4 Best Sights in Ikebukuro, Tokyo

Frank Lloyd Wright was popular in Japan. Indeed, Japanese architects both influenced and were influenced by his designs. Fans will enjoy the unmistakable example of his distinctive Prairie style at this off-the-beaten-path school building. When Wright was in Tokyo designing the Imperial Hotel in the 1920s, he was commissioned to build this schoolhouse, which is now open to the public. Its use of local stone keeps it in harmony with its location. It is, however, a bit difficult to find, so your journey to the building will take you through a small neighborhood. The brick street the building occupies is a helpful marker. Call ahead to be sure the site isn't closed to the general public for a private event.

The mill that once stood here was Japan's first to produce Western-style paper, starting in 1875. The museum now occupying the location celebrates paper-making and paper of all kinds, including domestic washi, in permanent and special exhibits covering 2,000 years of history. Some exhibits also illustrate the astonishing variety of products that can be made from paper.

Part of the Sunshine City shopping and entertainment complex, which is housed in what was once Tokyo's tallest building, this aquarium is a good rainy day sight, especially if you have kids in tow. Although it's a bit of a trek from Ikebukuro Station, the way is lined with restaurants, shops, and arcades. There are 750 kinds of sea creatures on display, plus daily special events. English-language pamphlets are available, though most exhibits have some English explanation. Generally, its easy to buy entrance tickets in person, but, on holidays and weekends, you might want to make advance reservations via the website.

Tokyo was once crisscrossed by tram lines, and this is its last surviving one. Also known as the Tokyo Sakura Tram, for its views during the cherry blossom season (sakura means "cherry blossom"), the tram runs for 12 km (7.5 miles) and makes 30 stops. A ride on it is a great way to experience some Tokyo history and see what everyday life in the city is like. You can access the tram from directly under the Yamanote Loop Line's Otsuka Station.