10 Fun Places I Regret Not Visiting with My Family in Tokyo

Fun Places I Regret Not Visiting with My Family in Tokyo

During our last family trip to Tokyo, we missed out on these 10 amazing places. I felt sad about that, but now we’ve visited them all!

Let me share why they’re worth adding to your Tokyo adventure. Each spot offers something special that your family will love.

Whether it’s exciting theme parks or cool museums, these places create great memories. Here’s why you should check them out on your next Tokyo trip! 😊

1. Shibuya Sky

The elevator going up to Shibuya Sky
The elevator going up to Shibuya Sky

a. Unique Rooftop Experience

  • Enjoy a 360-degree view of Tokyo’s skyline from the open-air deck
  • Relax on the Sky Edge for a thrilling photo spot
  • Interactive light displays enhance the atmosphere

b. Planning Your Visit

Sky Gate Ticket Counter

  • The entrance to Shibuya Sky is on the 14th floor of Shibuya Scramble Square
  • Book your tickets online 4 weeks in advance for the best time slots
  • Aim for a time slot about 1 hour before sunset to experience both day and night views
  • Dress appropriately – bring a jacket for windy or evening visits
  • Avoid skirts or dresses due to potentially strong winds

c. Exploring the Zones

Cloud Hammocks

  • Sky Gate: Begin your trip on floor 14. Here you’ll find ticket counters, information desks, and souvenir shops. Take the fast elevator up to floor 45.
  • Sky Gallery: Go to floor 46 to see the indoor viewing area. Enjoy digital art and grab a snack here.
  • Sky Stage: Go to the roof to see the main outdoor viewing area.
  • On the Sky Stage (rooftop), lie down in the Cloud Hammocks for a cool way to look at the sky.

d. Must-See Attractions

View of Shibuya

  • Look down at the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing.
  • Spot Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, and Mount Fuji from the observation deck.
  • Visit the Sky Edge corner for the best photo opportunities.
  • Watch the Crossing Light laser display at night on the Sky Stage (rooftop). The patterns change with the seasons.

e. Locker Location and Cost

  • Use the small lockers provided for personal items – large bags aren’t allowed on the outdoor deck
  • The lockers are located on the 46th floor. They are adjacent to the entrance of Sky Stage and the Sky Gallery
  • The cost for using a locker is 100 yen (under $1)
  • You receive your 100 yen coin back when you retrieve your items

f. Practical Tips

  • You can bring cameras, but tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks aren’t allowed
  • Come early to catch the sunset, or arrive later to view the city’s nighttime lights
  • During your elevator ride, watch out for an exciting 3D sound and light show

g. How to Get There

Elevator to Shibuya Sky

  1. Take the JR Yamanote Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line, Den-en-toshi Line, Keio Inokashira Line, or Tokyo Metro (Ginza, Hanzomon, Fukutoshin lines) to Shibuya Station.
  2. Follow signs for the East Exit or Shibuya Scramble Square Exit.
  3. Take the elevator to the 14th floor, where the Shibuya Sky entrance is located.

Read More: 17 Top Things to Do in Shibuya

2. Sanrio Puroland

An entertaining show in Sanrio Puroland
An entertaining show in Sanrio Puroland

a. What to Expect

  • Indoor theme park dedicated to Hello Kitty and other Sanrio characters
  • It’s often called “Hello Kitty Land”
  • The park features rides, shows, shops, and restaurants all themed around Sanrio characters
  • Located in Tama New Town, western Tokyo
  • Perfect for fans of cute characters and family-friendly entertainment

b. Planning Your Visit

Sanrio Puroland Parade

  • Check the park’s schedule on their website for show times and special events
  • Buy tickets in advance to save time and money
  • The park is very photo-friendly, so charge your camera or phone
  • Consider purchasing a “Puropass” for express access to popular attractions
  • Plan to spend about 3-4 hours at Sanrio Puroland

c. Must-See Attractions

Sanrio Character Boat Ride

  • Sanrio Character Boat Ride: Sanrio Character Boat Ride: A 10-minute journey through Hello Kitty’s party with My Melody, Little Twin Stars, Pompompurin, and Cinnamoroll.
  • Lady Kitty House: Tour Hello Kitty’s home and take a photo with her.
  • My Melody Road Drive: A slow-paced ride with photo opportunities.
  • Kiki & Lala Twinklingtour: Explore the birthplace of the Little Twin Stars.
  • Miracle Gift Parade: A colorful parade featuring Sanrio characters.

d. Dining Options

Sanrio Rainbow World Restaurant Food

  • Sanrio Rainbow World Restaurant: Offers character-themed meals including pasta, roast beef, omurice, and desserts.
  • Character Food Court: Features character-modeled pasta and curry dishes.
  • Cinnamoroll Dream Cafe: Specializes in cute desserts like roll cakes, decorated muffins, and ice cream sodas.

e. How to Get There

  1. From Shinjuku Station
  • Take the Keio Line bound for Hashimoto
  • Get off at Keio Tama Center Station
  • The journey takes about 30 minutes and cost 360 yen
  1. From Keio Tama Center Station

Keio Tama Center Station

  • Exit via the central ticket gate
  • Walk up the Sanrio mural staircase
  • Follow the raised walkway for 1-2 minutes
  • Turn left after the Okanoue Plaza
  • You’ll see Sanrio Puroland at the end of the street

Read More: A Complete Guide to Sanrio Puroland

3. teamLab Borderless

Dazzling light installations at Bubble Universe of teamLab Borderless
Dazzling light installations at Bubble Universe of teamLab Borderless

a. What to Expect

  • More than 50 pieces of art are scattered across a big, open canvas
  • Experience a world where art has no boundaries between pieces
  • You can walk around freely – there’s no set path to follow
  • The artworks move and blend between different areas on their own
  • Feel free to touch and interact with the art – it’s part of the experience

b. Must-See Experiences

Borderless World

  • Wander through the Borderless World, the biggest space with constantly changing digital artwork
  • Immerse yourself in the Bubble Universe, where you can interact with floating spheres
  • Create your own marine animal at the Sketch Ocean exhibit
  • Check out the Light Sculpture, a huge interactive display of lights and colors
  • Experience the unique tea house for a blend of traditional and digital art (additional fee)

c. Tips for Enjoying Your Visit

  • Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be walking and standing a lot
  • Avoid baggy shorts or skirts due to mirrored floors
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the museum
  • Go with the flow and let yourself get lost in the borderless world
  • Book tickets in advance online for a specific date and entry time slot

d. How to Get There

Entrance of teamLab Borderless

By Tokyo Metro: Take the Hibiya Line to Kamiyacho Station. Use Exit 5, which leads directly to teamLab Borderless.

Read More: 5 Days in Tokyo Itinerary: How to Do It Under $550

4. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo

One of the many sets in Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo
One of the many sets in Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo

a. What to Expect

  • It’s the largest Harry Potter attraction in the world and the first Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Asia
  • A walk-through entertainment facility showcasing behind-the-scenes of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films
  • Offers a chance to explore authentic sets, costumes, and props from the films
  • Not a theme park with rides, but an immersive experience into the wizarding world

b. Planning Your Visit

  • Book tickets in advance online – they’re not available for purchase at the attraction
  • Choose a specific date and entry time slot when booking
  • Plan to spend about 4 hours to fully enjoy the experience
  • Check the official website for opening hours, which vary throughout the year

c. What You’ll See

The Ministry of Magic

  • The Ministry of Magic (exclusive to Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo)
  • Platform 9 ¾ with the Hogwarts Express
  • The Great Hall of Hogwarts, faithfully reproduced from the movies
  • The Forbidden Forest
  • Diagon Alley

d. Top Engaging Experiences You Must Try

Broomstick Riding Experience

  • Green screen broomstick riding experience
  • Become part of a moving Hogwarts portrait
  • Join the crowd in a Quidditch match scene
  • Explore the props and costumes up close

e. Dining Options

1. Backlot Cafe: Savor hot meals and themed sets

Food at Backlot Cafe

  • Meal sets themed to the four Hogwarts houses
  • English-style dishes
  • Magical afternoon tea inspired by Professor Umbridge
  • Butterbeer
  • Various Harry Potter-themed desserts

2. The Food Hall: Enjoy British cuisine with a magical twist

  • Fish & Chips
  • Shepherd’s Pie
  • Bangers & Mash
  • Great Hall Feast
  • Platform 9 ¾ All Day Breakfast (signature dish) – includes fried eggs, beans, bacon, sausage, shiitake mushrooms, salad, and a cheese toast branded with the iconic 9¾ logo

3. Frog Cafe: Indulge in wizarding-themed sweet treats

  • Cupcakes themed to Hogwarts houses
  • Ice cream
  • Milkshakes
  • Shaved ice

4. Butterbeer Bar: Enjoy the iconic drink and light snacks

  • Butterbeer (the famous non-alcoholic beverage)
  • Popcorn
  • Crisps

f. How to Get There

  • From Ikebukuro Station: Take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line bound for Toshimaen and get off at Toshimaen Station. The journey takes about 17 minutes and costs 190 yen one way. Exit the station and walk straight for about 2 minutes.
  • From Shinjuku Station: Take the Toei Oedo Line to Toshimaen Station. This takes about 20 minutes and costs 280 yen one way. Use Exit A2, turn left on the street in front of 7-Eleven, and walk for about 5 minutes.

5. Tokyo Disneyland

Breathtaking castle at the Tokyo Disneyland
Breathtaking castle at the Tokyo Disneyland

a. What to Expect

  • The first Disney park built outside the United States, opened in 1983
  • Features seven themed areas: World Bazaar, Adventureland, Westernland, Critter Country, Fantasyland, Toontown, and Tomorrowland
  • Combines classic Disney attractions with unique Japanese touches

b. Must-See Attractions

Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast

  • Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast: A magical trackless ride through iconic scenes with animatronics and classic songs from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
  • Space Mountain: A high-speed roller coaster through the galaxy
  • Pooh’s Hunny Hunt: A unique trackless dark ride based on Winnie the Pooh
  • Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek: An interactive dark ride with flashlight tag
  • “it’s a small world”: A classic boat ride featuring dolls from around the world

c. Shows and Parades

Disney Harmony in Color

  • Disney Harmony in Color: A daytime parade featuring Disney characters on colorful floats
  • Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade Dreamlights: A nighttime parade with illuminated floats
  • Nighttime fireworks display (check the schedule as it may not run daily)

d. Planning Your Visit

  • Buy tickets online in advance – no on-site sales available.
  • Use the free Priority Pass (formerly FastPass) for popular attractions. Get the passes via the Tokyo Disney Resort App – they’re free but limited daily.
  • Consider purchasing Disney Premier Access for popular rides to skip long lines.
  • Download the Tokyo Disney Resort app to check wait times, buy Disney Premier Access for top rides, and order food at select restaurants.
  • Plan to arrive at least an hour before the park opens to beat the crowds.

e. How to Get There

Maihama Station

  • Take the JR Keiyo Line or JR Musashino Line to Maihama Station.
  • When you arrive at Maihama Station, you should exit through the South Exit.
  • Follow the crowd and go straight.
  • The walk from Maihama Station to Tokyo Disneyland takes about 5 minutes.

Read More: 20 Best Rides at Tokyo Disneyland

6. Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo DisneySea

a. Unique Features

  • Only DisneySea in the world, with nautical and adventure themes
  • 8 themed ports of call, each with distinct attractions
  • More adult-oriented than Tokyo Disneyland

b.Top Attractions

Frozen Kingdom
Photo Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort
  • Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey in Fantasy Springs, where you board a boat to experience the heartwarming tale of Anna and Elsa, accompanied by beloved songs from Frozen
  • Journey to the Center of the Earth in Mysterious Island for a thrilling adventure through a volcanic landscape
  • Soaring: Fantastic Flight in Mediterranean Harbor for breathtaking views over iconic global landmarks
  • Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival in Rapunzel’s Forest, where you can enjoy beautiful lantern displays and an enchanting ride experience

c. Must Watch Show

Don’t miss the Believe! Sea of Dreams show of DisneySea

Watching “Believe! Sea of Dreams” is a must because it transforms the Mediterranean Harbor into a stunning spectacle with vibrant projections, lasers, and beloved Disney characters, all celebrating the power of dreams and wishes.

d. Tips for Maximizing Your Time

  • Use the Priority Pass: This free service allows you to enjoy select attractions with reduced wait times. You can obtain it through the Tokyo Disney Resort App as soon as you enter the park.
  • Consider Disney Premier Access: For a fee, this option allows you to skip the lines for ultra-popular attractions. It’s worth considering if you want to maximize your time on busy days.
  • Take advantage of Single Rider lines: Some attractions offer Single Rider options, which can significantly reduce your wait time.
  • Plan your meals ahead: Make reservations for popular restaurants using the app to avoid long waits during lunch or dinner.

e. Planning Tips

  • Purchase tickets in advance online – no tickets sold on site
  • Download the Tokyo Disney Resort App for real-time wait times and maps
  • Consider staying at a Disney hotel for early entry privileges

f. How to Get There

  1. By JR Train: Take the JR Keiyo Line or Musashino Line to Maihama Station. The trip from Tokyo Station takes about 15 minutes.
  2. From Maihama Station: Exit through the South Exit and walk to Resort Gateway Station (about 2 minutes).
  3. By Disney Resort Line: From Resort Gateway Station, take the monorail to Tokyo DisneySea Station (about 9 minutes, 260 yen for adults).
  4. From Tokyo DisneySea Station: It’s a short 1-minute walk to the park entrance.

Read More: 17 Best Rides at Tokyo DisneySea

7. Odaiba

Rainbow Bridge Odaiba

a. Discover a Futuristic Waterfront

  • An artificial island in Tokyo Bay, known for entertainment and shopping
  • Take in stunning views of Tokyo Bay and Rainbow Bridge
  • Visit the life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue that transforms with lights and movement
  • Relax on Odaiba’s artificial beach

b. Top Attractions

Mesmerizing life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue
Mesmerizing life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue
  • Unicorn Gundam Statue: A life-sized robot statue outside DiverCity Tokyo Plaza.
  • Fuji TV Building: Famous for its unique design, it has an observation deck with amazing views of Tokyo Bay.
  • TeamLab Planets: An immersive digital art museum where you move through different elements and interact with stunning light installations.
  • Rainbow Bridge: Spectacular views, especially when illuminated at night.

c. Entertainment Options

  • Tokyo Joypolis: Indoor amusement park with virtual reality experiences.
  • Legoland Discovery Center: Great for families with young children.
  • Madame Tussauds Tokyo: Wax museum with celebrity figures.

d. How to Get There

  • Take the Yurikamome Line from Shimbashi Station to Daiba Station (about 15 minutes)
  • Take the Rinkai Line from Shinjuku or Shibuya to Tokyo Teleport Station (about 26 minutes)

*The Yurikamome Line offers scenic views as it crosses Rainbow Bridge. For most visitors, taking the train (either Yurikamome or Rinkai Line) is the most convenient option to reach Odaiba.

Read More: 17 Fun Things to Do in Odaiba

8. Ueno Zoo

A peek of a polar bear in Ueno Zoo
A peek of a polar bear in Ueno Zoo

a. Zoo Highlights

  • Japan’s oldest zoo, opened in 1882
  • Home to over 3,000 animals from about 400 species
  • Divided into East and West Gardens, connected by a bridge
  • Famous for its giant pandas, a rare sight in Japan

b. East Garden Highlights

Gorilla

  • Gorilla Woods – observe Western lowland gorillas
  • Tiger Forest – home to Sumatran tigers
  • Bear Hill – featuring various bear species
  • Elephant Forest – see Asian elephants up close

c. West Garden Highlights

  • Giant Panda exhibit – the zoo’s star attraction
  • African animals – including giraffes, hippos, and zebras
  • Vivarium – houses reptiles and amphibians
  • Small Mammal House – see nocturnal animals
  • Shinobazu Pond – observe native bird species
  • Children’s Zoo – interactive area for kids

d. Must-See Animals

Panda

  • Giant pandas – Ueno Zoo’s most famous residents
  • Sumatran tigers in the Tiger Forest
  • Western lowland gorillas in Gorilla Woods
  • Polar bears and seals in the Arctic area
  • Aye-ayes – rare nocturnal primates from Madagascar

e. How to Get There

Take a train to JR Ueno Station. Exit from either the Ueno Park Exit or Shinobazu Exit. It’s a 5-minute walk from either exit to the zoo.

9. Hitachi Seaside Park

Hitachi Seaside Park

a. What to Expect

  • A spacious 350-hectare park near Mito in Ibaraki Prefecture
  • Known for its stunning seasonal flower displays
  • Features green spaces, an amusement park, and cycling trails
  • Overlooks the Pacific Ocean
  • Open year-round with changing attractions each season

b. Spring Highlights (Late April to Mid-May)

Nemophila Flowers

  • Nemophila flowers create a stunning “blue carpet” on Miharashi Hill
  • Over 5.3 million blue flowers bloom, blending with the sky
  • Tulips and daffodils also bloom in other areas of the park
  • Enter from the West Entrance (Tsubasa no Gate) for easiest access to Miharashi Hill
  • Try nemophila-inspired sweets and drinks at park cafes

c. Summer Highlights (July to August)

Green Kochia Plants

  • Green kochia plants cover Miharashi Hill, resembling fluffy green pom-poms
  • Enjoy bright zinnias in various colors
  • About 30,000 sunflowers bloom in August
  • Perfect time for picnics and outdoor activities

d. Autumn Highlights (September to October)

Vast stretches of red kochia at Hitachi Seaside Park
Vast stretches of red kochia at Hitachi Seaside Park
  • Kochia plants turn a vibrant red, creating a surreal autumn landscape
  • Over two million pink and orange cosmos flowers bloom
  • Best viewing time for red kochia is early to mid-October
  • Cooler temperatures make it ideal for exploring the whole park
  • Fantastic photo opportunities with the colorful hillsides

e. Winter Highlights (December to March)

  • Ice tulips bloom in the Guest House from late December to early January
  • Japanese plum trees blossom from February to March
  • Quieter season with fewer crowds
  • Enjoy winter illuminations and events

f. Park Activities and Facilities

  • Rent a bicycle to explore the 11km of cycling paths (600 yen for 3 hours)
  • Take the Seaside Train for a tour around the park (600 yen for a 1-day pass)
  • Visit the Pleasure Garden amusement park with over 25 rides
  • Enjoy the 100-meter tall Ferris wheel for panoramic views

g. How to Get There

  1. Take the JR Joban Line from Ueno Station to Katsuta Station (2 hours 17 minutes, 2,310 yen).
  2. Alternatively, take a Hitachi and Tokiwa limited express from Ueno Station to Katsuta Station (1 hour 30 minutes, 3,890 yen).
  3. The Ibaraki Kotsu bus departs from Bus Stop No. 2 at Katsuta Station’s East Exit.
  4. The bus journey takes about 20 minutes, and the fare is 450 yen.

Read More: 10 New Things to Do in Tokyo

10. Small Worlds Miniature Museum

Realistic exhibits of Small Worlds Tokyo
Realistic exhibits of Small Worlds Tokyo

a. What to Expect

  • One of the largest miniature museums in Asia
  • Features intricate miniature worlds
  • Offers a unique indoor experience, perfect for any weather
  • Combines miniatures, lights, and music for an immersive experience

b. Must-See Exhibits

Miniature Kansai International Airport

  • Kansai International Airport: Miniature airport with moving planes and busy terminals.
  • Space Center: Detailed recreations of space shuttles and Apollo missions.
  • Global Village: Mix of real-world and fantasy settings with interactive elements.
  • Evangelion Hangar: Reproduction of the hangar where Evangelion units are prepared for launch.
  • Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Area: Based on the Azabu-Juban neighborhood from the manga.

c. Interactive Experiences

  • Press buttons throughout exhibits to trigger surprises and movements
  • Watch scheduled space shuttle and rocket launches in the Space Center
  • Observe day and night cycles in various exhibits

d. How to Get There

  • Take the Yurikamome Line to Ariake Tennis no Mori Station and exit via Exit 1A. It is a 5 minutes walk from the station to the museum.
  • Take the Rinkai Line to Kokusai-Tenjijo Station and exit via Exit A. It is a 12 minutes walk from there to the museum.

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