Four popular Tokyo attractions under renovation – the iconic “Kaminarimon Gate” is temporarily out of sight!

▲ The Kaminarimon Gate at Senso-ji Temple is an iconic symbol of Tokyo. (Photo / Credited to reporter Tsai Wen-jun)

Reporter Tsai Wen-jun / Compiled report

Taiwanese travelers love visiting Japan, and Tokyo is one of their top city choices. However, recently four popular attractions have either undergone renovation or are temporarily closed. Travelers heading to Tokyo should pay attention to the opening hours of these sites.

▲ The Kaminarimon Gate at Senso-ji Temple is currently closed for renovation. (Photo / Sourced from Mainichi Shimbun)

1. Senso-ji Temple
Senso-ji Temple, listed as a must-visit spot in Tokyo, is famous for its huge Kaminarimon lantern, a symbolic landmark. However, due to fallen roof tiles above the gate recently — although no one was injured — the temple authorities have decided to temporarily close the entire Kaminarimon Gate for inspection and repairs. Visitors will need to enter via the adjacent road. The temple’s Five-Story Pagoda is also undergoing maintenance after being affected by a recent earthquake, with work expected to continue until the end of June.

▲ The One Piece Tower at Tokyo Tower is also temporarily closed. (Photo / Credited to reporter Hong Sheng-yi)

2. One Piece Tower at Tokyo Tower
The permanent One Piece-themed attraction at Tokyo Tower has recently started partial maintenance and adjustment work on some of its game facilities. As a result, the themed area on floors 3 to 5 will be temporarily closed from now until June 17, and will reopen to the public on June 18.

▲ Meiji Jingu has begun renovating various shrine buildings, with work continuing through 2020. (Photo / Credited to reporter Tsai Wen-jun)

3. Meiji Jingu
In celebration of its centennial in 2020, Meiji Jingu has commenced a series of restoration projects, including its roof and the shrine gates. Each shrine building will undergo maintenance in sequence, with work expected to continue until 2020.

▲ Ghibli Museum in Mitaka Forest will remain closed until mid-July. (Photo / Sourced from travelbook)

4. Ghibli Museum in Mitaka Forest
The Ghibli Museum in Mitaka Forest will be closed for three months starting in May for interior renovations and will reopen on July 16.

According to previously released information, once reopened, the Ghibli Museum will feature a theme titled “Riding the Totoro Bus to the Ghibli Forest,” offering a completely new exhibition that revisits the most popular special exhibits from the past 15 years. There will also be a Totoro Bus available for adults, and the museum interior will be completely refreshed — even repeat visitors will enjoy a fresh, first-time experience.