North Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for North Tokyo, including its famous attractions, best activities, where to stay, what to buy, local culture and customs, safety and health precautions, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to North

North Tokyo is a fascinating travel destination that offers a blend of modern and traditional attractions for all types of travelers. Located in the Kanto region of Japan, North Tokyo is a vast area that consists of several districts, including Itabashi, Adachi, Arakawa, Kita, and Bunkyo. Each district has its unique features, attractions, and things to do.

The destination is known for its efficient transport systems, which make it a breeze to get around the town. You can visit the museums, shrines, cultural sites, natural parks, and many other interesting sites that have made North Tokyo a popular tourist destination in recent times. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for the hundredth time, the destination promises new discoveries and exciting travel experiences.

List of Places to Visit in North

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you want to explore the historical and cultural sites of North Tokyo, the following sites should be on your list:

Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji is one of the most popular and the oldest Buddhist temples in Tokyo. The temple was built in the 7th century and is dedicated to the goddess of mercy - Kannon. The area surrounding the temple is also known as Asakusa and is famous for its traditional food stalls and souvenir shops.

Edo Tokyo Museum

Edo Tokyo Museum is a great place to learn about the history and evolution of Tokyo. The museum displays the city’s development from a small fishing village to a booming metropolis. There are several interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the city’s culture, history, and art.

Tokyo National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum has an extensive collection of artifacts that cover the history of Japan from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum features several exhibits, including Japanese swords, armor, ceramics, and textiles.

Natural Attractions of North: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

North Tokyo is also known for its natural attractions, including parks, gardens, and waterways. The following are some sites to consider when planning a nature escapade:

Ueno Park

Ueno Park is one of the largest and most popular parks in Tokyo that boasts a wide range of attractions for visitors of all ages. The park hosts several museums, temples, and cultural sites, including the Tokyo National Museum and the Ueno Zoo. It is also one of the top places to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo in the spring.

Otonashi Shinsui Park

Otonashi Shinsui Park is a small yet charming park that features a beautiful pond that is home to several colorful koi fishes. The park is ideal for a relaxing stroll, feeding the fish, or having a picnic.

Arakawa Nature Park

Arakawa Nature Park is a unique park that is designed to showcase and preserve the local flora and fauna of Tokyo. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including bird watching, hiking, and cycling.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North

North Tokyo has a plethora of hiking and biking trails that present stunning views and unique experiences. The following are some of North’s top hiking/biking routes:

  • The Arakawa River Greenery route is a scenic route that follows the Arakawa River and is ideal for cycling and jogging.
  • The Tokiwadai Walking Course is a 2.8 km long course that takes hikers through the residential area of Tokiwadai.
  • The Shakujii River Walking and Cycling course is a 6km long path that connects Nerima Ward and Itabashi Ward and is ideal for a leisurely bike ride or hike.

Best Things to Do in North: Activities and Tours

North Tokyo has a wide array of activities and tours for visitors of all ages, interests, and budgets. Some of the top things to do include:

  • Enjoying a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in some of the city’s best tea houses.
  • Exploring the streets of Yanaka, a historic district that is known for its traditional shops and artisanal workshops.
  • Visiting the giant pandas at Ueno Zoo.
  • Joining a walking tour of Asakusa and learning about the history, culture, and tradition of the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for North

Day 1: Asakusa and Senso-ji temple Day 2: Ueno and Tokyo National Museum Day 3: Yanaka and Nezu Shrine Day 4: Otonashi Shinsui Park and other local parks and gardens Day 5: Tokyo Skytree and Soramachi Mall Day 6: Tsukiji Fish Market and Ginza Day 7: Edo-Tokyo Museum and Giant Gundam Statue

Food and Drink Scene of North

North Tokyo is a food lover’s paradise, with numerous local dishes that you have to try. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ramen with thick noodles served in a meaty broth, topped with boiled egg and sliced pork.
  • Sushi, a traditional Japanese dish made of vinegared rice and fresh seafood or vegetables.
  • Monja-yaki, a crispy pancake made of cabbage, seafood, and meat cooked on a hot grill.
  • Tempura, crispy battered seafood or vegetables served with a light sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Sake, a traditional Japanese rice wine.
  • Shochu, a distilled Japanese beverage made from barley, sweet potatoes, or rice.
  • Green Tea, a type of tea that is unique to Japan and is known for its health benefits.

Where to Stay in North: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxurious hotels to affordable hostels, North Tokyo has plenty of options for all types of travelers. Some of the best places to stay include:

  • Hotel Coco Grand Kitasenju, a luxurious hotel that offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • Khaosan Tokyo Origami, a sociable and affordable hostel in a convenient location.
  • K’s House Tokyo Oasis, a stylish guesthouse that offers western-style rooms with tatami mat floors.

What to Buy in North: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique gifts and souvenirs to take back home, North Tokyo is the perfect place to shop. Some of the best products to buy include:

  • Japanese Stationery from Itoya, a stationery store that offers an extensive collection of pens, notebooks, and other writing materials.
  • Traditional Kimonos and Yukata sets from Kimono-ya Sakura, a formal clothing store that specializes in selling traditional Japanese wear.
  • Handmade Ceramics from Saideigama, a pottery store that offers a wide range of high-quality ceramics, from teapots to sake sets.
  • Japanese Snacks and Sweets from Daimasu, a famous snack store that offers a wide range of traditional Japanese sweets and snacks.

Local Culture and Customs of North

North Tokyo has a unique culture and customs that visitors must be aware of to respect the local people and their traditions. Here are some essential cultural norms to keep in mind:

  • Always bow or nod slightly as a sign of respect when greeting someone.
  • Remove your shoes when entering a traditional Japanese house or temple.
  • Always say “arigatou gozaimasu” or “thank you very much” after receiving any service or gift.
  • Always use chopsticks when eating Japanese food, and never pass the food with chopsticks.

Best Time to Visit North

North Tokyo is an all-year-round destination, with each period presenting its unique attractions and experiences. However, the best times to visit North Tokyo are:

  • March to May: Spring Season, when cherry blossoms bloom across the city.
  • September to November: Fall Season, when the weather is mild, and the leaves turn into red and gold colors.
  • December to February: Winter Season, when the city is decorated with lights and decorations, and there are many festivals and events to attend.

Do’s and Don’ts of North

Do:

  • Bow or nod slightly as a sign of respect when greeting someone.
  • Carry cash as most shops and restaurants do not accept cards.
  • Respect and follow local customs and traditions.
  • Try local delicacies and food.

Don’t:

  • Speak loudly or rudely in public places.
  • Smoke in non-smoking areas.
  • Litter or leave trash on the streets.
  • Touch or disturb the wildlife in parks and nature reserves.

Safety and Health

Safety in North

North Tokyo is a safe place to visit, with low crime rates and few instances of violence. However, visitors should take the following measures to ensure their safety:

  • Keep personal belongings safe at all times when in crowded places.
  • Avoid walking alone in dark alleys or deserted streets.
  • Only book reputable hotels and accommodations.

Health in North

North Tokyo has excellent medical facilities, with advanced hospitals and clinics located across the city. Visitors are advised to carry medical insurance and update their vaccinations before traveling to Japan.

Getting to North: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near North

The following airports are the closest to North Tokyo:

  • Narita International Airport (NRT) - located 69km east of North Tokyo
  • Haneda International Airport (HND) - located 23km southeast of North Tokyo

Bus Stations Near North

The following bus stations serve North Tokyo:

  • Tokyo Station (Yaesu South Exit)
  • Kita-Senju Station
  • Ikebukuro Station

Other Options

The following transportation options are available when traveling to and around North Tokyo:

  • Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway Lines
  • JR East Railways and Private Railways
  • Taxis
  • Car rentals

How to Get Around in North

North Tokyo has an efficient transportation system that makes it easy to navigate and get around. The following are some of the best ways to get around:

  • Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway Lines
  • JR East Railways and Private Railways
  • Taxis
  • Buses and Shuttles

Where to Go Next from North: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

North Tokyo is well connected to other destinations within Japan, making it easy to plan trips to other parts of the country. Some of the nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Yokohama: A vibrant city known for its port and Chinatown.
  • Nikko: A historic town famous for its shrines and temples.
  • Mt. Fuji: Japan’s highest mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Conclusion

North Tokyo is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan. From its rich culture and history to its natural attractions and local cuisine, North Tokyo presents an array of exciting travel experiences for all types of travelers. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well equipped to explore and enjoy all that North Tokyo has to offer.

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