What are the main districts to visit in Tokyo?

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a fascinating and huge city with a variety of districts, each with its own unique atmosphere. If you’re planning a trip to this ever-changing city, here are some of the must-visit districts. Prepare to be amazed by Tokyo’s history, culture, gastronomy and urban landscape.

1. Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of Shibuya and its famous crossroads

Shibuya is undoubtedly one of Tokyo’s most emblematic districts. Its crossing, known as the Shibuya Crossing, is one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. You’ll be amazed by the number of people crossing at the same time, creating an impressive spectacle. Outside the crossing, Shibuya is a shopping and entertainment hub, offering a multitude of shops, restaurants and bars to suit all tastes.

Don’t miss the statue of the famous dog Hachiko, a symbol of loyalty, located near the Shibuya station exit. The district is also renowned for its lively nightlife, with plenty of clubs and bars where you can dance the night away.

2. Harajuku, between modernity and tradition

Harajuku is a unique district that blends Japanese pop culture with tradition. The Meiji Shrine, in the heart of Yoyogi Park, is a place of peace and serenity. This large Shinto shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken.

In contrast to the calm of the shrine, Takeshita-dori street is a must for discovering the fashions of young Tokyoites and sampling crepes and other local delicacies. Harajuku is also the birthplace of the kawaii style of clothing, with many shops selling colourful and cute clothes and accessories.

3. Shinjuku, a lively district around the world’s busiest train station

Shinjuku is famous for its station, the busiest in the world, with over two million passengers a day. This district is a veritable commercial, cultural and administrative centre. Here you’ll find the Tokyo Metropolitan Government skyscraper, offering a panoramic view of the city from its free observatory.

There are many department stores, boutiques and restaurants in the district. Don’t miss Shinjuku Gyoen Park, a vast green space ideal for relaxing and admiring the cherry blossom in spring.

4. Kabukicho, Tokyo’s sultry district

Kabukicho is often referred to as Tokyo’s ‘red light district’, due to its concentration of bars, clubs and adult establishments. However, this district also offers a wide range of activities for all ages. You can explore the lively streets, sample local food in the many izakayas and discover video games and pachinko arcades.

The Robot Restaurant is a popular attraction, featuring a dance and music show with giant robots. Kabukicho is also a great place to discover Japanese nightlife and meet the locals.

5. Nakano, a collector’s paradise

Nakano is a residential district to the west of Shinjuku, famous for its Nakano Broadway shopping street. This shopping centre is home to the famous Mandarake shop, a veritable paradise for collectors of manga, figurines and other products derived from Japanese pop culture.

Nakano is also renowned for its narrow streets filled with bars and restaurants, offering a friendly, authentic atmosphere. Be sure to try local specialities such as ramen and takoyaki at the many food stalls in the area.

6. Akihabara, the kingdom of geeks and otakus

Akihabara is the must-visit district for fans of video games, anime and manga. Nicknamed ‘Electric Town’, it is home to countless specialist shops where you can buy games, figurines, computers and other electronic gadgets.

The district is also famous for its maid cafés, where the waitresses are dressed as maids and offer themed entertainment and shows. Akihabara is a fascinating and exotic place, where you can immerse yourself in otaku culture and discover the latest trends in Japan.

7. Odaiba, the futuristic island

Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay, offering breathtaking views of the city and Rainbow Bridge. Odaiba’s star attraction is the giant statue of Gundam, a robot from the anime series Mobile Suit Gundam.

Odaiba also has a number of shopping centres, including the VenusFort shopping centre, designed to resemble a European city, and the DiverCity Tokyo Plaza shopping centre, home to the Gundam Café. You can also visit the Miraikan Science Museum and enjoy the island’s beaches and parks.

8. Roppongi, the cosmopolitan district that never sleeps

Roppongi is a district known for its lively nightlife and cosmopolitan population. Numerous bars, clubs and restaurants are frequented by expatriates and tourists alike, offering an international atmosphere that is unique to Tokyo.

The Roppongi Hills complex is a must for art lovers and shoppers, home to the Mori Art Museum and numerous luxury boutiques. Nearby Tokyo Midtown is another modern shopping centre with shops, restaurants and the Suntory Art Museum.

9. Asakusa, the historic heart of Tokyo

Asakusa is a historic district that is home to the famous Senso-ji Buddhist temple, one of Tokyo’s oldest and most visited. Nakamise-dori, the shopping street leading to the temple, is the ideal place to buy traditional Japanese souvenirs and enjoy local snacks.

The district also offers breathtaking views of the Tokyo SkyTree, Japan’s tallest tower and the second-tallest structure in the world. Asakusa is a great place to discover traditional Japanese history and culture.

10. Yanaka, the charm of old Tokyo

Yanaka is a district preserved from rapid urban development, offering a glimpse of old Tokyo with its narrow streets, traditional houses and peaceful temples. You can take a stroll through Yanaka Cemetery, where the writer Natsume Soseki is buried, and discover the district’s many craft workshops and art galleries.

The Yanaka Ginza market is a popular place to sample local specialities and buy unique souvenirs. Be sure to visit Yanaka’s many temples, including the Tenno-ji Buddhist temple and the Nezu-jinja Shinto temple.

11. Ueno, a green and cultural district

Ueno is a multi-faceted district, home to a gigantic park, museums and temples. Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s largest green spaces, offering a peaceful setting in which to relax and admire the cherry blossoms in spring.

The park is also home to several important museums, including the Tokyo National Museum, the National Museum of Nature and Science and the Museum of Western Art. History and art lovers can also visit the Kiyomizu Kannon-do Buddhist temple and the Toshogu Shinto shrine, located in the park.

In conclusion, Tokyo is a city with many faces, offering a unique experience for every visitor. Whether you’re passionate about history, culture, gastronomy or shopping, you’ll find a district to suit you. Don’t hesitate to explore these districts on your next trip to Tokyo, and prepare to be dazzled by this fascinating metropolis.