Top Free Things to do in Tokyo

Traveling to Japan on a budget but still want to really experience Japan? Say no more, we got you. Japan might seem like an expensive country to travel in, especially Tokyo but there are actually ways for you to travel on a budget. Meiji Jingu Shrine and Senso-ji temple, some of the most popular destinations in Tokyo, guess what? It is also free to enter. Kanda Festival and Sanja Matsuri, some of the matsuri that you must experience when you’re visiting Japan, which is also free. There are many other great places and activities you can do for free in Tokyo. Here is the list of things you can do in Tokyo if you’re traveling on a budget.

Asakusa
Asakusa
Asakusa is visited by more than half of all tourists from foreign countries. You’ll be able to see the Sensoji Temple which is Tokyo’s oldest temple, and also the outer gate called the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate). The street leading from the gate to the inner precinct of the temple is lined with old shops. Many of them offer services in English.
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Meiji Jingu Shrine
Meiji Jingu Shrine
Meiji Shrine is located in the Shibuya district of Tokyo. A large number of visitors from all over Japan come for “hatsumode” or the first shrine visit of the New Year. On the day of your visit, you can catch a glimpse of a traditional wedding ceremony if you’re lucky.
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Ueno Park
Ueno Park
Ueno Park is a park full of culture and art. Popular art presentations and other famous exhibitions are held here. You enjoy the turning of the seasons with the cherry blossoms and the autumn foliage. And you can also tour some important historical buildings.
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Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya is the neighborhood where fashion buildings are built in close distance and advertisements are shown on giant LCD screens. The main intersection has groups of 3000 people crossing simultaneously on the weekends.
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Tokyo Government Building
Tokyo Government Building
Shinjuku is one of the most bustling districts in Tokyo. The view of Shinjuku has changed dramatically with the emergence of skyscrapers. Enjoy the dynamic night view at the free observatories of Shinjuku’s landmark, the Tokyo Government Building.
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Chidori-ga-fuchi
Chidori-ga-fuchi
The moat was built to surround the Edo Castle during the age of the Tokugawa shoguns. Currently, it encircles the Imperial Palace. When the cherry blossoms of Chidori-ga-fuchi bloom, it’s easy to forget you’re in the middle of the city.
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The Imperial Palace East Gardens
The Imperial Palace East Gardens
The Imperial Palace East Gardens is a historical park located to the east of the Imperial Palace. It reminds you Central Park in New York. Although it’s near Tokyo Station, within the grounds of the garden you miraculously cannot hear the bustling metropolis.
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Yasukuni Shrine
Yasukuni Shrine
During the sakura season, the area surrounding Yasukuni Shrine becomes the most beautiful famous place in Tokyo for cherry blossoms. Although there is also the controversy of the war dead enshrined at Yasukuni, the shrine, where you can experience traditional events every season, has plenty of things to see.
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Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park
An urban park that has been loved for years as a daily resting area for Tokyo citizens which holds concerts and many events. If you’re tired of the city’s hustle and bustle, take a break in this huge park.
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Jingu-Gaien Fireworks Festival
Jingu-Gaien Fireworks Festival
Starting from Jingu-Gaien Park, the fireworks festival that takes place from 4 sites is a sight to behold as a collaboration between big-name guests and fireworks. It is famous as one of Tokyo’s Big 3 Fireworks Festivals.
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Sanja Matsuri (Sanja Festival)
Sanja Matsuri (Sanja Festival)
Asakusa’s Sanja Festival boasting 700 years of history. Mikoshi (portable shrines) and floats are pulled through the streets while loud shouts accompany them, and during the festival’s 3 days, 1.5 million people come out to celebrate.
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The Kanda Festival
The Kanda Festival
Peerless in both The Three Great Festivals of Japan and The Three Great Festivals of Edo, the Kanda Festival boasts a 1300-year history. The festival which is the pride of any Edokko (true Tokyoite) not only includes the highlight of mikoshi (portable shrines) but also a parade.
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Yebisu Garden Place
Yebisu Garden Place
While evoking nostalgia from its brick exterior, it has an urban atmosphere. It’s an open space with lots of greenery where you can spend a luxurious time tasting beer that is the pride of Japan.
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