On my previous post, I expressed how I felt in Tokyo, my thoughts and my opinion. Today, I’ll be more focus on some of the tourist attractions in this fabulous city.
Shibuya 渋谷 – It’s the famous intersection where thousands of people cross it every day. There is a good view over the crossing from the Starbucks on the 2nd floor of the Q-front building or from above through the windows in Shibuya train station, across from the Myth of Tomorrow mural. It’s very popular because of the shops, restaurants and entertainment area and one of Tokyo’s most colourful and busy districts. In Shibuya, you will find the statue of a dog called Hachiko. There is even a movie, with Richard Gere, about it: Hachi: A Dog’s Tale.
Meiji Jingu Shrine 明治神宮 – is a large Shinto shrine and surrounded by the vast Yoyogi Park. It is one of the most visited religious site in Japan. It’s an easy walk with wide paths through the park and torii gates to the main shrine while you will pass by a wall of sake’s and wine’s Barrels, water fountain for purification, etc. On weekends, you may also catch sight of a marriage procession with a bride wearing an immaculate white kimono and the groom in a traditional black robe, walking together under a big red parasol (we’re fortunate and saw it). The park is a short walk from Yoyogi Station or Harajuku Station on the Yamanote Line.
Yoyogi Park 代々木公園 – it’s one of the loveliest parks in the city with wide-open green space and in a prime location between Harajuku 原宿 and Shibuya. There are festivals and events almost every weekend.
Takeshita-Dori 竹下通り – or Takeshita Street. The street is mainly filled with independent stores and smaller brands along with some chain stores. It was famous because of the many young people engaged in cosplay (“costume play”), dressed up in costumes to resemble anime characters, punk musicians, etc., but they are less seen lately. The Street is most well known for its sweet crepes filled with strawberries, creams, brownies, etc. The street is in the Harajuku Station.
Ura-Harajuku – is a name given to the network of smaller Harajuku backstreets and it is a relatively quieter place that features a range of smaller cafes, bars, and restaurants, as well as boutique.
Omotesando 表参道 – here you will find an avenue called Omotesando-Dori where are some international luxury brands such as Chanel, Versace, Gucci and many more, along with chain stores like Zara, H&M, Uniqlo, etc. The road is lovely with loads of trees, and it’s a nice walk. If you like it, head to the iconic Omotesando Hills mall for seven floors of high-end fashion. To get there: the Meiji-Jingumae Station or Omotesando Station.
My next posts are about Shinjuku and Asakusa. I hope I could be of any help for you to plan your days in Tokyo.
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