Here, you are standing at a special spiritual “power spot” where the founder of the samurai dynasty that unified Japan and ruled from Edo for about 260 years once came to pray. Breathing the same air that a once-great ruler did, you too can take your first step on your own path toward becoming a hero. When you pass through Kaminarimon Gate, famous for its giant red lantern, a world of traditional “this is Japan” scenery opens up before you, just like in films and postcards. Along Nakamise Street, which leads to Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, the aroma of roasted rice crackers and sweet dorayaki fills the air, while rows of fans, Japanese accessories and handcrafted souvenirs create an atmosphere where it feels as if a samurai might step out from around the corner at any moment. By wafting incense smoke over yourself to pray for good health, drawing an omikuji fortune, and simply strolling along the Sumida River or through the backstreets, you can enjoy a compact yet rich “this is Japan” moment — an unforgettable experience you will carry with you long after you leave.

An area that embodies Tokyo, where future and tradition meet In a deep forest you would never expect in the middle of the city, you step into a sacred realm connected to Japan’s emperor (Tenno). Here, you can enjoy a quiet moment that feels as if you are receiving a share of the emperor’s blessing and energy. Meiji Jingu Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, surrounded by a forest grown from trees donated from all over Japan more than 100 years ago. Just a few minutes from Harajuku Station, once you pass under the giant torii gate, the air changes and the city noise fades away. It is widely known as a spiritual “power spot” where wishes are said to come true, and in the quiet of the forest you can pause for a moment and gently reflect on your own path and the happiness of the people who matter to you. Step back out of the trees and you are immediately in Harajuku and Omotesando – fashionable streets lined with cafés, boutiques and young energy from around the world. It is a place where you can quietly reset your mind, receive the blessing and strength of Japan’s emperor, then enjoy the glamorous side of the city – and truly feel Tokyo as the city where future and tradition meet.

Tokyo’s only natural ravine – a “cleansing” power spot in the city Todoroki Valley, in Setagaya, is a natural ravine carved over many years by the Yazawa River – the only true valley of its kind remaining within Tokyo’s 23 wards. Step down into the path and suddenly the city fades away: a canopy of green overhead, the gentle sound of running water at your feet, and a quiet “green tunnel” that feels completely different from the Tokyo above. Deeper in the valley you’ll find Todoroki Fudoson Temple and a small waterfall once used by monks for purification rituals. This area is widely regarded as a power spot for “cleansing and refreshment,” helping to wash away mental and physical fatigue. Simply walking along the stream, taking a deep breath, and putting your hands together at the temple can create a little distance from work, everyday stress, or anxiety about checkups and treatment— and gently bring your focus back to yourself and the people who matter to you. Todoroki Valley is a small sanctuary of “natural Tokyo”, where you can quietly reset before returning to the pace of the city.