Top 14 Attractions at Ueno
※updated on June 18 2025
Just a 5-minute train ride from JR Tokyo Station, you will arrive at Ueno, an area where history and culture beautifully blend. Originally, Ueno park was the site of Kaneiji Temple, established by order of the Edo Shogunate. Many buildings were destroyed during civil wars, but in the 1800s, the government redeveloped this once devastated land and created Ueno Park. Since then, attractions such as the Tokyo National Museum and Ueno Zoo have been built, making the park a cultural and tourist hub, drawing visitors from across Japan and the world.
Ueno Park is an urban oasis combining the elevated area known as Ueno Hill with the serene Shinobazu Pond. It is beloved by Tokyo residents as a relaxing retreat and remains a highly popular sightseeing destination. Here are some of the top tourist spots within Ueno Park:
1) "UENO"
Just outside the Hirokoji Exit of JR Ueno Station, visitors will find a striking curved digital signage display—Ueno’s newest visual icon. Similar in style to the popular 3D billboard in Shinjuku, this high-impact screen draws attention with its dynamic visuals. Nearby, you’ll also spot a large “UENO” object installation, part of a growing trend across Japan where neighborhood names are turned into stylish photo spots. It’s a must-snap location for social media, so don’t forget to take a picture and share your Ueno adventure online.
2) Tokyo National Museum
Founded in 1872, this is Japan’s oldest and largest museum. Located in Ueno Park, it houses around 120,000 artifacts of Japanese and Asian art and archaeology. The collection includes many national treasures and important cultural properties, such as samurai armor, Buddhist statues, and historic paintings, offering a deep insight into Japan’s rich history and culture. Temporary exhibitions are regularly held, so check the latest information before visiting.
3) Grand Fountain
Located at the center of Ueno Park, the Grand Fountain is an iconic landmark. It stands at the northern entrance of the pathway leading to the Tokyo National Museum. The rhythmic water jets provide a peaceful atmosphere, while surrounding flower beds, including tulips in season, add vibrant color.
4) Life-Size Blue Whale Statue
One of the most iconic sights in Ueno Park is the massive blue whale statue displayed outside the National Museum of Nature and Science. Measuring approximately 30 meters in length, this life-size replica captures the awe-inspiring scale of the largest animal on Earth. You simply can’t miss it—it’s a favorite photo spot for visitors of all ages.
On weekdays, you might spot groups of elementary school children posing for class trip photos in front of the whale, a nostalgic reminder of how deeply the museum is woven into local culture and education. Whether you're a science enthusiast or just looking for a unique Tokyo memory, don’t forget to snap a photo with this incredible landmark.
5) Handprint Monument of the People's Honor Award Recipients
The People's Honor Award (Kokumin Eiyo-sho) was established to recognize individuals or groups who have earned deep respect from the public and brought bright hope to Japanese society through outstanding achievements. As of June 2025, the award has been given to 27 individuals and one organization. In Ueno Park, you can find a monument featuring handprints of these beloved figures—icons in sports, entertainment, and other fields. It offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the values and aspirations that have shaped modern Japanese society.
6) Statue of Prince Komatsu Akihito
Located in Ueno Park, this equestrian statue honors Prince Komatsu Akihito—a distinguished military leader and member of the Imperial Family during the Meiji era. His dignified pose reflects the spirit of a time marked by war and rapid modernization. This historical monument offers visitors a quiet yet powerful glimpse into Japan’s transformative Meiji period.
7) Haifu Yanagidaru
Haifu Yanagidaru was a popular collection of senryu (humorous 17-syllable poems) published during the Edo period. Like haiku, senryu follow the 5-7-5 syllable structure, but they focus more on satire and commentary on everyday life and human nature. On the east side of Keisei Ueno Station, you can find a monument dedicated to Haifu Yanagidaru. It serves as a great example of how public art in Tokyo can offer deep insights into traditional Japanese culture.
8) Hanazono Inari Shrine
Known as a quiet spiritual power spot near Shinobazu Pond, it features vermilion “thousand torii gates” , making it a favorite location for photographers. It is dedicated to the god of abundant harvests, Ukanomitama-no-Mikoto, and is believed to bring blessings such as good relationships, business success, marital harmony, and fertility.
9) Moon Pine (Tsuki no Matsu)
This uniquely trimmed pine tree, located in front of Kiyomizu Kannon-do, offers a picturesque view of Shinobazu Pond. The scene recreates a composition often depicted in Edo-period ukiyo-e prints, giving visitors a feeling of stepping back in time.
10) Ueno Daibutsu (Great Buddha of Ueno)
Built in 1631, this seated statue of Shakyamuni Buddha once stood about 6 meters tall. It was damaged multiple times by earthquakes, fires, and war. Today, only the face remains, preserved on a hill in the park. The “Great Buddha’s Face” is believed to bring good luck to students hoping to pass exams, making it a popular quiet spot for reflection and history lovers.
11) Statue of Saigo Takamori
Erected in 1898, this 3.7-meter-tall bronze statue depicts Saigo Takamori, known as the “last samurai,” accompanied by his beloved dog, Tsun. The statue commemorates his role in peacefully surrendering Edo Castle and leading the new government forces during the Ueno War. It is a symbol of courage and transition in Japanese history.
12) Totem Pole
Totem pole is a sculpted pillar traditionally created by Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest, primarily those living in British Columbia, Canada, and Alaska, USA. The totem pole located here in Ueno Park was created by members of the Ueno Lions Club. It is said that they installed it as a symbol of their wishes for peace and prosperity for the people of Tokyo. Though it may be easy to walk past without noticing, if you take a closer look, you’ll see the majestic carvings up close. Be sure to take your time and appreciate its detail.
13) Kaneiji
Just a 10-minute walk from JR Uguisudani Station, you'll find Kaneiji Temple, a historic Buddhist temple deeply connected to the Tokugawa family—the shoguns who ruled Japan during the Edo period. Originally built to pray for the peace and prosperity of the Tokugawa shogunate, Kaneiji served as the family’s official temple for honoring their ancestors.
In the past, Kaneiji occupied a large area that now includes much of Ueno Park. Landmarks such as Ueno Toshogu Shrine and the Great Buddha of Ueno were once part of the temple grounds. However, after the Meiji Restoration, much of Kaneiji’s land was taken by the government, and the area was transformed into a public park. Today, visitors can still explore the remaining parts of Kaneiji and feel its historical importance in the heart of Tokyo.
14) Ameyoko
Stretching from Ueno Station to Okachimachi Station, Ameya-Yokocho—commonly known as Ameyoko—is one of Tokyo’s liveliest street markets. Packed with energy, this vibrant shopping street offers everything from street food and fresh seafood to cosmetics, snacks, and affordable fashion. The market is especially popular among both locals and international tourists for its unique blend of bargain shopping and flavorful food.
Visitors can enjoy strolling through the crowded lanes, sampling takoyaki, skewers, or dried fruits, while soaking in the lively, old-school Tokyo atmosphere. Whether you're hunting for souvenirs or just in the mood to explore a true local scene, Ameyoko is a must-visit cultural experience in the heart of the city.
Beyond these, Ueno Park and its surrounding area offer many more attractions worth exploring. You can plan your visit ahead or simply stroll around and discover new places spontaneously. Whether you want to refresh your mind surrounded by nature, learn about Japanese history and culture, or just enjoy local food at the nearby Ameyoko Market, Ueno is a perfect destination.
Experience unique moments that can only be found at Ueno Park—one of Tokyo’s most iconic green spaces.
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