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Tucked away in a lush forest of towering evergreens, Meiji Shrine is a full-blown sanctuary in the heart of Tokyo. Built to honor Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, this shrine celebrates their legacy in modernizing Japan, proving that emperors can leave behind more than just portraits and history books.

It all began with an iris garden—a favorite retreat of the royal couple—until the government decided it was prime real estate for something grander. The construction kicked off in 1915, showcasing Nagare-zukuri architecture with Japanese cypress and copper accents. By 1926, the shrine was fully complete.

Then came World War II, and the original structure was reduced to rubble. But thanks to public fundraising, Meiji Shrine made a comeback in 1958, proving that Tokyo never lets a good thing stay down for long.

Now, here’s where it gets really interesting—the surrounding forest is a 700,000-square-meter wonderland with 120,000 trees from 365 species, all donated from across Japan. And this woodland escape in the heart of the city isn't just for meditation and tree-hugging. New Year's first prayers? Absolutely. Shinto rituals? Plenty of those. Making wishes on wooden plaques? Of course.

The shrine's inner precinct (Naien) houses the buildings and a museum filled with royal memorabilia—because what’s a shrine without a little royal nostalgia? The outer precinct (Gaien) is where things get even more dynamic, featuring an art gallery of imperial life murals, sports venues (including the National Stadium), and the Meiji Memorial Hall, which once saw political action but now hosts the most elegant Shinto weddings you’ll ever see.

And if all that fresh air makes you peckish, no worries! There’s a charming café, a souvenir shop (with surprisingly reasonable prices!), and, for sake enthusiasts, a glorious display of stacked sake barrels—because nothing complements Japan’s sacred site quite as tastefully as a towering tribute to the country's favorite rice-based beverage.

Just don’t be surprised if you end up staying longer than planned—it’s that kind of place. And hey, if you do end up making a wish here, aim high—after all, Emperor Meiji helped modernize a whole nation. So, dream big.

Tip:
If you can, drop by on a Sunday—that’s when the Shinto weddings happen—traditional, colorful, and utterly mesmerizing. Plus, the entrance is free from sunrise to sunset.

Yoyogi Park is Tokyo’s backyard. Here, the city unwinds, musicians jam, and martial artists practice moves that would make an action hero jealous. Nestled between Harajuku Station and Meiji Shrine, this green haven is where Sundays turn into a festival of impromptu concerts, cycling sprees, and the occasional samurai-in-training.

But before it became Tokyo’s chill-out zone, Yoyogi Park had quite the résumé. Back in 1910, this very spot made history when Captain Yoshitoshi Tokugawa pulled off Japan’s first successful powered flight—proving that Tokyo was reaching for the skies long before skyscrapers took over.

Fast forward a few decades, and the area had a drastic career shift—first as an army parade ground, then known as Washington Heights, a post-WWII military housing complex for U.S. officers. Picture suburban America, but in the middle of Tokyo. Then came the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, and Yoyogi got its biggest makeover yet. The Yoyogi National Gymnasium was built to host swimming, diving, and basketball events. That stunning, wave-like structure still stands tall today, hosting concerts and major events.

By 1967, the space between the gymnasium and Meiji Shrine was transformed into what we now call Yoyogi Park—a sprawling playground for Tokyoites and visitors alike.

Nowadays, this is the spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring, where people flock with picnic baskets, cameras, and probably a few too many snacks. With bike paths, sports courts, and rental bicycles, it is also a great place to work off all those ramen adventures.

Ultimately, Yoyogi Park is the perfect escape from Tokyo’s neon jungle—be it for a relaxing stroll, a jam session, or just some top-tier people-watching. And hey, if you suddenly feel the urge to break into a martial arts routine or start a drum circle—don’t worry, you won’t be the only one. Just maybe leave the flying experiments to Captain Tokugawa...

Near the Western Terminus of Takeshita St, this is a store with TONS of bubble style vending machines.

In Takeshita Street, fashion meets chaos, trends are born, and your credit card may or may not survive the experience.

Nestled in the heart of Harajuku, this 350-meter wonderland stretches from Harajuku Station to Meiji Dori, and for seven glorious hours a day—from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.—it belongs exclusively to pedestrians. That means no cars, no bikes—just you, your shopping bags, and an army of trend-hungry fashionistas.

So, what’s the big deal? Well, Takeshita Street is the undisputed capital of “kawaii” culture, the place where pastel-colored frills, Gothic- and Lolita-style dresses, as well as oversized anime hoodies peacefully coexist. Whether you’re a die-hard fashion fan or just here for the spectacle, one thing’s for sure: you’ve never seen a shopping street quite like this.

The mix is a little bit of everything. Quirky independent boutiques, vintage shops, and places so trendy they’re basically fashion laboratories—testing out tomorrow’s biggest trends before the rest of the world even knows they exist. Sure, you’ll find some familiar names, too, like The Body Shop, McDonald's, and 7-Eleven, but let’s be honest—you’re not here for a cheeseburger.

Takeshita Street first strutted onto the scene in 1976, but it really hit its stride in the '90s, when it became ground zero for Japan’s most iconic subcultures. Hip-hop, Gothic, Lolita—you name it, Takeshita had it. And if it didn’t? Well, it probably showed up the next week.

By the mid-2000s, Chinese tourists arrived in droves, hunting down souvenirs, beauty products, and whatever treasure lurked in the 100-yen shops. And though Takeshita has evolved, one thing remains: this street is primarily about an experience rather than sheer shopping.

Oh, and for those wondering—yes, there are rules. No adult entertainment establishments. No shady business. Just pure, unfiltered, Harajuku magic.

For those seeking to shop, gawk, or question their entire wardrobe, Takeshita Street is a definite go-to. But beware—once you’ve stepped into this kawaii vortex, regular shopping streets may never be the same. So, proceed with caution... and maybe an extra suitcase.

Togo Shrine, nestled in Tokyo's vibrant Harajuku area known for youth fashion, stands as a serene Shinto sanctuary. It was founded in the late stages of World War II to honor Admiral Heihachiro Togo, a prominent figure in Japanese history.

Admiral Heihachiro Togo (1848-1934) is a revered figure in Japanese naval history. Having honed his naval skills in the United Kingdom, Togo achieved fame for leading Japan to a monumental victory over the Russian Baltic Fleet at the Battle of Tsushima in May 1905. This triumph during the Russo-Japanese War marked a historic moment where a non-Western nation overpowered a major Western power. Togo, celebrated as the "Nelson of Japan," became a national icon and a symbol of victory.

The shrine, constructed in 1937, four years after Togo's passing, occupies the former estate of the Tottori prefecture's lord. Its location near the Meiji Jingu Shrine is significant, as it is close to the site dedicated to Emperor Meiji, Togo's mentor.

In 1945, the shrine suffered destruction due to Allied bombings but was reconstructed in concrete in 1964. In 1989, it faced an attack attempt by a radical Japanese left-wing group just weeks before Emperor Hirohito's funeral.

Togo Shrine comprises two main areas: the Togo Memorial Hall, set in a picturesque garden with a pond, and the shrine itself, situated on elevated terrain. The Hall and its adjacent garden, featuring a pond with vibrant carp, bridges, and traditional Japanese landscaping, offer a peaceful and visually appealing environment. The shrine primarily hosts Shinto weddings, making it a common sight to see newlyweds taking photos in the scenic garden.

Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku is a striking shopping complex in Tokyo known for its mirrored entrance and unique architectural design. Located in the fashionable Harajuku district, it combines trendy shops, cafes, and an iconic rooftop terrace offering city views and a peaceful escape from the bustling streets below. It’s a must-visit for those interested in Tokyo’s vibrant fashion scene, creative design, and urban culture.

The Ōta Memorial Museum of Art in Tokyo is a small but renowned museum dedicated to Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints, featuring rotating exhibits that showcase famous works from artists like Hokusai and Hiroshige. Located in the Harajuku area, it offers a peaceful, immersive look into traditional Japanese art and history, making it a meaningful stop for anyone interested in Japan's cultural heritage.

Tokyo’s most stylish runway disguised as a street, Omotesando is a wide, tree-lined avenue where high fashion meets history, and luxury brands rub elbows with quirky boutiques. It’s the kind of place where you can sip on a meticulously crafted latte while deciding whether today is a Louis Vuitton kind of day or a Zara one. No judgment...

Back in the Taisho era (between 1912 and 1926), this iconic avenue—stretching from the Meiji Shrine (a sacred place dedicated to Emperor Meiji) to Aoyama Street—served as the grand entrance to the shrine itself. Presently, it’s less about emperors and more about exclusive designer showrooms and impeccably dressed pedestrians who look like they walked straight out of a fashion editorial.

Some luxury brand gurus even consider Omotesando one of Tokyo’s prime luxury destinations—and who are we to argue when Gucci, Alexander McQueen, and Prada are all here within strolling distance? Of course, if you’re more into fast fashion, H&M, Gap, and Zara are ready to supply the latest trends without the luxury price tag.

But Omotesando isn’t just about shopping—it’s an experience. Pop into Kiddyland for the latest must-have toys, browse the Laforet shopping complex for trendsetting streetwear, or dive into the Oriental Bazaar, a one-stop shop for all things traditionally Japanese. And if you wander off into the side streets, you’ll stumble upon Tokyo’s coziest cafes, hidden bars, and boutique stores brimming with personality.

On top of that, every March, Omotesando throws on some green and transforms into the home of Tokyo’s annual Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. Because, indeed, what kind of luxury fashion district in Japan can do without leprechauns, shamrocks, and a sea of people celebrating Irish culture?

You may be here to shop, sip, stroll, or just absorb the sheer fabulousness of it all, but note: your wallet might not leave as full as your shopping bags.

What to buy here: Rilakkuma bear.

This cute stuffed animal bear is always in a relaxed mood. The included sleeping bag made out of a soft boa will let you tuck your bear in at night and say good morning when the sun comes up. The Rilakkuma bear simply snuggles with your child to help remedy tranquility with children. The sleeping bag is also reversible with an adorable polka-dot fabric for the inside. Bears such as the Rilakkuma became popular in Japan in around 2008 when Kiddy Land underwent remodeling. Since then, the stores have housed the collection of these bears as an iconic symbol of the typical Japanese child. Kiddy Land, located 6-on 1-9 Jingu-mae in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo houses numerous furry friends, perfect for small children.