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The San Agustin Church is a Baroque church located in Intramuros, Manila, Philippines. It is 416 years old, and one of the four Baroque Churches of the Philippines inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It is the only church that survived the near complete destruction of Intramuros in World War 2. In this blog post , we will take you on a virtual tour of this beautiful church, give you the lowdown on its fascinating history of endurance, share some facts, and give you all the information you need to know before you go. In This Post... ● Our Highlights ● The History ● Interesting Facts ● What Is Intramuros? ● Opening Times See More... ● How to Get There ● Where to Stay ● Places to Visit Nearby ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Rating ● FAQ Travel Resources ● Get Travel Insurance ● Book Transport ● Interactive Map ● Closer Lives Travel Hub Our San Agustin Church Highlights We had the true pleasure of visiting this beautiful Roman Catholic church as part of our tour of Intramuros . Having traveled much of Eastern Europe and South Asia in our past year, predominantly Islamic countries, this was the first church we have been to in some time. And what an amazing church it is. The intricately carved facade of San Agustin Church showcases its historic baroque architecture, featuring detailed stone columns and ornate wooden doors. Before visiting, we already knew of its moniker as being the oldest church in the Philippines, but the more we looked into it, the more amazing its history becomes. Not just the oldest, it also holds a strength that goes far beyond age; it has emerged as the only structure to survive the total destruction of Intramuros on no less than two occasions. The first was through a devastating earthquake, and the second was the terror of war that led to Manila becoming the second most destroyed city of World War Two. Both times this was the only building left standing. The interior of San Agustin Church showcases its ornate ceiling, grand chandeliers, and intricate architectural details, with visitors seated on pews and a red carpet leading to the altar. As if that was not enough to give us pause for thought, the intricate and ornate design of the church is striking. Elaborate carvings, paintings, and sculptures adorn the church's walls and ceilings, rightfully earning it UNESCO World Heritage status. The church also features a grand pipe organ and impressive religious artifacts that captivated us in every way. It was so peaceful here, and it is a special place that holds so much importance to the Philippines, as it does to us for being able to share our energy with it. Regardless of religious beliefs, buildings and sites like this have been hubs of human activity for centuries for a reason. We felt that here for sure, and it definitely left an impression on us. Jenn reflects in front of an adorned altar at San Agustin Church, surrounded by intricate decorations and lit candles. There is also a museum here, which we did not have time to visit, that displays a large collection of Spanish-era artifacts, paintings, church ornaments, and statues. When we return to Intramuros we may well check this out! Half a Century of History at San Agustin Church San Agustin Church is the oldest, and one of the most historically significant, churches in the country. Its history is closely tied to the Spanish colonial period and the spread of Christianity in the Philippines. The current structure is the third to have been built on the site. Officially known as the "Church of Saint Augustine," it was founded in 1571, making it one of the earliest churches built in the Philippines after the arrival of Spanish colonizers led by Miguel López de Legazpi. Originally made from wood and nipa, it was destroyed twice by fires. A decision was made to build it from stone, and that began in 1586, although it took over 18 years to complete due to a lack of funds, materials, and stonemasons. Exterior view of San Agustin Church, showcasing its historic stone facade with intricate wooden doors and traditional barred windows, highlighting the timeless architectural beauty amidst modern urban features like overhead cables. The church's design is a fine example of the Baroque architectural style and was designed by Juan Macias, who sadly passed away before its completion in 1607. It was actually named the Church of St Paul of Manila. It also had two bell towers, although the left tower was eventually removed due to significant earthquake damage in 1880. A historic photograph of San Agustin Church, showcasing its prominent facade with visible cracks and signs of structural damage, highlights the resilience of this architectural landmark. Over the centuries, San Agustin Church faced challenges, including earthquakes and fires. Notably, a massive earthquake in 1645 heavily damaged the church. However, it was rebuilt and further expanded. Eight earthquakes, three wars, and several fires have been thrown at it, yet it never yielded to these forces. Famously, in 1863 a major earthquake destroyed most of Manila , yet this church was the only building left undamaged. It served as a hospital at that time, and in 1898, was the site where Spanish Governor-General Fermin Jaudenes prepared the terms for the surrender of Manila to the United States of America. More recently, during the Second World War, San Agustin Church was used as a concentration camp during the Japanese occupation, and also as a gun post. In the final days of the Battle of Manila, many residents and clergymen of the church were killed there. Remarkably, like the earthquake of 1863, it was the only one among the seven churches of Intramuros to survive the complete leveling of the city by the American and Filipino forces in 1945. The ornate interior of San Agustin Church showcases its intricate ceiling, grand chandelier, and richly decorated altar, with a red carpet leading through the elegant architecture. San Agustin Church has played a significant role in Filipino history, serving as the backdrop for important events such as royal and religious ceremonies. The church contains the tombs of several influential people, like Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Juan de Salcedo, and houses the image of the Lady of Consolation, which was crowned by Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jaime Sin in 2000. Due to its historical and cultural importance, San Agustin Church was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 as part of the "Baroque Churches of the Philippines." This designation acknowledges the church's role in the cultural heritage of the Philippines and its architectural significance. The history of San Agustin Church reflects the intertwined narratives of religion, culture, architecture, and colonialism in the Philippines. It stands as a symbol of resilience and continuity, showcasing the enduring impact of the past on the present. Ten Interesting Facts About San Agustin Church 1. It is the oldest stone church in the Philippines. 2. It was built by the Augustinian friars in 1586 and completed in 1607. 3. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 4. The church was built in the Spanish-Mexican baroque style and has a 14-sided dome, which is the oldest in the Philippines. 5. The church has a pipe organ that was installed in 1811. 6. The church has a museum that houses religious artifacts and artworks. 7. The church was damaged during the Battle of Manila in 1945, but it was restored in the 1950s. 8. The church is dedicated to Saint Augustine of Hippo, a 4th-century theologian and philosopher. 9. The church's bell tower is 60 meters tall. 10. The church receives an average of 1 million visitors per year. This number can go up to 2 million during peak seasons, such as Holy Week and Christmas. What Is Intramuros? Intramuros , which translates to "within the walls" in Spanish, is a historic area located in the center of Manila, Philippines. It was established in 1571 by the Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi. Constructed as a defensive stronghold, Intramuros was encircled by large stone walls and moats designed to shield Spanish settlers from attacks by local indigenous groups and other foreign forces. The walls of Intramuros stood as a physical barrier between the Spanish elite and the outside world. A visitor explores the ancient stone walls of Intramuros, where historical architecture meets the lush overgrowth of time. Intramuros emerged as the political, religious, and economic nucleus of Manila during the Spanish colonial era. The district's architecture showcases a blend of Spanish colonial and Asian influences, featuring elegant facades, intricate carvings, and cobblestone streets. The district was laid out in a grid pattern, typical of Spanish colonial town planning, with the central plaza, Plaza Mayor (now known as Plaza de Roma), serving as the focal point. Key structures like the Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church underline its role as a religious and cultural hub. Aerial view of the destroyed cityscape of Intramuros, Manila, captured after the devastation of World War II, highlighting the extensive ruins and desolation. Intramuros endured the seven-year war between Spain and Britain in 1762 but suffered significant destruction during World War II. The area faced extensive bombing by American forces after Japan invaded and occupied the city. Much of the original architecture and structures were either destroyed or damaged during this time, not only due to the bombings but also as a result of the 'scorched earth' tactics employed by the retreating Japanese army. Intramuros was nearly entirely devastated, and as a result, Manila became the second most destroyed city in World War II, following Warsaw, Poland. A horse-drawn kalesa stands on a rainy street in Intramuros, Manila, capturing the charm and historic essence of the walled city. Following the end of the war and the declaration of Philippine independence from the U.S. in 1946, efforts have been undertaken to preserve and restore the historical heritage of Intramuros. Although much of the original city has been lost, Intramuros remains a treasured site, drawing tourists eager to explore the Philippines' colonial history. It provides a unique window into the nation's past through its museums, cultural sites, and landmarks. As a living testament to the Philippines' history, Intramuros represents the country's resilience and offers a tangible link to its struggle for freedom from foreign domination. San Agustin Church Opening Times The San Agustin Church is open to the public for both religious services and sightseeing. Visitors can explore its interior, learn about its history, and appreciate its artistic and architectural elements. The San Agustin Church is open to the public from 8 am to 5 pm, Tuesday to Sunday . There are no entrance fees, but donations are welcome. ⪢ San Agustin Church Manila Mass Schedule ● Monday to Friday: 6:30 am, 7:00 am, 5:30 pm ● Saturday: 7:00 am, 5:30 pm (anticipated mass) ● Sunday: 8:00 am (children’s mass), 10:00 am, 6:00 pm How to Get to San Agustin Church To get to San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila, Philippines, you have a few transportation options depending on your starting point. Here's how to get there using different modes of transportation: By Public Transportation (Jeepney, LRT, and Walking) ● If you're in a different part of Metro Manila, you can take the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 1 and get off at Central Terminal Station. ● From the station, you can take a jeepney with a route that goes to Intramuros or San Agustin Church. You can ask locals or the jeepney driver for assistance. ● If you're comfortable with walking, you can explore Intramuros on foot from the entrance gate near Central Terminal Station. San Agustin Church is one of the prominent landmarks inside Intramuros and is easily accessible on foot. By Taxi or Grab Taxis, or Grab, are readily available in Metro Manila. You can simply input "San Agustin Church, Intramuros" as your destination in the app, and the driver should take you directly to the church. Remember that traffic conditions in Manila can vary, so it's a good idea to plan ahead and consider the time of day when traveling to avoid any potential delays. By Walking If you're in the general vicinity of Intramuros or if you're exploring the area, you can consider walking to San Agustin Church. Intramuros is a historic walled area, and you can find signs and directions leading to San Agustin Church. ⪢ By Guided Tour Many tour operators offer guided tours of Intramuros , which often include a visit to San Agustin Church. Joining a guided tour can be a convenient way to learn about the history of the area and the church while ensuring you won't get lost. ⪢ Contact Information for San Augustin Church ● Address: General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila ● Contact: +63 (02) 8527 2746 Where to Stay in Manila Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Manila hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Other Places to Visit Nearby There are many places to check out in Intramuros, but here are a few within walking distance from Manila Cathedral that we recommend you check out: San Agustin Church Manila Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, is a historic minor basilica and an important place of worship. It has been rebuilt seven times, overcoming several wars and earthquakes. Casa Manila Casa Manila is a museum that was built in 1980, showcasing the lifestyle of a wealthy Filipino family during the Spanish colonial period. It is a fascinating tour back in time here, with original features and furnishings. Fort Santiago Fort Santiago was built by the Spanish in 1571 and served as the HQ of the colonial government. Also used as a prison, it's where José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, was held before his execution in 1896. Barbara’s Restaurant Step back in time at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant in Manila’s famous walled city of Intramuros. A must-visit for great food, music, and culture. A wonderful way to immerse yourself in the incredible history and tradition of the Philippines. Watch Us Explore Intramuros on YouTube This video takes you on a journey through both luxury and local attractions as we wander around the city of Intramuros. Regardless of the weather, we made the most of our day! We visit popular tourist destinations like the Plaza San Luis Complex, home to Barbara's Heritage Restaurant, The Royal Cafe, and the Casa Manila Living Museum. Next, we explore San Agustin Church, Manila Cathedral, and Fort Santiago, all while soaking in the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of Manila that we've grown to cherish. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Experience Rating: San Agustin Church The San Agustin Church remains an active place of worship and is rightfully a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Christianity in the Philippines and the colonial history that shaped the nation. Its story of survival, in the face of so much adversity, was enough alone to give us goosebumps as we walked inside. Coupled with its wonderful architectural beauty, this church left a profound impression on us that we will never forget. FAQ: Visiting San Agustin Church in Manila Why is San Agustin Church so famous? San Agustin Church is the oldest stone church in the Philippines, completed in 1607. It has withstood wars, earthquakes, and centuries of change, and remains a symbol of the Spanish colonial era in Manila. Where is it located? Is it a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Can tourists enter the church? What makes the church architecturally unique? What are the opening hours? Are weddings and events held here? How long should I plan for a visit? Is there a dress code? What’s nearby that I should also visit? Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing For peace of mind abroad, we recommend travel insurance. SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies, with options for adventure sports and electronics theft. SafetyWing's Complete Plan  offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits. Book Transport Taxis, Trains, Planes, Buses & Ferries in Advance Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless transport booking experience. With booking.closerlives.com , compare prices and schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Interactive Map Philippines Check out all of the places we visited in the Philippines courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap a number for more information, including our blog posts and links to reviews. Wanderlog  is a free travel planning app where you can create itineraries, organize flights, hotels, and car reservations, view places to visit, and collaborate with friends. Closer Lives Travel Hub Destinations, Tips & Essentials Head over to our Travel Hub – it’s packed with free country guides, helpful travel blogs, videos from the road, and tips to help you travel smarter (and cheaper!). Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already out exploring, we've got resources to help you every step of the way. Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

The Manila Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, is a historic and significant minor basilica located within the ancient walled city of Intramuros in Manila, Philippines. It has been the site of significant religious events, including papal visits, canonizations, and large-scale liturgical celebrations. The Manila Cathedral is the premier basilica of the Philippines and serves as the "Mother of all Churches", dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary as the Patroness of the country. It is the cathedral church of the Archdiocese of Manila . In this blog post , we will take you on a virtual tour of Manila Cathedral, delving into its incredible history spanning almost half a century, and its epic tale of survival and endurance in the face of adversity. In This Post... ● Our Highlights ● The History ● Interesting Facts ● What is Intramuros? ● Opening Times See More... Travel Resources Our Manila Cathedral Highlights While we always had Manila Cathedral on our list of places to visit, our desire to get here was exacerbated by the fact it started to pour with rain! We had just finished a wonderful meal at Barbara's Heritage Restaurant when the 'heavens' opened. We decided to make a run for it as it was only a few minutes walk away, and the cathedral was a welcome refuge when we finally made it. We did not know what to expect, having added it to our list but not completed much research before our visit. As we rushed in from the rain, we did not have much time to truly appreciate the outside of the cathedral, although we did when we left, of course. That being said, we were immediately captured by the size and beauty of it, in particular the large pillars and domed ceilings. The Manila Cathedral showcases a blend of architectural styles, primarily reflecting Spanish Renaissance and Neo-Romanesque influences. The façade features intricate carvings and reliefs depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary. The central nave is flanked by side aisles, with a transept crossing forming the shape of a Latin cross. The interior is adorned with ornate details, stained glass windows, and religious artwork. It is really beautiful inside, and we took a long moment of pause to really embrace and appreciate it. This cathedral is known for its twin bell towers, which stand on both sides of the façade. These bell towers have become iconic symbols of the cathedral and Intramuros. They were initially constructed in the 19th century and have been rebuilt and restored over the years. When outside observing them, Leon encountered a tour guide who explained that the cathedral had been rebuilt seven times. Seven times! This was the first we had heard about this, which of course as history lovers spurned our desire to learn more. One of the enduring things the guide said was, 'It was not the British, the Japanese, or the Americans that damaged our cathedral. It was war'. This was a really poignant moment and one that neither of us will forget. More about the history in the next section! Another highlight for us was learning about what a 'minor basilica' is. We knew what a basilica was, but assumed that the minor literally just meant 'small'. However, it has a far greater significance. Pope John Paul II, now a canonized Saint, raised the Manila Cathedral to the dignity of a Basilica (motu proprio) on April 27, 1981. A Minor Basilica is a Church of historical and architectural value which has "particular importance for the liturgical and pastoral life" of some place. In essence, it is the Pope's Church in some place around the world. We are really grateful to have been able to visit and enjoy this special, holy place. It was an important visit for our energy, hearts, and learning. Overall it was a major highlight of our trip to Intramuros in general and we certainly felt a stronger connection to Manila, and our Christian roots, through being here. The Incredible History of Manila Cathedral The original Manila Cathedral was established in 1571 but underwent several rebuilds and renovations due to natural disasters, fires, and wars. The current structure, the seventh one to stand on the same site, was consecrated in 1958. The first cathedral was a simple thatched-roof structure, but it was destroyed by a fire in 1583. The second cathedral was built in 1591, but it was also destroyed by fire in 1645. The third cathedral was built in 1614, and it survived for over 200 years. However, it was damaged by an earthquake in 1863 and was eventually demolished in 1879. The fourth cathedral was built in 1879, but it was damaged by another earthquake in 1880. The fifth cathedral was built in 1760, and it survived until 1852 when it was demolished to make way for the sixth cathedral. The sixth cathedral was built in 1858, but it too was destroyed by fire in 1945 during the Battle of Manila. The present Manila Cathedral is the seventh cathedral and took four years to build, its completion coming in 1958. It is a neo-Romanesque structure with a capacity of 5,000 people. It is the final resting place of many of the former prelates of the Archdiocese of Manila, including Cardinal Jaime Sin. It was also the venue for the requiem mass for former President Corazon Aquino. The current cathedral has also hosted several papal visits. Pope Paul VI was the first in 1970, and Pope John Paul II celebrated Mass at the cathedral during his visits to the Philippines in 1981 and 1995. The current cathedral has undergone multiple restoration and renovation projects over the years to preserve its historical and architectural significance. One of the most extensive renovations took place in preparation for the Philippines' hosting of the 2015 Papal visit, where Pope Francis celebrated Mass at the cathedral. Manila Cathedral is a significant landmark that has been witness to many important events in the Philippines' history, including the Spanish colonization, the Philippine Revolution, and the Second World War. It also hosted a major gathering after the Philippine Declaration of Independence (from Spain) in 1898. ⪢ Key Historical Events that Took Place in the Manila Cathedral ● The first baptism of a Filipino in Manila was held in the cathedral in 1571. ● Baptism of Rajah Matanda, the last chief of Tondo, in 1571. ● Coronation of King Philip II of Spain as the King of the Philippines in 1574. ● Coronation of Felipe II of Spain as King of Spain and the Philippines in 1580. ● The cathedral was used as a hospital during the cholera epidemic of 1882. ● Signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1898, which ended the Spanish-American War and ceded the Philippines to the United States. ● Proclamation of the Philippine Republic in 1899. ● Funeral of former President Manuel L. Quezon in 1944. ● The cathedral was the site of the beatification of San Lorenzo Ruiz in 1981, then his subsequent coronation as the first Filipino saint, Lorenzo Ruiz, in 1987. ● The requiem mass for former President Corazon Aquino in 2009. The Manila Cathedral is a living testimony to the history of the Philippines. It is a place of worship, a tourist destination, and a historical landmark. It is a reminder of the rich and diverse history of the Philippines, and it is a symbol of the country's resilience and hope. Many consider it to be the most beautiful church in the entire country. Ten Interesting Facts About Manila Cathedral 1. It is the oldest and most important church in the Philippines. 2. It is the seat of the Archdiocese of Manila, the largest and oldest archdiocese in the country. 3. The cathedral has been rebuilt seven times due to fires, earthquakes, and bombings. 4. The present structure was built from 1954 to 1958 and is a neo-Romanesque structure with a capacity of 5,000 people. 5. The cathedral is the final resting place of many of the Philippines' most important religious figures, including several archbishops of Manila. 6. It has been a witness to many important events in the country's history, including the baptism of Rajah Matanda, the coronation of Felipe II of Spain as King of Spain and the Philippines, and the beatification of San Lorenzo Ruiz. 7. The cathedral's main altar is made of Carrara marble and is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception. 8. The cathedral's pipe organ is one of the largest in the Philippines. 9. The cathedral has a museum that exhibits religious artifacts and artworks. 10. It is estimated that the cathedral receives around 2 million visitors per year. This number includes tourists, pilgrims, and residents. The number of visitors varies depending on the time of year, with the highest number of visitors during the Christmas season and the feast day of the Immaculate Conception, which is celebrated on December 8th. What Is Intramuros? Intramuros, which translates to "within the walls" in Spanish, is a historic district located at the center of Manila, Philippines. It was established by the Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi in 1571. Designed as a defensive fortress, Intramuros was encircled by massive stone walls and moats to shield the Spanish settlers from attacks by local indigenous groups and other foreign powers. The walls of Intramuros served as a physical barrier separating the Spanish elite from the outside world. Intramuros served as the political, religious, and economic center of Manila during the Spanish colonial era. The district's architecture reflects a blend of Spanish colonial and Asian influences, featuring elegant facades, intricate carvings, and cobblestone streets. Laid out in a grid pattern typical of Spanish colonial town planning, the central plaza, known as Plaza Mayor (now called Plaza de Roma), serves as the focal point of the district. Key structures, such as the Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church, highlight its significance as a religious and cultural hub. Intramuros withstood the seven-year conflict between Spain and Britain in 1762 but endured severe destruction during World War II, primarily due to extensive bombing by American forces following the Japanese invasion and occupation of the city. During this time, much of the original architecture and structures were either destroyed or damaged, not only from the bombing but also due to the 'scorched earth' tactics used by the retreating Japanese army. Intramuros was nearly obliterated, making Manila the second most devastated city of World War II, following Warsaw in Poland. Following the conclusion of the war and the proclamation of Philippine independence from the U.S. in 1946, initiatives have been undertaken to protect and restore the remnants of Intramuros' historical legacy. Although a significant portion of the original city has been lost, Intramuros remains a beloved site, drawing tourists who are keen to explore the colonial history of the Philippines. It provides a distinctive view of the nation's history through its museums, cultural sites, and landmarks. As a living monument to the history of the Philippines, Intramuros represents the country's resilience and serves as a concrete link to its fight for independence from foreign rule. Manila Cathedral Opening Times The Manila Cathedral is open to the public for both religious services and sightseeing. Visitors can explore its interior, learn about its history, and appreciate its artistic and architectural elements. The Manila Cathedral is open to the public from 7 am to 5 pm, Tuesday to Sunday . There are no entrance fees, but donations are welcome. The cathedral is closed on Mondays and holidays for office maintenance. ⪢ Opening Hours for Mass ● Mondays to Fridays: 7.30 am to 12.10 pm ● Saturdays: 7.30 am only ● Sundays: 8 am, 10 am, and 6 pm How to Get to Manila Cathedral The Manila Cathedral is situated within the walled city of Intramuros, in the heart of Manila, making it a central and accessible location for both locals and tourists. By LRT By Bus By Taxi By Car ⪢ Consider Taking a Tour Many tour operators offer guided tours of Intramuros , which often include a visit to Manila Cathedral. Joining a guided tour can be a convenient way to learn about the history of the area while ensuring you won't get lost! ⪢ Contact Information for Manila Cathedral ● Address:   Cabildo cor. Beaterio St., Intramuros, Manila, Philippines 1002 ● Contact:  +63 (0)285273093 / (0)285271796 ● Email:  mlacathedral58@gmail.com Where to Stay in Manila Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Manila hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Other Places to Visit Nearby There are many places to check out in Intramuros, but here are a few within walking distance from Manila Cathedral that we recommend you check out: San Agustin Church The San Agustin Church is the oldest in the country, and one of the four Baroque Churches of the Philippines, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It is the only church that survived the near complete destruction of Intramuros in WW2. Casa Manila Casa Manila is a museum that was built in 1980, showcasing the lifestyle of a wealthy Filipino family during the Spanish colonial period. It is a fascinating tour back in time here, with original features and furnishings. Fort Santiago Fort Santiago was built by the Spanish in 1571 and served as the HQ of the colonial government. The fort was also used as a prison, and it is where José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, was imprisoned before his execution in 1896. Barbara’s Restaurant Step back in time at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant in Manila’s famous walled city of Intramuros. A must-visit for great food, music, and culture. A wonderful way to immerse yourself in the incredible history and tradition of the Philippines. Watch Our Exploration of Intramuros on YouTube In this video, we explore Manila Old City, known as Intramuros! It is such a beautiful and historic area of Manila! We show you the best luxury and local places to visit as we walk around and explore the city. We explore the tourist hot spots of Plaza San Luis Complex, where you can find Barbara's Heritage Restaurant, the Royal Cafe, and the Casa Manila Living Museum. We also head to San Agustin Church and Manila Cathedral. We then check out Fort Santiago, all while enjoying the sights and sounds of the lively and friendly Manila that we have come to know and love. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Experience Rating: Manila Cathedral The Manila Cathedral remains a symbol of faith, history, and culture for the Philippines, drawing in visitors and pilgrims alike to experience its beauty and significance. The cathedral's rich history, architectural grandeur, and religious significance make it a cornerstone of Philippine cultural heritage and identity. We are honored to have been able to come here and share our energy with a place of such importance. As we put together this blog post, we learned even more about the history of this cathedral, and it has added so much to what was already a wonderful experience. We urge you to visit, enjoy the warmth of this space, and make a donation! FAQ: Manila Cathedral – What to Know Before You Go What is the Manila Cathedral? The Manila Cathedral, officially known as the Minor Basilica and Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, is the premier church of the Philippines and the seat of the Archbishop of Manila. It has been rebuilt multiple times after surviving earthquakes, fires, and war. Where is it located? What makes it historically significant? What are the visiting hours? Can you attend a mass or a wedding there? What architectural style is the cathedral? How long should I spend here? Is there an entrance fee? What’s the best time to visit? What else is nearby? ● Fort Santiago (historic citadel) ● San Agustin Church (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) ● Casa Manila Museum ● Intramuros walls and gates ● Rizal Park, just a short walk away Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing For peace of mind abroad, we recommend travel insurance. SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies, with options for adventure sports and electronics theft. SafetyWing's Complete Plan  offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits. Book Transport Taxis, Trains, Planes, Buses & Ferries in Advance Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless transport booking experience. With booking.closerlives.com , compare prices and schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Interactive Map Philippines Check out all of the places we visited in the Philippines courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap a number for more information, including our blog posts and links to reviews. Wanderlog  is a free travel planning app where you can create itineraries, organize flights, hotels, and car reservations, view places to visit, and collaborate with friends. Closer Lives Travel Hub Destinations, Tips & Essentials Head over to our Travel Hub – it’s packed with free country guides, helpful travel blogs, videos from the road, and tips to help you travel smarter (and cheaper!). Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already out exploring, we've got resources to help you every step of the way. Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Just a short walk from the spectacular Arundel Castle stands perhaps one of the best cathedrals in all of England. It is an impressive sight from the castle gardens, and even more beautiful the closer you get to it. Arundel is not one of the first names that roll off the tongue when talking about the great cathedrals of England, but in this blog, we aim to show that it should be. After spending time at the beautiful castle and gardens of Arundel, we didn't anticipate how much of an impact the Cathedral would have on us. There is an incredible energy about the place! Read on to find out all about its history and why we fell in love with this magnificent cathedral. In This Post... ●   History, Photos & Facts ●   Arundel Castle ●   How to Get There ●   Arundel Cathedral – FAQ Travel Resources ● Get Travel Insurance ● Find Local Hotels ●   Book Transport ●   Interactive Map ●   Closer Lives Travel Hub History, Photos, and Facts about Arundel Cathedral Arundel was one of the first places we visited together in England on our way to Stonehenge and the marvellous Roman city of Bath. Located in West Sussex, Arundel is famous for its well-conserved Georgian buildings and is also home to the Duke and Duchess of Norfolk. The town was established over 1000 years ago, and you can sense the rich history throughout. Ground up view of the main entrance and stunning 'rose window' Construction began on the cathedral in 1868 under the instruction of Henry, the 15th Duke of Norfolk. It took 5 years to build and was designed by architect Joseph Hansom. Built in Bath stone (now very hard to find in England), the cathedral was to rival the magnificence and splendour of Arundel Castle, and Hansom duly obliged. Originally dedicated to St Philip Neri, official Cathedral status was granted in 1965. We had travelled to Scotland before this adventure, and it is fair to say that Jenn had already seen a fair bit of the beautiful history and architecture that Britain has to offer. But this ended up being something so much more than just dazzling stained glass and epic stone construction. From the spectacular rose window to the clusters of pillars and beautiful vaulted ceilings, it was a sight to behold, and its story and energy completely drew us in. Unforgettable! The incredible 'rose window' sits proudly above the organ, surrounded by stunning carved fluted columns. The impressive organ of the cathedral is thought to have been commissioned in 1867 for a London Church in Islington but was enlarged and transferred to Arundel in 1873. Little is known about its origins and indeed why it was chosen for Arundel. We do know it was produced by William Hill & Sons however, who at the time were highly regarded in the industry. We were immediately drawn to it when we visited, we wish we had been able to hear it in action too! As we were wandering amongst the pews we couldn't help but take notice of the alluring stone carvings in the walls. Regardless of whether you are a practicing Christian or not, the beauty and alluring nature of these carvings drew us in, and we suppose that was the intention. Following along the walls, we couldn't help but imagine what it must have been like to receive messages of this kind and to etch them on stone tablets of the past... let alone carry them across continents. Number eight of the fourteen stations of the cross There was an awesome presence to be felt here, and one series of carvings in particular was those showing the path and journey of Christ. The fourteen Stations of the Cross, depicting the last journey from the condemnation of Christ by Pontius Pilate to his crucifixion and laying to rest in the tomb, are showcased in all churches and cathedrals of the Christian faith. But perhaps this is one of the most unique; the method of carefully and brilliantly carving them into the walls was no doubt to help translate impact and curiosity, and they certainly do that with aplomb. The remarkable rose window. For us, the grandest feature of all is the phenomenal rose window with the Virgin Mary and her Holy Child at its centre. This amazing window sits above the organ gallery and is a shining light that encases the entire building with its size and glow. It is on the West front and was made by the esteemed Hardman's Workshop of Birmingham. The outer circle depicts the 15 Mysteries of the Rosary. It is hard not to get completely lost in the brilliance of this striking art and craftsmanship! The stained glass windows all tell an intriguing story. In her own words, Jenn ‘resonated with the cathedral on a spiritual level’. It certainly was a profound feeling as we paused underneath the incredible vaulted dome above the altar, the multi coloured stained glass windows shimmering in our peripheral vision as we took in the energy and solitude of the moment. This cathedral is a sight to behold with its incredible attention to detail. It is an epic place of Gothic revival architecture, stained glass windows, and spiritual energy. Like much of Britain at the time, architects were being asked to design buildings in classical themes, blending the old with the new. You can see the attention to detail here, and wherever you look, the Cathedral offers a glimpse into past medieval Victorian styles, yet with its smooth Bath stone offers a bright and modern feel. Some of the best stained glass artwork we have seen So, should you head to Arundel and visit the Cathedral (and the castle too)? Our answer is a resounding YES. You simply must do so if you love historical buildings, British history, and places that have an incredible, energetic, and mystical connection. You certainly feel it here, and perhaps it is no coincidence that it is so close to the ancient site of Stonehenge too. The dome of the altar is as imposing as it is spectacular! One of our all-time favorites, Arundel Castle and its gardens, will blow you away! ⪢ Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing For peace of mind abroad, we recommend travel insurance. SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies, with options for adventure sports and electronics theft. SafetyWing's Complete Plan  offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits. Arundel Castle The grand castle of Arundel is home to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and is one of the most impressive castles you will see! Perched upon a hill in the quaint old town of Arundel, this castle is nearly 1000 years old and is beautiful in both its internal and external design. It is also surrounded by glorious gardens that are worth a visit all on their own! If you do have the time, we would highly recommend combining a trip here to Arundel Castle and its incredible grounds. It is just over the road from the cathedral and is one of the finest castles of its kind in all of England. 🔗 READ MORE: Discover Arundel Castle How to Get to Arundel Cathedral Arundel Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Church of Our Lady and St Philip Howard, is located in the historic town of Arundel, West Sussex, England. It sits majestically on a hill opposite Arundel Castle, offering sweeping views of the town and surrounding countryside. By Train The easiest way to reach Arundel Cathedral from London or nearby cities is by train. Take a Southern Railway service to Arundel Station—there are regular trains from London Victoria, Gatwick Airport, and Brighton. The cathedral is about a 15–20 minute walk from the station, through the charming streets of Arundel. By Car Arundel is well connected by road via the A27, which links it to Chichester, Brighton, and Portsmouth. Use postcode BN18 9AY for navigation. There’s limited street parking near the cathedral, but several public car parks are available in town, such as Crown Yard Car Park (a 5-minute walk away). By Bus Local bus services connect Arundel with surrounding towns. Stagecoach South operates routes from Chichester, Worthing, and Littlehampton. The bus stops in the town centre, just a few minutes' walk from the cathedral. By Foot (within Arundel) If you're already in Arundel, the cathedral is easily accessible on foot. It’s just a 2-minute walk from Arundel Castle and offers a scenic stroll through the town’s quaint lanes. By Bike Cycling to Arundel is a popular option, especially for those exploring the South Downs. Bike racks are available near the town centre, and the roads leading to the cathedral are bike-friendly, although they can be steep near the top. ⪢ Contact Information for Arundel Cathedral ● Address: London Rd, Arundel BN18 9AY, United Kingdom ● Email: arundel@abdiocese.org.uk   ● Opening hours:  9.30 am to 4.30 pm, 7 days per week ● Contact no: +441903882297 ● Website: arundelcathedral.uk   ⪢ Easily Find Hotels in Arundel and Beyond Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Arundel hotel deals below to find great rates for an overnight stay. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Arundel Cathedral – FAQ What is Arundel Cathedral known for? Arundel Cathedral is located in the charming market town of Arundel, West Sussex, England. It overlooks the River Arun and sits near the famous Arundel Castle. What is Arundel Cathedral known for? The cathedral is known for its striking French Gothic Revival architecture, stunning stained glass windows, and its association with the Dukes of Norfolk. It’s a spiritual and architectural gem in South East England. Is Arundel Cathedral still in use? Yes! Arundel Cathedral is an active place of worship and the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Arundel and Brighton. It hosts regular services, events, and concerts. Can visitors tour the cathedral? Absolutely. The cathedral is open to visitors most days, and entry is free. Guests can admire the architecture, attend services, or enjoy peaceful reflection. Are there guided tours available? While there aren’t official guided tours daily, special group tours and educational visits can be arranged in advance. During special events or festivals, additional info may also be available on-site. What are the opening hours? Opening hours may vary slightly by season or event, but typically the cathedral is open daily from around 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It’s best to check their official website before visiting. Is Arundel Cathedral accessible? Yes, the cathedral is wheelchair accessible and offers accessible restrooms. Staff are usually available to assist visitors with mobility needs. Is photography allowed inside the cathedral? Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed, though flash and tripods may be restricted. Be respectful during services and check posted signage. What’s nearby to see after visiting? Arundel Castle is just a short walk away and makes a perfect follow-up to your cathedral visit. You can also explore Arundel’s quaint shops, riverside walks, and local cafes. Book Transport Taxis, Trains, Planes, Buses & Ferries in Advance Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless transport booking experience. With booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Interactive Map England Check out all of the places we visited in England courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap a number for more information, including our blog posts and links to reviews. Wanderlog  is a free travel planning app where you can create itineraries, organize flights, hotels, and car reservations, view places to visit, and collaborate with friends. Closer Lives Travel Hub Destinations, Tips & Essentials Head over to our Travel Hub – it’s packed with free country guides, helpful travel blogs, videos from the road, and tips to help you travel smarter (and cheaper!). Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already out exploring, we've got resources to help you every step of the way. Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

At the Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City, Manila, you can immerse yourself in a Venetian-inspired experience. The standout feature of this mall is the artificial canal that runs through its center, where you can enjoy a gondola ride reminiscent of those in Venice. They are operated by gondoliers who are even dressed in traditional Venetian costumes, and sing too! The mall offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including a variety of shops and boutiques, diverse dining establishments, and live performances. Additionally, the mall features cinemas for moviegoers, picturesque spots for relaxation and photography, and serves as a venue for special events and celebrations. The man-made canal is the centerpiece of the mall and is the most popular spot for photos and sightseeing. In this post , we’ll take you through the enchanting experience of the Venice Grand Canal Mall in the Philippines . Discover the charm of the iconic Gondola Ride, and savor delicious meals at Juan’s Bistro Restaurant. Delve into the mall’s history, how to get there, and see our personal experience rating of this unique Italian-inspired destination. In This Post... ● Our Highlights ● The Gondola Ride ● Juan's Bistro Restaurant ● The History ● How to Get There See More... ● Where to Stay in Manila ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Rating ● FAQ Travel Resources ● Get Travel Insurance ● Book Transport ● Interactive Map ● Closer Lives Travel Hub Our Venice Grand Canal Mall Highlights We had seen a fair few videos on YouTube about this mall, so we were curious to see what it was all about. It was only a fifteen-minute drive from our Airbnb , too. The drive was super easy and McKinley Village, where the mall is located, is very well developed and a cool place to check out in general. Just the entrance to the mall alone is beautiful and immediately gives off those Italian vibes! Venice-inspired architecture graces the vibrant facade of the Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City, Manila, blending European elegance with modern allure. Also known as the Venice Piazza, this mall is the most visited attraction in the area and we could see why from the moment we stepped inside. We were initially greeted by this incredible bear of roses, and as we made our way through the rose-arched entrance we were drawn to the left, where we first saw the central canal. A stunning red rose teddy bear sculpture holding a golden heart is on display at the Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City, Manila, creating a romantic and vibrant atmosphere for visitors. Sometimes these types of tourist attractions can come off a little tacky, but we have to say that the imitation has been well thought out here. The canal itself is not too big, but long enough to incorporate several bridges, and is lined with restaurants that all incorporate the traditional arch-style Venice facades. Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City, Manila, features picturesque canals reminiscent of Venice, complete with gondola rides and vibrant architecture that create a charming and immersive experience. There is even a pretty good replica of the famous Rialto Bridge. The Ponte de Amore Bridge is also present, a heart-shaped bridge that is a popular spot for couples. The bridge is decorated with lights and flowers, complete with love locks, too, and it is a beautiful place to take photos. A replica of St. Mark's Campanile is also at Venice Grand Canal Mall, along with numerous attractions, including a carousel, rides for the kids, and even pigeon feeding. There is something for everyone here! Visitors relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at the Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City, Manila, surrounded by charming European-style architecture and cozy outdoor seating. The pastel colors and unique architecture do indeed give off a real feel of not just Venice but Europe in general. Having been to Venice ourselves not too long ago, it was actually very alluring! A towering figure dressed as a well-known intergalactic character stands with a tip box at the Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City, Manila, adding a touch of fantasy to the lively shopping scene. The side 'streets' to the canal are bustling with unique street acts, mainly those wonderfully dressed 'statue' artists that offer awesome photo ops. There are plenty of places to catch that Instagram-worthy shot, although it is very busy, so not easy to find a bit of space! Elegant interiors at the Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City, Manila, featuring intricate railings and decorative lighting. Inside the mall is also really pretty, with plenty of murals, bright colors, and stylish lighting that caught our eye. There are some high-end stores here, but it did feel like it was all about the food, to be honest. You will find some fast-food favorites, but it is mostly Italian (obviously) and Filipino cuisine here which we thought was a very good combination indeed. After a wonderful meal at Juan's Bistro (more on that later), we went on to take the Gondola ride. Juan's Bistro at the Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City, Manila, showcases its inviting interior and diverse Filipino menu options, enticing passersby to enjoy a taste of local cuisine. It was something we did not get to do in the actual Venice, so it seemed cool to try it here. It was a little on the pricey side, but we are glad we had a chance to experience it. We decided to share our gondola and it was awesome because we were accompanied by someone who was from the Philippines but lived in Canada ! What were the chances? It was super nice to get to know them, with our Gondolier singing in the background. It is moments like these that make traveling so worthwhile. A gondola glides through the serene waters of the Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City, Manila, surrounded by Italian-inspired architecture and vibrant eateries. The ride lasted around ten minutes and was very comfortable. Included in the price is a free photo at the end too, which is a nice touch. Check out more details on the Gondola Ride in the next section, and be sure to watch our highlights of the ride in our YouTube video later on in this post. The Gondola Ride at Venice Grand Canal Mall The gondola ride at Venice Grand Canal Mall is a 10-minute ride end-to-end, along the man-made canal. The gondolas are operated by gondoliers who are dressed in traditional Venetian costumes, and with great voices, sing too! The Gondola Ride is a popular tourist attraction and a great way to experience the Italian atmosphere of the mall. The serene waters of the Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City, Manila, reflect the elegant architecture and vibrant atmosphere, capturing the essence of Venetian charm with its gondolas and inviting ambiance. ⪢ Things to Know about the Gondola Ride at Venice Grand Canal Mall ● Opening Times The rides are available daily from 11 am to 10 pm. ● Ticket Prices The gondola ride at Venice Grand Canal Mall costs 500 pesos per person for a shared boat . The gondola can accommodate up to 6 people. For a private non-shared ride , you must book the whole boat, which costs 2000 pesos. ● Advisories The ride is not recommended for pregnant women or people with mobility issues. The ride may be canceled due to bad weather (the canal section of the mall is open-air). Arrive early or on weekdays to avoid long queues. Average wait times can be up to 1 hour on weekends. When boarding the gondola a photo is taken, which is available for free at the end of the ride. Our Visit to Juan's Bistro Restaurant Juan's Bistro is a Filipino restaurant located on the Ground Floor of the Venice Grand Canal Mall. It is a casual dining restaurant that serves a variety of Filipino cuisine , including appetizers, main courses, and desserts. It was one of the first restaurants we saw when we got to the mall, and we were immediately drawn to its tempting menu outside as we wanted to try some authentic Filipino cuisine. We are so glad we chose Juan's Bistro; the food was just fantastic! The deep-fried half-pork leg that we ordered was cooked perfectly, crispy on the outside and succulently soft on the inside. Probably the best pork we have ever had outside of Mexico , which has always been a favorite of ours. Aside from the pork, we tried the Ginisang Sayote, which is a vegetable sautéed with mixed pork and chicharron. This was the first time we had tried this in the Philippines and this was also super tasty and we definitely recommend it. Diners enjoy a meal at Juan’s Bistro in the Venice Grand Canal Mall, Taguig City, Manila, surrounded by rustic decor and vibrant colors, capturing the essence of Filipino cuisine and hospitality. We also had a side of Embutido Natin, a fried meat roll with sausage, raisins, and egg. This was our least favorite of all that we ordered; it was okay, but we probably wouldn't order it again. There was nothing wrong with it though, and it is still worth trying as a starter. We also tried one of the most famous desserts in the Philippines, Halo Halo. This popular dessert is made up of crushed ice, evaporated milk, and various ingredients, including beans, coconut, soft yams in cubes, flan pieces, and fruit. It is an exciting dessert with lots going on and is certainly enough for two to share. This was our first try of Halo Halo, and after several recommendations from our YouTube subscribers, we are so happy we had the opportunity to enjoy it! A vibrant and refreshing serving of halo-halo, featuring a delightful mix of shaved ice, colorful jellies, sweetened beans, and a scoop of creamy purple yam ice cream, garnished with slices of ripe fruit. Overall perhaps one of the defining characteristics of this restaurant was not just the great food, but its excellent service. Fast, efficient, and friendly, the staff here really made an effort to make us feel welcome and valued. So much so that we participated in a special promotion where we made a Reel for Facebook and Instagram, and were given a 20% off voucher, along with a free re-useable bag and umbrella. Super nice, and a great ending to our time here. We highly recommend Juan's Bistro, and we are sure you will enjoy it just as much as we did! The History Behind Venice Grand Canal Mall in Manila Venice Grand Canal Mall is an Italian-inspired lifestyle mall located in McKinley Hill, Taguig City, Philippines . It was developed by Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, a subsidiary of Megaworld Corporation. The mall took just over a year to build and was opened to the public on September 18, 2015. A picturesque scene at Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City, Manila, showcasing a serene canal with a gondola gliding under an elegant bridge, surrounded by European-inspired architecture and vibrant greenery. The mall is designed to resemble the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy . It features a man-made canal that is 200 meters (660 ft) long and 15 meters (49 ft) wide. The canal is lined with gondolas that offer rides to visitors. The mall also has replicas of St. Mark's Campanile in Piazza San Marco, the Rialto Bridge, and the Ponte de Amore Bridge. Venice Grand Canal Mall is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and services. It is also a popular destination for events and concerts. The mall was awarded the Best Retail Architectural Design at the Philippine Property Awards in 2017, and now attracts over 1.5 million visitors a year, with its popularity continuing to increase. How to Get to Venice Grand Canal Mall in Manila There are several ways to get to the Venice Grand Canal Mall. Here are some options: By Taxi Taxis and ride-hailing services are also available. The fare from Manila to the resort is around PHP 300-400. By Bus You can take a bus from any major bus terminal in Manila to the Fort Bonifacio Global City (BGC) bus stop. From the BGC bus stop, the walk to the Venice Grand Canal Mall is around ten minutes. This will cost around 12 pesos. By Car The Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City, Metro Manila, can be accessed by car from various routes, including EDSA, BGC, and C5 Road. To ensure accurate directions and avoid traffic, we recommend using navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze. The main parking area is located at the back of the mall. The entrance is on Campus Avenue. The parking fee is 20 pesos per hour for the first two hours and 10 pesos per hour for every succeeding hour. The overflow parking area is located on Upper McKinley Road. The entrance is near The Woodridge Residences. The parking fee is 10 pesos per hour. By MRT / Jeepney Take the MRT south to Guadalupe Station and exit the station northbound. Walk to the jeepney terminal in front of the MRT station and take one bound for Market, FTI Gate 3. Get off at the McKinley Hill stop; the walk from there to the Venice Grand Canal Mall is around five minutes. This will cost around 30 pesos in total. ⪢ Contact Information for Venice Grand Canal Mall ● Address:  McKinley Hill Dr, Taguig, 1630 Metro Manila ● Phone:  +63 027 624 1971 ● Open Hours:   11 am to 11 pm daily ⪢ Consider Taking a Tour in Manila One of the most popular ways to explore Manila is by tour. Fancy heading to Chinatown? Or taking a trip to Intramuros? How about a street food tour? Check out a host of different tour options with GetYourGuide. No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination. 🎟️ Book your tickets here Where to Stay near the Venice Grand Canal Mall in Manila Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Manila hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Watch Our Trip to the Venice Grand Canal Mall on YouTube We were surprised by the beauty in the Venice Grand Canal Mall and had a great time on the gondola ride! Enjoy our Filipino food reactions to the delicious tastes we tried at Juan's Bistro, and make sure to watch to find out what we thought about the popular Filipino dessert Halo Halo. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Experience Rating: Venice Grand Canal Mall The Venice Grand Canal Mall is a really fun experience that we do recommend checking out if you are looking for somewhere a little different in Manila! Manila is famous for its malls and shopping and here is no exception; you can certainly do that. Not to mention the incredible amount of food on offer too. But what Venice Grand Canal Mall does in its unique way is offer you a romantic taste of Italy, where you can enjoy moments that you might only ever get to see on social media or somewhere on the internet. Having been to Venice and not taken a gondola ride, it was exactly that for us too! We hope you get a chance to go. FAQ: Visiting Venice Grand Canal Mall, Manila What is the Venice Grand Canal Mall? It’s a Venice-inspired lifestyle mall in McKinley Hill, Taguig, featuring gondola rides, romantic bridges, and Italian architecture — often called the most “Instagrammable” mall in the Philippines. Where is it located? The mall is in McKinley Hill, Taguig City, near Bonifacio Global City (BGC) and accessible via Lawton Avenue or C5. 💡 Best reached by taxi or Grab if you're staying in BGC or Makati. Are gondola rides available daily? Yes, gondola rides are available daily (weather permitting). Each ride lasts around 20–30 minutes, with a gondolier guiding you along the man-made canal. 🎟️ Tickets can be purchased onsite at the gondola dock, typically costing around PHP 250–500 per person. What else can I do at the mall? Beyond the canal, you can: ● Dine at Italian and international restaurants ● Shop at midrange boutiques and specialty stores ● Watch a movie at the Venice Cineplex ● Take photos on the colorful love locks bridge or under the grand rotunda ● Catch weekend events or art displays Is the mall pet-friendly? Yes, Venice Grand Canal Mall is pet-friendly, especially in outdoor areas. Many locals bring their dogs for a stroll along the canal. When is the best time to visit? Evenings and late afternoons are ideal to enjoy the lights, breeze, and canal ambiance. Weekends are more festive but also more crowded. 💡 For fewer crowds and better photo ops, go on a weekday morning. Are there good photo spots? Absolutely! Some of the best ones include: ● The arched red and yellow bridges ● The gondola dock ● The open-air promenade with the dome ceiling ● The Love Locks Bridge ● The view from the upper-level walkways How long should I plan to stay? A casual visit with lunch and a gondola ride takes around 2–3 hours, though you could stay longer for shopping or dinner. Is there an entrance fee? No, entrance to the mall is free, though gondola rides and other activities may cost extra. What’s nearby that I can also visit? ● McKinley Hill attractions, like the Philippine Army Museum ● Bonifacio Global City (BGC) for nightlife and dining ● Uptown Mall and High Street (10–15 minutes by car) Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing For peace of mind abroad, we recommend travel insurance. SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies, with options for adventure sports and electronics theft. SafetyWing's Complete Plan  offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits. Book Transport Taxis, Trains, Planes, Buses & Ferries in Advance Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless transport booking experience. With booking.closerlives.com , compare prices and schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Interactive Map Philippines Check out all of the places we visited in the Philippines courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap a number for more information, including our blog posts and links to reviews. Wanderlog  is a free travel planning app where you can create itineraries, organize flights, hotels, and car reservations, view places to visit, and collaborate with friends. Closer Lives Travel Hub Destinations, Tips & Essentials Head over to our Travel Hub – it’s packed with free country guides, helpful travel blogs, videos from the road, and tips to help you travel smarter (and cheaper!). Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already out exploring, we've got resources to help you every step of the way. Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Are you looking for a luxurious and convenient place to stay in Manila? If so, then Azure Urban Resort Residences is the perfect place for you! Located in the heart of the city, Azure offers a range of amenities and facilities, including a man-made beach, a swimming pool, a fitness center, a spa, and various restaurants . We have really enjoyed our stay here, and it is an excellent base from which to explore Manila in the Philippines . It is also a really good chill-out spot, alongside being a great place to work for us digital nomads! In this blog post , we will give you a whole host of reasons to consider this Airbnb in Azure Urban Resort Residences for your stay in Manila. Read on for our highlights, the food from the on-site restaurants, services, and facilities, the history of the complex, how to find it, and our Airbnb experience rating. In This Post... ● The Airbnb at Azure ● The Restaurants ● Services & Facilities ● The History ● How to Get There See More... ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Rating ● FAQ Travel Resources ● Get Travel Insurance ● Book Transport ● Interactive Map ● Closer Lives Travel Hub The Airbnb at the Azure Urban Residences Manila This apartment is classy and comfortable and really makes the best use of its small size. The furnishings are super high quality, with great lighting too. We liked the mirrors and glass units, which work to add a sense of depth and make the space feel much bigger. The kitchen is well-equipped, featuring a highly efficient fridge, an essential microwave, and plenty of utensils. It is stocked with coffee, tea, and sugar, as well as pots and pans, along with a countertop induction stove. Although the space is small, it functions very well, and we were really pleased with it. The living room is quite cozy, featuring a dining table and a sofa, and it can be smartly separated from the bedroom using glass sliding doors. The bathroom, though compact, is modern and clean, offering instant hot water and strong water pressure. Cozy and stylish seating area at an Airbnb in Azure Urban Residences Manila, featuring plush cushions and contemporary decor. The bedroom has plenty of storage, with a wardrobe, dresser, and bedside tables. There are plenty of sockets for charging, and it is a nice touch that they take American and British plugs directly without the need for an adapter. Most importantly, the bed is super comfy! There are plenty of pillows and a nice down duvet, with good air-con opposite to maintain a good temperature. Then of course there is a large TV with Netflix and Amazon Prime, which makes a perfect combination for chilling at night! Balcony view from an Airbnb at the Azure Urban Residences in Manila, showcasing modern architecture and a serene sky. There is also a decent balcony here which is a little tight but perfectly fine for going outside to catch some air. There is a table and chairs to sit and chill too, which we certainly made use of. Overall this Airbnb is great. We have no complaints about it. Add this to the facilities and services on-site, and you have a perfect stay on your hands here. We highly recommend it! Read on for more on what's in store within the resort itself, plus our overall experience ratings. The Restaurants at Azure Urban Resort Residences Manila ⪢ La Shish Mediterranean Meals La Shish is a Mediterranean restaurant that offers a variety of kebabs, salads, and hummus. The service here is great, and the restaurant has a good menu with plenty to choose from. You can either dine outside or take away, and they also serve cold beer on draught or in cans. Outdoor dining and shops create a vibrant scene at the Azure Urban Residences in Manila. We have tried a few options, including a salad, shawarma, pesto pasta, and biriyani. The food has been nice, and the chef is happy to add or remove as required, for example, spice (which Leon loves). A really good option and well worth a visit! 💡 La Shish Mediterranean Meals is open from 10.30 am to 10 pm daily and can take cash or credit/debit card. ⪢ 3J's Wings Central (Boracay Tower) 3J's Wings is a great option for chicken wings (of course), but also for its good range of local Filipino food. The restaurant is also a popular spot for people who are looking for a casual dine-in experience and is well air-conditioned. Outdoor seating area at 3J Wings Central The wings come in a variety of different ways, with specific portion sizes or an 'unlimited' option. There are plenty of sauce choices too. You will also find noodles here, including pancit bihon / canton sa bagnet, which comes in a massive bowl. The menu does show pasta dishes, although every time we visited they were sadly not available. You can also get pork, beef, and seafood dishes here, with popular Filipino cuisine such as adobo, binagoongan, and ginataang kaldereta. The prices are very affordable here, too. We enjoyed the food here and it is good value for money for sure. 💡 3J's Wings restaurant is open from 11 am to 11 pm daily and only takes cash. ⪢ Star Frappe (Boracay Tower) This restaurant is popular for its wide range of drinks, mainly its frappes, milk teas, and coffee. We found them to be excellent value and perhaps the most affordable of all the restaurants we tried. Pork sisig from Star Frappe The food options here are good too, with plenty of rice meals including sisig and barkada, with pork, beef, and chicken options. They also offer shawarmas, hot dogs, tacos, noodles and other snacks. 💡 Star Frappe is open from 11 am to 11 pm daily and only takes cash. ⪢ Tam's Restaurant (Boracay Tower) This restaurant is perhaps more well-known for its extensive range of fascinating tea drinks, including jelly, pudding, cream, and cheesecake flavors. We tried one and although very sweet, it was absolutely delicious and worth the price. You can get local tapsilog here, including tosilog, hamsilog, and bangsilog. There are also fried chicken, spaghetti, tacos, burgers, and hot dog options to choose from. The prices are kind of high on the food, and we did try the chicken, hot dogs, and spaghetti, which were underwhelming for flavor and portion size (and not like the photos on the menu). There are some cakes and desserts available too, which were ok. 💡 Tam's Restaurant is open from 11 am to 10 pm daily and only takes cash payment. ⪢ Skyfort Cafe (Paris Beach Club) The Skyfort Restaurant has a great view of the wave pool and is finely decorated. The tables and booth chairs are really elegant, and we were also impressed with the gold cutlery and fine china plates. Visitors enjoy a relaxed atmosphere at Skyfort Cafe, located within the Azure Urban Residences in Manila. The cafe's modern design is complemented by ample natural light and lush greenery outside. There are plenty of tempting options here, with all-day Western and Filipino-style breakfasts, entrees, sandwiches, and burgers. There is a Japanese-themed menu too, and also a plethora of power smoothies and other drinks to choose from. The prices here are on the higher end, and we were a tad disappointed with the breakfast portion given that. It was also not hot when served. The coffee was small and only lukewarm too which was also frustrating given its price point. 💡 Skyfort Cafe is open from 11 am to 10 pm daily and only takes cash payment. ⪢ Pizza Kusina (Maui Tower) A good mid-price option, Pizza Kusina offers a great selection of specialty and classic pizzas with some good deals too. They also have burgers, fried chicken, pasta dishes, and special meat fries. If you fancy more traditional Filipino cuisine, you can also find mami, pares, bangus, longganisa, and tocino here. Definitely worth a try! 💡 Pizza Kusina is open from 10 am to 11 pm daily and only takes cash payment. Azure Urban Resort Residences Services & Facilities The resort has a variety of fantastic outdoor amenities, including a white sand man-made beach, 4 swimming pools, a fitness center/gym, a spa, a volleyball court, and a basketball court. Everything is really well maintained and we were impressed by it all! The pools include a lap pool, the main wave pool, two lagoon pools, a children's play area, and even a beach bar! The lagoon pools are only available to residents and guests, while the wave pool, beach club, and beach bar are open to the public. Luxurious poolside view at Azure Urban Residences in Manila, featuring modern architecture and stylish lounge chairs amid a serene urban oasis. Map of Azure Urban Resort Residences in Manila showcasing various amenities, including pools, courts, and themed residential towers named after famous beach destinations. ⪢ The Paris Beach Club The Paris Beach Club is a luxury beach club designed by international celebrity Paris Hilton. The club has a giant swimming wave pool, a sundeck, and a beach bar. The Paris Beach Club also includes the gym/fitness center, spa, function room, games room, movie room, and a children's play area, which are only available for residents and guests and accessible by key card. There is also an indoor lounge area, an ice cream and candy bar, and a dine-in restaurant here, which is open to the public. ⪢ Key Retail & Service Establishments The resort has a variety of retail and service establishments, including several convenience stores, a 7-Eleven, a pharmacy, a drop-off/pick-up laundry service, and a salon. These services are super helpful, especially the laundry and hairdresser! It is also really handy to be able to pick up quick supplies like coffee, toilet paper, and snacks. ⪢ Parking The resort has ample parking slots for guests and visitors on the basement levels, all accessible by elevator too. ⪢ Pet-Friendly Environment The resort is pet-friendly, so guests can bring their furry friends with them, which is a nice touch. A few on-site cats are milling around too! ⪢ Fully Gated with 24/7 Security There are plenty of security operatives working around the resort, including a gated entrance that vets every car and person coming in and out of the complex. While sometimes it can feel a little intense, we would rather have it than not! Expansive view from the rooftop of Azure Urban Residences in Manila, showcasing a sprawling cityscape with colorful buildings, lush greenery, and a distant glimpse of the bay under a vast, cloud-filled sky. ⪢ Filtered Water This can be delivered directly to your apartment, with a giant 10 litres costing just 25 pesos. All you have to do is drop the jug off at the Maui building and it will be delivered a short while later. ⪢ Waste Disposal Each floor has a super handy garbage room. Garbage should be separated by way of biodegradables and non-recyclable. ⪢ On-Site ATM This is super handy, although the mall is only a short walk away. The ATM charges 250 pesos for foreign withdrawals and only dispenses 1000 peso bills, which can be a pain for getting change, but it is a fantastic convenience. Especially as most of the businesses within the complex only accept cash. ⪢ High-Speed Internet Of huge importance to us as digital nomads, this Airbnb certainly does not disappoint, with speeds of over 160mbps down, 100mbps up, and a ping of less than 5. In the entire month we were there, we did not experience a single dropout. Fantastic! ⪢ Rooftop Access The rooftop is available to all residents and is 20 stories high. It is open from 7 am to 10 pm and is a nice, comfortable space, with an Astroturf floor and several seating areas, which are covered. Rooftop oasis at Azure Urban Residences Manila, featuring a modern seating area with panoramic city views under a stylish canopy structure. There are bathrooms up there too. The views are great from all angles and it is a lovely place to chill and watch the sun come down over the city. The History Behind Azure Residences Manila The Azure Urban Resort Residences is a relatively new development, having been completed in 2019. However, the land on which it is built has a long and rich history. Tropical paradise meets urban living at Azure Urban Residences in Manila, featuring lush palm trees and a serene pool setting. The land was originally owned by the Zobel de Ayala family, one of the wealthiest families in the Philippines . In the early 20th century, the family built a mansion on the property. The mansion was known as the Zobel Estate and it was a popular gathering place for the social elite of Manila. In the 1970s, the Zobel family sold the property to the Century Properties Group. The Century Properties Group is a real estate development company that is known for its luxury condominiums. They decided to build a resort on the property and they called it Azure Urban Resort Residences. Azure Urban Residences in Manila boasts a stunning swimming pool surrounded by lush greenery and towering modern apartment buildings, offering residents a tropical oasis in the heart of the city. The resort was designed by the award-winning architectural firm Broadway Malyan. The design of the resort is inspired by the tropical climate of the Philippines. The resort has nine towers, each of which is named after a famous beach destination. The towers are surrounded by lush gardens and a man-made beach. The Azure Urban Resort Residences is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The resort has a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, a fitness center, a spa, and a variety of restaurants. The resort is also home to the Paris Beach Club, which was designed by international celebrity Paris Hilton. The Azure Urban Resort Residences is a modern development with a rich history. It is a popular destination for people who are looking for a luxurious and convenient place to stay in Manila. How to Get to Azure Urban Resort Residences Manila There are several ways to get to Azure Urban Resort Residences. Here are a few options: By Taxi Taxis and ride-hailing services are also available. The fare from Manila to the resort is around PHP 300-400. By Car The resort is located at Km. 16, West Service Road, Bicutan, Parañaque City. If you are coming from Manila, you can take the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and exit at the Bicutan tollgate. Turn right onto General Santos Avenue and then left onto W Service Road. The resort will be on your left. By Public Transportation Several bus lines pass by the resort, including the Alabang-Signal Village via Service Road, Sucat-Market-Market, and Alabang-FTI via South Super Highway. You can also take the LRT-1 to the Baclaran station and then transfer to a jeepney or bus that goes to Bicutan. ⪢ Contact Information for Azure Urban Residences Address: Azure Urban Residences, KM 16, W Service Rd, Parañaque, 1700 Metro Manila Azure Beach Resort ● Phone: +63 915 818 1617 ● Opening hours: 8 am to 5 pm daily Azure Urban Resort Residences ● Phone: +63 927 328 0390 ● Website: azure.com ● Opening hours: 24 hours / 7 days Watch Our First Impressions of Manila on YouTube Our first impressions and our first day in Manila, Philippines! Our first vlog for you during our one-month stay in the city! In our first vlog here, we check the local area around where we are staying in Paranaque City at Azure Urban Resort Residences, Manila. We also explore the local SM City Bicutan, with a stop at McDonald's and a bite at the Greenwich restaurant. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Experience Ratings: Azure Residences Airbnb We highly recommend this Airbnb here at the Azure Residences. From the moment we arrived, we have been made to feel welcome, and not just from our host, but from all of the staff, be it the concierge, security, or even the maintenance crew. It is busy here and we can see why! It really is an excellent spot for a staycation or a great base to stay while you explore Manila. It ticks all the boxes! Cleanliness: 5/5 There is no problem in this area at all. The buildings themselves, the elevators and hallways, are really well maintained. The apartment is spotless, and the host provides cleaning supplies and spare bedding. They are also happy to provide a cleaning service should you prefer to pay for that and not do it yourself. Cost & Value for Money: 5/5 We always prefer to use Airbnb for month-long stays as you get a good discount for that length of time, which makes good financial sense for us as full-time travelers! There is a deposit of 5000 pesos to pay for utilities, which we paid in cash on arrival. We do like to use air conditioning and will have spent a considerable time in the apartment, given that we edit and blog so much. We expect to use most of that, and will update this blog after we have found out! Food & Drink: 5/5 As you will have read, there are plenty of options to eat here within the complex. There are restaurants on the ground floor of every building, and you can get a mixture of fast food or traditional Filipino cuisine, which is great. The only downside is that most of the restaurants only accept cash, which can be a tad annoying. Especially as they struggle with giving change (odd, given they only take cash), and the ATM at the Paris Hilton Beach Club only dispenses 1000 peso bills. It is also worth noting that it is super easy to use Food Panda or Grab apps here too, with a huge range of options and most deliveries taking about 30 minutes or so. Another big plus. Location: 5/5 The location here is really good, with plenty of local amenities all around (mainly within the complex). If you are looking for shopping or a bigger grocery option, the SM Mall is just a 6-minute walk away. In terms of exploring Manila, taxis arrive here all the time and can take you to most places around the city for less than USD 5. Local traffic can be a little heavy at times, and there is construction going on adjacent to the complex, but this is no fault of the residents themselves. Service: 5/5 Our host has been super helpful, and we have no complaints at all. The communication was consistent and attentive on the Airbnb app every step of the way, from the moment we touched down in Manila. We were welcomed personally and taken to our apartment on arrival, with everything explained clearly! Any questions we asked were answered promptly, and our hosts were even kind enough to provide us with an extensive list of things to do and places to visit. On top of all of that, the service from the staff on site has also been notable for the warmth and kindness we have received from everyone we have encountered. Right the way through from the maintenance crew to the security, it has been wonderful. Huge thumbs up all around! FAQ: Azure Urban Resort Residences – What to Know Before You Book What are Azure Urban Resort Residences? Azure is a resort-style condominium complex in Parañaque, Metro Manila. It’s famous for its man-made beach pool, wave pool, and tropical ambiance, giving visitors a resort feel without leaving the city. Where is Azure located? Located in Parañaque City, just 15–20 minutes from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). It's conveniently situated near SM Bicutan Mall and accessible from EDSA and SLEX highways. 💡 Ideal for a short layover or weekend escape within Metro Manila. What are the amenities? Depending on your unit and access, amenities may include: ● Man-made beach pool & wave pool ● Roof deck or garden areas ● Fitness gym ● Clubhouse with bar and restaurant ● Children’s play area and game room 💡 Not all Airbnb units include free access to pools — check the listing details carefully. Do you need to pay extra to use the beach or wave pool? Yes, amenity passes are often charged separately by building management. Fees vary depending on the day and guest type (residents, tenants, or visitors). What should I check before booking an Airbnb at Azure? Confirm the following: ● Whether amenity access is included or has extra charges ● If the unit has kitchenware, towels, and essentials ● Check-in/check-out hours and rules (some hosts are stricter) ● Whether you’re required to pre-register with ID for building security Is it good for families or couples? Yes — Azure is popular with families on staycations, couples, and even digital nomads looking for short-term comfort with a pool. Units vary from studios to two-bedroom apartments. Is it safe and secure? Yes, Azure has 24/7 security, gated access, and strict visitor protocols. The area is considered safe and residential, but always practice standard precautions. Can you order food or groceries to the unit? Absolutely. Food delivery apps like GrabFood, Foodpanda, and SM Market delivery are widely used by guests staying at Azure. How’s the Wi-Fi and connectivity? Most units come with private Wi-Fi, but speed and stability can vary by host. If you're working remotely, confirm with the host in advance. What makes Azure stand out? It’s one of the few Manila accommodations with a tropical, beach-themed environment and the convenience of condo amenities. Perfect for relaxing between travel legs or escaping the city buzz. Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing For peace of mind abroad, we recommend travel insurance. SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies, with options for adventure sports and electronics theft. SafetyWing's Complete Plan  offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits. Book Transport Taxis, Trains, Planes, Buses & Ferries in Advance Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless transport booking experience. With booking.closerlives.com , compare prices and schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Interactive Map Philippines Check out all of the places we visited in the Philippines courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap a number for more information, including our blog posts and links to reviews. Wanderlog  is a free travel planning app where you can create itineraries, organize flights, hotels, and car reservations, view places to visit, and collaborate with friends. Closer Lives Travel Hub Destinations, Tips & Essentials Head over to our Travel Hub – it’s packed with free country guides, helpful travel blogs, videos from the road, and tips to help you travel smarter (and cheaper!). Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already out exploring, we've got resources to help you every step of the way. Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Nestled within the bustling metropolis of Tokyo lies a haven of serenity - the Imperial Palace East Gardens. Offering a captivating blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and peaceful respite, these sprawling gardens are a must-visit for any traveler seeking a unique perspective on the city. This blog post delves into our exploratory stroll of the Imperial Palace East Gardens, taking you on a journey through its verdant landscapes, remnants of a bygone era, and captivating cultural insights. We'll uncover the gardens' rich history, explore the fascinating legacy of Edo Castle, and equip you with essential information for your visit, all from our own experience. Prepare to be transported to a world of tranquility amidst the vibrant energy of Tokyo City in Japan ! Read on for our highlights, practical tips, fun facts, opening times, ticket information, and much more. In This Post... ● Our Highlights ● The History ● Fun Facts ● Tips for Visiting & Entry Info ● How to Get There See More... ● Where to Stay in Tokyo ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Rating ● FAQ Travel Resources ● Get Travel Insurance ● Book Transport ● Interactive Map ● Closer Lives Travel Hub Our Imperial Palace Gardens Highlights We were staying in the sleek and modern neighborhood of Hibiya, luckily just a 15-minute and pretty direct route to the gardens. As it was December, we did not have the sunniest of backdrops, and the temperature was around 10 degrees, but this garden is still just as enchanting and magical as it would be in the spring or summer. That is honestly the word we would use to describe it - magical. It is a remarkable amount of green space bang in the center of Tokyo , and by far the largest public park in the capital. The area itself is known as Chiyoda City and houses the Imperial Palace, the National Museum of Science and Technology, and the Museum of Modern Art. The gardens are excellently maintained and in true Japanese style, exhibiting the famous cherry blossoms, which the world goes so mad for in the spring, too. Exploring the scenic Imperial Palace East Gardens, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquility. The first thing we came across was this gate and an important one at that. A symbol of Japanese imperial tradition, the Sakashitamon Gate stands tall as the formal entrance to the Imperial Palace. Reserved for momentous occasions, it opens its doors only for the Emperor's departures for state events, official visits by dignitaries, and ambassadorial presentations of credentials. The entrance gate to the Imperial Palace East Gardens, framed by lush greenery and traditional stone walls, showcasing classic Japanese architecture. Even on these rare occasions, the grandeur extends beyond the gate itself. Ambassadors are offered the unique opportunity to arrive in horse-drawn carriages, adding a touch of historical charm to the event. For the wider public, a glimpse into this world becomes available twice a year: on January 2nd and the Emperor's birthday. Unfortunately, we were just a few weeks too early for that! Serene view of the historic bridge and surrounding greenery at the Imperial Palace East Gardens, reflecting in the tranquil waters below. While two bridges grace the entrance, the iconic "Nijubashi" refers specifically to the inner, iron bridge, not the combination of both. Its name, meaning "double bridge," originates from the Edo period (1603-1867) when a wooden bridge spanned the moat, with another wooden structure reinforcing it underneath. Historic architecture meets modern skyscrapers at the Imperial Palace East Gardens, showcasing a serene blend of tradition and urban life reflected in the tranquil waters of the moat. Beyond the bridges, the Imperial Palace buildings remain veiled in the greenery, adding an air of mystery and intrigue. But the iconic image of the Main Gate, flanked by the Stone Bridge and the Iron Double Bridge, with the Fushimi watchtower peeking from afar, remains etched in our consciousness as our main portrayal of the Palace itself. Tranquil waters reflect the lush greenery and historic stone walls of the Imperial Palace East Gardens, creating a serene setting amidst the urban backdrop. If you do go to see the Sakashitamon Gate , you will find the entrance to the palace gardens about a five-minute walk away by following the paths towards the entrance, which is on the roadside (it's marked with signs). The entrance to the gardens is the original for those entering the main keep of the now-ruined Edo Castle, all those years ago. Exploring the majestic entrance of the Imperial Palace East Gardens. An interesting fact, that made this entrance a particular highlight, is that the guards of the castle gate consisted of fudai daimyo (feudal lords who had supported the ruling Tokugawa house). They only qualified if they had contributed at least 100,000 koku to the rulers. Back then, land was measured by the amount of rice produced; one koku was around 150kg of rice (enough to feed one man for a year). Quick math, that is 1.5 million kilos of rice to be a guard! The construction of the gate was carried out by Todo Takatora in 1606, and it was reconstructed in 1659 after it was destroyed in the great Meireki Fire of 1657. The present Kõrai Gate dates back to then, and the Watariyagura Gate (the two-story gate, with a room its upper story) was rebuilt in 1966. There is a shachihoko (a mythical tiger-headed carp) inside the gate from the former Watariyagura Gate, with the inscription "Meireki 3, year of the rooster". Twisting branches frame a tranquil pond surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage in the Imperial Palace East Gardens. Once inside the garden, it blew us away with its tranquil peace, incredible photo opportunities, and blissful nature. There is a lot to see, and you can easily spend a good few hours walking around trying to see it all. We particularly enjoyed the Ninomaru Pond, with its beautifully manicured surroundings including a mini waterfall and plenty of vibrant carp. Feel free to download the map below to help you find your favorite spot! The wonderful colors the trees were putting out, and the shades of fall made the Imperial Palace Gardens a real treat, but in keeping with our love of old historical sites , the Edo Castle remains played a prominent part in the walkaround too. The walls are an awesome sight, still standing tall today despite the rapid decline of the main castle and its keep. As we are big fans of history we loved that infusion of nature around the ruins, even if the castle keep ruins are a tad underwhelming. We did sense the past here, though; it felt like an area of high energy, and we love that. It may just be gardens, but it comes with a lot attached to it, and with that, leaving us that little bit more attached to Japan itself, too! The History Behind the Imperial Palace Gardens in Tokyo The story of the Imperial Palace East Gardens is intricately woven into the fabric of Japanese history, reflecting a captivating tale of power, transformation, and ultimately, accessibility. ⪢ From Edo Castle to Imperial Residence The land where the gardens now flourish once held a powerful symbol - Edo Castle, the seat of the Tokugawa shoguns who ruled Japan from 1603 to 1867. This colossal castle complex, encompassing multiple fortified circles, served as the center of political and military authority for over two centuries. The massive stone walls of Edo Castle rise prominently within the serene setting of the Imperial Palace East Gardens, showcasing the architectural grandeur and historical significance of this iconic Japanese site. ⪢ A New Era Dawns The year 1868 marked a pivotal turning point in Japanese history with the Meiji Restoration, which led to the overthrow of the Tokugawa shogunate and the establishment of a new imperial government. Emperor Meiji, the symbol of this new era, chose Edo Castle as his residence and renamed it the Imperial Palace. ⪢ Transformation & Public Access The Meiji period witnessed significant changes within the palace grounds. Extensive fires and earthquakes, coupled with the desire for a more modern palace complex, led to the demolition of most Edo Castle structures. In the 20th century, a new chapter unfolded. A cabinet decision in 1960 authorized a renovation project, resulting in the construction of a new Imperial Palace on the western portion of the grounds. This paved the way for the transformation of the eastern section into the Imperial Palace East Gardens, which officially opened to the public in 1968. Pathway through lush greenery and manicured shrubs at the Imperial Palace East Gardens, offering a serene escape in the heart of the city. ⪢ A Glimpse Into the Past While the grand structures of Edo Castle are no more, the East Gardens retain remnants of the past, offering a unique glimpse into the castle's legacy. The Honmaru, the former main circle of the castle, now features a vast lawn marking the location of the once-majestic keep. Visitors can climb the ruins of the castle tower base, offering panoramic views of the city. The Ninomaru, the secondary circle, showcases a beautiful Japanese-style garden, meticulously recreated based on its historical design. This serene space, particularly captivating during autumn, offers a stark contrast to the bustling city around it. ⪢ A Symbol of Transformation The transformation of the Imperial Palace East Gardens from a place of power and defense to a public space accessible to all holds immense significance. It embodies the evolution of Japan's political landscape and its dedication to preserving its historical legacy while offering citizens a haven of beauty and tranquility within the heart of the capital. Fun Facts About the Imperial East Palace Gardens ⪢ Secret Garden? Not quite! While the Imperial Palace itself remains closed to the public, the East Gardens offer a rare glimpse into the once-hidden grounds of the Emperor. ⪢ Cherry Blossom Hotspot The Ninomaru Garden transforms into a sea of pink during springtime, boasting over 200 cherry blossom trees, making it a popular spot for picnics and photo ops. ⪢ Hidden Pheasants During springtime, the ground transforms into a vibrant yellow carpet with over 70,000 "pheasant's eye" flowers, a captivating sight! ⪢ Royal Jogging Route The East Gardens were once a private jogging ground for the Imperial family, and today is one of the most popular jogging routes in Tokyo, offering a scenic and historical backdrop for runners. ⪢ Hidden History The Ninomaru Garden, designed in the 17th century, boasts a hidden "crane and turtle" island symbolizing longevity and prosperity. ⪢ Secret Samurai Spot The Sakuradamon Gate, the main entrance to the East Gardens, was once guarded by samurai warriors during the Edo period. ⪢ Hidden Pheasant Eyes During spring, keep an eye out for the vibrant yellow "pheasant's eye" flowers (Amur adonis) carpeting the ground, adding a charming touch to the gardens. Tips for Visiting & Entry Information Here are some important things or tips to know before visiting the Imperial Palace East Gardens: ⪢ Opening Hours The Imperial Palace East Gardens are open to the public from 9 am to 4 pm, 5 days per week. The gardens are closed on Mondays and Fridays. ⪢ Free Entry Admission to the Imperial Palace East Gardens is free   for all visitors. A tranquil view of the Imperial Palace East Gardens, featuring manicured trees and seasonal foliage, with modern buildings providing a contrasting backdrop. ⪢ Respectful Attire While there is no strict dress code, it's recommended to dress modestly and respectfully, especially since the gardens are located near the Imperial Palace. ⪢ No Food or Drinks Eating and drinking are not permitted within the gardens. However, there are vending machines and cafes located near the entrance and exit points. ⪢ Comfortable Shoes The gardens are quite vast, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking. ⪢ Limited Facilities There are no restrooms or storage facilities within the gardens. Restrooms can be found near the Otemon Gate and Sakuradamon Gate entrances. ⪢ Respectful Behavior As a public space, be mindful of noise levels and avoid littering. ⪢ Seasonal Beauty The gardens offer stunning scenery throughout the year. Spring boasts vibrant cherry blossoms, while autumn showcases a breathtaking display of fall foliage. How to Get to Imperial Palace East Gardens Here are a few convenient transportation options to get to the Imperial Palace East Gardens from central Tokyo: By Subway ● Otemachi Station:  Several Tokyo Metro lines converge here (Chiyoda, Tozai, Marunouchi, Hanzomon, and Mita lines), offering a direct route to the gardens' Otemon Gate. ● Tokyo Station:  This major station provides subway connectivity (Marunouchi Line) and is only a short walk (approximately 15 minutes) from the gardens. By Train (JR Lines) ● Tokyo Station:  Served by multiple JR lines, including the Yamanote, Chuo-Sobu, Keihin-Tohoku, Ueno Tokyo, Yokosuka, and Keiyo lines, Tokyo Station is a convenient hub. A short walk brings you to the gardens. If you plan on traveling extensively by train, consider purchasing a JR Pass with Klook. It can save you money if you'll be using JR lines frequently during your stay in Japan, and it is a very popular option for tourists. By Bus Various bus routes stop close to the Imperial Palace East Gardens. However, navigating the bus system can be slightly more challenging for non-Japanese speakers, so we would not recommend this. Additional Tips ● Google Maps:  An excellent tool for navigating Tokyo's public transportation system. Simply search for "Imperial Palace East Gardens" in Google Maps   (or tap the map below) . ● Hyperdia:  Use Hyperdia  to find the most efficient travel routes and timetables for train journeys within Japan. ● Taxi:  Taxis are a viable but more expensive option. Let your driver know that you're going to the "Kokyo Higashi Gyoen" (Imperial Palace East Gardens). ⪢ Consider Taking a Tour One of the most popular ways to explore Tokyo is by tour. We recommend checking out the vast number of different options with GetYourGuide. No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination. 🎟️ Book your tickets here ⪢ Visitor Information for Imperial Palace East Gardens ● Address: 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan ● Phone: (+81) 332132050 ● Opening hours: Closed on Mondays and Fridays. Open every other day from 9 am to 4 pm. ● Website: kunaicho.go.jp Where to Stay in Tokyo Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Tokyo hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Watch on YouTube Tokyo, Japan, is a remarkable city! We arrive to explore this state-of-the-art technological and visual art capital. We quickly grew fond of the 7-11, a staple of Tokyo culture. We explored the subway to visit Shibuya Crossing, visited the iconic red lantern at Senso-ji Temple, and enjoyed the shops leading up to it. After a traditional Japanese lunch, we crossed the Sumida River Walk Bridge. Join us for 5 days of exploring Tokyo's diverse experiences, offering a great itinerary and valuable resource for anyone visiting the city. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Experience Rating: Imperial Palace East Gardens Looking for an affordable (meaning FREE can’t beat that) activity to do while in Tokyo? Well, this is a great one! Spend a morning exploring the palace grounds and gardens before heading into the city (the shopping district of Hibiya is just a short walk away). The gardens were remarkable at the time of year we visited (November), so we can only imagine it in the spring and summer months. Cherry blossoms anyone? As ever thank you for reading, and please feel free to share your experience, or ask any questions you may have, in the comments below. FAQ: Imperial Palace East Gardens – Plan Your Visit What are the Imperial Palace East Gardens? They are the publicly accessible gardens of the Imperial Palace grounds in central Tokyo. They sit on the former site of Edo Castle, the Tokugawa shogunate’s political hub. Where are the gardens located? The gardens are in Chiyoda City, Tokyo, near Tokyo Station, Otemachi Station, and Takebashi Station. It's one of the most peaceful spots right in the heart of the city. 💡 Follow signs for "Higashi Gyoen" — the Japanese name for East Gardens. What can I see there? You’ll find: ● Ruins of Edo Castle, including stone foundations and moats ● Ninomaru Garden – a tranquil Japanese-style landscape garden ● Seasonal flowers, plum trees, and bamboo groves ● Guardhouses and defensive gates from the Edo period Is there an entrance fee? No, entry is completely free for all visitors. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to stroll, picnic, or take a break from the busy city. What are the opening hours? Generally open from 9 am to 4:30 pm, with the last entry at 4 pm. Closed on Mondays and Fridays, and during special Imperial events or bad weather. ⏳ Always check the official website for updated hours or closures. How long does a visit take? You can enjoy the gardens in 1 to 2 hours, depending on how deeply you explore the grounds or stop for photos and relaxation. Are there any guided tours available? While there are no formal tours inside the East Gardens, free brochures and maps are provided. Some third-party walking tours of the Imperial Palace area include this stop. Is it accessible for those with limited mobility? Yes, the gardens are flat and well-paved, with accessible toilets and resting spots throughout. Are food and drinks allowed? You may bring drinks and non-disruptive snacks, but picnicking on the lawns is discouraged. Be respectful of the historic nature of the grounds. What’s nearby that I can combine with this visit? Tokyo Station (a short walk away) Nijubashi Bridge (in the Imperial Palace outer grounds) Kitanomaru Park and the National Museum of Modern Art Chidorigafuchi moat during the cherry blossom season Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing For peace of mind abroad, we recommend travel insurance. SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies, with options for adventure sports and electronics theft. SafetyWing's Complete Plan  offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits. Book Transport Taxis, Trains, Planes, Buses & Ferries in Advance Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless transport booking experience. With booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Interactive Map Japan Check out all of the places we visited in Japan courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap a number for more information, including our blog posts and links to reviews. Wanderlog  is a free travel planning app where you can create itineraries, organize flights, hotels, and car reservations, view places to visit, and collaborate with friends. Closer Lives Travel Hub Destinations, Tips & Essentials Head over to our Travel Hub – it’s packed with free country guides, helpful travel blogs, videos from the road, and tips to help you travel smarter (and cheaper!). Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already out exploring, we've got resources to help you every step of the way. Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto is a manga-themed hotel that is great for digital nomads like us, and general travelers too. The hotel offers a variety of amenities that are perfect for remote workers, including fast WiFi, comfortable workspaces, and a library of manga. The hotel is also located close to many of Kyoto's most popular attractions, making it easy to get around. Tavinos has an awesome and unique manga theme, with artwork and characters from popular manga series displayed throughout the hotel , which we loved. The rooms are also manga-themed too! Isn't there just so much to enjoy about Japan ? There are a variety of room types, including standard rooms, twin rooms, and family rooms. It also has several handy services, including automated luggage storage, self-check-in, free unlimited coffee and tea machines, free breakfast snacks, and coin-operated laundry (which is always super handy for travelers). In This Post... ● The Room ● The Facilities ● How to Get There ● Tips for Visiting ● Things to Do See More... ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Ratings ● FAQ Travel Resources ● Get Travel Insurance ● Book Transport ● Interactive Map ● Closer Lives Travel Hub The Room at Hotel Tavinos We had a standard double room which was decorated in the same theme as the main hallways and lobby. It was small, but the best use was made of the space by adding the table area on the side of the bed, a handy ledge above the pillows for electronics and charging, and storage space beneath the bed for luggage. The room comes with a TV; however, there is a strict no-eating policy. There is a phone for emergencies and also the lighting in the hallway was automatic (which timed out after a minute, but prior to us knowing led to a frantic search for the switch!). A cozy room at Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto features a unique design with a vibrant mural of Mount Fuji, complemented by matching bed linens and modern furnishings. There is air-conditioning and the bed was not the most comfortable, but perfectly manageable. Modern and compact bathroom at Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto, showcasing sleek design with a high-tech toilet and vibrant geometric tiles for a stylish touch. The WIFI worked okay with reasonable speeds for downloading, streaming, and working, but it was not as fast and stable as the lobby area. There was no safe, mini fridge or wardrobe or shelving (although there was a small coat rack). This was a slight downer, alongside having no formal seating area that could have been provided where Jenn is standing below. Bundled up for the chilly weather, a guest captures memories at Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto. As in most Japanese hotels and even Airbnb's, the bathrooms are pretty small. This one was as tight as you can get, but it was modern, clean, and had everything we needed. Of course, the toilet seat is in true Japanese style too, with seat heating options, cleaning buttons, and even sounds! The shower was decent with good pressure and temperature, and shower gel & shampoo were included, which we appreciate as we like to travel light. Hotel Tavinos Facilities ⪢ Hotel Products Even though you do get some basic toiletries in the room, there is an expansive collection in the lobby which is free to select from and use. This is fairly unusual for a hotel, but a nice touch! You can get dressing gowns, cotton buds, slippers, toothbrushes and toothpaste. Perfect if you arrive late and are caught short! A guest at Hotel Tavinos Kyoto browses through neatly stacked amenities in a vibrant, artfully designed hallway featuring colorful, bold graphics and traditional Japanese accents. ⪢ Lobby & Dining Area The lobby and dining area at Hotel Tavinos is spacious and stylish. It is decorated with manga artwork and characters as with the rest of the hotel, and it has a comfortable seating area where you can relax or work. There is unlimited coffee and tea available, and every morning the hotel provides some small cakes and snacks for breakfast. A cozy reading corner at Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto features a playful cushion on a modern chair and a wide selection of colorful manga on display. A cozy corner at Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto features modern seating, vibrant comic-inspired decor, and a collection of manga for guests to enjoy. The expansive windows offer a glimpse of the bustling city outside, adding to the unique ambiance. We love books, and there is a cool free-to-use manga library too, with plenty to choose from. Worth checking out! Vibrant pop art decor creates a lively atmosphere at the stylish lounge area of Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto. ⪢ Laundry Always a real bonus for travelers, the hotel offers laundry facilities, including dryers, which are coin-operated and very efficient! Laundry facility at Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto featuring modern coin-operated washers and dryers, alongside playful wall art, adding charm to the space. ⪢ Workspace Area The workspace area in the Hotel Tavinos is clean, quiet, and very comfortable. Each table has plugs for charging, and the WiFi works very well. There is a toilet nearby too, so you can focus without having to go to your room. A vibrant and modern lounge area at Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto features uniquely designed cushions and a stylish urban atmosphere. Bright and colorful seating area in Hotel Tavinos, Kyoto, featuring quirky patterned chairs and vibrant table designs, offering a lively atmosphere for guests. ⪢ Outdoor Balcony As we were here in December, it was still fairly cold, so we did not use this space. But it is beautifully presented and also provides another option if you would prefer to eat or work outside. There is no smoking permitted here though; you have to leave the hotel grounds for that. Modern and inviting exterior view of Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto, featuring a stylishly illuminated terrace with lush greenery overlooking the bustling streets below. Nighttime cityscape from the balcony at Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto, showcasing vibrant street life and illuminated storefronts. ⪢ Luggage Storage We did not need to take advantage of this facility, but we have to say it is an excellent touch. For a small charge, you can keep your bags secure for up to 24 hours, which is handy if you have a late flight or want to make use of your time luggage-free. The baggage storage area at Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto features a secure locker system with clear instructions for guests to manage their luggage during their stay. ⪢ Self Check-In / Check Out This was an absolute first for us! We have used these types of machines plenty of times in airports, but never in hotels. It worked well, asking all the usual questions and scanning our passports on check-in. On check out, we literally popped our room key into it and we were good to go. Brilliant. A guest uses the self-check-in machines at Hotel Tavinos in Kyoto, set against a colorful, artistic backdrop. ⪢ 7-Eleven Convenience Store If you have not experienced a 7-Eleven store in Japan, then you have to try. The options available here are unlike any other local store you have tried. Trust us! We like to call the food here gourmet because it is. There are a ton of fancy options, from main meals to snacks, sweet food to savory. It can be heated for you, and cutlery will always be provided. Prices are reasonable too! Of course in addition you can pick up toiletries and other bits and bobs. It was ideal to have this right beneath the hotel, with direct access from the elevator down from the hotel lobby. How to Get to Hotel Tavinos Kyoto Hotel Tavinos Kyoto is conveniently located near several public transportation options, making it easily accessible from various points in the city. Here's how you can reach the hotel: From Kyoto Station ⪢ By Bus ● At Kyoto Station Bus Terminal A2, board Kyoto Municipal Bus numbers 4, 17, or 205. ● Alight at the Kawaramachi Gojo Bus Stop; the hotel is directly in front of this stop. By Train ● Kiyomizu-gojo Station:  Take the Keihan Main Line to Kiyomizu-gojo Station. From there, it's a 3-minute walk to the hotel. ● Gojo Station:  Ride the Kyoto Municipal Subway to Gojo Station. The hotel is a 7-minute walk from this station. ● Kyoto Kawaramachi Station:  Use the Hankyu Kyoto Line to reach Kyoto Kawaramachi Station. The hotel is about a 10-minute walk from here. From Kansai International Airport ⪢ By Train & Bus ● Take the Kansai Airport Line Limited Express Haruka to Kyoto Station (approximately 90 minutes). ● Then, transfer to Kyoto Municipal Bus numbers 4, 17, or 205 at Kyoto Station Bus Terminal A2. ● Disembark at Kawaramachi Gojo Bus Stop; the hotel is right in front of you. From Osaka International Airport ⪢ By Bus ● Board the limousine bus bound for Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit and get off at Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit (about 55 minutes). ● Then, transfer to the bus (Shijo Yamashina Daigo Line 312 Keihan Rokuike Jizo area) at Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit Bus Stop, which is a 1-minute walk from the station. ● Get off at Kawaramachi Gojo bus stop (about 13 minutes); the hotel is right in front of you. ⪢ Book Your Stay If you would like to book a stay, make your reservation here . ⪢ Contact Information for Hotel Tavinos ● Address: 612番地 Azuchicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8040, Japan ● Phone: + 81 75-320-4111 ● Website: hoteltavinos.com ● Enquiries: Tavinos Hotel ● Instagram: @hoteltavinos_kyoto Tips for Visiting Hotel Tavinos Kyoto ● Book early for the best rates: Kyoto is a popular destination year-round, so reserving your room well in advance ensures better availability and pricing, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom and autumn foliage. ● Choose a room with a view: Many rooms offer stunning cityscape or temple views—request a higher floor or corner room when booking for the best experience. ● Use public transport nearby: Hotel Tavinos is conveniently located near major subway and train stations. Purchase an IC card (like Suica or ICOCA) for easy travel around Kyoto and the Kansai region. ● Pack light and travel smart: The hotel offers efficient luggage storage and delivery services, handy if you plan to explore before check-in or after check-out. ● Enjoy local dining options: The area around the hotel has a variety of authentic Japanese restaurants and cafes—ask the concierge for recommendations. ● Check amenities and extras: Take advantage of the hotel’s free Wi-Fi, laundry services, and any seasonal promotions or package deals available during your stay. Things to Do Near Hotel Tavinos Kiyomizu-Dera Temple Image: japan-guide.com This is one of the most famous temples in Kyoto; it's located on a hill overlooking the city, and it offers stunning views. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Image: tripadvisor.com A beautiful bamboo forest, located in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. Kinkaku-ji Temple Image: japan-guide.com Known for its golden pavilion, which is a beautiful example of Japanese architecture. Gion Image: japan-guide.com This is a traditional geisha district in Kyoto, and it is a great place to wander around and explore. Nishiki Market Image: japan-guide.com Famous market known for it's souvenirs, snacks, local produce, and a vibrant atmosphere. Maruyama Park Image: japan-guide.com Located in the center of Kyoto. The park is a great place to relax, go for a walk, or have a picnic. Watch on YouTube Tokyo, Japan, is a remarkable city! We arrive to explore this state-of-the-art technological and visual art capital. We quickly grew fond of the 7-11, a staple of Tokyo culture. We explored the subway to visit Shibuya Crossing, visited the iconic red lantern at Senso-ji Temple, and enjoyed the shops leading up to it. After a traditional Japanese lunch, we crossed the Sumida River Walk Bridge. Join us for 5 days of exploring Tokyo's diverse experiences, offering a great itinerary and valuable resource for anyone visiting the city. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Experience Ratings: Hotel Tavinos We had a fantastic stay here, enjoying the ease of being within walking distance from the famous Nishiki Market while utilizing the excellent WIFI and lobby area to work. There is also the bonus of a 7-Eleven convenience store directly beneath the hotel, with direct access from the lobby to the store without even having to go outside. It had everything we needed! Cleanliness The hotel was very clean throughout; no complaints here. The bathroom in the workspace area was a little smelly, but nothing major. The room was spotless. Cost & Value for Money We booked Hotel Tavinos through Airbnb, and it was prior to Japan opening fully from COVID, so prices may have been slightly cheaper. We paid CAD 58 per night, which we feel was a great price for our experience. Food The hotel does not provide food service, probably because of the 7-Eleven, but it was nice that they offered tea, coffee, and some breakfast snacks at no extra cost. No eating in the room was a bit of a bind, though, and that took our score down to a four. Location Hotel Tavinos is in a great spot in Kyoto. It is within walking distance of the train stations, the main high street, and the Nishiki Market. It is easy to find and overall is very convenient as a base for exploring the city. Service The service was efficient and effective. Communication was a little tricky as English was limited, but with self-check-in and out, there was not much need for that anyway. It was a nice touch to see a Christmas tree in the lobby, and overall, we felt very comfortable and welcome here. The Room The room was small, which was to be expected, and whilst it did make good use of the space, the lack of storage and sitting space was a little annoying. The WiFi in the room was also a bit hit-and-miss, although forcing us into the beautiful workspace area was not necessarily a bad thing. The bed was also a little hard, but overall it was ok. FAQ: Hotel Tavinos Kyoto – What You Should Know Before Booking Where is Hotel Tavinos Kyoto located? The hotel is in the Higashiyama district, near Kiyomizu-Gojo Station on the Keihan Line. It's within walking distance of Gion and other key attractions. 💡 Great location for first-time visitors looking to explore Kyoto on foot or by public transport. What’s the concept behind the hotel? Hotel Tavinos Kyoto follows a manga-inspired theme, with comic-style graphics throughout the building, from walls to bed linen. It's designed to be youthful, efficient, and playful. What are the rooms like? Rooms are compact but cleverly designed with smart storage, modern bathrooms, and comic-book flair. Most rooms are private twin or double pods — ideal for solo travelers or couples. Is it suitable for digital nomads or long stays? While rooms are not spacious, the hotel offers a clean and fast Wi-Fi connection, USB outlets, and work-friendly spaces in the communal lounge. Better for short-term stays or city breaks. Does the hotel include breakfast or dining options? No breakfast is included, but vending machines, a microwave, and nearby 24/7 convenience stores make it easy to grab a bite. You're also close to Kyoto’s many local eateries. Is the hotel quiet and secure? Yes — despite its playful look, the hotel offers secure keycard access, luggage storage, and a relatively quiet environment with 24/7 reception. What amenities are available? ● Free Wi-Fi ● Self-check-in/out kiosks ● Coin laundry ● Manga library in the lounge ● Smart concierge robot for recommendations Is it good value for money? Absolutely — it’s one of Kyoto’s most affordable themed hotels, offering a unique stay without compromising comfort or location. Can I store my luggage before or after check-in? Yes — they offer free luggage storage on the day of arrival and checkout, making it easy to explore the city without bags. Who is it best for? Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, solo tourists, couples, and anyone who appreciates quirky, themed accommodations in a well-connected area. Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing For peace of mind abroad, we recommend travel insurance. SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies, with options for adventure sports and electronics theft. SafetyWing's Complete Plan  offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits. Book Transport Taxis, Trains, Planes, Buses & Ferries in Advance Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless transport booking experience. With booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Interactive Map Japan Check out all of the places we visited in Japan courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap a number for more information, including our blog posts and links to reviews. Wanderlog  is a free travel planning app where you can create itineraries, organize flights, hotels, and car reservations, view places to visit, and collaborate with friends. Closer Lives Travel Hub Destinations, Tips & Essentials Head over to our Travel Hub – it’s packed with free country guides, helpful travel blogs, videos from the road, and tips to help you travel smarter (and cheaper!). Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already out exploring, we've got resources to help you every step of the way. Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Welcome to our guide to the Sensoji Temple in Asakusa Kannon, Tokyo! The Sensoji Temple is one of Tokyo's oldest and most revered temples, attracting millions of visitors every year. With a rich history dating back over 1,300 years, this temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture, religion, and historic places . Located in the heart of Asakusa, a bustling neighborhood known for its traditional Japanese atmosphere, the Sensoji Temple is a symbol of cultural heritage in Tokyo . Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there's something special about this temple that will capture your imagination and leave you with unforgettable memories! In this post , we'll take you on a virtual tour of Sensoji Temple, introducing you to its history, architecture, and spiritual significance in Japan . We'll also provide tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your visit, from navigating the crowds to sampling local food and shopping for souvenirs. In This Post... ● The Heart of Tokyo ● Kaminarimon Gate ● The History ● Interesting Facts ● Open Hours & When To Go See More... ● Tips for Visiting ● Things to See and Do ● Omikuji ● How to Get There ● Where to Stay ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Rating ● FAQ Travel Resources ● Get Travel Insurance ● Book Transport ● Interactive Map ● Closer Lives Travel Hub Sensoji Temple: The Heart of Tokyo Sensoji Temple was our first stop in our tour of Tokyo and stepping through the gates of Hozo-mon and Kaminarmon was like being transported to another world. The air was filled with the sound of bells and the smell of incense. The temple itself was a riot of color, with red lanterns hanging from the eaves and gold leaf adorning the pillars. As we walked through the temple, taking in the sights and sounds, we saw people praying, bowing, and offering incense. Leon enjoys the vibrant atmosphere of Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan, with the iconic pagoda and bustling crowds in the background. We saw children running and playing. We saw couples sitting together, lost in conversation. We saw monks, Geisha girls, photographers, fascinated tourists, and interested scholars. The sense of peace and tranquility, despite being amongst masses of people, was a paradox that we will always remember. Enjoying a sunny day at Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, with vibrant red architecture and the iconic pagoda in the background. ⪢ What is a pagoda? Pagodas are tower-like structures that can be seen at many Buddhist temples around the world. Also known as a stupa, they contain the ashes of the Buddha. In India, where Buddhism was born, stupas were originally dome-shaped. They changed to the tower shape, like that of Sensoji Temple, in the years that followed Buddhism's introduction in China . Visitors in traditional kimonos explore the historic grounds of Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan, capturing memorable moments. The temple was a feast for the senses with just so much to see and do. Milling around the cute stores of Nakimise-dori was super fun, while there are a host of other cool statues and places of worship that seem to be just about everywhere. For us, it was a dream come true, like plucking the temple directly out of the plethora of photos we have seen it in and dreamt about. It was right there, all around us, in this marvelous complex with over one thousand years of history. Intricate ceiling art and vibrant architectural details inside the historic Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan, showcase traditional craftsmanship and cultural beauty. Wonderful architecture, especially against the backdrop of a clear blue sky, can do wonders for the energy and vibrancy of a place. It just so happened that we managed to find ourselves here on a day like that, and we were most grateful! Aside from the spiritual aspects of being here, photos come out pretty well, even with the throws of thousands of people. We were particularly impressed with the inside of the temple: a dazzling array of red and white, beautiful lanterns, and epic artwork. It really is a special place and we can totally see why it is the most visited temple in the world. Visitors gather at the grand entrance of Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan, under a clear blue sky. Kaminarimon Gate - The Thunder Gate of Asakusa Kaminarimon Gate is the iconic entrance gate to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. It's one of the most recognizable landmarks in Japan and is often featured in photographs and travel guides. The gate was originally built in 942 AD, but it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history. The current version of Kaminarimon Gate dates back to 1960 and features a towering red lantern and two massive wooden statues of gods. Visitors gather at the iconic Kaminarimon Gate at Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and historic architecture. Visitors pass beneath the iconic red lantern at the entrance of Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan, as they explore the vibrant surroundings and traditional architecture. The giant red lantern, which measures 3.3 meters in diameter and weighs 700 kilograms, is a symbol of the gate and is often featured in pictures. The lantern is inscribed with the gate's name, Kaminarimon, which means "Thunder Gate." Its more formal name is Furaijinmon, which means “the gate of the wind god and thunder god,” and this is represented by the characters on the back of the lantern. This style of lantern is called a “chochin”, consisting of a spiral bamboo frame covered in hundreds of sheets of paper. This type of frame allows the lantern to collapse during the Sanja Matsuri festival when portable shrines need to pass through the gate. The lantern has been remade five times since 1960 by specialist lantern makers in Kyoto, the current version you see today having been installed in 2003. Visitors gather under the iconic red lantern at Kaminarimon, the Thunder Gate of Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan, marking the bustling entrance to this historic site. The two statues on either side of the gate are known as Fujin and Raijin. Fujin is the god of wind, and Raijin is the god of thunder. The statues are over 3 meters tall and are carved from Japanese cypress wood. Passing through the Kaminarimon Gate is a symbolic act that represents leaving the secular world and entering the spiritual world of the temple. The gate leads visitors to Nakamise-dori, a vibrant shopping street that leads to the main hall of Sensoji Temple. The Kaminarimon is free to visit and accessible at all times. We went through the gate at perhaps the busiest time of midday, and unsurprisingly it was very crowded and congested. It is illuminated in the evenings, and as there are fewer crowds at night, so this might be the best time to visit if you are looking to take photos and videos without the tourists! The overhanging cherry blossoms aren't real, but they look super cool! History of Sensoji Temple in Tokyo The Sensoji Temple, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple, has a rich and fascinating history that spans over 1,300 years According to legend, the temple was founded in the year 628 CE, when two fishermen discovered a small statue of the Buddhist goddess Kannon in the Sumida River. They brought the statue to a local wealthy man named Hajino Nakatomo, who recognized its spiritual significance and enshrined it in a small temple that he built in his home. Over the centuries, the temple grew in popularity and importance, and it became a center of worship for the people of Edo (modern-day Tokyo) and beyond. Visitors walk beneath the iconic red lanterns and ornate architecture of Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan, capturing the essence of this historic and vibrant site. However, much of the temple's original structures were destroyed in the fires and earthquakes that plagued the city over the centuries. In 1649, the shogun Tokugawa Lemitsu commissioned the rebuilding of the temple, and it was given the name Sensoji, meaning "Asakusa Temple of the Thousand Lights." The temple was designed in the distinctive style of the Edo period, with large wooden buildings and colorful roofs adorned with intricate carvings and paintings. During World War II, the temple suffered significant damage from bombing raids, but it was rebuilt after the war with the help of donations from the Japanese people. Today, Sensoji Temple remains one of Tokyo's most important cultural and religious landmarks, attracting millions of visitors from around the world every year. In addition to its spiritual significance, Sensoji Temple is also known for its unique cultural and artistic heritage. The temple houses several important cultural artifacts, including a set of dragon paintings by the renowned Edo-period artist Kanō Sanraku, as well as numerous statues, scrolls, and other treasures. Throughout its long and storied history, the Sensoji Temple has been a symbol of Tokyo's enduring cultural heritage and a testament to the resilience of the Japanese people in the face of adversity. Whether you're a religious pilgrim or a curious traveler, a visit to this remarkable temple is an unforgettable experience, especially with this kind of history. Read on for more information on how to get there, temple visiting times, and our Sensoji Temple rating. 10 Interesting Facts About the Sensoji Temple 1. Sensoji Temple is the oldest and most significant Buddhist temple in Tokyo, Japan . It was founded in the year 628 CE, making it over 1,300 years old. The temple is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy and compassion. The small statue of Kannon that was discovered in the Sumida River is enshrined in the temple and is a major object of worship. 2. Sensoji Temple is the most visited temple in the world, with an estimated 30 million visitors per year. It is followed by the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, India , with an estimated 25 million visitors per year. The third most visited temple in the world is the Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia , with an estimated 20 million visitors per annum. 3. The temple is located in the Asakusa district of Tokyo, which is known for its traditional Japanese atmosphere, street food, and souvenir shops. Visitors admire the intricate statue and vibrant ceiling artwork at Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan, set amidst the beautiful autumn surroundings. 4. The Hozo-mon gate, the main entrance to the temple , is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Tokyo. It features a large red lantern that weighs almost 700 pounds and is over 4 feet in diameter. 5. Visitors to the temple can purify themselves by washing their hands and mouth with water from a large stone basin known as the chōzuya. 6. Sensoji Temple is home to a large pagoda that stands over 5 stories tall. The pagoda was originally built in the 7th century, but the current structure was built in 1648. 7. The temple's main hall, known as the Kannondo , houses the statue of Kannon and is one of the most important buildings in the complex. 8. Sensoji Temple is surrounded by a bustling street market called Nakamise-dori, which features dozens of shops selling traditional Japanese souvenirs and snacks. 9. The temple is a popular destination for Japanese festivals and events, including the Sanja Matsuri, one of Tokyo's largest and most famous festivals. 10. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times throughout its history, including after fires in the 17th and 18th centuries and bombings during World War II. However, it has always been rebuilt to its original design, making it a testament to the resilience of the Japanese people. ⪢ O-Waraji 'Big Straw Sandals' The large woven shoes at Sensoji Temple are called "O-Waraji" in Japanese, which translates to "big straw sandals." These sandals are a traditional form of footwear that was commonly worn by Japanese farmers and laborers in the past. The O-Waraji at Sensoji Temple is enormous, measuring over 4 meters in length and weighing about 2 tons each. They are displayed on a platform near the Hozomon Gate, one of the main gates of the temple. The shoes are made from straw, with the weaving technique passed down through generations of craftsmen. The giant O-Waraji at Sensoji Temple was first made in 1979 and was created to commemorate the 1,250th anniversary of the founding of the temple. The O-Waraji are considered to be a symbol of good luck and are said to bring success and prosperity to those who touch or walk through them. Visitors can walk through the giant sandals and make a wish, or simply touch them for good luck. A unique and fascinating part of the Sensoji Temple complex, the O-Waraji is a popular attraction for both tourists and locals alike. They are a great example of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and culture and are worth checking out when exploring the temple grounds. To be honest, you can't miss them! Sensoji Temple Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit The visiting times for Sensoji Temple vary depending on the season. Generally, the temple grounds are open to visitors year-round and there is no admission fee. ⪢ Opening Hours ● March to September: The temple is open from 6 am to 5 pm. ● October to February: The temple is open from 6:30 am to 5 pm. It's worth noting that the temple can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Additionally, some areas of the temple complex, such as the main hall, may have limited hours or require an additional fee to enter. Be sure to ask at the entrance for the latest information. ⪢ Best Time to Visit Sensoji Temple The best time to visit Sensoji Temple depends on your preferences and travel plans. Here are some factors to consider: ● Weather: Tokyo can be hot and humid in the summer, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). If you prefer cooler weather, consider visiting in the spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate. ● Crowds: Sensoji Temple is a popular destination year-round, but it can be especially crowded during Japanese holidays and festivals. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting on a weekday, early in the morning, or late in the afternoon. ● Seasonal Events: Sensoji Temple hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Sanja Matsuri in May and the Hagoita Market in December. If you're interested in attending a festival, plan your visit accordingly. ● Cherry Blossom Season: The cherry blossoms in Tokyo typically bloom in late March to early April, making it a popular time to visit Sensoji Temple and other sights in the city. However, this is also one of the busiest times of the year, so be prepared for large crowds. ● Best Time to Visit: Overall, the best time to visit Sensoji Temple is during the weekdays and during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are more manageable. Tips for Visiting Sensoji Temple Here are some important things to know when visiting Sensoji Temple: ⪢ Dress Appropriately As a religious site, it is important to dress modestly when visiting Sensoji Temple. Avoid wearing shorts, mini-skirts, or revealing tops. Also, be sure to remove your hat and shoes before entering the main hall. ⪢ Respect the Customs & Traditions Sensoji Temple is an active place of worship, so it is important to respect the customs and traditions of the temple. This includes bowing before the altar, refraining from taking photos in certain areas, and not touching any of the objects of worship. ⪢ Be Mindful of the Crowds Sensoji Temple is a popular destination and can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Be aware of your surroundings and be patient when navigating through the crowds. ⪢ Take Your Time to Explore The temple complex is quite large and there is much to see and experience. Take your time to explore the different areas, including the Hozo-mon gate , Nakamise-dori , and the Kannondo main hall . ⪢ Watch Out for Signs and Announcements Sensoji Temple has several rules and regulations, so be sure to watch for signs and announcements posted around the temple grounds. For example, some areas may be off-limits or require an additional fee to enter. ⪢ No Smoking on Temple Grounds As with all temples in Japan, and indeed even on the main streets of Tokyo, smoking is forbidden and subject to heavy fines. Refrain from doing so on temple grounds, and look for designated smoking areas if you need to light up. ⪢ Consider Taking a Tour One of the most popular ways to explore Tokyo is by tour. We recommend checking out the vast number of different options with GetYourGuide. No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination. 🎟️ Book your tickets here Things to See and Do at Sensoji Temple There are several things to do at Sensoji Temple and in the surrounding area of Asakusa. Here are a few suggestions that you can try: ⪢ Explore the Temple Complex Take your time to explore the different areas of the temple complex, including the Hozo-mon gate, the Nakamise-Dori shopping street, and the Kannondo main hall. There is plenty to see and you can easily get lost amongst the endless stores and beautiful monuments! Serene view of a courtyard at Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan, featuring a statue and incense burner against the backdrop of traditional architecture. ⪢ Light Some Incense One of the most popular activities at Sensoji Temple is to light an incense stick at the giant incense burner in front of the main hall. It is believed that the smoke from the incense has healing properties. ⪢ Try the Local Restaurants or Street Food Asakusa is known for its street food, and the area around Sensoji Temple is no exception. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as senbei (rice crackers), melon bread, or ningyo-yaki (small cake-like sweets shaped like dolls). There are also tons of tempting restaurants to try, many of them very local and traditional. We found this cute spot on the side road running parallel to Nakamise-dori shopping street. You will certainly feel the full Japanese restaurant experience here! It was very reasonable in price and the food was great. It was cash only though so be prepared if you do give it a try. ⪢ Visit the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center is located next to Sensoji Temple and offers great views of the surrounding area from its observation deck. The center also provides information on other attractions and events in Asakusa (in English too). ⪢ Take a Boat Ride on the Sumida River The Sumida River flows through Asakusa and offers great views of the city skyline. You can take a boat ride along the river to see some of the city's landmarks from a different perspective. Visitors stroll along the bustling path leading to Sensoji Temple, Tokyo, surrounded by vibrant decorations and autumn foliage under a clear blue sky. ⪢ Attend a Festival or Event at Sensoji Temple Sensoji Temple hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Sanja Matsuri in May and the Hagoita Market in December. Be sure to check the temple's event calendar to see what's happening during your visit. ⪢ Visit the Tokyo SkyTree The Tokyo SkyTree is a towering observation tower located a short distance from Sensoji Temple (just look up, you literally can't miss it . From the observation deck, you can enjoy incredible panoramic views of Tokyo and the surrounding area, weather permitting. Omikuji at Sensoji Temple - What is Omikuji? What is the name of the fortune-telling game at the Sensoji temple and other temples in Japan? That name is Omikuji, a traditional Japanese practice of fortune-telling found in many shrines and temples, including Sensoji Temple. It involves drawing a random paper strip that reveals a person's fortune or prediction for the future. Drawing a fortune at Sensoji Temple, Jenn engages in the traditional Japanese practice of omikuji, surrounded by colorful banners and wooden drawers. ⪢ How To Participate in Omikuji 1. Purchase an Omikuji: Look for the Omikuji stall or booth within the temple grounds. Usually, there will be a designated area where you can buy an Omikuji for a small fee. 2. Shake the Container: Once you have your Omikuji, shake a cylindrical container filled with numbered sticks. Shake it until one stick falls out. 3. Retrieve Your Numbered Stick: The stick you retrieve corresponds to a numbered drawer or compartment containing paper strips with different fortunes. 4. Obtain Your Fortune: Take the paper strip from the corresponding drawer. The strip will have your fortune written on it, ranging from very good luck (daikichi) to very bad luck (daikyo). 5. Read Your Fortune: Unfold the paper strip and read your fortune in detail. It may provide insights into various aspects of your life, such as health, love, career, or relationships. 6. Accept or Discard the Fortune: Depending on your fortune, you have options. If the fortune is positive, you may keep it as a good omen. If the fortune is negative, you can tie the strip to a designated area within the temple or shrine to leave the bad luck behind. Omikuji was a really fun and culturally enriching experience for us, providing a glimpse into Japanese beliefs and superstitions. It's a wonderful way to engage with the traditions and rituals of Sensoji Temple and other sacred places in Japan for sure. We felt the vibes here... will you? What will your fortune be? How to Get to Sensoji Temple There are several ways to get to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. Here are some of the most convenient options: By Train Take the Tokyo Metro Ginza line or the Toei Asakusa line to Asakusa Station. From there, it's just a short walk to Sensoji Temple. If you are coming from Tokyo's Narita International Airport, the most convenient way to get to Sensoji Temple is by the Keisei Skyliner . Take the Skyliner to Ueno Station, and transfer to the Tokyo Metro Ginza line  or Toei Asakusa line  to Asakusa Station. By Bus Take the Toei bus  or the Tobu bus  to the Asakusa Kaminarimon bus stop. It's a 5-minute walk to the temple from there. By Taxi Taxis are widely available in Tokyo, and you can simply tell the driver that you want to go to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. They are known to be on the pricey side, so be sure to settle your price before you head out. By Bike Asakusa is a bike-friendly area, and there are several bike rental shops in the area. You can rent a bike and cycle to Sensoji Temple and other nearby attractions. ⪢ Consider Taking a Tour One of the most popular ways to explore Tokyo is by tour. We recommend checking out the vast number of different options with GetYourGuide. No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination. 🔗 Book your tickets here Where to Stay in Tokyo Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Tokyo hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Watch on YouTube Tokyo, Japan, is a remarkable city! We arrive to explore this state-of-the-art technological and visual art capital. We quickly grew fond of the 7-11, a staple of Tokyo culture. We explored the subway to visit Shibuya Crossing, visited the iconic red lantern at Senso-ji Temple, and enjoyed the shops leading up to it. After a traditional Japanese lunch, we crossed the Sumida River Walk Bridge. Join us for 5 days of exploring Tokyo's diverse experiences, offering a great itinerary and valuable resource for anyone visiting the city. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Experience Rating: Sensoji Temple Sensoji Temple is one of the most visited temples in Japan for good reason! You can certainly feel the energetic presence here, and the temple itself is a wonderful place of pause, calm, and reflection. Even with the masses of people around us, we were completely enamored by this important site. There is plenty to do here alongside visiting the temple, and it is most certainly a must-see in Tokyo. The shopping street is awesome to walk through, too, and you can feel the Japanese tradition running through the entire area. For us it was the first temple we saw in Japan itself too so even just for this reason alone it will always hold a special space in our memories. As ever thank you for stopping by, and please feel free to share your experience, or ask any questions you may have, in the comments below. FAQ: Sensoji Temple – Tokyo’s Oldest Temple Explained What is the Sensoji Temple? Sensoji is Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, founded in the year 645 AD. It's dedicated to Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, and is one of the most visited spiritual sites in the world. Where is it located? Sensoji is in the Asakusa district of Tokyo, near the Sumida River. 📍 Nearest station: Asakusa Station, served by multiple subway lines (Ginza Line, Asakusa Line, Tobu Railway). Is there an entry fee? No. Entry is completely free. Visitors can explore the main temple grounds, pagoda, and surrounding areas without paying. 💡 Donations are welcome, and small offerings at the altar are traditional. What is the significance of the giant red lantern? The huge red lantern at the Kaminarimon (“Thunder Gate”) is a symbol of the temple and Tokyo itself. It represents thunder and wind gods, believed to protect the temple. What’s Nakamise Street? It’s the shopping street leading to the temple, filled with traditional snacks, souvenirs, and crafts. The market dates back centuries and is part of the experience. What rituals can visitors take part in? You can: ● Wash your hands and purify your mouth at the purification fountain ● Burn incense in the large cauldron (for good fortune) ● Draw omikuji fortune slips — good luck or bad, it’s all part of the fun! When is the best time to visit? Early morning or late evening for fewer crowds and better photos. For festivals, visit in late spring or summer during events like Sanja Matsuri. Is the temple accessible at night? Yes, while the main hall closes at 5 pm, the grounds remain open and beautifully illuminated into the evening. Is Sensoji still an active place of worship? Yes, it’s both a tourist site and a functioning place of worship. You’ll see locals praying, making offerings, or participating in Buddhist ceremonies. Are there other things to do nearby? Yes, visit the Asakusa Shrine, ride a rickshaw, cruise the Sumida River, or head to Tokyo Skytree , just a short trip away. Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing For peace of mind abroad, we recommend travel insurance. SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies, with options for adventure sports and electronics theft. SafetyWing's Complete Plan  offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits. Book Transport Taxis, Trains, Planes, Buses & Ferries in Advance Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless transport booking experience. With booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Interactive Map Japan Check out all of the places we visited in Japan courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap a number for more information, including our blog posts and links to reviews. Wanderlog  is a free travel planning app where you can create itineraries, organize flights, hotels, and car reservations, view places to visit, and collaborate with friends. Closer Lives Travel Hub Destinations, Tips & Essentials Head over to our Travel Hub – it’s packed with free country guides, helpful travel blogs, videos from the road, and tips to help you travel smarter (and cheaper!). Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already out exploring, we've got resources to help you every step of the way. Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Perhaps a glimpse of the future, this exhibition removes the boundaries of traditional art and puts your body right in the middle of it. Barefoot, we found ourselves touring a realm of wonder and stimulation. Be it plants, lights, mirrors, music, or even the sense of infinity, this is a museum that blends art, technology, and nature in a way that enhances our vision and senses like no museum we have ever visited before. This rising star of Japan recently confirmed its opening until 2027 due to huge demand. One in ten visitors to Japan come to teamLab Planets in Tokyo! Our visit to teamLab Planets Tokyo was part of our ten-day adventure in Japan , the very first country we visited on the Asian continent . We had such an amazing time exploring the city of Tokyo and its wonderful litany of attractions. History and architecture tend to be our natural attractions, but we always look for other out-of-the-box experiences, and teamLab Planets is most certainly in that category! In this post, we take a closer look at the exhibits, share tips for visiting, where to find teamLabs, and most importantly, how to book tickets. In This Post... ● Who Are teamLab Planets? ● What to Expect ● The Exhibits ● How Long is it? ● How Popular? See More... ● Tickets & Open Hours ● Tips for Visiting ● How to Get There ● Where to Stay in Tokyo ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Rating ● FAQ Travel Resources ● Get Travel Insurance ● Book Transport ● Interactive Map ● Closer Lives Travel Hub Who Are teamLab Planets? teamLab Planets is a collective of digital artists and creators who came together to push the boundaries of art and the human experience around it. Formed in 2001, this group of animators, engineers, artists, and programmers opened exhibits around the world before opening their very first body-immersive museum called Borderless in Odaiba, Japan , in 2018. “we are a interdisciplinary group of ultra-technologists whose collaborative practice seeks to navigate the confluence of art, science, technology, design and the natural world.” - teamLab Planets Visitors gather at the illuminated entrance of teamLab Planets Tokyo, featuring vibrant red digital art installations. Borderless has since closed, but further exhibitions in Saitama ( teamLab Acorn Forest ) and Osaka ( teamLab Botanical Garden ) opened before they added teamLab Planets Tokyo, and a very special 'reversible rotation' Vegan Ramen UZU Restaurant Tokyo  to their growing collection. What to Expect at teamLab Planets Tokyo While we do conduct a certain amount of research to find places to visit, we try not to look too deeply to maintain a good level of surprise. We were aware that there would be water and that we would be required to wear shorts. It was also advised that due to glass floors in certain exhibits, skirts and dresses were not advised. A visitor kneels amidst the mesmerizing lights of the "Infinite Crystal Universe" at teamLab Planets Tokyo, surrounded by a sea of glowing blue reflections. When we arrived, we were given an introduction to the immersive nature of the museum and offered the chance to download teamLab's Distributed Fire app, which makes The Infinite Crystal Universe even more interactive (although we did not try it). There is also a 'flame' feature involving the Universe of Fire Particles Falling from the Sky. Exploring the mesmerizing light installations at the Infinite Crystal Universe exhibit in teamLab Planets Tokyo. After the intro, we were taken to a locker room where you can store your shoes and bags. The museum does provide footwear for the outdoor Moss Garden of Resonating Microcosms but for this section only. After that, we followed our group to the Floating Flower Garden, and then from there, we were pretty much left to our own devices. There are different levels, from climbing the incline of the waterfall of lights to falling into the Soft Black Hole. Each exhibit is connected through dark hallways with minimal lighting and this helped us maintain our sense of focus between sections. Each one was so unique that it kind of took a lot out of us. The light displays in particular, combined with the mirrors, felt like they were tricking our sense of depth and vision. But do not get us wrong, this was all part of the fun. The Exhibits at teamLab Planets Tokyo ⪢ Moss Garden of Resonating Microcosms: Solidified Light Color, Sunrise and Sunset This is the first stop on the tour and is located outside. Having just taken off our shoes in the locker room, we were given returnable slides to wear for this exhibit. Even though it was pretty cold outside we did appreciate this one, although we were keen to head back into the warmth as soon as we could! Glowing, translucent forms radiate vibrant hues of blue, purple, and green at teamLab Planets Tokyo, creating an immersive and otherworldly atmosphere. This garden contains 'Ovoids' that change appearance with the sunrise and sunset. They are laid out tactfully across the moss garden. The ovoids are designed to reflect the world around them and shine on their own as night falls, independently using a total of 61 different colors to capture the environment around them. This exhibit is fully interactive, and the ovoids can be touched or pushed; they are designed to fall back and then rebound, releasing a resonating tone. The ovoids are also co-ordinated and resonate together, as one organism. Moss was one of the first terrestrial organisms to appear on Earth, which prior was a ball of sand and rock (on land). As mosses and ferns appeared, forests were created, and from there life as we know it pretty much exploded all over the globe. Mosses are poikilohydric , meaning the water content in the cells changes according to surrounding humidity levels. This means that moss can survive long periods without water, changing its color and shape dramatically when the air is dry versus when it is wet. ⪢ Floating Flower Garden: Flowers and I are of the Same Root, the Garden and I are One This striking zen flower garden consists of a three-dimensional mass of hanging orchids that are literally 'floating' above. They move up and down creating open spaces, allowing for freedom of movement. The floor, like several of the exhibits, is a mirror and as you immerse yourself in the flowers from above and below, alongside the soft music, you immediately feel a sense of calm and peace. This was one of our favorite exhibits and it was a really beautiful moment just cuddling together beneath the color and fragrance of the flowers. Plus, orchids are Leon's favorite! Visitors immerse themselves in a mirrored zen garden at teamLab Planets Tokyo, where reflections and floral displays create a captivating visual experience. Zen gardens are believed to have been created as a place for Zen priests to become one with nature. There is a story called "Nansen’s Flower" in which someone asked the monk Nansen about the famous saying, “Heaven and I are of the same root. All things and I are of the same substance,” remarking on how wonderful it was. Nansen, pointing to an orchid flower in the garden, replied, “People these days see this flower as if they were in a dream." In this work, people immerse themselves in flowers, becoming one with the garden. When someone continues to look at a flower closely, the flower looks back. At that moment, they become one with the flower and may truly see flowers for the first time. - teamLab Planets Most orchids can grow without soil by absorbing water from the air. The flowers in this exhibit are very much alive and well cared for, indeed even thriving in this environment. As teamLab's puts it, they are growing 'in mid-air'. 'It can be said that flowers are born to produce diversity. The most evolved orchids have chosen a diversity that overwhelms all other flowers, and it is that diversity that has allowed them to evolve to survive in a variety of places where no other plants exist' - teamLab Planets Flowering plants, the last to arrive on Earth, faced a crowded landscape. Unlike their predecessors, orchids, the latest bloomers in the floral world, couldn't simply root themselves in the already occupied soil. To carve out their niche, these resourceful plants took to the skies, evolving to thrive on rocks and trees, effectively becoming the first epiphytes or air plants. This unique adaptation not only ensured their survival but also paved the way for remarkable diversification. Today, orchids boast the most diverse collection among all plant families, with a staggering 10% of all known plant species belonging to this captivating group. A couple enjoys a serene moment surrounded by lush hanging flowers and reflections at the enchanting Zen Garden of teamLab Planets Tokyo. ⪢ The Infinite Crystal Universe In this exhibit, light points are used to create three-dimensional objects, with the lights extending infinitely in all directions. Coupled with the mirrored floor, this section was almost slightly disorientating in parts, but that is a part of the experience. We got lost in the mystique of the lights, weaving through them while taking some pretty epic photos and videos! With the teamLab app, you can use your smartphone to throw 'elements' into the Infinite Crystal Universe . We did not see this in action, regrettably, but if you do give it a try feel free to let us know about how it worked! ⪢ Soft Black Hole: Your Body Becomes a Space that Influences Another Body This was like walking in a giant room of beanbags! It was almost impossible to walk on, which is precisely the point. We took a moment to lay down and take in the softness of the surface, before crawling our way to the end. We were a little behind the main group at this point so there were few people here at the time. As intended, the more people there are, the more the space fluctuates and changes. We had to be aware of our bodies, not just to move forward but also because our footing was effectively out of our control. Great exhibit! In modern life we are surrounded by flat hard surfaces, so that in our daily lives we have lost consciousness of our bodies, we have forgotten them. In natural forests flat ground does not exist. This installation is a space to remind us of the body that we have forgotten in everyday life, and to make us more conscious of our body mass. - teamLab Planets ⪢ Waterfall of Light Particles at the Top of an Incline This was more of a walk-through exhibit on the way to the koi pool. You walk up the incline as continuous running water cascades through your feet, with beautiful lighting adding to the calming sound of the water itself. We weren't entirely clear on what the message was here, but it was still a cool experience. ⪢ Drawing on the Water Surface Created by the Dance of Koi and People This is the exhibit that will challenge you if you do not follow the 'wear shorts' advice! The water in here was almost knee-deep (and nice and warm too). At first, we thought it was 'just' fish and flowers being projected onto the water, and that it was not that impressive. Yet a few moments in, we became completely drawn by the beautiful movements of the 'koi' and the wide array of bold-colored flowers. A visitor captures the stunning kaleidoscope of colors at teamLab Planets Tokyo, wading through an immersive, reflective art installation. It became even more impressive as shadows seemed not to be an issue, almost as if the koi were being projected from below the surface. Then we realized that the koi were moving as we came towards or touched them. They did scatter if touched, and it was at this point that this exhibit moved up a notch in our book. teamLab even states that throughout the year, the flowers that bloom will change along with the seasons! The trajectory of the koi is determined by the movements of people and trace lines on the surface of the water. The work is rendered in real-time by a computer program that is in a continuous state of flux and is neither prerecorded nor on loop. At any point, all movements are unique and bespoke, which in our minds takes this exhibition to a whole other level! ⪢ Matter is Void This exhibit is an 'NFT' artwork and displays the words chosen by teamLab, “Matter is Void”. There is something here in terms of being able to download the artwork and have a unique piece due to the continuous revolving letters and rotations. This sounds pretty cool, but we do not understand it, so we just chose to simply check it out. Honestly, we found this exhibit to be a little disappointing. It is in a long, dark, rectangular room that offshoots from the Koi waters. There was a small bench to sit on in front of a large raised platform which was out of bounds. There was still water here too but not as deep. The artwork was not all too spectacular and with nothing else to do we moved on quickly. The idea behind it is certainly a modern one, but there was no information explaining it, and at the time, we did not even know it had anything to do with NFTs. There is more to read on the teamLab website, and if you are about NFTs, this may be the exhibit for you. ⪢ Expanding Three-Dimensional Existence in Transforming Space This space is filled with giant spheres of free-floating light. We were able to move freely between them and when touched the spheres would change color, and that color resonates, almost like a ripple, to the surrounding spheres and then eventually them all. This was super fun and a great spot for photos too. We found it to be very immersive, and we spent a good amount of time chilling in this one. A visitor captures the mesmerizing blue ambiance of teamLab Planets Tokyo, surrounded by immersive light and art installations. Kasane no Irome is the name in Japan given to seasonal colors created in silk and in the past, silk was so thin that the liner was transparent, often helping to create more complex colors. It is this principle that the spheres are modeled on, thus producing nine blurred colors: light in water, sunlight on water plants, morning glow, morning sky, sky at twilight, peach, plum, iris, and spring maple. The colors blue, red, and green are also used, producing a total of twelve colors for this exhibit. ⪢ Floating in the Falling Universe of Flowers This exhibit is one place you want to lie down in (and you can, there is no water here). The artwork of flowers is incredibly created in real-time, continuously rendering to create a magnificent feeling that everything you are watching will never be seen again. The art represents a seasonal year of flowers, from their birth and bloom to their withering and death. It streaks across the ceiling of the room as if spread out across the 'sky'. We felt like we were floating amongst a dazzling universe of nature as if becoming 'one' with the work. This was one of our favorites and we had a real moment here. ⪢ Universe of Fire Particles Falling from the Sky This interactive digital obelisk is located outside the museum, directly in front of the entrance. As with the exhibits inside, the obelisk is affected by touch and creates dark black spots as you stand on the tiles around it. It too is in a state of perpetual, continuous change. This vibrant piece highlights the importance and phenomenon of fire, using lines to represent combusting gas, breaking out into flames when the lines accumulate and cross. It is great to look at, and this is also an exhibit in which you can utilize the teamLab Distributed Fire app. If you launch the Distributed Fire app and approach this artwork, the flame will ignite and you can take the artwork home with you. When close to another person's smartphone, a flame will alight. As you connect the flame, and they connect that flame with someone else, the flame will spread all over the world. The flames that are spread are displayed on the Map of The Flame. How Much Time Will You Need at teamLab Planets Tokyo? teamLab Planets Tokyo is a whopping 10,000 sqm with ten exhibits in total. It took us just over one hour to get around. We also had the opportunity to go around a second time, so you could easily set aside 2 hours. As we weaved our way through the displays, with their synchronized music and beautiful lights, we felt ourselves almost floating in a world of amazement and wonder. Time had no bearing here! How Popular is teamLab Planets Tokyo? teamLab Planets in Tokyo is currently experiencing a surge in popularity. It ranked among the top 5 most searched museums globally on Google in 2023, and also held the number one spot for inbound tourist destinations in Japan, with over 1 million visitors from 182 countries. Due to close in 2024, it extended its exhibition to 2027 owing to such high demand. Positive online reviews further solidify its status as a must-see attraction in Tokyo. Tickets & Open Hours for TeamLab Planets Tokyo We purchased our tickets online; however, there are also vending machines that you can use onsite to pay by cash should you so wish. This is one of Tokyo's most popular attractions and is regularly sold out, so we would highly recommend buying tickets well in advance of your visit. ⪢ Ticket Prices ● Adults (18 Years and above): 3,600 JPY ● Junior high school / High school: 2,700 JPY ● Children (Ages 4-12): 1,500 JPY ● Under 3 Years of Age: Free ● Disability Discount: 1,800 JPY Prices are correct at the time of writing (May 2025). Please check the official website  below for the most up-to-date information. All prices are in Japanese Yen. Convert your currency here . If you purchase your tickets online, you will be sent an email with a QR code within 2 days of your event date. 💡 Note that you will be asked to show this as a 'live email' before entering. Screenshots are not accepted. There is free WiFi available at the entrance should you need it. ⪢ Book Your Tickets in Advance Save time and book in advance with GetYourGuide. No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination. 🔗 Book your tickets here ⪢ Opening Hours teamLab Planets is open every day, from 9 am to 10 pm. The last admission is at 9 pm. At peak times there can be delays of up to 90 minutes on arrival, even if you have a pre-booked ticket. teamLab Planets TOKYO DMM ● 9 am - 10 pm, 7 days a week. ● Last entry one hour before closing. ● You may have to wait 30 to 90 minutes to be admitted to the venue. teamLab Planets is scheduled to be closed on Thursday, February 6th, and Thursday, March 6th, 2025. Living Art Store ＆ Sketch Factory ● 9 am - 10 pm, 7 days a week. Vegan Ramen UZU Tokyo ● 11:00 - 20:30 ● Last order for ramen is 30 minutes before the shop closes. Tips for Visiting teamLab Planets ⪢ Planning & Logistics ● Buy Tickets Online and in Advance: Tickets sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons and holidays. ● Consider Going During Off-Peak Hours: While crowds are inevitable, visiting around dinnertime (7-10 pm) or weekdays can offer a slightly less congested experience. ● Prepare for a Shoeless Experience: Bare feet are required for several exhibits, so dress comfortably and bring socks if desired. ● Leave Large Bags and Tripods at Home: Lockers are available for smaller belongings, but large bags and tripods are not allowed. ⪢ Maximizing your Experience ● Download the teamLab app : It provides additional information about the exhibits and allows interaction with certain installations. ● Go With the Flow: Don't feel rushed, take your time, and fully immerse yourself in each exhibit. ● Capture the Moment: While professional photography equipment isn't allowed, feel free to take photos and videos with your phone or camera (be mindful of the water exhibits). ● Embrace the Interactive Elements: Many exhibits respond to touch and movement, so participate and have fun! Bonus Tip: Be aware that some people may find the darkened, immersive environments slightly disorienting, so plan accordingly if you have any sensitivities. How to Get to teamLab Planets in Tokyo There are plenty of options to get to teamLab Planets, and it is very accessible from most parts of Tokyo. Here are a few options: By Train The nearest train station is Toyosu Station on the Yurikamome Line. From the station, it's a 10-minute walk to the museum. ⪢ Nearest Subway Stations ● Shin-Toyosu Station-Tokyo Waterfront Line, Yurikamome Line: 1 minute walk ● Toyosu Station - Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line: 10 minute walk, also a 5 minute walk from Toyosu Market ● Shijoumae Station: 5-minute walk By Car If you are driving, there is plenty of parking available on the right-hand side of the main entrance, and it is free (as far as we could see). By Bus Several buses stop near the museum, including the Tokyo Metropolitan Bureau of Transportation (Toei) bus routes and the Tokyo Waterfront Area Rapid Transit (BRT) bus. Note that due to heavy congestion from those arriving by bus, teamLab's kindly requests visitors to use other means of transportation if possible. By Taxi Taxis are readily available in Tokyo, but be prepared for potential traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. This is also potentially the most expensive option. By Water Bus For a unique experience, consider taking the water bus from Asakusa or Hinode Pier to the museum. ⪢ Consider Taking a Tour One of the most popular ways to explore Tokyo is by tour. We recommend checking out the vast number of different options with GetYourGuide. No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination. 🔗 Book your tickets here ⪢ Contact Information for teamLab Planets ● Address : 6 Chome-1-16 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan ● Website: teamlab.art ● Instagram: @teamlab ● YouTube: @teamLabArt Where to Stay in Tokyo Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Tokyo hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Watch on YouTube Tokyo, Japan, is a remarkable city! We arrive to explore this state-of-the-art technological and visual art capital. We quickly grew fond of the 7-11, a staple of Tokyo culture. We explored the subway to visit Shibuya Crossing, visited the iconic red lantern at Senso-ji Temple, and enjoyed the shops leading up to it. After a traditional Japanese lunch, we crossed the Sumida River Walk Bridge. Join us for 5 days of exploring Tokyo's diverse experiences, offering a great itinerary and valuable resource for anyone visiting the city. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Experience Rating: teamLab Planets Tokyo To be honest, there is no reason why we would not give teamLab Planets the full 5 stars here! It was a unique experience that neither of us had had before. They have done a fantastic job of making this as immersive as they say it is and it is a fantastic place to visit for tourists and locals alike. We were very impressed and highly recommend you check this place out if you are headed to Tokyo anytime soon! As ever thank you for reading, and please feel free to share your experience, or ask any questions you may have, in the comments below. FAQ: teamLab Planets Tokyo – What to Know Before You Go What is teamLab Planets Tokyo? It’s a digital art museum in Tokyo where you walk barefoot through immersive, interactive installations involving water, mirrors, lights, and projections. It’s part of the famous teamLab collective known for boundary-pushing art experiences. How is it different from teamLab Borderless? While teamLab Borderless (previously in Odaiba) featured a maze-like format, teamLab Planets is more linear and sensory-focused. You move through one space at a time, including wading through knee-deep water and floating gardens. 💡 Planets emphasizes physical interaction, while Borderless was about visual flow. Where is it located? teamLab Planets is in Toyosu, Tokyo, a few minutes' walk from Shin-Toyosu Station on the Yurikamome Line. 📍Address: 6 Chome-1-16 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061 Do I really have to go barefoot? Yes! You’ll walk through water-filled rooms, so visitors must go barefoot. Towel rentals and foot washing stations are provided. How long does the experience take? Most visits last around 60–90 minutes, depending on how much time you spend in each room or how many photos you take. What are the highlights of the exhibition? ● Infinite Crystal Universe: A mirrored, LED-filled space ● Floating Flower Garden: Orchids rise and fall around you ● Soft Black Hole: A floor you sink into as you walk ● Waterfall of Light Particles: Cascading digital waves ● Water Room: An immersive walk through warm water Is it suitable for kids? Yes, though toddlers and younger children may need assistance in deeper water areas or dark rooms. It’s family-friendly and unforgettable for all ages. Are photos and videos allowed? Absolutely — the museum encourages photography (no flash). Many visitors go specifically for Instagram-worthy content. Should I buy tickets in advance? Yes, especially during weekends or tourist season. You can book tickets online via the official website or trusted platforms. Time slots do sell out. Is it a permanent museum? teamLab Planets Tokyo was originally planned as a temporary exhibition, but due to popularity, it’s been extended until at least the end of 2027. Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing For peace of mind abroad, we recommend travel insurance. SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies, with options for adventure sports and electronics theft. SafetyWing's Complete Plan  offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits. Book Transport Taxis, Trains, Planes, Buses & Ferries in Advance Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless transport booking experience. With booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Interactive Map Japan Check out all of the places we visited in Japan courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap a number for more information, including our blog posts and links to reviews. Wanderlog  is a free travel planning app where you can create itineraries, organize flights, hotels, and car reservations, view places to visit, and collaborate with friends. Closer Lives Travel Hub Destinations, Tips & Essentials Head over to our Travel Hub – it’s packed with free country guides, helpful travel blogs, videos from the road, and tips to help you travel smarter (and cheaper!). Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already out exploring, we've got resources to help you every step of the way. Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

The tallest tower in the world, the Tokyo SkyTree has been wowing visitors since it opened in 2012. It's 634m (2080ft), 30 meters higher than the previous record holder, the Canton Tower in China (604m). It's the third-highest free-standing structure in the world, and its top viewing level for visitors is a sensational 450 meters high. But is it worth it? Visiting Japan was a big dream come true for us and we landed in Tokyo with it being our 29th country together. Just two days in and we made a beeline for the Tokyo SkyTree! Our hotel was a ten-minute walk away, and we certainly couldn't resist the temptation of this tower. We just knew the views would be breathtaking and they most certainly were! That being said, it was super crowded, very hot, and fairly expensive for two people. Check out some of our epic highlights, find out more about its history, top fun facts, and how to book your ticket to the Tokyo SkyTree, should you decide to go! In This Post... ● Our Highlights ● 8 Fun Facts ● Tickets & Open Hours ● Tips for Visiting ● How to Get There See More... ● Where to Stay in Tokyo ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Rating ● FAQ Travel Resources ● Get Travel Insurance ● Book Transport ● Interactive Map ● Closer Lives Travel Hub Our Tokyo SkyTree Highlights The Tokyo SkyTree was built by the Tobu Railway and several media broadcasters. Its primary function was to replace the Tokyo Tower , which was struggling to provide communications, radio, and television services to the Kanto Region, given the large number of high-rise buildings that had been developed around it. The official name was given in a nationwide vote to decide, with Tokyo SkyTree receiving 30% of the vote, the runner-up being 'Tokyo Edo Tower'. The towering Tokyo SkyTree rises majestically above a quiet city street, framed by modern buildings and a clear blue sky. The height of the Tokyo SkyTree was determined not just by necessity, but also to future-proof the tower from the same issues that had beset the Tokyo Tower. The exact measurement of 634 meters was also completely intentional, the figures 6 (mu), 3 (sa), 4 (shi) standing for ' Musashi' , an old name of the region where the Tokyo SkyTree stands. A sunny day at the base of Tokyo SkyTree, showcasing its towering structure with vibrant art installations in the foreground. We felt pretty fortunate that we came on a clear day and we were able to catch a fantastic view of the city from all angles. The shadow of the tower over the buildings was super cool too. Capturing breathtaking views from the Tembo Deck, 350 meters high at Tokyo SkyTree. We spoke to someone who had visited before who mentioned some unfortunate weather problems, so we felt that little extra appreciation after that! It was very hot inside, so be prepared for that if you go with any jackets or coats. The towering shadow of Tokyo SkyTree stretches across the bustling cityscape, highlighting the expansive urban sprawl on a clear day. Even though it is pretty busy, surprisingly, you can find plenty of opportunities for a clear photo. Most people were also super friendly and polite too. There is also a whole host of activities you can do at the SkyTree, with tons of stores and restaurants at the base of the tower (including the 634 Musashi Sky Restaurant at 350m). There are also various activities you can do such as Kimono dying and tile breaking, and there is even an aquarium! Read on for some interesting Tokyo SkyTree facts, details on how to get to the Tokyo SkyTree, and also how to book tickets for this top destination! 8 Fun Facts About the Tokyo SkyTree Here are a few fun facts to know about the world's tallest tower! ⪢ The SkyTree Attracts Over 10,000 Visitors Per Day It has seen a peak annual number of over 4 million! The tower was visited by an incredible 20 million people in just its first 3 years of operation. People reportedly queued for over a week to get tickets before the grand opening, and it was sold out for its first two months! Colorful display celebrating the 10th anniversary of Tokyo Skytree, featuring a themed postbox and a vibrant rainbow decoration. ⪢ The Steel Pipes Used in the Construction Were all Hand-Welded On-Site The thickest steel pipe has a diameter of 2.3 meters and took four experienced welders three days to complete! ⪢ Steel Alone Was Used as the Framework for the Tokyo SkyTree Owing to its impressive durability, resistance to earthquakes, and strong winds, steel is a statement of advanced Japanese engineering. Unlike wood and concrete towers, the architect Nikken Seekei also chose steel as it is lightweight, helping to create an open environment that is easy on the eye and blends in with the sky. A diagram illustrating the structural features of a tower, highlighting the oil damper and steel framework. The central pillar, known as the Shinbashira, is depicted with its motion and fixed ranges in comparison to the traditional Gojunoto tower design, emphasizing seismic resistance. ⪢ The SkyTree Has 'Seismic Proofing' With its innovative central concrete pillar, alongside its tripod-like base and 'oil dampers' connecting the frame at 375 meters, the SkyTree is about as seismic proof as you can get. It is also able to maintain its center of gravity as best as possible due to a specialized system that enables it to 'absorb' 50% of energy from an earthquake. Visitors at Tokyo SkyTree's entrance admire the vibrant indoor garden under the warm glow of futuristic architectural lighting. ⪢ Edo-Komon Be sure to take a moment to enjoy the distinctive, almost lattice-like patterns throughout the SkyTree. They are derived from traditional designs and dying techniques for Kimonos, called 'edo-komon'. ⪢ 3rd Tallest Building, World's Tallest Tower The Tokyo SkyTree at 634 meters high is the third tallest structure in the world, behind the Merdeka 118 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (678.9m) and amazingly still dwarfed by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, UAE at a whopping 829 meters. As a standalone tower, it beats its closest competition, the Canton Tower in China , which stands at 600 meters. Capturing the mesmerizing ceiling lights in the Tokyo SkyTree elevator. ⪢ The Fastest Elevators in Japan There are four main elevators in the Tokyo SkyTree and they have some impressive statistics! They have a max speed of 600 meters per minute, the fastest of their kind in Japan. Incredibly, they are so silky smooth that a coin has been stood balanced on the floor and not fallen for the entire journey to the top! ⪢ Not Just Elevators... Each elevator or 'Tembo Shuttle' features vibrant visual design panels representing the four seasons in Japan, Cherry Blossom Skies, Sumida River Skies, Festival Skies, and Miyakodori Skies. Can you guess the four seasons in English? Tokyo SkyTree Ticket Information & Open Hours There are a few different ticket options for the Tokyo SkyTree plus a whole host of different activities that you can book online. We recommend booking ahead, as same-day tickets are more expensive, and it can get very busy with high wait times . There are two decks, Tembo Deck (350 meters) and Tembo Galleria (450 meters). Tickets can be purchased for both or one of the two. Advance Ticket ● Combo Ticket (Both Decks):  JPY 2700 ● Tembo Deck Only:  JPY 1800 Same-Day Ticket ● Combo Ticket (both decks): JPY 3100 ● Tembo Deck Only: JPY 2100 Enjoy Pack This is a special plan that includes an admission ticket to both decks at Tokyo SkyTree, in a bundle with another attraction. These include the fantastic teamLab Planets , Sky Hop Bus, Tile breaking, and Wish Hanging.  Check out the full range of packages here . Prices are correct at the time of writing (May 2025). Please check the official website  below for the most up-to-date information. All prices are in Japanese Yen. Convert your currency here . We purchased our tickets same-day and even though it was very busy, we were able to purchase tickets with ease. There are a vast amount of electronic ticket booths, available in many languages, with plenty of staff to help and guide you too. It was efficient, and from the point of entry to getting to the observation deck took around 30 minutes. ⪢ Book Your Tickets Online Save time and book in advance with GetYourGuide. No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination. 🎟️ Book your tickets here ⪢ Opening Hours The Tokyo SkyTree is open every day from 10 am - 10 pm. Last entry is at 9 pm. Tips for Visiting Tokyo SkyTree ⪢ Best Time for Views To avoid crowds, go early in the morning or later in the evening. If you're lucky enough to be there on a clear day, consider going at sunset for a magical experience. ⪢ Check the Weather Get a weather forecast before heading up; visibility can be limited on cloudy or rainy days. ⪢ Dress Comfortably You'll be doing a bit of walking and standing, so wear comfortable shoes. It can also get pretty hot, especially on sunny days. Even in December! ⪢ Explore Solamachi The shopping and dining complex at the base of the SkyTree is called Tokyo Solamachi. Allocate some time to explore its numerous shops and dining options if you're interested. We warn you, it is a maze down there! How to Get to Tokyo SkyTree in Sumida City There are several ways to get to the Tokyo SkyTree, depending on which part of the city you are traveling from, of course. We opted to take the train, given its ease and affordability. By Train ● Tobu SkyTree Line:  This is the most convenient and direct option. The Tobu SkyTree Line runs from Asakusa Station to Kasukabe Station, with a dedicated stop at "Tokyo SkyTree Station" located right below the tower. Trains run approximately every 5-10 minutes during peak hours and offer a comfortable and scenic journey. ● Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Toei Asakusa Line, or Keisei Oshiage Line:  These lines offer a network of connections throughout Tokyo and stop at "Oshiage Station (SkyTree)," which is a short 5-10 minute walk from the Tokyo SkyTree. While not as direct as the Tobu SkyTree Line, these options provide flexibility if you're coming from another part of the city. Check here  for more station information. By Bus Several Toei Bus routes serve the Tokyo SkyTree area, making it a budget-friendly option. However, navigating the bus system can be slightly more challenging compared to trains, especially if you're unfamiliar with the city. Using a translation app or researching the specific bus route beforehand is recommended. By Taxi Taxis are a convenient option, especially if you have luggage or are traveling with a group. Taxis are readily available throughout Tokyo, but fares can be significantly higher compared to using public transportation. Japan Rail (JR) Pass If you plan on traveling extensively by train, consider purchasing a JR Pass with Klook. It can save you money if you'll be using JR lines frequently during your stay in Japan, and it is a very popular option for tourists. ⪢ Contact Information for Tokyo SkyTree ● Address : 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan ● Phone: (+81) 570550634 ● Website: tokyo-skytree.jp/en Where to Stay in Tokyo Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Tokyo hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Watch on YouTube Tokyo, Japan, is a remarkable city! We arrive to explore this state-of-the-art technological and visual art capital. We quickly grew fond of the 7-11, a staple of Tokyo culture. We explored the subway to visit Shibuya Crossing, visited the iconic red lantern at Senso-ji Temple, and enjoyed the shops leading up to it. After a traditional Japanese lunch, we crossed the Sumida River Walk Bridge. Join us for 5 days of exploring Tokyo's diverse experiences, offering a great itinerary and valuable resource for anyone visiting the city. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Experience Rating: Tokyo SkyTree We had a good experience but we did feel it was expensive, given that there are other (albeit smaller) towers that are more affordable, in some cases completely free. It was also super busy and very hot inside, which made it a little uncomfortable and harder to enjoy. That being said the view was incredible, although be sure to aim for a day with no clouds like we did! As ever thank you for reading, and please feel free to share your experience, or ask any questions you may have, in the comments below. FAQ: Tokyo Skytree – Everything You Need to Know What is the Tokyo Skytree? The Tokyo Skytree is a 634-meter broadcasting and observation tower located in Sumida, Tokyo. It’s the tallest structure in Japan and one of the tallest in the world, with panoramic views over the entire city and beyond. How tall is the Tokyo Skytree exactly? It stands at 634 meters (2,080 feet) tall. The number "634" can be read as "Musashi" — an old name for the region encompassing Tokyo, Saitama, and Kanagawa. 💡 The symbolic height adds historical meaning to its futuristic design. What are the observation decks like? There are two decks: ● Tembo Deck at 350 meters ● Tembo Galleria at 450 meters Both offer 360-degree views, with floor-to-ceiling glass and interactive displays. On clear days, you can see Mount Fuji. How much does it cost to go up the Skytree? Prices vary depending on how many levels you want to visit: ● Tembo Deck only: ¥2,100–3,100 ● Tembo Deck + Galleria: ¥3,100–4,000 💡 Discounts are sometimes available online or via combination tickets with other attractions. Is it worth visiting? Yes, especially for first-time visitors to Tokyo. The Skytree offers unmatched views, a futuristic design, and access to a full entertainment complex. What’s inside Tokyo Skytree Town? Below the tower is Tokyo Solamachi, a shopping and entertainment complex with over 300 shops, restaurants, an aquarium, and even a planetarium. How do I get there? Take the Tobu Skytree Line to Tokyo Skytree Station or the Hanzomon Line to Oshiage Station. Both drop you off right next to the tower. What’s the best time to visit the Skytree? Sunset offers stunning golden-hour views, but morning visits often have clearer skies. Avoid peak hours (weekends and holidays) if you dislike queues. Can I book tickets in advance? Yes, and it’s recommended. You can buy tickets online via the official Skytree website or third-party platforms to skip the lines. Are there any other viewpoints in Tokyo? Yes, other popular options include Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Sky, Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which offers free views. Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing For peace of mind abroad, we recommend travel insurance. SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies, with options for adventure sports and electronics theft. SafetyWing's Complete Plan  offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits. Book Transport Taxis, Trains, Planes, Buses & Ferries in Advance Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless transport booking experience. With booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Interactive Map Japan Check out all of the places we visited in Japan courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap a number for more information, including our blog posts and links to reviews. Wanderlog  is a free travel planning app where you can create itineraries, organize flights, hotels, and car reservations, view places to visit, and collaborate with friends. Closer Lives Travel Hub Destinations, Tips & Essentials Head over to our Travel Hub – it’s packed with free country guides, helpful travel blogs, videos from the road, and tips to help you travel smarter (and cheaper!). Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already out exploring, we've got resources to help you every step of the way. Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Showcasing beautiful goldfish as living art, this breathtaking museum is a must-see in Tokyo. There are thousands of rare and common goldfish in ten exhibits, swimming in mesmerizing multi-colored vessels of various shapes and sizes. In a style typical of Japan , they are displayed in a way that encompasses all that is beautiful about nature. The Art Aquarium Museum in Tokyo is not your typical aquarium. Here, art, design, and entertainment seamlessly blend with the captivating beauty of goldfish, creating a fantastical world unlike any other. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through this unique museum, exploring its dazzling exhibits, fascinating history, and the cultural significance of goldfish in Japan. G et ready to be mesmerized by a captivating fusion of art and aquatic life! In This Post... ● Our Highlights ● Goldfish in Japan ● The History ● Getting Tickets ● How to Get There See More... ● Where to Stay in Tokyo ● Tips for Visiting ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Rating ● FAQ Travel Resources ● Get Travel Insurance ● Interactive Map ● Book Transport ● Closer Lives Travel Hub Our Art Aquarium Ginza Highlights The building that houses the Art Aquarium Museum is easy enough to locate however once inside it is a little confusing. It's a 9-floor department store, and the floor plan shows the museum as being on floor 8. Thankfully, we asked at the reception area and they kindly informed us that it is actually on floor 9. You can find details of how to navigate the building later on in this post. Our first stop was the Ginza Mantoro, a magical 'silent' spot of traditional hanging Japanese lanterns. The multi-layered lanterns mimic the historical design of those at the Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara . This was a really pleasant start to our tour! Illuminated Ginza Mantoro lanterns create a captivating display at the Art Aquarium Museum in Tokyo, casting warm light and intricate shadows in the darkened space. Next up was a lovely exhibit called the Goldfish Corridor. This is designed to mimic the style of Japanese temples and is lined on either side by large floor-to-ceiling goldfish tanks illuminated in slow-changing colors. It was a great start, although this seemed to be the busiest area so it was hard to enjoy it in all its glory! But we loved it all the same and immediately had a nice sense of ease given the lovely, calming music that accompanied us throughout. Golden fish swirl in illuminated cylindrical tanks, surrounded by vibrant, geometric art installations at the Goldfish Corridor in the Art Aquarium Museum, Tokyo. We then moved on to the 'Goldfish Waterfall', one of the larger displays that contain multi-layered rectangular tanks with subtly overflowing cascading water. This is an open and interactive exhibit so we could walk in between the tanks and observe the goldfish in a way that almost felt like we were in the tanks with them! A mesmerizing view of the 'Goldfish Waterfall' at the Art Aquarium Museum in Tokyo, where glowing tanks teem with colorful fish beneath cascading botanical displays. The Mask Collection was very interesting; a wall featuring some 60 historical masks collected by the museum from all over Japan. Many of these masks would have been used in rituals and ceremonies over time. Some of them looked fairly ghoulish; we were a tad disappointed each one did not come with any information. But they were cool to observe and we really enjoyed this exhibit. A wooden mask from the 'Mask Wall Collection' at Art Aquarium Museum Tokyo, featuring expressive carved features and intricate wood grain patterns. Our next exhibit was 'A Show of Kingyo'. This is a collection of around 20 small square pedestals hosting a short, open-topped square aquarium on top. Surrounding the aquarium are beautiful 'Kimono obi' glass multi-colored marbles. There were certainly some very interesting-looking goldfish here! Colorful Kingyo goldfish elegantly glide through a vibrant aquarium display at the Art Aquarium Museum in Tokyo. We could sense the exhibits getting bigger and better as we moved on and the 'Origamirium' is a great example of that. This giant fishbowl is inspired by the Japanese tradition of origami (hence the name and shape) and also has hanging paper origami fish surrounding it which you can walk amongst. Very, very beautiful! A dazzling display of illuminated origami and vibrant colors captivates visitors at the Art Aquarium Museum in Tokyo, showcasing the stunning interplay between art and aquatic life. The stunning 'Chochinrium' greeted us next and was perhaps one of our favorite exhibits. Based on traditional Japanese 'Matsuri Lantern lighting, either side of the central walkway is lined with pedestal-mounted large glass sphere-style bowls designed to magnify the fish to make them look bigger. The tops of the bowls, the lighting, the ceiling decorations; it was all very magical here! Visitors explore the enchanting displays of the Art Aquarium Museum Tokyo, surrounded by vibrant fish tanks and festive decorations. The penultimate exhibit features bamboo-style tubular tanks that alternate lights of white, green, pink, and red. Each tank bubbles inside and wraps around a beautiful Christmas Tree in the center. It is designed to resemble a bamboo forest and is a quiet space of tranquility and appreciation. A visitor captures the mesmerizing "Goldfish Forest" installation at the Art Aquarium Museum in Tokyo, where vibrant pink and green lights illuminate the intricate aquatic display. Last but certainly not least is this incredible collaboration project in which vibrant and unique colors and synergy truly stand out amongst various strategically placed goldfish bowls. Japanese flower arrangement is called Ikebana, and intermingling this stunning style with the fish of the aquarium makes this final exhibit a fitting crescendo for this museum . A visitor admires the vibrant and intricate display of Flowerium by Shogo Kariyazaki at the Art Aquarium Museum in Tokyo, featuring a mesmerizing blend of colorful floral arrangements and artistic illumination. "This is the world's first collaboration between Goldfish and myself, so I'm filled with anticipation. Goldfish and flowers, I can't help but look forward to how I can co-star the perfected beauty created by this world. all visitors will enjoy this world-first collaboration between goldfish and ikebana, a Japanese art that boasts to the world." - Shogo Kariyazaki Read on for more information on tickets for the Art Aquarium, how to get there in Tokyo, and our experience rating. Why Are Goldfish So Significant in Japan? Goldfish hold a special place in Japanese culture for several reasons, and have so for over 500 years! Here are a few of the reasons behind it: ⪢ Symbol of Luck & Prosperity The Japanese word for goldfish, 'Kingyo', has characters that mean 'gold' and 'fish'. This association with gold naturally paints them as symbols of wealth and good fortune. Their red and orange colors are also considered lucky and believed to ward off evil. ⪢ Historical Importation Goldfish were introduced to Japan from China around the 1500s. They were initially luxury items, kept only by wealthy individuals, contributing to their association with high status. ⪢ Accessibility During the Edo period (1603-1868), goldfish breeding techniques advanced, and they became widely popular among the common people. This widespread availability further ingrained them in Japanese culture. ⪢ Aesthetics Their vibrant colors, graceful movements, and variety of shapes and forms have a captivating aesthetic quality that the Japanese have long appreciated. ⪢ Cultural Representation Goldfish appear frequently in Japanese art, literature, and even festivals . They symbolize summer and a sense of delightful nostalgia. The History of the Art Aquarium Museum While the Art Aquarium Museum Ginza officially opened its doors in May 2022, its story goes back further. It wasn't the first "Art Aquarium" experience, but rather the second chapter in a longer journey. ⪢ The Beginning (2007) The concept first emerged as a temporary exhibition in Tokyo in 2007. This initial exhibit showcasing goldfish in artistic displays proved incredibly popular, running for two months. ⪢ Traveling the World Following the success of the first exhibition, the "Art Aquarium" concept embarked on a journey, holding limited-time exhibitions in various locations both domestically and internationally over the next 15 years. ⪢ Permanent Home (2022) Finally, in 2022, the Art Aquarium found a permanent home in the heart of Ginza. This new iteration, the Art Aquarium Museum Ginza, represents an evolution of the concept, offering a more immersive and permanent experience focused on showcasing goldfish as living art. In over 40 exhibitions, it has amassed over 10 million visitors! Getting Tickets for the Art Aquarium Museum in Tokyo Adults & Students (12+ yrs) ● Web Ticket:   JPY 2,500 (Online purchase on the day is possible) ● Same Day Ticket:   JPY 2,700 Use the ticket vending machine on the 9th floor of Ginza Mitsukoshi New Building for same-day tickets. Credit/debit cards and cash are accepted. Check online first:  If online tickets are sold out, same-day tickets will not be available. Children (under 12 yrs) ● Free admission for up to 2 children per adult ● A normal fee will be charged for the 3rd child Audio Guides Guides are available for JPY 500 Prices are correct at the time of writing (May 2025). Please check the official website  below for the most up-to-date information. All prices are in Japanese Yen. Convert your currency here . ⪢ Get your Art Aquarium Museum Ticket with a Tokyo Metro Day Pass Save time and guarantee your spot. 🎟️ Book your tickets here Get an exclusive optional c ombo offer by adding to your Art Aquarium Museum admission ticket with a Tokyo Metro Subway pass for 24 hours with unlimited rides. Art Aquarium Museum Opening Times The Art Aquarium Museum is open every day from 10 am - 7 pm. The last entry is at 6 pm. ⪢ Best Time to Visit If you want to enjoy the Art Aquarium in a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, we recommend visiting during weekdays, and in the early morning, around 10 am to 12 pm. How to Get to the Ginza Art Aquarium Museum in Tokyo The best way to get to the museum is via the highly efficient and world-renowned subway system in Tokyo (in our opinion). Check below for the nearest stations, and tap the map for further navigation. Nearest Subway Stations ● Ginza Station - Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, Hibiya Line  - A7 exit (directly opposite) ● Ginza-itchome Station -   Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line  - Exit 9 (5 minute walk) ● Higashi Ginza Station -   Toei Asakusa Line/Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line  - go in the direction of Ginza Station via the underground walkway (2-minute walk) ● Yurakucho Station -   JR Line  - Central Exit/Ginza Exit (9-minute walk) By Car There is a parking lot within the Ginza Mitsukoshi building. Parking tickets are available at the museum shop inside the Art Aquarium Museum. Museum visitors get 1 hour free for each parking ticket (1.5 hours free for the Nishi-Ginza parking lot). You can also gain additional free hours when spending over ¥ 2000 in the store. Ginza Mitsukoshi Building When you arrive at the Ginza Mitsukoshi Building, you will find that the floor plan at the entrance states that the museum is on floor 8. This is not correct; the entrance is actually on floor 9, via the Ginza Terrace Garden. You are unable to access floor 9 by the escalator and can only get there by the main building elevators. When you exit the elevator, turn left and take a few steps, and you will see the entrance just to the right. Tap here  for building route guidance. ⪢ Contact Information for Ginza Art Aquarium Museum ● Address: 4-6-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-8212 Ginza Mitsukoshi (admission reception / same-day ticket: 9th floor of the new building) ● Contact form: artaquarium.jp ● Phone: (+81) 03-3528-6721 ● Website: artaquarium.jp ● Instagram: @artaquarium_museum_official ● Facebook: @artaquariumofficial Where to Stay in Tokyo Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Tokyo hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Tips for Visiting the Art Aquarium Museum, Ginza, Tokyo ● Buy tickets in advance: The museum can get busy, especially on weekends and evenings. Purchasing tickets online ahead of time helps you skip queues and secure your preferred time slot. ● Visit on a weekday or early in the day: Weekdays and morning hours are less crowded, offering a more immersive experience with fewer visitors. ● Bring a camera—but no flash: Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited to protect the delicate installations. Capture the mesmerizing aquatic displays and vibrant lighting. ● Wear comfortable shoes: The museum is compact but requires some walking and standing, so dress comfortably for your visit. ● Plan for sensory overload: The dazzling lights, colors, and music create a unique atmosphere that can be intense. Take breaks if needed and soak in the art at your own pace. ● Explore the gift shop: Don’t miss the gift shop with exclusive art-inspired souvenirs and books. ● Check for seasonal exhibitions: The museum often features special themes or seasonal installations—check the website to see what’s on during your visit. Watch on YouTube Tokyo, Japan, is a remarkable city! We arrive to explore this state-of-the-art technological and visual art capital. We quickly grew fond of the 7-11, a staple of Tokyo culture. We explored the subway to visit Shibuya Crossing, visited the iconic red lantern at Senso-ji Temple, and enjoyed the shops leading up to it. After a traditional Japanese lunch, we crossed the Sumida River Walk Bridge. Join us for 5 days of exploring Tokyo's diverse experiences, offering a great itinerary and valuable resource for anyone visiting the city. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Experience Rating: Art Aquarium Museum Ginza We thoroughly enjoyed the exhibits and felt that it was all very beautiful! It was very busy, which made it a little difficult to enjoy everything as the spaces were quite small. Booking later in the evening might have sounded like a good idea, but it seems many people do that, so perhaps the early morning is better. We would recommend it, though, and we are sure it will be a memory that, like us, you will not forget from Tokyo. FAQ: Art Aquarium Museum Tokyo – All You Need to Know What is the Art Aquarium Museum? The Art Aquarium Museum is an immersive art installation in Tokyo that blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern digital art, using live goldfish as the centerpiece of dazzling, illuminated exhibits. Where is it located? It’s in Ginza Mitsukoshi, a well-known department store in the upscale Ginza district of Tokyo. The address is: Ginza Mitsukoshi Annex B1F, 4 Chome-6-16 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-8212 💡 Easy access from Ginza Station on the Tokyo Metro. What can you expect to see? ● Thousands of goldfish swimming in kaleidoscopic tanks ● Exhibits that change color, pulse to music, or resemble Japanese lanterns ● Mesmerizing projections, lights, and glasswork ● A “floating world” feel that fuses aquatic life and Japanese tradition Is photography allowed? Yes, photography and video are allowed, but no flash is permitted to avoid disturbing the fish. Visitors are encouraged to share on social media, and the visuals are incredibly Instagrammable. How long does a visit take? Most visitors spend around 30–60 minutes, depending on how long they stay to take photos or admire each installation. Is the Art Aquarium kid-friendly? Definitely. Children are often fascinated by the glowing tanks and vibrant goldfish, though supervision is needed due to the low lighting and delicate displays. Do I need a ticket or a reservation? Yes, tickets are required. You can purchase them online in advance or at the venue, though entry slots can sell out during weekends and holidays. What is the best time to visit? Weekdays or earlier in the day are best to avoid crowds and take better photos. Evenings offer a more dramatic atmosphere due to the lighting. Is the exhibit seasonal? While the museum itself is permanent, some installations change with the seasons — incorporating themes like cherry blossoms in spring or lanterns during summer festivals. Why is goldfish art important in Japan? Goldfish have been part of Japanese culture for centuries, symbolizing prosperity, harmony, and beauty. The Art Aquarium reimagines this tradition in a modern, interactive form. Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing For peace of mind abroad, we recommend travel insurance. SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies, with options for adventure sports and electronics theft. SafetyWing's Complete Plan  offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits. Book Transport Taxis, Trains, Planes, Buses & Ferries in Advance Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless transport booking experience. With booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Interactive Map Japan Check out all of the places we visited in Japan courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap a number for more information, including our blog posts and links to reviews. Wanderlog  is a free travel planning app where you can create itineraries, organize flights, hotels, and car reservations, view places to visit, and collaborate with friends. Closer Lives Travel Hub Destinations, Tips & Essentials Head over to our Travel Hub – it’s packed with free country guides, helpful travel blogs, videos from the road, and tips to help you travel smarter (and cheaper!). Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already out exploring, we've got resources to help you every step of the way. Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

This concept cafe uses robotics to offer work and transform the lives of those who may be bedridden, unable, or too uncomfortable to work outside of the home. Redefining remote working with cutting-edge OriHime robots, customers are able to interact with staff with health conditions or impairments from their own spaces in a fun and non-intrusive way. We were completely enamored by this fantastic idea, and we could not wait to get there and check it out. We had the most heartwarming experience, and we are huge fans of everything the team at the Dawn Avatar Robot Cafe and its owners, Ory Laboratory, are doing. Be sure to visit them and give your support when you are in Tokyo ! In this post , we take a look at how the cafe works, what Orihime robots are, how to make reservations, where to find Avatar Robot Cafe, and, as ever, our travel experience rating. In This Post... ● OriHime Robot ● Our Highlights ● OriHime Pilot Barista ● Making Reservations ● Opening Times See More... ● How to Get There ● Where to Stay in Tokyo ● Watch on YouTube ● Our Experience Rating ● FAQ Travel Resources ● Get Travel Insurance ● Book Transport ● Interactive Map ● Closer Lives Travel Hub What Is an OriHime Robot? Orihime is a robot that has a built-in camera, microphone, and speakers. It is controlled remotely through the internet and the operator can freely move the field of view of OriHime. They can talk and communicate in real time via the tablet you see in the front. Operators are also able to move the robot along programmed floor lines, and can also control the eyes and arms. 🔗 M ore about Orihime An avatar robot with glowing eyes at the Dawn Avatar Robot Cafe in Tokyo, providing information with a digital display. Our Avatar Robot Cafe Highlights On entry, we were immediately greeted by our first OriHime robot, operated by the lovely Masako Imai. This first interaction was initially a little awkward, but both Jenn and I became comfortable and natural fairly quickly. Masako was born with SMA (spinal muscular atrophy) and operates Orihime from her home in Osaka. "I am a typically energetic Osaka born person with a special suit called SMA. Needing assistance by caregivers for almost 24 hours a day, I currently live alone." In 2015, Masako helped start a group for challenged people called Gururi, aiming to create a culture where diverse people could meet and co-exist in a local community. "I want to have fun talking to people and discovering and appreciating new things through my alter ego avatar robot OriHime!" We were really happy to meet Masako and she gave us such a lovely welcome! As we did not make reservations prior, we were unable to have a sit-down robot 'service'. So we just ordered two salted caramel lattes and opted for a window seat where we could observe the OriHime and their operators in action. The café is beautifully presented, and we liked the infusion of green plants and the central tree, complete with its surrounding cushion seat. There is a large screen, a well-stocked bar, and plenty of tables. There is also free WiFi and charging ports available. The café is split into two sections; seating for online bookings and walk-in customers. For the robot table service, you must book prior to arrival, and you are required to order a meal. Cozy vibes and cutting-edge technology blend seamlessly at Dawn Avatar Robot Cafe in Tokyo, where customers enjoy a unique dining experience surrounded by lush greenery and innovative robotics. There are some great workspaces available too although they are limited without reservations. We were given a 30-minute time limit, although it was fairly quiet, so it did not seem like it would be enforced. We enjoyed the atmosphere here, and it felt like such a happy place to be! We do wish we had booked the table service, but we will certainly do it next time (there will be one!) Inside the Dawn Avatar Robot Cafe in Tokyo, patrons enjoy a unique experience surrounded by greenery and futuristic technology, symbolized by a small robot at the entrance. This was the first time either one of us had seen an Orihime robot, and it was fascinating to watch it cruise around serving the patrons of the café. Even more so having conversations with the people operating them! We were completely enamored by the concept, and we can most certainly see how this benefits the staff, not just as a job but also on a social level. The Orihime Pilot Barista The tele barista pilot is only available on the reservation and again is operated by a café pilot. Despite not having a reservation we were still fortunate enough to have enjoyed some time with Akane after we had finished our coffee. We were invited over to say hello and we both got to play rock paper scissors! Unfortunately, we both lost, but this was super fun! OriHime operators are called pilots, and there are over 60 staff from inside and outside Japan! With such a warm welcome, fun interactions, and great service, we do not doubt that the Avatar Robot café will continue to expand and grow. Hopefully, it will look beyond Japan , too! There are so many who could benefit from this kind of opportunity. Read on for more information on how to make reservations, the location of the café, and our Avatar Robot Café rating. Making Reservations at the Avatar Robot Cafe There is an admission fee for the cafe, which covers access to the diner, bar, and cafe. There is a small section of seats that do not require this fee; however, they do not include OriHime service or the option for meals (coffee and small snacks only). ⪢ Orihime PASS ● Adult ticket (12 years +) ￥1,500 ● Child ticket (4 - 11 years old) ￥1,000 ● OriHime pass includes one drink ● Free for children under 3 years old Patrons at the Dawn Avatar Robot Cafe in Tokyo interact with an Orihime robot server, creating a unique and futuristic dining experience amidst a cozy, plant-filled setting. ⪢ Orihime Diner Robot service is called an 'OriHime Diner' and must be booked online. You are also required to order a meal from an exclusive menu. Booking this service removes the requirement to pay the admission fee. Fee: ● Adult ticket (12 yrs +): ￥4,400 ● Child ticket (4-11 yrs): ￥2,200 ● Free for children under 3 years old Prices are correct at the time of writing (June 2025). Please check the official website  below for the most up-to-date information. All prices are in Japanese Yen. Convert your currency here . What you get: ● Entrance ticket to the Orihime area ● OriHime Customer Service Experience (table service) ● One dish and one beverage from the menu ● Same-day reservations are not accepted ● Reservations can only be made online with credit card payment in advance. Cash payments or phone reservations are not accepted ● OriHime Diner is available for a minimum of 2 persons ● Service by Orihime starts 30 minutes after the reservation time 🔗 Reserve your seat here 🔗 View the full menu here A visitor interacts with a service robot at the Dawn Avatar Robot Cafe in Tokyo, showcasing innovative technology in hospitality. ⪢ Bar Counter The Bar Counter is open from noon and offers original non-alcoholic cold drinks in addition to alcoholic beverages. ● No reservations are required ● Admission fee required, can be paid on the day of your visit ● The alcohol age limit is 20 years old ● A 30-minute service will be available when seats are overcrowded A beautifully crafted latte with heart-shaped latte art served on a wooden tray at the futuristic Dawn Avatar Robot Cafe in Tokyo. ⪢ Cafe Seat OriHime pilots who have undergone barista training will operate the OriHime 'NEXTAGE' robot to serve you your coffee of choice. 🔗 View the full menu Service Times: ● No reservation required ● Admission fee applicable ● There may be a 30-minute time limit during busy periods Avatar Robot Cafe Opening Times The Avatar Robot Cafe is open every day except Thursday, from 11 am to 7 pm. The cafe is only open on Thursday if a national holiday falls on this day. How to Get to Avatar Robot Cafe in Tokyo The Avatar Robot Cafe is located in the vibrant Shinjuku district, a bustling area known for its shopping, entertainment, and futuristic experiences. By Train Take the JR Yamanote Line or Chuo Line to Shinjuku Station, one of Tokyo’s busiest transport hubs. From the station’s East Exit, the cafe is approximately a 5–7 minute walk. Alternatively, use the Toei Shinjuku Subway Line or Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Shinjuku-sanchome Station, which is also close by. On Foot From Shinjuku Station East Exit, head towards Shinjuku Kabukicho district. Follow signs or GPS to the cafe’s exact address: 1-1-10 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo. By Taxi Taxis are widely available in Tokyo and can be a convenient option, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or in a group. Show the driver the cafe’s address in Japanese: 「東京都新宿区歌舞伎町1丁目1−10」. ⪢ Contact Information for Dawn Avatar Robot Cafe ● Address:  Nihonbashi Life Science Building 3 1F, 3-8-3 Nihonbashi-Honcho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0023, Japan ● Phone:  (+81) 03-3527-2136 ● Email: dawn@orylab.com ● Opening times:  11 am - 7 pm, 6 days a week. Closed on Thursdays. ● Payments:  Non-cash payments only (credit/debit card, QR pay, e-cash) ● Website: dawn2021.orylab.com ● Instagram: @dawncafe2021 ● Facebook: @dawncafe2021 Where to Stay in Tokyo Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Tokyo hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city. Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination. Watch on YouTube Tokyo, Japan, is a remarkable city! We arrive to explore this state-of-the-art technological and visual art capital. We quickly grew fond of the 7-11, a staple of Tokyo culture. We explored the subway to visit Shibuya Crossing, visited the iconic red lantern at Senso-ji Temple, and enjoyed the shops leading up to it. After a traditional Japanese lunch, we crossed the Sumida River Walk Bridge. Join us for 5 days of exploring Tokyo's diverse experiences, offering a great itinerary and valuable resource for anyone visiting the city. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Our Experience Rating: Avatar Robot Cafe We are rating Avatar Robot Cafe 5 stars because of its purpose, cause, and mission behind the café. It is a great place to spend time with friends and family and the coffee was excellent. It is perhaps a little on the higher end of the price scale but for what you get and contribute, it is well worth it! FAQ: Avatar Robot Café, Tokyo – What You Need to Know What is the Avatar Robot Café in Tokyo? The Avatar Robot Café (DAWN ver.β) is a one-of-a-kind café where robots serve customers, but those robots are remotely operated by people with disabilities from home or care facilities. It’s a powerful blend of technology and social impact. Where is it located? The café is located in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, Japan. The exact address is: Dawn Avatar Robot Cafe, 1 Chome-1-9 Nihonbashimuromachi, Chuo City, Tokyo 103-0022. 💡 It’s close to Mitsukoshimae Station and Tokyo Station, making it easy to reach. Who operates the robots? The café’s robots, called OriHime and OriHime-D, are operated remotely by individuals with physical disabilities, chronic illnesses, or social anxieties who might not otherwise be able to work in traditional settings. Can I interact with the robots? Yes, one of the highlights is that you can speak to the robot operators in real time. The robots are equipped with microphones and speakers, allowing for two-way conversations between the customer and the operator. Is it a functioning café or just an exhibition? It’s a fully functioning café! You can order food and drinks while being served by the robot waitstaff, making it a novel and meaningful dining experience. Do I need a reservation? Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends or holidays. You can usually book online via their official website , and sometimes walk-ins are possible on quieter days. What kind of food and drinks do they serve? The menu includes coffee, tea, juices, light snacks, and desserts, often themed around the futuristic and inclusive vibe of the café. Is it child-friendly? Absolutely. Kids love the robots and the interactive experience, and it’s a great way to introduce them to technology, empathy, and accessibility awareness. What’s the goal of the café? Beyond being a cool tech attraction, the café exists to: ● Promote inclusive employment ● Demonstrate the potential of remote work through robotics ● Raise awareness about barrier-free innovation in society Is the café part of a larger project? Yes, it was developed by OryLab Inc. and is part of ongoing research and activism to help people with disabilities find fulfilling, dignified employment through robotics and telepresence. Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing For peace of mind abroad, we recommend travel insurance. SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies, with options for adventure sports and electronics theft. SafetyWing's Complete Plan  offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits. Book Transport Taxis, Trains, Planes, Buses & Ferries in Advance Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless transport booking experience. With booking.closerlives.com , you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Interactive Map Japan Check out all of the places we visited in Japan courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap a number for more information, including our blog posts and links to reviews. Wanderlog  is a free travel planning app where you can create itineraries, organize flights, hotels, and car reservations, view places to visit, and collaborate with friends. Closer Lives Travel Hub Destinations, Tips & Essentials Head over to our Travel Hub – it’s packed with free country guides, helpful travel blogs, videos from the road, and tips to help you travel smarter (and cheaper!). Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already out exploring, we've got resources to help you every step of the way. Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.