Get back to nature without straying too far from the nearest Starbucks with an outing to Yoyogi Park. This ever-popular spot in central Tokyo occupies the site of Japan's first successful powered aircraft flight, and later the athletes' village during the 1964 Olympics.
The north side is a lush sprawl of trees and greenery where city slickers can take a break from the crush or let their pets roam free at the dog run. The south side has an event plaza and open-air stage that hosts many of Tokyo’s larger festivals, including the annual Earth Day, Thai Festival and Brazil Festival.
The park is open 24 hours, and includes a parking lot. You'll find Meiji-Jingu Shrine, NHK and the National Gymnasium (Kokuritsu Yoyogi Kyogijo) nearby.
Japan’s biggest Cambodia Festival takes place over the Golden Week holidays in Yoyogi Park. This two-day celebration of Cambodian culture features traditional dance performances, plus plenty of local food, drinks and handicrafts at around 70 booths. The festival takes place from 10am to 7pm on both days. Entry is free and you just pay for food and drink as you go.
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