Veer away from the guidebook, and the crowds.
Everyone knows the neon and crowds Tokyo is famous for, but this guide will take you to a different Tokyo entirely. We asked our staff for the Tokyo spots they actually visit: quiet parks for a morning walk, tiny bars you’d only find on a friend’s recommendation, and neighborhoods that feel like a different region altogether.
Use this as your map to a less touristy Tokyo: quick, practical tips and the spots locals would bring a friend to.
Rev up your Google Maps, and let’s wander!
1. Yoyogi Park Area
Filled with more greenery than you’d expect in the middle of a bustling city, the quiet, laid-back Yoyogi Park area is a haven for those looking for a quiet morning stroll. Just outside of the famous park itself are photogenic streets lined with cafes and standalone restaurants.
Getting there: Depending on what line you’re closest to, you can take the Odakyu Line to Yoyogi-Hachiman Station, or take the Subway Chiyoda Line to Yoyogi-koen Station. Then, just head outside of the station and wander!
Why locals love it: It’s a fresh breath of air compared to some of the more densely-packed areas in Tokyo, with lower buildings and less crowds. For those living in Tokyo, it’s a way cheaper trip than to the nearest forest or beach, so this is the spot of choice to relax and unwind!
Insider tip: The interestingly named CAMELBACK RICH VALLEY cafe came highly recommended from our staff! But part of the fun is wandering around to find your own favorite, so feel free to explore. Lots of smaller cafes now accept payments via card and smartphone, but it’s always a good idea to keep yen on hand just in case!
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/43BhTfhfz2RmZY4t8
2. Azabusan Zenpukuji Temple
One of the oldest temples in Tokyo, located just a quick walk away from Azabu-juban Station. For those looking for a convenient way to visit one of Japan’s stunning temples without tons of tourist attractions surrounding, this is the place to be.
Getting there: This temple offers something special for history and nature lovers alike. The third Shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu, donated the Main Hall to the temple. Inside the temple grounds is also the oldest tree in Tokyo. It’s a magnificent sight in any season!Take either the Subway Namboku or Oedo Lines to Azabu-juban Station. Take Exit 1, and it’s a quick 5-minute walk from there! The temple gates are open from 7 AM to 5 PM daily.
Why locals love it: This temple offers something special for history and nature lovers alike. The third Shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu, donated the Main Hall to the temple. Inside the temple grounds is also the oldest tree in Tokyo. It’s a magnificent sight in any season!
Insider tip: If you’d like to pray at the temple, here’s the correct way. First, bow at the main entrance gate of the temple. Then, cleanse your hands and mouth at the water well inside the entrance. Then, head up to the prayer spot and toss in a coin (5 yen if possible), ring the bell if there is one, and put your hands together to pray. Finish with another bow, and it’s as simple as that!
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/m5CiaLxovQUVJpiY8
3. ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM
Ginza’s ART AQUARIUM MUSEUM is a sight unlike any other. Dimly lit rooms stand in stark contrast with the bright aquarium sculptures they house in shapes you’d never expect, coming together in a celebration of Japanese flair and seasonal wonder.
Getting there: Take the Subway Hibiya or Ginza Lines to Ginza Station. Take Exit A11 and walk one minute to the Ginza Mitsukoshi shopping center. The aquarium is inside, on the 9th floor. Entrance is 2,700 yen for day-of tickets, or 2,500 yen if you purchase on their website in advance. The website is available in English.
Why locals love it: There’s no other aquarium or art display quite like this in Japan, and that, paired with its central location, makes it a no-brainer for locals looking for a cool weekend experience! The exhibits change with the seasons, so no matter how many times you go, you’re guaranteed to see new sights.
Insider tip: If you’re looking for self-portraits for your Japan photo reel, there are photo spots throughout the aquarium with lighting arranged specifically for great shots!
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CLGy6pitsugx6s8H6
4. Sugoi Niboshi Ramen Nagi
Housed atop an unassuming wooden staircase in the middle of Shinjuku’s famous Golden Gai district, this ramen shop is well known and loved by locals from all walks of life, from office workers on their lunch breaks to party people winding down after a night out.
Getting there: The shop is closest to Shinjuku-Sanchome Station, accessible from the Subway Fukutoshin, Marunouchi, and Shinjuku Lines. Head out Exit E1, and it’s a quick five-minute walk over! It’s also an easy walk from Shinjuku Station or Higashi-Shinjuku Station, if you happen to be closer to either of those. The shop is open 24/7!
Why locals love it: The fragrance of the famous sardine broth draws in customers from a nearby radius outside the shop! Don’t let the “sardine” scare you; the broth is deep and salty, but even our staff who don’t eat fish thoroughly enjoyed it.
Insider tip: The standard Niboshi Ramen menu doesn’t come with an egg, but it’s easily the most popular topping and incredibly flavorful. We definitely recommend adding it on!
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vwZqc5CTsKLrXhCL8
5. RECORD BAR analog
(Note: You cannot drink in Japan unless you are 20 or older!)
Looking for a night out with a different kind of flair? Stop for a drink or two at this cozy bar in Shibuya filled with vinyl records, warm lighting, and retro analog vibes you won’t find anywhere else.
Getting there: Shibuya Station houses a number of lines. You can take any of the following: the JR Yamanote or Saikyo Lines; the Subway Ginza, Hanzomon, or Fukutoshin Lines; or the Keio Inokashira, Tokyu Toyoko, or Tokyu Den-en-toshi Lines. Go out from Exit A0, and walk about six minutes from there. The cover charge is 900 yen.
Why locals love it: Among the record bars in Tokyo, this one is renowned for both its drink quality and music selection. When you enter, you’ll receive a small token you can use to choose your own song. The bar has a wide selection of both Japanese and Western hits, so you’re sure to find something you love!
Insider tip: If you’re not sure what to order, both the highball and espresso martini are highly recommended! There is a one-drink minimum, so consider that for your first and think about your second from there!
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DSLvVRfyuhKKMWje9
6. Tsurutontan Udon
Among the thousands of udon restaurants in Tokyo, this one hits stylishness levels we’ve never seen elsewhere. Udon aficionados and beginners alike are sure to love this Shinjuku spot!
Getting there: The shop is a super short walk from the Shinjuku Station, which is accessible from a number of JR lines like Yamanote, Shonan-Shinjuku, Chuo, and Saikyo. Head out from Exit 9, and it’s about a four-minute walk straight ahead!
Why locals love it: The shop is open essentially 24/7 (closes occasionally for maintenance), making it a great versatile stop for those in the Shinjuku area. The flexible hours combined with the innovative and unique flavor combinations make it a hot spot at all hours of the day and night.
Insider tip: Among the “traditional” options, the sukiyaki udon is very popular. If you’re in the mood for adventure, the mentaiko (spicy cod roe) cream udon is also a crowd favorite!
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/abbnkHXUuzKqzScM8
7. Shirotae
Boasting almost 50 years in service, Shirotae’s signature rich yet delicate rare cheesecake has patrons literally lining up around the block during its busiest hours. This shop is an absolute can’t-miss for dessert lovers!
Getting there: Take the Subway Marunouchi or Ginza Lines to Akasaka-mitsuke Station. The shop is a three-minute walk from there! It’s open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
Why locals love it: The cheesecake speaks for itself!
Insider tip: Tuesdays and Wednesdays are their least crowded days, so we recommend heading there near opening time to get seated quickly. If you prefer takeout but don’t want to wait in line, you can call ahead to place an order in advance!
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/AM8J2KjPpFf5cmQR6
8. Koenji & Shimokitazawa
If you’re looking to do some thrifting in Japan or just enjoy a stroll with a fun beverage, these two neighboring districts in western Tokyo are the places to be! Both are great for vintage clothing shops and cafes, and if you’re a music fan, you can find some great small businesses for indie and secondhand CDs in the area too.
Getting there: Shimokitazawa Station can be reached by the Odakyu and Keio Inokashira Lines, and Koenji Station is on the JR Chuo Line. It is possible to walk between them but takes some time, so we recommend taking the train instead. Whichever you start in, you can transfer at Shinjuku Station to get to the other!
Why locals love it: Coffee lovers especially flock to Shimokitazawa for the creative and unique drink options available. There are tons of small coffee shops to choose from, many of which have order windows on the outside for quick take-out! Koenji has a grittier, more local vibe. It was Tokyo’s punk-rock hub in the ’70s, and you can still feel that spirit lingers in its livehouses and street art.
Insider tip: Although there are less of them in this area, some “vintage” shops more marketed toward tourists charge crazy prices that locals wouldn’t pay. We recommend shopping around and comparing costs at a few stores to make sure you’re getting a fair deal!
Google Maps link (Koenji Station): https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZLdHVJxuKx8aXDBH9
Google Maps link (Shimokitazawa Station): https://maps.app.goo.gl/Fu6387jHXRd4ouvV7
9. Chofu
Step out of the hustle and bustle and into what feels like a different world in Chofu, part of Tokyo’s western Tama region. The area is filled with greenery and historic spots, many of which are also tied to Yokai (supernatural beings in Japanese folklore). Despite looking quite different from the rest of Tokyo, it’s only a short distance from the city center and makes for a great half-day trip!
Getting there: Take the Keio line to Chofu Station, and you’re done!
Why locals love it: There’s a lot you can do around Chofu! As we mentioned, a lot of the local shrines and parks are filled with Yokai motifs and legends. As an example, Jindaiji Temple in the area houses a pond that’s said to be frequented by water sprites. Both this temple and Futaden Shrine, near Chofu Station, were important locations in the yokai-themed manga GeGeGe no Kitaro, whose author, Shigeru Mizuki, lived in the area. You can find decorations, merch, and other nods to the series all around the Chofu area!
Insider tip: Chofu and the surrounding area is very beautiful and very hilly; we recommend either making use of buses or rental bicycles, or wearing your best walking shoes! It’s a big area with a ton to explore. If you’re looking to take a bus, Google Maps is very accurate in Japan for bus locations and timing!
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pHyvNHbRLgc9hvZP7
10. Hino
This west Tokyo region has deep ties to the Shinsengumi, an important group of masterless samurai formed in 1863 in Kyoto. While they operated in Kyoto, many of the members are from Hino and its surrounding area. Today, the area boasts many museums and historical sites with ties to the samurai group. Whether you’re already a Japanese history buff or looking to learn more, Hino is the perfect place to brush up!
Getting there: Depending where you’re coming from, you can either take the JR Chuo Line to Hino Station, or the Tama Monorail to Koshukaido Station. The area between these stations is filled with Shinsengumi lore!
Why locals love it: No matter when you visit Hino, you can stop by several important and educational Shinsengumi-related sites: the Shinsengumi Hometown History Museum and Toshizo Hijikata Museum (the vice-commander of the group and Hino native), Takahata Fudoson Temple (the family temple of Hijikata), and the Hinoshuku Honjin. The Hinoshuku Honjin is a former inn (the only Edo-period one remaining in Tokyo) where the Shinsengumi founders met. If you happen to be visiting in the spring, the area hosts a Hino Shinsengumi festival on the second Saturday and Sunday of May every year! You can see parades with performers dressed as Shinsengumi members, battle demonstrations, and taiko drum performances!
Insider tip: Looking for a way to get deeper into the Shinsengumi history? Our staff recommended a Shinsengumi-themed otome game called Hakuoki! Through a series of events that we won’t spoil here, the player finds herself in the Shinsengumi’s quarters and soon tangled up in their secrets. While it’s an otome game, it’s also very educational! The game database contains a detailed encyclopedia with the important people and events in the real Shinsengumi’s history.
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YAoM5dBtFvbQeThd9
So, what’s this series all about?
This article is the first in our Not the Tourist series, where we collect the best-kept secrets from our Genki staff in each city to give you a deeper look at what life is really like there. We’ll be posting one article per month until we’ve covered each city that our schools are in! Keep an eye out for the city you’ve been looking to study in, or read through them all to see if a city you hadn’t even considered might be an amazing fit for you.
If you have any questions about the article or spots we recommended, feel free to leave a comment or contact us via our website! We’re happy to chat anytime.
Looking forward to seeing you in Tokyo soon!🌸
