10 operas and ballets to watch at the New National Theatre, Tokyo

Kenzo Tange's monumental Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is worth visiting purely to have a good look at its spectacular edifice, but it's also home to a pair of free observatories that have become a popular tourist attraction. For good reason, the TMG's observatories are completely free of charge. Particularly popular at sunset, when clear days afford good views of Mt Fuji, the observatories also serve refreshments. They also stay open quite late (11pm), so you can even pop by after a visit to the opera. 

Perched on the 41st floor of Shinjuku's Park Hyatt, The Peak is the go-to spot for admiring the Nishi-Shinjuku skyscrapers at twilight. And it isn't just the view that's worth sampling: their 'Twilight Time' happy hour (¥4,000 plus tax and service) runs from 5pm to 9pm and features free-flowing cocktails and wine, a canapé buffet and live DJ tunes Wednesday through Saturday. Heading up for just one quick drink is of course also perfectly acceptable.

Tokyo Opera City is home to a contemporary art gallery as well as one of the world’s most stunning concert halls. The gallery hosts special exhibitions roughly four times a year and also a solo exhibition aimed to celebrate emerging artists. Feeling peckish? There are restaurants on the premises where you can have meal after the show.