Tokyo is often regarded as “the place to be” in Japan, but with the sheer size of the prefecture, where in Tokyo should one ACTUALLY go?
Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Akihabara are often regarded as the “big 3” cities of Tokyo. Well, this article will steer away from those jam-packed cities and focus on some of the more “chill” neighborhoods of Japan’s capital. I hope this list will help you experience Tokyo on a deeper level and appreciate the unique vibes that each district offers.
1. Chiyoda
Home to the Tokyo Imperial Palace, Chiyoda is in many ways the heart of Tokyo, both in terms of traditional culture and modern business. A beautiful city abundant in tall, colorful trees as well as tall shiny office buildings and scenic moats that surround the neighborhood, it carries a peaceful yet prideful atmosphere, invoking feelings of tranquility as well as strength. In fact, Chiyoda is also home to the stunning flower gardens of Hibiya Park, just around the corner from the palace, and that alone makes it a cool neighborhood worth a visit!
2. Musashino & Mitaka
Located in western Tokyo are two neighboring suburbs, Musashino and Mitaka, which co-host the most beautiful park I’ve seen in the whole prefecture – Inokashira Park. In truth, this park is so magnificently beautiful and original in the atmospheric vibe that it acts as the sole reason I would urge you to visit these two suburbs. Not only is this park home to the breathtaking Inokashira Pond, but also adjacent to the Studio Ghibli Museum (Mitaka), which certainly makes it a cool district to check out!
3. Meguro
Meguro is another one of Tokyo’s cool neighborhoods that are “off-the-beaten-track,” as it were. The Meguro River, which runs all along the city, is an absolutely magical and enchanting sight during cherry blossom season, though that shouldn’t deter you from visiting at any point of the year. The truth is, Meguro is so much more than its famous river; it is a neighborhood with beautiful walking and cycling trails and also home to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, one of just six in the entire world!
4. Shin-Okubo
Known as Japan’s “Korea Town,” Shin-Okubo is a highly underrated city, having its spotlight outshone by its neighbor, the big Shinjuku. It also doesn’t help that most who visit Japan want to experience Japanese culture, not Korean, but sadly, this sentiment makes many people miss out on what is truly one of Tokyo’s coolest neighborhoods! Not only do you get countless delicious Korean street foods like cheese dogs, fried chicken, and tteokbokki here, but also beautiful scenic spots like Toyama Park that look absolutely stunning during the golden autumn season.
5. Asakusa
Last but not least is a city that very much deserves to be the phantom 4th member of the Tokyo big 3, and that’s the city of Asakusa. This traditional modern city showcases the pride of ancient Tokyo through its Sensoji Temple, as well as the modern architectural prowess side through Tokyo Tower. From the tranquil Sumida River to the vibrant Nakamise-dori Street, Asakusa is a district that can invoke all kinds of feelings and emotions. It all depends on where you decide to go!
To learn more about life in Japan, check out my book: The Japanese Pursuit of Perfection. This book features my most profound observations of Japanese culture and society as a foreign resident. Available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover. Grab your copy today!