September 10, 2025 | 05:19 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Tokyo has become one of the busiest cities for tourists in Japan. The capital is known for its traditional culture, restaurants, technology, and world-famous buildings. Traveling to Tokyo is not just about visiting the Tokyo Tower, crossing Shibuya, or the Disney Resort. There are many other exciting and unusual experiences in this city worth trying.
As reported by Travel + Leisure, here are 10 interesting experiences recommended when visiting Tokyo.
1. Exploring Kaneiji Temple
Established in 1625, Kaneiji was originally a temple for the Tokugawa shogun family. The temple was founded by a Buddhist monk named Tenkai. Most of the buildings collapsed during the Boshin War in the 19th century, but there are still pagodas, halls, and ancient cemeteries that offer a peaceful and dignified atmosphere. Before leaving the temple, don't forget to take home an omamori, a traditional cloth amulet available in most shrines and sacred places in Japan.
2. Tasting Omakase
Having an omakase dinner is a must-try experience. Trust the chef with the menu. They will arrange a carefully curated seasonal menu that guests can watch being prepared before enjoying it.
3. Relaxing in an Onsen
Onsen, traditional Japanese hot springs, are sourced from geothermally heated mineral water. The water is believed to have therapeutic benefits. Enjoy sitting in the steaming water, doing nothing but breathing and letting the heat relax your muscles.
4. Strolling in Golden Gai
Golden Gai in Shinjuku consists of six narrow alleys filled with small, dimly lit bars, some of which can only accommodate five people. Each bar has its own unique theme and loyal customers. Experience the nostalgia of bars that reject modern extravagance.
5. Staying in a Ryokan
A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn featuring tatami-floored rooms, shoji sliding doors, and communal hot spring baths, or onsen. These inns embody omotenashi, the ancient Japanese concept of hospitality. Although many ryokan still operate with traditional customs, others have adopted a more luxurious ethos, adding private open-air baths, luxurious spa treatments, and even Wi-Fi.
6. Tasting Japanese Sake
A guided tour at the Japan Sake and Shochu Information Center (formerly Sake Plaza) allows travelers to taste a variety of shochu and nihonshu (sake) from various prefectures in Japan, as well as a variety of other interesting local spirits.
7. Dining at Sushi Bars
Sushi bars can be found at various train stations in Tokyo. The counters are narrow and have no seating. The sushi is served immediately after it is made. There's no need to spend a long time reading the menu or asking too many questions, just point, watch it being prepared in front of you, and enjoy.
8. Watching a Sumo Tournament
Sumo wrestling at Ryogoku Kokugikan only lasts a few seconds, but the ceremonies and rituals are fascinating, from the salt throwing to the ritual entry into the ring and stomping feet. This is one of the best experiences to enjoy in Tokyo.
9. Visit Tsukiji Outer Market
Located just east of Ginza, the Tsukiji Outer Market is a small culinary district that was once the historic fish market of Tokyo. Its narrow alleyways are filled with knife vendors, street food stalls, and seafood stalls selling everything from gleaming tuna slices to freshly grilled shellfish on skewers. This experience is best enjoyed early in the morning when the seafood is still fresh.
10. Explore Yanaka District
Yanaka is one of the few districts that escaped the worst impact of World War II. It offers a glimpse into a traditional Japanese way of life, with narrow streets lined with dilapidated wooden houses and craft shops, and the gentle scent of incense wafting from centuries-old temples.
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