Top 10 Free Attractions in Tokyo

Being able to visit Tokyo is fabulous, but what’s not as fabulous is the price. Some attractions are not the most budget-friendly, but hopefully with this list, you can save some money while still having a great time on vacation!

1. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

For free panoramic views of Tokyo, skip the Tokyo Skytree and head on over to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. These buildings are free to the public, and visitors are welcome to ascend the elevators to the top floor to see the bustling city in all its splendour. There is also a shop on the top floor with various Japanese souvenirs.

If you were hoping to see the sunset or nighttime views of Tokyo, have no fear as the building is open until 9:00 p.m.!

Location:
2 Chome-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-8001

2. Zojoji Temple

Fans of the X-Men Franchise might recognize Zojoji Temple from Wolverine (with Hugh Jackman). Whether you’re a fan of that film or not, it is well worth visiting this particular temple for its simple beauty and the unique jizo statues.

These statues are said to be child deities that represent the souls of “unborn children”. It is very bittersweet as that includes both children yet to be born, and those that died before having a chance to live (stillbirths, miscarriages, etc…). The statues wear red hats and carry windmills, which are items that protect those children’s souls.

Although it is quite sad, there is a melancholic beauty and serenity among those statues. While losing a child is undoubtedly something devastating, the statues do provide hope for future children and healthy births in the future.

This temple is located next to Tokyo Tower, and is easy to get to by metro.

Location:
4-7-35 Shibakoen

3. Harajuku

Although Harajuku is known for shopping, it’s a fun place to visit even if you don’t plan on spending any money. The sheer amounts of people crammed into the small space is interesting to see, and there’s lots of joy in spotting some of the whimsical and unique outfits people curate.

Location:
Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001

4. Imperial Palace

For a dose of cost-free historical tourism and garden viewing, Tokyo’s Imperial Palace is the place to visit. Learn about Tokyo’s ancient and current Imperial Family.

Tours are offered almost everyday, and it is peaceful place to pop to in the middle of the busy city.

Location:
1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111

5. Asakusa + Senso-ji Temple

I adore visiting Asakusa, as I always find Kaminarimon (“The lightning gate”) breathtaking. It’s hard to believe the entire area which encompasses Sensouji Temple is free to visit as there’s so much to see and do.

Visiting this free destination will easily get in your dosage of historical viewing, touristic shopping, and traditional Japanese snacking.

If you’ve ever wanted to try on traditional Japanese Kimonos or Yukata, there is a rental experience in Asakusa called Asakusa Kimono Koto that I highly recommend. It’s quite affordable for what it is, and the people who work at the rental shop take the time to style your hair, as well. There are other kimono rental options in the area that may interest you more, but I have not tried them out personally.

Location:
2-18-9 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku

6. Meiji Shrine

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Location:
1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya

7. Giant Gundam Statue

Fans of the Gundam series will adore seeing the giant Gundam statue located in Odaiba.

As a fan of the series, there’s a real joy in seeing one actually made to scale. It makes you appreciate the much more, and you feel as if you’re a part of the manga/ anime!

Location:
Japan, 〒135-0064 Tokyo, Koto City, Aomi, 1 Chome−1−10

8. Museum of Advertising and Marketing

Japan has a number of unique museums. Of all the ones that are free, I think that the Museum of Advertising and Marketing is the most interesting to see. Japan approaches advertisements very differently compared with other countries (they focus on the feeling that an ad leaves you with). It’s fascinating to see the historical documentation of their marketing strategies, and many of the brands you see are quite recognizable and popular.

It’s also located in Caretta Shiodome, which is known for having many nice restaurants. The money you save going here can contribute to a expensive (but delicious) dinner there!

Although it is quite small, it’s chock full of information. For a rainy day on a shoe-string budget, this is a nice option to visit.

Location:
1-8-2 Higashishimbashi | Caretta Shiodome, Minato 105-7090

9. See the Giant Godzilla and Explore Shinjuku

Godzilla - arguably the most well-known kaiju (literally “strange beast”, but it refers to giant monsters) - was the star of a franchise created by Toho. Nowadays, he can seen looming over Toho’s cinema in Shinjuku.

Take some time to just wander and explore the bustling area (my favourite in all of Tokyo) and see if you can spot Godzilla’s giant head without using google maps to show you where he is!

Location (if you get stuck trying to find him):
〒160-0021, 1 Chome-18-8 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City,

10. Louis Vuitton Espace

Louis Vuitton has a number of free art galleries all around the glove that feature a variety of artists. The space in Tokyo is quite large, and showcases unique art that changes every couple of months.

If you’re looking to view some modern art while saving your yen for other things, pop over to the Louis Vuitton Espace and get lost in some of their collections.

Location:
Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingumae, 5 Chome−5−7-5