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Shibuya Sky vs Tokyo Skytree: which one should you visit?
Both offer stunning views of Tokyo, both are accessible to tourists, and both appear on dozens of Tokyo bucket lists. But they're very different experiences - and for most visitors, one will suit your itinerary far better than the other.
After visiting both observation decks multiple times, we have a clear winner. Here's why.

japansophy
Jul 74 min read


3 days in Tokyo: the perfect Tokyo itinerary for first-timers
Three days in Tokyo, done right. This tried-and-tested 3-day Tokyo itinerary covers Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, Ueno, Asakusa, and Odaiba - with practical transport tips, ideas for arrival day, leaving day and rainy days, plus everything you need to book in advance. Built on 30 years of Tokyo travel, this is the itinerary we actually use.

japansophy
Jun 2612 min read


Visiting Sensoji temple: what to know before you go
Tokyo's most famous temple doesn't have to mean fighting through selfie sticks. Here's how to visit Senso-ji the right way - with tips on timing, what to see, and avoiding the mistakes most visitors make

japansophy
Jun 258 min read


10+ Best Observation Decks in Tokyo (many of them free!)
Tokyo has so many super observation decks - and some of the best ones are completely free. From the record-breaking height of Tokyo Skytree to the budget-friendly Metropolitan Government Building, here's our guide to the 10 best observation decks in Tokyo plus a few extra tips for getting those views in

japansophy
Jun 198 min read


Tokyo Skytree vs Tokyo Tower: which one should you visit?
With three decades of visiting Tokyo as tourists, we're pretty clued in on our viewing platforms, and our honest answer, for different reasons, is that we don't put either on our itineraries. We'll explain why, but just in case you're set on doing one or the other, let's compare the two.

japansophy
May 177 min read


Best Museums in Tokyo 2026: Here are the ones you can't miss
If you're visiting Tokyo for the first time and are maybe on a tight schedule, you might be tempted to cram in all of the highlights you see on social media. But what you don't see (much) on social media are Tokyo's amazing, world-class museums. To be honest, it's pretty difficult narrowing down Tokyo's museum's to a must-see few, but here are some of what we think are outstanding museums you can't miss plus a few on the quirky side that you can boast to your friends about wh

japansophy
Mar 137 min read


Sumida River cruise: see Tokyo from the water for a completely new perspective
From the historic charm of Asakusa to the futuristic cityscape of Odaiba, a cruise down the Sumida River (Sumidagawa) is both a feast for the eyes and a welcome break for your weary feet. Contents Is a Sumida River cruise worth it? What boat should I choose for a Sumidagawa cruise? How much is a Tokyo river cruise? What can I see on a Tokyo river cruise? What special Sumidagawa cruises are there? Sumida River cruise FAQ The Hotaluna is one of the Suijobus company's three futu

japansophy
Sep 29, 20257 min read


Hoppy Street: for retro vibes and a taste of old-school Tokyo
The name says it all: Hoppy Street in Asakusa is famous for its casual, retro-style drinking establishments and eateries Step into a wonderfully retro and laid-back world on Hoppy Street (ホッピー通り, Hoppī Dōri), a charming alleyway in Asakusa that's a true hidden gem for foodies and those seeking an authentic, old-school Tokyo experience. You won't find too many fancy restaurants here. Instead, explore a wonderfully preserved slice of "Shitamachi" (old downtown) Tokyo, offering

japansophy
Aug 17, 20254 min read


Tokyo SkyTree: see Tokyo sparkle from its highest viewpoint!
Get ready to have your breath taken away and maybe your ears popped at Tokyo SkyTree observation deck (東京スカイツリー)! Not to be confused with Tokyo Tower, SkyTree is a colossal broadcast and observation tower that pierces the Tokyo skyline, standing as one of the tallest structures in the entire world and offering unparalleled, breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis, stretching all the way to Mount Fuji on a clear day. Disclosure: This post contains

japansophy
Aug 16, 20258 min read


Kappabashi Kitchen Street: Tokyo's Quirky Kitchen Kingdom!
Kappabashi Kitchen Street in Asakusa for everything you never knew you needed for your kitchen. Get ready to sharpen your appetite and...

japansophy
Aug 16, 20256 min read
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