I am personally on the hunt to learn as many languages as I can. With a bit of Italian, Spanish, and Chinese under my belt, I decided to tackle my next challenge: Japanese.

While learning the Japanese language, I have become very interested in Japanese culture. And as the capital of Japan, it is no surprise that Tokyo is filled with many interesting things to see, do, and eat. So, I have collected the top 10 Tokyo hidden gems awaiting you in the Big Mikan, along with tips and tricks you will need to make your experience the best it can be.

Let’s get started!

1. STREET KART in Shin-Kiba of Koto City

Described as “Real Life SuperHero Go-Karting in Tokyo,” this attraction is certainly one fo the Tokyo hidden gems you can’t miss. With costumes of your favorite characters to rent and a guide leading the way, you and your friends drive on a tour through the streets of Tokyo.

A maximum of 6 drivers is allowed per group, as that’s how many one guide can accommodate. You will need a reservation ahead of time, so be sure to check out their website and/or social media accounts!

2. Harmonica Yokocho in Kichijoji of Musashino City

Harmonica Alley stays true to its origins as a flea market after WWII – it’s been one of the top Tokyo hidden gems since then.

It’s named Harmonica Alley because the rows of restaurants and shops resemble harmonica reeds! Here you will find standing-only bars, a fishmonger who has been trading since the reign of Emperor Shōwa, and traditional sweets to be found along the way.

This, along with many other alleyways we will mention in Tokyo, is a great place to interact with the locals and avoid the tourists. We recommend you get a local guide to help you, as a lot of these places have people who only speak Japanese. To get inside access, get in touch with one of our guides on the ALLMYNE app today!

3. Nakano Broadway in Nakano of Nakano City

Nakano Broadway is a shopping mall in Tokyo where you can find tons of anime, manga, and video games. You can find a multitude of figurines, merchandise, and collectors’ items along the four levels of the complex.

Even if anime isn’t your thing, you can browse the basement level where locals shop for fresh produce, or you can head to the ground level for some good, ole clothes shopping. This center is tucked away and easy to miss in the bustle of Nakano, so keep an eye out for its red storefront amidst all the sights to see!

4. Nakajima Tea House in the Hamarikyu Gardens of Chuo City

You would be remiss to miss out on the Japanese tea experience while in Tokyo. Teas like matcha have been a cornerstone of Japanese society since the early 8th century.

If you’re wondering which Tokyo hidden gems are in order here, there’s no better place to experience the tea culture than at the Nakajima no Ochaya in the Hamarikyu Gardens. The gardens are a sight to see on their own! So, even if tea isn’t your thing, you can prepare yourself to be surrounded by plenty of natural beauty. The teahouse is nestled on a pond and is connected to the land by wooden bridges.

Doesn’t that sound romantic? The tea traditions involve removing your shoes, sitting on traditional tatami mats, and indulging in wagashi alongside a cup of matcha tea.

They even have guided tours in English on some days! With a view of the city amidst the gorgeous gardens and a belly full of Japanese sweets, this will definitely be a great place to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

5. The Garage Department in Kitazawa of Setagaya City

Also known as the Toyo Department Store, this building is filled to the brim with authentic, handcrafted items and vintage clothing. You can say that this stop itself is among the top vintage Tokyo hidden gems.

The 20+ local vendors pack into this building amidst the youth subculture in Tokyo. This is due to Shimokitazawa being a place for thrifting, trendy cafes, and tons of art. This bohemian neighborhood is a must-see for anyone looking for the best souvenirs and the best stories.

6. Tokyo Hidden Gems: Todoroki Ravine Park in Setagaya City

Located right in the middle of Setagaya, the Todoroki Valley Park is a beautiful walking trail along the Yazawa River.

At the end of the trail is Todoroki Fudo, which is a temple dating back to the Heian era. Keep an eye out for the nearby waterfall when you’re there! You will find yourself surrounded by dozens of bamboo groves and wondrous nature in the only valley of the Tokyo Metropolis. This is a great place to visit for those who love enjoying the outdoors.

7. Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory in Daita of Setagaya City

Studio Ghibli aficionados, look no further! Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory is owned by Hayao Miyazaki’s sister-in-law, so she creates the cream puffs in the shape of one of his titular characters, Totoro.

Part baked goods store and part atmospheric café, Shirohige’s stresses that you make a reservation to ensure you get the flavor of cream puff you like, as these are very popular. You can check out their website to see a list of their seasonal flavors, too.

8. Tokyo Ramen Street in Marunouchi of Chiyoda City

Besides tea, Japan is known for its ramen, and that is no exception when it comes to Tokyo. Tokyo Ramen Street brings all of the different types of ramen to one location, making it easily accessible for those who want noodles, broth, and zany toppings. This is truly one of the most delicious Tokyo hidden gems you’ll ever experience!

From Ramen Gyoku and Rokurinsha to Oreshiki Jun and Tokyoeki Ikaruga, Tokyo Ramen Street has options for any type of ramen eater. You truly can’t go wrong when visiting here. Plus, it’s another great way to interact with the locals!

9. Tsutaya Books Daikanyama in Shibuya of Sarugakucho

This bookstore is not only every bookworm’s dream but also an architectural marvel. Built like a tree with book departments branching out from the center, the space includes areas for leisure reading and enjoying Starbucks. On top of this, they have a stationery haven for all your paper and pen needs.

If you’re like me and into letter writing, drawing, or what have you, this is a must-see on your Tokyo hidden gems list!

10. Liberty Akihabara 5 in Sotokanda of Chiyoda City

The coffee movement in Japan is huge, so it’s no surprise that we have a cafe among the best Tokyo hidden gems.

Finally, this building on the outside looks like a retro gaming store, but up on the third floor is what some locals call “the best coffee you will ever have.” With its uncrowded space and comfortable couches, Liberty 5 is a well-kept secret only true locals know about.

It’s so exclusive that not much more is known publicly about the place, so feel free to explore and let us know what you find!

Unlock the Best Tokyo Hidden Gems with a Personalized Itinerary

There are so many other things awaiting you in Tokyo.

The easiest way to find the best Tokyo hidden gems of your own is to use a local guide, someone who knows the lay of the land and the language of the people.

With ALLMYNE, you can get access to dozens of local guides around the world. There’s no time to waste. Create your next adventure abroad with the best of the best, and download the ALLMYNE app today.

Download the ALLMYNE app from the APPLE STORE or GOOGLE PLAY to seamlessly plan, capture, and share your travel journey with a global community of fellow explorers. Upgrade to our PRO subscriber level for even more perks, including audio recording in your journal, AI-powered location suggestions tailored to your interests, unlimited trip locations, and unlimited storage for all your travel memories.

Download the ALLMYNE app now – the ultimate travel companion to enhance every step of your journey!