Here’s the top 3 tourist traps to avoid in Tokyo and where to go instead! There are plenty of alternatives to get the same result that you want (a great view, better drinking spots, etc.) plus you get to avoid excessive crowds and fees!
Here’s the list in order:
1) Akihabara
Want anime goods? Spending time in some Maid cafes? Akihabara should only be attempted if you really, really have to! Otherwise, head over to Nakano Broadway!
Alternative : Nakano Broadway
A very popular locale among locals and foreign Anime fans alike! Shop at your leisure for mainstream Anime merchandise as well as more uncommon ones. Definitely check this place out!
2) Tokyo Skytree
Sure it offers a great view of the city but you’ll have to pay a lot of money (and queue in 2 separate lines to get up there!) Here’s an alternative that provides you the same view and is also FREE!
Alternative:
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
This place is slowly starting to gain popularity but for now, it’s a safer bet than the Skytree. You can head up to the observatory deck to get an amazing view of the city. Admission is FREE!
3) Golden Gai “Piss Alley”
Looking forward to a night of drinking with your friends? Golden Gai and its network of alleys has about 200 bars which might seem perfect. Except for the fact that there’s usually crowds to deal with and many bars will charge a steep entry fee to foreigners just to enter and sit down!
Alternative:
Shimokitazawa
This is a district in Tokyo that is old-school and has a laid back atmosphere. There’s plenty of jazz bars, live music performances and even a delicious restaurant selling the best Japanese pancakes called “Flippers” there. Truly a must place to visit that’ll get you your drinks and allow you to be away from the crowds at the same time!
AloJapan.com