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Explore Tokyo's unusual happenings
From the odd to the exciting, Japanese culture serves up interesting experiences for its visitors. A combination of latest trends and traditional culture, there is no better place to experience the eccentricities of Japan than in its capital city. If you're just planning to just visit Mount Fuji and the Japanese shrines, you should consider altering your itinerary to accommodate these unconventional things to do in Tokyo.
Live Tuna Auction
Tsukiji fish market - The world's largest fish market
Have you ever been to a live tuna auction? If not, head over to Tsukiji fish market to see a horde of buyers and sellers haggling in rapid Japanese. It's truly a sight to behold! However, the auction takes place at 5 a.m. and admits only the first 120 people. If you're not an early bird, there are still a collection of sights, smells and tastes in the world's largest wholesale market to overwhelm you.
Fashion Watching at Harajuku
Cosplay in Harajuku district
Every Sunday, hundreds of Japanese teens flock to the colorful district of Harajuku dressed in their most vivid and quirky outfits. Go and witness Japan's Cosplay culture in all its glory. After watching these enthusiastic teens dressed like costume characters, walk down to Yoyogi Park to observe various other subcultures.
Japanese teens dressed as their favorite comic characters
Stay In a Capsule Hotel
Inside a capsule hotel in Tokyo
Interesting Fact
A typical size of a one-bedroom apartment in Tokyo is usually not more than 15 square meters (170 square feet).
Tokyo has a severe lack of space and both houses and hotels are cramped. Sliding doors are used everywhere to save that extra bit of space. It's close to impossible to find a hotel that has large and comfortable rooms. Capsule hotels are known to make maximum use of minimum space. Yes you guessed right, these rent full-length bed-sized capsules for the night!
Observe People Cross at Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya crossing
Did you know?
The famous scene where Scarlet Johansson disappears in the crowd in Sofia Coppola's ‘Lost in Translation' was shot at Shibuya crossing.
You will be astounded at the hordes of people crossing at once when the pedestrian light goes green at Shibuya crossing. The sheer number of people walking in tandem is a stunning sight. Get an aerial vantage point to get the best possible view of this iconic pedestrian crossing.
Watch Sumo Wrestling
Tokyo grand sumo tournament
Trivia
Sumo's train in the morning without breakfast and then eat a calorie packed lunch and dinner, while sleeping throughout the day!
To some, sumo wrestling may not seem like a serious sport. However, it is deep rooted in Japanese culture and very widely watched. If you're lucky you can catch one of the ongoing tournaments. Otherwise, you could visit sumo stables, a place where sumo's live, eat and practice. Watch their morning practice fights and learn about their training regime. Make sure you call in advance to check if visitors are allowed and check visitors' timings.
Go To a Public Bath
Japanese hot spring
Space constraints meant that many Japanese homes couldn't accommodate a bath. This led the Japanese to erect sentos (public baths) and onsens (hot water spring baths) where everyone could bathe communally. These public baths prevalent throughout Japan, are frequented by tourists and locals alike. However, it is a norm to bare all while getting into these baths and you should respect their tradition if you choose to go.
Travelling Advice
Traveling to a foreign country always poses some risks to you and your possessions. Japan is renowned for its cuisine, however, you should be careful as certain ingredient may not agree with your intestines. Carry appropriate medicines with you in case you fall ill, and it is advisable to get comprehensive travel insurance.
Insuring your holiday will give you the benefits of cashless hospitalization and a phone number to contact in case of a medical emergency. Numerous other unfortunate incidents are covered by your travel insurance, and you will not have to worry about the language barrier and bureaucratic procedures during an emergency. Click here in order to get details on travel insurance plans for you and your family.
