Exploring Japan’s capital is a mind-blowing experience; however, it can also blow your budget. Don’t despair—there’s an abundance of things to do and see in Tokyo that don’t cost a single yen. From gardens and temples to contemporary art, sumo practice, and world-famous fish markets, here’s a list of Tokyo’s best free attractions.
1. Stroll the Grounds of the Imperial Palace
Follow the moats and paths surrounding Tokyo’s central point, the Imperial Palace, for views of its famous bridges and remnants of the old medieval keep. It’s a popular local jogging course—5km (3 miles) around the palace grounds—for those wishing to fit in some cardio while admiring the scenery.
Take a detour through the accompanying gardens without dipping into your wallet. The Imperial Palace East Garden includes the Honmaru and Ninomaru, featuring broad lawns, stretches of woodland, and seasonal flora.
The Kokyo Gaien National Garden marks the area in front of the palace’s Sakuradamon Gate, where significant historical events took place. Kitanomaru Park is another highlight, home to the Budokan, Japan’s premier martial arts arena, especially enlivened by blooming cherry blossoms in spring.
2. Follow the Pilgrim Route to Sensō-ji
Follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims by approaching Sensō-ji, Tokyo’s most famous Buddhist temple located in Asakusa. The way is lined with colorful stalls selling souvenirs, from giant rice crackers to handmade paper fans. Senso-ji is Tokyo’s most-visited religious monument, so prepare for swarms of visitors and locals in traditional kimonos.
Planning tip: Visit at dawn for a quieter experience as the temple opens at 6am.
3. Explore the Streets of Harajuku
The Harajuku neighborhood is a visual feast; its main street, Takeshita Dori, is vibrant with colors and cute motifs. Stroll the tree-lined Omote-sando, home to upscale boutiques in contemporary buildings, or relax at Yoyogi Park, host to frequent international festivals celebrating various cultures.
4. See the Tuna Auction at Toyosu Market
Witness Tokyo’s famous tuna auction at Toyosu Market, where a limited number of visitors can apply in advance to watch the rapid-fire bidding from a viewing platform. Although Toyosu lacks the rustic charm of its predecessor, Tsukiji, it offers multimedia experiences detailing the history of the world’s greatest fish market, complete with QR codes for interactive tours.
Planning tip: If you’ve secured tickets for the auction, set your alarm early for the auction starting around 5:30am.
5. Watch Sumo Wrestlers Training
Even if you can’t attend a sumo tournament, visit a sumo stable like Arashio Stable, where visitors can observe morning practice through street-side windows. Practice typically occurs between 7:30am and 10am on weekdays.
6. Follow the Crowd at Shibuya Crossing
Every few minutes, a wave of humanity flows across Shibuya Crossing, believed to be the world’s busiest intersection. Join the masses or stand back and watch, with an ideal viewpoint from Mag’s Park on the roof of a nearby department store. Explore the area to see the famous mural “Myth of Tomorrow” by artist Okamoto Tarō.
7. Visit Yasukuni Shrine
Yasukuni Shrine is Tokyo’s most controversial religious monument, commemorating Japan’s approximately 2.5 million war dead, including kamikaze pilots and convicted war criminals. The shrine, surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring, serves as a site for locals to pay homage to their ancestors.
8. Hear Godzilla Roar
Fans of kaijū will want to visit the giant Godzilla that looms over Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, where it roars every hour between noon and 8pm. Afterward, wander the electrified Kabukicho neighborhood or visit Golden Gai for a taste of local nightlife.
9. Visit Tokyo’s Weird, Wonderful Museums
Tokyo is home to some bizarre museums offering free admission, such as the Meguro Parasitology Museum, showcasing a range of sinister parasites. The Rainbow Sewerage Museum explores the engineering feats needed to manage the metropolis’s waste, while the Bank of Japan Currency Museum offers a rich history of currency in Japan.
10. Walk the Forests of Meiji-jingū
Escape to the densely wooded grounds of Tokyo’s premier Shintō shrine, Meiji-jingū. The walking path is ethereal on misty afternoons, and you might even spot a traditional wedding procession or robe-clad priest.
11. Walk the Rainbow Bridge to Odaiba
This island in Tokyo Bay connects to the city by the Rainbow Bridge, illuminated in colorful lights by night. The 798m-long bridge leads to Odaiba, an ultra-modern commercial district with attractions including an artificial beach and a larger-than-life Gundam statue.
12. Explore the National Diet
For a unique experience, consider a free tour of Japan’s seat of governance, the National Diet, to view its beautifully designed interiors and gardens planted with various native species. English tours are available on select weekdays.
13. Enjoy Tokyo’s Parks and Gardens
Take in the beautiful foliage in Tokyo’s traditional gardens, which often have free entry. Parks like Ueno Park and Inokashira Park are excellent for enjoying pleasant picnics or joining locals for hanami, or cherry blossom viewing parties, during the season.
14. Travel Back to Pre-WWII Tokyo in Yanesen
Explore the neighborhoods of Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi, collectively known as Yanesen, to feel the essence of pre-WWII Tokyo. Enjoy narrow streets lined with small temples, craft shops, and charming cafes.
15. Traverse Tokyo’s Winter Wonderlands
Every winter, Tokyo embraces the festive spirit with seasonal illuminations in parks and commercial complexes. Enjoy displays of lights, including Shibuya’s Ao no Dokutsu and a dazzling LED display near Tokyo Tower.
16. Get Arty in Roppongi
Roppongi, celebrated for its nightlife, is also a vibrant area for art lovers. Explore public art, contemporary architecture in Roppongi Hills, and the National Art Center Tokyo while soaking in the dynamic ambience.
17. Enjoy Views from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Get a bird’s-eye view of Tokyo from the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. On clear days, you may catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji and witness the city aglow during sunset.
18. Peruse Tsukiji Market’s Stalls
Though the inner market has moved, Tsukiji still offers a lively atmosphere with stalls selling culinary delights. Arrive early for breakfast at food vendors to experience a taste of old Tokyo.
19. Climb Mount Takao
Venture to Mt Takao in the Tokyo suburbs for a refreshing hike. Offering breathtaking views, this peak is worth visiting during the autumn foliage season for a spectacular experience.
This article was first published on May 31, 2019, and updated on March 21, 2024.
