Tokyo is an amazing city, which is the capital of Japan and teems with energy all the time. The city boasts of high rising buildings, electric signs and the popular districts of Shibuya, Shinjuku among others; Tokyo is considered a city of the now and the then. Although it is always great to visit these famous symbols of the city, there is much more to explore than in these sites. Tokyo’s less obvious sights allow the traveler to get a feel for the real Tokyo, its past, its people and its scenery without the hustle and bustle of the big city.
From small temples in the residential areas to the beautiful streets filled with traditional houses and small shops Tokyo has many secret places that are ideal for those who prefer a slow travel. If you are interested in arts, nature, or you just want to avoid the tourist traps, Tokyo has a lot of hidden gems to offer. These areas give an opportunity to touch the life of the city, away from the noisy tourist zones, which are so popular in Tokyo.
Before going on this one of a kind trip, don’t forget to obtain your Japan visa from Dubai. By having the right papers and documents you will be set to go and dig deeper into the unknown of Tokyo and embrace the cultural experience that is offered. Whether it’s a typical suburban area or a hidden coffee shop or a park somewhere in the outskirts of Tokyo, the city is ready to take you on a ride you’ll never want to forget.
Suggested to Read: What You Need to Know About Japan Visit Visa Requirements
If you are thinking of visiting these off the beaten track places and get a feel of the real Tokyo, then do read on to find out some of the places you should not miss.
1. Yanaka: A Look at the Old Tokyo
Yanaka is one of the most picturesque districts of Tokyo and it presents the visitors the opportunity to see how Tokyo looked like before the construction of new buildings. It has become popular for its preserved traditional commercial streets, beautiful temples and most of all family-owned stores. Stroll around Yanaka Ginza, a historical shopping arcade which offers traditional products ranging from Japanese candies to local souvenirs. The relaxing ambiance of this area is a good contrast to the energetic city life of Tokyo and you will be able to relax.
2. The unknown beaches and parks of Odaiba
Although Odaiba is famous for the steel structure and shopping centers, there are other places that are not as popular but still great for having a quiet time. The Odaiba Seaside Park has a small beach area where you will see the beautiful skyline of Tokyo and the Rainbow Bridge. This park is ideal for a walk in the afternoon or even a picnic since it is very quiet. This place should not be missed as the usual beauty of the place has been enhanced by the replica of the Statue of Liberty.
3. Nezu Shrine: A Serene Escape from theCity
Nezu Shrine is one of the oldest and most popular Shinto shrines in Tokyo placed in Bunkyo. This is a rather small shrine which may be of little interest to tourists, however it has beautiful bright red torii gates and the atmosphere is very calm there. The spacious area is equipped with a stunning Japanese garden that makes it suitable for meditation and resting. It is ideal for the religious aspect of Tokyo where tourists are rarely seen and heard of.
4. Suginami’s Vintage Shops and Cafe
If you’re interested in the more unconventional side of Tokyo then Suginami is the place to go, it’s a district of old shop houses, vintage stores, cafes and independent labels. This pretty corner is a secret’s gold mine for fans of fashion and lovers of exclusive items. For lunch, try some local foods in one of the indie cafes that are numerous in Suginami, the atmosphere of which is truly local.
5. Shimokitazawa: A Hipster’s Paradise
Shimokitazawa is the hipster area where the young people of Tokyo like to hang out. Being more specific, it is associated with the spirit of a hipster, numerous vintage stores, live music scenes, and artisanal food establishments. It may not be as concealed as some of the other places in Tokyo but it definitely provides the visitor with something out of the ordinary. Shimokitazawa’s narrow streets make it easy to get lost in, and that’s how you can find independent bookstores, thrift shops, and underground bars that represent the spirit of Tokyo.
How to Get to Tokyo: Japan Visa from Dubai
To embark on a discovery of the less known areas in Tokyo, the first thing is to get a Japan visa from Dubai. Applying for a Japan tourist visa for UAE residents is fairly easy but you should start early. To obtain the visa, you will be required to present some documents among them being; passport photo, confirmed airline ticket, confirmed booking at a hotel, and proof of sufficient funds. After you have all the documents in place, you can submit your application to the Japanese consulate/embassy in Dubai.
As an added advantage, you can also get a visa through a travel agency that deals with visa services. Once you get your visa and approval, you are ready to explore the culture of Tokyo and find out more about the place.
Conclusion
Tokyo is a city that is in constant transition between the present and the past, the old and the new. There is no doubt that every tourist would like to visit the famous places such as Tokyo Tower or Shibuya Crossing, but it is the offbeat places that would give the tourists an authentic taste of the local flavor. From lush gardens and old temples to contemporary districts and bohemian cafes, Tokyo’s hidden gems are there for those who will look beyond the mainstream. These places make it possible to have a sneak preview of the city, and get to know its culture, history, and even individual tales.
It is about capturing the spirit of Tokyo and doing as the locals do – focusing on the spirit of the place. Regardless of whether you are strolling through the alleys of Yanaka or sunbathing near Copaiba’s hidden beach, you will have a chance to enjoy a quiet and exploration that is difficult in other places for tourists. Every single one of the hidden gems in Tokyo is a special place, so your trip to Japan is going to be extraordinary. Go ahead and venture out to discover the unknown parts of Tokyo and get to know this fantastic city even better.
For your travel to explore some of the less known destinations in Tokyo, it is advisable to obtain your Japan visa from Dubai beforehand. Thanks to your visa, you will be able to begin your unforgettable trip and find out what places and events are worth seeing in Tokyo. Therefore, prepare yourself to walk through Tokyo as the inhabitant and let the unseen parts of the city change you.
