Tokyo's Hidden Gems: Culture, Nature, and Adventure
Source:
@Currently Hannah
17 attractions in Japan featured in a youtube post by Currently Hannah, verified on Google Maps: Jindaiji Temple, Zenkō-ji temple, Togakushi-Jinja, and 14 more.
Jindaiji Temple
Buddhist temple
4.3
Jindaiji Temple, located on the west side of Tokyo, is known for its non-touristy, chill vibe and traditional Japanese architecture. The temple hosts a Gomadaki Ritual twice daily (11:00 AM and 1:00 PM), where participants write wishes on wooden planks, which are then prayed over and burned by monks. It's an hour away from Tokyo Station and can be reached via train to Chofu Station, followed by a 15-minute bus ride.
Zenkō-ji temple
Place of worship
4.5
Zenkoji Temple, located right next to Nagano Station, is a massive and beautiful Buddhist temple in Japan. The approach to the temple is lined with charming shops and restaurants, offering a pleasant walk. Inside the temple and its surrounding area, there are numerous interesting sights, making it a worthy visit either bundled with other nearby attractions or as a standalone experience.
Togakushi-Jinja
Place of worship
4.4
Togakushi Shrine in Nagano, Japan, is a stunning site featuring ancient cedar-lined paths that lead to five main shrines. The area offers beautiful scenic hikes through towering trees and is particularly magical in different seasons, though the full hike may be inaccessible due to snow in winter. Visitors can reach it by taking a 2-hour train from Tokyo to Nagano Station, followed by a 1-hour bus ride to Hokousha Bus Stop to begin the pilgrimage-like hike.
Jindai Botanical Gardens
Botanical garden
4.2
Jindai Botanical Garden is a vast and diverse garden that hosts one of the largest and most interesting collections of unique and sometimes rare flora from around the world. With an entrance fee of just 500 yen, it offers a tranquil escape from the city, ideal for nature lovers. The garden is highly seasonal, making spring the best time to visit for vibrant displays like the rose garden.
Sorano Hotel
Hotel
4.5
SORANO HOTEL is a beautiful, modern hotel with a Japanese Zen architectural style, boasting a stunning heated infinity pool on the rooftop with potential views of Mount Fuji on a clear day. Located a 10-minute walk from Tachikawa Station, it offers luxurious rooms and is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and a cinema. While a stay can be pricey, off-season rates are more affordable, though an additional fee applies for pool access.
Vowz Bar
Bar
4.4
Vowz Bar in Tokyo offers a unique and authentic experience, as it is run by real Buddhist monks who serve alcoholic drinks and Shojin ryori bar snacks. Throughout the night, the monks host mini Buddhism sermons in both Japanese and English, inviting guests to participate in chanting sutras. This wholesome and fun bar is easily accessible by a 5-minute walk from Yotsuya Sanchome Station.
Ishiwariyama
Mountain peak
4.4
Mount Ishiwari offers the most easily accessible and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, making it a highly recommended hiking destination within a day trip from Tokyo. The point-to-point hike covers 8-10 km with a manageable 400m elevation gain, typically taking 4-5 hours. Hikers can start at Yamanakako Hirano Bus Stop, reachable by a direct bus from Shinjuku, and enjoy uninterrupted panoramic views, especially from the areas around Mount Hirao and Mount Ohira.
Minamiinaga Lake
Lake
4.5
Minami Inaga Lake is an exceptionally beautiful lake, especially during autumn when the surrounding trees showcase vibrant foliage and swans swim gracefully on its surface. It offers stunning photographic opportunities, although reaching it requires driving as there is no public transportation available. This picturesque location is ideal for those seeking serene natural beauty and a peaceful escape.
Canadian Camp Riding Club
Sports club
4.6
Canadian Camp Yatsugatake offers a unique Yabusame experience, traditional Japanese horseback archery, which was historically used for samurai training. Visitors can learn archery and horseback riding, then combine the two in a challenging and exhilarating activity. The camp tailors the experience to all skill levels, from absolute beginners to professional riders, and provides optional traditional attire for an additional fee.
Yawataya Isogoro Main Store
Food store
4.3
Yawataya Isogoro is a spice shop near Zenkoji Temple where visitors can create their own custom Japanese Shichimi hot pepper blend. Customers choose various flavors to craft a personalized hot pepper powder to take home, making for a unique and affordable souvenir. The experience is highly recommended for anyone looking for a fun and engaging activity.
Fuchinobō
Buddhist temple
4.3
Fuchinobo is a restaurant that serves Shojin ryori, traditional Japanese monk's cuisine, which is entirely vegan. The food adheres to strict rules, such as including five different colors and flavors in each dish, resulting in a surprisingly unique and delicious culinary experience. It is highly recommended for anyone, including non-vegans, seeking a traditional and flavorful meal.
Nakamura Keith Haring Collection
Art museum
4.3
The Nakamura Keith Haring Collection is a museum dedicated to the art of Keith Haring, housed within a building known for its famous modern architecture. It is located near Kobuchizawa Station and can be reached by renting an e-bike from the station. The surrounding area also features other interesting architectural sites and a brewery, making it a good destination for art and design enthusiasts.
Uchu Brewing Taproom
Brewpub
4.6
Uchu Brewing Taproom offers a selection of delicious brewed drinks in a modern, glass-enclosed building, and is located in an area with interesting architecture near Kobuchizawa Station. It's an excellent spot to relax and enjoy unique beverages. This brewery is easily accessible via an e-bike rental from Kobuchizawa Station, making it a convenient stop while exploring the area's other attractions.
Sakura Wanitsuka
Landmark
4.4
Wanitsuka no Sakura is a scenic photography spot featuring a beautiful cherry blossom tree with Mount Fuji in the background, creating an iconic Japanese landscape. While there isn't much to do beyond taking pictures, it offers a stunning view, especially during cherry blossom season. It is accessible by car, ideal for those driving through the area.
Yamataka Jindai Zakura
Scenic spot
4.4
Yamataka Jindai Zakura is home to one of the world's oldest cherry blossom trees, estimated to be around 2500 years old, making it a historically significant and awe-inspiring natural wonder. The site also features a unique cherry blossom tree whose seeds were sent to space and later mutated. It is a must-visit for cherry blossom enthusiasts and those interested in unique natural phenomena, though access is easier by car.
Asobi Cafe
Cafe
4.5
Asobi Cafe in Kanda and Jimbocho is a vibrant board game cafe with a wide selection of games, including many in English. If the cafe is full, visitors can request to join an existing group, making it a great place to meet new people and make friends. The cafe also serves delicious food and drinks, providing a cozy and interactive social experience.
Satologue (さとローグ)
Hotel
4.9
Satologue is a luxurious nature retreat located just two hours from Tokyo, offering a deeply relaxing and restorative sauna experience. It boasts brand-new facilities designed with meticulous attention to detail, providing guests with everything needed for a perfect visit, including wellness shots, full sauna use, cold plunges with river water, and post-sauna drinks. While on the pricier side, it's ideal for a special occasion or a romantic getaway, accessible by taking two trains from Tachikawa Station to Kori Station, followed by a 14-minute walk.