Explore Tokyo Like a Local: 5 Hidden Gems You’ll Never Forget

Tokyo is a city bursting with hidden gems outside of what makes up the “top ten” lists you’re likely to come across with a cursory search online. With the yen’s depreciation, Japan’s famous tourist spots are currently overflowing with visitors.

If you’re not a fan of crowds or you are a traveler who is looking to experience the local lifestyle, this blog is for you!  These are places that will give you a larger idea of Tokyo and its denizens. You’ll get the chance to make unique memories that you would otherwise miss.

Here, we’ll introduce some of these Tokyo’s secret places and what them such attractive locales.

Sugamo

If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Tokyo, Sugamo is a must-visit place! This charming area is known for the famous Togenuki Jizo (Koganji Temple), which locals love for its blessings of health. In fact, it is often called the “Harajuku for the Older Generation,” where energetic and healthy seniors enjoy the bustling streets.

Address: 3 Chome-35-2 Sugamo, Toshima City, Tokyo 170-0002, Japan

At Sugamo Jizo-dori Shopping Street, you can indulge in local foods like unique croquettes and Wagashi (Japanese sweets). For more details about what makes Sugamo so special, please check out this blog post.

Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6zsKMZ7qX5npsDwNA

By the way, there is one thing that always surprises foreign travelers in Japan. That is Japanese low English skills. Therefore, considering “Harajuku for the Older Generation”, you should not expect many shops with English menus or English-speaking staff.

But no worries! Arigato Travel offers a fantastic tour, “SUPER SUGAMO LOCAL FOODIE ADVENTURE.”
This tour is a perfect way to explore Sugamo’s history and local cuisine with a professional guide. So don’t miss the chance to join our tour and enjoy a delicious food walk through the amazing streets of Sugamo.

Moreover, another highlight is the Tokyo Toden Tram, the last remaining streetcar in Tokyo. The Toden Arakawa Line runs from Minowabashi Station to Waseda Station (30 stops), covering 12.2 km in about an hour.

The ticket is 170 yen per ride, but for those who want to hop on and off and explore various spots, a Toden One-Day Pass (400 yen) is recommended, which is a super affordable way to explore the City’s Lesser-Known Neighborhoods of Tokyo.

Along the route, you can also enjoy the scenery in different colors depending on the season, including cherry blossoms and roses, right from your window.

When you visit Sugamo, consider taking the Toden Arakawa Line from Minowabashi Station for a beautiful and nostalgic journey.

Taishakuten Sando

The second hidden gem is Shibamata, Katsushika Ward, in the northeastern part of Tokyo. This area is famous for its traditional shopping street, a temple that has been around for over 400 years, and for being the setting of the beloved Japanese film series “Otoko wa Tsurai yo” (It’s Tough Being a Man). Despite being close to the city center, there are fewer tourists and authentic Japanese cultural experiences.

Upon arriving at Shibamata station, you’ll be welcomed by statues of Tora-san and his sister Sakura, who are the main characters of “Otoko wa Tsurai yo.” So, why not take a photo with them? Once you’re done doing that, you should head towards the Taishakuten Sando and stop by the Shibamata Tourist Information Center! The staff speaks English and can provide you with helpful information. Since one of the best ways to enjoy Shibamata is by strolling and eating the local foods, getting yourself a map there would be a good idea.

Address: 7 Chome-1-5 Shibamata, Katsushika City, Tokyo 125-0052, Japan

Afterward, I recommend you visit Shibamata Taishakuten Temple. The delicate sculptures on Taishakudo Hall and Nitenmon Gate are stunning and worth seeing.

Moreover, you can purchase a ticket for a cheap 400 yen to see the sculpture gallery and Japanese garden at the reception. The detailed art and well-maintained garden are definitely a must-see place!

Address: 7 Chome-10-3 Shibamata, Katsushika City, Tokyo 125-0052, Japan

After visiting the temple, please enjoy the Taishakuten Sando where you can explore century-old shops, offering beautiful Japanese culture and foods. Make sure to bring cash just in case as there are many souvenir shops as well.

Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uZSHy8NyE6teBnvx8

Here are some recommended spots on the Taishakuten Sando:

Kameya Honpo

This is an old dango (Japanese dumpling) shop established in 1901 and one of the models for Tora-san’s family’s shop in the film. There are also many other dango shops, so try to find your favorite one! In addition, don’t forget to tag Arigato Travel’s account or use our hashtags #ArigatoTravel on Instagram if you post your food adventures! We look forward to seeing your delicious Japanese gourmet diaries!

Address: 7 Chome-7-9 Shibamata, Katsushika City, Tokyo 125-0052, Japan

Kawachiya

This restaurant has been cherished for over 250 years and specializes in river fish dishes. In the past, eel and carp were commonly caught and served to travelers and temple visitors in the Shibamata area. Even now, you can savor the traditional Unaju (grilled eel on rice)–a special dish in Japan. For more details about Unaju, check out this blog!

Address: 7 Chome-6-16 Shibamata, Katsushika City, Tokyo 125-0052, Japan

Shibamata Haikara Yokocho

On the first floor, you’ll find a reasonably priced and nostalgic Dagashi (Japanese sweets). The retro atmosphere is enjoyable for both kids and adults. Furthermore, you can enter the toy museum for 200 yen, which not only displays old toys from the Showa era but also offers various retro games to play.

Address: 7 Chome-3-12 Shibamata, Katsushika City, Tokyo 125-0052, Japan

Yamamoto-tei

Visit here to enjoy affordable drinks like matcha and coffee, along with Japanese sweets. Here, you will be able to have a drink while taking in a view that ranked 4th in the 2019 “Sukiya Living” American magazine’s Japanese garden rankings.

Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8GptciQmM1TvgeRN9

If you’re tired of the crowds, Shibamata offers a relaxing escape where you can experience a warm community and feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Kameido

The next hidden gem is Kameido, located between Sumida and Edogawa wards. Originally, this area was an island floating in the sea and was called Kamejima (turtle island), because it looked like a turtle.

Kameido Tenjin Shrine, which was founded in 1662, is popular among Japanese people for its seasonal flowers, including plum blossoms, wisteria, and chrysanthemums. The area also retains nostalgic charm with traditional shopping streets full of unique shops such as greengrocers, fishmongers, miso shops, tofu shops, etc. Additionally, Kameido is known for its local cuisine, offering some signature gourmets.

Although there are many delicious foods and sightseeing spots, Kameido also has a quiet side, making it a hidden spot. However, there may be pachinko places and touts in certain areas, so if you get approached by suspicious people, it’s best to ignore them.

Here are some recommended spots in Kameido:

Kameido Tenjin Shrine

This shrine is located a 15-minute walk from Kameido Station, and is famous for “god of learning.” Therefore, often visitors come to pray for academic success and passing exams. Moreover, various events are held throughout the year. Particularly, the best part is the Wisteria Festival in mid to late April.

Address: 3 Chome-6-1 Kameido, Koto City, Tokyo 136-0071, Japan

Funabashiya Kameido Tenjin-mae Main Store

After visiting the Kameido Tenjin Shrine, be sure to stop by Funabashiya. This store is renowned for its Kuzumochi, a type of rice cake that has been enjoyed since 1805 in the Edo period. The Kuzumochi is fermented for 450 days using lactic acid, making it chewy and delicious.

Address: 3 Chome-2-14 Kameido, Koto City, Tokyo 136-0071, Japan

Kameido Masumoto Main Store

Kameido Masumoto was established in 1905 and specializes in Kameido Daikon, a phantom Edo vegetable grown in partnership with selected farmers. They offer original Kameido Daikon dishes, using clams rich in vitamin C. I highly recommend you to indulge in a luxurious local meal here.

Address: 4 Chome-18-9 Kameido, Koto City, Tokyo 136-0071, Japan

Kameido Gyoza

Since 1953, Kameido Gyoza has been serving only fried gyoza. The ordering process is unique, so be prepared before you go! The most vital thing is that each person must have at least two plates (five gyoza per plate). Even if you don’t place an order, freshly cooked gyoza will be served as soon as you sit down. Each plate costs 300 yen, and the gyoza keeps coming until you tell the staff to stop, similar to a wanko soba style. The only other items on the menu are drinks, making the system simple and fun. Please keep in mind that the restaurant is often full, and you may need to wait in line.

Address: 5 Chome-3-3 Kameido, Koto City, Tokyo 136-0071, Japan

Coffee Dojo Samurai

Coffee Dojo Samurai is a perfect cafe for those who love Japanese samurai culture. Samurai tradition is steeped not only in the atmosphere but also in the staff’s hospitality. In the evening, the cafe transforms into a bar, offering cocktails for 700 yen each. You should definitely try this cafe!

Address: サンポービル 2F, 6 Chome-57-22 Kameido, Koto City, Tokyo 136-0071, Japan

Sawai Station

Sawai Station is an unmanned station located about 90 minutes away from the Urban Tokyo area and a hidden gem perfect for sake lovers. Near the station, there is Seiryu Garden Sawanoi-en. Here, you can try local sake from Ozawa Brewery, founded in 1702. Furthermore, while enjoying the views of the Tama River, the combination of homemade tofu dishes and sake will satisfy your trip. Their sake is brewed with the rich spring water of Okutama, which will clear your heart. Also, make sure to try the popular sake manju (sweet sake buns).

Address: 2 Chome-770 Sawai, Ome, Tokyo 198-0172, Japan

If you are confident in your drinking abilities, I recommend that you visit the sake-tasting area. For 300 yen, you can taste one kikizake out of ten types. Refills are 100 yen off, so it’s obviously worth trying!

Address: 2 Chome-770 Sawai, Ome, Tokyo 198-0172, Japan

Since Sawai station is an unmanned station far from the city, trains stop running early. Therefore, plan your trip carefully in advance!

Chikurin Park

Just 30 minutes away from the middle of Tokyo and a 10-minute walk from Higashi-Kurume Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, you will find a peaceful and natural spot that makes you forget you’re still in the hectic city. Chikurin Park is perfect for those who can’t make it to Kyoto’s Arashiyama or want to avoid crowds while taking stunning photos of bamboo groves.

This park also features a natural spring selected as one of “Tokyo’s Top 57 Springs,” which became a fun water playground for children. It’s especially refreshing during the hot summer months. So, don’t miss the opportunity to detox your fatigue at Chikurin Park in Tokyo!

Address: 1 Chome-7 Minamisawa, Higashikurume, Tokyo 203-0023, Japan

These spots are hidden gems in Tokyo that have fewer tourists. However, on account of their being very local areas, you might encounter a bit of a language barrier. Because of this, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Japanese phrases. Additionally, Arigato Travel offers tours with knowledgeable local guides who can help you, making your visit more enjoyable and stress-free. Join one of our tours to fully experience Japan’s culture, history, and food!

Featured Photo Credit: 無料写真素材 東京デート

If you are planning a trip for the spring in Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka for Cherry Blossom season, make sure to book your guide to experience the REAL hanami like a local!