Tokyo offers some of the most stunning views in all of Japan. Here are my top 5 personal favorites, some of which you likely haven’t heard of!
5. Imperial Palace Gardens – Chiyoda
People are often drawn to Tokyo’s Imperial Palace because of its reputation as a tourist destination. In truth, what really makes this site beautiful are the surrounding gardens and lakes around the palace.
Visiting the Imperial Palace makes for an amazing trip because of the stunning views you get along the way. It’s also completely free to enter the grounds and photos are permitted at every corner.
4. Meguro River – Meguro
The Meguro river is one of the hotspots for sakura (cherry blossom) viewing. However, even outside of spring you can enjoy the crystal-clear river view with its surrounding trees and city backdrop.
One of the most scenic walks I’ve done in Tokyo is the route from Meguro station to Nakameguro. The walk offers many different views of the river and at the end awaits the largest Starbucks in Japan with a rooftop seating area!
3. Tokyo Tower – Shiba-koen
The list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Tokyo Tower, the “Eiffel Tower” of Japan. This stunning structure extends to a height of 333 meters, making it the second-tallest structure in Japan after the Tokyo Skytree.
Located in Shiba-koen just outside the luxurious city of Roppongi, the Tokyo Tower can be seen from just about anywhere in the vicinity. At night, the tower lights up with bright golden lights, much like its French counterpart.
2. Rainbow Bridge – Odaiba
I know what you’re thinking, “what’s the Statue of Liberty doing in the middle of Tokyo?” In truth, the Statue of Liberty is not an American artifact but rather was gifted to the U.S. by France in honor of their alliance during the American Revolution.
In a similar manner, France gifted Japan with their own Statue of Liberty to celebrate its ties as nations. Located in Odaiba just outside of Aqua City, Japan’s version of the statue is significantly smaller than the original in New York City.
History lessons aside, Odaiba offers some beautiful seaside views, particularly with Lady Liberty herself standing tall against the backdrop of Rainbow Bridge. The naming of the bridge was not in vain, because it literally lights up with rainbow colors at night to offer a whole new vibe!
1. Toyama Park – Shin-Okubo
Located on the outskirts of Shinjuku is the small, lesser-known city of Shin-Okubo. Within this town is a park only familiar to locals and those who’ve been fortunate enough to stumble upon it.
Toyama Park is one of the most beautiful parks I’ve ever seen. Its natural beauty and peaceful vibe are second-to-none, offering some of the best autumn leaves viewing spots you’ll ever see.
Just a 10-minute walk from Shin-Okubo station, you’ll find a vibrant yet zen-like atmosphere at Toyama Park. The playground areas are filled with energetic children running around and playing baseball, while the quieter spots are usually empty or inhabited by elderly people enjoying the serenity.
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!