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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Ota sharing quite a few of those!
Welcome to Ota, where time slows down and adventure awaits at every corner.
From the bustling markets to the tranquil shrines, this city is bursting with culture and excitement.
Whether you’re craving for a taste of local cuisine or seeking to uncover hidden gems, Ota has something for every traveler.
Jump in and let your senses take over as we explore the top things to do in Ota.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Ota:
1. Sensoji Temple
Sensoji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the Asakusa neighborhood of Tokyo. It is one of the city’s oldest and most important temples.
What to see or do: Visitors to Sensoji Temple can admire the impressive architecture, including the soaring five-story pagoda and the famous Kaminarimon Gate.
Inside the temple complex, there are numerous shrines and buildings to explore, including the main worship hall, which is said to contain a statue of the Buddhist goddess of mercy.
You can also stroll along the bustling Nakamise shopping street, which is lined with vendors selling snacks, souvenirs, and traditional Japanese handicrafts.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of visiting Sensoji Temple is experiencing the traditional Japanese culture and customs that are still practiced here, such as purifying yourself with smoke from burning incense and tossing coins into an offering box to make a wish.
Insider travel tips: To beat the crowds, it’s best to visit Sensoji Temple early in the morning. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved.
And don’t forget to try some of the local street food, such as sweet potato cakes and grilled mochi (rice cakes).
2. Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree is a broadcasting tower and observation deck, it is the tallest building in Japan.
What to see or do: Go up to the observation deck and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo.
Don’t miss: The glass floor section where you can look down at the bustling city beneath your feet.
Insider travel tips: Avoid long lines by booking tickets in advance online. Visit during sunset for stunning views of Tokyo’s cityscape.
Check out the nearby Solamachi shopping and entertainment complex for some post-observation deck fun.
3. Ueno Park
A massive public park in the heart of Tokyo, covering an area of over 133 acres.
What to see or do: – Take a stroll around Shinobazu Pond and admire the lotus flowers.
Don’t miss: The giant torii gate at the entrance to the park, which marks the entrance to the famous temples and shrines within.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend a full day at Ueno Park as there is a lot to see and do.
4. Meiji Shrine
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and for a chance to see the shrine’s priests perform rituals. Dress modestly and be respectful while inside the shrine.
5. Tsukiji Market
Tsukiji Market is a world-famous fish market located in Ota, Tokyo, Japan.
What to see or do: Witness the hustle and bustle of the early morning fish auctions, and admire the many varieties of seafood being sold by vendors.
Check out the outer market where you can find a wide variety of street food and local snacks to try.
Don’t miss: The chance to try fresh sushi at one of the many sushi restaurants in and around the market. The Tsukiji Tuna Auction, where you can witness the competitive bidding for the prized tuna fish.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to see the fish auction as it is limited to a small number of visitors each day. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for crowds, Tsukiji Market is a popular attraction among tourists and locals alike.
If you plan on trying the sushi, be prepared to wait as a lot of the restaurants have long lines.
6. Asakusa Shrine
Asakusa Shrine is a popular Shinto shrine located in Ota, Tokyo.
What to see or do: The shrine is known for its vibrant atmosphere, colorful lanterns, and the famous Sanja Matsuri festival held in late May.
At the shrine, you can also see a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony taking place, or try your luck with omikuji, a kind of fortune-telling paper slip.
Don’t miss: Make sure to stop by the Kaminarimon Gate, the iconic entrance to the shrine, which features a large red lantern.
Also, don’t miss out on the chance to try some traditional street food in the bustling Nakamise shopping street right outside the shrine.
Insider travel tips: If you can, try to visit the shrine early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds.
If you’re visiting during Sanja Matsuri, be prepared for large crowds and limited transportation options.
7. Odaiba
A man-made island located in Tokyo Bay, Japan, that serves as a popular leisure and entertainment destination.
What to see or do: Odaiba offers a range of activities and attractions such as shopping centers, museums, amusement parks, hot springs, and stunning views of the city skyline.
Visit the iconic Rainbow Bridge, take a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel, explore the Oedo Onsen Monogatari hot-spring theme park, or visit the popular Toyota Mega Web.
Don’t miss: The Gundam Statue, a life-size replica of the RX-0 Unicorn Gundam robot, is a must-see for anime fans. Also, the TeamLab Borderless digital art museum offers mesmerizing, immersive exhibits that you can interact with.
Insider travel tips: Take a stroll along the beachfront path of Odaiba Seaside Park, which offers picturesque views of Tokyo Bay. Don’t forget to visit Palette Town, where you can find a shopping mall and the largest Ferris wheel in Japan.
Finally, plan a visit during the evening hours to enjoy the stunning city skyline views illuminated at night.
8. Edo-Tokyo Museum
A museum that displays the history and culture of Tokyo from the Edo period (1603-1868) to the present day.
What to see or do: Guests can experience the streets of old Tokyo, view scale models of the city, and browse exhibits detailing Tokyo’s growth and development.
Museum goers can also attend various workshops, watch short films, and interact with the displays.
Don’t miss: The life-sized models of the Nihonbashi Bridge and the Takahashi Shachu residence, as well as the miniature replica of Tokyo in the Edo Period.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the weekday to avoid crowds, and consider purchasing a ticket in advance to skip the line. Be sure to check out the gift shop for unique souvenirs and books on Tokyo’s history.
9. Tokyo Sea Life Park
A state-of-the-art aquarium complex in Tokyo that houses over 600 species of marine life.
What to see or do: Explore the large, diverse exhibits that include jellyfish, penguins, seals, and even the iconic ocean sunfish. Visitors can also attend feeding sessions and interactive shows throughout the day.
Don’t miss: The massive main tank that simulates the Kuroshio Sea, and the unique jellyfish area that features a mesmerizing display of pulsing, colorful creatures.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and take advantage of discounted admission rates if you come in the afternoon.
Plan your visit around the feeding sessions to see the animals at their most active, and be sure to check out the onsite restaurant for some tasty seafood dishes.
10. Yumenoshima Tropical Greenhouse Dome
Yumenoshima Tropical Greenhouse Dome is a large botanical garden located in Ota, Tokyo.
What to see or do: Visitors can see and experience various tropical plants from different countries and regions.
The dome houses a variety of themed gardens, such as a rainforest garden, a palm garden, an aquatic garden, and even a fruit tree garden.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the “Jungle Adventure” area, where you can walk along a path surrounded by lush vegetation, hidden waterfalls, and exotic animals like giant turtles and colorful birds.
Insider travel tips: Visit on a sunny day to enjoy the natural sunlight that shines through the dome.
Take a break at the coffee shop in the garden and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa while you relax amidst the tropical setting.
11. Ojima Komatsugawa Park
A serene public park located in the Ota ward of Tokyo, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the picturesque park that spans over 28 acres with plenty of greenery, a serene pond, and children’s playgrounds.
Admire the cherry blossom trees during springtime. Enjoy hiking or cycling along the park’s many walking paths.
Don’t miss: The stunning view of Tokyo Skytree from the park. Make sure to visit during cherry blossom season to see beautiful pink flowers in bloom.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic and lounge by the pond for a relaxed evening. The park can get crowded during major holidays and cherry blossom season, so plan accordingly.
Rent a bike to enjoy the park’s many trails.
12. Kiyosumi Gardens
A traditional Japanese garden with a pond, stone bridges, and a teahouse located in Tokyo’s Ota ward.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the pond to appreciate the carefully crafted landscape, cross over the stepping stone path, and visit the teahouse for a cup of matcha tea.
Don’t miss: The view of the garden from the two wooden verandas, which offer a different perspective on the scenery.
Insider travel tips: Visit the garden in autumn to see the vibrant colors of the leaves, or early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
There is also a nearby museum, the Fukagawa Edo Museum, dedicated to the history of the area and the daily life of the Edo period.
13. Yumenoshima Park Archery Field
Yumenoshima Park Archery Field is a modern and spacious archery facility located in Ota, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can try their hand at archery and experience the thrill of hitting a bullseye. The facility offers a variety of rental equipment and coaching classes for both beginners and experienced archers.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the impressive range of targets, including traditional Japanese-style targets and 3D animal targets. The park also features a beautiful Japanese garden and walking trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll after your archery session.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit is during the annual Tokyo Olympics when Yumenoshima Park Archery Field will host the archery competitions.
Make sure to book your tickets in advance if you want to catch the action live.
Additionally, the park can get crowded on weekends, so it’s best to visit during weekdays if you want to avoid the crowds.
14. Shiokaze Park
A scenic waterfront park located in the Ota ward of Tokyo, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Tokyo Bay and airplanes taking off and landing at Haneda Airport. Take a stroll or jog along the 1.
3 km promenade, relax on the sandy beach, or have a picnic in one of the many grassy areas. There’s also a playground for children and a nearby boat harbor.
Don’t miss: The stunning sunset views from the park.
It’s a perfect spot to witness the sun sink behind the Tokyo skyline and the bay, casting a warm golden glow across the whole area.
Insider travel tips: Bring a blanket, snacks, and drinks to enjoy a sunset picnic.
The best time to visit is in the late afternoon or early evening when the weather is cool and the crowds are smaller.
Don’t forget to bring a jacket, as it can get chilly near the bay. Also, check the flight schedules beforehand to catch a glimpse of the airplanes zooming overhead.