Japan is famous for its temples, shrines, museums, parks and otherattractions, many of which don’t cost a single yen to enjoy.
In Tokyo, your first stop should be the TokyoMetropolitan Government’s 45th-floor observatory, offering surreal viewsover the metropolis and, on clear days, of Mt. Fuji. Also in the TMG is theTokyoTourist Information Center, with information on free tours led byvolunteers who can provide an insider’s view of their city. There are tours ofthe TMG that take in the observation floor and Assembly Hall; if youpre-register, you can also join tours of bustling Shinjuku, including a visitto Isetan department store with its famous food floors. UenoPark and Asakusa,two must-sees, also offer free tours; all you need do is show up.
Tokyo’s spiritual heart is the ImperialPalace, home to the Imperial family. Although the palace is closed to thepublic, you can visit palace grounds on free guided tours. Nearby is theImperial Palace East Garden (free tours available Saturdays), former site ofEdo Palace where the shogun once lived. All that remains today are stonefoundations and walls, towers, and gates, along with a delightful garden.Another popular respite is MeijiShrine, dedicated to Emperor and Empress Meiji and surrounded by denseforest.
Free museums in Tokyo include the SumoMuseum showing several hundred years of sumo history and the SuginamiAnimation Museum, a must for fans of Japanese animation. Company showroomsoffering hours of free entertainment include the SonyBuilding with its five floors of products, 3D theater and PlayStations, andMegawebwith 140-some Toyota models, museum of historic automobiles, and productsdesigned for people with disabilities.
Kyoto is Japan’s iconic historic town, with some 2,000 temples and shrines.It’s not surprising, therefore, that Kyoto Prefecture boasts 17 World HeritageSites, including NishiHonganji, headquarters for some 12 million Shin Buddhists, KamigamoJinja, built in 678 to enshrine the god of thunder, and ShimogamoJinja, one of Kyoto’s oldest shrines. As Kyoto is famous also for itsartisans, be sure to see the free Kyoto Museumof Traditional Crafts.
In the heart of Osaka is Osaka-joKoen, a huge park encircling Osaka Castle and famous for its cherry,apricot and plum trees, moats and stone walls. It’s popular for family outingsand relaxation.
And because Japan has so many temples and shrines, there’s bound to be afestival going on somewhere, offering an only-in-Japan experience. In short,Japan abounds in free sights and activities, all culturally enriching andrewarding.
Yokoso!JAPAN Travel Blog by The Visit Japan Campaign Supporters