Tokyo - Things to do
Trying to find something to do in Tokyo is not that hard a job. Here are a few things that I have done that may trigger an urge to either replicate or do in a slightly different manner.
Walking through Omoide Yokocho & Golden Gai
Location: Shinjuku area of Tokyo (all be it in different locations).
Omoide Yokocho (Piss Alley)
Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) otherwise known as “Piss Alley” or “Drunkard’s Alley” is a small and atmospheric alleyway situated near the west exit of Shinjuku Station. Piss Alley (as it is commonly known) is a nostalgic area filled with tiny eateries, izakayas (Japanese pubs), and yakitori stalls. The name originates from the lack of restroom facilities in the past. The site survived the post-war era and has retained its ambiance, giving visitors a glimpse into Tokyo’s past. The eateries in the alley offer a variety of grilled skewers (yakitori), local dishes, and drinks, providing visitors with an authentic and intimate dining experience. Some stalls have limited seating, often with just a few seats around the grill.
Golden Gai
Golden Gai is a unique nightlife district known for its narrow alleyways and eclectic bars. The area consists of six tiny alleys packed with over 200 small bars, each typically accommodating between 5 to 10 people. The bars in Golden Gai vary widely in theme, décor, and ambiance. Some bars are dedicated to specific interests like jazz, rock music, movie memorabilia, or even niche hobbies. Once known for prostitution and illegal activities, over time it transformed into a haven for artists, writers, and musicians. Visitors are encouraged to respect the establishments’ rules, as some bars may have specific entry requirements, cover charges, or restrictions on photography
Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing, located outside Shibuya Station, is one of Tokyo’s most iconic and bustling intersections. It’s famous for its sheer size and the organised chaos that occurs when pedestrians from all directions converge at the crossing during each traffic light change. Often touted as one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, it has become a symbol of modern Tokyo. Despite the seemingly chaotic flow of pedestrians, the crossing operates efficiently and safely due to the organised traffic system and adherence to rules. If you want to experience the excitement of Tokyo’s city life, take photos or videos, and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere.
Shibuya Crossing (YouTube)
Sumo Wrestling at the Yasukuni-jinja Shrine
This little gem was more about good luck rather than good planning … well in a way. We had originally decided to visit the war museum at the site (which will be featured on the other Tokyo page – places to see) and then keep moving on. To our surprise, we had stumbled on the ceremonial Spring Festival sumo tournament. This is as Japanese as Japan gets for a tourist and for the 8,000 hardened sumo enthusiasts that packed into the Dhoyo. Japan’s national sport can be traced back more than 1,500 years and to think that that you witnessed the equivalent of a nano second of that period, it is kind of special.
American Football in Japan - Tokyo Dome
Whatever the name of the event, watching something uniquely American in an indoor stadium in Tokyo is an experience to be embraced. Every year on January 3rd, the Rice Bowl is held to determine the premier American football team in Japan. Not unlike watching a baseball game in Japan (see the Osaka page), this is US culture presented with a distinct twist. The crowd is split, according to your team allegiance, on either side of the stadium. This particular night, we found ourselves supporting the Fujitsu Frontiers from Kawasaki (hence the red bibs and paper fans) who took on the Obic Seagulls from Chiba (in blue). Luck would have it that the Frontiers would run out winners, 28-26. Chalk up another victory to the Frontiers and to the two Australian tourists who had little idea of what was going on (but had a ball).
'If you go to Tokyo, I think it becomes very obvious that there's this almost seamless mixture of popular culture and Japanese traditional culture.'
Kazuo Ishiguro (novelist)