Tokyo, often cited as one of the world's most expensive cities, surprisingly offers many experiences that won’t cost you a yen. Whether it's breathtaking city views or immersive cultural exhibits, the city has opportunities to enjoy without opening your wallet. Here are 11 free things to do in Tokyo in 2024.
11 Free Things to Do in Tokyo
1. Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
Start your Tokyo adventure at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center. Designed by the renowned Kengo Kuma, this architectural marvel is a hub of helpful resources and a prime spot for viewing the iconic Sensoji Temple from its rooftop observation deck. Open until late, it's the perfect place to enjoy the temple illuminated against the night sky.
@kmdtto | Instagram | Start your Tokyo adventure at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center.
2. Carrot Tower
For a unique panoramic view of Tokyo, head to the Carrot Tower. Named for its distinctive orange façade, the tower's 26th-floor observation deck offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle. With comfortable seating and potential glimpses of Mount Fuji on clear days, it’s a relaxing spot to take in the broader cityscape.
3. Hotel New Otani Landscape Garden
Explore the historic Hotel New Otani Tokyo’s landscape garden, a lush retreat that’s open to the public. With its classic Japanese garden elements like a vermilion bridge and a tranquil waterfall, this 400-year-old garden provides a picturesque escape right in the city's heart.
4. Tower Hall Funabori
Experience Tokyo from above at Tower Hall Funabori’s observation deck. Located in the traditional Edogawa district, the deck offers sweeping views of the area, including the distant Tokyo Skytree and Mt. Tsukuba. It’s an excellent spot for a less crowded yet equally impressive aerial view of the city.
5. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Visiting the twin towers of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building provides another fantastic, free viewing opportunity. Each tower has an observatory on the 45th floor where visitors can soak in the vastness of Tokyo’s skyline. The South Tower is especially notable for its unique piano, inviting visitors to play a tune high above the city.
@keioplazahotel | Instagram | Visiting the twin towers of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building provides fantastic free viewing opportunities.
6. Intermediatheque
If you’re fascinated by the intersection of culture, history, and science, Intermediatheque is a must-visit. This museum inside the Kitte shopping mall showcases an eclectic collection ranging from natural history specimens to cultural artifacts, all housed in an atmospherically lit setting reminiscent of a magical library.
7. Tokiwaso Manga Museum
Manga enthusiasts will delight in the Tokiwaso Manga Museum. This replica of a historic manga artists' residence offers a glimpse into the lives of legendary creators like Osamu Tezuka. It’s a tribute to the formative years of some of Japan’s most famous manga artists, presented in an intimate and engaging setting.
8. Scai The Bathhouse
For contemporary art lovers, Scai The Bathhouse in the quiet Yanaka neighborhood offers a tranquil venue with a twist. This former sento, or public bathhouse, now hosts art exhibitions from both Japanese and international artists, transforming a traditional space into a modern cultural experience.
9. 3331 Arts Chiyoda
Transformed from a junior high school into a vibrant arts center, 3331 Arts Chiyoda offers a unique gallery experience. Each classroom-turned-gallery showcases different creative expressions, allowing visitors to engage directly with artists and their work in a laid-back, educational setting.
10. Complex665
In Roppongi, Complex665 stands out with its modern spiral motif and houses three major galleries. This artistic hub offers diverse exhibitions, from massive paintings to life-size sculptures, providing art lovers with a spacious environment to appreciate contemporary works.
@takaishiigallery | Instagram | In Roppongi, Complex665 stands out with its modern spiral motif and houses three major galleries.
11. Design Festa Gallery
Finally, the Design Festa Gallery, a permanent venue of the biannual Design Festa event, invites visitors to explore its 71 exhibition rooms. Here, artists display and sell their work without commission, ensuring a constantly refreshing lineup of creative endeavors, all complemented by an onsite bar and café adorned with art.
The wealth of free activities in Tokyo ensures that your visit can be as affordable as it is memorable. From serene gardens to bustling galleries, the city offers experiences that cater to every interest without spending a single yen. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking to explore, Tokyo’s free offerings provide a deep dive into the city’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.
