Hello fellas here we go again with a new country and new places. So, today we are going to explore all the tourist places of Tokyo, Japan. If you are planning a trip to Tokyo, Japan then stick with us till the end. This article will discuss all the hidden gems of Tokyo and you will find some vital tips in the end.
8 Off The Beaten Paths In Tokyo For Your Next Trip
Trying to find hidden gems in Tokyo? Stay here, we will take you off the beaten paths surviving silently amid the sprawling metropolis of Tokyo.
Harmonica Yokocho, Kichijoji
Here’s the first off-the-beaten-path you shouldn’t miss while visiting Japan. The district of Kichijoji lies Harmonica Yokocho. History showed its rough aspects here, when the now alluring district served are a black market post World War II. But now, this hidden gem is a vibrant hotspot known for a mesmerizing blend of eclectic establishments and winding alleyways. If you want to witness a blend of traditional Tokyo with the newness of the modern world, Kichijoji is the perfect place to be.
The diversity of small businesses and restaurants serving delicious ramen (everything hidden in a maze-like layout), makes this place one of the hidden gems in Japan. Every turn in this district will take you to a quaint coffee shop an antique shop a welcoing izakaya and even a snug yakitori stand. This is the place that resonates with the authentic, local spirit of Tokyo.
The Suntory Musashino Brewery
While talking about off-the-beaten-paths, Suntory comes to mind effortlessly because of its unique essence. This hidden gem is located away from the hustle of Tokyo and offers a colloquial yet serene experience.
Once you step inside, the hum of machines and the earthy scent of brewing beer will not only welcome you but will also take you to the heart of authentic Japanese brewing culture. You can see the much-celebrated Suntory Premium Malts beer coming to life here. From a tasting session of the freshest brews to irresistible insights into the brewing process – a beer lover will find haven in the Suntory Musashino Brewery.
The Meguro Parasitological Museum
Located in a quiet residential neighbourhood of Meguro, this museum deserves to be included in this list of off-the-beaten paths in Japan. However, the Parasitological Museum is not for the faint-hearted. You will find it a curious treasure, a small unique world, one-of-a-kind, surviving silently in the hustling expanse of Tokyo.
It is the only museum in the world which is dedicated to parasites. So, if you are eager to know more about these mysterious creatures that share this world with us in the most intimate ways, this hidden gem of Japan will let you do it.
Gotokuji Temple
Discovering Tokyo’s hidden gems will take you off the beaten path and reveal the best-kept secrets of Japan like the Gotokuji Temple. The absolute serenity in the atmosphere is something to die for. This temple is closely nestled in the Setagaya ward.
You’ll see this beauty amazingly adorned with hundreds and hundreds of “Maneki-neko’ cat figurines. Natives believe that the delightful spectacle of cat statues brings good fortune to visitors. If you are into sacred, divine or peaceful sights, this temple is the best place for you in Japan.
The enchanting Gotokuji Temple exudes a distinctive charm. However, it is less frequently visited by tourists. One of the reasons why this is still one of the hidden gems it is less approachable due to its distance from the core of Tokyo.
A small trip to Gotokuji Temple will leave you with a thoroughly different experience that is hard to find anywhere else in Japan. People enjoy just sitting within the grounds, and admiring the charming figurines. In all, this is the right spot to let yourself soak in the peaceful ambience.
Nakano Broadway
Nakano Broadway is a shopping complex (not an ordinary one). You will find glimpses of otaku culture, anime, Japanese pop, brims with manga and some amazing vintage collectables here. The flashy Akihabara exudes a nostalgic aura.
Fortunately, Nakano Broadway is still away from aggressive tourism and it is still off-the-beaten-path in Japan. Seasoned visitors and locals can still cherish it as a hidden gem.
You’ll find a labyrinth of shops, filled with rare trinkets and obscure manga. Before you know it, this shopping complex will leave you smitten. If you are a foodie, you will find some of the most delicious dishes here. Thanks to the soul-filling eateries! From soft-serve cones to Takoyaki that just melts in your mouth. Both the collectables and culinary delights are enthralling in Nakano.
Tokyo DisneyLand and Tokyo Disney Sea
While talking about hidden gems of Japan, it would be an injustice to leave Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea behind. Even though these are fairly famous, they still deserve to be on every tourist’s itinerary. Both of these are parts of the Tokyo Disney Resort, it is situated in Usayasu, Chiba Prefecture.
As the name clarifies, it is a theme park. You can see amazing attractions such as Splash Mountain where people enjoy white-water rafting on a log boat. Then, there is Pooh’s Hunny Hunt and Jungle Cruise boat expedition as well. Cinderella’s Castle is an unmissable famous landmark in Tokyo Disney Resort.
This farm spread over 176-acre offers night shows on the water, where you can see mesmerizing water-screen projections of Aladdin and Cinderella. The night show also includes mesmerising reflections of the magical Disneyland.
Kagurazaka
Let’s traverse off the beaten path to Kagurazaka, where the past meets the present. If you love to be amid old-world charm but don’t want to live the modern vibes completely, Kagurazaka is your hidden gem in Japan. While the stylish boutiques, French patisseries and cool bistros give you a modern, vibrant vibe, the narrow alleys and traditional houses emanate the essence of the past at the same time.
It is not easily found in a tourist’s itinerary, but the tranquil charm that this place has to offer is simply irresistible.
Ebisu Yokochu
Ebishu Yokochu is yet again one of the hidden gems in Japan. The best part is reaching here is super simple as it’s just a stone’s throw away from the Ebisu Station. You’ll be welcomed with a labyrinth of alleys aglow with lanterns. A smorgasbord of izakayas will also entice you with the enchanting smells of traditional Japanese cuisine.
In spite of its one-of-a-kind charm, Ebisu Yokocho is not frequently visited by lots of tourists and that’s why it can you off the beaten path. Far away from the busy routes, serving peacefully as a culinary sanctuary for locals and seasoned tourists.
Best Time To Visit Tokyo, Japan
The best time to visit Tokyo is between September to November and March to April. During these seasons, Autumn brings comfortable temperatures and colourful foliage, both of these are ideal for enjoying the authentic off-the-beaten-path in Tokyo.
Even though the temperature during spring is decent enough, however, instead of colourful foliage, you will get to cherish cherry blossom trees in their full bloom. Hence, spring is also a peak tourist season in Japan.
The temperature during summer doesn’t allow for a soothing trip as Japan is oppressively hot at this time. On the contrary, winter gets extremely chilly here, which again restricts your experience while cherishing the hidden gems of Tokyo, Japan.
Things to Know Before Visiting Tokyo, Japan
Here are some important tips for all those visiting the Tokyo, Japan for the very first time.
- Take care of your breakfast – Most cafes often after 11 am
Even though you can find the greatest feast on earth in Tokyo, it will start at lunchtime. Most of the eateries open at lunch. Hardly any good restaurants are offering breakfast. You should specifically spot an international joint, even one that should clearly mention breakfast on its menu. Generally, people have breakfast at home, from a convenience store or they simply skip it.
- Spend wisely – Having a train pass just for exploring Tokyo might be expensive
Tourists who buy Japan Rail Pass, generally intend to visit more than one city. So, if you are traveling to two or more cities go ahead to get a Japan Rail Pass. But if you are only visiting Tokyo, this pass will be expensive for you.
- Have some cash – Always! Don’t expect too much from online payments
Japan is considered a futuristic country all around the world, but it is still deeply rooted in intangibility. Sensory experience is still a thing in Japan, hence, actually, the currency is widely used and appreciated (not just for locals). Japanese people are still fondly renting comics rather than reading on Kindle. You will still find denizens ordering expensive carved seals and not favouring digital signatures. People are less likely to carry debit and credit cards here. They mostly pay in expect to receive payments in cash as well. So, always have some extra Yen at all times while you are in Tokyo.