Japanese Culture >> Short Trip to Tokyo Guide
Short Trip to Tokyo
If you are heading to Tokyo in the coming weeks and have no time
to read or even buy a thick travel guide, no worries. I have prepared for you a
concise, must-see list of recommendations that you can squeeze in during your
trip. So, print this out, stick it in your pocket, and go!
1: Harajuku
Known for its street youth sporting out-of-this world costumes,
its great shopping and its proximity to the famous Meiji Shrine, Harajuku is eye
candy for the intrepid traveler of any age. Walk around, shop a bit, or have
lunch while you people watch. Directions: Take the Yama-no-te line and get off
at Harajuku station.
2: Kamakura
Okay, technically Kamakura is not in Tokyo at all and is actually about an hour
outside of the city. But, as my absolutely favorite place to visit in Eastern
Japan, I could not resist including it here. Kamakura is the place to go if you
are hankering for a taste of old Japan - Buddhist temples and traditional food -
but do not have time to go all the way to Kyoto or Nara in Western Japan.
Visiting here feels like you are stepping back in time. Directions: Take the
Shonan-Shinjuku line and get off at Kita Kamakura station.
3: Ginza
For those who like flashy clothes, impressive architecture, clubs, and upscale
shopping, Ginza is a fun place to spend time. Directions: Take the Tokyo Subway
line and exit at Ginza station.
4: Tokyo Tower
The Tokyo Tower was built in 1958, is red and white and is actually 13 meters
taller than the Eiffel Tower. Its base and surrounding areas also offer fun
activities for kids. Directions: Take the Mita line and exit at Onarimon or take
the Oedo line and exit at Akabanebashi station.
5: Imperial Palace
If you are in the mood for a look at the site of the famous ruling place of the
Tokugawa Shoguns of the Edo period (lasting until about 140 years ago), visit
the beautiful East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. The place has a regal
serenity which fires the imagination while it pleasing architecture buffs.
Directions: Take the Toei Mita line to Hibiya station.
6: Chinatown in Yokohama
Chinatown in Yokoyama, like Kamakura, is technically not in
Tokyo, but do not let that stop you from paying a visit. Stepping into China
Town is like stepping into another world. From any of the ornate and colorful
gates that greet you to the throngs of people and authentic Chinese food, China
Town is a spectacle worth seeing. Directions: Take the Minato-Mirai line and get
off at Motomachi-Chukagai station.
7: Shinjuku National Gardens
Shinjuku National Garden, or Shinjuku Gyoen, was completed in 1906 on the site
of a private mansion belonging to a Lord Naito. It was later designated as a
national garden at the end of World War II. It covers 144 acres and features
gardens of Formal French, Formal English, and Japanese styles. Directions: Take
the Maru-no-uchi line and get off at Shinjuku Gyoen Mae station.
About the Author
Enjoy your next trip to Tokyo even more by saving money! Learn the secrets to cheap travel as told by a fired, ex-travel agent at http://www.dont-sugar-coat-it.com