Is Akamon (Red Gate) at the University of Tokyo currently accessible?

According to reports, the Akamon (Red Gate) at the University of Tokyo is currently temporarily closed due to construction, making passage impossible. Only photography is permitted.

Can the general public use the student cafeteria on the University of Tokyo campus?

Yes, the student cafeteria located in front of Yasuda Auditorium at the University of Tokyo is open for use by the general public, not just university students. It's spacious and offers a wide variety of menu options, making it a great place for a quick meal or a drink.

Can I use the Tokyo Metro Pass when traveling from Yanaka Ginza to Shibuya?

The closest station to Yanaka Ginza is Nishi-Nippori Station. From there, you can travel to Shibuya by subway using the Tokyo Metro Pass. While the JR Yamanote Line does not accept the Metro Pass, you can transfer to a subway line and use it without any additional cost.

Can I see a red torii gate tunnel at Nezu Shrine, similar to Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto?

Yes, Nezu Shrine features a tunnel of red torii gates that is reminiscent of the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. It's a place where you can experience a unique, traditional Japanese atmosphere.

Tokyo Yanessen Family Walk 2026: Nezu Shrine & Yanaka Ginza

If your first day in Tokyo dazzled you with the glittering nightlife of Shinjuku and Roppongi,

then day two is perfect for exploring the city's charming old-world character.

1. Tokyo University: A Family-Friendly Stroll Starting at Akamon

From our hotel in Nishi-Shinjuku, we hopped on the Marunouchi Line and

arrived at Hongo-sanchome Station!

Just a short walk from Exit 3, you'll spot the iconic red gate of Tokyo University,

the “Akamon” (Red Gate).

During our visit, the Akamon was temporarily closed for renovations, so passage wasn't possible.

We snapped a quick photo and headed straight into the Tokyo University campus instead.

Every building on campus exuded a classic, sophisticated charm.

It truly felt like a prestigious institution!

We explored Sanshiro Pond and

the grand Yasuda Auditorium.

It was a wonderful Tokyo attraction to walk around with our family, and I highly recommend visiting Tokyo University with kids!

In front of Yasuda Auditorium, there's a student cafeteria that's

open to the public, not just students.

It's quite spacious with a diverse menu, making it a great spot for a quick meal or a refreshing drink.

Just a heads-up: photography is not allowed inside.

2. Nezu Shrine: A Tunnel of Red Torii Gates in Tokyo

After our stroll through Tokyo University, we headed to Nezu Shrine, our next Tokyo destination.

The narrow streets leading to Nezu Shrine felt straight out of a Japanese anime!

As we walked through the alleys, we soon arrived at Nezu Shrine, where we were greeted by a tunnel of vibrant red torii gates, reminiscent of Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine.

Perhaps because of its distinctly traditional Japanese ambiance, there were many Western tourists.

A light drizzle only added to the shrine's atmospheric charm.

Nezu Shrine is an excellent Tokyo spot to visit, especially when combined with a walk through Tokyo University.

There are also many quaint cafes around Nezu Shrine, perfect for a short break.

3. Yanaka Ginza: Tokyo's Charming Cat Town Market

After exploring Nezu Shrine, our next stop was Yanaka Ginza.

It's just a short walk from the shrine.

Yanaka Ginza is a famous traditional market in Tokyo,

known for its delicious street snacks and charming little shops.

Personally, I found the pottery shops particularly lovely.

True to its reputation as a 'cat town,' many shop signs feature cute cat illustrations.

Though, ironically, we didn't spot a single real cat!

As we strolled through the shopping street, we came across

“Yuyake Dandan,” the famous Sunset Stairs, renowned for its beautiful sunsets.

Due to our schedule, we missed the actual sunset,

but we made sure to capture some memorable photos at this popular spot.

4. Capping Off the Day in Shibuya

After exploring Yanaka Ginza, our planned itinerary for family-friendly Tokyo attractions

originally included Ueno and Asakusa.

However, we had walked quite a bit, and time had flown by, so we decided to head straight to Shibuya instead.

The closest station to Yanaka Ginza is “Nishi-Nippori Station.”

While the JR Yamanote Line offers a direct route to Shibuya without transfers,

the JR lines aren't covered by the Tokyo Metro Pass.

However, by utilizing the Tokyo Metro Pass, you can travel by subway from

Nishi-Nippori Station to Shibuya.

It requires a transfer,

but thanks to the Metro Pass, we could travel without any extra fare concerns.

Tokyo Metro Pass3ha.in

The Tokyo Metro Pass offers unlimited subway rides for 24, 48, or 72 hours.

If you get lost or

if your Tokyo itinerary changes unexpectedly, like ours did,

you can get on and off the subway as much as you like without worrying about transportation costs.

It was also incredibly convenient not having to check routes and buy individual tickets every time.

In Shibuya, we indulged my kid's love for music at Tower Records,

enjoyed a delicious dinner, and

spent an exhilarating evening repeatedly crossing the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing!

After a fantastic second day of Tokyo exploration,

we again used our Tokyo Metro Pass for the journey back from Shibuya to our hotel in Nishi-Shinjuku.

Our accommodation for our Tokyo trip was the Rose Garden Hotel Nishi-Shinjuku,

just one stop away from Shinjuku Station at “Nishi-Shinjuku Station.”

Tokyo Family Trip Hotel Recommendation: Shinjuku Rose Garden Hotel - Review of a Great Value Bunk Bed Triple Roomblog.naver.com

Having the Marunouchi Line subway station right in front of the hotel was incredibly convenient.

Unlike the bustling Kabukicho area, Nishi-Shinjuku is an office district, offering a clean and quiet stay.

If you're traveling with family, like us, or prefer a peaceful retreat while still being close to central Tokyo, this neighborhood is highly recommended.