FREE Tokyo Bucketlist - 100 Best Places to go in Tokyo

FREE Tokyo Bucketlist - 100 Best Places to go in Tokyo

Discover the hidden gems and must-see attractions in Tokyo with the ultimate guide to the best things to do in this vibrant city. Whether you're exploring traditional temples in Asakusa, taking in the surreal digital art at teamLab, or indulging in mouthwatering street food in Shinjuku, this guide has you covered. Immerse yourself in the unique blend of modern innovation and ancient tradition as you navigate through bustling neighborhoods, tranquil gardens, and dynamic cultural experiences. Let the captivating energy of Tokyo sweep you off your feet and create unforgettable memories in one of the world's most exciting destinations! NB. This item is currently a Work In Progress. This document will be updated periodically but will be kept as FREE! If you find something that you like, tips are always welcome and appreciated.
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Places I've been to that were absolutely the best!

I know it sounds cliche but the BEST experience I had in Tokyo was hands down Tokyo Disneyland. It was actually my first time going to Disneyland so maybe that's why lol. But even when compared to USJ, I think Tokyo Disneyland definitely takes the cake in terms of short wait times (5-45 minutes average) and the number of interactive things to do! The food is also better than other theme parks and I highly recommend going to Tomorrowland Terrace to get the Baymax Burger and the Fried Chicken Burger. Both taste delicious ASF! Overall a 10/10 experience to feel like a kid again and get that rush of nostalgia and play!

Tokyo Disneyland
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Tokyo Disneyland is DEFINITELY worth the visit. For just 6400 you have access to so many different areas, exhibits, merch and food! I highly recommend checking out these: 1. Pirates of the Caribbean (10 min themed ride) 2. Jungle Cruise: Wildlife Expeditions (5 min boat ride) 3. The Enchanted Tiki Room: Stitch Presents Aloha E Komo Mai (shows every 10 minutes, English Translators available) 4. Peter Pan's Flight (2 min themed ride) 5. Haunted Mansion (5 min themed ride) 6. Goofy's Paint 'n' Play House (1 min game) 7. Chip 'n Dale's Treehouse (5 min interaction) 8. Minnie's House (interactive photo op) 9. Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin (funny 5 min themed ride) 10. Stitch Encounter (funny 10 min show that interacts with the audience) 11. Monster's Inc. Ride & Go Seek (fun, interactive 5 min themed ride) I absolutely love that you can visit from 2pm and still get to do everything + still have energy to possibly see the fireworks in the evening at 8:30pm!
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Next is an ode to the Harry Potter Series. It's a very interactive self tour of the "studios" and sets where Harry Potter was filmed. Take part to pretend to be in a Quidditch match cheering, as a painting on the wall, appearing in fireplaces and flying away on brooms! I even cast some spells and mixed potions while I was there too. Be sure to take a quiz on which Hogwarts house you belong to and cosplay while you are there. Trust me, you will absolutely thank me in the end because this is truly a 1-time experience. You will spend approx 4hrs on the self tour and 1hr eating (optional.) Be sure to use the bathrooms when you see them as they are few and far in between. And be on the lookout for the SALE rack in their gift shop!

The Making of Harry Potter
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This is an ode to the Harry Potter Series. It's a very interactive self tour of the "studios" and sets where Harry Potter was filmed. Take part to pretend to be in a Quidditch match cheering, as a painting on the wall, appearing in fireplaces and flying away on brooms! I even cast some spells and mixed potions while I was there too. Be sure to take a quiz on which Hogwarts house you belong to and cosplay while you are there. Trust me, you will absolutely thank me in the end because this is truly a 1-time experience. You will spend approx 4hrs on the self tour and 1hr eating (optional.) Be sure to use the bathrooms when you see them as they are few and far in between. And be on the lookout for the SALE rack in their gift shop! Ticket price: 6400 yen Allowance for food: 3500 yen Allowance for merch: 10,000 yen (trust me everything is so detailed, you will find yourself wanting to buy A LOT! Even if it's just to save the packaging and have it on display. I spent 150 yen just on decorative paper bags at the checkout lol)
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Of course I also have to mention teamLab Planets. This is a truly unique experience. Go into it with zero expectations and the mindset of play to have the most fun. A lot of people get carried away with what they THINK this will be and don't enjoy it to the MAX. Remember, you can go through multiple times at no additional cost, so why not enjoy yourself the first time and then film on the second walkthrough. Really enjoy yourself and feel like a kid again!

teamLab Planets
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This is a truly unique experience. Go into it with zero expectations and the mindset of play to have the most fun. A lot of people get carried away with what they THINK this will be and don't enjoy it to the MAX. Remember, you can go through multiple times at no additional cost, so why not enjoy yourself the first time and then film on the second walkthrough. Really enjoy yourself and feel like a kid again! I highly recommend that you wear pants that reach around your knees or higher. There are mirrors on the floor, so avoid skirts. And some areas have water reaching up to your knees, so try to keep your clothes short and dry! Be prepared to take off your shoes from the very beginning too. With that in mind, try to reach here before 2pm when loads of people would have already gone before you (to avoid that toe jam!) ENTRY: 3800 yen
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Up next, the infamous POOP MUSEUM! Listen, it's a bit smaller than I anticipated but it still has lots of cute details, photo opportunities, ridiculous things, interactive games and funny merch! The whole experience is very enjoyable and equally absurd! And it's situated in DiverCity (mall) in Tokyo.

UNKO MUSEUM TOKYO
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This ridiculously cute museum is so Japanese coded. Like who else would make POOP so kawaii and instagrammable? There's lots of photo ops and I highly recommend that you come with a group of 3+ people for maximum fun and to make sure everyone gets the pictures they want! Ticket price: 2000 yen
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We quickly realised that the mall that we were in -- DiverCity Tokyo -- had a few gems.

Here are some highlights:

Right next door to the Poop Museum is the Hello Kitty Cafe and Shop! First, browse their cute merch that has something for everyone whether you are a Helly Kitty Girl or love love love Cinnamoroll. Their prices are a bit high but the quality of goods is also good and they have a variety of branded items for all budgets! Then, pop over to the Cafe to enjoy themed donuts and drinks! I really enjoyed the White Chocolate, and Strawberry donuts.

Hello Kitty Japan
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This store has very cute merch for Hello Kitty, Cinamoroll, Kuromi and more! Some of the stuffies go up to 30,000 so be mindful and check the price tag of each item. They also have lots of branded everyday items, including hand lotions (with the popular characters!) for 800 yen each and Cinnamoroll suitcases for around 17,000 yen. The cafe is also really wonderful and they have some delicious donuts for around 500 yen!
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A few floors down, head over to this Japanese-themed department store where you can get a variety of cheap snacks, toys and souvenirs!

Kirakira Donki DiverCity Tokyo Plaza
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This shop is a small Don Quijote that has a huge variety of snacks, toys, and souvenirs. Try something new, you never know what you will find for just under 500 yen!
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There's also the LEGO store which features many pieces that are exclusive to Japan. They have a lot of complex displays including well-known shrines and temples of various prefectures in Japan.

LEGO Store Tokyo
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And of course, before you leave the DiverCity area, you MUST see the huge Gundam Statue!

The Life-Sized UNICORN GUNDAM Statue
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This huge statue is a landmark in Tokyo. It's MASSIVE and makes for a cute instagrammable moment. Best to see it in the night when it's lit up for a really good effect.
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They also have an amazing Gyukatsu shop here -- where you are served deep fried beef cutlets and can cook them yourself. I got the Premium Wagyu set and it was absolutely wonderful! The meat melts straight into your mouth and I'll definitely be on the lookout for other branches of this chain restaurant around Japan!

Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu - DiverCity Tokyo Plaza
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This is an AMAZING Gyukatsu shop -- where you are served deep fried beef cutlets and can cook them yourself. I got the Premium Wagyu set for 5000 and it was absolutely wonderful! The meat melts straight into your mouth and I'll definitely be on the lookout for other branches of this chain restaurant around Japan! NB. This is a chain restaurant and can be found in a few cities in Japan.
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I have also visited these places but at different locations outside of Tokyo. Going on the understanding that franchises maintain a certain standard and flavor, I'm giving my review based on my personal experience.

First, the Lindt Chocolate Cafe is known for offering a luxurious and indulgent chocolate experience to its customers. It provides a wide range of premium Lindt chocolates and desserts that are meticulously crafted with high-quality ingredients. The cafe often creates unique and innovative chocolate creations that are exclusive to their locations in Japan.

Lindt Chocolate Cafe Shibuya
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They have TONS of treats to explore and you can mix and match your own set to your taste preferences! Be sure to check their seasonal menus and try out their new drinks too. My favorite part of this experience is going in and picking out your own chocolates to put in a bag, then paying by the pound. You have the opportunity to sample all sorts of flavors and then buy a whole bag of your favorite flavors on your 2nd trip! Minimum spend - 1000 yen
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You can also step into this 2D cafe where even the food and beverage look like they're drawn out of a cartoon. Though the desserts were a bit sweet for my liking (and I have a major sweet tooth!!) -- this was still a great stop to make for a unique experience.

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Be sure to try this Honey Toast that's drizzled with honey and served warm with vanilla ice cream inside! Be sure to share with friends because it's really big!

Honey Toast Cafe Akihabara
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This cafe is known for their infamous Honey Toast. It has such a wonderfully sweet flavor. It is served warm and drizzled with honey. But be sure to eat it a little quickly because it's stuffed with ice cream! It's a lot to eat by yourself so make sure to share with your friends! Expect to spend: 1500 yen
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There's also a really unique cream puff stand that has seasonal flavours and they're soooo good! Be on the lookout for the strawberry ones. But if not, the regular puffs are still absolutely divine! Not too sweet and the textures blend well. At just 250 each, it's easy to spend 1000 yen here!

Beard Papa
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Enjoy these cream puffs that are not too sweet and can be bought at just 250 yen each!
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If you're in the mood for dinner, you can check out this izakaya that features Japanese skewers 

Torikizoku Shinjuku Minamiguchi
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This is a very spacious izakaya that offers mega beer for 350 yen! Most dishes are also within this price range and is an excellent place to eat out. I highly recommend: 1. Deep fried mochi cheese 2. Stuffed green peppers (be EASY on the mustard!) 3. Pork skewers 4. Beef skewers 5. Chicken skin 6. Chicken namban Be sure to look out for their seasonal menus! Average Spend: 2500 yen per person NB: This is a chain restaurant and can be found in many cities across Tokyo and Japan under the name "Torikizoku"
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You can even cook the meat yourself at this small restaurant designed for solo travellers and couples

Yakiniku LIKE Ueno
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Don't be intimidated by the raw meat -- this restaurant allows you to have the experience of grilling your own meat on an open flame! This is by far the best yakiniku that I've had. They're very cheap but worth every penny. Expect to spend around 2000 yen here as you grill your own meat to your liking. Be sure to add their special flakes as a rice topping to give a nice savory flavour to the dish. Be sure to use the tablet to order and get your utencils from the draw where you are seated. This restaurant is designed for solo eaters but they can accommodate up to 4 people at a table (depending on the restaurant.) I highly recommend getting the "mixed karubi" in a medium or large size. NB: This is a chain restaurant and can be found in many cities across Tokyo and Japan
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Or try steak at this spot. It's very tender and well paired with wine!

Red Rock Harajuku
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This restaurant has some of the best steak and beef bowls. The meat is tender and juicy with just the right amount of seasoning. The sauce is really delicious too and makes for a great pairing. Expect to spend around 2000 yen here. NB: This is a chain restaurant and can be found in cities across Tokyo and Japan
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These spots are still on my Bucket List!

teamLab Borderless: MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM
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Separate and apart from teamLabs Planets is this interactive digital art museum that is also run by teamLabs! It's been featured ALL over Instagram and has been on my bucket list for YEARS! Be sure to get your tickets online and in advance. It's always been booked up every time I want to go, so I really have to plan for the next trip! Admission: 4200 yen
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Tokyo DisneySea
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This part of the Disney Resort is dedicated to more adult rides. This large park has 7 distinct themed ports, equipped with rides, rollercoasters, shows, cute merch and yummy food! Admission: 9400 yen
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HAUTE COUTURE・CAFE
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This is a small and quaint afternoon tea place featuring many seasonal fruit desserts. They decorate their shop with flowers based on what fruit they have used that season which gives it a refined yet cute vibe. The staff is also very friendly and polite, willing to help you take pictures as needed! Expected spend: 5000 yen
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Chicago Pizza & Volcano Pasta Meat &Cheese Forne
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The main reason I want to go to this restaurant is to try their Rare Salmon Katsu Volcano Pasta! I've seen it on Instagram and it looks absolutely DELICIOUS! All the cheese is so melty and the flavor combination seems to work well. Expect to spend around 4000 here.
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PEANUTS Cafe SNOOPY MUSEUM TOKYO
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The Snoopy Cafe is inspired by the iconic Peanuts comic strip. The cafe features iconic Snoopy characters in its decor, menu items and merch, creating a fun and nostalgic experience for everyone. To me, these menu items look great: 1. Fluffy no Pancakey 2. Seasonal Pancakes 3. Rarf Rarf Pancakes 4. Salmon & Tuna Avocado Rice Bowl 5. Drive Me Crazy Ice Plate 6. Picnic Basket and Plate 7. Shrimp and Avocado Salad 8. Lucy and Charlie Brown Football Sandwich 9. Their Variety of cute hot coffee drinks
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Snoopy Museum Tokyo
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This museum is renowned for its many photo opportunities and cute merch! Definitely check it our if you're a Snoopy fan! Admission: 1980 yen Merch allowance: 5000 yen
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Machida Squirrel Garden
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Hundreds of squirrels live in this whimsical, colorful garden that also has guinea pigs and rabbits. Each squirrel has its own name and lives in a colorful house. This place is also managed by loving adults in the community and receive a lot of support from the neighborhood. They have ethical practices and this really looks like a wonderful experience. Admission: 500 yen
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RURU KAMAKURA
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OK so this isn't technically in Tokyo but it's close enough and worth the visit. Hear me out! This unique cafe features a bed of sand covered in water as your tabletop! This cafe has been featured on Instagram many times and is very cute. As for the menu, I personally don't like matcha (which is their specialty), so I'd lean towards these items: 1. Cream cheese with raspberry sauce (yokan terrine) 2. Passionfruitsade 3. Hydrangea terrine with blueberry cream(may be seasonal) 4. Hydrangea soda (may be seasonal)
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Yomiuri Land
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Yomiuri Land is an amusement park that offers various attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and a Ferris wheel. Yomiuri Land also features a winter illumination event called "Jewellumination," where the park is beautifully lit up with millions of LED lights. Visitors can enjoy ice skating, shopping, and various seasonal foods during this event. The park has been a popular destination for families and thrill-seekers alike for decades, offering a range of entertainment options for people of all ages. It provides a fun escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo city life, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy a day filled with excitement and adventure. Admission: 5800 yen
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Jindai Botanical Gardens
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Explore this beautiful Botanical Garden that is the most popular in Tokyo. They have seasonal bloooms so make sure to check their website for more information for the best pictures. Admission: 500 yen.
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Chikurin Park
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Chikurin Park is a beautiful park located in the Setagaya ward of Tokyo. The park is known for its lush greenery and bamboo groves, which give it a serene and peaceful atmosphere. This is also an alternative to Kyoto's infamous Arashiyama Bamboo Park. Chikurin Park offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and immerse themselves in nature. The park is a popular spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying the beauty of the changing seasons. Visitors can also explore the park's walking trails, ponds, and gardens. One of the main attractions of Chikurin Park is its bamboo grove, which is an impressive sight to behold. The tall bamboo stalks sway gently in the wind, creating a mesmerizing and calming effect. Walking through the bamboo grove is a unique experience that can transport visitors to a tranquil and meditative state.
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Inokashira Park
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This city park features a pond with boating faciitires, a zoo, a trail, and access to the Ghibli Museum. Park Entry: FREE. Swan Pedal Boat Rental - 700 yen for 30 minutes. Hours: 10am-5:50pm
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DUMBO Doughnuts and Coffee 自由が丘店
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This donut shop is known for their delicious big ass donuts. From their menu, these look really good to me: 1. Marshmallow Chocolate 2. Tiramisu 3. Cheesecake 4. Plain Glazed 5. Double Cream
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Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory
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This bakery features cute little Totoro cream puffs, perfect for any Ghibli fan!
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Ghibli Museum
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This whimsical museum is dedicated to the famed animation studio and features a play area, theater, and rooftop garden. It's perfect for any Ghibli lover! Admission: 1000 yen
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Chiku Chiku Cafe
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This is an adorable hedgehog cafe where you can interact, play, pet and feed some cute little hedgehogs! Admission: 1300 yen for 30 minutes
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mipig cafe Meguro
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Pet some adorable micro pigs in this pig-themed cafe that resembles a quaint yet comfy home. The pigs are also really cute (I've been to the one in Osaka) -- it's truly worth the money. Be sure to leave on time though. If you're even one minute over the time, they will charge you for the full time. Admission: 1100 for 30 minutes NB: This cafe can be found throughout many cities in Japan. However, each one is unique and has their own decor and theme, making this experience highly worth the multiple visits.
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mipig cafe - Harajuku
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Pet some adorable micro pigs in this pig-themed cafe that resembles a whimsical and fun fairy forest! The pigs are also really cute (I've been to the one in Osaka) -- it's truly worth the money. Be sure to leave on time though. If you're even one minute over the time, they will charge you for the full time. Admission: 1100 for 30 minutes NB: This cafe can be found throughout many cities in Japan. However, each one is unique and has their own decor and theme, making this experience highly worth the multiple visits.
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mipig cafe Harajuku Takeshita Street
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Pet some adorable micro pigs in this pig-themed cafe that resembles something straight out of a super cutesy pixellated world!! The pigs are also really cute (I've been to the one in Osaka) -- it's truly worth the money. Be sure to leave on time though. If you're even one minute over the time, they will charge you for the full time. Admission: 1650 for 30 minutes NB: This cafe can be found throughout many cities in Japan. However, each one is unique and has their own decor and theme, making this experience highly worth the multiple visits.
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mipig cafe - Ikebukuro
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Pet some adorable micro pigs in this pig-themed cafe that resembles something straight out of a kawaii Minecraft / Super Mario / Lego game! The pigs are also really cute (I've been to the one in Osaka) -- it's truly worth the money. Be sure to leave on time though. If you're even one minute over the time, they will charge you for the full time. Admission: 1100 for 30 minutes NB: This cafe can be found throughout many cities in Japan. However, each one is unique and has their own decor and theme, making this experience highly worth the multiple visits.
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Harajuku Kawaii Land Kyun Kyun Animal Petting
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Here you can pet chinchillas, hamsters, hedgehogs and guinea pigs! Admission: 2300 yen for unlimited time!
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Ninja Experience Cafe Harajuku
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Dress up as a ninja at this cafe and get training with katanas and ninja stars! They also have really cute themed food. Everything is instagrammable and it has been hailed as a wonderful experience with the instructors being very kind and able to host English speakers. Expected spend: 5000 yen
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YEBISU BREWERY TOKYO
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Sign up for a tour of this brewery and enjoy free samples along the way! Admission: FREE
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Cute Cube Harajuku
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This is a specialty mini-mall featuring cute fashion, yummy food, unique gifts and souvenirs and they also have a dessert cafe!
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Cat Cafe MOFF CUTE CUBE Harajuku
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Enjoy this peaceful cat cafe that features cafe latte art! Pet and cuddle with these cats, all with their own unique personality and names! Admission: 900 yen for 30 minutes
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Sanrio Cute Cube Harajuku
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This store features merch from many lovable Sanrio characters including Hello Kitty, Kuromi, and Cinnamoroll!
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Samoyed Lounge moffu / サモエドカフェ原宿
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Pet some adorable Samoyed dogs in this quaint space. Admission: 3905 yen per hour
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QOO
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Thrift some brand name vintage goods at this shop!
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Godzilla Head
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Take a cute photo with this iconic landmark in Tokyo! These are some of the best vantage points: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku offers a close-up view from its Godzilla Room or the outdoor terrace on the 8th floor. For a wider perspective, head to the Shinjuku Toho Building, where the Godzilla head looms over Toho Cinemas. Both locations provide great angles to capture the iconic Godzilla head in all its glory against the Tokyo skyline. Visiting during the day offers a different vibe from the illuminated night view, allowing you to choose the perfect time for your photoshoot. These vantage points in Tokyo truly bring the Godzilla experience to life for any fan or photographer.
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Nezu Museum
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See beautiful art at the Nezu Museum This is a beautiful art museum that also has a peaceful outdoor garden. Many visitors are in awe of these gardens and they contend to be the best in Japan. ENTRY: 1300 yen
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Footbath Skydeck
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Enjoy this relaxing footbath as you watch the planes fly away at Haneda Airport. Acess to this footbath is FREE.
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Keeping it traditional, here are some temples and shrines

Nogi-jinja Shrine
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This shrine is a great dub for Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, which in my opinion is SUPER overcrowded. Have a better experience here! Just past the entrance is a beautiful bridge of vermillion torii gates, for the perfect, cultural photo opportunity. Entry: FREE
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Gōtokuji Temple
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Gotokuji Temple in Tokyo is known for its numerous beckoning cat figurines, called "maneki-neko," believed to bring good luck and prosperity. Visitors can see hundreds of these cat statues adorning the temple grounds, creating a unique and charming atmosphere. The temple also has a peaceful garden and historical buildings that provide a serene escape from the bustling city. Gotokuji Temple is a popular destination for those seeking to experience traditional Japanese culture and to seek blessings for good fortune in their lives.
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Marishiten Tokudaiji Temple
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This is a vibrant Buddhist temple dedicated to the goddess of luck.
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Asakusa Shrine
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A vibrant, wooden shrine with several pagodas. Entry: FREE
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Hanazono Inari Shrine
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This shrine is beautiful and also has vermillion tori gates, letting this be another option to swap out the overcrowded Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto.
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Here are some really cool hidden spots!

No Room For Squares ノールームフォースクエアーズ
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This is a hidden bar that is tucked right behind a Coca Cola vending machine as its door. It's a lovely speakeasy with Jazz music in the background. They have no set menu -- instead, have a chat with the bartender, let them know what you like, and they will whip up something nice for you. Expected spend: 5000 yen
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JANAI COFFEE
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This is another secret bar in Japan. It is hidden behind a "coffee shop". To gain access, simply visit their website, and solve a mystery! They also have a wide variety of cocktails to choose from! The ones that stood out to me were: 1. Mystic Love 2. Mathilda 3. Zombie Blues 4. Mr. Lollipop Beware, you can only enter if you have a special reservation. If you just turn up and try to walk in, the staff will insist that it’s just a coffee shop and will not let you enter. As mentioned, to get a reservation, you will need to solve a mystery on their website. Good luck!
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ORCHARD GINZA
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There is no fixed menu. You simply pick a fruit, an alcohol base, and trust that the bartenders will mix you something absolutely amazing! The best thing about this spot? According to one of the reviews: "Every cocktail is served with what you can only call an unimaginable beverage holder. If you're in for a night of great surprises, even just for one cocktail, this is the place. It's small, cozy and perfect. I love this place."
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Forest Library
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If you wanna escape the hustle and bustle of the city, come to this hidden cafe. As you open the door to this spot, you’ll see a bookshelf. To get inside, press the intercom on the left side and someone will come and open the bookcase door. It’s a book-themed cafe so expect the ambiance to be quiet but friendly. They carry a wide variety of books, from classics like Harry Potter to interesting books you've never seen before. It may depend on the time of day, but it's generally not crowded and has a quiet atmosphere, so it's more suitable for people who want to talk occasionally with someone they feel comfortable with, over a book, rather than for people who want to chat a lot with friends. This makes it a great solo or small group activity. You can sit anywhere you like but there is a reasonable 560 yen charge to sit on the sofas. Cost: 1100 yen per hour
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A10
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This is a luxury bar hidden behind some unassuming green lockers in Ebisu. Step into a sophisticated haven inspired by the charm of 1920s New York speakeasies. A10 boasts a vast collection of vintage vinyl records spanning jazz to R&B. Indulge in innovative creations like the Tropic Espresso Martini or the flavorful Pimento Batida. Cover charge: 1100 Average drink price: 1500
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LOST
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This quirky bar is hidden behind a Capsule Toy Machine. It’s also run by famous Youtubers based in Japan, Chris Broad (Abroad in Japan) and Sharla (Sharla in Japan). It’s casual and allows a space for tourists and locals to make connections. Enjoy reading Chris’ wall full of famous quotes and buy some of Sharla’s artworks. They also have a wide variety of drinks including 80s-inspired mixes and original creations. Expect to spend: 3000 yen
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And I LOVE trying new foods, so here's a bunch!

atelier 森本 XEX
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The food at this place seems to be absolutely mindblowing! This is a Michelin-star restaurant and it's high quality standards have earned it a 4.5 rating. Expect to spend 10,000 yen for this luxurious experience!
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Ark Lounge Shinjuku
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This restaurant features Chicago-style pizzas and Italian desserts in a chic space with private rooms and seats at a central bar. Based on the menu, I'd personally go for: 1. Chicago style pizza 2. Rare Beef Cutlet Volcano Pasta 3. Smoked Salmon Carpaccio 4. Rare Cheesecake
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Flipper's Shibuya
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They serve the infamous fluffy Japanese pancakes that you've seen all over Instagram. From the menu, I'd personally try: 1. Guerende Salt Caramel and Butter Pancakes 2. Apple Cinnamon Pancakes 3. Strawberry Pancakes
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DOLCE TACUBO
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I absolutely want to visit this spot to try their Cream Puffs! They offer outdoor dining along with some really nice treats.
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GARDEN HOUSE CRAFTS
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This bakery has both sweet and savory options. Based on their menu, I'd go for: 1. Sakura Shrimp Tartine 2. Avocado and Lime Tartine 3. Any of their delicious bakery items
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Pompompurin Cafe
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This is a cute themed cafe celebrating Pompompurin, a renowned and loved Sanrio character! Based on the menu, I'd personally go for: 1. Dreamy Souffle Omurice 2. Pompompurin donuts 3. Twinkling Pompompurin Mango Parfait 4. Very Delicious Latte Expect to spend: 3000 yen
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Trick or Treat Horror Dining
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Imagine walking into a bar that looks like a spooky movie set, with creepy decorations like coffins, cobweb-covered chandeliers, Jack Skellington pillows, and a statue of Linda Blair. The atmosphere is so eerie that it even feels like Tim Burton could show up any minute. But here's the catch: if you only speak English, you might feel a bit lost because the only language they speak here is Japanese. Everything is so beautifully themed though, it's worth the trouble to use Google Translate to try and communicate at this restaurant. Expect to spend: 3500 yen
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Science Bar INCUBATOR
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This is a wild concept for a bar but it works. They mix some really amazing theme drinks in the coolest way. And they have a few food items as well. Expect to spend: 2000 yen
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CAFE REISSUE
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This cafe is known for its amazingly detailed latte art! Pay just 100 yen extra for 3D art! The baristas here are truly artists. Expect to spend around 2000 yen here.
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Sushiya no Nohachi すし屋の野八
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This sushi restaurant is known for their one grain of rice sushi, which is exactly what it sounds like: very tiny sushi. It's a wonderful gimmick but don't be fooled, the sushi here is said to taste really good. You can get eight types of tiny sushi for free, as long as you purchase a regular-sized sushi course. But if you come here, you should be excited to get the sushi course. It is exceptional. Expect to spend around: 7000 yen
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Shogun Burger Shinjuku
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The Shogun Burger in Tokyo is special because it offers a unique fusion of Japanese and Western flavors. It typically features high-quality Japanese beef, teriyaki sauce, wasabi mayonnaise, and other traditional ingredients in a Western-style burger. This blend of flavors creates a harmonious and delicious experience that appeals to both locals and visitors seeking a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine with a modern twist. I'd most likely want to get the Chilli Meat Sauce Cheeseburger or the Avocado Cheeseburger. Expect to spend: 3000 yen
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焼肉割烹 ノ音 【WAGYU STEAK COUNTER】
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The experience here is incredible. Experience wine and sake paired with the best dishes. This 2.5 hour course meal is truly unique and must be done if possible! Expect to spend: 10,000 yen
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GYOPAO Gyoza Roppongi
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This restaurant specializes in gyoza. Their dumpling soup is also very good. Expect to spend: 2000 yen
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Salmon Noodle 3.0
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This is a chic ramen restaurant serving French-Japanese fusion dishes. I definitely want to try the Salmon Noodle 3.0, the dish that the restaurant is named after, and it only costs 940 yen!
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Sōsakumen Kōbō Nakiryū
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This is a Michelin-star Ramen Restaurant. There is usually a long line but if you're lucky enough you may be able to catch them on an uncrowded day. The entire menu is in Japanese so be ready to use Google Lens to translate everything. I personally would go for number 10 - sour and spicy noodles. Expect to spend; 1500 yen
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Itamae Sushi Ginza Corridor
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This is a popular sushi restaurant for its high quality ingredients, freshness, and friendly staff. I'd recommend going for: 1. Tuna combo 2. Sushi combo 3. Tempura 4. Eel Expect to spend: 4000 yen
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Viennoiserie JEAN FRANÇOIS
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This bakery has a lot of amazing treats for a low price, many items costing less than 300 yen each! The melon bread is well baked. The crème brûlée bread is also really delicious and should not be missed. Expect to spend: 1000 yen
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Tempura Abe Honten
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This is a nice casual spot that has great tempura. It fills up fast so try to go a bit early. They have an English menu and the staff is really friendly and accommodating!
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GODIVA Bakery "GODIPAN" Yurakucho Main Store
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Getting a ticket 2 days in advance on their Line app is critical, otherwise you will have to get a timed ticket to enter when you visit. Be sure to check their seasonal items! The Godiva bread are filled with famous Godiva chocolate. The Korone Cream Roll also looks really good with a chocolate bar and chocolate cream in it!
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Tapas Molecular Bar
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Tapas Molecular Bar is not your average place to eat. It offers a fancy dining experience where the chef prepares amazing food right in front of you. It's a unique culinary adventure with the chef sharing personal stories that make you feel like you're dreaming and exploring new flavors. Expect to spend: 10,000 yen
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Ninja Tokyo
@travelwithgxbby
Artfully presented Japanese dishes, plus magic tricks, in a space replicating a ninja hideout. As per one review via Google Maps: "This was an amazingly prepared and presented dinner course. Absolutely one of the biggest highlights of our trip to Tokyo. They do a great job of creating a magical atmosphere. The wine list was impressive. The flavor and quality of the food was worth the price especially when you factor in how visually pleasing everything is presented. Will be coming back next time we’re in Tokyo."
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DAWN | Avatar Robot Cafe ver.β
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The Dawn Avatar Robot Cafe in Tokyo is special because it offers a unique dining experience where customers are served by robots. Fun fact: The robot servers at the Dawn Avatar Robot Cafe are operated by individuals with disabilities who remotely control the robots from their homes, providing them with employment opportunities and a chance to engage with customers in a truly innovative way.
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Gyukatsu Motomura Ueno
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Tonkatsu Maisen Aoyama
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Aoyama Flower Market Green House
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Haneda Sky Brewing
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Tonkatsu Aoki
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LONG! LONGER!! LONGEST!!!
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This shop sells long and whimsical potato snacks that have been specially cut to form long 1-ft spirals on a stick!
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Katsukura Shinjuku Takashimaya
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THE STRINGS Omotesando
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Rainbow Hotdog
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World Breakfast Allday
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Butagumi Shokudo
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SUNNY DAYS pudding cafe
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Frites Bruges
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Asakusa kaminarimon Kuroge
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Sukunahikona
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hey, I'm Gabby, your dedicated Travel Advisor in Japan! With a knack for unraveling hidden gems and unbeatable deals, I curate unique experiences tailored to your preferences—be it adventurous or laid-back, budgeted or luxurious. As a true local, I blend insider knowledge with enthusiasm to craft unforgettable journeys just for you. Leave all the heavy lifting to me as you embrace the thrill of travel and uncover the magic of Japan, one unforgettable adventure at a time!
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