We all love googling about all the tourist stuff to do when visiting a new place. But most of the time we miss out on the hidden, quieter, less popular yet uniquely refreshing adventures than replenish our souls. While visiting “The Great Buddha” of Kamakura cast in bronze, carries its own sense of wonder what stays with us is not the places we ticked off on our never-ending checklists but the stories that we live to tell. We have compiled a few unconventional experiences for you; so take your pick and throw out the checklist, find your own voice and write your own story. with these alternative things to do in when in Tokyo.
1. Been to the National Museum of Nature and Science? Dive into the past at Intermediatheque
A go-to place for all science geeks, the National Museum of Nature and Science has a notable collection of exhibits and is very educational. For something less crowded and more unconventional check out Intermediatheque, a museum that houses a vast collection from the University of Tokyo, jointly operated by the Japan Post and the University Museum. Yoshiaki Nishino, Founder and Director of the Intermediatheque in Tokyo, Japan, uses multiple forms of media specifically the teatro sintetico, or futurist theater, as a foundational core of the museum. Instead of being yet another museum where specimens are preserved in formalin solution or historical artifacts are displayed for scores of uncomprehending eyes, Intermediatheque uses a subtle but provocative arrangement and utilizes the past not only as a means for educating the masses but also to evoke ideas for the creation of new art. Located right at the center of Tokyo, it is situated near the exquisite Tokyo Station Hotel.
Intermediatheque
Address: JP Tower Museum Intermediatheque, JP Tower/Kitte Floors 2 & 3, 2-7-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Website: Intermediatheque
2. Been to the Imperial Palace? Visit Hie-jinja, the protector shrine of the Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace has beautiful gardens where one can enjoy a relaxing walk and the cherry blossoms deserve a special mention particularly if you are visiting during spring. The palace itself is closed to the general public but the east gardens are kept open. If you are planning to visit shines or see tori gates head over to visit Hie-jinja, the protector shrine of the Imperial Palace. An eight-minute walk from Akasaka Station, it was originally constructed by Ota Dokan in 1478, on the grounds of Edo Castle and was rebuilt post the second world war after the Tokyo bombings. It is the abode of the deity Oyamakui-no-kami, the god of Mount Hie in Shiga. Since it is more a local shrine than a tourist attraction, the atmosphere is serene and perfect for meditation and prayers. Spotlessly clean with beautiful stairways and tori gates this place is a refreshing break from the chattering streets and a fast-paced life. The temple is gauded by a monkey couple with a child cradled in the arms, a symbol for fertility.
Hie Shrine
Address: 2-10-5 Nagatacho, Chiyoda, Tokyo 100-0014, Japan
Website: Hie Shrine
3. Been to the Kabukicho Robot Restaurant? Check out the Vampire Cafe this time!
The Robot Restaurant in Kabukicho is an experience that would leave you in high spirits yet completely baffled! They put up a very entertaining show complete with dancers and toy robots and the place is usually cramped with tourists. Though you can get drinks here it is not an actual restaurant. If you’re looking to fill your stomach while getting entertained be sure to dine at the Vampire Café. Located in the district of Ginza, on the 7th floor of an ordinary building, is the themed cafe designed by Katsunori Suzuki where you can have “The dead body of Van Helsing” or “Sweet coffin burnt and ruined” served to you for dinner, raising the time-honored question can vampires eat? Home of Count Dracula, with his coffin in the middle of the room, it is the right amount of spooky and eerie. Complete with chandeliers with bats flying around, thick red drapes, bloodstained mirrors skulls, incantations and the perfect host who’s always in character, it is definitely a dining experience not to be missed. Despite being a little steep on the budget, the ambiance, the food, and the cocktails served here are enjoyable and more than atone for it.
Vampire Cafe
Address: Bldg. 7F, 6-7-6 Ginza Chuo-ku Tokyo
Website: Vampire Cafe Menu
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4. Been to Ueno Park? Picnic at Yoyogi-kōen this time! (from USD 124.0)
The Ueno Park is beautiful and has several attractions on its grounds including the Tokyo National Museum, Ueno zoo and the National Museum of Western Art. You will find locals as well as tourists headed here to enjoy a contemplative walk or to visit the shrines, practice baseball, or simply to learn more about Japanese history and culture. But for a more laidback experience head to Yoyogi park, especially on a Sunday and you might step right into a weekend fair. One of the largest city parks in Tokyo, apart from being a hangout spot for youngsters it is also well known to joggers. It has wide lawns, few ponds and is a decent spot for witnessing cherry trees blossom during spring. The ginkgo tree forest is spectacular especially during autumn when it turns into a vivid golden color. Once the site of the Summer Olympic Games it is now frequented by rock music enthusiasts. Every Sunday you get to experience a live rock concert with people stepping out of a time machine from the 50s. Located next to the Meiji Shrine, it is a five-minute walk from Harajuku Station.
Tokyo Bike Tour with Meiji-jingu Shrine, Aoyama Cemetery
Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes
Tokyo Tour Guide
Ayano
Hello! I am Ayano, a local host in Tokyo. I have been living in Tokyo for over 10 years, so I know a wide range of restaurants, bars, cafes, and tourist spots! Leave your Tokyo sightseeing to me. I have traveled to various countries and had unforgettable experiences. Being passionate about traveling, I really want to take you to the captivating places in Tokyo. As photography is my hobby, I will capture beautiful photos that will become lasting memories. Join my tour and let's explore Tokyo together!
Tours by Ayano
5. Been to Disneyland? Visit Sanrio Puroland, the "Hello Kitty" version of Disneyland (from USD 16.5)
Disney fans can always enjoy a trip to Tokyo Disneyland at the Tokyo Disney Resort. There are several unique attractions but you will be disappointed if you are looking for an exact replica of the US Disney. However, if you are a Hello Kitty fan, a more suited option would be to head to Sanrio Puroland, the “Hello Kitty” version of Disneyland. Sanrio Puroland is an indoor theme park in western Tokyo which attracts more than a million visitors every year. It is situated at Tama New Town, Tokyo, at a walking distance from Tama center. Complete with themed rides, live shows, musicals, a life-sized version of Kitty’s house and a boat ride filled with all Sanrio characters, it is a treat for all Kitty fans. You get a chance to meet all the characters and the costumes, the dancing, the shows, especially the Kawaii Kabuki is quite phenomenal though it is completely in Japanese. Merchandise is available in the gift shops and the food though not mouth-watering is considerably affordable.
Visit Hello Kitty with Tokyo Sanrio Puroland Tickets
Duration: 1 Day(s) Duration
Explore the obscure!
Have you ever tried to see the places you visit from the eyes of the locals? A city cannot be truly experienced just by standing witness to its monuments or browsing through its museum. Traveling can be a therapeutic experience for those of us who allow it to be so. Immerse yourself in the flavors of the local food, walk through those meandering streets, read a local author, have conversations, allow the mystery to unfold without rushing it. Don’t be scared to live a little.
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