiji Shrine is a peaceful sanctuary dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife. Yoyogi Park, right next door, offers wide open spaces perfect for picnics, outdoor activities, and weekend relaxation
Opening hours:
- Meiji Shrine Opening Hours: Sunrise to Sunset (varies by season, generally around 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM).
- Yoyogi Park Opening Hours: Always open.
How to get there: Take the JR Yamanote Line or Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line to Harajuku Station. The shrine entrance is right outside the station. Toei buses also serve the area from various parts of the city.
5. Akihabara Electric Town
Akihabara is the center of Japan’s anime, manga, and gaming culture. Whether you’re looking for the latest electronics or niche hobby items, this district offers a unique experience of Japan’s pop culture scene.
Opening hours: Varies by store; generally, most shops open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
How to get there: Take the JR Yamanote Line or Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line to Akihabara Station. The Toei Bus system also provides direct routes to Akihabara from Ueno and other nearby districts.
6. Tokyo Imperial Palace
Home to Japan’s royal family, the Imperial Palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens open to the public. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks and learn about Japan’s imperial history while exploring this peaceful and historically rich area.
Opening hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM, closed Mondays and Fridays).
How to get there: Take the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line to Otemachi Station or the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Tokyo Station. From either station, it’s a short walk to the palace grounds.
7. Odaiba
A futuristic entertainment hub, Odaiba offers plenty of attractions including high-tech museums, shopping centers, and waterfront views of the iconic Rainbow Bridge. The area is also famous for its innovative architecture and relaxed, scenic atmosphere.
Opening hours: Varies by attraction. Shopping malls are generally open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
How to get there: Take the Yurikamome Line from Shimbashi Station or the Rinkai Line to Tokyo Teleport Station.
8. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen is a large park known for its beautifully designed gardens, featuring both traditional Japanese and Western-style landscapes. It’s a favorite spot for viewing cherry blossoms in spring, offering a quiet retreat from the bustling city.
Opening hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM, closed Mondays).
How to get there: Take the JR Chuo Line to Shinjuku Station or the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Shinjuku-gyoenmae Station.
Getting Around with Public Transport
Tokyo’s public transport system is not only highly efficient but also provides a scenic and easy way to explore the city. With frequent services and wide coverage, the buses, trams, and metro lines will take you to all these attractions with ease and comfort.
For a smooth journey, consider buying a day pass, which offers unlimited travel on all forms of transport.
No matter which part of Tokyo you want to explore, the city’s reliable public transport network will take you there with ease. Happy exploring!
