From its lush park filled with maple trees and cherry blossoms to its lively shopping streets and bustling open-air market, Ueno is one of the most captivating neighbourhoods in Tokyo. Admire beautiful Zen and Shinto temples, visit world-class museums and get up close with giant pandas at one of the top zoos in Asia.
Things to do in Ueno
Ueno is home to some of the most beautiful temples in the city, including Inokashira Benzaiten built in the 17th century. Marooned on an island in Ueno Park, the temple is dedicated to a Japanese goddess and can be accessed by rowboat. In spring, the park is blanketed in pink cherry blossoms.
The Tokyo National Museum is filled with ancient treasures and antiquities. Highlights include intricate ukiyo-e woodblock art, hand-painted ceramics and centuries-old samurai swords. Visit the National Museum of Western Art to admire masterpieces by Picasso, Van Gogh, Renoir and other international heavyweights.
Founded in the 1800s, Ueno Zoo is home to a family of adorable giant pandas. In addition to the famous black-and-white bears, you can get up close with lemurs, giraffes, gorillas and other animals. Don’t miss native species like the Japanese macaques and Ussuri brown bears.
It’s hard to miss Ameya-Yokochō, an enormous open-air market filled with craft stalls and food stands. Stock up on herbs and spices, browse colourful souvenirs and try local street food snacks like “yakitori” chicken skewers, “takoyaki” octopus balls and sweet crepes topped with whipped cream and fruit.
Getting around Ueno
Ueno is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot, while taxis are a good option for longer distances. The district is serviced by Ueno Station on the Ginza and Hibiya lines of the Tokyo Metro. Other transport options include Okachimachi Station and Keisei Ueno Station. Trains run between Ueno Station and Haneda Airport in around one hour and Narita Airport in 1.5 hours.