From Iconic Landmarks to Museums: Discover Tokyo’s Rich History Through Sightseeing

When people think of sightseeing in Tokyo, many imagine iconic spots like Tokyo Tower, Skytree, Shibuya, or Harajuku. In this vast metropolis, modern commercial facilities and tourist attractions are constantly emerging. However, Tokyo, which has been Japan's center since the Edo period, is also rich in historical tourist sites! So this time, we’ll introduce classic sightseeing spots in Tokyo where you can also learn about its history.

1. Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa is an especially popular spot among international tourists in recent years! In front of its iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), it’s common to see many foreigners taking photos. As one of Tokyo's oldest sightseeing landmarks, its origins trace all the way back to the Asuka period in the year 628, according to temple lore. During the Edo period, it was revered as a temple where the shogunate offered prayers, and it features many highlights including a five-storied pagoda and the Hozomon Gate.

2. Yasukuni Shrine

Located in Kudan, Chiyoda-ku, Yasukuni Shrine is dedicated to enshrining the spirits of Japan’s war dead. Originally built in 1869 (Meiji 2) as a "Shokonsha" (a shrine to summon souls), the shrine celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2019. It is also well-known as a cherry blossom spot, and sees many visitors not only during New Year’s and Obon, but also in early spring. The First Torii gate in front of the Tayasu Gate of Edo Castle is one of the largest in Japan! The Second Torii is also the largest bronze torii in the country.

3. Kagurazaka

Kagurazaka refers to the narrow slope stretching from in front of Iidabashi Ushigome Mitsuke and its surrounding area. The main Kagurazaka Street is bustling, but it’s a one-way road that changes direction between morning and afternoon. Once you step into the back alleys, you’ll find cobblestone paths and winding lanes lined with refined traditional restaurants and stylish cafés.
Kagurazaka, once visited by many gourmet enthusiasts and literary figures, becomes even more charming when walked through at night. On holidays, the area turns into a pedestrian-only zone, attracting crowds of both domestic and international tourists. Also, at the “Fujiya Iidabashi Kagurazaka store,” you’ll find the only place in Japan that manufactures and sells Peko-chan-yaki.

4. Nihonbashi

Nihonbashi was once the starting point of the five major highways stretching out from Edo. The current stone bridge was constructed in 1911 (Meiji 44) and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. It has long been a core of Tokyo’s economy, with notable institutions such as “Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store,” the “Bank of Japan Head Office,” “Nihonbashi Takashimaya,” and the historic “Sembikiya Main Store,” a luxury fruit purveyor continuing from the Edo period.
Also recommended is the “Nihonbashi Cruise,” which takes you along the Sumida River starting from Nihonbashi.

5. State Guest House

A State Guest House is a facility used to host foreign dignitaries, such as heads of state and royalty. In Japan, there are two such facilities: one in Tokyo and one in Kyoto. The one in Moto-Akasaka, Minato Ward, Tokyo is officially called the Akasaka Palace (State Guest House).
Since fiscal year 2016, the Akasaka Palace has been open to the public year-round. Visitors can explore the main building and gardens without prior reservation. However, to visit the Japanese-style annex, an online reservation is required. As this facility represents the "face of the nation," its interior is lavish and grand. Noteworthy highlights include a mural by Ryohei Koiso displayed in the grand hall and an 800-kilogram chandelier in the Hagoromo Room—both are must-sees.

6. Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace, the current residence of the Emperor in peacetime, is also a popular historical tourist attraction in Tokyo. The central areas of the former Edo Castle—namely the Honmaru (main circle), Ninomaru (second circle), and Sannomaru (third circle)—are open to the public as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace.
Although located in the heart of Tokyo, the Imperial Palace is surrounded by tranquil greenery, making it ideal for a peaceful city walk. The striking contrast between the historical stone walls and moats and the towering skyscrapers of Otemachi makes for a perfect composition in Tokyo sightseeing photos. In the southern outer garden of the East Gardens, you can also visit highlights such as the Nijubashi Bridge, Sakuradamon Gate, and Wadakura Fountain Park. In spring, the Chidorigafuchi area becomes a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, attracting crowds of hanami (flower viewing) visitors.

7. Edo-Tokyo Museum

Located next to Ryogoku Kokugikan (Sumo Hall), the Edo-Tokyo Museum is a metropolitan museum where you can learn about the history and culture of Tokyo. Its permanent exhibitions showcase scenes from the lively streets of Edo (old Tokyo) using models and dioramas.
You can also experience life in the Edo period with life-size reconstructions such as Nihonbashi Bridge and traditional shared row houses (Munewari Nagaya). In the restaurant area, you can enjoy meals themed on Edo-period cuisine, or opt for Western-style dishes from “Mikasa Kaikan,” a historic restaurant that has operated in Ginza for nearly 100 years.

8. Tokyo National Museum

Located in Ueno, the Tokyo National Museum is Japan’s oldest museum, having opened in 1872 (Meiji 5). The current main building, constructed in 1938 (Showa 13), is recognized as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
The main building, designed in the Imperial Crown Style, presents exhibitions under the theme of “The Flow of Japanese Art,” showcasing a variety of Japanese artworks. Many of the exhibits are well-known pieces that also appear in school textbooks, making the visit highly worthwhile. Nearby, you’ll also find the National Museum of Nature and Science, the National Museum of Western Art, and the Ueno Royal Museum, so one day is hardly enough to fully explore the area.

◎ In Conclusion: Explore Historic Sites and Ruins

Tokyo is home to many more tourist spots steeped in history. In recent years, city tours focusing on historical sites and ruins have grown in popularity. A major advantage of historical sightseeing in Tokyo is how easy it is to access these places via public transportation. Even right next to trendy attractions, you’ll often find remnants of the past waiting to be discovered.

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From Iconic Landmarks to Museums: Discover Tokyo’s Rich History Through Sightseeing