5 unexpected things you absolutely have to do in Tokyo

Traveling to Tokyo is synonymous with traveling to Japan. It is one of a select group of cities that not only help define its own country, but it’s also helped define the world. Tokyo is a center of worldwide art, culture and more.

But it is also a massive place that’s literally overflowing with experiences. Some are extremely obvious, which doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take advantage of them. But others might not occur to you and are more than worth checking out.

Monzen-Nakacho

If you’re looking for that classic Tokyo vibe, Monzen-Nakacho is the place to go. There are a variety of traditional shops selling a variety of interesting foods and more. It’s also fun to hang out there in the evenings, getting your eat and drink on.

Located right in the neighborhood are two impressive sights, the Fukagawa Fududo temple, and the Tomioka Hachiman Shrine. Plus, Mon-Nak is on the way to the nearby Museum of Contemporary Art. It’s a great way to start your Tokyo trip.

Izakaya Alleys

The thing about Tokyo is that the options for eating and drinking are overwhelming on a level few can anticipate. There are a lot of places to go, and an incredible array of experiences. But an Izakaya Alley can give visitors the chance to explore.

Izakaya Alleys are filled with small restaurants and bars, each offering range of options to choose from. The food is usually great and cheap, making it easy to enjoy a variety of spots. It’s a fun way to spend a Tokyo evening.

Go to a Tokyo sumo stable

Anyone going to Tokyo needs to take in Sumo. This form of full-contact wrestling is essentially the national sport of Japan. It’s also the only country where it’s practiced competitively, making the experience of seeing it there unique.

Going to a match is one thing but there are more options. There are seemingly endless Sumo stables all across Tokyo. Some of them have open public viewing for their morning practice sessions. It’s amazing to watch.

MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM: teamLab Borderless

The name is long but the museum is epic. And it is unlike any other art museum you have seen before. teamLab Borderless is devoted to presenting one of a kind multi-sensual experiences that push any number of boundaries.

But if you do plan on going, make sure you buy your tickets online. Tickets are not sold on-site so be prepared in advance of heading out. That one has been known to catch people who aren’t paying attention to the first page of their website.

Ghibli Museum

On the other end of the museum spectrum is the Ghibli Museum. Devoted to the work of Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli, it is a very special experience, particularly for his fans. His films are extremely poignant and unique, as is this museum.

It has a variety of rooms, each highlighting different aspects of Miyazaki’s style and his films. But there are also special exhibits that are on for a limited time. The space is calming and welcoming, much like the movies that inspired it.