Location: Ikebukuro
Top Things to do in Ikebukuro
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What to do and see in Ikebukuro, Kanto: The Best Sacred & Religious Sites
Tradition collides with pop culture in Tokyo, where you can reverently wander ancient temples before rocking out at a karaoke bar. Wake up before the sun to catch the lively fish auction at the Tsukiji Market, then refresh with a walk beneath the cherry blossom trees that line the Sumida River. Spend some time in the beautiful East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, then brush up on your Japanese history at the Edo-Tokyo Museum. Don’t forget to eat as much sushi, udon noodles, and wagashi (Japanese sweets) as your belly can handle.
Restaurants in Tokyo
1. St. Mary's Cathedral, Tokyo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 142 reviews
Reviewed By JensTetz - Berlin, Germany
There are so many temples, shrines and pagodas to see in Tokyo – that makes visiting a church sometimes a bit more special (even when you are European). This cathedral is definitely something extraordinary. It's a masterpiece by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange. You can take the metro to Gokokuji Station and then walk about 15 minutes. You will find an iconic modern church which is stunning from the in- and outside. You can visit it free of charge but it's officially not allowed to take photos. If you are in the area you can also visit the Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo Garden which is close to St. Mary's.
2. Gokokuji Temple
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 148 reviews
Reviewed By ries770 - Tokyo Prefecture, Japan
It is very rare to find an original temple from the 17th Century Edo/old Tokyo given the severe earthquakes, air raids from WWII and fires in Tokyo. However, the main hall of this temple dates back to the original built by the then Tokugawa shogun in 1681. You can go into the main hall for free and enjoy the art from this period, Genroku period, famous for the flourishing of Kabuki and Ukiyoe, entertainment for the masses. Gokokuji temple is very quiet and hidden away, in spite of the great and easy access from Gokokuji metro station in front of the temple. Enjoy the tranquility! For more, please refer to "hiddenjapanguide" if interested.
