Things To Do
in Chiyoda-ku

Chiyoda-ku is a central ward of Tokyo, Japan, known for its rich history and modern attractions. It is home to iconic landmarks such as the Imperial Palace, the National Diet Building, and the bustling business district of Marunouchi. Chiyoda-ku seamlessly blends traditional Japanese culture with contemporary urban life, making it a vibrant area for both locals and tourists.

The ward offers numerous parks, museums, and shopping opportunities, ensuring a diverse experience for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Historical Chiyoda
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Imperial Palace East Gardens, where you can enjoy beautiful landscapes and historical ruins.

afternoon
:

Head to the National Museum of Modern Art to appreciate Japanese art, followed by a leisurely stroll through Chiyoda's historic streets.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional izakaya in the Marunouchi district, sampling local sake and seasonal dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Modern Attractions and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Tokyo Station and explore the surrounding Marunouchi area, including the famous Kitte shopping complex.

afternoon
:

Take a trip to Akihabara to experience the vibrant otaku culture, with its electronics shops and themed cafes.

evening
:

Enjoy the nightlife in Akihabara or Ginza, where you can find upscale bars and entertainment options.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$30
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🥡Takeout Meal$8
Coffee$4
🚉Metro Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences with historical sites.
  • Excellent public transportation system.
  • Variety of dining options from traditional to modern.
  • Can be crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Higher cost of living compared to other Japanese cities.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Chiyoda-ku

Visit one of these nice places.

Imperial Palace

Capture the stunning architecture and serene grounds of the Imperial Palace, especially during cherry blossom season.

Tokyo Station

Photograph the iconic red brick station building, beautifully illuminated at night.

Chidorigafuchi Park

A picturesque spot for cherry blossom photography in spring, with stunning views of the moat and city skyline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chiyoda-ku

Chiyoda-ku offers a diverse culinary landscape that reflects both traditional Japanese cuisine and contemporary dining experiences.

Chiyoda-ku Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Soba Noodles

Buckwheat noodles served chilled or in a hot broth, often accompanied by tempura.

Must-Try!

Kaiseki

A traditional multi-course meal that emphasizes seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nihonbashi Takashimaya

A famous department store with a food basement offering a variety of gourmet snacks and traditional sweets.

Ameyoko Market

A bustling market street near Ueno, known for street food stalls selling grilled seafood, takoyaki, and more.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chiyoda-ku experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures and cherry blossoms; summer (June to August) is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Autumn (September to November) features cooler weather and beautiful foliage, while winter (December to February) is cold with occasional snowfall, averaging around 5°C (41°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bow as a Greeting

Bowing is the traditional form of greeting; a slight bow shows respect.

Remove Shoes Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Be Quiet on Public Transport

Maintain a quiet demeanor on public transport; avoid loud conversations and phone calls.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chiyoda-ku is generally safe, with low crime rates. Visitors should remain vigilant in crowded areas and avoid displaying valuables. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police or 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Chiyoda-ku

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; good service is standard, and tips may be seen as rude.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still preferred in many places; ATMs are available in convenience stores.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Experience cherry blossoms in full bloom, particularly around the Imperial Palace and Chidorigafuchi Park.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather; enjoy summer festivals and fireworks displays throughout the city.

Autumn

Witness vibrant autumn foliage, especially in parks; it's a perfect time for outdoor activities.

Winter

Cool temperatures with occasional snowfall; enjoy winter illuminations and seasonal foods.

Nightlife Guide

Chiyoda-ku at Night

Chiyoda-ku's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, ranging from upscale bars in Ginza to themed cafes in Akihabara. The area offers a variety of dining options, including izakayas where locals unwind after work. Ginza features high-end lounges and cocktail bars, while Akihabara is known for its quirky themed establishments. Many venues stay open late, providing ample opportunities for evening entertainment.

Hiking in Chiyoda-ku

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tama River Hiking Trail

A scenic trail along the Tama River, suitable for leisurely hikes and enjoying nature.

Mount Takao

Located a short train ride away, Mount Takao offers well-marked trails and stunning views from the summit.

Airports

How to reach Chiyoda-ku by plane.

Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND)

Located about 30 minutes from Chiyoda-ku, Haneda is one of the primary airports serving Tokyo, offering domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chiyoda-ku is highly walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. Major attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot. The area is also well marked with English signage, aiding navigation for tourists.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Business Professionals

Chiyoda-ku is a major business hub, attracting professionals from various industries who work in its numerous corporate offices.

Tourists

The ward sees a significant number of tourists visiting historical sites and modern attractions, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is immensely popular in Japan, with local teams like the Yomiuri Giants drawing large crowds.

Sumo Wrestling

Sumo is a traditional sport with deep cultural significance, and Chiyoda-ku is home to several sumo stables.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chiyoda-ku can be busy, especially during peak hours. However, the public transportation system, including trains and subways, is efficient and widely used, making it easy to navigate the city without a car. The area is well-connected with multiple train lines, including the JR and Tokyo Metro networks.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chiyoda-ku.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check for hidden ingredients like fish sauce.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; however, soba noodles made from buckwheat are a good alternative.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Japan has a high standard of healthcare, with numerous hospitals and clinics in Chiyoda-ku. Visitors can access medical services, and it’s advisable to have travel insurance. Emergency services are efficient, and English-speaking medical staff can be found at some facilities.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide