Tokyo's 6 Must-Visit Cultural Heritage Sites: Experience the Charm of Edo! With Transportation Information

Want to experience the quaint atmosphere of old Tokyo but don't know where to start? Kinnso has selected 6 must-visit cultural heritage sites in Tokyo, including Senso-ji Temple, the Imperial Palace, and the Tokyo National Museum. Each place will take you back to the glory days of Edo! These sites are not only spiritual symbols for Tokyoites but also hide many little-known historical anecdotes. Let us transform into time travelers and embark on this journey through time, uncovering Tokyo's past and present from different perspectives. Taking the path of cultural heritage will give you a deeper understanding of Japanese history and culture.

As Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji Temple was built in the 7th century and is a religious center for Tokyo residents. Walking along the pilgrimage path, the magnificent Kaminarimon Gate and five-story pagoda come into view one after another, the solemn atmosphere making people suddenly feel awed. You might as well go shopping for Asakusa specialties in Nakamise-dori Street for a unique flavor. Transportation: Get off at Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro or Toei Subway, and it's a 5-minute walk.

After Emperor Meiji moved the capital to Tokyo, Edo Castle was transformed into the Imperial Palace. Today's Imperial Palace is the residence of the Japanese emperor, covering a vast area. Its outer perimeter features a moat and stone walls, creating an imposing atmosphere. The Nijubashi Bridge spans across it, holding great symbolic meaning. Visitors can explore the East Garden to admire the traditional Japanese garden scenery. Transportation: Get off at Tokyo Station on the JR Line, exit from Marunouchi Central Exit, and walk for 10 minutes to reach the palace.

Built in 1872, it is the largest museum in Japan. Here, a large collection of national treasures from Japan is on display, ranging from paintings, sculptures, calligraphy to archaeological artifacts, taking you on a journey through the development of Japanese art. The "Main Building" of the Japanese Museum is even built with traditional architectural craftsmanship, making it an artwork itself.
Transportation: Take the JR Ueno Station or Railway Line Ueno Station, exit at Koen-guchi and walk for 7 minutes.

Built in commemoration of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, covering approximately 700,000 square meters, the serene environment makes it an oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. As soon as you enter the gate, the dense forest and towering torii gate instantly transport you away from the city's noise. This place is not only a sacred site for worship but also offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese weddings.

Located in Takashio, the Western-style building houses Japan's first national art museum. The collection focuses on Japanese modern art from the Meiji period to postwar era, including paintings, prints, and sculptures. The outdoor sculpture garden showcases large works by 20th-century Japanese sculptors, worth savoring. Transportation: Take Tokyo Metro Tozai Line or Hibiya Line to Takashio Station, exit at 1b for direct access.

The shrine was built over 1,300 years ago and is the place of worship for the samurai Sugawara no Michizane. Akasaka Shrine is famous for its Qixi Festival offerings and flowing horse-drawn paintings. Every Qixi Festival, thousands of colorful lanterns adorn the shrine, and the flowing stream is filled with wish-writing painted horses, creating a dreamy and romantic atmosphere. Transportation: Get off at "Korakuen" Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Namboku Line, or Toei Subway Mita Line, and walk for 3 minutes.