Nestled at the foot of Mt. Nantai at an elevation of 1,269 meters, Lake Chuzenji (中禅寺湖) is one of Japan’s highest natural lakes and a breathtaking hiking destination in Nikko National Park. Formed around 20,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption, this crater lake offers a perfect blend of natural history, scenic beauty, and cultural charm. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the lake became a favoured retreat for foreign dignitaries, with summer villas and embassies lining its shores—some of which can still be visited today. The 25-kilometre hiking trail encircling the lake provides an immersive journey through…

Located in the scenic Kinugawa region of Nikko, Ryuo Valley (龍王峡) offers a spectacular hiking experience shaped by ancient volcanic activity. Named after the mythical “Dragon King,” the valley’s winding, jagged terrain is said to resemble a dragon twisting through the land. Over 22 million years ago, a massive volcanic eruption sculpted this breathtaking landscape, leaving behind massive, uniquely shaped rocks and towering cliff walls that now define the dramatic gorge carved by the Kinugawa River. The Ryuo Valley Hiking Trail stretches approximately 7 kilometres and offers a moderate hiking adventure through dense forests, steep ravines, and waterfalls. Along the…

Located within the breathtaking Nikko National Park, Senjogahara Marshland (戦場ヶ原) is a nature lover’s paradise and one of Honshu’s most iconic highland wetlands. Situated at an altitude of 1,400 meters, this expansive 400-hectare plateau was originally a volcanic lake formed by Mt. Nantai’s eruption and has since evolved into a marsh teeming with biodiversity. Over 350 species of native plants and numerous wild birds call this tranquil area home, making it a favourite destination for birdwatchers and eco-tourists. The Senjogahara Nature Trail offers a gentle and accessible hiking route that takes approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours to complete, depending on…

Musashi-Koyama Onsen Shimizu-yu is a hidden gem in Tokyo's Shinagawa Ward. It offers visitors the rare opportunity to bathe in two distinct types of natural hot spring waters. Conveniently located near Musashi-Koyama Station, this traditional onsen delivers a peaceful and authentic Japanese bathing experience, perfect for those seeking relaxation away from the city's fast pace. What sets Shimizu-yu apart is its access to two natural springs drawn from 1,500 meters underground. The first is the kogane-yu (golden water), a rich iodine-infused spring certified as a medical treatment spring. This amber-colored water is believed to improve circulation, relieve fatigue, and promote…

Bookoff Plus Nishi-Gotanda is a large, well-organised secondhand store located in the Shinagawa area of Tokyo, offering various items for bargain hunters and collectors alike. As part of the well-known Bookoff chain, this store specialises in buying and selling used books, CDs, DVDs, video games, digital appliances, brand-name fashion, and more. It’s a one-stop destination where you can explore an ever-changing inventory of everyday essentials and rare finds. Spread across two spacious floors, the first features video games, consoles, and a vast selection of books for all ages and genres. Whether you're into fiction, or study materials, this floor has…

Roppongi Hills, located in the heart of Minato-ku, Tokyo, is one of Japan’s most iconic and expansive urban developments. Designed by visionary developer Minoru Mori and opened in 2003, this sleek, self-contained city combines luxury, innovation, and culture, making it a landmark of modern Tokyo living. At its core is the 238-meter-high Mori Tower, one of Tokyo’s tallest skyscrapers, housing offices of major IT and financial corporations. The tower’s upper floors host the Tokyo City View observation deck, offering sweeping panoramas of the city skyline, and the Mori Art Museum, renowned for its focus on contemporary international art and cutting-edge…

Located in the heart of Ikebukuro on the rooftop of Sunshine City, Sunshine Aquarium is one of Tokyo's most unique and entertaining urban aquariums. Opened in 1986, it has been delighting visitors for decades with its innovative exhibits, interactive displays, and family-friendly atmosphere. One of its most famous attractions is the "Flying Penguins" tank, where penguins swim through overhead glass tunnels, giving the illusion they are flying above you—a magical moment for kids and adults alike. Home to over 37,000 sea creatures across 750 species, Sunshine Aquarium features more than 80 carefully curated tanks that recreate natural habitats from rivers,…

The Fuji TV Building in Odaiba stands as one of Tokyo’s most recognizable landmarks, captivating visitors with its bold futuristic design and media-rich experience. Designed by renowned architect Kenzo Tange, this striking silver structure features a massive spherical observation room—the Hachitama—perched high between its towers, offering sweeping views of Tokyo Bay, Rainbow Bridge, and the surrounding waterfront skyline. It’s not just an architectural icon, but also the headquarters of Fuji Television Network, one of Japan’s leading broadcasters. Visitors can ascend to the 25th floor to explore the Hachitama Spherical Observation Deck, where clear days reveal even Mount Fuji in the…

Nestled in the vibrant and culturally rich Ueno Park, Ueno Zoo is Japan’s oldest zoo and a beloved destination for both locals and international visitors. Established in 1882, it spans over 14 hectares and is home to more than 3,000 animals representing over 300 species from around the globe. From majestic elephants and fierce tigers to playful monkeys and exotic birds, the zoo offers an enriching and educational wildlife experience right in the heart of Tokyo. One of the most iconic attractions at Ueno Zoo is the giant panda enclosure, which draws thousands of visitors eager to catch a glimpse…

Tennozu Isle, a striking artificial island in Tokyo Bay, spans over 200,000 square meters and blends Edo-period history with modern innovation. Originally developed during the Edo period (1603–1868) as a strategic fortification to protect the Tokyo coastline, Tennozu Isle has since transformed into one of Tokyo’s most dynamic urban waterfront districts. The island's name is linked to a Shinto deity believed to have protected the area, giving the location spiritual and historical significance. Today, Tennozu Isle is renowned for its scenic canals, art-forward architecture, and vibrant mix of culture and commerce. The island is home to stylish office complexes, design…

Shibuya Station is more than just a major transportation hub—it's the pulsating heart of modern Tokyo. Located in one of the city’s most energetic districts, the station is famous worldwide for its proximity to the iconic Shibuya Crossing, where waves of pedestrians flow across the street in perfect organized chaos. It's one of the most photographed and filmed places in Japan, offering travelers a real-time experience of Tokyo’s fast-paced urban life. The station itself is well-connected with JR lines, Tokyo Metro, and private railways, making it an excellent starting point for exploring Tokyo. Just outside the station, visitors are greeted…

Mount Takao (高尾山), located just an hour from central Tokyo, is one of Japan’s most accessible and beloved nature escapes. Blending natural beauty with spiritual significance, this mountain offers a unique day-trip experience perfect for families, solo travelers, and groups alike. Rising to 599 meters, it boasts a network of well-maintained hiking trails catering to all fitness levels, with the most popular Route 1 leading visitors through ancient cedar forests, past temples, and up to stunning panoramic viewpoints—on clear days, even Mount Fuji can be spotted in the distance. At the heart of the mountain lies Yakuo-in Temple, a sacred…

Ginza Sony Park is a unique, open and constantly evolving urban space located in the heart of Tokyo’s fashionable Ginza district. Unlike traditional parks, it spreads across multiple underground levels, offering visitors a sensory experience that fuses creativity, innovation, and play. This experimental park was born from Sony’s vision of creating an inclusive space that merges public interaction with dynamic content. Throughout the year, Ginza Sony Park hosts a wide variety of events, exhibitions, and collaborations with artists, designers, and creators from around the world. From interactive digital art and tech showcases to music sessions and pop-up cafes, there's always…

Niku no Maekawa is a bustling standing bar that blends the expertise of a local butcher with the charm of Tokyo’s casual drinking culture. From the moment the doors open, it draws a steady stream of hungry customers who know they’re in for something special. Operated by a butcher, this spot specializes in freshly prepared meat dishes, offering a truly unique dining experience. Rather than ordering from a typical menu, guests are presented with a refrigerated showcase filled with mouthwatering meat selections—everything from skewers and grilled cuts to stews and lightly seasoned delicacies. You simply point to what you want,…

Onioshidashi Volcanic Park is a striking testament to the raw power of nature, created by a major eruption of Mount Asama in 1783. Located on the mountain’s northern slope in Gunma Prefecture, this surreal landscape is scattered with jagged volcanic rocks that resemble a natural stone garden. The name "Onioshidashi" translates to “where demons pushed out rocks,” referencing local legends that tie the dramatic scenery to mythical tales. Visitors to the park are greeted with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests, making it a popular destination for photographers and hikers. Well-maintained trails meander through the rocky terrain, providing…