Ueno is a bustling mini-city with one half devoted to shopping and restaurants, the other half to a park with a zoo, museums, and theater halls. It's a bit grittier than other areas of Tokyo, with the Ameyoko shopping street being open air, market style, but there are also large department stores. Outside of shopping, here are some ideas for things to do in Ueno.
Tokyo and Japan’s oldest zoo is a good place to check out caged animals. Entrance fee.
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The Ameyoko Shopping street is a lively area of open stalls, small food vendors and a mix match of products and shops. It's not as clean and sophisticated as most shopping areas in Tokyo, but it makes a interesting visit.
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One of the many museums in Ueno, the Tokyo National Museum is devoted Japanese art and history - including displays of Ukiyo-e, Edo era swords and various cultural artifacts from Japan’s long history.
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The National Museum of Nature and Science near Ueno station has a lot of interactive displays, stuffed animals and dinosaur replicas.
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NATIONAL MUSEUM OF WESTERN ART
The National Museum of Western Art in Ueno has a great collection of European and Western art in a well designed and large space. Among the many works are pieces by Monet and Picasso. Closed Mondays.
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TOKYO METROPOLITAN ART MUSEUM
The Tokyo Art Museum has continually changing shows and exhibitions and galleries, check their website for the latest info. Closed 1st & 3rd Mon of the month.
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PADDLE BOATS
At the the pier of the Bentendou pond, one can rent goose shaped boats that are motored by self-pedaling or small leisure boats with oars. Price is about 1000 for 30 minutes.
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AKIHABARA
Akihabara, Tokyo's electronic and anime spot, is a 15 minute walk south of Ueno, so the two areas can easily be combined. When you reach the end of Ameyoko street, just keep heading south!
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