Today, the landmark serves as a broadcasting and observation tower as well as a restaurant! Tokyo Skytree became the nation’s tallest structure in 2010 and was the second tallest building in the world at the time of its completion. Odaiba’s 115-meter Daikanransha Ferris wheel is one of the world’s largest, offering views of Tokyo Bay and, on a crystal clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Mt. Today, the area has been converted into a spectacular development project aimed at turning the islands into a futuristic residential and business district. Odaiba was originally built toward the end of the Edo Period in the late 19th century to protect Tokyo against possible attacks from the sea. Kill two birds with one stone by crossing Tokyo’s famed Rainbow Bridge in order to reach Odaiba, a popular shopping and entertainment hub constructed on an artificial island in Tokyo Bay. Here, travelers can purchase typical Japanese souvenirs such as yukata (a kimono), folding fans, and traditional local snacks from the Asakusa area. The outer gate leads to a more than 200-meter shopping street called Nakamise, a street with a history dating back several centuries. The main entrance of Senso-ji is undeniably the most breathtaking (and busy) part of the temple. One of Tokyo’s most popular places of worship, Senso-ji is a Buddhist temple that was built for Bodhisattva Kannon Bosatsu, known as the “Goddess of Mercy.” The temple was completed in the year 628, making it Tokyo’s oldest temple. The forested area surrounding the shrine comprise nearly 100,000 trees, part of Meiji Jingu’s forest that were planted during the shrine’s construction and donated from prefectures across the entire country. Meiji Shrine and the adjacent Yoyogi Park make up a large forested area that offers endless walking paths ideal for an afternoon stroll. The shrine was destroyed during World War II but rebuilt shortly after. The shrine celebrates the passing of Emperor Meiji and his companion, Empress Shoken. Located in the heart of Tokyo, Meiji Shrine is dedicated to the 122nd emperor of Japan and was completed in 1920. Wikimedia Commons Get in touch with your spiritual side 2.

The best part about Ichiran? You get to specialize your ramen exactly how you like it on a sheet of paper and eat at your own personal booth with dividers for privacy, in order to fully enjoy your meal without interruption.Įat the world’s best ramen at Ichiran. On any given day, you’ll find queues of Edokko and tourists wrapped around the building to get a taste of some of the best ramen in the world. Ichiran specializes in tonkotsu ramen, comprising of a pork-based broth, homemade flour-based noodles, and their very own special red spicy powder. Since this Chinese-style wheat noodle dish originated in Japan, it’s no surprise that the capital offers some of the best ramen on earth. Eat the best ramen in the worldĮdokko (Tokyo locals) may argue about where to find the best ramen in the country, but we think that Tokyo’s Ichiran takes the cake. If you just started planning your trip to Japan’s capital, here are 9 things you need to do in Tokyo. Whether you’re looking to get in touch with your spiritual side, taste some of the best ramen in the world, get lost in eccentric neighborhoods, check out Tokyo’s iconic fishing market, or walk with mother nature amid the untouched mountains and forests outside the city, Tokyo is swarming with experiences that will make you fall in love with Japanese culture.

There’s a reason (or 50) why CNN named Tokyo the world’s greatest city just this past year.

Sleepless town tokyo