10 New Changes in Tokyo Tourists Should Know About

Planning a trip to Tokyo? The city has transformed in ways that will make your visit smoother, more exciting, and filled with unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

From easier ways to get around to stunning new attractions and entertainment spots, there’s never been a better time to explore Japan’s capital.

Here’s what’s new and essential to know before you go. 😊

1. teamLab Planets Expansion

a. About the Expansion

• teamLab Planets TOKYO is undergoing a major expansion, opening its doors on January 22, 2025
• The museum is growing 1.5 times larger, giving visitors more space to explore
• Step into over 10 brand-new artworks in fresh, inspiring spaces
• Experience hands-on learning through play and creative discovery
• Enjoy new outdoor areas as part of this exciting renewal

b. New Attractions

• Athletic Forest: Move your body in exciting new ways as you jump, run, and balance through this playful wonderland
• Catching and Collecting Extinct Forest: Pull out your phone and become a digital wildlife explorer – catch virtual animals and build your own collection guide
• Future Park: Team up with other visitors to create ever-changing artworks that come to life through your imagination
• Sketch Factory: Turn your creativity into something special – watch your drawings transform into real souvenirs like badges, T-shirts, and tote bags

c. How to Get There

• By Yurikamome Line: Take the Yurikamome Line to Shin-Toyosu Station. Use Exit 1A, and walk about 2 minutes to teamLab Planets

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Travel

2. Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Expansion

a. About Fantasy Springs

• Fantasy Springs is the newest and biggest addition to Tokyo DisneySea, welcoming you starting June 6, 2024
• You’ll find this eighth “port” nestled between Arabian Coast and Lost River Delta
• This magical new area spans 140,000 square meters, built with an investment of ¥320 billion
• Here, you can step into three beloved Disney worlds: “Frozen”, “Tangled”, and “Peter Pan”
• You’ll discover four exciting rides, three places to eat, a shop, and a beautiful hotel right inside the park

b. New Attractions

i. Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey

• Hop on a boat and sail through Arendelle’s familiar scenes
• Say hello to your favorite friends: Elsa, Anna, and Olaf
• Walk through the charming village and marvel at Elsa’s stunning Ice Palace
• Watch the unforgettable “Let It Go” moment come to life before your eyes

ii. Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival

• Float along on a peaceful boat ride under glowing lanterns
• Look up at Rapunzel’s tower rising from the forest
• Soak in the warm glow and joy of the lantern celebration
• Share special moments with Rapunzel and Flynn Rider

iii. Peter Pan’s Neverland Adventure

• Take a magical 3D trip with your favorite Neverland friends
• Join Peter Pan, Wendy, and Tinker Bell on their adventures
• Peek inside the Lost Kids’ secret hideout
• Feel the thrill of soaring through the skies of Never Land

iv. Fairy Tinker Bell’s Busy Buggies

• Take a fun buggy ride perfect for your little ones in Pixie Hollow
• Join Tinker Bell on her special delivery mission
• Visit four different seasonal spots in the fairy valley
• See how the fairy world changes throughout the year

c. Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel

• Choose between two wonderful stays: Fantasy Chateau or Grand Chateau
• Fantasy Chateau welcomes you with 419 deluxe rooms
• Grand Chateau offers 56 luxury rooms for an extra-special stay
• When you stay here, you get your own special entrance to Tokyo DisneySea through Fantasy Springs

d. Access Fantasy Springs

Since everyone’s excited to visit, there are some special rules for entering Fantasy Springs right now.

i. To visit Fantasy Springs at a specific time, you need:

• Your regular Tokyo DisneySea ticket, and
• Either a free Standby Pass or a paid Disney Premier Access for one of the rides

*You can get these passes through the Tokyo Disney Resort App once you’re in the park

ii. You can also visit Fantasy Springs if:

• You’re staying at the Fantasy Springs Hotel, or
• You’re at any Tokyo Disney Resort hotel with a Disney Vacation Package, which includes the 1-Day Passport: Fantasy Springs Magic ticket

*Important note: The special Fantasy Springs ticket (1-Day Passport: Fantasy Springs Magic) won’t be sold after April 1, 2025. This might mean more visitors will be able to enjoy Fantasy Springs soon!

e. 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: How to Go to Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea (Full Guide)

3. Resumption of Suica and PASMO Sales

a. Suica and PASMO Cards Have Returned!

• Suica and PASMO cards are available for purchase again starting September 1, 2024
• Purchase requires providing your name and contact details (any phone number is acceptable, including international)
• Previous unavailability was due to chip shortages

b. Available IC Card Options

• Regular Suica: Standard card for general use
• Welcome Suica: Designed for visitors staying up to 28 days
• Mobile Suica: Available for iPhone users (English version not yet available for Android)
• PASMO: Similar functionality to Suica, issued by different railway companies

c. Purchase Locations

• JR East stations: Suica cards available
• Tokyo Metro Stations: PASMO cards available
• Airports: Welcome Suica offered at Haneda, Narita, Tokyo Station, Shibuya Station and Shinjuku Station
• JR East Travel Service Centers: Found at major stations
• Ticket Vending Machines: Look for Suica or PASMO logos

d. Using Your IC Card

• Tap card on gate reader for entry
• Valid on most local trains, subways, and buses in major cities (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto)
• Not valid for:
  • Bullet trains (Shinkansen)
  • Limited express trains
  • Highway buses
  • Most airport buses
• Use for purchases at convenience stores and vending machines
• View balance on gate display when tapping
• Recharge at ticket machines, convenience stores, or recharge machines

e. Benefits of IC Cards

• Time-saving: Eliminates need for individual tickets
• Versatility: Compatible across various Japanese transport systems
• Convenience: Simple tap-and-go system
• Shopping Convenience: Cashless payments at stores
• Easy Recharging: Multiple reload locations

f. Important Notes

• Welcome Suica: 28-day validity, non-refundable
• Regular Suica: ¥500 deposit returnable
• Maximum Balance: ¥20,000
• Usable in most major Japanese cities
• Coming Soon: Welcome Suica Mobile app (spring 2025 launch)

Read More: 10 Biggest Mistakes Travelers Make When Visiting Tokyo

4. Tap-and-Go Credit Cards Coming to Train Stations

a. Understanding Tap-and-Go Payment

• What It Is: Simply touch your credit or debit card on train station gates to pay for your journey – similar to using your card at a store.
• Purpose: Simplifies train travel, particularly for Japan visitors. Eliminates the need for special train cards or paper tickets.
• Current Adoption: Major cities including Tokyo and Osaka are implementing this on their train networks.
• Benefits: Reduces time and simplifies travel – eliminates ticket purchase queues.

b. Where and When It’s Being Implemented

• Tokyo: Available on select Tokyo train lines from 2024
• Osaka and Kansai Region
  • Three main railways (Kintetsu, Hankyu, and Hanshin) will implement by late 2024
  • Osaka Monorail began in 2024, Osaka Subway following by March 2025, as reported by The Japan News
• Nankai trains have operated this system since 2021
• Compatible Payment Methods
• Accepted Cards:
  • Visa, JCB, American Express, Diners Club, Discover, and UnionPay
  • Mastercard coming soon
• Digital wallets on phones work when linked to these cards

c. How to Use

• Simply touch your card or phone to the gate’s payment reader
• Ensure your card supports contactless payments and international transactions

d. Limitations

• System isn’t available on all train lines yet – still expanding
• Some local trains still require traditional tickets or IC cards

e. Benefits for Travelers

• No need to purchase separate Suica or Pasmo train cards
• Fast and simple gate access
• Similar to transit systems in Singapore and New York

f. Things to Keep in Mind

• System expansion ongoing, not yet universally available
• Not available on JR trains (including bullet trains) currently
• Verify your card has tap-to-pay capability before traveling to Japan
• Check with your bank regarding international usage fees
• Maintain cash reserves or get a Suica/Pasmo card as alternative where tap-to-pay isn’t available

Read More: Only 3 Best Places to Stay in Tokyo

5. Tokyu Plaza Harajuku Harakado

a. About Tokyu Plaza Harajuku Harakado

• You’ll find this new landmark at the bustling Jingumae intersection in Harajuku, opened on April 17, 2024
• The name “Harakado” is clever – it combines “Hara” from Harajuku with “kado” (meaning “corner” in Japanese) since it sits at a key corner spot
• This 9-floor building is your go-to spot for fashion, culture, and shopping all under one roof
• It’s right across from its sister building, Tokyu Plaza Omotesando (Omokado)
• You can’t miss the eye-catching mirrored glass exterior and the beautiful green rooftop garden that brings nature into the city

b. Facility Overview

• The building is huge – almost 20,000 square meters of space to explore
• You have 75 different shops and spots to discover across nine floors, including a lovely rooftop
• Browse through shops from the basement to the 4th floor
• Grab a bite to eat on the 5th and 6th floors
• Head up to the 7th floor rooftop for drinks at the bar surrounded by a jungle-like setting
• Take a relaxing dip in the public bath (Kosugiyu) in the basement

c. Main Attractions

• Rooftop Terrace (7th Floor): Take in amazing views of Harajuku and Omotesando while relaxing among the greenery
• Harappa (4th Floor): Step into a peaceful nature-inspired space with cool digital art, including the “Bonfire of the Sun” display
• Kosugiyu Harajuku (Basement Level 1): Experience a traditional Japanese bath in a modern setting
• Cover (2nd Floor): Browse through about 3,000 different Japanese magazines in this cozy library space

d. Dining Options

• FAMiRES (5th Floor): Enjoy comfort food like hamburger steak and omurice, created under the guidance of a Michelin-recognized chef
• Talking Gorilla (5th Floor): Stop by this unique stand-up spot designed by famous architect Kengo Kuma for tasty roast chicken and yakitori
• Giolitti’s Gelato (6th Floor): Try real Italian gelato, including special flavors you can only get here like Gianduja and vanilla
• Ippudo (5th Floor): Slurp up some famous Hakata-style pork bone ramen with modern twists
• Maguro Donya Megumi (5th Floor): Watch fresh tuna and other sushi roll by on the conveyor belt, prepared by expert chefs using fish straight from local suppliers

e. How to Get There

• By JR Train: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station. Use the Takeshita Exit; from there, it’s about a 4-minute walk to Tokyu Plaza Harajuku Harakado
• By Tokyo Metro: Take the Chiyoda Line or Fukutoshin Line to Meiji-jingumae Station. Use Exit 4 or 7; from there, it’s about a 1-minute walk to Tokyu Plaza Harajuku Harakado

6. Miyashita Park

a. About Miyashita Park

• You’ll find this unique space right in Shibuya, Tokyo, where a park meets shopping and entertainment
• Opened in 2020 after major redevelopment of the original 1953 park
• You can shop, eat, play sports, or just relax in the green spaces – it’s all here in one spot
• The whole place stretches about 330 meters, with a cool rooftop park sitting above the shops
• They built it with the idea “NO MORE NORMAL”, making it stand out from your typical city spot

b. Shopping and Dining

• You can browse through about 90 different shops, from big-name brands to local treasures
• Hungry? Head to Shibuya Yokocho, where you can try foods from all over Japan at 19 different spots
• When you need a break, grab a coffee at places like Starbucks and take in the atmosphere

c. Rooftop Park and Recreation

• Take a breather on the grass – it’s a peaceful spot right in the middle of the busy city
• Want to get active? Try out the skate park, test your climbing skills on the bouldering wall, or play some beach volleyball

d. Tips for Visitors

• Visit in the evening to see the city lights and enjoy the lively vibe
• Check the weather before you visit – it can get windy up top, so pants are your best choice

e. How to Get There

• By JR Train: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Shibuya Station. Use the Hachiko Exit; from there, it’s about a 7-minute walk to Miyashita Park
• By Tokyo Metro: Take the Ginza Line, Hanzomon Line, or Fukutoshin Line to Shibuya Station. Use Exit B1; from there, it’s about a 3-minute walk to Miyashita Park

Read More: 17 Top Things to Do in Shibuya with My Ideal Itinerary

7. Kudochi Onsen Roppongi

a. About Kudochi Onsen Roppongi

• Your own private hot spring and sauna space in downtown Tokyo
• A new facility that just opened in Roppongi on November 1, 2024
• Run by KUDOCHI, who’s known for their top-quality private saunas
• Experience real Japanese hot springs without leaving the city
• Get the complete package: sauna, cold bath, and genuine onsen in your private room

b. Room Types and Features

• Pick from three room styles: SonDoong, Altamira, and Cenote
• Each room feels like a different cave setting – forest, starry night, or underwater
• Every room comes with your own hot spring bath, sauna, and cold pool
• Perfect for groups up to 8 people
• Set the mood your way – choose your own music, lights, and temperature

c. Onsen Experience

• Sample different famous Japanese hot springs throughout the year
• Hot spring water changes with the seasons:
  • Nasushiobara (Salty, healing mineral waters)
  • Bato (Alkaline skin-beautifying springs)
  • Kinugawa (Gentle, clear river waters)
• Real onsen water brought straight from the source
• Enjoy your bath in private – no rules like in public onsen
• Great for everyone – families, couples, or mixed groups
• Soak in these natural spring waters to boost your circulation, ease sore muscles, and help you feel refreshed in body and mind

d. Sauna and Facilities

• Big saunas where adults can lie down comfortably
• Control your own steam levels in the sauna
• Cold pools you can set to your preferred temperature
• All the essentials provided – towels, bathroom items, hair dryers
• Feel free to bring your own snacks and drinks

e. How to Get There

• By Tokyo Metro: Take the Hibiya Line to Roppongi Station. Use Exit 7 and walk about 5 minutes to reach Kudochi Onsen Roppongi
• By Toei Subway: Take the Oedo Line to Roppongi Station. Use Exit 7 and walk about 5 minutes to reach Kudochi Onsen Roppongi

8. Shinjuku Ninja Live Show

a. Performance Details

• Watch ninja warriors battle over a mystical peace sword in this thrilling 90-minute performance without words
• Led by Olympic ceremony performer Denjiro Tanaka, showcasing his kabuki expertise on stage
• Experience a dynamic blend of Japanese traditions (ninja skills, kabuki, taiko drums) with modern EDM and visual effects
• Story is told through action and movement – no Japanese language needed!

b. Pricing and Booking

• Adult Tickets: ¥8,000
• Children Under 6: Free entry
• Tip: Advance online booking recommended to secure seats

c. Schedule and Venue

• Location: WARP Shinjuku in Kabukicho district
• Show Times: 12:00, 15:00, and 18:00 (each show runs 90 minutes)
• Schedule: Weekday performances only
• Doors: Open 30 minutes before showtime

d. Visitor Information

• Best Experience: 18:00 show offers the most magical atmosphere
• Seating: Arrive 30 minutes early to get good seats
• Bar: Drinks available for purchase at venue

e. How to Get There

• By JR Train: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Shinjuku Station. Use the East Exit and walk 10 minutes to Warp Shinjuku for the Ninja Live Show
• By Tokyo Metro: Take the Marunouchi Line to Shinjuku Station. Use Exit B13 and walk 5 minutes to Warp Shinjuku for the Ninja Live Show

Read More: 17 Best Things to Do in Shinjuku with My Perfect Itinerary

9. Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai

a. About Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai

• You’ll find Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai right next to Toyosu Market, opened in February 2024
• Everything you need is in one place – from dining and shopping to relaxation spots
• Step back in time as you explore this recreation of old Tokyo from the Edo period
• The beautiful wooden buildings and traditional dark tiles create a genuine historical atmosphere

b. Toyosu Edo-mae Market

• Wander through three floors of shopping and dining in this Edo-style marketplace
• Feel like you’re walking through old Tokyo’s streets as you explore the shops and restaurants
• Take a stroll down Toyosu Menuki Odori, where you’ll find many popular food spots
• Treat yourself to fresh sushi, perfectly grilled eel, and other local favorites
• Meet friends at the Toki no Kane bell in Edo-mae Plaza – it’s the perfect landmark
• Makes for a great lunch or dinner stop during your visit

c. Tokyo Toyosu Manyo Club (Onsen)

• At Tokyo Toyosu Manyo Club, enjoy real hot spring water brought in from Hakone and Yugawara.
• Visit any time you like – they’re open 24/7
• Relax in the rooftop foot bath garden while taking in amazing city views
• Choose from different types of baths and stone saunas
• Welcome to visitors with tattoos – cover-up stickers are provided

d. Senkyaku Banrai Foot Bath Garden

• Head up to the 8th floor for this free relaxation spot
• Enjoy beautiful views of Tokyo Bay while you soak your feet
• Drop by between 10 AM and 8 PM
• Perfect way to rest after exploring the market

e. How to Get There

• By Yurikamome Line: Take the Yurikamome Line to Shijo-mae Station. Use the pedestrian deck directly connected to Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai, which is a 4-minute walk from the station

10. Tokyo Metro Launches Free Tourist App

a. About the App

• Tokyo Metro launches “Tokyo Metro for Tourists” – a new free app
• Essential guide for using Tokyo’s metro network
• Created specifically to help international visitors navigate Tokyo

b. General Information

• Available for download from August 30, 2024
• Compatible with iPhone and Android devices
• Free to use (standard data rates apply)
• Available in English, Korean, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Thai, French, and Spanish

c. Main Functions

• User-friendly interface with multilingual home screen
• Comprehensive guide for Tokyo Metro usage, including airport access
• Personalized “See Tokyo” feature for sightseeing suggestions
• Important safety information for confident travel

d. Setup Process

• Download by searching “Tokyo Metro for Tourists” in app stores
• Select your language preference at startup
• Choose from 10 popular destinations including Shinjuku, Asakusa, or Shibuya
• Input your interests (sightseeing, food, shopping)
• Receive customized recommendations based on preferences

e. Available Features

• Airport connection guidance
• Metro map with integrated fare calculator
• Comprehensive Tokyo Metro route and station information

f. Additional Notes

• App exclusively covers Tokyo Metro lines, not all city transport
• Consider using supplementary apps (like Google Maps) for complete city navigation
• JR (Japan Railway) Lines not included

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