inspo & info

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

Kobe Port Tower is back — and better than ever. After a major 2024 renovation, Japan's most recognisable red tower now has an open-air rooftop deck and a 360° rotating café. Here's everything you need to know before you visit, from tickets and opening times to the best time to go for those famous night views.

Meriken Park is Kobe's most famous waterfront spot - home to the iconic red Kobe Port Tower, the Maritime Museum, the Be Kobe sign and more. Here's everything you need to know before you visit.

Forget about Sky Tree, Shibuya Sky and even the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: Odaiba Beach and Odaiba Marine Park is where you'll get what we think are the best views of the city... and for free, too! If you haven't seen Rainbow Bridge and the Tokyo skyline from Odaiba Marine Park, you're absolutely missing out. Here's everything you need to know.

How dangerous is Kabukicho? Can I take my kids there? Should I Kabukicho is officially classified as an entertainment district, with bars, cinemas, restaurants... Kabukicho is also home to host and hostess clubs, love hotels, and establishments offering adult services — the industries that earn it the "red-light district" label. Here's our take on why you should visit Kabukicho but what to avoid while you're there.

That giant red Ferris wheel on top of a shopping mall in Osaka? That's Hep Five — one of Umeda's most recognisable landmarks. Whether you're tempted by the 106-metre views, the 100+ shops, or just want a fun photo stop, here's everything you need to know before you visit.

We find Hozenji Yokocho charming. It has elements of Golden Gai in Tokyo and of Pontocho in Kyoto but unmistakably Osaka at the same time and is one of the few historical streets that the city still has. The moss-covered Buddha statue is much-loved among locals and is certainly one of the more unusual you will see in Japan. Personally, I find it a little creepy but maybe I watched too much Dr Who as a kid.

Shibuya crossing in Tokyo is constantly buzzing with people: thousands cross here every time the lights change. The Shibuya Scramble Crossing (渋谷スクランブル交差点) is arguably the most famous intersection in the world, an iconic symbol of modern Tokyo's energy and dynamism. Located directly outside Shibuya Station, what makes this crossing so mesmerizing is the sheer number of pedestrians—up to 2,500 at a time—who pour into the intersection from all directions simultaneously when the