Within Tokyo is a multitude of fascinating neighborhoods. Asakusa, Shibuya, Ginza... but many places remain largely unknown to overseas tourists. Here, we ask a few select Tokyo residents, all professionals in the tourist industry, for their suggested “secret spots” in Tokyo. Read on to uncover the charm of the metropolis from a local’s point of view.

Monzen Nakacho

I’m Julien from Belgium. I have been living in Japan since 2006 and am now a French-speaking guide in Tokyo and throughout Japan. I am deeply interested in temples, shrines and Japanese history.

One of my favorite areas is Monzen Nakacho. Monzen-nakacho Station is about 10 minutes from Otemachi Station (next to Tokyo Station) on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line.
The town is home to two important places of worship. One is Fukagawa Fudodo and the other is Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine. Walking through the laneways, you may hear the chanting of sutras and the sound of taiko drums.
The path to Fukagawa Fudodo runs from Exit 1 of Monzen-nakacho Station. Both sides of the lively street are lined with shops showcasing various goods of Japan including Japanese sweets, rice crackers, pickles, and souvenirs. The Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine was built in 1627. This sacred place is said to bestow benefits for victory in competition and success in life. On the west side of Fukagawa Fudodo is a narrow laneway about 50 m long, lined with bars and taverns. Known as "Tatsumi Shindo," the alley is a great place for a drink with yakitori, oden, and other everyday foods, or to go bar hopping. It may seem a little intimidating to enter at first, but muster up the courage, step inside and enjoy friendly conversations with the ordinary people of this city. The Oyokogawa River runs along the south side of Monzen-nakacho Station, and during cherry blossom season, the scenery is spectacular. Far less crowded than other famous cherry blossom spots, a stroll along the river at this time of year is a pleasure I highly recommend.

Minowa

A short walk from the Minowabashi stop brings you to Joyful Minowa Shopping Street. This is a real slice of everyday life, with a variety of shops such as grocery stores and clothing boutiques. It’s fun just to snack on a croquette or some tempura while walking around, or drop by a retro coffee shop. Be sure to check out the Toden Café near the entrance of this shopping street. This lively space is great for original meals, sweets, and catching live performances, and even for staying in their accommodations. Actual railway seats are reused as cafe chairs here, and the space is decorated with various model trains and signboards for a space any train lover is sure to love.
https://www.tramhotel.com/

Around Tokyo Station

I’m Chang from Taiwan. In Tokyo, I work for a media company that produces content about Japan’s attractions for foreign tourists. I love finding new spots and stylish cafes.

I recommend the area around Tokyo Station. You might think this is not a “secret place,” but it changes so rapidly with new things constantly popping up, no matter how many times you go, it’s always fascinating.
Recently I discovered YANMAR TOKYO, a relatively new place that opened this January, directly connected to Tokyo Station and Tokyo Midtown Yaesu, which opened this April. Yanmar is a manufacturer of industrial machinery, including agricultural machinery, and this facility brings out the appeal of rice in a variety of ways, with an interactive gallery and an Italian restaurant specializing in rice-based cuisine. I especially like the SAKEICE Tokyo Shop. Japanese sake is the star ingredient at this specialty ice cream shop, and I could really feel the flavor of Japan’s rice liquor. The stylish design of the store also creates a great modern Japanese atmosphere.
https://www.yanmar.com/jp/yanmar_tokyo/ (Japanese version only) A stroll through the Marunouchi area around Tokyo Station is also a great way to spend the day. Take a break on one of the benches along Naka-dori Street, or stop for a snack and coffee from the kitchen car, chill out and watch the people go by. Various events are often held here as well. After walking along Naka-dori, head to the retail complex KITTE. The rooftop garden here is free to enter, with a wonderful view of the red brick station building and the Shinkansen. After the sun sets and lights go up, the night view here is a beauty you won’t want to miss.
https://marunouchi.jp-kitte.jp/gb/