25 Hidden Spots in Tokyo That Many People Don’t Know About: Come See and Taste, No Repeats!

25 Secret Spots in Tokyo: Discover Unique Tourist Attractions, Not the Usual Famous Landmarks. Wondering where to go in Tokyo? We have the answer. Book your flight tickets to Tokyo with Traveloka at the best price.
Traveloka TH
03 Feb 2025 - 14 min read
25 Hidden Spots in Tokyo That Many People Don’t Know About: Come See and Taste, No Repeats!

Tokyo, also known as the capital city of Japan, is a place that people often think of first when talking about this land of the rising sun. It is the largest urban area in the world and one of the most populous cities in the world. The city is vast, both in terms of its size and the number of people living there. Because of this, Tokyo offers a wide variety of tourist attractions to explore. As for restaurants, food, and souvenirs, they are definitely abundant and top-notch.

Anyone who loves Japanese culture, Japanese food, and is interested in Tokyo attractions must not miss visiting Tokyo. Today, Traveloka has gathered some hidden spots in Tokyo that many tourists may not know about. Book your flight tickets to Tokyo and enjoy the trip to your heart's content!

New Tokyo Travel Guide: Explore Like a True Local Japanese

1. Maxell Aqua Park

Maxell Aqua Park

Maxell Aqua Park is an aquarium in Tokyo designed with stunning lighting effects both inside and outside the building. It is decorated with dazzling lights and showcases marine life through beautifully lit fish tanks and animal performances, creating a visually captivating and romantic atmosphere. It's a great place for visitors of all ages, whether you're with family, friends, or a date. The park is a great spot for taking photos with its 3D light displays and enjoying the beauty of aquatic creatures.

2. Omoide Yokocho

Omoide Yokocho

Your Tokyo trip won’t be complete without visiting Omoide Yokocho, also known as Memory Lane, in Shinjuku. This area is filled with renowned Japanese eateries offering local dishes and rare alcoholic beverages. It's one of the hidden gems in Tokyo, especially popular at night. If you visit, it’s recommended to bring a Japanese-speaking friend or use Google Translate if you don’t speak the language.

3. BnA Hotel

BnA Hotel

BnA Hotel is an artist-themed hotel in Tokyo’s vibrant Suginami area. The hotel offers uniquely decorated rooms, each different from the other. It’s a perfect place to experience art and culture while relaxing during your trip. Conveniently located near a train station, it provides easy access to explore Tokyo.

4. Nippori Fabric Town

Nippori Fabric Town

Nippori Fabric Town is a hub for fabric and sewing enthusiasts. With long streets lined with shops, it’s often referred to as the "Phahurat of Tokyo." It’s a great place to explore if you're interested in craftwork, handmade items, or DIY products, and it’s popular with locals for its affordable prices.

5. Hamarikyu Gardens

5. Hamarikyu Gardens

Hamarikyu Gardens is a small public park in the heart of Tokyo, surrounded by towering skyscrapers. The garden features a large river in the center and is famous for its beautiful maple and ginkgo trees in spring and autumn. The park also offers a glimpse into Tokyo's Edo-era history, as it was once used by feudal lords for various activities.

6. Kiyosumi-Shirakawa

Kiyosumi-Shirakawa

For coffee lovers, Kiyosumi-Shirakawa is a must-visit neighborhood filled with famous coffee shops and cafes. If you're looking for high-quality coffee beans or unique drinks, this area has some great recommendations such as Arise Coffee Roasters and Blue Bottle Coffee. It's also home to delicious food spots worth trying.

7. DEK Aoyama Health Restaurant

DEK Aoyama Health Restaurant

DEK Aoyama is a new health-focused restaurant in Tokyo that uses fresh, locally sourced produce from Japanese farmers. The restaurant offers a warm, home-like atmosphere with an Earth-tone decor. The menu features dishes with vegetables, fruits, and ingredients like burrata cheese and ham, offering a healthy yet delicious dining experience.

8. Nezu Shrine

 Nezu Shrine

Nezu Shrine is one of Tokyo's oldest Shinto shrines, a national cultural heritage. Known for its Edo-period architecture, it’s a beautiful and historical place to visit. The shrine is particularly stunning during the spring, with its azalea gardens in full bloom.

9. Zojo-ji

Zojo-ji

Zojo-ji is an important temple in the Jodo sect, located near Tokyo Tower. It features the beautiful, ancient red Sangedatsumon gate built in 1622 and is the burial site for six Tokugawa shoguns, rulers from the Edo period. This temple is full of historical significance and is a must-see for history enthusiasts.

10. The Bellwood

The Bellwood

A must-visit for nightlife in Tokyo, The Bellwood is a special cocktail bar with classic décor in a 1920s coffee shop style. When you first enter, it might seem a bit dark and moody, but as you look around, you'll fall in love with the modern vibe hidden within. One highlight of this bar is the old dial-up phone placed on the counter — definitely worth trying out and taking a photo with! The cocktail to try is the Nikolaschka. If you're looking for a great bar, this is a spot to check out in Tokyo.

11. Jiyugaoka

Jiyugaoka

Jiyugaoka is one of Tokyo's charming neighborhoods. The buildings, décor, shops, and restaurants there all reflect a unique lifestyle. Here, you can experience a special way of life, different from the famous districts like Shinjuku or Shibuya. It’s also one of Tokyo’s hidden gems that many people don’t know about. This area mostly has shops, cafés, and bakeries, so accommodations can be a bit scarce.

12. Yanaka

Yanaka

Yanaka is a neighborhood with many traditional Japanese-style old houses, located in the Kanto region of Tokyo. If you want to see ancient Tokyo, you don’t need to go far—just visit Yanaka to feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The houses here are well-preserved, and people still live in the quiet alleys, surrounded by traditional wooden homes. This area was once an agricultural village and a temple district during the Edo period. There are also old temples such as Tennoji Temple and Nezu Shrine. This is a peaceful place, perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

13. Sumida River

Sumida River

Sumida River is a beautiful and healthy spot in Tokyo, beloved by the locals. The riverside has a long promenade, Sumida Park, and play areas for children. You can walk, watch the sunset, read, picnic, or cycle here. There are also cafes and small shops along the way, making it a great place to relax with a cup of coffee and enjoy the view.

14. Ogouchi Dam

Ogouchi Dam

Ogouchi Dam is the largest dam in Japan and the water source for Tokyo’s water supply. There’s an observation tower on the dam’s ridge offering great views of nature and fresh air. It’s a hidden gem in Tokyo where you can walk, relax, and enjoy the natural surroundings all year round.

15. Koenji Area

Koenji Area

Koenji is the perfect destination for second-hand and vintage lovers. There are many shops selling second-hand clothes and vintage items from the US, Europe, and Japan, including bohemian-style clothes, bags, and branded shoes. It’s a shopper’s paradise, with cheap goods that might just break your bank! If you’re in Tokyo, don’t miss visiting Koenji.

16. Green Bean to Bar Chocolate

Green Bean to Bar Chocolate

Green Bean to Bar Chocolate is a famous chocolate café in Tokyo offering a variety of chocolate-based drinks and desserts. Each menu item is crafted carefully to highlight the differences between types of chocolate. A must-try is the chocolate mixed with sake, a unique offering that you can only find in Japan. Chocolate lovers should definitely check out this Tokyo attraction!

17. Paper Museum

This museum in Tokyo showcases the history of paper, both in Japan and around the world, from production and use to recycling. There are interactive workshops where you can create paper from recycled milk cartons and other fun activities. It’s a great educational place for all ages, especially for children.

18. Showa Kinen Park

A park in Tokyo filled with a variety of flowers to enjoy in every season. The park is lined with beautiful ginkgo and maple trees. Built for the 50th anniversary of Emperor Showa’s reign, this park is grand and perfect for walking, relaxing, cycling, or picnicking. Locals especially love it during spring and autumn for its beautiful atmosphere.

19. Mount Mitake

Located within Tokyo’s metropolitan area, Mount Mitake is part of the Chichibu Tama Kai National Park and is known for its rich natural environment. It’s surrounded by forests and waterfalls, and people often come here to hike and enjoy the autumn foliage. For those looking for an adventurous escape from the city, this is a great spot for outdoor activities.

20. Ooedo Onsen Monogatari

A large theme park onsen in Tokyo that combines the experience of an onsen with an amusement park, allowing visitors to relax and have fun at the same time. It features both indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, totaling 38 different pools to choose from, each offering unique benefits. Additionally, there are arcade games and various entertainment options available, making this Tokyo attraction a true haven for relaxation.

21. Zukan Museum

A magical museum in Tokyo that offers a variety of interactive activities for visitors to enjoy and learn from. The museum creates an immersive experience using advanced interactive technology, such as virtual creature hunts and geography-based explorations. Both children and adults are sure to fall in love with this fascinating Tokyo attraction.

Location: Google Maps

22. Asakusa Hanayashiki

Japan’s oldest amusement park, located in the Asakusa district of Tokyo. Having been in operation since 1853, it continues to be a beloved destination for visitors. With its vintage-themed rides and decorations, the park offers a nostalgic atmosphere. Traveloka highly recommends checking out the haunted house—its long history and eerie ambiance make it a truly spine-chilling experience!

23. Ninja Trick House

A hidden ninja training camp in Tokyo where visitors can learn sword fighting, shuriken throwing, and stealth techniques. It offers a hands-on experience for those who want to immerse themselves in the world of ninjas. If you're curious about ninja secrets and techniques, this is the place to visit. It's recommended to book a session in advance to secure a guided ninja experience.

24. Sumō Museum

Sumō Museum

Located within the Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Arena, this museum showcases the rich history and culture of sumo wrestling in Japan. It features exhibits detailing the origins of sumo and rotating displays of historical sumo artifacts. As sumo is deeply ingrained in Japanese tradition, a visit to this Tokyo attraction is a must, especially for those planning to watch a live sumo match at the nearby arena.

25. Toy Story Hotel

Toy Story Hotel

A whimsical Tokyo destination where every aspect of the hotel is inspired by the world of Toy Story. From decorations to guest rooms, the hotel is filled with beloved characters and toy-themed designs. A stay here will make any Toy Story fan feel like they’ve stepped into the animated world, ensuring a magical and unforgettable experience.

Travel Guidelines for Visitors to Tokyo

To fully enjoy your trip to Tokyo, make sure you have the necessary travel documents and information:

Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of travel.
Visa: Thai citizens with an IC chip passport can enter Japan for up to 15 days without a visa. For stays longer than 15 days, a visa application is required.
Visit Japan Web: This online platform streamlines immigration and customs procedures. As of April 29, 2023, vaccination and RT-PCR test information is no longer required.
Flight and Accommodation: Book round-trip flights and accommodation in advance, as proof of reservations may be requested by immigration officers.

Tokyo Travel Information

Tokyo Overview

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is the most populous city in the country and is considered the largest metropolitan area in the world. Located in the Kanto region, Tokyo shares borders with Chiba, Yamanashi, Kanagawa, and Saitama prefectures. The city consists of 23 special wards and has a population of nearly 40 million people. It is also recognized as one of the four major global cities.

Getting to Tokyo

You can fly directly from Bangkok to Tokyo, with a flight duration of approximately 5-6 hours. Flights depart from Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) and arrive at Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND).

Several airlines operate flights to Tokyo, including Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia X, Japan Airlines, Bangkok Airways, and All Nippon Airways. Check Traveloka for flight prices and airline options.

Getting Around Tokyo

Tokyo has an extensive and well-connected public transportation system, making it easy to travel between attractions. Options include cars, buses, taxis, and trains. However, the most convenient and popular method is using the train system, which is affordable, fast, and efficient for reaching destinations across the city.

Languages Used in Tokyo Attractions

Japanese is the official language spoken throughout Japan. Different regions may have distinct local dialects. In Tokyo, being a major metropolitan city, some staff at tourist attractions, hotels, airports, and government offices may be able to communicate in English. However, Japanese remains the primary language used for communication in most places.

Currency for Spending in Tokyo Attractions

The official currency used in all Tokyo attractions and throughout Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Foreign currencies are generally not accepted for transactions in Japan. However, some stores do accept credit cards from major financial institutions, such as Mastercard and Visa. The exchange rate between Japanese Yen and Thai Baht varies depending on the time of exchange.

Time Zone Information for Traveling in Tokyo

Tokyo follows Japan Standard Time (JST, GMT+9), which is 2 hours ahead of Thailand.

Seasonal Information for Traveling in Tokyo

Visitors can travel to Tokyo based on their preferred season and atmosphere, as each season offers a unique and stunning experience. Japan has four distinct seasons:

Spring (March - May)
Spring is the most popular season for visiting Japan, as it is the time when cherry blossoms bloom. Many people gather to admire the beauty of these flowers. The weather is cool and gradually warms up in preparation for summer.
Summer (June - August)
Summer is the hottest season in Tokyo, with high humidity. However, it is also the time when flowers bloom vibrantly, displaying their bright colors. Additionally, many traditional festivals take place across Japan during this season.
Autumn (September - November)
There may be occasional rainfall, but autumn is another peak travel season due to the breathtaking fall foliage. Leaves change colors from green to yellow, orange, and red before falling. Nature lovers will find this season particularly enchanting.
Winter (December - February)
Winter is the coldest season, with snowfall in many areas. If you wish to see snow in Tokyo, it is advisable to check the weather forecast in advance, as the timing of the first snowfall varies each year.

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Sat, 13 Sep 2025

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In This Article

• New Tokyo Travel Guide: Explore Like a True Local Japanese
• 1. Maxell Aqua Park
• 2. Omoide Yokocho
• 3. BnA Hotel
• 4. Nippori Fabric Town
• 5. Hamarikyu Gardens
• 6. Kiyosumi-Shirakawa
• 7. DEK Aoyama Health Restaurant
• 8. Nezu Shrine
• 9. Zojo-ji
• 10. The Bellwood
• 11. Jiyugaoka
• 12. Yanaka
• 13. Sumida River
• 14. Ogouchi Dam
• 15. Koenji Area
• 16. Green Bean to Bar Chocolate
• 17. Paper Museum
• 18. Showa Kinen Park
• 19. Mount Mitake
• 20. Ooedo Onsen Monogatari
• 21. Zukan Museum
• 22. Asakusa Hanayashiki
• 23. Ninja Trick House
• 24. Sumō Museum
• 25. Toy Story Hotel
• Travel Guidelines for Visitors to Tokyo
• Tokyo Travel Information
• Tokyo Overview
• Getting to Tokyo
• Getting Around Tokyo
• Languages Used in Tokyo Attractions
• Currency for Spending in Tokyo Attractions
• Time Zone Information for Traveling in Tokyo
• Seasonal Information for Traveling in Tokyo

Flights Featured in This Article

Tue, 2 Sep 2025
Peach Airline
Bangkok (BKK) to Tokyo (NRT)
Start from THB 4,412.08
Book Now
Sat, 13 Sep 2025
Thai Lion Air
Bangkok (DMK) to Tokyo (NRT)
Start from THB 4,000.15
Book Now
Wed, 17 Sep 2025
Scoot
Taipei (TPE) to Tokyo (NRT)
Start from THB 2,934.49
Book Now
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