Delicious sushi, bright and busy neon-lit streets, ancient temples, and tranquil shrines. What’s there not to love about Tokyo? With endless breathtaking views around every corner, it is a dream for all Instagram enthusiasts out there who would like to up their game and capture something different.
Credit: Giphy
Here are 10 Instagram-worthy spots in Tokyo you never knew of before, to help you be a trend setter and not a follower.
1. Nihonbashi Bridge Kirin Statue
Credit: @phoenix.transurfer on Instagram
Nihonbashi Bridge is known as the starting place of all the roads in Japan. The Kirin Statue on the bridge is becoming more popular in recent years after it was featured in the Japanese movie “Kirin no Tsubasa”. This trendy area also features characteristics of both old and new Japan, making it an interesting stop for all.
Places to eat near Nihonbashi Bridge Kirin Statue:
Akasaka Saryo Ouka (11 minutes drive)
Credit: Halal Cafe & Sushi Akasaka Saryo Ouka 赤坂茶寮桜花 on Facebook
Saryo Ouka serves fresh sushi platters and wagyu beef rice. After a day of exploring, this is a perfect meal to refuel! Make sure to try their delicious matcha pancakes and traditional desserts too 
Food Status: Muslim-Owned
Contact: +81 3-5246-6547
Opening hours:
Monday to Saturday – 12.45pm to 3pm, 6pm to 9pm
Closed on Sunday.
Address: 2 Chome-11-4, Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 107-0052, Japan
CoCo Ichibanya – Akihabara branch (11 minutes drive)
Credit: @the_brown_turtle on Instagram
You can’t drop by Japan and not try their iconic Japanese curry, right? Check out Coco Curry House’s menu for a large selection of curry delights you can now enjoy
Food Status: Halal Certified (by Nippon Asia Halal Association)
Contact: +81 3-6260-8667
Address: 1 Chome-6, 1F Kanda Matsunagachō, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0023
Opening hours: 11am to 10pm daily
2. Sensoji (Asakusa Kannon Temple)
Credit: @karen__x on Instagram
Sensoji, or Asakusa Kannon Temple, is the oldest temple in Tokyo. Known for its popularity and vibrant colours, this temple receives a lot of visitors all year round. While the most iconic picture here might be of the giant red lantern at its front gate, try something new by snapping a photo from inside the temple itself instead. A 200m long shopping street, Nakamise, also lies between the temple’s outer gate to the second gate and sells traditional Japanese foods and souvenirs year-round creating a warm and busy atmosphere.
Places to eat near Sensoji (Asakusa Kannon Temple):
Taizan Sakura (4 minutes drive)
Credit: @may.rzz on Instagram
Slurp down a delicious bowl of ramen after a day of sightseeing 
Their other signature dish is curry tsukemen (dipping noodles). Rather than using the sweeter Japanese version of curry, Taizan Sakura serves up a savoury version similar to South Asian curry. If you’re craving something more familiar, they have other fusion dishes on the menu too including keema curry rice, naan bread, and cheese curry ramen.
Food status: Halal-certified
Contact: +81 3-5811-1933
Opening Hours: While we can’t find regular hours on the internet, one of our writers visited this place for lunch in Dec 2018. The restaurant seems to be open from lunchtime onwards, but do take note that some restaurants close in the mid-afternoon to restock and prep for the dinnertime crowd!
Address: 1 Chome-33-8 A1 building 1F, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Sushiken (4 minutes drive)
Credit: @hugothester on Instagram
We can never have enough sushi! Especially authentic Japanese sushi in Japan 
This sushi restaurant in Asakusa has very recently started serving dishes for Muslims! Sushi Ken creates every dish with only the finest ingredients and the freshest seafood 
If you’re a die-hard sushi fan, this is a restaurant you must not miss!
Halal Status: Halal Certified (by Japan Halal Foundation)
Contact: +81 03-5246-6547
Opening hours:
Monday to Saturday – 11.30am to 4pm, 4pm to 11.30pm (last order at 11pm)
Sunday, Public Holidays – 11.30am to 3pm, 3pm to 10pm (last order at 9.30pm)
*Closes on 31st December yearly
Address: 2 Chome-11-4, Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
3. Toyosu Fish Market (formerly Tsukiji Fish Market)
Credit: @jujuumagic on Instagram
The once famous fish auction and Inner Market at Tsukiji closed its doors and moved to Toyosu in October 2018. The Toyosu market still opens for a large tuna auction in the wee hours of the morning, and even has a dedicated observation area for visitors. For those who want to visit the original site, don’t fret as there are still lots of seafood found at the Tsukiji Outer Market.
Credit: @Namietsushima on Instagram
Places to eat near Toyosu Fish Market (formerly Tsukiji Fish Market):
Gyu-Kaku – Akasaka Branch (20 minutes drive)
Credit: @gyukakujapanesebbq on Instagram
Unbelievably delicious grilled beef, cooked just the way you like it 
They have the US$41 Muslim-Friendly Course, and the more upscale US$60 Muslim-Friendly Wagyu Course (which includes beef, chicken, and seafood). So you will definitely be spoiled for choices when you dine here
Food Status: Halal meat and seafood options available. Since this is not a halal-certified restaurant, we advise our readers to dine at your own discretion.
Contact: +81 03-5545-5029
Opening hours:11.30am to 3am daily
Address: Akasaka 3 Chome-12-11, Central Akasaka Building 2nd floor, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052, Japan
Akasaka Saryo Ouka (18 minutes drive)
– refer to food listings above 
4. The Giant Ghibli Clock
Credit: Jessica Patterson on Flickr
Located in the Shiodome section of Tokyo, this giant clock at the Nittele Tower, where Nippon Television Headquarters is located. The clock was designed by Hayao Miyazaki where there were speculations saying that this aesthetic is linked to an anime classic. If you are interested to be mesmerised by the clock in action, be set and ready in front of the giant clock at noon, 3pm, 6pm and 8pm daily.
Places to eat near The Giant Ghibli Clock:
Gyu-Kaku – Akasaka Branch (11 minutes drive)
– refer to food listings above
Akasaka Saryo Ouka (6 minutes drive)
– refer to food listings above
5. Jimbocho Book District
Credit: @ilyadesfois on Twitter
Jimbocho Book District is definitely a place not to be missed by any bookworm in the world. It houses thousands of books in several bookstores all within a street. It is amazing to walk past shelves lined with books along the street. It is definitely a unique sight for the Instagram update.
Places to eat near Jimbocho Book District:
Akasaka Saryo Ouka (11 minutes drive)
– refer to food listings above
CoCo Ichibanya – Akihabara branch (12 minutes drive)
– refer to food listings above
6. Soho Odaiba
Credit: @carson_kuo on Instagram
Be mesmerised by the colourful doors of what would be boring offices. Visit the Odaiba Soho building in the evening where it would be a nicer view when the lights have been turned on.
Places to eat near Soho Odaiba:
Sumiyakiya – Roppongi branch (26 minutes drive)
Credit: @n.syz on Instagram
Sumiyakiya serves Miyazaki Prefecture herb beef. In other words, the cattle feed on herbs. There are several sets for you to choose from but we have our eyes set on the ¥6,500 set. A5 class (aka THE BEST grade) Wagyu, anyone?
Food Status: Halal meat available. Since this is not a halal-certified restaurant, we advise our readers to dine at your own discretion.
Contact: +81 03-3403-5397
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday – 5pm to 10.30pm
Closed on Sundays.
Address: Nishiazabu 3 Chome-20-16, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0031, Japan
Directions: 10 minute walk from Roppongi Station Exit 1a / 5 minute walk from Roppongi Hills
Akasaka Saryo Ouka (23 minutes drive)
– refer to food listings above
7. Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel
Credit: @amistad06k on Instagram
Who would expect that an underground discharge channel would make it into one of the top few Instagram-worthy places in Tokyo? It is the world’s largest underground floodwater diversion facility. It is used about 6-7 times a year where flood water is stored underground to minimise flood damages in the city. It is also a popular place for shooting commercials and movies. Do check out the 3 daily weekday tours they have but note that it is only conducted in Japanese.
Places to eat near Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel:
Kappou Yama (1 hour drive)
Credit: Halal Japanese restaurant Kappou Yama 割烹やま～ハラル和食～ on Facebook
Technically located in Saitama which is outside of Tokyo city itself, Kappou Yama is worth the journey since the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel is out of Tokyo city in the same direction too. The people behind Kappou Yama are dedicated to introducing Japanese cuisine to Muslims. They haven’t left a stone unturned and have tried to incorporate as many popular Japanese foods into their menu as they can. You can only dine in if you’ve made a reservation though so be sure to plan ahead before heading there!
Food Status: Halal Certified (by Japan Halal Foundation)
Contact: +81 04-8711-4119
Opening Hours: 7pm to 9pm (by appointment only), Close every Sunday
Address: 3 Chome-15 Uemine, Chūō-ku, Saitama-shi, Saitama, Tokyo 338-0014, Japan
8. Owl Police Box
Credit: @lichtmalerei on Instagram
Known for their cuteness and quirkiness, there’s always more ideas and creativity from the Japanese. The Owl Police Station is one of 7 in the whole of Japan. They are all unique in their own ways. This one here is located in the east exit of Ikebukuro Station in Tokyo. The shape of an owl is rather intentional as Ikebukuro is very often associated with owls.
Places to eat near the Owl Police Box:
Minokichi – Ikebukuro branch (11 minutes drive)
Credit: @minokichi.official on Instagram
Kyoto Kaiseki in downtown Tokyo? Yes, please! Kaiseiki is a traditional Japanese multi-course meal prepared with special skills and technique and carefully presented to enhance the appearance and seasonal theme of the meal. Not only does the food presentation look impeccable, but the ingredients used are also all seasonal to guarantee freshness!
Food status: Minokichi is certified as a Muslim-friendly restaurant by the Kyoto Council for Sharia and Halal Affairs. Reservation for a halal meal must be placed 5 days before going down.
Contact: (+81) 03-3980-8855
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday – 11am to 11pm
Sunday, Public Holidays – 11am to 10pm
*Closed on New Year’s Day and 3rd Wednesday of Feb and Aug.
Address: Spice Ikebukuro Tobu 15F, 1 Chome-1-25, Nishiikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Directions: 6 minutes on foot from Ikebukuro Station on the JR, Subway or Tobu Tojo line. (Take the west exit). In Tobu Department Store.
9. Kaleidoscope Mirror at Tokyo Plaza Omotesando Harajuku
Credit: @camilanaito on Instagram
The Kaleidoscope mirror along the escalator in Harajuku is one not to be missed. The escalator leads to a lush terrace filled with trees and greenery for shoppers to relax and unwind. It is definitely a drastic change in atmosphere from a bustling fashion district to a quiet and peaceful hideout. While you are there, head to Takeshita Street which is just a short walk away. Takeshita Street is filled with kawaii (cute) fashion and sweet desserts. They are well known for their extravagant crepes and cotton candy.
Places to eat near Kaleidoscope Mirror at Tokyo Plaza Omotesando Harajuku:
Gyumon (7 minutes drive)
Credit: @hanaxryu on Instagram
Located in the bustling streets of Shibuya, Gyumon is a hole-in-the-wall restaurant with authentic halal yakiniku. Show off your grilling skills here! They serve the meat to you raw for you to cook it to your own liking. Lightly marinate the meat with salt and pepper to savour the meat’s delicious taste.
Food Status: Halal meat available, Alcohol served in establishment. Since this is not a halal-certified restaurant, we advise our readers to dine at your own discretion.
Contact: +81 03-5469-2911
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday – 12pm to 4am
Sunday – 12pm to 12am
Address: 3 Chome-14-5 Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0002, Japan
Directions: Take the south exit at Shibuya station across an overhead bridge. Gyumon is a 8-minute walk away.
Menya Kaijin (13 minutes drive)
Credit: @doomenis on Instagram
Visit Menya Kaijin for a hearty bowl of seafood ramen! The fish-and-seafood-based broth is clear & really light but still really yummy. Plus it’s also located in the heart of Tokyo, Shinjuku, which is super convenient to get to!
Food Status: Seafood options available. Since this is not a halal-certified restaurant, we advise our readers to dine at your own discretion. Also, do let the waiter know in advance that you do not want the chicken to be added!
Contact: +81 03-3356-5658
Opening hours:
Monday to Friday – 11am to 3pm, 4.30pm to 11.30pm
Saturday and PH – 11am to 11.30pm
Sunday – 11am – 11pm
Address: 3-35-7 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0022
10. Nezu Shrine Tori Gate Entrance
Credit: @lawrencedcook on Instagram
Nezu Shrine near UENO Park is Tokyo’s oldest and most attractive shrine. The whole architecture of the place stays true to the traditional Japanese culture. The best time to visit the shrine would be in spring when thousands of Azalea bushes bloom white and pink, but the bright shrine gates will be there year-round for you to look at too!
Places to eat near Nezu Shrine Tori Gate Entrance:
Ayam-YA Okachimachi (12 minutes drive)
– refer to food listings above
Yakiniku Panga (14 minutes drive)
Credit: @nik_khairuldin on Instagram
Going to Japan without having a taste of authentic halal wagyu is almost unheard of, and few eateries are better for a wagyu feast than the evergreen Yakiniku Panga, located just a short train ride away from Asakusa! Grill the halal wagyu beef to your own liking and savour every bite of this delicious, juicy and tasty meal.
Food Status: Halal Certified (by Japan Halal Foundation)
Contact: +81 3-3839-8929 or reserve via Hotpepper
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday- 11:30am to 2pm, 5pm to 10:30pm
Sunday – 5:00pm to 10:00pm
Address: 3 Chome-27-9 Taito, Taitō, Tokyo 110-0016, Japan
CoCo Ichibanya Akihabara (14 minutes drive)
– refer to food listings above
There are many different things to explore in Tokyo besides the usual familiar backdrops. Be a trendsetter and start posing at these unique backdrops. It is time to up your Instagram game with all these Insta-worthy sights.