Explore a world where Japanese traditions still abound, and encounter centuries-old Edo vibes that continue to shape Tokyo’s cultural identity today. Nishitokyo’s Tanashi area once flourished as a stop on the way to Edo Castle, and it preserves traditions rooted in everyday life. Learn about its history by exploring in and around Tanashi Jinja Shrine and try making crafts like fabric flowers for a taste of Nishitokyo’s artisanal spirit. Then, feel the heartbeat of Japanese culture for yourself with a Japanese drumming workshop that carries on a performative legacy spanning countless generations. Elements of Tokyo’s past and Japanese aesthetics can be found thriving in Minato City and are accessible through the beauty of Japanese gardens and calligraphy. Experience garden traditions in harmony with nature at a centuries-old garden with over 400 years of history and discover the time-honored art of brush calligraphy. DISCOVERING TOKYO puts the spotlight on various recommended spots and experiences introduced by Tokyo’s many municipalities. Get hands-on and explore Tokyo’s past for yourself.

Another side of Tokyo, abound with nature and history, awaits west of its center. Here, you’ll find the great outdoors of Mount Takao and the timeless satoyama landscape of Musashimurayama, where you can reflect on the local history and culture, indulge in the bounties of the land, and relax. Begin your Hachioji journey with a visit to Mount Takao, a leisure destination that has been popular for ages. On your way up, savor soba noodles topped with grated yam and take in the views. Then, head down the mountain and warm up with a sweet red bean soup served with mochi. To finish off your trip, enjoy seasonal food grilled carefully over a traditional hearth. If you head to Musashimurayama, you’ll come face-to-face with a rural landscape reminiscent of the Japan of old. Explore the hills and bamboo groves of a local park, then visit a thatched-roof folk house and get a feel for life in the Edo Period (1603–1868), when people lived in harmony with nature. Finally, try some rich Murayama Kate Udon noodles, made with locally grown wheat and seasonal vegetables, and you’ll come to understand the depth of the local food culture. DISCOVERING TOKYO puts the spotlight on various recommended spots and experiences introduced by Tokyo’s many municipalities. Come take in the beautiful scenery alongside traditional flavors.

Explore places in Tokyo that highlight its abundant nature and traditions from its days as the samurai capital of Edo. Located near the heart of the metropolis, Bunkyo City is home to two sprawling gardens that are among the oldest in Tokyo. Stroll through them and discover what makes each one special, all while enjoying some mindful moments in natural serenity. Venture to Fuchu City in western Tokyo and witness the harmonious coexistence of the city’s nature and heritage. In one of its lush forests, wander through cascades of crimson and golden autumn leaves and peer into buildings reminiscent of centuries past. DISCOVERING TOKYO puts the spotlight on various recommended spots and experiences introduced by Tokyo’s many municipalities. Step back in time and experience the nature and traditions that Tokyoites have cherished for countless generations.

While Tokyo transforms after sunset, there’s more to it than neon lights, with many activities showcasing its Edo period (1603–1868) traditions and nature. Enjoy food and drinks along an alley with 20th-century charm in Kamata in Ota City or embrace the calm of Hinohara Village to see a new side to Tokyo after dark. Start your jaunt in Ota City with a visit to the hidden sushi bar Hatsunezushi, which crafts sushi according to Edo-period traditions. Then head to Bourbon Road, a retro alley near Kamata Station with over 60 unique bars and eateries, and enjoy some curated sake at a standing bar like Nihonsyu-Bito. A serene night outside awaits in Hinohara. See Hossawa Falls, then go to Janoyu Onsen Takara-so, a “hidden hot spring” inn dating back over 300 years, and take a quick dip in its baths. At night, enjoy a fireside barbecue dinner at FUREAI Glamping & BBQ. DISCOVERING TOKYO puts the spotlight on various recommended spots and experiences introduced by Tokyo’s many municipalities. Come see a new side to Tokyo after dark.

During the Edo period (1603–1868), Japan enjoyed prolonged peace and stability after centuries of conflict. As life improved, people flocked to the sprawling capital of Edo (present-day Tokyo), bringing their crafts with them. This would give rise to a newfound appreciation for the arts and a culture unique to Edo’s townspeople that lives on today. Yuzen dyeing, andon paper lanterns, and ukiyo-e woodblock prints were popular among the masses and intertwined with daily life. In Arakawa City, you can paint designs with Yuzen techniques and make your own andon paper lantern. Moments away from the busy, trendsetting streets of Harajuku in Shibuya City, appreciate ukiyo-e art, and delve into the history of the village of Onden that once stood there and inspired the famed artist Katsushika Hokusai (1760–1849). DISCOVERING TOKYO puts the spotlight on various recommended spots and experiences introduced by Tokyo’s many municipalities. Step back in time and experience the arts and culture of Edo.

Tokyo has many charming historic neighborhoods that transport you back in time, offering an enchanting journey into Tokyo’s past and various cultural experiences.<br><br>First, head to Shibamata in Katsushika City steeped in history. Stroll along a lively approach to a temple lined with old-fashioned shops and try local delicacies. Then, take in the beauty of a traditional Japanese home garden, and immerse yourself in retro Tokyo at a museum dedicated to a long-running film series.<br><br>In Kita City, special cultural experiences await. Dress up in kimono and wander through the serene grounds of a shrine while listening to ancient Japanese music. Photos taken by a professional photographer will create lifelong memories. Furthermore, take a class on authentic swordsmanship techniques, and train the body and mind by learning Bushido, the “way of the warrior.”<br><br>DISCOVERING TOKYO puts the spotlight on various recommended spots and experiences introduced by Tokyo’s many municipalities. Dive into Tokyo’s cultural heritage with all five senses.

Visit Tokyo and let its unparalleled flavors orchestrate special moments you will cherish forever.The culinary scene around Chofu City’s Jindaiji Temple is a delicious reflection of its centuries of history. Refresh your body and soul with some traditional, handmade soba noodles or stop by shops in the area for some Japanese wagashi sweets, local beer, and snacks.The tranquil island of Shikinejima, surrounded by the vast ocean and lush greenery, offers unique takeout options featuring local ingredients and exquisite full-course dining experiences.DISCOVERING TOKYO puts the spotlight on various recommended spots and experiences introduced by Tokyo’s many municipalities.Let your taste buds be your guide and discover another side to Tokyo.

Tokyo has a myriad of nightlife gems still waiting to be discovered. Go out and seek a special after-dark experience.Kichijoji, bustling with shoppers during the day, takes on a different ambience at night. Relax at a late-night café, unwind at a jazz joint, and find serenity in a charming bar.In Nakano City, which is easily accessible from Shinjuku and abound with eateries, you might stumble upon a one-of-a-kind nighttime experience. Look for treasures at a shopping facility that offers a glimpse into Japan’s subculture, end your day with a leisurely meal at an izakaya pub, and find your new favorite shops during a stroll.DISCOVERING TOKYO puts the spotlight on various recommended spots and experiences introduced by Tokyo’s many municipalities.Experience Tokyo at night like never before.

Tokyo is filled with unique destinations, from places that let you jump headfirst into your favorite book or anime to artistic spots that let you experience Japan’s traditional culture first-hand.<br><br>Kiki’s Museum of Literature in Edogawa City, for example, uses world-famous literary works as its motif and allows you to immerse yourself in their respective worlds or relax out on the lawn with a book in hand.<br><br>The Hinode Washi Workshop, nestled amid the natural scenery of the town of Hinode, invites you to explore the sustainable art of Japanese washi paper making and craft unique paper creations to take home, such as postcards and LED candle holders.<br><br>DISCOVERING TOKYO puts the spotlight on various recommended spots and experiences introduced by Tokyo’s many municipalities.<br>Uncover your next inspiration—right here in Tokyo.

Venture beyond the city center to gorgeous islands and mountains that captivate travelers worldwide.Western Tokyo’s Mt. Mitake is dotted with hiking trails. Wash your worries away among the soothing sounds of its clear streams and the majesty of its waterfalls, and reconnect with your inner self at the shukubo (shrine lodgings) surrounded by nature.Izu Oshima is an island with a unique landscape formed by volcanic activity, creating a habitat for a variety of marine life. Uncover some of nature’s best-kept secrets lying beneath the waves.Join us on an exciting journey to discover another side to Tokyo.

Tokyo is home to countless symbolic landmarks, traditional architecture, and sightseeing spots. However, beyond these well-known attractions, the hidden backstreets of Tokyo offer a glimpse into the authentic everyday lives of its locals, allowing you to experience the city from a completely different perspective. From little shrines tucked away in the back alleys of one of the city’s most upscale shopping districts, majestic views of the Tokyo skyline from the rooftop of a luxury shopping complex, a local shopping street steeped in history and lined with trendy little shops, cafes, and restaurants and historic residences designated as National Important Cultural Properties, the backstreets and other hidden spots of Tokyo may change your perception of the city.<br><br>We will be taking a journey through three different cities – Setagaya City, Shinagawa City, and Chuo City. During this exploration, we will provide an inside look at a selection of unique architectural and traditional structures, delicious local cuisine and historical sites that Tokyo has to offer while introducing the charm of walking around the city.

Tokyo, previously known as Edo, has been a beacon and a magnet for the greatest creative talent for centuries, preserving age-old traditions and fostering cutting-edge innovators. There are countless opportunities for pleasure and inspiration, both for admirers of artistic expression and for fellow creators.

While Tokyo is known as Japan’s metropolitan hub, it’s also home to a series of volcanic islands off the coast of the peninsula. Known as the Izu Islands, these destinations boast remarkable treasures of the earth and sea, including volcanoes, oceans, hot springs, mountains, and even a desert!

Tokyo’s vibrant city center is an enthralling tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year from across Japan and around the world. But sometimes, you just want to take time out and escape the hustle and bustle, to recharge your batteries and visit places away from well-worn tourist routes. This time, we have selected spots where you can learn about and enjoy historic traditions and culture firmly rooted in local communities, but which are also innovating with the changing times. These mellow outings will appeal to well-seasoned travelers with sophisticated tastes, revealing another side of Tokyo, a greater diversity of lifestyles, and a richer cultural tapestry. These articles, part of an ongoing series, were produced with assistance from three local municipalities: Fussa, Kunitachi, and Mizuho, to introduce visitors to a wider range of unique experiences across Tokyo. We delve into (and taste) traditional and modern sake and beer brewing at Ishikawa Brewery in Fussa City, and explore Japan’s unique heritage of urban agriculture at Hatakenbo in Kunitachi City. Finally, we visit Koshinkan, in Mizuho Town, an Edo period house with a fascinating history.

To many people, including tourists and even local residents, Tokyo evokes images of futuristic architecture, bright neon lights and swarms of people navigating their way through narrow streets. Tokyo has always been a popular tourist destination that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering something unique for everyone, but a large portion of Tokyo remains relatively unknown to many visitors. Japan is especially unique because of its four distinctive seasons, as the beauty of the landscapes changes from season to season. While these changes can be enjoyed in central Tokyo, they are particularly beautiful once you step out into the suburbs of Tokyo.