The National Museum of Nature and Science offers a comprehensive journey through Japan’s natural history and scientific development. Its collections span from pre-Meiji scientific instruments to modern technology, including a real rocket launcher and a digital seismograph tracking earthquakes in real time. The museum is famous for its lifelike dinosaur exhibitions, a major draw for younger visitors, and houses the taxidermied figures of the loyal dog Hachikō and the Antarctic sled dogs Taro and Jiro. The Japan Gallery explores the archipelago's diverse ecosystems, featuring wildlife from Hokkaidō bears to Okinawan giant beetles. Other notable exhibits include an Edo-period mummy and an immersive 360-degree theatre.

The picturesque regional park covers over 23,000 hectares along the coast from Viareggio to Livorno. The grounds feature estates and historic buildings and forested walking trails. You will come across organic farms, apiaries, an archeological area, the Navicelli canal and multiple natural reserves with distinct natural environments. Of course, there is a beach area to swim and cool down after a hike. You can find handy booklets and brochures at the Visitor Centre of Cascine Vecchie. The official website has an exhaustive list of attractions and their opening hours, plus a list of official guides.

The district of Ueno functions as a major transport hub and a concentrated centre for culture and commerce. Its core is Ueno Park, a spacious public ground that contains several major institutions. These include the Ueno Zoo, the Tokyo National Museum with its comprehensive Japanese collection, the National Museum of Nature and Science, and the National Museum of Western Art. South of the station, the Ameya-Yokochō market street presents a different atmosphere. This crowded street with covered alleyways started as a post-war black market, and now features vendors selling seafood, clothing and spices.

Crossing the streets in front of the Shibuya Station is an experience on its own. Approximately 3,000 people cross the road at a time. Many street artists gather in this area to show their performances. You can also find the statue of the famous and loyal dog Hachikō between the station and the intersection. The crossing is most electrifying after dark, particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings, when neon signs and enormous screens bathe the crowds in a kinetic glow. For the best perspective, head to Mag’s Park, the rooftop observatory atop the Shibuya 109-2 department store, which offers a panoramic view of the human tide below.