The Best Things to See and Do in Minato, Tokyo

Tokyo Tower was the city’s original skyline landmark. These days, the Tokyo Skytree is taller by leaps and bounds, but Tokyo Tower remains an impressive rendition of France’s Eiffel Tower and a classic symbol of Tokyo. Ascend the tower, and take in the city from one of the observation decks.

Aoyama Cemetery is one of the largest in the city. Visit the graves of literary greats, late politicians, and militants like Nogi Maresuke, who now resides as kami (divine being) at Nogi Shrine.

General Nogi Maresuke and his wife Nogi Shizuko committed suicide on September 13, 1912, choosing to follow their Emperor into death. Nogi Shrine was established in their honor eleven years later, where the couple – now kami – are enshrined.

Nezu Museum in located in the upscale Aoyama neighborhood. The museum focuses on classical and ancient East Asian Art, most of which was once part of a private collection, but the location is equally famous for its beautiful Japanese strolling garden.

Zojo-ji is an important temple of the Pure Land Sect of Buddhism. The temple’s Sangedatsu Gate dates back to 1622 and is considered an Important Cultural Property. It is thought that passing through the “Triple Moksha” gate will free you from greed, hatred, and foolishness.

When Tokyo Midtown was completed over a decade ago, it was the tallest building in Tokyo. This multipurpose complex houses a mall, the Ritz Carlton Tokyo, the Suntory Museum of Art, 21_21 Design Sight, and the outdoor Midtown Garden.

Shiba Park is the largest park in Minato Ward. It’s a perfect place to take a stroll with a view of Tokyo Tower. The park is home to two hotels and several shrines and temples, including Zojo-ji.

Shinbashi is a place to discover pockets of Tokyo’s disappearing Shitamachi (Low Town) culture. It’s also a great place for densha otaku (train geeks) to explore. Check out the bars and izakaya tucked under the railway tracks and the train at Steam Locomotive Square.

Mori Art Museum is a contemporary art museum starting on the 52nd floor of Roppongi Hills’s Mori Tower. Spend an afternoon perusing the exhibits before taking a rest at The Sun and The Moon restaurant and café, where you’ll be treated to views of Roppongi and Tokyo Tower.