Top Free Sites to Visit in Tokyo, Japan
Admission-Free Attractions in Tokyo for Budget Travel
Aug 24, 2009
Tokyo, Japan, may have a reputation for being an expensive city to visit, but there are many must-see places to visit free of charge. It is possible to visit Tokyo on a minimal budget and still make the most of this fascinating city.
Ueno Park is Home to Museums, Wildlife, and Nature in Central Tokyo
Located in the Ueno district of Taito, Tokyo, Ueno Park is a sprawling green space with walkways, lush greenery, and a sizeable pond. Ueno Park was established in 1924 and is also home to three of Tokyo’s major museums: Tokyo National Museum, National Science Museum, and the National Museum of Western Art. While there is an entry fee for each of the museums, there are several exhibits outside the museums, including recreations of sculptor Rodin’s bronze works of art.
Visitors can stroll the grounds, taking in the view of the Ueno district of Tokyo, including the bustling Ueno Station, Ameyoko Market, and Shinobazo Pond, home to several species of waterfowl and the Bentendo Hall, a shrine dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten. As well, the popular Ueno Zoo is located within the park for a small admission fee. One of the park’s most popular features is the statue of Saigo Takamori, famously dubbed “The Last Samurai.” Here foreign visitors and Japanese tourists queue up to have their picture taken in front of this Edo warrior.
Tokyo Markets: Ameyoko and Tsukiji Fish Market
Tokyo is home to several markets, most notably the Ameyoko or “American” market, and the early-morning Tsukiji Fish Market. Located directly across from Ueno Station, under the JR rail line tracks stretching towards Okachimachi Station, the Ameyoko Market sprung up here during the post-war years as a black market for American goods such as candy and blue jeans. Still going strong today, the vendors of the Ameyoko Market sell items ranging from fresh fruits, fish, and vegetables, to sunglasses, underwear, and fashion items. Prepare to barter for goods here as it is more than acceptable to negotiate prices with sellers.
For early morning risers, a trip to the Tsukiji Fish Market is a must-see when visiting Tokyo. Located near Tsukijishijo Station and open from approximately 5am to 1pm daily (closed Sundays), it is best to show up as early as possible to catch the bustling blue fin tuna auction which ends by 8am. A visit to the fish market can be messy so closed-toe shoes are a must. Vendors and sellers welcome guests and photographs, as long as no flash is used and visitors do not get in the way of this working market.
Harajuku District: Fashion and Culture
No trip to Japan would be complete without people watching in Harajuku. Harajuku is one of the fashion shopping Mecca’s in Tokyo, and home to shops which sell elaborate costumes that are popular with teenagers. On Sundays, young people stake out a place in Yoyogi Park to see and be seen. Here these fashion-forward kids dress in gothic, rockabilly, or baby-doll style costumes and pose for pictures, dance to music, and perform.
Yoyogi Park was the site for the 1964 Olympics and the distinctive Olympic stadium is nearby. The park is also home to the Meiji Jingu Shrine, built to commemorate Emperor Meiji in 1920. Tokyo’s largest and most elaborate shrine, the shrine is set back among tress and entered through a winding wooded path. On weekends, Japanese weddings are often held here, and it is a popular place to celebrate on New Year’s Eve. In the springtime, the park is full of cherry blossom trees and picnickers.
SensojiTemple and Nakamise Shopping Arcade in Asakusa
Sensoji Temple or Asakusa Kannon is perhaps Tokyo’s largest Buddhist temple attracting both locals and foreigners alike. The main entrance to the temple is marked by the large Kaminarimon or “Thunder Gate” featuring enormous statues of Raijin and Fujin, the gods of thunder and wind. An oft-photographed giant paper lantern hangs from the gate’s archway, signifying the entrance to the Nakamise shopping arcade leading up to the main temple.
Ideal for souvenirs, the Nakamise shopping arcade stretches from the main entrance to the second gate, Hozomon, decorated with a large, traditional straw sandal. Past this gate lies the main temple or Kannon Hall and a five-storey pagoda rumored to house the remains of the Buddha.
The grounds of Sensoji also feature small ponds and gardens ideal for a tranquil escape from the crowds gathered around the incense burners at the foot of the temple.
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