Must-Visit Destinations for Morning Person in Tokyo, So Much Fun!

There’s a saying, “The early bird catches the worm,” meaning that those who wake up early to start their day have a greater chance of achieving success or opportunities.

This saying seems to be embraced by many in Japan, as they wake up earlier to engage in positive activities before heading to school or work. This culture is known as “asakatsu” (morning activities).

If you consider yourself a morning person and happen to be in Tokyo, you can adopt “asakatsu” by exploring morning destinations that offer unique experiences.

For instance, you can visit Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple to attend a morning ceremony, savor 18 varieties of Japan’s famous traditional breakfast dishes, or explore the serene Tama area with shukubo accommodations in the mountains.

There, you can experience the beauty of waterfalls and the forest’s phytoncides, which provide calming effects for the body and mind. Alternatively, you can visit the Toyosu Market to witness the world’s largest tuna auction.

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3 Morning Destinations in Tokyo

Leave the comfort of your hotel bed early and enjoy the beauty of Tokyo’s mornings. This will create unforgettable memories.

Here are three exciting morning destinations in Tokyo worth trying:

1. Tsumugi Café at Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

Not far from Ginza, you’ll find the famous Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, recognized as a National Important Cultural Property of Japan.

The temple is renowned for its unique architecture inspired by ancient Indian and Asian Buddhist designs.

In the main hall, a morning ceremony is held daily at 7:00 AM, open to the public. Within the temple grounds, you’ll find the Tsumugi Café, a perfect spot to relax after visiting.

Here, you can enjoy the signature dish, “18-Item Breakfast,” which includes an array of delicacies such as kamaboko (fish cake), kombu tsukudani (sweet seaweed), truffle tamagoyaki (egg roll), rice porridge, and miso soup.

While dining, you can admire the spacious gardens and stunning architecture, offering a satisfying experience for both the eyes and the palate.

Location Details:

Name: Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple
Address: 3-15-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Official Website

2. Seizan-so Inn at Mount Mitake

Located in the Tama region, western Tokyo, Mount Mitake stands at 929 meters and has long been a spiritual center and a place of worship.

Near the summit, there are about 20 shukubo (pilgrimage inns), some offering unique experiences like takigyo (meditation under a waterfall).

One such inn is Seizan-so, which provides accommodations, meals, and the opportunity to participate in serene meditation rituals surrounded by nature.

For guests staying at Seizan-so, waterfall meditation is offered in two sessions: at night and early morning. After hiking a 30-minute mountain trail, you’ll reach the waterfall location.

The ritual involves standing under the waterfall for 10 seconds, repeated three times. The refreshing cold water helps clear the mind and offers a rebirth-like sensation.

Additionally, you can enjoy guided forest meditation, though English proficiency may be limited, so bringing a Japanese-speaking guide is recommended.

This ritual is available year-round, but the water can be extremely cold during winter, so it’s recommended only for those with strong stamina and determination.

Location Details:

Name: Shukubo Seizan-so
Address: 43 Mitakesan, Ome-shi, Tokyo
Official Website

3. Toyosu Market

The Toyosu Market in Tokyo is one of the best morning destinations. Here, you can observe fish and agricultural product auctions that take place early in the morning.

The tuna auction is the most popular event, starting before 5:00 AM, with long queues of visitors eager to watch buyers compete for fresh tuna.