Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto Castle was built between the years 1593 and 1594. It is one of the oldest of the still-standing “gojuu-rokkai” (five roofs, six stories) structures in Japan, and it has been registered as a national treasure.
One of Japan's famous castles. The main keep is really well preserved. Every season brings a different vibe!
Roppongi Hills
This multipurpose commercial complex opened as a Roppongi landmark in 2003. In the middle of Roppongi Hills stands Mori Tower, a 54-story skyscraper office building rising 238 meters from the ground.
There are lots of art pieces on the streets around Roppongi Hills. The most eye-catching is definitely the giant 9-meter-tall spider.
Sunshine City
Sunshine City has been popular for many years as a major spot in Ikebukuro Station’s east exit area. The facility consists of 5 distinct areas: Sunshine 60, Prince Hotel, World Import Mart, Bunka Kaikan, and Specialty Store Alpa. Besides commercial facilities and hotels, the area features a cluster of popular entertainment facilities such as aquariums, planetariums, and NAMJATOWN.
On the 58th and 59th floors, you can enjoy delicious food while taking in views of Tokyo. Such a cool experience!
Shibuya Scramble Intersection
This is a scramble intersection in front of Shibuya Station. Said to be the world’s busiest crosswalk, it has become a famous sight to see in Tokyo. From the pedestrian bridge connecting the JR Yamanote Line and the Keio Inokashira Line, you can view the flurry of people crossing the intersection from above.
People come from all directions and cross at this intersection at the same time. Even though it's super crowded, everyone manages to weave through without pushing or bumping into each other. You can only see something like this in Japan.
Ishii
Ishii is a long-standing wagashi (Japanese sweets) store founded in 1862, back when Tokyo was still known as “Edo.” The building the store is in is over 200 years old, although the specific year of its construction is unknown.
It's really rare to find an old shop in Tokyo these days that still sells traditional Japanese sweets.
GRANSTA TOKYO
GRANSTA TOKYO is JR East’s largest train station mall. The huge open space with the sign “SQUARE ZERO” hosts select sweets shops, cafes, restaurants and general stores, which looks like a town itself.
I recommend the 'Luxury Don' from Uochu. The rice is topped with a generous amount of fresh sea urchin, salmon roe, and more. The ingredients are super fresh, and the sea urchin has no fishy taste at all 🥰