Walking Tours in Tokyo by iBestTravel

Tokyo is justifiably proud of its world-class public transportation system. However, this amazing city also rewards slowing down and exploring its highlights on foot.

Here’s how to connect multiple Tokyo sights on wonderfully curated walks that showcase different parts of the city, from iconic outdoor attractions to lesser-known discoveries that will delight your inner cultural aficionado.

Asakusa and Sumida

(2.5km; 2.5 hours)

On this walk, immerse yourself in the flavor of Shitamachi (the old Edo-era ‘Low City’), starting at Sensō-ji, the oldest temple in Tokyo, and ending at Skytree, the world’s tallest freestanding radio tower.

With a history of around 1,400 years, Sensō-ji has been the spiritual and cultural lifeblood of Asakusa for centuries. Enter through the landmark Kaminarimon Gate, famous for its enormous lantern, and stroll down Nakamise Dōri, the shop-lined street leading to the temple, sampling traditional snacks from local vendors.

Once you reach the temple, be enchanted by the waft of incense and the vibrant vermillion hues of the temple’s five-story pagoda. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as visitors come to pray.

Next, take a five-minute detour to the Asakusa Engei Hall, a theater for traditional Japanese comedic storytelling, where colorful flags and lanterns adorn the building.

Continuing your journey, head toward Nakamise Street and reach the picturesque Sumida River. For the best views of the golden flame atop Asahi Super Dry Hall, walk to the Azuma-bashi Bridge area, then proceed to Sumida River Walk, providing direct access from Asakusa to Tokyo Skytree.

The Sumida River Walk, open from 7am-10pm, offers one of the most picturesque places to revel in the beauty of the river and enjoy the sunset.

Take a break at Tokyo Mizumachi, a waterfront district ideal for open-air dining. Enjoy a meal along the riverside terrace or grab takeout and relax at Sumida Park.

After your break, it’s just a short walk to the magnificent 634-meter Tokyo Skytree and the Tokyo Solamachi complex.

Marunouchi, Ginza, and Tsukiji

(6.3km; 3-4 hours, excluding optional museum stops)

This urban walking route will lead you to exceptional cultural experiences. Start at the National Museum of Modern Art, situated next to the Imperial Palace.

Within the lush Kita-no-maru Park lies Japan’s first national art museum. The Museum of Modern Art Tokyo comprises about 13,000 artworks, including collections that change regularly.

Begin your trek with a stroll through this artistic haven before circling around the outside of the Imperial Palace. Take photos at Kōkyo Gaien Plaza, capturing the reflection of the Megane-bashi bridge on the moat.

Proceed to the Tokyo International Forum, known for its striking glass architecture, and experience its light-infused atrium. For those interested in art, visit the Mitsubishi Ichigōkan Museum, focusing on late 19th and early 20th-century art pieces, housed in a beautifully reconstructed red-brick building.

Afterward, continue towards Ginza, Tokyo’s premier shopping district featuring luxury boutiques and the elegant Kabukiza Theater. Head over to Tsukiji Outer Market, where you can sample incredible fresh seafood despite the inner wholesale market’s relocation in 2018.

Don’t miss Yamachō for freshly-made tamago-yaki (sweetened rolled egg omelette) on a stick, a delightful treat that will surely keep your spirits high as you explore.

Ueno and Yanesen

(6km, 3 hours)

This stroll will take you through the charming Yanesen area, comprised of Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi neighborhoods, providing a glimpse of Tokyo’s nostalgic past.

Begin your journey along Yanaka Ginza’s historic shopping street filled with local shops and cafes, ideal for a quick snack. Don’t forget to capture a great photo at the Yūyake Dandan stairs before heading to the Asakura Museum of Sculpture.

This museum, showcasing the life’s work of sculptor Fumio Asakura, is also home to Japan’s oldest rooftop garden. Continue south to SCAI The Bathhouse, a contemporary art gallery in a converted public bath.

Venture into Ueno Park, home to the city’s highest concentration of museums, including the renowned Tokyo National Museum. Explore the park and visit Ueno Tōshō-gū, a beautifully adorned Shinto shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Wrap up your walk at Ameyokō shopping street, a bustling market atmosphere filled with vendors offering diverse offerings and a taste of local life.

This journey will lead you to 2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan, featuring approximately 50 artisanal shops, perfect for unique souvenirs. Finally, arrive in the heart of Akihabara, known as Tokyo’s ‘electric town’, a hub for pop culture.

Before exploring, it’s always wise to check the current opening days and times for each attraction due to varying schedules and COVID safety measures.