What Is to See and Do in Roppongi? – A Local’s Guide

Roppongi is a hot spot of Tokyo, well-known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse attractions. Located just to the south of famous Shibuya district, Roppongi has plenty to offer for day-trippers and travelers with a sense of adventure. Whether you’re an art-lover or an adrenaline junky, there’s something for everyone in the ever-changing Roppongi.

Explore the Attractions of Roppongi

For a taste of Roppongi’s modern vibes and culture, checkout the Mori Art Museum. Dedicated to contemporary visual art, displays range from sculptures to paintings, and feature works from some of the world’s best contemporary artists. If art is your bag, the nearby Suntory Museum of Art is another must-visit spot. The museum is housed in a stunning building resembling an origami crane, and exhibitions rotate periodically to remain fresh and exciting.

For the movie buffs among you, why not absorb some Japanese culture with a trip to the ¥1 cinema at Tokyo Tower? The ¥1 Cinema is one of the cheapest ways to catch up on all of the latest Hollywood blockbusters in town. Similarly, the charming National Art Center Tokyo features large-scale ongoing exhibitions that should interest any art enthusiast.

Roaming Around Roppongi

If you fancy walking off your breakfast, there are several spots around Roppongi with great scenery and strollworthy views. The mesmerizing Tokyo Tower offers amazing vistas over its postmodern heights, there you can also click pictures with friends or just meditate in its environs. Similarly, you can traverse Roppongi’s nearby Tokyo Midtown gardens – home to over 200 species of plant life – or drop into Aoyama Cemetery for an eery yet soothing experience. For some retail indulgences, you can check out the shops at Tokyo Midtown, where there’s always something new to experience and capture in your shopping list.

Taste The Best of Japanese Cuisine In Tokyo

If you’re up for discovering new flavors, then you’re definitely in good hands here. The restaurants and Izakayas (Japanese-style bars) scattered across town each offer something delicious that you should do justice to. With vegan options as well, it’s worth checking out spots like My Little Vegetable for some plant-based friendly eats, or what about Mottainai for some yummy vegan ramen?

Japanese street food is plentiful in Roppongi too – why not take a spin around Harajuku Gyozaro? This standing restaurant specialices in gyozas (Chinese dumplings) with toppings like cheese, mentai pork and prawn and even chili cheese gyozas!

Experience Roppongi’s Nightlife

No visit to Roppongi is complete without experiencing its wild nightlife. One of Tokyo’s most notorious hotspots for expats and locals alike, there are plenty of areas where you can sip craft beers or sticky sake until the wee hours of the morning. Take your pick from spots like Muse, a pulsating live music venue known for its authentic underground atmosphere and tasty food menu, or why not visit Rising Sun Rock Bar for some rockin’ vibes that go late into the night?

For something a bit more plush, there’s always Bar Oak, a stunning boutique bar full of vintage decor and modern favorites – comprising everything from Japanese whiskey cocktails to classic martinis. The evening can conclude in some serious dancing at one of Roppongi’s many nightclubs and live music venues. Robust, raucous and full of energy after midnight at all times; this area lives up to its reputation as being Tokyo’s main nightlife hub.

All in all, Roppongi has cemented itself as one of Tokyo’s most beloved districts – with plenty to offer for tourists, locals and expats living in Japan alike. There’s still plenty more to uncover that I haven’t mentioned in this guide; so why not take a wander around and see what wows you? You won’t be disappointed.

Unveiling Roppongi from a Local’s Perspective

As a local, I want to take you on a journey beyond the popular tourist spots in Roppongi and introduce you to some hidden gems that only locals know about.

Discover Hidden Treasures

While the Mori Art Museum and the Tokyo Tower are popular spots, let me tell you about some of the more unique hidden gems in Roppongi. Visit the Mohri Garden located behind the Suntory Museum of Art, a tranquil oasis perfect for a peaceful stroll. Another exciting spot is the Nogi Shrine, a peaceful escape with serene surroundings. If you are in the mood for some shopping, spend your time exploring the Roppongi Hills shopping mall.

Savour the Unique Flavours

Roppongi is known for its quirky, yet delicious, cuisine. A must-try food is the ‘Omakase Sushi’ at Sushi Kanda – where the sushi chef personally selects each dish depending on the guest’s preference. For those with a sweet tooth, the Roasted Green Tea Ice Cream at Nanaya is a must-try. Want to learn more about the food culture? Visit the Tsukiji Fish Market and see how the fish gets from the ocean to your plate.

Dive into the Local Culture

Roppongi offers various cultural experiences to tourists beyond just the popular museums & galleries. To get a true sense of the city’s traditions, visit the Temples located nearby the Roppongi Hills area, a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleyways rife with historical buildings. Catch a traditional Japanese Kabuki theatre performance or music show at the Roppongi Square. Don’t forget to try the traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the Suzukake tea house to get an authentic cultural experience.

Stories from the Past

Roppongi’s history dates back to the Edo period, where brave Samurai warriors traveled through the area. They left their mark in the form of various shrines and temples such as Meiji Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Tokyo. Visit the Roppongi Hills Observatory to get a glance of the city’s skyline and get an insight into its rich history.

Off the Beaten Path

Get off the beaten path by exploring the local alleys and streets of Roppongi. Take a walking tour through the city and experience the local life. For a unique experience, visit the Tokyo Tower Aquarium and enjoy the beautiful scenery of marine life inside the tower itself. Trust us- the beautiful view and unique experience are worth it!

With this insider’s guide to Roppongi, get ready to immerse yourself in the culture, food, and history of one of the most exciting cities in Japan.