Gleaming in swathes of orange and white during the day, the Tokyo Tower rises from a sea of skyscrapers in its latticed glory, and soars above the city at 332 meters (1,092 feet). The tower, constructed in 1958, was inspired by the charming form of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and its architect, Tachū Naitō, instantly imbibed this design into his plans for the magnificent tower. A remarkable landmark in this thriving city, the Tokyo Tower hosts a variety of entertainment along its steep stretch. At 150 meters (490 feet), the Main Observatory hosts a viewing platform, while the special platform with incomparable views is located at 250 meters (820.21 feet). On a clear day, the views extend to as far as the lofty pinnacle of Mount Fuji. The Tokyo Tower, among other things, is a dazzling beacon symbolizing the city's success, and appears the most beautiful when illuminated in incandescent colors.
Tokyo Big Sight is one of the premier international exhibition centers, that Tokyo has to offer. This huge center has room for a number of exhibitions and conferences that take place around the year. Apart from this it also features an array of restaurants, cafes, and galleries. One of its growing attractions is the display of nine stunning sculptures known as the 9 Works of Art, which are strategically positioned across different spots within the city, adding to the cultural richness of the area.
Rainbow Bridge, famous for its colorful glow, connects Shibaura Wharf to Odaiba, a prime location for wining and dining in Tokyo. Comprising eight traffic lanes and two railways, the bridge also has a pedestrian walkway and observation towers. Inaugurated in 1993, the suspension bridge is 918 meters (3011 feet) long with a distance of 570 meters (1870 feet) between the two towers. Another way to see this spectacular bridge would be to travel over it on the Yurikamome monorail line departing from Shimbashi. Or you could take a cruise boat upriver from Hinode Pier to Asakusa.
Reputed to be one of the most bustling public crossings in the world, the Shibuya Station Crossing is teeming with activity. As soon as the lights turn red, busy commuters and shoppers surge onto the street in a sort of almost-choreographed dance, weaving through the crowd with expert ease as all traffic stops at once. A slice of daily life is instantly visible here, with commuters, shoppers, and tourists spilling out from the various high-rises, shopping malls, and the subway station. On weekend nights, under the neon-lit signs, the busy junction swells with activity as couples walk hand in hand and young citizens head out for a night on the town, ready to party till the last train leaves. Hunting for the best spot to catch The Scramble (as Shibuya Crossing is locally known) in all its chaotic glory is a fun activity that only adds to the experience as a whole.
Roppongi is the place to be if you’re looking for a mix of Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife and cutting-edge art. After dark, this district buzzes with life, offering everything from hip bars and nightclubs to international dining spots. But Roppongi isn’t just about the night scene—during the day, it’s all about culture. Check out the sleek Roppongi Hills or Tokyo Midtown, where contemporary art galleries like Mori Art Museum and Suntory Museum of Art await. With its fascinating street art and panoramic city views, Roppongi is effortlessly stylish and full of surprises.
Azabu-juban is an upscale neighborhood of Tokyo in the Minato-ku. Here, you'll encounter towering residential buildings, luxurious hotels, chic restaurants, top-notch schools, and prominent embassies from around the world. The area also boasts a variety of retail stores, service shops, gourmet boutiques, and household stores. With its rich history and vibrant cultural scene, Azabu-juban is an integral part of Japan's tourism sector. The neighborhood truly comes alive during events like the February Setsubun and the Flower Festival, adding a festive atmosphere to its dynamic environment.
Harajuku is the area around Harajuku station, located between Shinjuku and Shibuya. Harajuku is known for its high fashion and eclectic shopping. Take a walk down either of the main shopping streets, Omotesando and Takeshita-dōri, and you will find unique stores as well as major chains. Harajuku is also where you can see "Harajuku Girls," teenagers who dress in elaborate outfits that often resemble costumes from a movie or comic book.
Right in the heart of Los Angeles' busy shipping port, the Japanese Memorial on Terminal Island is a heartfelt tribute to the Japanese-American fishing community that once called this place home. Before World War II, this area was alive with culture and tradition, until 1942, when its residents were forcibly relocated and interned. Today, the memorial, with its fisherman statue and story-filled plaques, keeps their legacy alive, reminding visitors of the vibrant cultural history that once thrived in this industrial setting.