Super Cheap Japan: Budget Travel in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hiroshima and Surrounding Areas (Super Cheap Guides Book 1)

4. Shimo-Kitazawa A maze of narrow streets, that look completely unchanged from the 50’s or 60’s. No ugly skyscrapers here.

Institute for Nature Study, National Museum of Nature and Science Need to get back into nature, and quick? This surprisingly unknown forest in the heart of Tokyo is a great spot for an easy woodland walk or a spot of bird watching. A true sanctuary for natural beauty and birdlife, the mixed forest is easy to navigate.

Meiji Jingu Meiji Jingu Shrine (明治神宮) Located next to Yoyogi Park, Meiji

National Museum of Nature and Science (国立科学博物館) Split into a Japan Gallery and a Global Gallery, this museum thankfully has English explanations for large number of exhibits. As well as having standard exhibitions on dinosaurs and nature, visitors can also learn about the history of humans in Japan and the ecologically diverse islands. Definitely r

Koenji, like Shimo-Kitazawa, is a trendy town with many cheap shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. Known as Tokyo’s main counter-culture area,

22nd Jidai Matsuri, Kyoto: Traditional costume procession at Heian Jingu Shrine.

Design Festa Gallery (デザインフェスタギャラリー) A host of small galleries, more than 70 when at full capacity, showing off the latest up-and-coming artists. All sorts of styles, and ever changing exhibitions on display. Design Festa has become a bit of an institution in Harajuku, and makes going to an expensive gallery unnecessary for most. FREE • Times vary

While most visitors just skip ahead to Ghibli Museum, Kichijoji is well worth spending an afternoon in with its blend of local bargains and less crowded tourist spots.

Ueno features one of the biggest parks in Tokyo and is one of the main ‘cities’ within the megalopolis that is Tokyo. There are many museums in the park, and the area is full of brightly lit streets and stores. While it has branches of the main electronic and clothing mega stores, visitors should head to Ameyoko and