5 free things to do in vibrant, tranquil Tokyo
By Chehui Peh |
April 20, 2013, Saturday
|
Print Edition
Print Edition
ONE of the most popular destinations in Asia, Tokyo offers a vibrant atmosphere and unique attractions. It is unashamedly urban, but with a tinge of nostalgia; crowded, and yet unbelievably spacious at times. A city with an incredibly convenient network of train lines, Tokyo is easy to get around once you figure out the directions. Here are some of the easily accessible places where locals go to relax from busy working lives, without having to dig into their pockets.
Sangenchaya Carrot Tower
One stop from busy Shibuya is Sangenchaya, a quiet and yet bustling neighborhood with scores of cute boutique cafes and restaurants offering cheap local fare. Unknown to many, just above the subway station is the aptly-named Carrot Tower (its color scheme makes it resemble a giant carrot) where you can see views of Tokyo from the 26th floor conservatory. On a clear day, Mount Fuji and popular hot springs city Hakone can be seen in the distance. Bring cards and drinks to relax along with the high school students taking a break from their studies and admiring the view over an intense game of poker. Although the Tokyo Sky Tree is the place for a bird's eye view of Tokyo, Carrot Tower is also a great vantage point for people-watching, with the nearby cafe a popular tea spot. Arrive just before sunset for a stunning view of the sun setting over Tokyo and the city lighting up.
Shibuya Center Street
Shibuya is famous for the statue of the faithful dog Hachiko, and also Shibuya crossing. But past the crossing is one of Shibuya's most vibrant and busiest streets - Shibuya Center Street, a mass of people, food, fashion and noise. And the best part is - you find yourself fitting in right away. It doesn't matter if you speak Japanese or not, the lively but relaxed atmosphere down this brightly lit street is a perfect place to people-watch and converse (or maybe not) with drunken men in suits. For a glimpse of what Tokyo's youth and salary men do on a Friday night to relax, the center street is the perfect place to go. Window shop, smell the delicious aromas of food wafting out of restaurants and food kiosks, and join the rowdy crowds, some revellers knocking back their beers on the street. And it doesn't matter if you're broke - it's just fun to be there.
Naka-Meguro
One of the new hip spots of Tokyo, Naka-Meguro is where the rich and famous live and hang out. Celebrity sightings are common among the relatively peaceful surroundings.
Running through Naka-Meguro is the Meguro River, and a walk down its tree-lined banks captures the beautiful transience of the seasons: sakura falling into the river in spring, vibrant green leaves home to noisy cicadas in summer; the reds and golds of autumn leaves; snow-covered branches in the winter. Naka-Meguro is the perfect spot for a date. Just sit on a bench and watch the world go by - maybe including a celebrity or two.
Nippori
A stone's throw away from Ueno, Nippori is Tokyo's art district, where the traditional meets the modern. Instead of going uphill where the temples are, go downhill and head for the suddenly lively street lined by traditional Japanese wooden homes.
A perfect walk for any photography lover, check out the carefully preserved old houses in the area, and the inconspicuous streets that are home to some of the most fascinating local artists.
The aroma of tasty food from eateries will lure you throughout the walk, but it is the friendly shopkeepers and cute pets walking around that will win the most attention.
Tamagawa
A 15 minute train ride away from Shibuya, Tamagawa is a popular residential district, and one of the best places for sports and picnics. Along the Tamagawa River are large baseball and football pitches and areas where barbecues can be held (with permission). The best part however, are the grassy river banks. Lie on your back and contemplate the clouds, and you'll soon see why Japanese drama protagonists like to ponder life while staring at the sky. Bring a blanket and food and Tamagawa is guaranteed to be the perfect spot to enjoy your first Japanese picnic experience. Near residential blocks are cherry trees lined paths, perfect for a walk after a meal.
Sangenchaya Carrot Tower
One stop from busy Shibuya is Sangenchaya, a quiet and yet bustling neighborhood with scores of cute boutique cafes and restaurants offering cheap local fare. Unknown to many, just above the subway station is the aptly-named Carrot Tower (its color scheme makes it resemble a giant carrot) where you can see views of Tokyo from the 26th floor conservatory. On a clear day, Mount Fuji and popular hot springs city Hakone can be seen in the distance. Bring cards and drinks to relax along with the high school students taking a break from their studies and admiring the view over an intense game of poker. Although the Tokyo Sky Tree is the place for a bird's eye view of Tokyo, Carrot Tower is also a great vantage point for people-watching, with the nearby cafe a popular tea spot. Arrive just before sunset for a stunning view of the sun setting over Tokyo and the city lighting up.
Shibuya Center Street
Shibuya is famous for the statue of the faithful dog Hachiko, and also Shibuya crossing. But past the crossing is one of Shibuya's most vibrant and busiest streets - Shibuya Center Street, a mass of people, food, fashion and noise. And the best part is - you find yourself fitting in right away. It doesn't matter if you speak Japanese or not, the lively but relaxed atmosphere down this brightly lit street is a perfect place to people-watch and converse (or maybe not) with drunken men in suits. For a glimpse of what Tokyo's youth and salary men do on a Friday night to relax, the center street is the perfect place to go. Window shop, smell the delicious aromas of food wafting out of restaurants and food kiosks, and join the rowdy crowds, some revellers knocking back their beers on the street. And it doesn't matter if you're broke - it's just fun to be there.
Naka-Meguro
One of the new hip spots of Tokyo, Naka-Meguro is where the rich and famous live and hang out. Celebrity sightings are common among the relatively peaceful surroundings.
Running through Naka-Meguro is the Meguro River, and a walk down its tree-lined banks captures the beautiful transience of the seasons: sakura falling into the river in spring, vibrant green leaves home to noisy cicadas in summer; the reds and golds of autumn leaves; snow-covered branches in the winter. Naka-Meguro is the perfect spot for a date. Just sit on a bench and watch the world go by - maybe including a celebrity or two.
Nippori
A stone's throw away from Ueno, Nippori is Tokyo's art district, where the traditional meets the modern. Instead of going uphill where the temples are, go downhill and head for the suddenly lively street lined by traditional Japanese wooden homes.
A perfect walk for any photography lover, check out the carefully preserved old houses in the area, and the inconspicuous streets that are home to some of the most fascinating local artists.
The aroma of tasty food from eateries will lure you throughout the walk, but it is the friendly shopkeepers and cute pets walking around that will win the most attention.
Tamagawa
A 15 minute train ride away from Shibuya, Tamagawa is a popular residential district, and one of the best places for sports and picnics. Along the Tamagawa River are large baseball and football pitches and areas where barbecues can be held (with permission). The best part however, are the grassy river banks. Lie on your back and contemplate the clouds, and you'll soon see why Japanese drama protagonists like to ponder life while staring at the sky. Bring a blanket and food and Tamagawa is guaranteed to be the perfect spot to enjoy your first Japanese picnic experience. Near residential blocks are cherry trees lined paths, perfect for a walk after a meal.
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