Things to do in Akihabara, Jimbocho, and more

Even if you’re not familiar with the specifics of Tokyo’s 23 wards, chances are you’ve been to Chiyoda, which encompasses some of Tokyo’s most bustling and quaint areas. Chiyoda is home to the Imperial Palace, anime district Akihabara, book district Jimbocho, and Tokyo Station—to name a few.

Chiyoda is like the heart of Tokyo, a microcosm of Tokyo, rich in cultural and historical significance, as well as a plethora of things to see and do, from temples and monuments to ultra-modern, high-tech shopping districts. Here are some of the highlights of the area, including must-see tourist attractions and slightly off-the-beaten-path hidden gems.

Akihabara

Akihabara (aka Electric Town) is a must-see for many visitors to Japan, especially those who are fans of anime, video games or electronics. Akihabara is (with love) otaku central, filled with anime merchandise stores, maid cafes and gaming centers. However, Akihabara isn’t just for those who want to get the latest figures from popular anime. It’s also an area known for electronics and computer-related goods; if you need a camera, phone, home appliance or niche electronic parts, you’ll most likely find them in Electric Town.

Ochanomizu

Ochanomizu is located right next to Akihabara and is perfect for those interested in musical instruments and snow sports. The streets of Ochanomizu are lined with musical instrument shops, snowboard shops, and second-hand stores, and are just a short walk from the station. Ochanomizu is also a famous train photography spot. Many photographers wait patiently on the Hiji Bridge to try to capture the picturesque moment when the train crosses the Kanda River against the backdrop of Tokyo’s iconic skyscrapers – if you time it right, you can see the intersection of three different train lines under the blue sky.

Jimbocho

A short walk from Ochanomizu is another district with plenty of personality, but a more idyllic feel: Jimbocho. A hub for second-hand bookstores and publishing houses in Tokyo, Jimbocho is also beloved for its antique shops and cafes. It’s the perfect destination for an old soul or someone with a penchant for anything retro. Spend a quiet afternoon perusing the rows of bookstores, surrounded by the musky scent of old books, and sipping a refreshing iced coffee in a cafe full of old-school charm.

Nagatacho

Nagatacho It is the political center of Japan and is home to several important government institutions and offices, including the National Diet Building, the Prime Minister’s official residence, and various government ministries and agenciesIt is also famous for its proximity to Hie Shrine, one of Japan’s major shrines, and the Imperial Palace. Nagatacho has enough attractions to keep history buffs excited for a whole day. The Imperial Palace Gardens are also beautiful for plant lovers, and the area around the palace is an ideal 5km run.

In the woods

Located next to the bustling high-end shopping district of Ginza, Yurakucho has a more approachable, relaxed vibe. One of the most interesting attractions in Yurakucho is the lively dining district, known as “Yurakucho-shita” in Japanese. The name refers to its unique location: underneath the elevated train tracks of the JR Yamanote Line. Bustling izakayas and restaurants sprawl out from both sides of the station, taking up nearly all of the open space beneath the nearly 700-meter tracks. Next to this atmospheric dining district, you can find several skyscraper office buildings, shopping malls, and the Tokyo International Forum, a landmark known for its striking architecture that hosts conferences and events throughout the year.

Marunouchi

Marunouchi is probably Tokyo’s most beautiful business district. Sleek skyscrapers dot the area, interspersed with important landmarks like Tokyo Station, the Imperial Palace, and Hibiya Park. Architecture buffs will spend a whole day admiring these buildings, but there’s so much more to do in the area. Marunouchi Nakadori, the main thoroughfare that runs north and south through Marunouchi, is lined with restaurants and designer shops, with plenty of outdoor seating and plenty of trees to provide shade. The iconic red-brick Tokyo Station complex borders the eastern side of the district and is a tourist attraction in itself—the main station is more like a station city, filled with restaurants, shops, and even museums that can be visited during a quick connection or a dedicated afternoon.

For more information about Chiyoda City, please visit its official website.