My accomplice Vins and I’ve been journey running a blog for the previous 15 years and Tokyo is one in all our favourite cities. The Japanese capital is likely to be identified for its neon-lit streets and high-tech every little thing, however you don’t must lay our a fortune to take pleasure in this megacity!
Consider it or not, Tokyo is full of superior free experiences — from historic temples to futuristic metropolis views, quirky avenue scenes, and even some sudden cultural gems. So when you’re on a finances (or simply love a superb freebie), this checklist is for you!
Listed here are a number of the numerous sights in Tokyo that you may take pleasure in for FREE. Notice that the quantity is just for straightforward reference and isn’t a sign of any explicit rating.
WAIT, WAIT, WAIT! If you’re additionally visiting Osaka, please additionally go to our The Poor Traveler Masterlist. Right here, we compiled journey necessities, together with immigration necessities and all our really useful motels and sights. Simply go to this web page: TPT Masterlist. Then, scroll till you see the part about Osaka. We even have a compilation for different locations around the globe.
1. Tokyo Metropolitan Authorities Constructing
Most vacationers rush to Tokyo SkyTree or Tokyo Tower for these panoramic metropolis views. And that’s very comprehensible. In spite of everything, these are the 2 tallest constructions in Japan. However do you know there’s a solution to soak in Tokyo’s skyline free of charge? Enter the Tokyo Metropolitan Authorities Constructing in Shinjuku!
This twin-towered beast has two observatories and from right here you possibly can see the Tokyo Tower and the Tokyo SkyTree. You possibly can even see Mount Fuji on a transparent day. No less than that’s what I’ve been advised. I can’t affirm as a result of we visited at evening. But when you can also make it earlier than sundown, that will be tremendous since you’ll get to benefit from the view in daytime, at twilight, and at evening!
It’s fully free. No entrance price, however you continue to get these breathtaking cityscapes. The Tokyo Metropolitan Constructing is the last word finances traveler’s hack! As a result of it’s free and there are solely two elevators, count on to fall in line a bit, however the wait is value it.
Deal with: Tokyo Metropolitan Authorities Constructing, 2 Chome-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku Metropolis, Tokyo 163-8001, Japan
Nearest Subway Station: Tocho-mae Station (Toei Oedo Line)
Opening Hours: North Observatory – Each day, 9:30 AM – 11:00 PM (Closed on the primary and third Tuesday of the month); South Observatory – Each day, 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on the second and fourth Monday of the month). The constructing is closed on December 29-31 and January 2-3.
2. Senso-ji (Asakusa Kannon Temple)
Asakusa is among the most well-known neighborhoods in Tokyo, primarily because of the iconic Senso-ji.
Not solely is it Tokyo’s oldest temple — courting all the way in which again to 645 AD — it’s additionally probably the most visited and visually gorgeous landmarks within the metropolis. And the perfect half? It received’t price you a single yen to go to!
For those who’re strolling from Asakusa Station, the primary construction that may greet you is the Kaminarimon (Kaminari Gate), constructed over a thousand years in the past. From right here, you’ll be strolling down Nakamise-dori, a 250m lengthy alley flanked with retailers promoting souvenirs and Japanese snacks. It’s an incredible place to browse, people-watch, or strive senbei (rice crackers) and taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries) — although in fact, the meals isn’t free! Let’s be clear about that. Don’t simply take these pancakes with out paying! LOL
On the finish, you’ll discover Senso-ji’s major corridor, constructed as a tribute to Kannon, the goddess of mercy. You’ll see guests lighting incense for good luck, making needs on the omikuji (fortune-telling stalls), and admiring the intricate particulars of the temple grounds.
By day, Senso-ji is bustling with vitality and bursting on the seams with individuals, which might be why it’s typically tagged as a vacationer entice, however I disagree. You see, I often go to at evening, when it transforms right into a serene, fantastically lit-up web site. Whether or not you’re right here for the historical past, the tradition, or simply the snacks, this temple is an absolute must-visit—and did we point out it’s fully free?
Deal with: Senso-ji, 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito Metropolis, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Nearest Station: Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, and Tobu Skytree Line)
Opening Hours: Important Corridor – Each day, 6:00 AM/6:30 AM – 5:00 PM; Grounds – 24/7
3. Meiji Shrine
The Meiji Shrine is a peaceable oasis proper within the coronary heart of the town. It’s situated in Shibuya, subsequent to the well-known Harajuku district. Cradled inside a lush, 170-acre forest, this sacred web site was inbuilt 1921 in honor of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the beloved rulers who helped modernize Japan within the late nineteenth century.
The shrine grounds are enormous, so take your time and admire the verdant environment and the breath of contemporary air. You’ll move by means of the huge picket torii gate, and observe the broad pathway resulting in the primary shrine.
On the shrine, you possibly can witness conventional Shinto rituals, make a want by writing on ema (picket prayer plaques), and even see an occasional Shinto wedding ceremony procession, with {couples} wearing gorgeous conventional apparel. For those who’re into sake, try the spectacular wall of sake barrels, donated by breweries from throughout Japan as choices to the deities.
Shrine admission is totally free, however the teahouse backyard tucked subsequent to it costs ¥500 per particular person.
Mendacity subsequent to the shrine is Yoyogi Park, which you can too entry for FREE! Takeshita-dori, the middle of youth tradition in Tokyo, can also be proper throughout the road, and sure, you possibly can discover it for FREE too.
However there’s one other iconic spot not too distant.
Deal with: Meiji Shrine, 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan
Nearest Station: Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line)
Opening Hours: The shrine opens at dawn and closes at sundown. Time varies relying on the month.
Entrance Price: Important shrine grounds, FREE; Teahouse backyard, ¥500
4. Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue
Mentioned to be the world’s busiest intersection, Shibuya Crossing completely exemplifies Tokyo’s organized chaos. Although that is most likely essentially the most touristy factor to do within the metropolis, be part of the a whole bunch (typically over a thousand!) individuals flood the intersection abruptly when the lights flip inexperienced.
For those who don’t need to be part of the insanity, you possibly can simply observe from a quiet distance, perhaps from spots like Shibuya Sky, Magnet by Shibuya 109, and even the adjoining Starbucks retailer (which, by the way in which, is among the busiest branches on the planet). Or fall in line for a second with the statue of Hachiko, essentially the most beloved devoted canine.
At evening, this space surrounding Shibuya Station actually comes alive with the form of city vitality that makes Tokyo really feel straight out of a cyberpunk film.
Whether or not you’re snapping pics, filming a time-lapse, or simply feeling the second, simply being on this space Shibuya is an expertise by itself.
Deal with: Shibuya Crossing, 2-2 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan
Nearest Station: Shibuya Station (JR Yamanote Line)
5. Akihabara
One other space that finest illustrates Tokyo’s electrical character is Akihabara. For those who love anime, manga, or video video games, that is the place to be — and sure, you possibly can see all of it free of charge! Now I’m rhyming!
Akihabara is the otaku’s final mecca and Tokyo’s quirkiest vacation spot. The streets are lined with towering electronics shops, anime billboards, and gachapon (capsule toy) machines so far as the attention can see.
For anime and manga lovers, looking shops like Animate, Mandarake, and Radio Kaikan is virtually a pilgrimage — even when you don’t purchase something, simply admiring the sheer quantity of collectibles is definitely worth the journey.
Players? You possibly can try traditional arcades like Hey and Taito Station. My favourite spot right here might be Tremendous Potato, an unassuming retailer the place you should buy nostalgic recreation consoles from household computer systems to Atari. They even promote old-school Gameboys and tamagochi!
Or simply enter gadget shops! Bic Digital camera and Yodobashi have colossal multi-story branches right here!
And when you’re simply right here for the vibe, take a stroll down Chuo-dori, the primary avenue, particularly on Sunday afternoon when it turns into a pedestrian-only zone. It’s one of the best ways to expertise Akihabara’s distinctive environment — with out spending a single yen!
From Akihabara, when you preserve strolling north, you’ll ultimately attain the following FREE merchandise on this checklist.
Deal with: Akihabara, Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0021, Japan
Nearest Station: Akihabara Station (JR Yamanote Line, JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, and Sobu Line)
6. Ueno Park
However earlier than you arrive in Ueno Park, you’ll be passing by means of Ameyayokocho, a vibrant purchasing avenue providing all kinds of merchandise! However when you make it by means of the gang, you’ll end up on the gates of Ueno Park.
Ueno Park is most well-known as probably the greatest spots to see the cherry blossoms. In spring, the park is flooded with huge crowds — a mix of locals and vacationers, all having fun with the colourful season beneath the shade of over 1,000 cherry timber.
However when it’s not sakura season, it’s one in all Tokyo’s most peaceable corners, particularly within the early morning. Stroll round Shinobazu Pond, the place you’ll discover lotus flowers, turtles, and even a small shrine in the midst of the water. The park itself is freed from cost, however it’s surrounded by six museums, a few of which acquire minimal entrance charges, starting from 500 to 1,000 yen. You possibly can spend a couple of hours studying extra in regards to the metropolis right here.
Deal with: Ueno Park, 5-20 Uenokoen, Taito Metropolis, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan
Nearest Station: Ueno Station (JR East Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, and Hibiya Line)
Entrance Price: The park itself is FREE, however some museums cost a price.
- Tokyo Metropolitan Artwork Museum: FREE
- Shitamachi Museum: JPY 300
- Nationwide Museum of Western Artwork: JPY 500
- Nationwide Museum of Nature & Science: JPY 650
- Tokyo Nationwide Museum: JPY 1000
- Ueno Royal Museum: Charges differ with every exhibition.
7. Oji Inari Shrine
Oji is a type of hidden neighborhoods in Tokyo that almost all vacationers overlook, however when you’re the kind who doesn’t at all times like going with the movement, spending a couple of hours right here might be value it! Positioned in Kita Ward, Oji has a relaxed, old-Tokyo really feel, which is in full show at its key sights just like the Oji Inari Shrine (to not be confused with Oji Shrine, which can also be close by).
In-built 1822, this shrine is devoted to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and prosperity, and is alleged to be one in all Tokyo’s oldest Inari shrines. Each New Yr’s Eve, Oji hosts the Fox Parade (Kitsune no Gyoretsu), the place individuals put on fox masks and reenact a legend about fox spirits gathering at this shrine!
Subsequent to the primary temple is a brief collection of torii gates that may take you to an enormous rock that’s believed to be miraculous in a method.
Devotees maintain this rock whereas pondering of what they need to attain, after which, legend has it that if they can raise this rock from its place, that want will come true. In any other case, based on legend, that dream isn’t for you. Vins and I attempted it one by one, and we each have been in a position to raise it up. I nonetheless keep in mind what I wanted that point, and YES, it got here true.
Only a quick stroll from the Oji Inari Shrine lies the following free spot on our checklist.
Deal with: Oji Inari Shrine, 1 Chome-12-26 Kishimachi, Kita Metropolis, Tokyo 114-0021, Japan
Nearest Tram Station: Oji-ekimae Station (Toden Arakawa Line)
Nearest Prepare Station: Oji Station (JR Keihin-Tohoku Line)
8. Asukayama Park
Asukayama Park is one in all Tokyo’s OG cherry blossom spots. This park has been a hanami (flower viewing) favourite for the reason that Edo interval. Again then, the Daijō-kan established various parks in Tokyo. Amongst them are Ueno Park, Asakusa Park, and Asukayama Park. Whereas others have grow to be crowd-magnets, Asukayama Park stay an oasis of calm in the midst of the town.
Throughout our go to, there was nobody else within the park. We had all of it to ourselves. You’ll additionally discover a few well-preserved trains contained in the park, simply subsequent to a kids’s playground. It additionally has three museums: the Paper Museum, Asukayama Museum, and Shibusawa Memorial Museum.
We visited in the midst of winter, so there wasn’t a lot coloration. However in spring, the park transforms into an unforgettable sakura vacation spot. The park is roofed with cherry timber, planted within the 18th century. For those who’re visiting in late March or early April, as a substitute of going to the crowded Ueno Park, come to Asukayama Park as a substitute and benefit from the cherry blossoms higher.
Each the Oji Inari Shrine and the Asukayama Park are alongside the historic Toden Arakawa Line (aka Tokyo Sakura Tram), Tokyo’s final surviving streetcar line. Simply watching the old-school tram roll by means of the neighborhood provides to its nostalgic attraction.
Deal with: Asukayama Park, 1 Chome-1-3 Oji, Kita Metropolis, Tokyo 114-0002, Japan
Nearest Tram Station: Asukayama Station (Toden Arakawa Line)
Nearest Prepare Station: Oji Station (JR Keihin-Tohoku Line)
9. Odaiba
For those who’re searching for a mix of futuristic vibes, gorgeous views, and enjoyable sights, look no additional than Odaiba — Tokyo’s waterfront wonderland! Positioned on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay, Odaiba is a hotspot for every little thing from purchasing malls and theme parks to jaw-dropping views of Rainbow Bridge and the enduring Gundam Statue.
However the Gundam Statue we noticed a couple of years in the past is not right here. There’s a totally different big Gundam determine within the space however we haven’t visited it but. It’s actually been some time since we have been final right here.
Anyway, you can begin by strolling alongside the waterfront and having fun with the views of the Tokyo skyline, or head to Odaiba Seaside Park, the place you possibly can loosen up by the seaside or take selfies with the mini Statue of Liberty that stands close to the shore.
The very best half? Whereas Odaiba is residence to plenty of sights that cost a price, simply wandering across the space and taking within the sights is totally free.
Deal with: Odaiba, Tokyo, Japan
Nearest Station: Daiba Station (Yurikamome Line)
10. Imperial Palace East Gardens
Positioned on the web site the place Edo Fort used to face, the Imperial Palace sits on the middle of a big park, scribbled with broad inexperienced moats and colossal stone dykes. Two bridges function the doorway to the inside part: the Maganebashi (Eyeglass Bridge) and Nijubashi (Double Bridge).
Nevertheless it stays the official residence of the Japanese Imperial Household so you possibly can’t simply enter the constructing or the fast space surrounding it. Fortunately, the East Backyard is accessible to anybody year-round (besides Mondays and Fridays).
The remainder of the complicated open to the non-touring public solely twice a yr: on January 2nd for Emperor Naruhito’s New Yr Greeting and February twenty third, to have a good time his birthday. I haven’t seen the present emperor but, however greater than a decade in the past, I used to be in a position to see his father, the previous emperor Akihito. However I nonetheless keep in mind the expertise clearly.
The road snaked from the primary constructing all the way in which to the roads, however it moved quick and in a particularly organized vogue. Only a few moments after I reached the central grounds, Emperor Akihito, Empress Michiko and the remainder of the royal household made an look and addressed the gang. Quickly, everybody cheered on the prime of their lungs, “Banzai!”
Deal with: Imperial Palace, 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda Metropolis, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan
Nearest Stations: Otemachi Station (Exit D2), Nijubashi-mae Station (Exit 6), and Tokyo Station (Marunouchi Central Exit)
Emperor’s Look Dates: January 2 (New Yr Deal with) and February 23 (Emperor’s Birthday)
The place to Keep in Tokyo
Tokyo is rarely in need of lodging choices. From luxurious to finances, there’s something for each kind of traveler. Due to their accessibility, Tokyo, Shinjuku, and Ueno stations are the favored vacationer bases. Listed here are a number of the top-rated finances motels in these areas.
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Prime Price range Resorts close to Tokyo Station
Prime Price range Resorts close to Shinjuku Station
Prime Price range Resorts close to Ueno Station
Ueno is our absolute favourite space to remain in Tokyo. After we’re within the metropolis, we at all times keep right here, near Ueno Station and Ueno Park as a result of it’s simply accessible and there’s a direct line to Narita Airport. There are additionally loads of comparatively inexpensive motels within the space.
Seek for extra Tokyo Resorts!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is optionally available, however we extremely suggest this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey will be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it provides us peace of thoughts in case of sudden delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, think about PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You possibly can GET IT HERE. Don’t neglect to make use of WORTHIT for a particular inexpensive charge.
Updates Log
2025 10 15 – First uploaded
Photographs by: Yosh Dimen, Vins Carlos, and Asta Alvarez
