top of page

inspo & info
Search


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


Shin-Okubo Korea Town: vibrant, energetic, spicy!
Step into another world without leaving Tokyo. Shin-Okubo Korea Town is a whirlwind of K-pop, sizzling street food, and mega-trendy...

japansophy
Sep 24, 20254 min read


Kokkai-gijidō: Tokyo’s monumental seat of power
It may not boast the spiritual serenity of Tokyo’s temples or the eclectic charm of cat cafes, but the National Diet Building (国会議事堂...

japansophy
Sep 24, 20255 min read


The Imperial Palace: the heart of Tokyo
An island of open space and historical architecture in a city of dazzling high-rise buildings, the Imperial Palace is probably the first...

japansophy
Sep 24, 20254 min read


Gotokuji temple: more maneki-neko than you can wave your paw at!
Tucked away in the quiet, residential Setagaya Ward, Daikeizan Gotokuji temple is a whimsical escape from Tokyo's urban jungle. While it may lack the grand scale of some of the city's more famous shrines, its unique and charming atmosphere more than makes up for it. Jump to: How to get to Gotokuji temple Opening hours and best time to visit Admission What to see & do at Gotokuji temple Top tips for Gotokuji temple Facilities Nearby attractions For some reason, Gotokuji is kno

japansophy
Sep 23, 20255 min read


Best day trips from Tokyo (in under 4 hours by train)
Bored of Tokyo? Never! It would take a lifetime to experience everything this city – the biggest in the world, don't forget – has to offer. But sometimes a little change of scenery isn't a bad thing, amiright? And Tokyo is a fabulous base for exploring the greater Kanto area, from temples to waterfalls, mountains to volcanoes, nature and history: it's all waiting for you in just a few hours from the city. Japan's amazing rail network will whisk you away to Alpine towns, lakes

japansophy
Sep 22, 202514 min read


Best area to stay in Tokyo? Here are our top recommended spots and why we pass on some
8 out of 10 TikTok experts will try and convince you that your Japan trip will be ruined... RUINED, we tell you... if you don't stay in Shinjuku. It's of course a very subjective choice but we beg to differ. Here's why we score Shinjuku just 3/10

japansophy
Sep 18, 202515 min read


Tokyo Station: Grandiose European charm and a modern urban experience
An architectural incongruity amongst the modern skyscrapers of the Marunouchi district, Tokyo Station is the transportation heart of the city. The gateway to Japan's intricate railway network, Tokyo Station (東京駅) is an architectural masterpiece located in the heart of the city and blends historical grandeur with the sleek efficiency of a modern metropolis. Originally opened in 1914, the station's iconic red brick facade evokes a sense of European elegance, standing in stark c

japansophy
Aug 20, 20255 min read


Tsukiji Outer Market: a foodie nirvana with a long tradition
Fresh fish for sale at the Tsukiji fish market Tsukiji Outer Market (築地場外市場, Tsukiji Jōgai Shijō) is a vibrant district adjacent to the...

japansophy
Aug 20, 20254 min read


Niki no Kashi: The candy king of Ueno!
Niki no Kashi (二木の菓子) is a legendary confectionery store nestled within the bustling Ameya Yokocho market in Tokyo's Ueno district. For over 70 years, it has been a local and tourist favorite, famous for its vast and eclectic selection of snacks and sweets. This collection of shops (all within a few metres of each other) is a veritable paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth or a craving for Japanese treats. We never visit Ameyoko without dropping in here. The only problem is

japansophy
Aug 20, 20255 min read


Chidori-ga-fuchi moat: Tokyo romance and seasonal beauty
The old castle moat transforms into a wonderful sakura-viewing spot in spring. Chidori-ga-fuchi Moat (千鳥ヶ淵) is a peaceful waterway that...

japansophy
Aug 19, 20254 min read


Yasukuni Shrine: for quiet contemplation and historical reflection
Although not free of controversy, this shrine continues to be well-attended and hosts numerous popular festivals throughout the year....

japansophy
Aug 18, 20253 min read


Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: is this Tokyo's best free observation platform?
Most first-time visitors to Japan shell out thousands of yen to queue at Shibuya Sky or Tokyo Skytree, but the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (東京都庁舎, Tōkyō-to Chōsha) in the heart of Shinjuku offers some of the city's most spectacular - and entirely free - panoramic views. This isn't just a tourist platform; it's a bustling, working government office, but the twin observation decks are open to the public for 360-degree vistas of the sprawling metropolis.

japansophy
Aug 17, 20255 min read


DiverCity Tokyo Plaza: for shopping, entertainment, and Gundam thrills
The Rainbow Stairs at DiverCity in Odaiba, Tokyo, are infinitely instagrammable Get ready for an exciting and futuristic experience at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza (ダイバーシティ東京 プラザ), a sprawling shopping and entertainment complex located on Tokyo's man-made island of Odaiba. Day or night, it's a vibrant destination that blends high-end fashion with pop culture and technology, all set against a stunning waterfront backdrop. As you approach the entrance, you can't miss the colossal, lif

japansophy
Aug 17, 20254 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


Godzilla in Shinjuku: for kaiju thrills and a monstrous photo opportunity
The "life-sized" Godzilla statue peers over Kabukicho and shows off its impressive manicure! Get ready to have a monster of a time! Towering above Tokyo’s bustling Kabukicho district in Shinjuku is a jaw-dropping, life-sized Godzilla Head, an iconic and must-see landmark for fans and tourists alike. This quirky statue is a massive, intricately detailed recreation of Japan's most famous movie monster, forever immortalised in a spectacular yet unexpected location. As you emerge

japansophy
Aug 17, 20254 min read


What to do in Ginza, Tokyo: top 20 things that aren't luxury shopping!
Ginza has a reputation for being Tokyo's most expensive neighbourhood — and it isn't wrong. But there's more going on here than luxury boutiques. From free weekend street promenades and a 120-year-old stationery shop to single-act kabuki tickets and one of Tokyo's most beautiful gardens, here's what to do in Ginza for every type of traveller.

japansophy
Aug 16, 202512 min read


Odaiba: Tokyo's Futuristic Island Playground in the Bay!
Rainbow stairs at Odaiba's DiverCity: just one of the evening time attractions of this modern complex Get ready for a super-fun, futuristic escape to Odaiba (お台場), Tokyo's incredible man-made island in Tokyo Bay! Leave traditional Tokyo behind: this is a vibrant, modern district packed with impressive architecture, sprawling shopping malls, cool entertainment complexes, unique museums, and absolutely stunning waterfront views. From gazing at the iconic Rainbow Bridge to meeti

japansophy
Aug 16, 20256 min read


Zojoji Temple: Where Ancient Serenity Meets Modern Icons
Zojoji Temple has a unique backdrop and wonderfully peaceful gardens Prepare for a truly iconic Tokyo photo op, because Zojoji Temple (増上寺) offers a stunning blend of ancient serenity and modern marvels! This historically significant Buddhist temple, standing proudly in Shiba Park, is not only the main temple of the Jodo-shu sect but also boasts the magnificent Tokyo Tower as its dramatic backdrop. Imagine centuries-old temple architecture framed by a dazzling red-and-white t

japansophy
Aug 16, 20256 min read


Tokyo Tower: Tokyo's Classic Icon with Dazzling Views!
Tokyo Tower: Tokyo's iconic landmark is just a few metres taller than the Eiffel Tower Get ready to ascend a piece of Tokyo's heart and soul at Tokyo Tower (東京タワー)! With its instantly recognisable orange-and-white lattice design, this iconic broadcast tower is a nostalgic symbol of Tokyo's post-war resurgence and a beloved spot for truly classic panoramic views. Reminiscent of its Parisian cousin, the Eiffel Tower, Tokyo Tower offers a charmingly retro vibe combined with mode

japansophy
Aug 16, 20256 min read
bottom of page