Tokyo is an exciting multi-faceted megalopolis and a must-visit for all wanderlusters. It is not only Japan’s capital but also the world’s gourmet capital, with the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in its region. Cost of living in Tokyo is extremely high so do expect to pay significantly more (than when vacationing in other Asian cities).

While Tokyo is not a budget-friendly city, it does not mean that free activities are out of reach. Read our guide to 8 free things to do in Tokyo and find out how you can save yen!

#1 GINZA

Ginza is well known for their luxury brands and gourmet restaurants but that does not mean you should skip a visit to this district due to budget constrains. Besides being a high end shopping district, Ginza is also Japan’s focal point of contemporary design. Every building in Ginza is absurdly aesthetically pleasing to the eye and design junkies will find themselves hopelessly drooling over the impressive works of world famous architects.

Nearest station: Ginza

#2 MEIJI SHRINE

Meiji Shrine is a stone throw away from the bustling Harajuku – we could hardly believe such a tranquil setting could exist right beside a busy railway station! Traditional Shinto ceremonies such as wedding solemnization actually still take place in this serene shrine (also known as Meiji Jingu).

Before entering the sacred site’s main hall, one is expected to wash his/her hands and mouth as a form of purification at the troughs. Other interesting cultural activities include writing your wishes on a wooden plate (500 yen) and hung on the divine tree. Admission fees will be collected for the Treasure House and Inner Garden but entrance to the Meiji Shrine is free of charge.

1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan

Nearest station: Harajuku

#3 OMOTESANDO

Omotesando is an epicentre of luxurious lifestyle with stunning architecture. Its tree-lined avenue has an uncanny resemblance to Paris’ Champs-Élysées and head-turner buildings include Audi Forum Tokyo, Tokyu Plaza, Tod’s Building, Hugo Boss and Sunny Hill.

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of these infrastructures’ extraordinary architectural designs or venture away from the main roads and explore Omotesando’s beautiful residential neighbourhood. The hanging criss-cross electrical wires in the local backstreets make a photographic opportunity and you will be surprised by their flourishing cafe culture.

Nearest station: Omotesando

#4 SHIBUYA CROSSING

Regardless of rain or shine, the famous Shibuya is always jam packed with people. When the traffic light turns red, watch pedestrians cross the junction from all directions in an organized chaos or become a part of the moving crowd!

Photography and videography enthusiasts can camp at the nearby Starbucks at Shibuya Tsutaya’s second floor with other like-minded hobbyists to capture this moment.

Nearest station: Shibuya

#5 TAKESHITA DORI

Takeshita Dori aka Takeshita Street is a pedestrianised street in Harajuku. Opened from 11am – 10pm, the 400 meters long street lined up with cute kiosks and boutique fashion stores is extremely popular amongst Japanese teens. Visit on a Sunday and witness Harajuku’s vibrant cos-play scene, where teenagers will dress up as their favourite anime character in elaborate outfits.

Nearest station: Harajuku

#6 TOKYO NATIONAL ART CENTER

Tokyo is indeed every architect’s wet dream. Tokyo National Art Center is yet another beautifully designed building that is worth checking out. While charges do apply for admission to the art museum’s exhibits, access to the center’s main atrium is actually free. Marvel at the splendid undulating glass façade and its three spectacular conical volumes inside.

Kokuritsu Shin-Bijutsukan
The National Art Center, Tokyo
7-22-2 Roppongi Minato-ku Tokyo 106-8558 Japan

Nearest station: Roppongi

#7 TOKYO OBSERVATORY DECKS

For an impressive view of Tokyo’s city skyline, visit Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building’s (TOCHO) 45th level and Bunkyo Civic Center’s 25th floor. Access to these two buildings’ observatory decks is completely free of charge. Both viewpoints allow you to see the iconic Tokyo Tokyo Sky Tree and even Mount Fuji!

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
2-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo 163-8001, Japan
Nearest station: Tocho-mae

Bunkyo Civic Center
1-16-21 Kasuga, Bunkyo, Tokyo 112-8555, Japan
Nearest station: Korakuen

#8 TSUKIJI TUNA AUCTION

While watching the renowned tuna auction at Tsukiji Fish Market is for free, you would have to be prepared to sacrifice your precious sleep. There are two auctions in the morning and only 120 visitors are allowed to watch this interesting activity. Guests are divided into two batches and it is recommended to arrive as early as 3am to secure a place.

Our arrival at 3.30am landed us in the second batch and any visitor after the 120th will be turned away – this means you should stay within walking distance. The first auction starts at 5.25am and the second one commences at 5.50am. Each auction lasts for about 20 minutes.

There are many guidelines to follow such as no heels, no flip flops and no flash photography. Tsukiji Fish Market is set to relocate in 2016 so do pay a visit before they move! Do note that the auction is not open on a daily basis and it is best to plan in advance.

5 Chome-2-1 Tsukiji, Chuo, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan

Nearest station: Tsukiji Shijo

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She was previously a marketing executive and freelance photographer in the food industry. Her work has been published on Epicure, Lifestyle Asia and Meld Magazine etc.