tour tokyo center

Tokyo (����, Tōkyō) is Japan's capital and the world's most populous metropolis. It is also one of Japan's 47 prefectures , consisting of 23 central city wards and multiple cities, towns and villages west of the city center. The Izu and Ogasawara Islands are also part of Tokyo.

Prior to 1868, Tokyo was known as Edo. Previously a small castle town , Edo became Japan's political center in 1603 when Tokugawa Ieyasu established his feudal government there. A few decades later, Edo had grown into one of the world's largest cities. With the Meiji Restoration of 1868, the emperor and capital moved from Kyoto to Edo, which was renamed Tokyo ("Eastern Capital"). Large parts of Tokyo were destroyed in the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and the air raids of 1945.

Today, Tokyo offers a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping , entertainment, culture and dining to its visitors. The city's history can be appreciated in districts such as Asakusa and in many excellent museums , historic temples and gardens . Contrary to common perception, Tokyo also offers a number of attractive green spaces in the city center and within relatively short train rides at its outskirts.

Top attractions in Tokyo

Tsukiji Outer Market •

Akihabara •

Koishikawa Korakuen •

Hama Rikyu •

Imperial East Gardens •

Imperial Palace •

Ginza •

Nihonbashi •

Yasukuni Shrine

Tokyo Dome City

State Guest House

Tokyo National Museum ••

Tokyo Skytree ••

Asakusa •

Sensoji Temple •

Edo-Tokyo Museum •

Rikugien •

Ueno Park •

Tokyo Solamachi •

Botanical Garden

Sumida Aquarium

Sumida Hokusai Museum

Kappabashi Street

Shibuya ••

Shinjuku ••

Meiji Shrine •

Shinjuku Gyoen •

Harajuku •

Yoyogi Park

Government Building

Nakano Broadway

Yebisu Garden Place

Odaiba •

Institute for Nature •

Toyosu Market •

Roppongi Hills •

Tokyo Tower

Sengakuji Temple

Zojoji Temple

Tokyo Water Bus

Kyu Shiba Rikyu

Tokyo Midtown

Akasaka Sacas

Tokyo DisneySea ••

Tokyo Disneyland ••

Shibamata •

Ghibli Museum •

Mount Mitake •

Takaosan •

Kiyosumi Garden

Edo Open Air Museum

Showa Memorial Park

Todoroki Valley

Kasai Rinkai Koen

Ikspiari Mall

Makuhari Messe

The Making of Harry Potter

Sanja Matsuri •

Kanda Matsuri •

Japan Mobility Show •

Tokyo Game Show

Sanno Matsuri

Tokyo Marathon

Ceatec Japan

Nikko •••

Kamakura ••

Fuji Five Lakes •

Hakone •

Kusatsu Onsen •

Yokohama •

Izu Peninsula •

Ikaho Onsen

Tokyo by interest

Getting there and around

Itinerary ideas.

• Tranquil Meiji Shrine
• Urban exploring in Shibuya
• Shopping in Shinjuku and youth culture in Harajuku

• Ancient Sensoji Temple
• Cruise down the Sumida River
• Shopping in modern Odaiba

• Exploring Shinjuku's busy streets
• Relaxing in Shinjuku Gyoen
• Taking in the skyscraper district

• Exploring Asakusa area

• Serene Imperial East Gardens
• Lively Ginza shopping district

• Old-fashioned post town
• Artsy Tennozu Isle
• Waterfront walk

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Tokyo metropolitan government, hotels around tokyo, tokyo hotel guide.

How to choose the best places to stay in Tokyo

Experiences around Tokyo

17 Unmissable Things to do in Tokyo, Japan

Discover the sprawling metropolis of Tokyo, the capital city of Japan — home to weird and wonderful sights, neon flashing lights, expansive gardens, tavern-filled alleys, and sensory food markets. This exciting city is hard to beat, offering a myriad of unforgettable adventures: peer through glass floors at the top of the city’s tallest skyscraper, wade through water in abstract art museums, devour rainbow-spun candy as you peruse cosplay shops, or enjoy moments of peace at sacred shrines. Experience it all with the top things to do in Tokyo!

Best Things to do in Tokyo

Tokyo is an enormous city, and there’s so much to see that you’ll definitely want to return again. Although busy, it doesn’t have the hectic feel of other Asian capital cities like Bangkok or Beijing.

This is mainly because of the unique Japanese culture, which centers around respect and good manners. In fact, it’s one of the safest cities in the world, meaning you can explore at any hour — although after dark is when the city really comes to life, with thousands of neon flashing lights leading the way to music-pumping restaurants and high-rise bars. 

Tip: Tokyo offers a good mix of city and nature activities, particularly as it has so many amazing green spaces. The city is also a great jumping-off point for day trips into nature, where you can really see the ‘authentic Japan’.

1. Tokyo Skytree

Discover the tallest tower in the world! Yes, the Tokyo Skytree is not only the tallest structure in Japan but also the tallest tower globally, standing at a mammoth height of 634 meters. You can ascend the building to see breathtaking panoramic views of the city. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance!

Begin your trip to the pinnacle via the four different elevators (rocketing to the top at a speed of 50 seconds per section!). The Tembo deck is the first viewpoint you’ll reach at 350 meters with a knee-shaking glass floor, giving you fantastic views of Tokyo from a different perspective. ( Get your tickets here )

At 450 meters, you’ll reach the Tembo Gallery, the Skytree’s highest viewpoint. Here, you’ll find 360-degree panoramic views — an unmissable thing to do in Tokyo!

We recommend visiting just before sunset so you can see the city transition from day to night. After dark is special when bright neon lights illuminate the sidewalks and buildings.

Hotels in Tokyo 😴

Opening Times and Tickets for Tokyo Skytree

It’s best to book your tickets in advance so that you can get them at a slightly cheaper price.

• Advance tickets for both decks (Tembo Deck and Tembo Gallery) cost 2,700 yen (19 USD)
• Tembo Deck (the lower viewpoint) costs 1,800 yen (12 USD).
• Don’t worry if you forget to book tickets in advance; you can buy tickets at a slightly higher price on the same day.
• Please also keep an eye on the weather, as high winds can lead to closure.
• Decks are open from 10 AM to 9 PM (last entry 8.20 PM)

Book your tickets for Tokyo Skytree in advance

Budget tip : On a budget? Head for the free observation deck in the metropolitan building at Shinjuku. 

2. Shinjuku Gyoen

Welcome to Shinjuku Gyoen – a tranquil oasis at the heart of bustling Tokyo, once only reserved for royalty. Escape the bright lights and crowds and enter a natural garden of 144 acres full of trees, traditional Japanese gardens, flowers, and unique plants.

Situated right in the middle of the city, Shinjuku Gyoen is often compared to New York’s Central Park, providing an escape for Tokyo residents throughout different seasons of the year. See 900+ trees burst into color during the cherry blossom season and majestic oranges, yellows, and reds in the fall. 

Here are all your hotel options in Tokyo.

Don’t miss the incredible greenhouse, which feels like an indoor jungle, like a small Cloud Forest in Singapore . It’s home to many tropical plants, some of which are rare and close to extinction. 

There are plenty of cafes and tea rooms throughout the park for refreshments. However, Starbucks deserves a special mention as it’s entirely made of windows and has a fantastic view of the park. 

Opening Times and Entry Fee: 500 yen (4 USD). Opening times are 9 AM – 5.30 PM (earlier in the winter season) and closed on Mondays. You can buy tickets on the day at the entrance or buy in advance here .

3. Teamlab Planets

One of the best things to do in Tokyo is to experience the magic of Teamlab Planets : a sensory museum experience with large-scale art spaces. Move through a series of rooms, each home to a unique experience, from giant glowing orbs and lights to water spaces filled with flowers and mirrors. ( reserve your tickets in advance here )

As you move through the abstract art experience, you’ll be accompanied by classical music. This, combined with the 3D visuals, makes for an awe-inspiring yet tranquil experience. 

What to Wear to Teamlab Planets

Each room in Teamlab Planets offers a different sensory experience. The most important things to note are:

• You walk through the rooms barefoot. In two rooms, you’ll walk through water, one up to your ankles and the other up to your knees. For this reason, we recommend wearing loose trousers that you can roll up above your knees.
• You can also rent shorts at the start if you prefer. 

• We don’t recommend wearing a skirt to Teamlab Planets due to the many floor mirrors (for obvious reasons!). 
• The rooms can get warm, so leave your sweater in the lockers at the beginning.
• You can take your phone or camera with you. However, because of the water, do so at your own risk.

Tickets for Teamlab Planets, Tokyo

This is one of the most popular experiences in Tokyo, and tickets get booked quickly, so we recommend booking ahead to avoid disappointment. Additionally, tickets are only released a couple of months in advance. Best is to choose one of the earliest time slots.

The ticket price is 3,800 yen (27 USD), and you can reserve your tickets in advance online .

4. Sensō-ji

Sensō-ji is one of the most sacred sites in the world and the most visited temple in Japan! The traditional red temple, home to a stunning 5-story pagoda, is particularly important to the Japanese and Tokyo residents. It is also the location of many important festivals throughout the year. 

Legend has it that two brothers found a Kannon statue in the river, and when they let it go, it kept returning to them. The area’s chief at the time recognized this phenomenon and wanted to house the statue in his home. He even remodelled it to become a place of worship — which is now Sensō-ji. 

Visiting Sensō-ji

As you enter the main gates, you’re greeted by gigantic red pillars and Japanese lanterns, making for a great photo. There are also many food and souvenir stalls if you want to take something away to commemorate your visit.

Once inside, you’ll see the main temple, which you can enter. However, if you’re not religious, the interior itself is not as attractive as the external grounds, although it is special to see people praying.

Please note that the pagoda interior is fenced off, and you cannot take photos.

Entry and Opening Times: Admission is free. The main hall is open from 6.30 AM to 5 PM every day from October to March. In the summer, opening hours are extended to 5.30 PM. 

Tip: The temple is lit up at night from sunset until 11 PM, and the temple grounds are always open, making it a lovely spot to hang out in the evening. Alternatively, the Tokyo Skytree overlooks the site, offering a great view of the illuminated temple.

5. Kōkyo Castle / Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace of Tokyo is an icon of the city — a fortified castle that sits high up on a stone embankment surrounded by a moat. The imperial family live here, giving it extraordinary importance in Japan. 

Although the palace itself is not open to the public in general, it’s surrounded by a vast park, so there’s plenty to explore. There is the option to apply to join a free guided tour of the palace grounds to learn more about its interesting history (10 AM and 1.30 PM daily). Otherwise, simply wander among the beautiful Japanese gardens, cross the pretty stone bridges, or relax in the grassy park. 

Note: The palace is not open to the public as it’s still the official residence of the imperial family. However, on important days of the year, the public can enter the external sections to wave at important family members who greet visitors from the balcony.

Chidorigafuchi Park

On the other side of the moat, on the west side, you will find another small park called Chidorigafuchi Park. This relatively undiscovered spot is home to some of the best cherry blossom viewpoints in the city.

Rent a rowboat (open from March to November) and explore the waters surrounding the palace. This is particularly impressive in Spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

6. Shibuya Crossing

Think of Tokyo, and the incredible setting of Shibuya Crossing immediately jumps to mind. This is the busiest crossing in Japan, if not in the world, where surrounding skyscrapers, huge glowing advertisements, and flashing traffic lights bathe pedestrians in a neon glow as they cross the intersection.

Prepare for all your senses to be sparked as you move among the many people, with music coming from all directions (shopping malls, advertisements, and music).

Although this area is one of the busiest in the city, in true Japanese fashion, it’s still exceptionally organized and respectful, with traffic lights and the politeness of Japanese people (you won’t experience any beeping here!). 

Tip: Want to see Shibuya crossing from above? Head for Shibuya Sky (reserve far in advance), an observation deck that costs 2,200 yen (15 USD) to enter. Another option is MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 , a good viewpoint on the top of a shopping mall. Tickets cost 1,500 yen (10 USD), including a drink.

7. Shinjuku

Exploring the liveliest neighborhood in the city is one of the top things to do in Tokyo! Shinjuku offers the real Tokyo experience: streets full of neon flashing lights, shiny 3D advertising, such as the iconic 3D cat, and small alleyways filled with tiny bars. 

Also read: Best Things To Do in Osaka, Japan .

Head for Kabukicho, the famous entertainment district that never sleeps, where you’ll find the brightest lights in the city and Japan’s renowned karaoke bars. For this reason, we recommend visiting Shinjuku at night, when you’ll be able to make the most of the themed restaurants (like Alice in Wonderland), nightclubs, and quaint drinking holes. 

Tip: If you’re looking for something more upmarket, Shinjuku also has plenty of luxury bars, including the Park Hyatt Hotel . This hotel is famous for its incredible city view, especially at sunset. It was also the setting for some of the scenes in the Hollywood movie ‘Lost in Translation’ with Bill Murray and Scarlett Johanson. 

The Godzilla Head

Fans of Godzilla, or just those who want to see something truly out of the ordinary, should look out for the Godzilla head. This life-size scale model of the fictional character looks like he’s attacking a colossal building — just like in the movies!  Here is the exact location .

Tip: Want an incredible view of Shinjuku for free? Take the elevator to the top of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, where the viewing deck is free to visitors. It’s a budget alternative to the Sky Tree, and you can still see Mount Fuji on a clear day!

The unique area of Golden Gai in Shinjuku is an absolute must-see in Tokyo! This authentic area comprises narrow streets and many cozy taverns, some hidden away, making exploring fascinating. It’s entertaining to visit at night when it comes to life with locals and tourists. Grab the location from our Japan map or see the location . 

Tip: Golden Gai is the best place to make friends since all the bars are so tiny. Most only fit 10-15 people, so you’ll have to sit very close to each other. Order a soju and simply drink in the typically Japanese atmosphere.

Omoide Yokocho

Explore another vibrant and traditional area in Shinjuku: Omoide Yokocho! The small timeworn buildings are home to various BBQ joints — billowing out smoke — that starkly contrast with the towering nearby skyscrapers.

Did you know? Omoide Yokocho translates as ‘memory lane’ because it gives everyone who visits a nostalgic feeling.

8. Shimokitazawa

What better way to spend an afternoon than vintage shopping in the trendiest district of Tokyo: Shimokitazawa! This spiderweb of streets is made up of thrift stores, record shops, street art, and plenty of aesthetic cafes — frequented by all the most stylish people of the city, each hunting through the shops to find their vintage treasures. 

In true Japanese style, vintage shopping in Tokyo is exceptionally well organized, with various styles and sizes. However, as thrift shopping has become a ‘culture’ of its own in Japan, its popularity is reflected in the prices. Because of this, it’s not easy to source ‘cheap finds,’ but all the pieces are so beautiful it’s worth the price tag! 

Some of our favorite shops:

• Little Trip to Heaven
• New York Joe

9. Trip to Fuji

No trip to Tokyo would be complete without a visit to Mount Fuji , and the good news is that it’s easily accessible on a day trip! The incredible area around Mount Fuji is home to five beautiful lakes, which you can visit for stunning views of the active volcano.

See our travel guide to Best Things to do at Mount Fuji .

The natural beauty here is exceptional, and in each season, you’ll find something different to look at, whether it’s the reds of the fall forests, the cherry blossom hues in Spring, or the snow-capped peak of the volcano in winter. Mount Fuji is truly our favorite part of Japan! 

See tickets and availability for a tour to Fuji from Tokyo

Tip: Mount Fuji is doable on a day trip from Tokyo (a 2.5-hour drive). However, if you have more time, we recommend doing a multi-day trip to enjoy all the fantastic things to do in the Fuji region. There are stunning waterfalls to explore and multiple beautiful shrines that bask in the shadow of the volcano.

We recommend to rent a car in Japan through Rentalcars.com with many rental locations and flexible cancellation. Book your rental car here .

10. See the Snow Monkeys

Seeing snow monkeys in their natural habitat is a bucket list experience and, without a doubt, one of the best things to do on your trip to Tokyo! Just a 3-hour drive away is the city of Nagano, which is a jumping-off point to see these remarkable animals.

More about: Snow Monkeys Park and its Hot Springs

Frolicking in the woodland, discover the cheeky red-faced creatures who come into their element in the winter when the snowy conditions motivate them to kick back and relax in the nearby hot springs.

Tickets for the natural park are 800 yen (6 USD) which you can purchase at the entrance. See opening times and ticket prices here .

There are other onsens (springs) in Yudanaka town that are accessible to humans. You’ll find plenty of them on your trip to this area, so do as the locals do and wear the traditional Yukata robe and Geta sandals as you make your way to the bathhouses. 

Please note that you are prohibited from entering Onsens if you have tattoos, this is due to the long-running stigma of tattoos in Japan.

Tip: Visiting in winter? The area where the snow monkeys live (Jigokudani Valley) is in the mountains, where you’ll find fantastic snow conditions and some of Japan’s best ski resorts.

Join this day tour to see the snow monkeys, which leaves from Tokyo and includes entrance and return transportation.

11. Trip to Kamakura

A world away from the bright neon lights of Tokyo, but just 1.5 hours by car, is the charming fishing village of Kamakura. Quite unexpectedly, this Japanese seaside town is a favorite for surfers and city slickers who come here for their beach holidays. 

Enjoy some downtime here — explore the hiking trails, take in the views of the sea (with Mount Fuji visible inland), and swim during the summer months. The town is also home to some fantastic ancient architecture and beautiful temples and shrines, making it exceptionally peaceful. 

Tip: Started your trip from Tokyo early? Get your breakfast + coffee at the Delifrance bakery at the train station in Kamakura. From here, you can take the bus or the train to other spots in the city.

Get a Japan Rail Pass to use throughout your trip!

12. See a Sumo Game

Seeing Japan’s national sport take place in real-time is one of the top things to do in Tokyo! The country is famous worldwide for the unusual and ancient sport of Sumo wrestling (Basho), which has been practiced in Japan for thousands of years. During the game, each athlete attempts to push the other out of the circular ring while wearing the traditional loincloth called a mawashi. 

Buy your tickets for a Sumo wrestling tournament here

Buy tickets for one of the arenas in Tokyo and watch this epic game unfold! We recommend joining a tour that includes tickets, reserved seating, and a guide who can explain more about the game’s history and how it works.

For something a little different, join a tour to see the morning practice. Watch the wrestlers’ rigorous training routine and snap a photo or two with your favorites!

Join this popular tour to see the Sumo morning practice

13. Go Kart through Tokyo

Experience one of the most popular things to do in Tokyo: an exhilarating Go Kart ride through the city ! Ditch the typical tour bus and get behind the wheel of this adrenaline-pumping car, making your way down the fast-paced roads of Tokyo. A guide will lead you and tell you all about the most iconic sights as you go.

To make this experience even more memorable, you can pick from various fun costumes to brighten the day — and create incredible photos for your trip. 

See availability for a Go Kart tour through Tokyo!

14. Koishikawa Korakuen

Located in the district of Koishikawa, discover the botanical gardens of Koishikawa Korakuen, which is also thought to be the oldest Japanese garden in Tokyo! Traditional Japanese gardens throughout the country are designed with ponds, stones, and bridges to mimic the natural beauty of the landscapes, and Koishikawa Korakuen is no different. 

Opening Times and Entrance Fee: 9 AM – 5 PM. Entrance 300 yen (2 USD)

The maple and cherry trees in this botanical garden burst into different colors according to the season. We visited in the fall when we had a vibrant mixture of reds, oranges, and yellows. The trees also attract some incredible bird species, making the botanical gardens popular for bird watchers. You might even have the chance to spot the graceful Kingfisher.

15. Takeshita Street in Harajuku

At the heart of the Harajuku district, you’ll find the most colorful and busy street in Tokyo! Takeshita Street is weird and wonderful, with various stores selling bright, eccentric clothing — everything from anime costumes to platform heels and velvet bows. It’s overwhelming but brilliant all at the same time, with loud music, strange candy vendors, crepes, and fluorescently colored shopfronts. 

Although Takeshita Street is the most famous in the area, we recommend crossing the street and wandering around the rest of Harajuku. It’s much more chilled, home to contemporary art galleries, vintage stores, collectible sneakers, and luxury brands — a complete mix!

16. Meiji Shrine

After the hustle and bustle of Harajuku, visit the neighboring peaceful oasis of Meiji. This stunning Shinto shrine is set in the middle of Tokyo in a tranquil forest of over 100,000 trees. 

The park’s entrance is close to Harajuku station. First, pass through the Torii Gate (traditional gates that mark where the ordinary world ends and the sacred world starts) and then enjoy a relaxing 15-minute stroll through the parkland to reach the Meiji Shrine.

Once there, you’ll see people cleaning, performing religious tasks, and praying to the gods. You can also write out your wishes for the gods on the wooden tablets (Ema) placed near the shrine — a beautiful and spiritual moment during your time in Tokyo. 

Note: Because the shrine is sacred, photos are prohibited at the main Meiji Jingu.

If you want some refreshments, we recommend visiting a small garden inside the park, where you’ll find an old tea house that you can enter for the price of 500 yen (3.50 USD)

Opening Times and Entrance Fee : The shrine is open from sunrise to sunset with no entrance fee. If you wish to visit the museum, tickets cost 1000 yen (7 USD).

One of the best things to do in Tokyo, the Hie shrine is definitely worth a stop on your city trip. If you’ve already visited Kyoto , you’ll notice it looks similar to the famous red shrine of Fushimi Inari Taisha. 

Also read: Things to do in Kyoto, Japan

This sacred spot sits on a hilltop in the city, with a gigantic cherry tree at the entrance, which makes the shrine look extra special in spring. Although the shrine is lovely, the most beautiful element of the whole site is at the back entrance. Here, you’ll find 90 exquisite red torii gates, each painted with Japanese characters, that form a long tunnel.

Opening times: 6 AM to 5 PM. Free entrance.

17. Tsukiji Outer Market

Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of Tsukiji Outer Market – Tokyo’s famous fish market! Sprawling over a few blocks, the fish market is enormous, filled with hundreds of stalls, all selling different kinds of seafood, complete with bright signs and price markers. It’s a great spot to see what local life is like as you watch restaurants and locals buying their fish for dinner.

Tip: The busiest streets are Tsukiji Nishi-dōri and Tsukiji Naka-dōri, so head there for the liveliest experience.

We recommend trying some of Japan’s delicacies: fresh, thinly sliced sashimi, oysters, sushi rolls, or BBQ-ed fish. The best way to do so is to join a food tour, as the tour guide will recommend the best stalls to visit and also give you some fun facts about the market.

See availability for a tour of Tsukiji Outer Market

Top Tips for Visiting Tsukiji Outer Market 

• Opening times 9 AM – 2 PM (closed on Sundays and Wednesdays)
• Arrive before 10 AM (afterwards, it gets crowded)
• Prepare yourself for the strong fish smell – it’s not for the faint of heart! 
• Wear closed-toes shoes as the floor is wet. Avoid wearing sandals or high heels.
• Some stalls don’t accept credit cards, so take cash just in case.

Best Restaurants & Cafes in Tokyo

Tokyo has to be one of the best places to eat in the world! You can look forward to dining on all the Japanese favorites like Sushi, Ramen, and Soba noodles, whether you purchase from market vendors or dine at high-end fusion restaurants.

In reality, every kind of food you can imagine is sourceable in Tokyo; you’ll also find plenty of Italian and French restaurants and plentiful bakeries serving freshly baked pastries – most delicious when eaten warm first thing in the morning. Some of our favorites are:

• Bricolage Bread & Co
• Sushi Ishii
• Citron Aoyama
• Fuglen Asakusa
• Palermo Akasaka
• Falafel Brothers
• & sandwich.
• Afuri Ramen

Top Tip: It’s no secret that Tokyo is expensive, so if you’d like to have a quick snack or an affordable takeaway lunch, we recommend going to the supermarkets 7-Eleven, Family Mart, or Lawson. You can find delicious Onigiri (a rice ball with fish inside and packed in crunchy seaweed) or even mix a cup of frozen fruits into a smoothie.

Make sure to bring your reusable water bottle with you; you can drink water from the taps in most places in Japan! This is a good way to save money and travel plastic-free .

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Tokyo is a massive city with neighborhoods to suit every kind of traveler. Even if you choose to stay further out, the fantastic metro system makes it easy to travel between districts. 

We stayed in the neighborhood of Akasaka , which is close to many of the top things to do in Tokyo and has great restaurants and cafes. It also has excellent train connections, yet it is still away from the main crowds.

Hotels near Shinjuku station are also a good option (particularly good for nightlife and restaurants). The same is true for the area surrounding Tokyo Station , which provides the most connections to the rest of the city.

• Hotels near Shinjuku Station
• Hotels at Tokyo Station
• Hotels at Akasaka

How Many Days in Tokyo?

There are so many incredible things to do in Tokyo that we recommend spending at least two days exploring. Three to four days would be perfect (this excludes day trips), allowing you to visit all the main sites and leave plenty of time for dining, nightlife, and museums. 

Tokyo is an excellent jumping-off point for day trips in Japan, primarily because of the superfast bullet trains that can take you out of the city in a matter of minutes. 

How to Visit Tokyo

Tokyo has two international airports that serve the city, Haneda and Narita. Narita is further away (60 KM east of the city), so we recommend flying into Haneda for ease.

From here, it’s just a 30-minute train into the city center, or you can arrange a private transfer if you have a lot of luggage.

Book your airport transfer in advance

There is a lack of elevators and escalators in Tokyo’s metro stations, making it more challenging to maneuver your suitcase when traveling into the city. Because of this, luggage transfer services are very common. For example, Yamato Transport can arrange to bring your luggage from the airport to your hotel and vice versa.

Tip: It’s best to get an eSim in advance so you’re directly connected when you land in Japan. Buy your sim online here .

Getting Around

Getting around Tokyo is super easy; the organized Japanese public transport system makes traveling a dream! Metros and trains reach every corner of the city, and best of all, they’re super affordable. 

Note: Because the travel network in Tokyo is so organized, you’ll never experience delays; trains and metros depart precisely at the minute specified.

Walking around the city is highly recommended. It’s the best way to take in the vibe of Tokyo, and there’s something out of the ordinary to see on every street corner. When you get tired, you can download a taxi app (Uber and GoTaxi are the best, with GoTaxi being the cheaper option).

Is the JR Pass worth it? ( Calculate it here ) The Japan Rail Pass gives you unlimited access to all public transport throughout Japan, so it’s a great option if you plan on taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) several times. It’s also multi-use for other trains, ferries, and buses throughout the country. 

Buy your Japan Rail Pass in advance

How Much Does Tokyo Cost?

Like most of Japan, Tokyo upholds its reputation as one of the most expensive cities in the world. However, we were pleasantly surprised that entrance tickets, food and public transport cost much less than anticipated. The higher costs were for accommodation, which is more expensive than anywhere else in the country. Because of this, we recommend booking well in advance to try and score the cheapest deal. 

Tip: Capsule hotels are very popular in Tokyo, offering a budget alternative to the traditional hotel experience. 

Costs of Traveling in Tokyo

Travel on a budget in Tokyo, from $480 − $950 USD weekly per person, mid-range $2100 − $4230 USD, and high-end from $3880 − $6030 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $150 − $500 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $85 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $50 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $35 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $30 − $150 USD
• Activities: $10 − $50 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $5 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit Tokyo

With so many things to do in Tokyo, you can visit at any time of the year and be spoilt for choice. However, the most beautiful season is Spring when the cherry blossoms are out, covering the city in pink flowers. Bear in mind that this is also the most popular time to visit, raising prices and demand for accommodation. 

Note: Although many sights in Tokyo can get busy, it’s rarely hectic as a result of the fantastic organization and good manners of the Japanese people.

Fall is an excellent alternative. It’s still busy, but it’s a little less expensive than Spring. You’ll still get to see the maple trees burst into the typical fall colors, which creates a fiery backdrop to Tokyo’s towering skyscrapers and neon lights.

Tip: In both seasons, fall and spring, you’ll need to book ahead for tours, tickets, and accommodations to avoid disappointment.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Rentalcars.com
• Find Flights to Tokyo via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

14 Unmissable Things to do in Kyoto, Japan

9 things to do in nara park (the deer of japan), 15 memorable things to do in osaka, japan.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  Notify me when new comments are added.

Tokyo Tours

Most frequently asked questions.

•  Do you provide Tokyo private family tour? We provide private tours in Tokyo. Because English tours guide in Japan are costly, you can consider a private transfer service with driver, as alternative to joining an all-inclusive group tour (with tour guide + transportation). You can also consider joining a guide foot tour, in which you will use public transportation between attractions. If the attractions are close by, walking tour is a great option as well.
•  For the 6 days Best of Japan join in tour, is airport transfer included on the first day upon arriva The first night of our join in group tour will be at Narita Hilton Hotel, and the hotel provides free shuttle service. Our tour guide will assist you to take the shuttle to the hotel upon arrival.
•  What do you recommend for night tour in Tokyo? There are many different night tours in Tokyo, covering a large range of attractions such as city night view, shopping districts, Kabukicho in Shinjuku, shows, and bars.
•  Do you offer join in bus tour in Tokyo? We currently don't have seat in coach tour. If we have available seat on the tour, we welcome tourists to join our day tour in Tokyo. Tourists will meet the group at the first attraction and arrange transportation back to hotel at the end of the day.
•  How much does it cost to book a private transfer for a day in Tokyo? We offer different cars to meet your need. The cost depends on the type of car requested. We currently have luxury sedan, 7-seat Alphard Van, 10- and 14- seat Hiace Van, and 20 –seat coaster mini- bus.
•  Is one day enough for a trip to Kamakura from Tokyo? If you depart early, schedule only a few attractions, and staying for a short period at each stop, you will make a tour to Kamakura in a day. However, we recommend following any suggestion by the tour guide.
•  How much does it cost to have a French speaking tour guide in Tokyo for a day? French-speaking tour guides are very limited in Tokyo, especially during cherry blossom season. The price differs depending on the season. Please contact our representative in Tokyo in advance for your Tokyo vacation.
•  Is there any dressing etiquette in the Tokyo tourist attractions? There is no specific dressing requirement in Tokyo. You may refer to the trip tips on our website for how to behave in Tokyo. We hope the information is helpful for your Tokyo trip.
•  Can I submit a payment in person at your Tokyo office? We welcome visitors at the office. When you book a tour, please submit the deposit, and balance will be due later. The address and contact number of our Tokyo tour operator can be found online by Google.
•  Can you help to create a 5-day Itinerary in Tokyo? Yes, please inform your agent regarding any thoughts and requirements. We will create a tailor-made itinerary at lowest possible price.
• Rosalind Wong  Travel Date：April. 15th 2024 Travel Route: 7 days to travel out of Tokyo to the north of Honshu I booked Japan Holiday for a car and driver for 7 days to travel out of Tokyo to the north of Honshu. Our group of 8 fitted into the 9- seater comfortably with luggage in April 2024. I planned the itinerary with their rep Lydia, who was always prompt and helpful with her replies and suggestions. She was quick to respond to queries which made the overall planning and booking process easier. The guide and driver Snake-San was wonderful, on time and accommodating. Everything was done professionally and we had a wonderful time. The price of the private tour was very reasonable as well. We were very happy with the service. I would recommend this company.
• Anthony Lobo  Travel Date：Feb. 19th 2024 Travel Route: Narita Airport Private Transfer Service We used the driving service for our first trip to Japan, and it could not have gone smoother. It was easy to find and meet our driver when we arrived at the airport and when we were picked up to head back to the airport. I would definitely recommend this service for any first timers. Honestly, it took the stress out of traveling to and from the airport and easily accommodated my family of 5. Communication was easy and everyone was extremely helpful/friendly. If you are concerned about using the subway system for the first time, I’d use this driving service to ease your mind.  
• Glen Saro  Travel Date：Feb. 8th 2024 Travel Route: Hakuba Bus Tour from Tokyo Japan Holiday Transport and Chauffeur. We booked several transfers within Japan, Firstly, from the Airport to our accommodation in Tokyo and then to and from Hakuba. Their buses and bus drivers were always on time and comfortable for our party of 13 people + luggage. Great experience. Driver was very safe and polite. He was professional and able to guide/explain about Hakuba. It was snowy and Safety is the upmost important. Lydia from their office was always polite and she also responded within 24 hours. Trustworthy company with local knowledge.
• Lydia Cheam  Travel Date：January 25th 2024 Travel Route: Hakone Day Tour My family and I took an 8/9 hours transportation/tour of Hakone with Japan Holiday, and they were amazing! Our driver was very gentle, helpful and thoughtful :) we were traveling with an infant and elderly parents, and he would inform us if the weather seemed colder and that he would wait nearby if we wanted to run back into the car quickly, or he would head over to the restaurants/tea house to check if they were open before letting us out. Really appreciated it! Also, James was very responsive and helpful when coordinating our travels prior to the trip. Thanks so much and would definitely book again when we need a tour/transport!  
• Sandeep Khosla  Travel Date：November 26th 2023 Travel Route: Osaka-Hakuba-Kyoto-Tokyo Please convey our gratitude to the company that employs him. And thank you for making wonderful arrangements for us. We have already told many of our friends and relatives about your company and excellent service.   We were reasonably satisfied with the return trip. I used this service for a business day trip meeting from Tokyo to Hakone. prompt service!  on time!  and thanks to them I had a good meeting and got back to Tokyo in time for business dinner meeting. thank you!   We are in awe of Japanese culture and hospitality. We will surely be returning for another trip.   Many thanks again  

Let’s Enjoy Tokyo Tours with A Knowledgeable Guide! 

Discover the wonders of Tokyo with Japan Wonder Travel's guided tours! Our expert guides will take you to the most important destinations, introduce you to delicious local cuisine, teach you about Japanese traditions and culture, and show you the vibrant nightlife. With so many attractions to choose from, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary, so let our knowledgeable guides lead the way and uncover hidden gems you may have otherwise missed. Join us for an unforgettable Tokyo experience and make the best memories!

Table of contents

• Tsukiji Fish Market Tour
• Tokyo Highlights: 1-Day Private Walking Tour (Customizable, 8-Hour)
• Shinjuku Bar Hopping Tour: Experience Tokyo's Nightlife in Izakaya
• Tsukiji Fish Market Tour & Learn How to Make Sushi
• Sushi Making Workshop at Tsukiji
• Tokyo Food and Drink Tour at Tsukiji and Asakusa
• Toyosu Wholesale Market Explore and Sushi Making Workshop

Personalized Tours

Tours ready to go.

• Sumo Stable Tour to Watch the Sumo Morning Practice
• Sumo Tournament Tour (Odd-Numbered Months)
• Sumo School Tour
• Akihabara Anime Tour
• 3-hour Tokyo E-bike Tour
• Mt. Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo Bus Tour
• Fukushima Exclusion Zone Day Tour from Tokyo
• Kamakura Private Walking Tour
• Nikko 1-Day Private Walking Tour

Best Tours in Tokyo

Discover the top tours in Tokyo with Japan Wonder Travel to make your trip an unforgettable experience.

🌟 Tsukiji Fish Market Tour

If you're looking for a truly authentic food and drink experience in Tokyo, look no further than the Tsukiji Fish Market Tour! Navigating this bustling market can be difficult, but it's much easier when you're with someone who knows it like the back of their hand. Check out and try a variety of street food, see unique shops, and even visit a wholesale area. Afterward, we'll take you to a local sushi restaurant for some of the freshest and most mouth-watering sushi. You'll learn impressive info and have a great time!

🌟 Tokyo Highlights: 1-Day Private Walking Tour (Customizable, 8-Hour)

On this guided Tokyo private walking tour, you will hit all the must-see highlights of the city in just one day. This tour is fully customizable and can be tailored to meet all your needs and requests. Questions or concerns will never go unaddressed with our knowledgeable guides there every step of the way.

Tokyo Food and Drink Tours

On our Tokyo Food and Drink Tours, you'll have the chance to indulge in a variety of local delicacies while your guide shares their knowledge about the area. From vibrant street foods to classic favorites, this tour offers a warm, interactive, and, most importantly, tasty experience with kind shop owners and new friends. With the guidance of a knowledgeable local, there's no doubt you'll walk away with some impactful memories and new cravings.

🍻 Shinjuku Bar Hopping Tour: Experience Tokyo's Nightlife in Izakaya

Shinjuku is one of Tokyo's main downtown districts. There is always something going on, especially after the sunset. Why not jump in and find out what it's all about? Find out firsthand what fun there is to be had at traditional pubs and interesting bars. Learn from a local perspective and embrace the flow of the city.

🍣 Tsukiji Fish Market Tour & Learn how to Make Sushi

Tsukiji is a world-famous fish market, and sushi is a world-famous fish delicacy. Time to learn from a knowledgeable local as your guide what makes them world-famous. Between the history of sushi, how to make it, and the incredible taste, you'll have nothing but immense respect (and cravings) for this incredible dish. The market is an incredible, bustling hub of trade that will make it clear that the hype is real and never going away.

🍣Sushi Making Workshop at Tsukiji

If you prefer to experience a sushi workshop only without a walking tour at Tsukiji Fish Market, we also offer a sushi-making workshop! You can learn how to make sushi from a professional chef!

🐟 Tokyo Food and Drink Tour at Tsukiji and Asakusa

Marvel at the magnificent Tsukiji fish market, sometimes referred to as "The Kitchen of Tokyo" and enjoy some of the freshest, most mouthwatering seafood you could imagine. If you've still got room left for more, enjoy some sweets at a cafe in Asakusa, another one of Tokyo's most iconic areas filled with history, shopping, and authenticity. Learn about all this and more with friendly guidance from a local!

🍣 Toyosu Wholesale Market Explore and Sushi Making Workshop

You may have heard of Tsukiji, but have you heard of Toyosu? Until recently, Tsukiji was the main market for, most famously, tuna auctions until recently when it became Toyosu! On this tour guided by a knowledgeable local, you'll have the incredible opportunity to check out state-of-the-art facilities for the enormous seafood trade, as well as learn hands-on from a professional how to make the best seafood in the world: sushi!

Tokyo Private Highlights Tours

For those of you who have a decent idea of the spots they want to see, or simply want a cushy tour just for them, then let us construct the perfect tour for you! let us know what you want and we will get it organized and planned out for you, no problem! A fun, friendly, helpful guide will be there every step of the way to answer questions, help you navigate, and most importantly, ensure you'll have lasting memories.

These tours are ready to go, no need to do anything other than apply and enjoy! We have a great selection of fun and interesting activities and experiences, there's no doubt that there will be one perfect for you or your group.

Tokyo Sumo Tours

January, May, and September are the best months to be in Tokyo if you're a fan of sumo, as this is when the grand tournament is held! Without a doubt, we offer only the best-guided experiences to get you a variety of exclusive seats and expert knowledge. If you want to get up close and personal, then we've got you covered there too! Whether it's watching professional wrestlers train or learning hands on, you'll get the most memorable sumo experience of your life.

Here's the list of our sumo tours in Tokyo

Visit a Sumo Stable to See their Daily Practice

Watch the Sumo Tournament

Visit a Sumo School where New Wrestlers Learn

Click here to see all the sumo tours we offer in Tokyo!

Tokyo Anime & Pop Culture Tours

Akihabara anime tour: explore tokyo's otaku culture.

Akihabara is the place to be if you have any interest in Manga, Anime, video games, or electronics. This district is optimized for all things pop culture- dive into Japan's immense world of entertainment head-first into the "Electric Town" and visit a few of the most iconic shops and spots. Whether it's shopping for incredible tech and gadgets or burying yourself in your favorite franchise's merch, your knowledgeable guide will get you situated.

3-hour Tokyo E-bike Tour(Tsukiji, Imperial palace, Akihabara, Asakusa, Ningyo-cho)

Explore Tokyo's popular spots by an e-bike with a guide! Your guide will show you some must-visit spots in Tokyo and take memorable pictures for you. Sightseeing in Tokyo by bike makes the experience more special and can't get the same from just taking a train- you don't even have to worry about being caught in the rush hour!

Tokyo Day Trip Tours

Looking to explore beyond Tokyo? There are plenty of incredible spots that are just a train or bus ride away. From natural wonders to historical landmarks, there's no shortage of fascinating places to visit. Consider taking a day tour from Tokyo, like a bus tour to the iconic Mt. Fuji, or go on an educational Fukushima Exclusion Zone tour to make the most of your trip!

Why You Should Join Our Tokyo Tours

Exploring Tokyo is more daunting of an adventure than you might imagine! While the city itself is well prepared to accommodate foreign guests, that doesn't mean every spot, every location, and certainly every person you might meet maintains the same level of English. And, it's important to note that it's hard to access any places that might be off the tourist path without someone to interpret, let alone understand the meaning and importance of your surroundings. You'll without a doubt be able to add value to every destination, meal, or other experience. By having guidance, interpretation, and a genuine helpful attitude from a local, we are sure that you'll be left with lasting memories of in-depth experiences here in Tokyo.

We at Japan Wonder Travel are a team of passionate, seasoned travelers who love to explore and help guests discover meaningful experiences. With our expertise combined with our excitement, it's easy to assure your Tokyo adventure will be nothing short of remarkable.

See tours in Kyoto

Discover Tokyo Tours & Shightseeing in Japan

Mt. Fuji 2-Day Climbing Adventure

Traditional Yakatabune Dinner Cruise on Tokyo Bay

Tokyo morning tour

Sumo Experience & Chanko Nabe Lunch

Mt. Fuji & Hakone Day Tour from Tokyo

Nikko World Heritage 1 Day Tour

Discover Tokyo Tours

Tokyo, the capital city, is the gateway to Japan. A travel to Japan begins in Tokyo. Where the world's most advanced technology and traditional Japanese culture intersect, Tokyo is full of wonderful attractions that will thrill us no matter how many times we visit, with new discoveries to be found in every place we walk. With many world-famous tourist spots such as Shinjuku, Harajuku, Ginza, Akihabara, and Asakusa scattered throughout the city, you can join a Tokyo sightseeing tour for an efficient tour of the city's highlights. Discover your own personal Japan travel by going on a short one-day tour from Tokyo to visit beautiful and spectacular places such as Mt.Fuji, Kamakura, Nikko and more, all of which are colored by the changing seasons.

Tokyo Seasonal Tour

Tokyo Shightseeing Tour

Culture Experience Tour

Short Trip From Tokyo

Discover Asakusa

Discover Harajuku

Recommended tokyo tour.

Mt. Fuji, Oishi Park & Seasonal Fruits Picking

• You will be taken to the fruit-picking grounds..
• You will have about half an hour to pick and enjoy as much fruit as you like!
• Ride on the Fujisan Panorama Ropeway to admire Mt. Fuji from the lookout of Mt. Kachikachi!

Standard Plan

• From 10,980JPY

Japanese Traditional Yakatabune Dinner Cruise on Tokyo Bay

Enjoy beautiful views of Tokyo Bay, Rainbow Bridge and other Tokyo landmarks, dining on a tempura and Japanese cuisine!

• From 12,000 JPY

Alpine Route, Kurobe Gorge Railway & Unazuki Onsen 2-Day Tour

Embark on a thrilling journey through the breathtaking Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Kurobe Gorge Torokko Electric Railway and enjoy the Onsen in Ryokan Entaijiso.

• From 94,000 JPY

Nemophila Flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park & Ami Premium Outlets 1 Day Bus Tour

Enjoy the mesmerizing view of millions of Nemophila and other beautiful blooming flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park and shop at Ami Premium Outlets!

• From 14,900 JPY

Tokyo morning tour: Exploring Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Imperial Palace and Asakusa

Tokyo Treasures: Exploring Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Imperial Palace East Gardens and Asakusa.

• From 10,500 JPY

Walking tour in Tokyo's Koto district with Toyosu Fish Market buffet lunch

A unique new tour that will introduce you to a corner little traveled by classic itineraries!

• From 18,900 JPY

Sumo Experience & Chanko Nabe Lunch in Tokyo!

This is a must-do activity for every Sumo- and Japan-Lover!

• From 13,500 JPY

Practicing Zen through Tea Ceremony

In Zen, we learn different ways to find peace of mind despite changing circumstances. We offer a tea ceremony experience by an instructor who understands the spirit of Zen.

• From 8,800 JPY

Sushi Making Experience

This is a Cooking class with English instruction to make your own Sushi!

• From 13,200 JPY

【Private Tour】Kimono Dressing Experience

You can experience authentic kimono. The area around the venue is rich in greenery, with traditions dating back to the Edo period, such as Tokyo Tower, Zojoji Temple, and Shiba Park.

• From 17,380 JPY

Tokyo Gourmet Tour

[Dinner] Namijiya~Edo Cuisine~ (Japanese restaurant)

With Edo cuisine at its roots, Namijiya is a restaurant serving Japanese food that enables you to enjoy the delicious flavors of the ingredients themselves.

• From 7,700 JPY

Oshima Chinju Restaurant

Enjoy seasonal ingredients beautifully arranged and served with heartfelt hospitality. With a variety of private rooms available and a rich kaiseki menu!

• From 10,000 JPY

Seven Kinds of Sake & Complementary Foods Experience

Let's taste and compare 7 brands of sake such as happoshu, namazake, junmaishu.We also carefully selected dishes that match each sake for you.

• From 14,300 JPY

This tour will take you to the Mt Fuji area. Explore the volcanic area of Owakudani and descend by cable car!

• From 15,980 JPY

Chichibu in Depth: Mitsumine Shrine and Nagatoro 1 day bus tour

You will be able to visit the most interesting spots of this laid-back area in western Saitama, including the mysterious Mitsumine Shrine and an exciting River Cruise on the Arakawa River in Nagatoro!

Behold Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage! See one of Japan's top three waterfalls!!

Asakusa is famous as one of Japan's most popular tourist destinations. It is a very popular area visited by tourists from all over the world. The old streets, shopping arcades, and ancient temples line the streets, creating a wonderful view of the old town atmosphere. The Sky Tree, Tokyo's new symbolic tower, can be seen from many places in Asakusa, and it is a place where you can look up at Tokyo's past and present at the same time.

Discover Asakusa Tour

Asakusa Half Day Walking Tour

Visit the heart of tradition in Tokyo with an exhaustive walking tour in Asakusa, one of the best areas of the metropolis!

• From 5,980 JPY

Tokyo morning tour: Exploring Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Imperial Palace East Gardens and Asakusa

Sushi Making Tokyo ASAKUSA

Exclusive offer exclusively for HIS customers: sushi and green tea as a souvenir.

• From 9,000 JPY

Harajuku is the center of cutting-edge Japanese culture. The main street, Takeshita-dori, is a hub of kawaii culture, where fashion and shopping can be enjoyed. Omotesando Street is lined with famous brand-name boutiques and offers shopping for adults. On the other hand, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Yoyogi Park, and many other green tourist attractions make Harajuku a must-visit sightseeing spot in Tokyo for adults and children alike.

Discover Harajuku Tour

Hedgehog Cafe in Harajuku

The newest trend in Harajuku; first dedicated Hedgehog Cafe "Harry"! This is home to more than 20 ultra-adorable hedgehogs that become your friends.

• From 1,540 JPY

【MICRO PIG HOUSE】mipig cafe Harajuku

“Micro pig's house” is where all micro pigs from baby ones to adult ones friendly live together.Photography is possible! Please snap tons of adorable photos!

• From 4,500 JPY

【HIS Special Plan】Lolita Experience Photo Studio

You can enjoy yourself or with your friends. Why not try a Lolita experience in Harajuku, a mecca of Japanese pop culture that is sure to be instagenic?

• From 23,178 JPY

• Top Things to do

Tokyo Tours

• Attractions
• Harry Potter Tokyo Studio
• Mt Fuji Tours
• TeamLab Planets Tokyo

Tokyo Skytree

• Tokyo Tower Tickets
• Madame Tussauds
• FujiQ Highland
• LEGOLAND Discovery Center Tokyo
• Tokyo Sanrio Puroland
• Moomin Valley Park
• Edo Wonderland
• Roppongi Hills
• Tokyo Dome City
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Water Parks
• Observation Decks
• Sightseeing Cruises

Select Your Experience

From Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi & Lake Yamanaka Guided Tour

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Experience the best of Japan on a day tour from Tokyo with transfers and discover the beauty of Mt. Fuji with Chinese, Japanese, and English-speaking guide.
• Itinerary : 8am: Pick-up from Tokyo Station | 8:30am: Pick-up from Shinjuku Nishiguchi | 10:30am: Lake Kawaguchi | 1:20pm: Arakurayama Sengen Park or 5th Stations | 2:50pm: Lake Yamanaka | 4pm: Drop-off at Tokyo
• Bask in the stellar vistas of Lake Kawaguchi where the water reflects the snow-capped peak of Mt. Fuji, drawing artists and photographers from around the world.
• Capture the quintessential Mt. Fuji postcard moment with the five-tiered red pagoda amid cherry blossoms at Chureito Pagoda or visit the Mt. Fuji Fifth Station.
• Discover the untouched beauty of Lake Yamanaka, a tranquil paradise that transforms into a water sports hub in summer and a mystical ice sculpture festival in winter.
• Day tour of Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, and Lake Yamanaka
• Chinese, English, Japanese-speaking guide
• Round-trip transfers from Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Nishiguchi (as per the option selected)
• Onsen fee (hot spring)
• Tip: The best spots for cherry blossoms is the seaside promenade near the Kawaguchiko Music Forest, while photographers will enjoy the "Momiji Tunnel" for autumn colors, a maple tree-covered road section further west.
• The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users and people with mobility issues
• The itinerary schedule is subject to change according to weather, road conditions, and other reasons.

From Tokyo: Mt. Fuji Area, Oshino Hakkai, & Lake Kawaguchi Guided Day Tour

• Join an exciting day tour from Tokyo exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mount Fuji and its scenic surrounding areas, guided by an expert.
• Itinerary : Pick-up from Tokyo | Arakurayama Sengen Park | Hikawa Clock Shop street | Oshino Hakkai | Lawson convenience store | Lake Kawaguchi | Drop-off at Tokyo
• Climb 397 steps at Arakurayama Sengen Park for the five-storied Chureito Pagoda and Mt. Fuji views, then explore the streets of Hikawa Clock Shop.
• Sip sweet and clear springs at Oshino Hakkai by Mount Fuji's feet, then wander Lake Kawaguchi, a photographer's paradise with exquisite scenic beauty.
• Enhance your experience with an optional lunch featuring 'hoto', enjoy treats at Lawson, and hop from either Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Nishiguchi.
• Full-day tour of Mt. Fuji area, Oshino Hakkai, and Lake Kawaguchi
• English, Japanese, Chinese-speaking guide
• Pick-up and drop-off from Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Station (as per option selected)
• Ice cream or hot drink from Lawson Convenience Store
• Lunch (optional)
• Attraction tickets
• Tip: Consider visiting during cherry blossom season when the iconic Chureito Pagoda is framed by the blooming sakura, adding an extra layer of beauty to your experience.
• The itinerary schedule may be adjusted according to weather, road conditions, and other reasons.
• The night before your trip, you will receive an email regarding important information such as the phone number of the tour guide and the license plate number of the car. Please make sure that your email and mobile phone can be reached.
• Hoto noodles, a traditional Japanese dish, are not recommended for those following Islamic dietary restrictions.

From Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Oshino Hakkai, Onsen Hot Springs or Outlets Guided Day Tour

• Witness Japan's alpine beauty on a full-day guided tour of Mount Fuji and Oshino Hakkai with an expert guide, and go hassle-free with round-trip transfers from Tokyo.
• Itinerary : 8am: Pick-up from Tokyo | 10:30am: Mt. Fuji 5th Station or Arakura-yama Sengen Park | 12pm: Oshino Hakkai | 2pm: Gotemba Premium Outlets or Japanese Onsen | 5pm: Drop-off at Tokyo
• Enter through the majestic Torii gates at the 5th station to enjoy scenic views of the snow-capped Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest mountain, from a proximity.
• Explore Oshino Hakkai, a set of eight ponds created by the eruption of Mount Fuji. These ponds are renowned for their pristine water, filtered through porous volcanic rock for decades.
• Rejuvenate in a traditional Japanese hot spring – an Onsen or indulge in retail therapy as you enter a world of local and international brands at Gotemba Premium Outlets.
• Full-day tour
• Expert English, Chinese, and Japanese-speaking guide
• Round-trip transfers
• Food and drinks
• Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle. The water at Oshino Hakkai is considered some of the purest in Japan. Why not fill up your bottle here?

Sky Hop Bus: 1 or 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Tokyo

• Visit the most sought-after attractions in Tokyo with this hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus pass and tour the city at your own pace.
• Access 3 different bus routes and get the option to choose between a 1 or 2-day pass.
• Get to know more about the locations you pass with a multilingual audio guide and get WiFi access onboard.
• Explore places like Sensoji Temple, Tokyo Skytree, and Tokyo Tower on your tour.
• 1/2-day hop-on-hop-off bus pass
• Audio guide in 7 languages
• WiFi onboard
• Entry to attractions
• Personal expenses
• First bus: 9:10am from stop #1 (Mitsubishi Building)
• Last bus: 6pm from stop #1 (Mitsubishi Building)
• Popular stops: Tokyo Skytree, Ueno Station, and Mitsubishi Building
• Please click here for a detailed route map and boarding points.

Blue Course

• First bus: 9:15am from stop #1 (Mitsubishi Building) Last bus: 7:21pm from stop #1 (Mitsubishi Building)
• Popular stops: Zojo-ji Temple and Tsukiji Market

Green Course

• First bus: 9:50am from stop #1 (Mitsubishi Building) Last bus: 6:08pm from stop #1 (Mitsubishi Building)
• Popular stops: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and Shinjuku Station
• Tip: For the winter, it is recommended to bring warm clothes for the low temperatures on the rooftop deck.
• Facilities: Wifi
• The audio guide is available in Chinese, English, Spanish, Japanese, German, Korean, and French.
• Seats are not reserved for the Sky Hop Bus. Depending on the congestion at the bus stop, you may be asked to fill up your seat.
• There is no air-conditioning on the bus, the bus is an open deck.
• Raincoats will be distributed if needed. Note that the use of umbrellas on board the bus is prohibited.
• If there are no free seats on the bus, please board the next bus.
• These tickets can’t be cancelled. However, you can use them any time within the next 3 months.
• These tickets are valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.

Tickets to Ashikaga Flower Park

• Get lost in the mesmerizing hues of 350+ purple, white, and pink wisteria in bloom from late April to mid-May at Ashikaga Flower Park.
• Ever walked through a tunnel made of flowers? You can at Ashikaga Flower Park, where an 80-meter-long white wisteria tunnel awaits you.
• Revel in the beauty of the 150-year-old Great Miracle Wisteria, a living testament to the resilience and splendor of nature.
• From mid-May to mid-June, the park hosts the spring rose festival with nearly 500 different kinds of blooming roses in red, yellow, orange, blue, and white.
• Not just a summer-spring delight, the park dazzles in winter too! Get ready to be mesmerized by one of Japan's top 3 illumination displays.
• Entry to Ashikaga Flower Park
• Tip: Bring a piece of the park home with unique flower-based souvenirs, from seeds and plants to fragrances, available at the onsite shop.
• Note that the following are not allowed: wedding dresses, costumes, bikes, tricycles, carts, drones, and pets.

From Tokyo: Mt Fuji, Lake Ashi, Owakudani Valley & Onsen Guided Day Tour

• Escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo on this day tour of Hakone with convenient hotel transfers and Chinese, Japanese and English-speaking guide.
• Itinerary : Pick-up from Tokyo | Gotemba Premium Outlets or Hot Spring Baths | Owaku-dani Valley | Lake Ashi | Hakone Torii Gate | Hakone Shrine | Drop-off at Tokyo
• See the 'Great Boiling Valley' at Owaku-dani that erupted 4000 years ago and taste the famous black hot spring eggs, rumored to extend life by seven years.
• See the Cobalt-blue crater lake Ashinoko that was created by an eruption of Hakone-yama and is famous for stunning views of Mt. Fuji.
• Visit the Hakone Shrine, once a training ground for samurai and known for its incredibly picturesque red torii gate on the water called the Torii of Peace.
• Chinese, Japanese, English-speaking guide
• Tip: Dive into the tranquil experience of soaking in Konohananoyu hot springs, set against the stunning backdrop of Mt. Fuji.

Combo: Sky Hop Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour + Tokyo Skytree Tickets

• Get this super-saver combo ticket to explore Tokyo's top attractions on a hop-on hop-off bus and visit the world's tallest communication tower, Tokyo Skytree.
• Enjoy 12 hours of access to the Sky Hop Bus to discover the city at your own pace. Choose from 3 routes and 18 stops that cover the most popular sights.
• Armed with a 7-language audio guide, hop on a double-decker bus to visit Tokyo's oldest temple of Sensoji, and Ueno Park, a cherry blossom haven.
• At Tokyo Skytree, admire the skyline from the Tembo Deck from a height of 350 meters and catch sight of the bustling streets of Tokyo below.
• Upgrade your ticket to access Tembo Galleria's spiral skywalk for a higher vantage point from 450 meters and try to spot Mount Fuji and Tokyo Bay.
• Entry to Tokyo Skytree
• Entry to Tembo Deck
• Entry to Tembo Galleria (optional)

Sky Hop Bus

• 12-hour hop-on hop-off pass
• Audio guide in Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, French, and German
• First bus from Mitsubishi Building: 9:10am
• Last bus from Mitsubishi Building: 4:30pm
• Popular Stops: Ryogoku, Edo-Tokyo Museum, Tokyo Skytree Station, Asakusa Hanakawado
• First bus from Mitsubishi Building: 9:15am
• Last bus from Mitsubishi Building: 6:05pm
• Popular Stops: Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Teleport Station, Ginza

Green route

• First bus from Mitsubishi Building: 9:50am
• Last bus from Mitsubishi Building: 4:20pm
• Popular Stops: Shinjuku Gyoen, Shinjuku Station South Exit, Shibuya City Hall

Please click here for the detailed route map and boarding points.

• Tip: Don't miss exploring Solamachi Mall located at the base of the Skytree. It's a shopper's paradise with an array of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Guests are required to present the mobile voucher and exchange it for a physical ticket at 4F Ticket Counter.
• Guests suffering from heart conditions are not recommended to join this activity.
• The Tokyo Skytree tower is suitable for wheelchair and pram/stroller users. Guests can borrow a wheelchair but this is subject to availability.
• The voucher is valid only on the specified date and time.
• Tip: If your schedule is tight and only allows for 1 or 2 routes, consider skipping the Green Course, especially if you don't have a specific interest in visiting Shibuya or Shinjuku.
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Combo (Save 5%): Tickets to Tokyo Tower + Sky Hop Bus: 1 or 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Tokyo

• This discounted combo gives you a chance to explore Tokyo on a hop-on hop-off tour and access to Tokyo Tower.
• Access 3 different bus routes and get the option to choose between a 1 or 2-day pass with this hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus pass.
• Learn on the go with a multilingual audio guide and get WiFi access onboard.
• Built in 1958, Tokyo Tower is one of the city's most popular attractions where you can catch wonderful views of Mt. Fuji.
• You can even shop and eat at the various restaurants around the observatory as you enjoy the view from the Main Observatory (150 m).

1 or 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Tokyo

Tokyo Tower

• Admission ticket to the Main Observatory (150m)
• Tip: Check the weather conditions before booking your ticket to ensure you get clear views of Mt Fuji.
• Show your voucher at Tokyo Tower Foot Town 1F, Service Counter to exchange it to a physical ticket.
• Children aged 0-3 can enter free of charge.
• Coin lockers (charged) are available at Tokyo Tower Foot Town 1F.
• Tickets are open-dated and you can redeem your tickets anytime within validity (90 days after the purchase date).

Tokyo Sumo Tournament English Guided Tour

• Don't just watch, live the electrifying culture of sumo wrestling at the exclusive Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournament.
• Secure your B-class or C-class reserved seat to enjoy an unobstructed view of the action-packed wrestling matches.
• Learn all about sumo traditions from your savvy English-speaking guide as the adrenaline-filled matches unfold right before your eyes.
• Opt for a traditional sumo meal, the delectable Chanko nabe, a hotpot loved by the wrestlers. You can pick a vegetarian option too.
• B-class reserved seats or C-class reserved seats
• English-speaking tour guide
• Sumo information and pamphlet
• Small group tour of 17
• Dinner (optional)
• Tip: Don't miss the pre-match purification ritual, where wrestlers throw salt into the ring to drive away evil spirits.
• Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the arena.
• The experience is not wheelchair accessible accessible. There is a wheelchair storage space inside the stadium's 1st floor. However, since your seats are on the 2nd floor, people with mobility issues may have to climb the stairs on their own (or with the help of their family).
• Infants and toddlers between ages 1 to 3 can enter free of charge if they don't need a seat (must sit on their parents' laps).
• Children must be accompanied by adults (18 or older).
• Note that this tour can accommodate a maximum of 17 people in 1 group.
• A minimum of 8 guests are required for this tour and if there aren't enough bookings, the tour will be canceled.

Hakone Free Pass

• Take in the scenic and famous hot springs with the Hakone Freepass, a discounted ticket for all Hakone tourist attractions.
• With a round-trip ticket on the Odakyu line and on-and-off rides in the designated areas, you can travel without worry.
• Receive special discounts from 70+ shops and attractions.
• Explore Hakone at your leisure with unlimited access to 8 transportation systems, including the Hakone Tozan Line and the Hakone Ropeway.
• Enjoy the famous hot springs and make unforgettable memories.
• Choose a 2-day or a 3-day pass
• Round-trip ticket (between Shinjuku Station and Odawara Station) for the Odakyu Lines
• Special discount for about 70 sightseeing facilities
• Unlimited rides on 8 transportation in Hakone area:
• Hakone Tozan Train
• Hakone Tozan Cable Car
• Hakone Ropeway
• Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
• Hakone Tozan Bus (designated areas only)
• Odakyu Hakone Highway Bus (designated areas only)
• Tokai Bus (designated areas only)
• KANKO SHISETSU-MEGURI” Bus (Tourist Attraction Sightseeing Bus)
• Izu Hakone Bus
• Limited Express Romancecar
• Hakone Regular Sightseeing Bus
• For the Limited Express Romance Car, an express ticket is required in addition to a regular ticket or discount pass.
• Extra fare applies if you ride beyond the designated areas.
• Only one round-trip is allowed between your departing station and Odawara Station on the Odakyu Line.
• Rides are not valid on the seasonal sightseeing bus.
• The Odakyu Hakone Express Bus has priority for those with reserved seats and cannot be boarded if it is complete.
• Services can get suspended due to bad weather conditions. Hakone Freepass holders who could not board due to suspension may obtain a refund for that particular portion at the Odakyu Sightseeing service center.
• These tickets are valid for 2 days from the date of purchase.

• Work With Us
• Blogging Bootcamp

• Van Conversion Academy
• Campervan Shop
• Campervan Rentals
• Plan a Trip
• Itineraries
• Destinations
• Responsible Travel
• Family Travel
• Budget Travel
• Scuba Diving
• Travel Credit Cards
• Digital Nomad
• Teach English Abroad
• Blogging Resources
• Income Reports
• Travel Shop
• Meet Katie & Ben
• About Two Wandering Soles
• Personal Stuff
• Portfolio & Press

45 Best Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan

Home » Blog » Japan » 45 Best Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan

If you’re heading to Japan, you won’t want to miss this epic list of things to do in Tokyo. Packed with adventure, food, history and culture, Tokyo is a place that is easy to love. Since Japan’s capital city is on most travelers’ itinerary, we’re sharing our top tips and advice that will help you plan what to do in Tokyo, Japan!

There is no place in the world quite like Tokyo. This sprawling metropolis has a combination of modern skyscrapers as well as historic temples. You’ll find ultimate zen as well as chaos.

You’ll find Michelin star restaurants next to vending machines selling surprisingly tasty meals . And you’ll find long-standing traditions like tea ceremonies and sumo wrestling just blocks away from eccentrically costumed teenagers that live and breathe Japanese pop culture.

These beautiful contradictions are what make Tokyo such a unique and interesting place that appeals to travelers of all ages, budgets and interests.

With so many things to do in Tokyo, it can be overwhelming trying to plan your first trip to this crazy city. But fear not – we are here to help!

Don’t miss this! We have a whole list of the coolest things to do in Tokyo at night .

We’ve rounded up the top things to do in Tokyo from our own experiences as well as favorites from other travel bloggers . This huge list will surely inspire you with all sorts of quirky activities and must-see sights when you plan your trip to Japan’s capital city.

Read this before your trip: First Timer’s Guide to Traveling to Japan

Tokyo Travel Guide

Unique things to do in tokyo, japanese cultural experiences.

• Best food & drink experiences in Tokyo
• Free & cheap things to do in Tokyo

For more tips and advice for planning your trip to Tokyo, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

• How many days do you need?

Best time to visit Tokyo

Getting around tokyo, tips for visiting tokyo, where to eat in tokyo, where to stay in tokyo.

• What to pack
• Round up of things to do in Tokyo

Psst! If you’ll be traveling more throughout the country, be sure to check out our bucket list of crazy fun things to do in Japan !

Top things to do in Tokyo

If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Tokyo, here are our top recommendations: 

• Walk through Shibuya Crossing
• Eat your way around Tokyo on a food tour
• Explore TeamLAB PLANETS
• Catch a Sumo wrestling match
• Take a free walking tour
• Climb (or just view) the Tokyo Skytree

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these things and more ideas of fun things to do in Tokyo. 

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, we have the ultimate resource for you!

This  FREE   PDF download  includes  everything  you’re going to want to pack for your Japan trip, including what NOT to bring, plus tons of insider tips!

Sign up for our  ultimate Japan packing list  now and get a copy sent straight to your inbox.

1. Walk through Shibuya Crossing

When in Tokyo, most travelers make it a point to see the “Shibuya Scramble” – the world’s busiest intersection and one of the things Japan is most famous for .

It’s a pretty wild sight to see crowds merge into one ridiculously packed junction. Stand on the sidewalk and wait for the crosswalks to turn green and get lost in the chaos!

Come in the daylight hours or at night when everything is aglow in neon lights. Or if you have time, come for both.

Check out this short time lapse we took in the middle of Shibuya Crossing!

Shibuya Sky Rooftop Observatory

Another alternative to having eyes on the ground is viewing the chaos from above. The Shibuya Sky rooftop observatory is the newest addition to Tokyo’s lineup of rooftop views. 

At approximately 230 meters (~755 ft) above the intersection, it’s the tallest skyscraper in Shibuya. The open-air observatory offers 360º views of the city and on a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance. 

• Entrance fee: 2000 yen for adults (~$15 USD); 1800 yen if you book online in advance
• Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Other viewpoints

There’s also a Starbucks that overlooks the madness. Though we will warn you, the Starbucks is something of an attraction itself, and is always crowded. It is even said to be the busiest location of this coffee chain in the world!

It is currently closed and is undergoing renovations, so instead, head to the 8th floor rooftop observatory of  MAGNET . You must buy a drink (starting at around 500 yen) to enter. 

Related: Check out this list of our favorite day trips from Tokyo .

2. Eat your way around Tokyo on a food tour

If you’re like us and want to try as much food as possible in the little time you have, the best way to do so is to go on a food tour of Tokyo. Sample small portions of popular dishes so you can have a little of everything without filling up too quickly. Oh, and the walking portion of the tour helps you “earn” that food. Genius!

We’ve taken food tours all around the world, and they are a great way to find local gems and learn more about each dish and the culture as a whole.

We went on two food tours in Japan, one in Osaka and one in Tokyo. Each tour was very different and we not only got to try a ton of different foods, but we were able to explore neighborhoods alongside someone who lives in the city.

Arigato is the highest rated food tour company in Japan, and we had a great experience with them on their Tokyo tour. Below are some of the different food tours they offer in Tokyo.

Food and Drink tour options in Tokyo:

• Tokyo Allstar Food Tour with Arigato Food Tours
• Old Town Tokyo Food Tour with Arigato Food Tours
• Luxury Tokyo Sake, Cocktail, Whisky and Pairing Tour with Arigato Food Tours

3. Explore teamLAB Borderless & PLANETS

Lose yourself in an  immersive art experience  where you’re encouraged to kick off your shoes and connect with the installations, blurring the boundaries between art and reality. 

The  Tokyo-based art collective known as teamLab  is famous for creating art installations that are unmatched. 

In 2019, we visited  teamLab Borderless  ( now reopened in a new location! ). We loved it so much that when we planned to return to Tokyo in 2023, one of the first things we did was purchase tickets to teamLab PLANETS.

This  uber-Instagrammable art experience  features crystal “rain”, giant balls that change colors, koi fish that are projected onto water that you walk through, and live orchids that lower down from the ceiling…  anyone else reminded of Willy Wonka?! 

The experience is hard to sum up in words. So stop thinking about it and just book your tickets already! Speaking of which, this is definitely something you want to purchase in advance as  they sell out every day .

TeamLAB PLANETS

PLANETS will only be open until 2027 , so add this to your Japan itinerary while you can. 

• Location:  teamLab PLANETS Tokyo , Toyosu 6-1-16, Koto-ku, Tokyo
• Hours:  10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• Entrance fee:  3,200 Yen for adults (~$23 USD) 

TeamLAB Borderless

The TeamLab Borderless Museum has reopened in it’s new location in Tokyo!

• Location:  teamLab Borderless Tokyo , Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza B B1, 1-2-4 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo
• Borderless is CLOSED on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month. (You will see that you cannot purchase tickets for these dates.)
• Entrance fee:  3,800 Yen for adults (~$25 USD) 

Psst! One of our biggest pieces of advice is to  purchase your tickets ahead of time . 

4. Visit a sumo wrestling stable

Recommended by: Annette from Bucket List Journey

You can’t fully understand the intensity of the sumo wrestling sport unless you are up close and personal at an intense morning practice session to witness the panting, grunting and dripping sweat.

The practices are not attractions created for tourists—the athletes are not putting on a show for you—they are in serious training and need to be shown respect while you are there.

​​Though there are over 40 training stables, most in the Ryogoku district, only a few accept visitors. The most common are Kasugano Beya, Takasago Beya and Musashigawa Beya. 

It’s best to book a sumo wrestling tour . Make sure to call ahead to confirm that they will be having practice on the day you arrive!

5. Take a free walking tour

Free walking tours are a great way to see the top highlights of a city when you have limited time. Plus, being guided through Tokyo by a local will open your eyes to some sites and stories you never would have picked up on otherwise.

Tokyo Localized  offers a few types of tours in different neighborhoods that highlight unique aspects of the city.

Or do it at your own pace by pinning all the big sights on your Google Maps app or Maps.me and letting your feet guide you.

Insider Tip:  While you can download a map of Tokyo on Maps.me to use offline, it might be worthwhile to get a  WiFi hotspot  for your trip to Japan. This means you’ll have unlimited data and won’t ever be left without Internet.

6. Climb (or just view) the Tokyo Skytree

The Skytree is to Tokyo what the Space Needle is to Seattle . While walking around Tokyo, if you look up at the skyline, you really can’t miss it. 

Standing 634 meters tall, the Tokyo Skytree is a TV broadcast tower and all-around symbol of the city. 

We’re not huge proponents of overpriced viewpoints, so our recommendation is to spot it from the ground (then check out #32 for a free viewpoint!). But if you don’t mind shelling out $17 USD, going to the top of the Skytree (350 meters and second platform of 450 meters) might be your jam! 

On a clear day, this is the best place in Tokyo to view Mount Fuji.  To get a ticket to the viewing point, book your Skytree admission ticket ahead of time. You’ll get to skip the line too!

Psst! Check out our list of the most beautiful places in Japan you’ll have to see to believe!

Tokyo is absolutely packed with mind-boggling, heart-thumping, imagination-bending things to do. Satisfy your nerdy urges, your boozy desires and your adrenaline cravings in this exciting city!

Planning a trip to Japan? Find out the best time to visit Japan based on seasonal weather patterns and your personal travel style.

7. Drive a real life Mario Kart

Recommended by:  Emily from Travellers Horizons

As someone who has spent many hours of their life playing Mario Kart, I was super excited when I found you can make the game a reality by dressing up as your favorite character and driving around the streets of Tokyo in a custom built go-kart.

Though you can’t throw banana skins or turtle shells, it is still a unique and fun experience and probably the coolest way to see the city sights.

We booked a tour with  MariCar , and opted for their SM course which began at their Shinagawa #1 office just a short train ride from Tokyo city center.  This 2-hour tour took us through the well-known areas of Shibuya, Roppongi, Harajuku, and even past the Tokyo Tower, which dwarfed us in our mini carts. 

At first, I was nervous about driving in a tiny cart on the streets of Tokyo, but those nerves soon subsided when I experienced how organized the roads are, and how courteous other drivers are towards you. It was also less busy than I expected, as amazingly 57% of all travel in Tokyo is via public transportation.

Our guide Miyoshi ensured we were never separated and took many photos of us throughout the journey which were quickly uploaded to a Google Drive and emailed to us after the tour ended, plus we were provided with a printed photo collage which was an unexpected and happy surprise. 

If you’re thinking this sounds great but you’re going elsewhere in Japan, do not worry! MariCar not only have offices around Tokyo but also other major cities like Kyoto and Osaka . There are loads of tours you can choose from and even night tours where they light up the go-cart.

You can also add some extras to make your tour even more fun such as music, LED shoes and mustaches. If you want to record the journey, bring an action camera or rent one from the shop. They also sell SD cards at a very reasonable price.

You’ll feel like a celebrity when you drive around the city, as many people wave at you and take pictures. It’s an experience that should not be missed on your visit to Japan!

8. Experience insanity at an over-the-top themed restaurant

The Robot Restaurant is arguably the most famous of the themed restaurants in Tokyo (visited by famous people like Katy Perry and Anthony Bourdain). However, it seems it was sadly another casualty of the pandemic and closed down in 2021 (along with the popular Kawaii Monster Cafe in Harajuku). 

The good news is, there are plenty of other over-the-top themed restaurants and cafes in Tokyo you can still visit to get the full experience. From Ninja and vampire-themed to back-to-school and Alice in Wonderland, it seems there isn’t a theme untouched in Tokyo.

Top themed restaurants in Tokyo

• 2D Cafe : This quirky cafe will make you feel as if you’ve hopped into a drawing. The restaurant’s black and white interior looks just like a cartoon drawing. They specialize in bubble teas and Korean-style shaved ice dessert, which pop against the 2D background!
• Ninja restaurant : This is a full-blown experience, and one of the only theme restaurants where the food is actually known to be quite good. Dine-in what appears to be an Edo-era village, complete with waterfalls, ponds and the sounds of chirping crickets. And be entertained by ninja performances at your table. With set menus starting at 5500 yen, this experience does not come cheap, but the rave reviews speak for themselves.
• Alice in Fantasy Book : One of three Alice in Wonderland themed restaurants owned by the same company and spread out across Tokyo. 
• Kagaya : It seems the only theme to this bar/cafe is insanity. Patrons can expect screaming, costumes, and puppets… If you’re looking for an experience that leaves you wondering, “What the hell just happened?!” this might be it.
• Flower Cafe : If you’re looking for an experience that is not so showy or cutesy, the Aoyama Flower Market Tea House may be just what you’re looking for. Set inside a flower market, this cafe is undoubtedly beautiful.

Check out this list of other crazy themed restaurants in Tokyo !

9. See a Japanese Baseball Game at the Tokyo Dome

Recommended by:  Anne from Pretraveller

A great cultural activity while you are visiting Tokyo is to attend a Japanese baseball game –  you may not realize that baseball is the national sport of Japan.  The Japanese people really love to support their teams, so the experience of being part of a very active crowd and hearing the drums and cheering is amazing! 

In Tokyo the easiest options to attend a match are either to see the Yomiuri Giants in action at the Tokyo Dome on the northern side of Tokyo, or to see the Yakult Swallows play at Jingu Stadium, which is right beside Shinjuku.  The professional baseball season runs from late March to October each year and easy options to book your tickets online can be found in our article on  how to purchase your baseball tickets .

10. Celebrate your inner child at Tokyo Disneyland

Recommended by: Mark from The Shutter Whale

You can never be too old for Disneyland! If you ever find yourself in Tokyo, you should set aside one full-day to explore the happiest place on earth!

Since you are technically not supposed to consume any food that is not purchased in the park, make sure you bring enough cash since the food prices can be quite high. On the bright side, the food quality is very good, and some of the snacks are almost too adorable to be eaten.

Also, make sure you bring your camera since there is a photo opportunity around every single corner. 

If you are planning to get on the most popular rides at the Tokyo Disney resort, make sure you understand how the FASTPASS works.

Planning is crucial if you wish to make the most out of your stay. Otherwise, don’t stress out and simply enjoy the journey – just make sure to stay until night falls for that amazing fireworks display!

Alternative: Spend a day at Tokyo DisneySea

A new kind of Disney theme park, DisneySea in Tokyo is a nautical themed park featuring more adult-friendly attractions. 

As part of the Tokyo Disney Resort, DisneySea is unique to Tokyo. Made up of seven themed ports, you can visit the Mediterranean Harbor, Mysterious Island, Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery and American Waterfront.

Though the park still provides fun for all ages, to appeal to a more grown up audience, you will find more table-service restaurants here and can purchase alcoholic beverages as well (which are not available in neighboring Disneyland).

11. Soak in an Onsen

Recommended by:  Lena from The Social Travel Experiment

The Japanese hot springs called Onsen are very popular with locals and tourists alike , and while there are many famous Onsen resort towns all over Japan (mainly where hot springs occur naturally), Tokyo is not famous for Onsen. But that doesn’t mean you cannot have an authentic Onsen experience in one of the biggest metropolises in the world.

Over the years I have visited  multiple Onsen in Tokyo . They all have something a little bit different to offer and vary in size and price.

My very first visit to an Onsen in Tokyo was Oedo Onsen Monogatari, a theme park like Onsen experience where you cannot only take a bath in one of the many indoor and outdoor pools, but have other entertainments like delicious food, shows and different experiences like doctor fish or stone sauna.

If you want an experience that is as authentic as possible,  I recommend a visit to  Tokyo Somei Onsen Sakura .  This Onsen is exceptionally beautiful in spring when the cherry blossoms on the property are in bloom, but a visit at any time of the year won’t disappoint.

12. Sing your favorite tunes in a Karaoke Room

If you’re traveling with friends or meeting some interesting people along the way, consider going to a karaoke room!

You’ll be escorted to your own room, which typically has a couch and a television screen from which you can select all your favorite songs… Spice Girls, anyone?? (“Wannabe” is Ben’s go-to Karaoke song!) And the best part is nobody will complain if you’re off-tune!

Most  karaoke rooms  charge by the half-hour and serve snacks and drinks if you’d like to indulge.

Alternative:  If you want to experience karaoke but in a bar setting (aka no private room rental), we’ve heard good things about  Diamond Bar in Golden Gai .

13. Stroll Kappabashi Street

Sometimes referred to as Kitchen Town , this interesting street in Tokyo is almost entirely populated with shops supplying the restaurant trade. 

You may be wondering why on earth a street for restaurant supplies would make our list of top things to do in Tokyo, but hear us out… 

The shops on Kappabashi are best known for sampuru —replicas of food dishes that are part of a century-old craft. These dishes make excellent Japanese souvenirs . Plus, a stroll through this part of town will get you off the main tourist path. 

14. Ghibli Museum

Showcasing the anime from the famous Studio Ghibli, this museum is one of the most unique things to do in Tokyo. 

Known as the Japanese Walt Disney, Hayao Miyazaki is the mastermind behind the art. Visitors to the museum can learn about the process of animation and admire his work displayed in the many interactive exhibits. 

• Entrance fee: 1000 yen for adults (~$7)
• Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., closed on Tuesdays

15. Cuddle kitties at Cat Cafe MoCHA

Recommended by:  Chelsea from  The Portable Wife

If you love caffeine, city views, and adorable cats, a visit to Harajuku’s Cat Cafe MoCHA is a must.

Once you don your slippers and fuzzy cat-ear headband, you’ll join tourists and Japanese salarymen inside kitty paradise.  Not surprisingly, the feline residents are rather aloof , but if you snag a blanket and put it over your lap, you’ll greatly increase your chances of a cozy encounter.

Guests pay a timed admission fee, with 30 minutes being the minimum, and the price includes a drink.

The cafe limits the number of visitors allowed inside at a time, so if you visit on the weekends or during peak travel season, you may need to queue outside.

Related Reading:  Not far outside of Tokyo,  Japan has some incredible destinations for scuba diving . Just a couple hours drive or a short flight to some of the islands and you will find yourself in a diver’s underwater paradise.

There is something utterly captivating about Japanese culture. While you’re traveling in Tokyo, there are plenty of opportunities to delve deeper and learn about longstanding traditions and customs.

16. Watch a traditional tea ceremony

Recommended by:  Laura from Savored Journeys

A real, traditional Japanese tea ceremony can take many hours and is a very choreographed ritual that includes the preparation and serving of the matcha tea to the guests.

It’s a wonderful authentic ceremony, but it’s not necessary for tourist to partake in a full tea ceremony in order to learn about it, which is why there are many shorter, more informal ceremonies for tourists that are respectful of the ritual.

Participating in a traditional tea ceremony  in Japan can be very fascinating and educational.  If you want to add this activity to your things to do in Tokyo, it’s a good idea to first understand the different types of ceremonies that are available to tourist.

You can participate in an hour-long ceremony, where you wear traditional kimonos, or you can go join an  informal ceremony  where you learn about the ritual and perform the steps yourself in just a few minutes.

Tea ceremonies for visitors range in price from 100 to 35,000 yen, depending on the type of experience it is.

For a basic overview during an informal ceremony head to Hamarikyu Gardens tea house, where at 15-minute do-it-yourself tea ceremony is just $6. Another option is at Kyoto City in Tokyo Station, open from Friday to Sunday afternoon in the afternoon.

If you want the fully immersive experience wearing a kimono, the Asakusa area has many option, like Nadeshiko, which is open 11am to 5pm everyday except Wednesday and Thursday. It’s always best to make an advanced reservation, particularly in high season.

Whichever way you choose, you will surely learn a lot about the culture of tea ceremonies and enjoy the experience.

17. Visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace

Just a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station sits one of the city’s crown jewels, the Tokyo Imperial Palace. This complex consists of meticulously-maintained gardens, art galleries, castle ruins, parks, and of course, the home of the Emperor himself.

Much of this area can be visited for free (you just need to register) and there are even complimentary guided tours, making this a must if you’re traveling Tokyo on a budget .

18. Watch a Kabuki Show

Recommended by:  Julie from  The Bamboo Traveler

How would you like to see sword-wielding samurai, heart-broken geishas, and devastating betrayals?

Then you’ll want to be sure you watch kabuki theater while traveling to Tokyo. This is Japan’s version of a racy and tragic Shakespearean drama, in which women’s roles are played by men and the actors are adorned in extravagant makeup.

Kabuki shows run every day at the Kabuki-za Theater in Ginza.

Normally, shows are expensive and last all day.  However, the theater offers reasonably priced single act tickets ranging from 600 yen for a 20-minute dance performance to 1500 yen for an hour and a half drama.

You can choose from 5 to 6 shows a day starting at 11:00 am and going until the evening. Tickets go on sale 30 minutes before shows begin. Make sure to arrive at least 60 minutes before the show starts as tickets are limited.

You can even get a  “behind-the-scenes” tour of the Kabuki-za Gallery  before a performance and learn about the theater and props.

Insider Tip:  Although performances are in Japanese, you can rent an electronic translator for 500 yen, which helps tremendously. 

19. Visit the Kamakura Buddha

Recommended by:  Shannon from  A Little Adrift

Just an hour long train ride from Tokyo but a world away from the bustle, Kamakura is a beach town popular with Japanese and international tourists alike. It’s quite easy to navigate, and there are enough things to fill an entire day.

The most notable is the giant bronze Buddha statue in Kōtoku-in temple that dates to the 13th century.  Although it’s not the largest in Japan, it is a gorgeous statue!

You should also not leave town until you’ve hiked through the forests in and around Hase-dera temple, relieved the heat with a sweet potato ice cream, and splashed in the waves at the beach.

A local bus service easily runs between the train station and the cluster of recommended sites, which are all easily walkable once you step off the bus.

20. Wander around the Meiji Shrine

Tokyo is chaotic, there’s no doubt about it. But there are a few places near the city that feel like an escape from the madness of the center. Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu) was one of those places for us.

Walk on wooded pathways, and explore the grounds of this simple, yet beautiful temple. If you visit on a weekend, you might even be lucky enough to see a Japanese wedding ceremony take place like we did!

21. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Re commended by:  Alyse from The Invisible Tourist

If there were only one simple word to describe Tokyo, it would be LARGE. Not only is it the world’s largest city by population and coming a close second in area after New York City, Tokyo is also home to the world’s largest passenger train station located in Shinjuku.

A whopping 3.5 million people pass through it daily. With all these large statistics, it’s no wonder Tokyo may feel a little crowded at times!

Thankfully, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is located only a short 10 minute walk east from JR Shinjuku Station and  is the perfect place to escape the otherwise hectic streets of the surrounding neighborhood.

The grounds are made up of three different types of landscaped gardens: French, English and traditional Japanese and are lovely stroll through the many winding pathways or lounge on the emerald lawns to soak in some sun. 

A whopping 20,000 trees are dotted throughout Shinjuku Gyoen including 1,500 cherry trees, making the park one of the most popular locations in early springtime for cherry blossom viewing in Tokyo . 

Shinjuku Gyoen is open Tuesday through Sunday from 09:00 – 16:30 and costs JPY 200 to enter. Be sure to add this beautifully tranquil location to your  Tokyo itinerary !

22. See the famous red lantern at Sensoji Temple

Famous for its giant red lantern, the  Sensoji Temple  is a top sight to see in Tokyo. And since it’s on just about every traveler’s itinerary, expect this area to be crowded. Really crowded! But even so, it is worth a quick visit.

This Buddhist temple is located in Asakusa, a district in downtown Tokyo known for its historical sights. Built in 645, Sensoji is Tokyo’s oldest temple.

If you’re looking for souvenirs, you’ll find no shortage of stands in this popular tourist zone, selling everything from Japanese snacks to folding fans.

Psst! We have a list of must-see landmarks in Japan that’s sure to give you some inspiration for your itinerary!

23. Tokyo National Museum

The century-old National Museum is Tokyo’s oldest museum and one of the largest art museums in the world. The museum houses a collection of art from all over Asia celebrating the cultural heritage of Japan. 

• Location: Ueno Park
• Entrance fee: entry is free of charge
• Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed Mondays

24. Spend the night at a Ryokan

For a quintessentially Japanese hotel experience, staying at a ryokan is a sure way to soak up traditional culture and hospitality. Though you can find ryokans all around the country, there are some great ones to choose from in Tokyo.

Ryokans are typically characterized by tatami-matted rooms (see the photo above).  Traditionally, ryokans have communal baths and they provide guests with yukata (a casual kimono).

Staying at a ryokan isn’t cheap, but it is one of those “bucket list” experiences that you can only find in Japan, so why not add it to your travel plans?!

Depending on your budget, you can choose from ryokans that include traditional meals as part of your stay. Some even have their own onsen (hot spring for bathing).

Best Ryokans in Tokyo

Budget Ryokan:   Ryokan & Day Shizuku  – While the location is not in central Tokyo, would be good for a night or two so you can have your own private spa and ryokan experience. Get the feel of Japanese hostipitality without the big price tag.

Mid-Range Ryokan:   Miyabiyado Takemine  – Ryokan and Western style mix in this beautifully decorated inn. Feel at peace in the premium rooms which offer open-air baths.

Luxury Ryokan:   Hoshinoya Tokyo  – Everything you have ever wanted in a Japanese culture experience. Bamboo framed paper walls, onsite hot spring bath, and settled in the perfect location in Tokyo.

Best food and drink experiences in Tokyo

Japanese cuisine is touted as some of the finest in the world (and trust us, it goes far beyond sushi!). While you’re exploring the capital city, there are plenty of Japanese foods to try and interesting foodie experiences to be had.

Related Reading:   Best foods to try in Japan : Everything you need to know about Japanese cuisine.

25. Take a Japanese cooking class

We are huge fans of taking  cooking classes on our travels , as we think food is one of the best ways to learn about a culture. Plus, we love to cook, and we really enjoy collecting recipes that we can make for our friends and family back at home someday.

While in Tokyo, sign up for a cooking class and learn how to make Japanese staples like homemade soba noodles, wagyu beef, or tempura.

Or sign up for a sushi class where you’ll learn all the secrets to making your very own rolls.

Note:  We took a cooking class in Kyoto and in Osaka, but there are  plenty of  great cooking classes in Tokyo .

26. Eat ALL the Ramen

Forget about those packets of dry noodles you bought for 20 cents back in your university days.  The ramen you’ll find in Tokyo (or anywhere in Japan, for that matter!) is a whole different story.

With thousands of noodle shops around the city, you’ll have no problem finding a place to sit belly up next to the bar as your bowl of steaming noodles is prepared for you.

A traditional bowl with have perfectly chewy noodles, thin slices of pork shoulder and a soft cooked egg all together in a bowl of brothy goodness. And you’ll find non-traditional versions as well, like smoked duck, lemon chicken or spicy seafood.

Like I said, these gourmet bowls are a far cry from the sodium-ridden packets you ate in your younger years. And they are oh so satisfying after a long day of walking around the city, especially if you’re visiting Tokyo in the winter .

Where to eat ramen in Tokyo

There are literally thousands of restaurants to choose from in Tokyo, so don’t go too far for a specific restaurant. But here are a couple of ideas to start off your #RamenHunt:

a) Ramen Cubicle at Ichiran:  Multiple locations in Tokyo (and around Japan)

We’d heard people rave about the famed ramen chain, Ichiran, and decided we couldn’t leave Japan without giving it a try. Lemme tell ya… it was well worth it. 

First, you get to fill out a survey, more or less, in which you tell the chefs how to make your perfect ramen. You’ll have to answer questions that you’ve never thought about, like ‘how chewey do you want your noodles?’ and ‘how rich do you like the flavor?’

Once there is a seat available, you’ll be led to your own private ramen “cubicle”, which kind of reminded me of a row of phone booths with small partitions.

Your little booth even has a water spout so you can hydrate while you wait. Iit won’t take long before a small door is opened and a pair of hands holding a bowl of ramen extend and set it down in front of you before said door is closed.

Now it’s time to enjoy that sweet, sweet ramen in your little isolation booth.

Yep, that’s right, there are actually signs that explain the ramen booths were designed so guests can have a more “intimate experience with their ramen, free of distractions”. Mmmm… however weird that statement makes you feel, I can assure you one thing:  your ramen will be friggin’ delicious. 

Oh, and you can press a button and request “extras”, like more noodles, a soft-boiled egg, or sliced pork.

How did Ichiran stack up against other ramen shops we tried?  The broth was really, really good. However, we both agreed we’ve had better noodles elsewhere. Still highly recommended. But we also urge you to try a bunch so you can find your own personal favorite ramen. There are many types of ramen, and each person has their own preference.

The great thing about Ichiran is they have many locations all around the country (and even abroad).

b) Tokyo Train Station Underground:  Choose from the Best Ramen Shops in the Country

In the Tokyo Station Underground , there is a place where you’ll find perhaps your best bowl of ramen in the country . That’s right – I said you’ll find some killer food in the  train station. 

“Ramen Street” is deep underground, yet the food that’s served up here is far better food than you’d expect of a train station.

Most famous ramen shops in the country have been asked to make a secondary restaurant here, so you’ll have the best of the best all in one place. Plus, there’s a ton of variety – from vegan ramen to the classics to types you won’t find in many other places. 

The most famous of all is Rokurinsha, which is known for  tsukemen , a style of ramen where the noodles are served separately and dipped into the rich broth. The queue can get very long, so if you don’t have time or patience to wait, you can try this style ramen at Oreshiki Jun, which is just around the corner.

We tried it there and  ohemgee , these were the best ramen noodles I’ve ever tasted. They’re also known for a great  tonkotsu  ramen, so if you’re traveling with a partner, try one of each. 

27. Drink sake

This spirit is to Japan what mezcal is to Mexico or what chianti is to Tuscany. So while in Tokyo, try a glass… or two! But be careful; even though it is referred to as “rice wine”, the alcohol content is higher, weighing in at 18 – 20 ABV percent or more.

You won’t have a problem finding sake on just about every menu, but if you want a cool experience, head to  Sake Stand Moto  in Shinjuku. Tiny hole-in-the-wall bar is standing room only and fits just 15 people. The sake choices change up often, and there is quite the variety. Tell the staff you’re a beginner and they can give you recommendations.

Good to know:  It can be considered rude to pour your own glass of sake. If you are drinking with a friend, pour for each other — it’s considered a way to bond!

And if you want to learn more about the whole distilling process, consider taking a  sake brewery tour . There are 9 to choose from in Tokyo, and some are free!

The breweries are located on the outskirts of the city, however, so plan on making a day trip of it. Our pick is  Ozawa Shuzo , which is the oldest sake brewery in Tokyo and is located near picturesque mountains, nature trails and shrines.

Fun Travel Tip:  For a unique  Japanese souvenir , pick up a ceramic sake decanter. They come in all sorts of beautiful designs and can be priced really reasonably. We bought a really beautiful one for less than $10 USD.

28. Enjoy Yakitori & beer surrounded by locals

One of our favorite things about traveling is getting out of the tourist zone and brush shoulders with locals. And in Tokyo, you don’t have to go far for that, because ummm, there are people  everywhere  so you’ll be brushing a lotta shoulders!

Popping into one of the city’s thousands of  izakayas , or small pubs, is one of the best ways to soak in the local vibes. And you’ve probably already guessed that we have a recommendation just for you…

Located in a tunnel underneath the railroad tracks just outside Tokyo Station,  Yakitori Ton Ton  has an atmosphere that is hard to rival.  

On the week nights, this place is packed with salarymen letting loose with a beer and snacks after a long day at the office. (We’re pretty sure we witnessed a business deal go down across the table from us.) And smoke fills the tunnel as skewers of meats and veggies are grilled over charcoal. 

After getting some recommendations from the (very) drunk salarymen across the table from us, we ordered a couple drinks — a beer for Ben and a chuhai for Katie (my favorite summertime Japanese drink!) — edamame, veggie and meat skewers.

Just so you know what to expect:

• Lots of local businessmen (and some women) grabbing beer and yakitori after work
• Crowded and smoky
• reasonable prices
• simple menu of drinks and veggie & meat skewers
• Communal type seating for the most part
• Few foreigners (we were the only ones when we visited)
• While we didn’t encounter this, we’ve read about Westerners who have been turned down during busy times

Good to know:  There are plenty of other cool izakayas around the city (and country!), so if this one is out of the way for you, no worries.

29. Grill your own Wagyu

(Psst! Vegetarians, you can skip this tip because the next one is for you!)

Japan is known for its high-quality  wagyu,  or beef.  But if you’re traveling on a budget, it can be difficult to find any wagyu that doesn’t empty out your wallet (especially in Tokyo). 

Don’t worry, we’ve done the legwork for you and found a place that serves a variety of cuts and grades of beef and is reasonably priced. Oh, and you’re able to cook your own meat on a personal grill and season it to your liking. 

Good to know:  The word  wagyu  actually refers to all Japanese beef cattle (“wa” means  Japanese  and “gyu” translates to  cow ), so it’s not really that specific. 

Located in the Akihabara neighborhood,  Jiromaru Akihabara , is a small,  no-frills restaurant inside which there are no seats, which means you’ll be standing at the “meat bar”… if you can call it that. In front if you is a personal grill, on which you can – you guessed it –  grill  your own cuts of meat to what you deem perfection (but please don’t overcook it!).

There are also sauces and seasoning if your tastebuds desire. But we recommend first trying it with just a bit of salt. 

*Cue me drooling on my keyboard as I type this.*

So what should you order?  It can be a little confusing when ordering, but fear not, the staff speak some English, so they can help if you need it. 

You can order individual pieces of meat, which cost between 250 – 300 yen each. But it can be a little confusing choosing which cuts to get. 

We’d suggest getting the “sampler” where they give you 5 small pieces of their recommended cuts.  The last piece they give you is an A5 grade wagyu (the highest grade), and lemme tell ya, it was by far the best. Wow. I’m not even a huge red meat eater, and I could dream about that stuff.

You can certainly just order this cut exclusively, but the “sampler” will allow you to truly taste the difference and see why the A5 is so good.

We’ve also heard their raw beef “sushi” is excellent, so give that a try if that’s your thing!

In addition to having a variety of meats, grades and cuts, there are also vegetables which you can order à la carte.  We loved the shiitake mushroom (yasss!), shisito peppers, and spring onion.  And you can get a bowl of rice to round out that meal!

Cost:  We paid 4,000 yen for our two wagyu “samplers”, veggies, and one beer, which works out to be $18.88 USD per person.

Insider Tip:  While I assume this tiny 15-person “restaurant” can get packed and draw a line, we got in right away when we showed up around 2:30pm after the lunch crowds. We’d recommend trying to go before or after typical lunch/dinner hours if possible. 

30. Find vegetarian Japanese food

Recommended by:  Victoria from  Bridges and Balloons

One of the most memorable parts of Tokyo for me was the food. I wasn’t sure that Japan would be a particularly good place for vegetarians, especially those who don’t eat fish, but we actually ate incredibly well there and Tokyo was particularly easy as a veggie.

A good budget option is to keep an eye out for one of the many curry shops, which nearly always have a vegetarian option.

Some of my other favorites were a tofu restaurant in Shibuya called Tofu Ryori Sorano (where they make fresh tofu at your table); Komaki Shokudo, a little restaurant where you can try traditional Japanese temple food; and Itasobakaoriya (板蕎麦 香り家), a soba restaurant in trendy Ebisu. These are all great options even if you’re not vegetarian.

Bonus tip for vegetarians traveling in Japan:  Try searching on Happy Cow to find a really comprehensive list of all the vegan and  vegetarian restaurants in Tokyo !

31. Explore Tokyo’s craft beer scene

Calling all our fellow craft beer snobs! 

I hate to say it, but my love for craft beer has made it very difficult for me to appreciate a regular ol’ light beer. So these days, I reserve my beer calorie budget for the good stuff. The craft stuff.

In the past, craft beer has been expensive and hard to find in Japan, as well as much of Asia. However, this is starting to change (albeit slowly). 

Tokyo has some great craft beer options, and I’m sure this scene will only grow.

Here are some good places for craft beer in Tokyo:

• Spring Valley Brewery : large, beautiful facility with a decent selection of beers and food, albeit sub-par service (in our experience) 
• Coaster Craft Beer & Burger : good choice if you want a burger with your brew 
• TAPTIME : quaint bar with fantastic selection of Japanese craft beers
• BathHaus : part bathhouse, part craft beer bar. Sounds strange, but they earn rave reviews!
• Far Yeast : higher-end vibes and a decent selection of beers and snacks
• Ebisu : one of the largest selections of craft beer (40+ taps), mostly Japanese brews

32. Have drinks at Park Hyatt New York Bar

Recommended by:  Julianne from  It’s Five O’Clock Here

Yes, the Park Hyatt Tokyo and its New York Bar will be forever linked to Sofia Coppola’s 2003 film, “Lost in Translation.” The iconic hotel bar may have looked stunning in Coppola’s film, but is it  really  worth a detour in your precious Tokyo itinerary?

The answer, it turns out, is absolutely.  Located on the 52nd floor of the Park Hyatt Tokyo, finding your way up to New York Bar is actually half of the fun. The Park Hyatt Tokyo comprises the top 14 floors of the Shinjuku Park Tower (floors 39 to 52), and you’ll have to take not one, but  two  elevator rides up to this swanky bar.

Once you’re in, though, you’re in for a treat. New York Bar’s drinks menu covers a lot of ground: there’s a stellar selection of scotch and Japanese whisky, wines (the list is truly dizzying and odds are you’ll find something to suit your palette), and, of course, cocktails.  Be sure to try the Café-Tini  – a much better version of the traditional espresso martini.

With those mesmerizing floor-to-ceiling views, we really can’t fault anyone who wants to spend hours here listening to live music and taking in the gorgeous Tokyo skyline.

So go ahead, pretend you’re Scarlett Johansson sipping on cocktails with Bill Murray. We won’t judge.

33. Spot quirky vending machines

Japan is known for efficiency, so it comes as no surprise that their vending machine game is unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

With so many people in Tokyo, vending machines are often the quickest (and most efficient) way to get things that they would otherwise have to wait a few minutes for.

No more standing in line at the supermarket: get your sports drink in a matter of seconds from a vending machine. And no need to sit down at a restaurant and wait to be served. Get your hamburger on the go from a vending machine, of course!

While wandering through the streets of Tokyo, take note of the strange vending machines you spot: sushi-printed socks, anyone?!

34. Have sushi for breakfast at Toyosu Fish Market

Tsukiji Fish Market has long been a Tokyo staple, but sadly it stopped doing the famous tuna auction back in October 2018. The brand new Toyosu Fish Market is now where the early morning tuna auction happens.

There are still many sushi shops around Tsukiji, but some of the famous sushi shops, like Sushi Dai and Daiwa Sushi, have opened locations at the new market.

Tip: Arrive as early as you can, because this is when the market is most lively. Sushi for breakfast is a thing here!

One of the most intriguing experiences one could have at Tsukiji was to come early, at 5 a.m. to watch the live tuna auctions take place.

Instead of being right next to the action as the day’s freshest catch was being sold, visitors can now only experience this from a second-floor observation deck at Toyosu. However, it is still an experience worthy of your  Japan bucket list .

Toyosu is modern and beautiful, albeit lacking the character and charm (some may say chaos!) of Tsukiji. You can still get a feel for what Tsukiji used to be by visiting its outer market and compare it to its more refined replacement.

Tip for sushi lovers:  Another fun food experience in Tokyo is to go to a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Pick and choose items as they come past you, and pay per piece.

35. Photograph the tiny alleys in Memory Lane (aka “Piss Alley”)

While Tokyo is undeniably modern, there are still small alleyways that are reminders of the past. Tiny bars and restaurants are packed in beside one another and have remained more or less the same since they popped up right after WWII.

These traditional-style alleyways, called  yokocho , are sprinkled throughout the city.  One of the more popular is known as “piss alley” because in 1999, a fire ravaged the area leaving it toilet-less. And we can all deduce how the nickname stuck…

Don’t worry, there are toilets there today as well as little eateries serving up tasty noodle bowls and  yakitori  (meat skewers). And if you’re feeling adventurous, Piss Alley is a great place to try something out of the ordinary, like grilled salamander, frog sashimi and pig testicles.

36. Make a toast in Golden Gai

Similar to Memory Lane (aka Piss Alley), Golden Gai is a maze of narrow streets, but instead of eateries, this is where you’ll head to get a drink!

Located in Shinjuku, Golden Gai is home to some 270 drinking establishments, most of them so tiny that fitting 10 people inside is tricky.  This charming network of alleyways is popular with locals as well as tourists.

Some bars only allow locals inside, and upon entering you will be told there is no room (even if you see an empty seat). Avoid the embarrassment and choose a bar that has signs outside with some English text, or head to Albatross, a favorite amongst foreigners. We also popped into a Anime bar with an energetic bartender.

Our favorite tiny bar in Golden Gai was one called Not Suspicious bar  (seriously, that is the name of it). This one row bar has probably 100,000+ post-it notes with various phrases from previous patrons posted on its walls. The people we met inside really made the atmosphere great and the drinks were good too!

While in Golden Gai, don’t expect to bar hop if you’re on a budget, as some of the establishments charge a cover fee that’s far from cheap ($12 is said to be average for this area).

Insider Tip:  If you’re looking for a less touristy alleyways to wander, try Drunkard’s Alley near Shibuya Crossing or Hamonika Yokocho in Kichijoji.

37. Try black sesame ice cream at Gomaya Kuki

I’m not one for Japan’s obsession with cutesy, trendy treats that cost $10 and look much better than they taste. Feel me?

So when someone  messaged us on Instagram  and recommended we try this black sesame ice cream, I kind of wrote it off as a “fad” (like charcoal ice cream). But then another person recommended it. And another. So on our last day in Tokyo, we sought it out, and I am so upset at myself that I didn’t try it sooner!

Sesame ice cream is a bit tricky to find, and from my research,  Gomaya Kuki  seemed like one of the best places to try it.  There is only one flavor at this ice cream shop; you guessed it: Sesame. It comes in 6 different variations, based on richness and whether white or black sesame seeds were used.

This ice cream allegedly has 9,000 sesame seeds per scoop, and you know what? I  believe  that claim. The ice cream is so dense and rich that there’s no surprise 9,000 seeds were needed to create each scoop of nutty goodness.

Not too sweet, not too bitter, and almost peanut butter-y, this ice cream legit has me daydreaming about it months later.

Do yourself a favor and try it when you’re in Harajuku. And don’t blame me when you go through withdrawal and can’t find the flavor outside Japan #mycurrentstruggle

Cost:  Two flavors (one scoop each) costs ¥500. Top it off with a drizzle of sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds if you’d like.

Free or cheap things to do in Tokyo

Even though Japan is notoriously expensive, there are certainly some free and cheap things to do in this massive city.

Related Reading:  Read up on  how to travel to Japan on a Budget .

38. Take in the views from atop the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Recommended by:  Jamie from  Gajin Crew

Head to the top floor of the Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku (another one of Tokyo’s 23 districts) and experience a full 360-degree view of the city. I’m not exaggerating when I say that the city stretches further than the eye can see (in every single direction)!

This is one of the best things to do in Tokyo, and it’s totally free! While Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree are both popular tourist attractions that give you unbelievable views of the city, they both cost and are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination.

So if you’re after the ultimate picture of the vast urban landscape that is Tokyo, save yourself the cash and head to the Government building. Go up at night for the coolest views.

39. Explore Anime Heaven on Takeshita Street in Harajuku

Known as one of the most popular and busiest shopping streets in the whole of Tokyo, Takeshita street is the epicenter for the weird and wonderful side of Japanese fashion culture.

You’ll see cosplayers dressed up as some of their favorite anime characters, unicorn-flavored candy floss and enough crepes to last a lifetime. Not to mention the insane number of shops as well!

Located in Harajuku (one of Tokyo’s 23 districts), Takeshita Street is also close to the Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park (both also worth visiting) so you could easily spend up to a full day exploring all three.

40. Explore Ueno Park

This large public park in central Tokyo is known as one of the best places for viewing the cherry blossoms in Japan . 

Even if you are not visiting during the famous cherry blossom festival in the spring, there’s still plenty to discover at Ueno Park. The park has various other attractions such as the famous Ueno Zoo and Tokyo National Museum, among others. 

However, it also makes a lovely place to enjoy a picnic or a relaxing stroll. 

Related Reading: Check out this list of Tokyo festivals and see if your travel dates line up with any of the city’s celebrations!

41. Wander around Yanaka: Tokyo’s most traditional neighborhood

If you want to imagine Tokyo as it was years ago before the ultra modern buildings and posh shopping districts, you’ll want to make time to explore the neighborhood of Yanka. 

Adoringly called “Tokyo’s most traditional neighborhood,” the nickname says it all.  Yanaka was spared from much of the bombings in WWII, and thus retains a lot of charm and nostalgia that you can’t find in many other parts of the city.

Things to do in Yanaka:

• Yanaka Cemetery:  stroll through this beautiful, peaceful cemetery on a street lined with cherry blossom trees
• Take a food tour of Yanaka:  We went on a  food tour in Yanaka with Arigato Food Tours  and filled our bellies with food and our minds with fun facts about this neighborhood.
• Tennoji Temple:  here you’ll find a large statue of Buddha
• Yanaka Beer Hall:  rustic setting with craft beers makes a nice stop to rest your feet
• Shop for souvenirs on Yanaka Ginza:   Ginza , meaning “shopping street”, has many small family-run shops. We bought some beautiful ceramic bowls at a tea shop called  Kanekichien .
• Eat a rice cracker at  Yanaka Senbei :  This shop has been open for more than 100 years (est. 1913) and has changed little over time. They serve traditional rice crackers, or  senbei , and have many flavors to choose from. 
• Spot all 7 cats:  Yanaka has earned the nickname “Tokyo’s Cat Town” because of the number of stray cats that have found refuge in this place. You’ll see lots of cat souvenirs and even cat-inspired snacks. But keep an eye out for the 7 cat statues throughout the main street. It is said that if you find all 7, you will have good luck.
• Take a photo on the Yuyake-dandan steps steps:  You’ll see many Japanese people taking photos on these steps that lead from Nippori Station down into the main shopping street. This is a famous view, featured in newspapers and on many television shows.

42. Explore Daikanyama, aka Tokyo’s hippest neighborhood

Like any major city, Tokyo has tons of neighborhoods, each with a very different vibe.  In recent years, the tiny neighborhood of Daikanyama has earned a reputation as the “Brooklyn of Tokyo” for its trendy cafes, stylish boutiques, quirky cafes and bookstores.  Oh, and did I mention there’s a brewery in the area too?

I am a sucker for craft beer and bohemian vibes, so yeah, I loved Daikanyama.

Technically Daikanyama is probably not even considered its own true neighborhood, but rather a subsection of the Shibuya district. But compared to the pulsating, neon-lit center of Shibuya,  Daikanyama is much quieter, more laid back and feels like a completely different place, despite it only being a 10-minute walk away. 

Things to do in Daikanyama:

• Explore  Daikanyama T-site , a stunning bookstore
• Get your caffeine and sugar fix at one of the many cute coffee shops
• Wander into the neighborhood’s quirky boutiques, which sell everything from clothing to crystals
• Cheers with a craft beer at Spring Valley Brewery

43. Capture memories at a Japanese photo booth

Forget regular old photo booths. Just like many things, Japan does it better!

Purikura , or Japanese photo booths, are a pop culture staple that is super fun to try out on your visit to Tokyo.

Often found in arcades, there is a wide variety of  purikura  to choose from. Some even have an area to pamper yourself with hair straighteners and costumes to wear for your photo sesh.

One of the biggest differences between these photo booths and the traditional variety is you can do post-photo editing. You can smooth your skin, make your eyes bigger, add makeup, or add cutesy stickers and text.

Snapping some pictures in a  purikura  is one Japanese experience that will bring a smile to your face. Plus, it’s a perfect souvenir from your trip!

44. Stay in a capsule hotel

Recommended by:  Mehdi Fliss from  Asian Wanderlust

In the beginning, these capsule hotels were made for salarymen (expression used for hard workers in Japan) who wanted to work late at their offices in Tokyo. The metro stops at around 1:00 a.m. so instead of taking a taxi to their home, many office workers started to sleep in a capsule for few hours and get back early to work the next day.

But today, the concept has changed a bit and this type of accommodation is now used by a wide range of people, including tourists. I personally like minimalism, so sleeping a capsule was pretty interesting. They are also comfortable and you can also find nice public baths in the capsule hotel.

It’s a great value for money, so it is a good option for people traveling to Tokyo on a budget. However, if you are a bit claustrophobic, you might want to stay away from this type of hotel!

Note:  Capsule Hotels are typically gender seperated.

Best Capsule Hotels in Tokyo

9 Hours in Shinjuku-North : Well located and very clean, this highly rated capsule hotel can house over 206 visitors per night.

First Cabin Kyobashi : Where capsule and luxury meet! You’ll be wow-ed by these large capsule cabins. Well located, clean and excellent service.

One more thing to do before you go…

Even if you’re on your way home, you can still have one last Japanese experience!

45. Souvenir Shopping at Edo Market & Tokyo Pop Town

Recommended by:  Tiffy from  Asiatravelbug

Shopping at Haneda Airport (Tokyo’s International Airport) is something I always look forward to whenever I’m in Tokyo. The price of souvenirs and restaurants inside the airport are very reasonable, and not inflated like airports in many other countries. 

The Edo Market, located on the 4th floor of Haneda Airport before immigration, is a great place to have a memorable Japanese meal and do last-minute souvenir shopping before your flight. I discovered this place by chance when I arrived at the airport earlier and it’s such a wonderful find!

Arriving at Edo Market felt like being transported back to Asakusa in Tokyo. There are a multitude of restaurants to choose from. If you are looking for a reasonably-priced yet high-quality sukiyaki meal, I recommend Takafuku.

After a hearty meal, head one level up to Tokyo Pop Town where you can find Soradonki, a branch of Don Quixote – the most famous bargain shop in Japan. While prices of souvenirs after the airport’s immigration are very reasonable, souvenirs at the Soradonki shop are even cheaper!

Once you are done with your sayonara meal and last-minute shopping, head over to the top floor observation deck where you can have a close up view of the planes landing and departing at Haneda International Airport.

Bonus Tip: Cut your airport transfer time in half by picking Haneda International Airport instead of Narita when you book your flight to Tokyo. Haneda is much closer to downtown Tokyo than Narita.

How many days do you need in Tokyo?

The number of days you need in Tokyo depends on your travel preferences, interests, and the pace at which you like to explore. 

If you’re more interested in exploring Japan’s diverse nature outside of the city, you may find that 3 days in Tokyo is enough to get your palette wet. However, for a well-rounded experience of Tokyo, we’d suggest spending 5 to 7 days in the city. 

Here are some general guidelines:

• 3-4 days: Get a taste exploring Tokyo’s iconic neighborhoods like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Asakusa. Visit historic sites like Senso-ji Temple, Meiji Shrine, and the Imperial Palace. And dive into Tokyo’s shopping districts and entertainment hubs.
• 5-7 days: More time for exploring the city. Allocate 1 to 2 days for day trips to nearby destinations such as Nikko, Hakone (and Mount Fuji !), or Yokohama, each offering unique experiences.
• 1 week or more: If you have specific interests like anime, technology, or traditional arts, you might want to allocate additional time to explore districts like Akihabara, Odaiba, or attend cultural experiences.

Tokyo is really one of those destinations you can visit year-round and you’ll have a good experience no matter what season.

That being said, there are some things to consider when planning your trip to Tokyo. We go into detail in our best time to visit Tokyo guide, but here’s the gist:

The spring and summer time are considered peak tourism season in Japan. The cherry blossom festival is celebrated throughout the country during springtime and you’ll have to book your accommodation further in advance to guarantee a place to stay.

Summer in Tokyo gets hot. Like really hot. And with the summer heat comes humidity, which isn’t always ideal, depending on what kinds of activities you plan to do in Tokyo.

Our recommended time to visit Tokyo would be in the fall, when the leaves are turning and the heat and humidity let up a bit.

Winter is also a special time to visit Japan and there are plenty of benefits to visiting Tokyo during low season.

The ideal time to visit largely depends on your interests, preferences, and itinerary. We have a full breakdown of each season, plus pros and cons in our guide to the  best time to visit Japan .

The trains and metros in Japan are some of the cleanest and most efficient in the world, and the rail system covers almost the entire country making it a very efficient way to get around. However, transportation is one of the biggest expenses to factor into your  Japan travel budget . 

There are two major companies that operate the subway system in Tokyo: Toei and Tokyo Metro . The Tokyo Metro has 9 different subway lines, where the Toei only has 4 lines. You can get to all the major spots on the Tokyo Metro lines.

If you plan to spread out your days in Tokyo, here is a tip from Anne from  Pretraveller :

“To most easily get around Tokyo we recommend that you purchase either a Suica or Pasmo tap on tap off public transport card – you get a starting amount of credit and then just top it up as you need at most train stations. These transport cards can be used for all public transport within Tokyo, and also within most other cities within Japan.”

Good to know:  You can get refunded for any money remaining on your card that you have not spent (as well as the required 500 yen deposit). You can find refund counters at major train stations, or you can spend this money at 7-Eleven and other convenience stores.

If you plan on doing quite a bit of exploring in a day, another cost-effective option is to purchase the Tokyo Metro 1-Day Pass. The 1-day pass only costs 600 yen ($5.34 USD) and you can purchase it at any ticket vending machine. 

You should only get the Toei 24-hour pass if you’re hotel is only by a Toei station. For 700 yen, you get access to Toei subways and buses.

Tokyo Metro

The Tokyo metro system is pretty incredible and trains come very frequently. It makes it easy to explore all parts of the city no matter where you are staying. 

However, it can be overwhelming to navigate on your first visit. Here are a few tips and things to know:

• If you plug in locations to Google Maps , the app will tell you very detailed instructions, including which train line to take, the correct exit, and even which car of the train. 
• Pay attention to which exit you’re taking out of the subway. If you take the wrong one, you may end up very far from your intended destination. Refer to Google Maps to find the correct exit.
• Get a virtual Pasmo or Suica card and load the money directly onto your phone. This way, you just have to tap your phone to be let into the subway and you won’t have to purchase tickets each time or use cash. 
• Even though the metro system connects the city well, getting from one side of Tokyo to the other can take a long time . For this reason, we recommend being efficient when you plan your Tokyo itinerary and breaking down your days by neighborhood so you’re not trekking back and forth across the city.
• The trains get very full during rush hours in the morning and evening. Be prepared for cars that are packed like sardines.

People are very quiet on the trains . I’ve never been around so many people with so little noise. Try your best to be quiet.

Insider Tip:  The Tokyo metro system can look quite confusing at first glance. Just take a look at that spaghetti-like map above! But if you download the app, Japan Travel by Navitime , you will be saved a HUGE headache. It is literally a lifesaver for navigating all transportation in Japan.

The Greater Tokyo Pass

An alternative would be to purchase the Greater Tokyo Pass , a 3- or 5-day pass that grants purchasers unlimited rides on railways, trams and ordinary fixed-route buses around the Tokyo metro area and surrounding suburbs.

The cost of the 5-day pass is 7,200 yen (~$53 USD) for adults, or 6,000 yen (~$44 USD) for the 3-day pass.

You can do your own research into the valid lines included on the pass to see if purchasing one will save you money depending on which things to do in Tokyo you want to cover on your trip.

What about the Japan Rail Pass?

Does it make sense to purchase the JR Pass for your visit to Tokyo?

Here’s the simple answer to your question:

• If you are staying only in Tokyo: NO
• If you will be traveling to at least 2 more places in Japan: YES

Read more about  how much money the Japan Rail pass will save you  and find out how to get it. We have a whole guide and are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Here are our top tips for visiting Tokyo, Japan to make the most out of your stay. 

• Master public transportation. Tokyo has an efficient and extensive public transportation system, including trains and buses. If you can master this system, getting around Tokyo will be easy!
• Respect local customs and etiquette. Japanese culture places a high value on manners and etiquette. It’s a good idea to read up on some Japanese manners before your trip so you don’t embarrass yourself or offend someone. 
• Learn some key phrases , but don’t worry too much about the language barrier. It is always respectful and recommended that you learn a few helpful words or phrases in the country you’re visiting, but we want to point out that it is possible to have a fantastic trip to Japan without having mastered the language.
• If you’re a tech or anime enthusiast, districts like Akihabara are a must-visit to immerse yourself in the latest gadgets, anime, and manga culture.
• Dive into Tokyo’s food scene by trying local specialties like sushi, ramen, tempura, and izakaya-style dining. Don’t hesitate to explore smaller eateries for an authentic culinary experience.
• Plan for day trips . Tokyo serves as a great hub for day trips. Consider exploring nearby destinations like Nikko, Hakone (and Mount Fuji !), or Yokohama for diverse experiences.
• Stay connected. We have a complete guide to renting a pocket Wi-Fi or getting a SIM card —both of which are practical ways to stay connected during your trip. Having internet access is valuable for navigation and translation while in Tokyo. 
• Download these apps before your trip.

Before we get into it, we want to warn you… Coming up with restaurant recommendations for Tokyo is hard to do. This city is absolutely massive, there are amazing restaurants all over the place and new restaurants keep opening up all the time. 

Tokyo truly is a foodie city and you can easily find incredible food just walking down the street and popping into somewhere local. 

But if you want some recommendations, below is a list of places we’ve personally eaten at and loved. It also includes some well-known hot spots most people include in their Tokyo itinerary. 

Our top recommendation is to plan out where you want to spend your days in Tokyo first, and then you can plan out where you want to eat based on where you’ll be. In other words, choose restaurants that are in the neighborhood you’re already exploring to cut down on time spent on transportation. 

Other things to know about eating in Tokyo

• Tip: Matsuya is a popular Japanese fast food chain that is open early in the morning (popular with locals)
• Many restaurants in Tokyo require reservations. Book early if you have places you really want to go to.
• Popular restaurants that don’t offer reservations often have long waits especially during peak mealtimes. Factor this into your day.
• Some izakayas and bars have a “seat charge”, called otoshi. This can range from ¥300-1,000, and sometimes includes a small “complementary” dish.
• Some restaurants (ramen shops in particular) will have a machine where you order and pay on.

Tokyo Station

• Insider Tip: If you don’t have time, you can get takeaway (we did, and ate it on the rooftop of nearby Tokyo Station). There are signs that say you can skip the line if you want takeaway. Go inside, place your order and it will be ready in about 5 minutes.
• We highly recommend the matcha pudding with black sugar syrup & ice cream!
• Yakitori Ton Ton : We loved this izakaya packed with locals under the railroad

Akihabara Station

• Our recommendation: get the sampler & grill it yourself
• Vegan Bistro Jangara : amazing vegan ramen even meat eaters will love in Harajuku
• Gyukatsu Motomura : incredible tonkatsu restaurant where you cook the meat yourself, expect to wait 1 hour (the link is the Harajuku location but they have more locations in Akihabara and Asakusa)
• Gonpachi : large venue designed to look like historic Japanese architecture , serving traditional Japanese dishes makes a great pick for the start of your trip [ make a reservation ]
• oh my DOT : Unique concept where you make your own ramen. A quick and cheap meal in Shibuya.
• Uobei : reasonably-priced conveyor belt sushi in Shibuya

Tokyo Midtown

• GYOPAO Gyoza Roppongi : lively Japanese-Taiwanese fusion izakaya known for their signature soup dumplings . [ make a reservation ]
• Iruca Tokyo Roppongi : If you don’t mind waiting in line, this Michelin rated ramen shop is known for soy sauce ramen that features truffles.
• Try the wagyu cutlet sandwich
• Uogashi Nihon-Ichi (Standing Sushi Bar : 
• Kani Douraku crab restaurant
• Nikuya no Daidokoro all you can eat meat (make reservations)
• Kumachan Onsen : Teddy bear hot pot — definitely a photo spot with less focus on food (make reservations)
• Ichiran Ramen Shinjuku
• Ichiran Shibuya
• Ichiran Asakusa
• CoCo Ichibanya: Japanese curry chain all over the city and country
• Matsuya: Popular spot for locals to get Japanese-style breakfast with locations all over the city. They have a set menu with reasonable prices.

Dining experiences in Tokyo 

• Check out the Izakayas in Omoide Yokocho
• Maguroya Kurogin stand famous for tuna belly
• Go for street food in Asakusa
• Another casual and quick option is to head up to Tokyo Station . Go to the underground inside the station for a ton of restaurants to choose from. There are lots of great ramen shops, gyoza, and more!

In short, if it is your first time visiting Tokyo, Shibuya and Shinjuku will be good choices. Both are near many big attractions and have lots of hotels to choose from.

If you want more details and hotel recommendations, we have an entire guide to the best neighborhoods to stay in Tokyo , including insider tips and things to do in each.

What to pack for traveling to Tokyo

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating these super helpful guides full of  packing hacks and tips for traveling in Japan  that you won’t find anywhere else:

• Our  Japan packing guide  lists all the essentials (many of which you might not think about), as well as what you should NOT pack for a trip to Japan.
• This article on  what to wear in Japan  will help you create a perfect capsule wardrobe for every season and let you in on some cultural taboos so you can be sure to dress appropriately.
• With this  FREE Japan packing list PDF download , we’ll send checklists straight to your inbox for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to what shoes to pack and extra stuff you may want to have on-hand just in case. Click the image below to get your free copy!

Round up of the best things to do in Tokyo

Here’s a recap of all the best things to do in Tokyo so you can see everything in one place.

• Shibuya Crossing
• Tokyo food tour
• TeamLAB Planets
• Sumo wrestling match
• Free walking tour
• Tokyo Skytree
• Drive a real life Mario Kart
• Themed restaurants
• Japanese baseball game
• Tokyo Disneyland
• Soak in an Onsen
• Rent a Karaoke Room
• Kappabashi Street
• Ghibli Museum
• Cat Cafe MoCHA
• Traditional tea ceremony
• Tokyo Imperial Palace
• Kabuki Show
• Kamakura Buddha
• Meiji Shrine
• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
• See the famous red lantern at Sensoji Temple
• Tokyo National Museum
• Japanese cooking class
• Eat ALL the ramen
• Yakitori & beer
• Grill your own Wagyu
• Vegetarian Japanese food
• Tokyo’s craft beer scene
• New York Bar
• Vending machines
• Toyosu Fish Market
• Memory Lane
• Black Sesame ice cream
• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
• Takeshita Street in Harajuku
• Japanese photo booth
• Capsule hotel
• Edo Market & Tokyo Pop Town

More resources for traveling in Japan

We have TONS of resources on travel in Japan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Japan Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below!

• Best Time to Visit Japan: When to Go & When to Avoid
• Japan Rail Pass: Where to Buy & Is It Worthwhile?
• Renting a Car in Japan: Essential Driving Tips You Need to Know!
• One Week in Japan: Best Itinerary for Your First Visit
• Foods to Eat in Japan: Guide to Japanese Cuisine

Save this article on Pinterest for later!

We want to hear from you!

Which of these things to do in Tokyo is going straight to the top of your bucket list? Are you planning a trip to Tokyo and have more questions? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Comments (70) on “ 45 Best Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan ”

Thank you for this wonderful writeup. I have certainly not been in Tokyo but I think it would be a lovely place to visit. My only fear has always been the challenge of Language. Being an English speaking tourist wouldn’t the cultural and Language differences affect my adventure?

Nice post… This is such an amazing place. I have never been to this place. It would be a good guide for us.

Osm article lage raho bhai

wow this is really nice . am from southern India and have been thinking about visiting Japan but not sure about the cultural differences , I did see many vlogs by Indians so i guess its cool to go on a tourist visa

I like the information you included in this post. Japan is a place on my bucket list and I would like to go there. So, I am trying to learn more about this place.

Kappabashi Street (Kitchen Town) is great. I’ve been spending a lot of time there recently. If you want a good knife for cooking, it is THE place to go. And there are even shops that sell replica food models like the ones you see in the windows of Japanese restaurants.

I came across your blog while I am starting to plan my trip to Tokyo next year. I was curious though how did you all get your international driving permit for the Mario cart drive. I want to do this but I read on there website you had to have a international driving permit in order to this.

AS far as I know AAA can sign you up for a International Driving permit. Not a lot to do but ask and sign up. (May be old info as I had one in the 90s!)

“Absolutely love this! Engaging content that left me wanting more.”

Wow, what a fantastic blog post! Your clear explanation of the importance of engaging content and its impact on audience connection really resonated with me.

Wow! fantastic! Tokyo is such an interesting city one should not miss out to visit during his or her time in Japan.

How many interesting activities can i do in Tokyo?

Very well presented.

Wow! impressive! So tokyo is such a nice place to live with teamlab borderless being what I have loved about the place. Thanks!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

CENTRAL TOKYO TOUR – 12K

This tour will take you on a scenic run around Tokyo’s famous Imperial Palace, an iconic landmark and the heart of the city’s sightseeing attractions. Additionally, we will explore the historically significant Yasukuni Shrine and Hie Shrine. This tour provides a unique opportunity to witness the stunning architecture and rich history of Tokyo’s most iconic buildings.   ※The guide will change the route according to your request.

Times are in UTC

• Choose a date above to see available times.

• Trip details

Related tours

Central tokyo tour - 12k.

This tour will take you on a scenic run around Tokyo's famous Imperial Palace, an iconic landmark and the heart of the city's sightseeing attractions. Additionally, we will explore the historically significant Yasukuni Shrine and Hie Shrine. This tour provides a unique opportunity to witness the stunning architecture and rich history of Tokyo's most iconic buildings.   ※The guide will change the route according to your request.

Runner on the ground - HIDEHITO

10 years of running

We run around the Imperial Palace, which is located in the center of Tokyo, Japan. The Imperial Palace is the residence of His Majesty the Emperor, and is a very sacred place for Japanese people. This tour will not take you inside (because you need to apply in advance), but we will run along the promenade around the Imperial Palace, which is about 5km long. Courses that allow you to run 5km without waiting for a traffic light are extremely rare in Tokyo, so the promenade around the Imperial Palace is like a running mecca for runners in Tokyo.

The area around the Imperial Palace is exactly the center of Japan, so there are large commercial facilities, government offices, the National Diet Building, and the prime minister’s official residence.

Tokyo Station, the gateway to Tokyo, is also in front of the Imperial Palace. The brick building of Tokyo Station is very beautiful, so we recommend taking a picture in front of it.

In this tour, we will run not only around the Imperial Palace but also a route that deviates a little from there. Because Yasukuni Shrine, one of the largest shrines in Japan, is nearby. Yasukuni Shrine enshrines the souls of the soldiers who died in the Pacific War, and many people visit the shrine every year on the anniversary of the end of the war. For that reason, it is also a politically controversial place in Asia, but visiting such a place itself will be a memory.

The area around Yasukuni Shrine is also famous for its cherry blossoms. If you visit this place in spring, you may be able to see very beautiful cherry blossoms. By the way, Japan has a culture of cherry blossom viewing (Ohanami), and everyone enjoys picnics at cherry blossom viewing spots during the cherry blossom season. Cherry blossoms can be said to be a symbol of peaceful Japan.

On this tour, we will visit another shrine. It is Hie Shrine. It’s not as big as Yasukuni Shrine, but it’s famous for its bright red Senbon Torii gates. Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto is famous for Senbon Torii, but even if you can’t go there, you can see a similar Senbon Torii at Hie Shrine in Tokyo.

Finally, the Imperial Palace was built by renovating Edo Castle, so it used to be the residence of the samurai boss Shogun. Therefore, you can see many traditional Japanese buildings on this tour. In particular, you will pass through a gate called Sakuradamon in the middle of the running course, and I think this is the most exciting place on the Imperial Palace run course.

Facts about the tours

Private tour

English, Japanese

Hotel pick-up or Standard Meeting Point

1 person € 88.00 /person

2 persons € 66.00 /person

3 persons € 60.50 /person

4-20 persons € 49.50 /person

JAPAN , PRIVATE RUNNING TOUR , SIGHTSEEING RUN , TOKYO

HANOI , PRIVATE RUNNING TOUR , SIGHTSEEING RUN

Share your thoughts!

5 out of 5 stars, let us know what you think..., leave a review.

Title  (optional)

Review  *

Enter a URL  (optional)

Choose a file

Name  *

Email  *

Save Review

Show everything Show all reviews Show helpful positive reviews Show helpful negative reviews Show unanswered questions

What others are saying

Rated 5 out of 5 Amazing Run Experience

Rebecca Cozens – December 18, 2023

Our family had the most fabulous time with Hidehito on a 14km tour of central Tokyo. He was fun, informative and paced the run well. He even helped us to arrange a hire bike for our 12 year old so he could be part of the experience. He also took some great photos! We would run with him again any time!

Upvote if this was helpful ( 0 ) Downvote if this was not helpful ( 0 ) Watch Unwatch Flag for removal

Something wrong with this post? Thanks for letting us know. If you can point us in the right direction...

This post was...

Flag for removal

Rated 5 out of 5 Fantastic way to see Tokyo

Jo Lockhart – October 13, 2023

I’ve been lucky enough to have done several running tours in different cities around the world now, and rate this one in Tokyo with Hidehito as one of the best! All communications beforehand were excellent, and he met me in my hotel’s reception right on time. I loved the route he had planned out, a mix of old and new Tokyo, and learning about the city from him as we ran. The highlight for me was running around the Imperial Palace Gardens, as well as chatting about running 🙂 Arigatou gozaimasu Hidehito!

Rated 5 out of 5

Jakub – August 27, 2023

What a great running experience! Hidehito has been the best running guide one could wish for. He was available in advance to discuss the plans for the run and the exact route. He then met me at my hotel reception right on time and guided me through many fascinating neighbourhoods in Tokyo, providing a great mix of the modern and the traditional. I also enjoyed our chat about the history of Japan – Hidehito is very knowledgeable and learning from him during the run was a nice unexpected bonus. Arigato gozaimasu!

Rated 5 out of 5 Get to Know Tokyo...

Kevin Kalb – August 19, 2023

I booked my two runs a few months in advance and as the time came near I realized the weather forecast was very hot and sunny (37C/100F). I knew it would be a challenge and I did my best but I just wasn’t acclimated to it. (It would take some time for that.) Hidehito was able to modify the run on the fly to deliver a shorter but equally interesting set of runs. Despite the challenge posed by the warm weather, I booked an additional (third) tour. Tokyo has many cultural and artistic treasures, and Hidehito knows his way around. He is a knowledgeable runner, a skillful guide, and a great running partner. I recommend him for all types of runners and distances.

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Continue as a Guest

Email address *

Hey - its a cookie thing 🍪

Privacy overview.

• TRAVEL Where to Go When to Go What to Do Tips and Advice Where to Stay
• CULTURE Sports Arts & Entertainment Traditions Cultural Tips History
• FOOD & DRINKS Where to Eat Bars and Brewery Regional Specialty
• SPECIAL EVENTS Festivals Shows & Concerts Tournaments & Competitions Exhibits
• ANIME Anime Spots Anime Events Recommendations Anime Tours
• LUXURY Experiences Luxury Accommodations Dining Luxury Tours

IF YOU LOVE JAPAN OTAKU CULTURE, YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT THESE TOP PLACES TO GO IN TOKYO FOR ANIME FANS!

Otaku culture in Japan is more than just the stores outside of Akihabara Station! All around the city, you can find museums, bookstores, and even entire neighborhoods that celebrate Japanese manga and anime! Here’s our guide to the best places to shop, explore, and learn about your favorite movies and shows!

ANIME MUSEUMS

Ghibli museum.

Suginami Animation Museum

Toei Animation Museum

Nerima City is the birthplace of Japanese animation. At Oizumi-Gakuen Station, you’ll see statues of characters from classic shows like Astro Boy and Tomorrow’s Joe . A short walk from here is the Toei Oizumi Animation Studio, the masterminds behind Dragonball , Sailor Moon , and One Piece . The studio opened a museum in 2018, where you’ll see precious Toei-related materials, including storyboards and celluloid pictures. The centerpiece of the museum is a panel with icons from shows and films stretching back sixty years. Tapping them brings up information about a particular series and sometimes video clips. In other parts of the museum, you can take pictures with life-size statues and cutouts of your favorite characters. The courtyard also has blackboards that invite you to draw pictures before you leave to explore the rest of Tokyo !

ANIME DISTRICTS IN TOKYO

If you want to venture off the well-beaten paths and into the “real” Tokyo, head to the Nakano neighborhood. North of the station, you’ll find the Sun Mall, which is a 225 meter-long shopping arcade. The main stretch passes boutiques, game centers, and small restaurants, and end at the Nakano Broadway shopping complex. The ground floor specializes in second-hand shops selling clothes, shoes, and unique knick-knacks. The second and third floors have anime and idol-related stores under the Mandarake franchise. In addition to anime DVDs and manga, you can also pick up figurines, video games, consoles, and trading cards. When you leave, don’t forget to check out the tiny sidestreets of the Sun Mall, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants, izakayas, and snack bars.

BEST PLACES TO BUY MANGA

You can buy manga in just about every bookstore in Japan, but if you’re looking for English versions, you’ll need patience and perseverance. Manga in Japan hardly ever gets printed in English, and most translated versions come out of North American publishing companies. However, it isn’t impossible to find it! If you love hunting, here are some locations worth checking out if you want titles in English.

Kinokuniya Takashimaya Shinjuku

Mandarake in nakano broadway, book off in akihabara.

Similar to Mandarake, Book Off also specializes in second-hand goods. Book Off is part of the “Off” store chain, which includes Mode Off for clothes and Hard Off for electronics. What you can get at Book Off will depend on when and where you go, but you’re most likely to find what you’re looking for at the Akihabara store. How many and which titles in English you’ll find are up to Lady Luck. However, the Akihabara neighborhood caters to the highest number of otaku tourists and expats in Japan. If nothing in the comic book section grabs your attention, check out the video games and figurines as well!

REAL-LIFE ANIME LOCATIONS IN TOKYO

Sailor moon.

Kimetsu no Yaiba

Steins;Gate

The Boy and the Beast

Digimon Adventure

When the Digidestined are on Earth, there are a lot of different places featured around the city, but most of them are in Odaiba. When you arrive on the island, you’ll easily spot the Ferris Wheel, Rainbow Bridge, and the Telecom Center, which all appeared in the background throughout the show. There are also some real-world locations where decisive moments in the plot took place. Tokyo Big Sight is where Vamdemon held Odaiba’s residents captive during his search for the eighth child. It’s also where the AnimeJapan convention takes place in March . Near here, the iconic Fuji TV building is where the last fight with Myotismon took place.

WHERE TO BUY ANIME MERCH FROM YOUR FAVORITE SERIES

Pokemon centers.

Pokemon Center TOKYO DX & Pokemon Cafe

Pokemon center mega tokyo & pikachu sweets, pokemon center shibuya, pokemon center skytree town, pokemon center tokyo-bay, sanrio stores.

Hello Kitty Japan DiverCity Tokyo Plaza

Hello kitty japan tokyo skytree town solamachi, sanrioworld ginza, sanrio gift gate adhoc shinjuku, sanrio gift gate ikebukuro store, sailor moon store, one piece - mugiwara in shibuya.

Ghibli - Donguri Kyowakoku in Tokyo SkyTree

Gundam Base in DiverCity

Evangelion - P’Parco in Ikebukuro

Whether you’re a casual or a diehard anime fan, there’s no doubt you’ve come across Evangelion. Despite it being such a big hit, there’s only one official shop in Japan. You can find the Evangelion shop inside of the P’Parco department store in Ikebukuro. The items range from subtle keychains to full-on NERV logos. You can find t-shirts featuring eye-catching and detailed designs that feature Tokyo-III’s scenery. Or, get some school supplies with images of the pilots. There are also umbrellas, backpacks, and pillows that have the same color schemes as the units!

BEST ANIME SHOPS IN TOKYO

Gamers in Akihabara

Kotobukiya in akihabara, surugaya shop in ikebukuro, k-books in ikebukuro, jump shop in tokyo skytree, animate in ikebukuro, radio kaikan in akihabara, character street in tokyo station.

Character Street houses a variety of shops dedicated to Japanese animation franchises, including a Pokemon and Hello Kitty store.

CLICK HERE TO BROWSE OUR ANIME FLAVOR TOURS

Click here to browse our otaku tours, click here to browse our anime japan tours.

NORTHERN OR SOUTHERN JAPAN? WHICH TO VISIT NEXT

TRAVEL | Where to Go

Article | April 22nd, 2024 | May Hamamoto

Can’t get enough of Japan after visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, but are torn between the charms ......

12 OF OUR FAVORITE JAPANESE FESTIVALS

SPECIAL EVENTS | Festivals

Article | April 11th, 2024 | Dayna Hannah

Attending a Japanese festival is an experience unlike any other! Here are our favorite annual events......

WHEN TO SEE CHERRY BLOSSOMS BLOOM IN JAPAN | 2024

TRAVEL | When to Go

Article | March 29th, 2024 | Dayna Hannah

From Okinawa to Hokkaido, here's where and when to see cherry blossoms in Japan.......

Search Group Tour

2024, 2025 & 2026 group tour calendar, subscribe to blog via email.

Your Email Address

POPULAR ARTICLES

TOP PLACES TO SEE IN JAPAN IN 2024: 20 CITIES WE LOVE

50 THINGS TO DO IN JAPAN

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT JAPAN?

WHAT IS KOBE BEEF?

WHAT IS GEISHA

10 THINGS TO DO IN SHIBUYA

JAPANESE FOOD

🏯 The 5 Best Private Guided Tours of Tokyo [2024 Reviews]

If you’re looking for a kaleidoscope of flavors, cultures, and experiences, Tokyo should be at the very top of your list. However, if you really want to take advantage of everything this magical city has to offer, you need to do it right.

If you want an experience that’s as unique as the city itself, then you should sign yourself up for one of these top private tours of Tokyo .

This melding of neon lights, hidden alleyways, and skyscrapers is filled with untold stories and secrets that your guide will let you in on. If that sounds like fun to you, let’s jump right in!

Be sure to see our reviews of Tokyo Food Tours , Mt Fuji Day Trips and Tokyo Bike Tours .

Best Tokyo Private Tours by Locals

Quick answer: the 5 best private tokyo city tours for 2024.

• Tokyo Private Chauffeur Driving Sightseeing Tour – English Speaking Driver
• Tokyo: Full-Day Private Tour with Nationally-Licensed Guide
• Tokyo Private Custom Walking Tour with Local Friendly Guide
• Tokyo Private Tour by Car/Van – Guide Option Available (up to 13)
• Private Custom Tour: Tokyo in a Day

Tokyo City Private Tour Reviews

1. tokyo private chauffeur driving sightseeing tour.

• Duration: 7 to 9 hours
• Departure: Hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Departure Time: 9:00, 9:30, 10:00 AM
• Includes:  Bottled water, driver, pocket Wifi, Private tour, transport by private vehicle

This first tour will take you right into the heart of the vibrant Tokyo metropolis, offering up a sensory overload bound to leave you feeling like you’re in some sort of dream.

The Tokyo Private Chauffeur Driving Sightseeing Tour – English Speaking Driver  is one of the best choices you can make if it’s your first time in the city, taking you on a deep dive right into the center of it all.

If that wasn’t good enough, the staff is so professional, knowledgeable, and planned everything perfectly to make for a seamless tour.

First on our list is the grand dame herself: the oldest and most prominent temple in Tokyo, called the Senso-ji. This Buddhist temple is nearly 1400 years old, making it not only a gorgeous sight to see but a journey back in time.

Next up is the Tokyo Skytree, which is an architectural marvel towering 634 meters, completely redefining the term “city lights”.

Now head down into the Tsukiji Fish Market, where street food stalls burst full of energy, mouthwatering scents, and all kinds of interesting flavors.

Expand To See More See Less

It’s one of the most renowned fish markets in the world, spanning everything from food stalls to upscale restaurants serving all kinds of seafood. After you’re all fueled up, it’s time to travel to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace where the Edo Castle ruin tells plenty of stories on its own.

The Meiji Jingu Shrine is a serene haven amidst a wild urban sprawl, offering a moment for peaceful reflection in the middle of your tour. Don’t forget the Shibuya Crossing, which is the busiest intersection in the world and is often compared to New York’s Time Square.

Finally, pay a visit to Takeshita Street, where Harajuku’s avante-garde spirit thrives as a breathing masterpiece of youth culture.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. tokyo full-day private tour with nationally-licensed guide.

• Duration: 6 hours
• Departure:  Hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Departure Time: Anytime between 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
• Includes: Licensed local guide, free photos

If the first tour really caught your attention but you’re looking for something shorter, we have you covered. The Tokyo: Full-Day Private Tour with Nationally-Licensed Guide  is a few hours shorter yet still packs a punch in terms of learning and excitement.

If you have the morning or afternoon available and would like to see Tokyo’s top sights in one day without the hassle of doing it yourself, this is a great option for you.

What always kind of made me avoid tours in the past was the idea that I’d get herded around with a bunch of strangers like cattle, just ticking off a generic list of sights to see.

By now, I’ve learned that that’s not always the case – you just have to know  which  tours are the good ones to take. This tour is one of the best, as it lets you completely customize your itinerary, letting your guide create a schedule perfectly tailored to your needs.

Take some time here before strolling through the Imperial Palace’s Outer Garden, complete with seasonal flowers, original moats, entrance gates, and guardhouses. At lunchtime, you’ll enjoy a Harajuku meal where “kawaii” and “trendy” blend like soy sauce and wasabi.

Speaking of beautiful contrasts, we’ll then hang out in the Meiji Jingu Shrine: a forest oasis settled between the chaos of Shibuya and Shinjuku. Time seems to stand still here, and it’s a wonderful sanctuary for those who need a break amidst the hustle and bustle.

Overall, if you’re looking for a Tokyo masterclass, I highly recommend you consider this tour!

3. Tokyo Private Custom Walking Tour with Local Friendly Guide

• Duration: 4 to 8 hours
• Departure: Hotel pickup and drop-off available
• Departure Time: 9:00 AM
• Includes: Professional local guide

Walking tours are something really special, offering you that up close and personal experience that you simply can’t get in any other format.

If you want an authentic way to see this amazing city, the Tokyo Private Custom Walking Tour with Local Friendly Guide  is one of the best, creating an intimate experience where you get a knowledgeable guide to lead you around.

Based on your and your party’s interests, your itinerary will cover some of the most fascinating landmarks in all of Japan.

This full-throttle immersion into the vibrant city’s heart seamlessly combines the modern marvels with ancient wonders, in a way only Tokyo is able to pull off.

The cultural compass of a guide was packed full of fun facts, anecdotes, and intricate pieces of knowledge that only enriched the experience further.

In order to make the most of your time and really experience Tokyo like a local, you’ll be navigating its labyrinthine metro system with your guide who has your back.

The first stop on the tour is the largest fish market on the planet: Tsukiji Market. It’s an explosion of colors, scents, sights, and flavors where you’ll be able to try all kinds of seafood that you’ve never even seen before.

Then there’s Asakusa, where tradition meets modernity in the shadow of the beautiful time capsule that is Sensoji Temple.

The Meiji Shrine is next on the list, which serves as a tranquil oasis amid the urban frenzy, where you’ll be able to take a mental break before heading to Takeshita Street in Harajuku. You can choose to check out the Imperial Palace’s East Garden, or the electric atmosphere of Shibuya Crossing.

The Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo Skytree, Odaiba waterfront, and various others are available to add to your customized itinerary.

4. Tokyo Private Tour by Car/Van – Guide Option Available (up to 13)

• Duration: 10 hours
• Includes: Gas, highway tolls, English-speaking driver, air-conditioned vehicle, Wi-Fi hotspot onboard

If you’re traveling with more than just a few other people, I can’t recommend this next tour enough. The Tokyo Private Tour by Car/Van – Guide Option Available (up to 13)  will let all of you travel together while skipping the hassle of waiting for strangers at places you aren’t as interested in.

This tour lets you completely customize your itinerary based on your schedule and personal interests, so you can maximize your tour experience!

Starting off at 9:00 am, you’ll be picked right up from your hotel lobby so you don’t have to worry about scheduling separate transportation or waking up earlier to meet your driver.

The vehicle is not only air-conditioned but comes with Wi-Fi so you’re never without connection in case you’d like to send photos and videos in real-time to loved ones. Make sure to let them know what you’re most interested in so they can build the ideal schedule for you.

Check out the Senso-ji Temple, which has been standing as a living testament to Tokyo’s history for nearly 1400 years. You’ll learn just a fraction of the countless stories this landmark has seen, but they’re incredibly fascinating.

There’s the Tokyo Skytree, which is a monolith piercing the skyline like some kind of vaporware dream we all imagine when thinking of this city.

Imperial Palace’s East Gardens are like stepping straight into a history book, followed by a delicious trip to the Tsukiji Fish Market. As a haven for foodies, you’ll love fueling up here before exploring the Meiji Jingu Shrine, the swirling vortex of lights that is Shibuya Crossing, the Odaiba District, and so much more.

This is a beautiful adventure that’s perfect if you really love getting down to the raw culture and spirit of a place.

5. Private Custom Tour: Tokyo in a Day

• Duration: 8 hours
• Includes:  Meet-and-greet service at hotel (if by public transport), professional guide, transport by private vehicle (if by private vehicle), transportation fares (if by public transport), lunch (full-day option only), snacks

If it’s your first day in Tokyo, do yourself a favor and instead of heading to the hotel for a nap, take this tour instead. After just a few minutes of venturing through this magnificent city, you can rest assured any jet lag will disappear.

The Private Custom Tour: Tokyo in a Day lets you explore at your own pace and set your schedule! Navigating Tokyo as a noobie is no joke, so I highly appreciated the fact that our guide came right to our hotel lobby to pick us up.

Your transport will be by comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle or by public transport if you choose to go with the regular option. Either way, you’ll have your guide there to lead the way and fill you in on interesting tips and historical accounts at each location.

The fun part comes when you tell your guide about your personal interests, so that you can either come up with a half-day or full-day sightseeing itinerary that goes based on them.

Whether you’re a foodie, passionate about Japanese culture, history, or love the outdoors, they are experts at creating memorable tours that honor those interests. However, there are certain spots that most people would like to visit, regardless.

The Tsukiji Market is one of those, which is the most renowned and biggest fish market in the entire world. The Hama Rikyu Gardens are the perfect example of a traditional Japanese garden, making for a serene escape and great photo ops in the middle of this bustling landscape.

If you’re into shopping, Ginza is a youthful, trendy place famous for its brand names and traditional shops.

With such genuinely cool, knowledgeable tour guides, I’d trust them with my eyes closed to create a customized itinerary for me. Whatever you end up doing, you can rest easy knowing you’re going to have a great time.

FAQs About Visiting Tokyo

What will i see on a guided tour of tokyo.

• Tokyo National Museum – This is Japan’s largest and oldest museum. There is a huge collection of art and artifacts from ancient times to modern day. You will see samurai armor and swords, Buddhist scrolls, kimonos, pottery, paintings and lots more.
• Shibuya Crossing – Probably the world’s busiest intersection, here you can watch the crowds of people cross the street in all directions, it’s truly a sight to behold! You will find no shortage of shops, restaurants and cafes for you to try.
• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – This large and beautiful park is in the heart of the city. It has not only a variety of Japanese gardens but also French and English as well. There is also a greenhouse with a variety of tropical plants. Stroll the paths and admire the flowers and trees or better yet have a picnic on the lawn.
• Tokyo Skytree – This is the tallest tower in the world! Take an elevator to the observation decks where you will have a panoramic view of the city with lots of photo opportunities.

Tour Guides

The Tokyo Private Chauffeur Driving Sightseeing Tour is our Editors Choice for the best private guided tour of Tokyo

Krysha Thayer

Related articles, the 5 best taj majal tours from new delhi [2024 reviews], the 5 best halong bay cruises [2024 reviews], ▷ the 5 best hanoi city tours [2024 reviews], ▷ the 5 best mekong delta & cu chi tunnels tours [2024 reviews].

Travel deeper with a Local Guide

Book japan's authentic small group tours by locals.

As recommended by 99% of TripAdvisor users

Find Local Tours in Japan

Tours in Tokyo

Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku

An introduction to Izakaya food & drink culture

Sushi & Sake Tasting Cooking Class with a Visit to Local Supermarket in Tokyo

Shop in a local supermarket and learn how to cook Sushi & Japanese traditional dishes

Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo

Taste all kinds of Japanese meat in the lively nightlife district of Tokyo

Authentic Sumo Experience in Tokyo : Enter the Sanctuary

Immerse yourself in the deep culture of sumo and discover the secrets of wrestlers' strength.

Akihabara Anime & Gaming Adventure Tour

Classic games, friendly maids and the anime world all await you!

[Tokyo Skytree Town] Watch Sumo Wrestler's Morning Practice in Oshiage

Watch real sumo morning training with a local guide

Tours in Kyoto

Kyoto Bar Hopping Nightlife Tour in Pontocho

Pub crawl through the hidden local izakaya bars & eateries in Pontocho at night

Dinner with Maiko in a Traditional Kyoto Style Restaurant Tour

Journey into mysterious world of Maiko in Gion, Kyoto

Kyoto Night Foodie Tour

Dive into the Kyoto's food culture at hidden restaurants in Gion & Pontocho

Kyoto Sake Brewery & Tasting Tour in Fushimi

Have a sake adventure: learn the history, taste many kinds, and visit Kyoto's major brewery district

Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour

Kyoto's No.1 Fushimi Inari tour, through a hidden hiking trail up the mountain.

Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo forest & Garden Half-Day Walking Tour

Travel deeper into Arashiyama's villa landscapes, beautiful Japanese gardens, and a bamboo forest with a local guide

Why Choose Magical Trip?

Meet the heart of magical trip.

Our exclusive local guides. Elevate your journey with a unique travel experience that's bound to be your trip's highlight!

Experience intimate tours at Magical Trip.

Connect personally with locals, talented guides, and fellow adventurers for spontaneous, script-free journeys enriched by friendly local insights.

Unlock genuine local experiences with Magical Trip's Guides.

Escape tourist traps, immerse in authentic neighborhood activities, and forge connections that turn strangers into friends. Travel like a local, return with lasting memories.

Tours in Osaka

Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Namba

Indulge in Osaka's Food & Nightlife at Hidden Pubs

Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour in Osaka

Eating up local's favorite street-foods

4-Hour Osaka Highlights Bike Tour with Lunch

Cycle around the magnificent Osaka castle area

Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai

Try Osaka's must-eat foods

Tours in Hiroshima

Hiroshima Bar Hopping Food Tour

Taste Hiroshima's foods in one night at the biggest nightlife district in Hiroshima!

Hiroshima Peace (Heiwa) Walking Tour at World Heritage Sites

Get insights into Hiroshima's Past, Present and Future from Hiroshima Locals

Miyajima Half-day Trip Historical Walking Tour

Take a cultural highlights tour of the beautiful Miyajima island in Hiroshima.

Joined by Travelers Across the World

Travel Deeper with Local Guides

Connect with the local community on a personal level by getting to know our talented guides!

Recommended By

Featured by top medias around the world!

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Shopping & Style
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Restaurants & Cafes
• Music & Nightlife
• Neighborhoods
• Los Angeles

The Pokémon lover’s guide to Tokyo

Your ultimate guide on where to eat, shop and play like the best Pokémon trainer in the capital

Tokyo is the perfect place to geek out if you’re obsessed with any sort of anime or games – especially Pokémon. From shopping at a futuristic Pokémon Center to dining on cute pocket monster-themed food and drinks, there’s plenty of entertainment for Pokémon fans of all ages. If you’ve already hit up the city’s coolest character shops and made your way through Tokyo’s Ghibli gems , you’ll want to add these Pokémon stops to your itinerary. RECOMMENDED: Catch iconic Japanese scenery without leaving Tokyo

Gotta visit 'em all

Pokémon Center Shibuya

If there’s only one Pokémon Center in Tokyo you should visit, it’s got to be the one at Shibuya Parco. Your one-stop shop for all your pocket monster needs, the centre is conveniently located on Shibuya Parco’s geeked-out Cyberspace floor. The centre is more than just your average store, too. At the entrance, you’ll find a life-size Mewtwo hibernating in a tank and other cool displays that make it feel as if you're inside Professor Willow’s lab. Inside, you can stock up on Pokémon plushies, collectable cards, beauty products and even special Shibuya-exclusive items such as Pokémon skateboards and streetwear.

Pokémon Café

Die-hard Pokémon fans will want to have at least one meal at Nihonbashi’s Pokémon Café. Outfitted with all your favourite characters, the café serves up an adorable selection of Pokémon-themed dishes such as Pikachu curry, Snorlax lunch sets, Eevee chocolate parfaits and Pokéball dessert bowls. The special drinks are also a hot ticket item, including colourful cream sodas topped with character cookies, or Pokémon lattes digitally printed with your choice of character on top. You’ll also be in for a treat as a life-sized Pikachu makes an appearance during each seating, often dressed as a chef or waiter.

Pikachu Sweets by Pokémon Café

• Restaurants

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, the Pikachu Sweets shop is a must-visit for some tasty souvenirs. You’ll find the takeaway sweets shop in Ikebukuro near the Sunshine City Pokémon Centre outlet. Just a few of the lip-smacking items available include Pikachu cupcakes, baumkuchen cake slices showcasing Pikachu's various evolutions, and lattes featuring adorable Pokémon artwork on each and every cup. Special merchandise is also on sale, including Pikachu keychains and plush Pikachu and Eevee drink sleeves.

Pokémon manhole covers

• Things to do

Pokémon manhole covers have been popping up all across Japan. Kyoto has some, Nara has some, and Tokyo’s Serigaya Park in Machida even has a set of its own . Known as Pokéfuta, the manhole covers are a collaborative project between the Pokémon Company and local tourism groups, aimed at boosting tourism in lesser known destinations around the country. In Tokyo, you’ll find six Pokéfuta with images of first generation Pokémon including Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, Poliwag, Oddish, Weedle, Caterpie, Pidgey and Rattata. But if you want to catch a glimpse of Mew, you’ll have to head to Tokyo’s subtropical Ogasawara Islands . The official website even has a handy map showing you all the Pokéfuta scattered throughout Japan.

Pokémon room at Mimaru hotel

• Transport & Travel

You’ll be dreaming of Pokémon all night long when you stay at this Pokémon-themed guest room . You’ll find the rooms at Mimaru hotels in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, and they’re completely decked out with pocket monster gear including a giant plush Snorlax that doubles as a snuggle buddy. Guests will also receive special Pokemon-themed gifts upon check-in including an original drawstring bag, a welcome card and two hand towels. Mimaru is an apartment-style hotel, so the special room is also outfitted with a full kitchen and Pokémon tableware, too. A stay at the Mimaru Tokyo Ueno East location starts at ¥39,900 for one night and can accommodate up to six people.

Pikachu Outbreak

This massive Pokémon festival usually takes place every summer down in Tokyo’s neighbouring city of Yokohama. Although the event was cancelled last year due to Covid-19, we’re crossing our fingers that it will return this summer. The festival is basically a massive Pokémon takeover with Pikachu, the face of the franchise, plastered all over Yokohama’s Minato Mirai area. Highlights include performances, a stamp rally, and, of course, the famous parade where you'll see an army of giant Pikachus and Eevees marching down the streets.

Pokémon With You Train

• Attractions

Although this is technically not in Tokyo, it should definitely be on your radar if you’re a hardcore Pokémon fan. One of Japan’s many novelty locomotives , this two-car train is themed after the franchise’s most popular character, Pikachu, and runs year-round from Ichinoseki to Kesennuma stations in Tochigi prefecture. Hop aboard the first car and you’ll find reserved seating along with Pikachu motifs on the seats, floor and even the curtains. The second car is for the kids in tow and features a spacious yellow play area with a giant plush version of Pikachu. Tickets for the train start from ¥420 and can be reserved online here .

More from Time Out Tokyo

The Ghibli lover’s guide to Tokyo

The Ghibli Museum is just the start – here are the best Ghibli-related attractions, shops, cafés and parks in Tokyo

Best public art sculptures in Tokyo

• Outdoor art

Get out of the museum – Tokyo has plenty of artworks that are free to see out in the open.

Where to see the Tokyo skyline for free

Admire the wonders of the Tokyo cityscape – from Mt Fuji to Tokyo Bay – without spending anything

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

• Terms of use
• Work for Time Out
• Time Out Group
• Advertising
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies

Time Out Tokyo

• Magazine subscription
• Digital edition
• Buy the guide to Tokyo

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Popular Searches

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Tokyo

• Buy Tickets Book online in advance to save!
• Multi-Attraction Tickets Up to 35% off on two attractions
• Things to do 15+ epic attractions!
• Play & learn!
• Indoor attraction
• Easy access to Odaiba kaihin koen station

What's New

Book online and save!

Pre-purchase your tickets online to save more!

ENJOY 30% OFF ADULT TICKETS

Book in advance and enjoy 30% off on adult ticket for weekday visits on 4/10(Wed)・4/11(Thu)・4/17(Wed)・4/18(Thu)・4/24(Wed)・4/25(Thu) after 2pm! Kindly note that adults must be accompanied by a child to enter.

Up to 35% off for 2 attractions

Visit both LEGOLAND Discovery Center Tokyo and Madame Tussauds Tokyo for an action-packed day! Save up to 35% on both attractions with the Combination Ticket.

Pre-book visits

As a safety measure, we are currently limiting the number of people who can enter. Those who have an annual passport also need to make a reservation in advance.

SHARE THE FUN

#legolanddiscoverycentertokyo.

What we offer

• 12 family attractions & activities 4D cinema, Kingdom Quest laser ride, Merlin’s Apprentice, LEGO® Ninjago City Adventure... and more!
• Discover the city in miniature See all of Tokyo’s top attractions made from LEGO® in our MINILAND ®
• Birthday parties & group deals LEGO® themed birthday parties here in Tokyo!
• School trips One-of-a-kind school trips

Find Out More

Suitable For

• LEGOLAND® Discovery Center is designed specifically for children aged 3-10 years to enjoy - everything is kid-sized
• Adults (16 and up)* must be accompanied by a child (15 and under) to visit*(with the exception of Adult Night event)
• Children (15 and under) must be accompanied by an adult (16 and up) to visit

Find out more

Even more awesome!

My daughter loved the play area. 2 rides. Try to stay away from school holidays like we did. Overall it was worth the trip to Daiba

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

10 of the best hotels in Tokyo, from charming ryokans to Japanese onsen retreats

Japan’s capital is one of the most diverse and thrilling cities on Earth — but its sheer size can make choosing a hotel daunting. Here are 10 places to stay in Tokyo to make your trip all the more memorable.

With its glinting skyscrapers, narrow alleyways, lantern-festooned temples and neon-clad arcades, Tokyo is one of the most diverse and thrilling cities on Earth — but its sheer size can make choosing a hotel daunting. Over the past decade, accommodation options have broadened to include trendy ryokans (traditional inns) and indie hotels. Because there’s no single city ‘centre’ in the Japanese capital, you’ll almost certainly have to do some travelling — likely on the efficient metro system — to see its highlights, so don’t get overly hung up on location. Instead, think about what’s more important after a day’s sightseeing: an al fresco pool or a cool in-house bar.

1. Hoshinoya Tokyo

Best for: cultural immersion Leave the city, and your shoes, behind as you step onto the tatami floors of this skyscraper ryokan. It’s a low-lit retreat of shoji screen doors and incense-scented air, with a second-floor lobby that includes a little salon for tea ceremonies. The 84 rooms are spread across the next 14 floors, with each level centred around a traditional ochanoma lounge serving teas, sake and house-made snacks. The rooms themselves are plush, with raised-platform futon beds, deep-soak tubs and jersey kimono-style pyjamas. An immense 17th-floor onsen-spa has hot spring waters pumped in from 5,000ft below the city streets, with a vaulted roof that leaves it part-open to the elements. The 10-table basement restaurant serves exquisite French-Japanese tasting menus and the in-room bento box breakfasts are highly recommended. Rooms: From ¥112,000 (£589), two-night minimum stay.

2. OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka

Best for: budgeting In a skyscraper-cluttered metropolis, a hotel with an intimate, neighbourhood vibe can be a rare thing. Yet this branch of cool, affordable chain Omo, by Hoshino Resorts, has just that, packaged up in a modern building in the northern district of Otsuka. Cleverly designed rooms make the most of every square inch, with loft-style beds suspended above tatami mat seating areas and storage space integrated into walls and stairs. There’s also a laundry room on the fifth floor, where guests can wash and dry clothes for just a few quid, and an all-day cafe that transitions from breakfast space to coffeeshop to bar as the day progresses. Sign up for a local tour with one of the dedicated ‘Omo Rangers’, who will take you around the excellent local tempura and ramen shops — or even on an Otsuka bar crawl. Rooms: From ¥16,000 (£84).

3. TRUNK (Hotel) Cat Street

Best for: loft-style cool This felt like an entirely new concept in Tokyo when it first opened in 2017: a design-forward boutique hotel with universally appealing NYC-style coolness. Seven years on, the concept has now been copied many times in the city, but it’s still hard to top the original in the shopping area of Shibuya, just off Cat Street. Its lounge, restaurants and shop attract fashionable Tokyoites as much as hotel guests, and its bedrooms come with a breezy, minimalist aesthetic. Some have balconies with hammocks while larger options, like the Dining Suite, include spaces such as a kitchen area or terrace. Don’t be surprised to see dapper couples heading for the rooftop; it’s a popular venue for city weddings. Rooms: From ¥51,774 (£273).

4. Palace Hotel Tokyo

Best for: royal luxury This elegant hotel in Otemachi has long been a favourite with well-heeled Tokyoites who come for the dining options and spa. It helps that it’s mere steps away from the Imperial Palace, the city’s most exclusive address, and close to the swish shops of the upmarket Ginza district. Good-sized rooms — some of them featuring balconies — overlook an expanse of moat-carved gardens. An extensive breakfast buffet has princely appeal thanks to elegant platings of grilled fish, pickled plums, rice and miso soup; if that’s not to your taste, there’s eggs benedict and croissants, too. The in-house restaurants also have the wow factor, with two Michelin-starred options: French-inspired Esterre, in partnership with Ducasse Paris, and Chinese-focused Amber Palace. Rooms: From ¥91,800 (£483).

5. ONE@Tokyo

Best for: solo travellers In the east of the city, a 10-minute walk from the Tokyo Skytree observatory tower, One@Tokyo has a high-profile pedigree for a budget hotel, having been designed by Japanese starchitect Kengo Kuma. Functional yet not austere, its communal spaces — from the open lobby to the greenery-dotted rooftop — fuse industrial metallics with warm woods and a palette of unfussy greys. With their friendly price point and compact footprint, the lead-in standard semi-double rooms are perfect for solo travellers who want a step up in comfort and privacy from one of the city’s legendary capsule hotels. Long-stay discounts apply when booking for five nights, making it a perfect base if you’re planning day trips out of the city, too. Rooms: From ¥15,000 (£79).

6. Hotel New Otani Tokyo

Best for: amenities More urban resort than hotel, this vast property — once a filming location for the James Bond film You Only Live Twice — occupies a verdant location between multiple parks in the central Chiyoda ward. The hotel is fringed by 10 acres of 400-year-old Japanese gardens and, unusually for Tokyo, also has an al fresco swimming pool. The 1,474 rooms are spread across three wings, and there are more than three-dozen dining options, plus a lounge with free nibbles and drinks for Executive House Zen guests. Rooms: From ¥36,000 (£189).

7. Shiba Park Hotel

Best for: bookworms The printed page takes centre stage from the moment you walk in to this hotel, which houses a collection of around 1,500 books. As well as a double-height atrium lined with wooden shelves of books, there’s also a fireside library lounge and book corners on every floor, each themed around different aspects of Japanese culture. The rooms are comfy, contemporary retreats in which to curl up in with a good read — and the views of Tokyo Tower, lit up like a beacon at night, aren’t half bad either. Rooms: From ¥21,870 (£115).

8. Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo

Best for: families With reasonable prices, a prime location near Shinjuku station and views out to Mount Fuji on a clear day, this option ticks a lot of boxes. Rooms are a bit bland (unless you plump for a suite with tatami mats and shoji screen doors), but for families, the spacious four-bed options more than make up for the uninspiring decor. On-site experiences such as tea ceremonies make getting a culture fix easy if you’re wrangling kids. The seventh-floor outdoor pool, 11 restaurants and laundromat also help. Rooms: From ¥35,200 (£185).

9. Hotel Groove Shinjuku, A Parkroyal Hotel

Best for: nightlife-lovers For years, Shinjuku’s red-light district Kabukicho was rather sordid, the kind of place you’d head to for late-night karaoke and beers but not for a respectable hotel. All that’s changed with this recent opening, which reflects the fun of the city’s party heart but also has style and class. Set across floors 18 to 38 in the new Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, the rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the neon bustle below, as well as electric-hued carpets and the occasional pop art wall mural. On the building’s lower floors, a retro-styled arcade, cinema, live music space and food hall with regional dishes keep the entertainment flowing around the clock. Rooms: From ¥31,000 (£163).

10. Tokyo Station Hotel

Best for: European-style elegance Opened in 1915, and set within the original 20th-century Tokyo Station, this grand hotel could have been lifted from London or Paris. Red bricks and soaring domes characterise the exterior; chandeliers, marble and button-back headboards are part of the old-world European opulence inside. Take tea in the high-ceilinged lobby lounge, ringing with live piano music and the clink of fine silverware, and end the day at the venerable Bar Oak, which serves up an array of Japanese whiskies in moody, wood-lined environs. If you’re planning to adventure beyond the capital, the location is unbeatable. Tokyo Station is the main Shinkansen (bullet train) terminal, serving popular destinations such as Kyoto and Osaka, and you can go from bed to boarding in mere minutes. Rooms: From ¥135,332 (£711).  

Related Topics

• LUXURY TRAVEL
• FAMILY TRAVEL

You May Also Like

10 of the best new hotels in Japan, from traditional ryokans to tropical treehouses

10 of the best new hotels in Paris, from playful boutiques to opulent grand dames

For hungry minds.

10 of the best hotels in Auckland, from sea-view retreats to urban art escapes

10 of the best hotels in Mexico City, from style icons to neighbourhood hangouts

Where to stay in Manila: 4 design-led hotels redefining the Filipino capital

Chandelier bars and old-school kitsch: the best places to stay in Las Vegas

10 of the best hotels in Hong Kong, from affordable luxury to harbour views

• Environment

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• History Magazine
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Coronavirus Coverage
• Paid Content
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

• FanNation FanNation FanNation
• SI.COM SI.COM SI.COM
• SI Swimsuit SI Swimsuit SI Swimsuit
• SI Sportsbook SI Sportsbook SI Sportsbook
• SI Tickets SI Tickets SI Tickets
• SI Showcase SI Showcase SI Showcase
• SI Resorts SI Resorts SI Resorts

© Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

Micah Parsons Takes on a Sumo Wrestler in Tokyo

• Author: Dustin Mosher

In this story:

 In an unexpected showdown, Dallas Cowboys star linebacker Micah Parsons faced off against an unusual opponent: a Japanese sumo wrestler. The encounter took place during Parsons’ Asia tour alongside Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud. A video of the matchup has gone viral.

Micah Parsons went 1v1 with a sumo wrestler 😳 This Tokyo trip is WILD. pic.twitter.com/Fl2hkCHW9g — Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) May 5, 2024

CJ Stroud, watching from the sidelines, couldn’t help but laugh at Parsons’ predicament. Stroud playfully offered advice on celebrations, including the famous “too small” gesture after the wrestler won round 1. Parsons asked for a rematch and, shockingly, actually won round 2.

One thing you won’t do is disrespect the lion and think I’m not finna lock in! https://t.co/4pZTiU1qm8 — Micah Parsons (@MicahhParsons11) May 5, 2024

The video shows the incredible strength of Japanese sumo wrestlers. It is truly impressive that Parsons was able to hold his own against some of the strongest men alive. This fierce competitive spirit to even challenge a sumo wrestler is what makes Micah special. He is never afraid of competition.

Latest Cowboys News

Cowboys Have ‘Intel’ on Brooks Injury, Set Draft Visit

'Typical!' Cowboys Signing Injured Connor Williams?

Cowboys' Prescott Ranked Second-Best NFL QB? By Whom?!

Cowboys vs. Dak Problem Solved - by Stephen A. Smith?!

Cowboys Ex Lineman Dead At 66

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Flight + Hotel
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

TOKYO BORDERLESS enTaiko concert 2024 | Portland Community College Sylvania Campus Performing Arts Center

Experience the mesmerizing TOKYO BORDERLESS enTaiko concert 2024 in Portland at the prestigious Portland Community College Sylvania Campus Performing Arts Center on May 18. Witness enTaiko's innovative approach to Japanese music as they blend tradition with diversity, paying homage to Taiko's cultural heritage. Under the baton of conductor Ines Voglar Belgique, a classical music ensemble will join forces with the Portland Youth Philharmonic String Ensemble to reimagine enTaiko's renowned piece, Celebration. The drummers' appearance will be transformed with costumes and custom wigs designed by a talented junk and fiber artist, adding an enchanting anime touch. Renowned breakdancer Walle Brown will infuse street-style dance into the performance, merging classical and modern elements in a vibrant street culture ambiance. Director Kazuyo Ito will compose a new piece for this extraordinary collaboration. Purchase tickets ranging from $13 to $18 and be part of this unique fusion of traditional and contemporary artistry at the TOKYO BORDERLESS enTaiko concert 2024.

Provided by Cailin | Published May 8, 2024

Are you interested in TOKYO BORDERLESS enTaiko concert 2024?

Recommended products for tokyo borderless entaiko concert 2024 | portland community college sylvania campus performing arts center, the ritz-carlton, portland, the nines, a luxury collection hotel, portland, more contents about portland.

• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• Website Feedback
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Statement
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List My Property
• Become a Supplier

• All Group Tours 2024
• All Group Tours 2025
• Signature Tours (Non-Anime)
• Cherry Blossom Season
• Anime Related Tours
• Search Tours
• Tour by theme
• Cherry Blossom
• Anime / Manga / Game
• Highlights Japan
• Signature Tours
• Festival Tours
• Grand Tours
• Southern Japan
• Hokkaido & Northern Japan Tours
• Quilt Tours
• Snow Monkey
• Japanese Ancestry
• All Private Tours
• Cruise Connection Tours
• Custom Tours
• Last Minute Deal
• Offers & Specials
• Destinations
• Experiences
• Trip Advisor's Must-See
• Brochure Request
• Japan Tour Movies
• Terms & Conditions
• Trip Reviews
• Guest Login
• Tour Airfare
• Airport Transfer
• How to Book
• Travel Tips

Travel Insurance

• Documents Download
• USA/Canada 1-800-285-2726
• Australia (02) 8006 4411

• View Saved Tour

US/Canada Toll Free

1-800-285-2726

• US/Canada Toll Free 1-800-285-2726
• Australia (02)8006 4411

6 Days AnimeJapan | Tokyo

• From Tokyo To Tokyo
• Friday, February 23, 2024 Updated

2024 Spring Tours

Limited Time Offer

Saving up to 15% Off Cherry Blossom Tours

Promotion valid until March 15, 2024

Tour Descriptions

• Dates & Quote
• Accommodations

Tour Departure and Prices 1) Price per person.    2) Airfare is not included.  

Tour Includes

• - Travel Insurance
• - Optional Excursions

Travel Highlights

Important information, maximum group size.

The maximum number of participants will not exceed 26 people during your Japan tour. Your group may be joined with other tour groups during the tour. Please note that your bus and tour guide may be changed if other groups join the tour.

Single Supplement

Single travelers are required to pay a single supplement in order to guarantee single room accommodation.

We request one suitcase, one carry-on bag, and an overnight bag per person. The tote bag we provide can be used to hold any small merchandise/souvenirs purchased during your tour. When you check out, bring your luggage to the lobby and the bus driver will assist in loading it onto the bus. When you arrive at the next hotel, the bus driver will unload your luggage for you to bring to your room. Please note: The maximum weight of a checked in bag is typically 20 Kilograms or 44 Pounds. You will be traveling with your luggage except during the bullet train ride (if applicable).

Accommodation

All hotel rooms come with a full bathroom and room amenities free of charge unless stated otherwise.

Transportation

All motor coaches come equipped with air-conditioning, plenty of space, comfortable seats, and Wi-Fi.

International Flights

All of our tours begin in either Tokyo or Osaka/Kyoto. When beginning or ending a tour in Tokyo, please book flights to or from Narita International Airport or Haneda International Airport. For tours beginning or ending in Osaka/Kyoto, please book flights to or from Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport. We recommend you do not book your flights until the tour status changes from Book Now to Guaranteed Departure . You can also contact us if you would like for Japan Deluxe Tour's to arrange your flights.

Fitness & Shoes

Traveling and visiting sights in Japan includes a good amount of walking. To fully enjoy the tour, please be prepared to keep up with the pace of the group, climb stairs with no difficulty, and wear comfortable shoes for all day use.

Guests with tattoos may not be able to use the hot-springs or onsens while in Japan. We apologize if you are unable to enjoy this experience during your stay.

Cherry Blossom Viewing

We cannot guarantee cherry blossoms will be in full bloom for viewing during this tour. Please refer to our Cherry Blossom Forecast page for updates and information about Sakura Cherry Blossoms and when they are expected to bloom in select cities.

Meals & Dietary Requirements

Please notify us before your tour starts if you have any dietary restrictions or requirements we should be aware about. Japan Deluxe Tours can provide Vegetarian meals for guests, and we will do our best to cater to any serious allergies or dietary restrictions. We will not be able to substitute or change meals after your tour begins.

• B :Breakfast

Cultural Experience

Anime & J-Pop

Japanese Anime 88-Spots

Ninja Workshop

Dining experience.

Kawaii Sweets

Seasonal Japanese Dining

Customer reviews, book with confidence.

All small-group journeys are guaranteed to operate with just 6 guests.

• Detailed Itinerary

Reserve Your Air with Japan Deluxe Tours

Call for preferred rates through our partner.

Protect your investment.

Tour Standard

• All ground transportation
• All admission fees as listed
• Gratuities & Local Taxes
• Round-trip airport transfers
• licensed tour guide throughout

Tour a piece of Macomb County Jail history before it's gone

It has been 60 to 70 years since some of the buildings at the Macomb County Jail complex went up.

Soon, some of the oldest parts of the complex in Mount Clemens, including one dating to 1954, will be coming down as work starts on a new $228 million Central Intake and Assessment Center.

The public is invited to take a tour of a part of the jail complex that is set to be demolished beginning this summer.

The county will offer tours of the original maximum security area May 15 and May 16 at the jail complex at Elizabeth Road and North Groesbeck Highway, an area the county says was built in the 1960s and resembles Alcatraz . That's the joint on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay that once was a maximum security federal prison.

"The Macomb County Jail holds a unique place in our county's history," County Executive Mark Hackel said in a news release Monday. "As we say goodbye to this iconic structure, we must also look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead with the new Central Intake and Assessment Center. This facility will play a vital role in addressing the needs of our community and improving the safety and overall well-being of our residents."

Tours of the closed-down section will be from noon to 6 p.m. both days on the hour, Sheriff Anthony Wickersham said. He said photos will be permitted of the maximum security area, which had individual cells where those housed were locked down 23 hours a day. The area hasn't been used in about four years, Wickersham said.

Officials said they will offer tours of the D block area in the future. D block, dormitory-type cells with no air conditioning units that reporters toured in 2019, may not be demolished until the end of the year as it is currently housing some of those who are jailed, Hackel said.

According to a video last month on the sheriff's office Facebook page about the history of the jail, the D block originally was 12 cells that could sleep as many as 12 people, sharing one bathroom and shower area.

Reservations are required for the tours. Interested parties, including large groups, such as schools or clubs, can schedule a tour by calling the training division at 586-307-9311. Stairs are required for access to the west entrance of the facility.

The new Central Intake and Assessment Center is to offer services for those with mental health and substance abuse issues. County officials hope it will help address the decades-long gap in mental health care that began when state facilities were decommissioned.

The center is to have more beds for inmates with medical and mental health issues. Last year , when Hackel announced the proposal, he said the county could be in a position to hand off someone committed to a state prison with an assessment and understanding of their substance abuse or mental health issues, thanks to the new center.

According to the county, about 78,000 square feet of the existing jail, including the annex, maximum security and rehabilitation area, will be demolished and cleared starting in the next month or two. The tall tower, which opened in 1987 and has 900 beds, is the most visible section of the jail complex and will remain.

Construction on the new center is set to be completed by 2027.

A new or updated jail has been discussed for years by county officials, with numerous Band-Aid fixes along the way to various sections.

Plans for a new jail were put on hold in April 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hackel and Wickersham decided not to ask voters in August 2020 to vote on a new countywide millage to fund a new lockup.

The new center will be built with federal, state and county funding. No tax increases are expected to the fund the project.

The new center will be about 177,000 square feet, with space for a public lobby, secure passage, staff support, intake and release, court intake housing, medical and mental health, community corrections and general population housing, according to the county .

It's to have 278 beds, some standard and some similar to hospital beds, with medical, mental health and detox treatment wings. There will centralized intake and universal assessment for medical, mental health and pretrial services at booking. There also will be front-end diversion when appropriate through the assessment center, according to the county .

There will be 1,178 beds at the jail complex, in total, once the project is complete.

Contact Christina Hall: [email protected]. Follow her on X: @challreporter.

Support local journalism.  Subscribe  to the Free Press.

Submit a letter to the editor at  freep.com/letters .

•   Weather

Search location by ZIP code

Janet jackson cancels smoothie king center tour stop, will perform at essence fest instead.

Janet Jackson was originally slated to headline the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans on July 23 as part of her Together Again Summer 2024 tour.

• Copy Link Copy {copyShortcut} to copy Link copied!

GET LOCAL BREAKING NEWS ALERTS

The latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox.

Janet Jackson is changing her plans when it comes to New Orleans.

She was originally slated to headline the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans on July 23 as part of her Together Again Summer 2024 tour, but that stop has been canceled. Instead, Jackson is slated to appear at the 2024 Essence Festival of Culture at the Caesars Superdome on one of the three nights of concerts from July 5-7. Essence did not reveal the specific date on which Jackson will perform.

This will be Jackson's fourth Essence appearance. She previously performed at the event in 2010, 2018 and 2022.

People who bought tickets to the Smoothie King Center show will be refunded. This is a statement posted on Ticketmaster's website:

"You don't need to do a thing. We'll issue a refund to the original method of payment used at time of purchase, as soon as funds are received from the Event Organizer. It should appear on your account within 14-21 days. Please Note: If the tickets were transferred to you, the refund will go to the fan who originally purchased the tickets from Ticketmaster."

Biggest summer concert season at Blossom Music Center since the ‘80s: How to get tickets

• Updated: May. 07, 2024, 9:46 a.m. |
• Published: May. 07, 2024, 6:02 a.m.

The summer of 2024 will be one of the busiest concert seasons at Blossom Music Center since the 1980s. Among the artists performing, clockwise from top left: Norah Jones, Noah Kahan, Alanis Morissette and Pitbull. Getty Images

• Malcolm X Abram, cleveland.com
• Kaylee Remington, cleveland.com

CUYAHOGA FALLS, Ohio - Across its storied history, Blossom Music Center has hosted thousands of concerts. But the 2024 pop concert season is packed with artists young, mature and just plain old and still going. The 2024 Blossom Music Center’s schedule has more than 40 shows, the most in any summer since its mid-1980s peak.

Some weeks are so packed with touring acts that music fans with eclectic tastes and mounds of extra cash in their pockets could spend nearly a full week watching live music. Here is the full Blossom schedule for 2024.

Noah Kahan will perform May 28, 2024, at Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls. (Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images)

Noah Kahan: We’ll All Be Here Forever Tour

Tuesday, May 28

The singer-songwriter nominated for a Best New Artist Grammy in 2023, whose tune “Stick Season” was a hit on TikTok before it was even released, is going to have the biggest summer of his still young career. He will headline sheds and arenas this summer on the strength of his platinum third album, “Stick Season,” which topped charts in several countries.

8 p.m., Tickets start at $68.69 and are available at l ivenation.com .

MORE WAYS TO GET TICKETS : SeatGeek | Vivid Seats | StubHub | Viagogo | TicketCity

21 Savage: American Dream Tour

Wednesday, May 29

The star Atlanta rapper’s third album, “American Dream,” debuted atop the Billboard 200. Savage’s other collaborative albums with Metro Boomin’ and Drake, with whom he also toured, were also chart-toppers. and his duet with J. Cole, “A Lot,” earned both rappers their first Grammys. Savage is good at collaborating. 7 p.m. Tickets start at $42.35 and are available at livenation.com .

Chris Stapleton’s All-America Road Show

Friday, May 31

The celebrated Grammy, CMA, and ACM-winning singer-songwriter-guitarist, whose soulful ballad “Tennesee Whiskey” earned a diamond certification and is covered in bars across America, is still riding high off his latest album “Higher,” which topped the Billboard Country albums. Stapleton will be bringing singer-songwriter Marcus King and the married singing duo The War and Treaty. 7 p.m., Sold out. More information at livenation.com .

TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE : SeatGeek | Vivid Seats | StubHub | Viagogo | TicketCity

More summer concerts cleveland 2024

• Best summer concerts at Northeast Ohio clubs, theaters: How to get tickets
• Best summer concert festivals in Ohio and nearby in 2024: How to buy tickets
• 5 summer concerts worth a road trip: How to get tickets
• 2024 summer stadium concerts in Cleveland: How to get tickets
• Every concert coming to Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in 2024: How to get tickets

NEEDTOBREATHE: The Caves World Tour

Saturday, June 1

The Christian-friendly rock band has long since crossed over in its nine album career and has chart-topping tunes across the Billboard charts, including uplifting anthemic tunes such as “Let’s Stay Home Tonight and “Who Am I.” Judah & The Lion will open the show. Tickets start at $29.95 and are available at. livenation.com .

Kenny Chesney will perform June 6, 2024, at Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls. (Photo by Rick Scuteri/Invision/AP, File) Rick Scuteri/Invision/AP

Kenny Chesney: Sun Goes Down Tour

Thursday, June 6

The long-reigning stadium-filling country superstar, who was the only country artist listed among Billboard’s Top 10 touring acts of the century, is hitting the road behind his 20th studio album “Born,” released in March, and is purposely touring more “intimate” amphitheaters rather than his usual stadiums. Singer-songwriter Megan Moroney will open the show. 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $66.70 and are available at livenation.com .

WHERE TO BUY TICKETS : SeatGeek | Vivid Seats | StubHub | Viagogo | TicketCity

Foreigner & Styx with John Waite – Renegades and Juke Box Heroes Tour

Wed, June 12,

Freshly minted 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Foreigner are on what’s been billed as their farewell tour along with fellow ‘70s and ‘80s classic rock stalwarts Styx and John “Missing You” Waite. Tickets start at $41.30 and are available at livenation.com .

TICKETS : SeatGeek | Vivid Seats | StubHub | Viagogo | TicketCity

New Kids On The Block with Paula Abdul & DJ Jazzy Jeff

Friday, June 14

The ‘80s boy-band-turned-middle-aged-man band seemingly still has the right stuff for their grown fans. NKOTB will be joined by ‘80s pop-dance machine Paula Abdul (no word if MC Skat Kat will be involved) and the erstwhile, pioneering DJ Jazzy Jeff for a fun trip into the musical Wayback Machine. 7 p.m. Tickets start at $32.55 and are available at livenation.com .

Hank Williams Jr.

Friday, June 21

Rockin’ country icon “Bocephus” received critical acclaim for his recent 58th album, “Rich White Honky Blues,” featuring covers of classic blues tunes produced by the Black Keys Dan Auerbach and released on his Easy Eye Sound record label. Fellow legend Marty Stuart & his Fabulous Superlatives and 7 p.m.Tickets start at $54.35 and are available at livenation.com .

Dave Matthews Band will perform June 25 at Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls.. Tim Larsen, AP

Dave Matthews Band

Tuesday, June 25

Another member of the Rock Hall’s class of 2024, the DMB has been a annual visitor to Blossom for much of the century. The band’s tenth studio album, “Walk Around The Moon,” continued its string of hit records by peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard 200. 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $67.20 and are available at livenation.com .

Niall Horan: “The Show” Live on Tour 2024

Wednesday, June 26

The former One Direction member is now a solo singer-songwriter mixing classic Laurel Canyon vibes with synth-pop, rock and other sounds on his latest album, “The Show,” led by the singles “Heaven” and the tense “Meltdown.” 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $29.50 and are available at livenation.com .

Third Eye Blind with Yellowcard – Summer Gods Tour 2024

Friday, July 5

The late ‘90s Bay area alt-pop rockers -- who gave the world “Semi-Charmed Life” and “How’s It Going to Be” -- haven’t released an album since 2021′s “Our Bande Apart.” But they are teaming up to tour with early aughts pop-punkers Yellowcard, whose last album of new material was “Yellowcard” released in 2016. In February, Yellowcard band leader Ryan Key recorded an album of re-arranged Yellowcard covers with the Nasvhile-based post-rock band Hammock. Fortunately, both bands already have a string of fan favorites to play for fans, making the show a comfortable evening of hits. Arizona will open. 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $45.90 and are available at livenation.com .

Norah Jones will perform July 11 at Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls. Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Norah Jones with Mavis Staples

Thursday, July 11

The nine-time Grammy winner released her ninth studio album, the gently soulful and upbeat “Visions,” recorded with the always-busy producer and multi-instrumentalist Leon Michels, in March 2024. Jones will tour with soul legend Mavis Staples, one of her many past duet partners and influences. Staples, a 1999 Rock Hall inductee with her family band The Staples Singers, has enjoyed a late-career renaissance with assistance from talented admirers and songwriters, including Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy, Ben Harper, Neko Case, Valerie June, and others. Her most recently released album was a collaboration with fellow Rock Hall inductee, the late Levon Helm. “Carry Me Home,” recorded in 2011, shortly before the former The Band drummer’s death. 8 p.m. Tickets start at $78.25 and are available available at livenation.com .

MORE WAYS TO GET TICKETS: SeatGeek | Vivid Seats | StubHub | Viagogo | TicketCity

Luke Bryan: Mind of a Country Boy Tour 2024

Friday, July 12

Bryan, an “American Idol” judge and five-time Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year, also holds the very 21st-century distinction of being the most “digital single RIAA certified” country artist of all time with 84 million “digital single units” to go with his 30 No. 1. Dillion Carmichael, Alana Springsteen Larry Fleet and DJ Rock will open. 7 p.m. Tickets start at $89.25 and are available at livenation.com .

TICKETS: SeatGeek | Vivid Seats | StubHub | Viagogo | TicketCity

Train & REO Speedwagon – Summer Road Trip 2024

Monday, July 15

Pop hitmakers Train team up with REO Speedwagon, one of their classic po-rock progenitors, giving fans a night of hits, including the former’s Grammy-winning Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me)” and “Hey, Soul Sister,” and the latter’s ‘70s and ‘80s radio staples, “Ridin’ The Storm Out,” “Keep On Lovin’ You,” and “Can’t Fight This Feeling. 6:25 p.m. Tickets start at $48.65 and are available at livenation.com .

Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire: Heart & Soul Tour 2024

Tuesday, July 16

A pair of Rock Hall inducted groups, Chicago (2016) and Earth, Wind & Fire ( 2000), team up for an evening filled with tunes that resemble the sound of middle and late 1970s radio. So many memorable horn charts on top of so many classic grooves should have the likely Boomer-heavy crowd dancing in their seats. 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $38.55 and are available at livenation.com .

Alanis Morissette will perform July 17 at Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP) Evan Agostini/Invision/AP

Alanis Morissette: The Triple Moon Tour

Wednesday, July 17

Canadian alt-rock goddess Alanis Morissette returns to Blossom with 2015 Rock Hall inductee Joan Jett & The Blackhearts and up-and-coming Nashville singer-songwriter Morgan Wade opening. 7 p.m. Tickets start $25.55 and are available at livenation.com .

Sam Hunt: Locked Up Tour 2024

Friday, July 19

Georgia songwriter turned successful R&B and pop-infused country singer-songwriter with chart-topping hits, including “Leave the Night On” and “Make You Miss Me.” George Birge and Russell Dickerson will open. 7 p.m. Tickets start $48.65 and are available at livenation.com .

Red Hot Chili Peppers: Unlimited Love Tour

Monday, July 22

The 2012 Rock Hall inductees are still offering fans the chance to suck their collective kisses. Fan favorite guitarist John Frusciante returned in 2019, giving RHCP fans who play guitar someone else’s fingers to stare at besides bassist Flea. Seun Kuti and Irontom will open. 7 p.m. Tickets start $115.50 and are available at livenation.com .

Totally Tubular Festival

Sunday, July 28

This flashback show brings together 1980s hitmakers, Thomas Dolby (“She Blinded Me With Science), the Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey (”Hold Me Now”), Modern English (“I Melt With You”), Men Without Hats (“The Safety Dance”), The Romantics (“Talking In Your Sleep”), and Bow Bow Wow (“I Want Candy”). 6 p.m. Tickets start $35.30 and are available at livenation.com .

Sammy Hagar: The Best of All Worlds Tour

Monday, July 29

The Red Rocker plays the hits from his solo career and the Van Hagar era. Canadian rockers Loverboy are also on the bill. 7 p.m. Tickets start $73.35 and are available at livenation.com .

Primus and Coheed and Cambria

Monday, August 5

Two bands with unique and progressive sounds and obsessive fan bases join forces for an unusual evening of unusual music under the Blossom pavilion. 7 p.m. Tickets start $78.25 and are available at livenation.com .

Hozier will perform Aug. 6, 2024, at Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls. (Photo by Andy Kropa/Invision/AP) Andy Kropa/Invision/AP

Hozier - Unreal Unearth Tour 2024

Tuesday, August 6

The “Take Me To Church” singer-songwriter continues touring behind his third album, “Unreal Unearth,” which topped Billboard’s rock, alternative, and folk album charts upon its release in 2023. Singer-songwriter Joy Oladokun opens. Sold out. Go to Livenation.com for more information.

Thirty Seconds To Mars: Seasons World Tour

Wednesday, August 7

The prog-alt-electronic-band led by actor Jared Leto (“Morbius”) and his brother Shannon hit the road to promote their sixth album “It’s the End of the World But It’s a Beautiful Day.” Emo-punks AFI, Youtuber Poppy and Cleveland-born emo-pop-punker KennyHoopla open. 6:30 p.m. Tickets start $41.30 and are available at livenation.com .

John Legend: An Evening with

Thursday, August 8

This show is officially part of the Cleveland Orchestra’s 2024 Blossom Music Festival, but we’ll throw it in here because Legend will be singing many of his past hits and telling stories with accompaniment from conductor Anthony Parnther and the orchestra. 8 p.m.: Tickets start at $54 and are available at seatgeek.com .

Dan + Shay: Heartbreak On The Map Tour

Friday, August 9

The country-pop duo of Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney has torn up the country singles charts with Grammy-winning hits, including “Tequila,” “Speechless,” and the duet with Justin Bieber, “10,000 Hours.” Country hunks Jake Owens and Dylan Marlowe will open. 7 p.m. Tickets start $41.30 and are available at livenation.com .

The Queens of R&B: Xscape & SWV

Saturday, August 10

A quintet of Gen-X R&B queens and princesses unite for an evening of throwback jams, including SWV’s “Right Here,” and Xscape’s “Just Kickin’ It. Also providing the Gen-X jams are Mya, Total and 702. 7 p.m. Tickets start $41.30 and are available at livenation.com .

Kidz Bop Live 2024

Sunday, August 11

The wildly popular record series of kids performing sanitized versions of current pop songs has been taken to the stage. A pavilion only show. 4 p.m. Tickets start $41.30 and are available at livenation.com .

WHERE TO BUY TICKETS: SeatGeek | Vivid Seats | StubHub | Viagogo | TicketCity

Ryan Gosling, left, and Margot Robbie in a scene from "Barbie." (Warner Bros. Pictures via AP) AP

Barbie The Movie: In Concert

Monday, August 12

A screening of “The Barbie Movie” accompanied live by an all-women orchestra conducted by Macy Schmidt. Tickets start $24.55 and are available at livenation.com .

Tedeschi Trucks Band: Deuces Wild 2024

Tuesday, August 13

The married team of slide guitarist Derek Trucks and singer-guitarist Susan Tedeschi returns to Blossom, with special guest Margo Price opening. This is a pavilion-only show. 8 p.m. Tickets start at $24.55 and are available at livenation.com .

Hootie & the Blowfish: Summer Camp with Trucks Tour

Thursday, August 15

‘90s hitmakers return to active duty with fellow ‘90s holdovers Collective Soul and Edwin McCain. 7 p.m. Tickets start at $54.60 and are available at livenation.com .

Human Musical Group Sensations Glass Animals: Tour of Earth

Wednesday, August 21

English pop-rockers will be promoting their upcoming fourth studio album, “I Love You So F***ing Much,” led by the single “Creatures in Heaven.” Rapper singer Kevin Abstract will open. 7:45 p.m. Tickets start at $41.80 and are available at livenation.com .

The Doobie Brothers 2024

Thursday, August 22

The 2020 Rock Hall inductees team up with fellow inductee Steve Winwood, who was inducted as a member of Traffic in 2004, for a bevy of beloved Boomer-era classics. Tickets start at $32.55 and are available at livenation.com .

Rob Zombie and Alice Cooper: Freaks on Parade 2024 Tour

Wednesday, August 28

The original Shock Rocker and the other shock rocker join forces for a co-headlining tour. Ministry and Filter open. 6 p.m. Tickets start at $38.05 and are available at livenation.com .

Pitbull will perform Aug. 29, 2024, at Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls. (Photo by Scott Legato | 313Presents) Scott Legato |313Presents

Pitbull: Party After Dark Tour

Thursday, August 29

Mr. Worldwide tours the world and Ohio with T-Pain opening. 8 p.m. Tickets start at $41.80 and are available at livenation.com .

Avril Lavigne: The Greatest Hits

Friday, September 6

Turn-of-the-century teen pop rock queen takes a victory lap with pop punkers Simple Plan and Girlfriends opening. 7 p.m. Tickets start at $54.74 and are available at livenation.com .

Cage The Elephant: Neon Pill Tour

Monday, September 9

Alt-rockers bring music from their upcoming album “Neon Pill,” due out May 17. Young The Giant and Bakar will open. 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $38.05 and are available at livenation.com .

Stone Temple Pilots & +LIVE+ - The Jubilee Tour

Tuesday, September 10

The reborn STP with new singer Jeff Gutt comes with the reunited LIVE. to ensure the ‘90s live on. 7 p.m. Tickets start at $78.25 and are available at livenation.com .

Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, John Mellencamp: Outlaw Music Festival

Thursday, September 12

The trio of music legends and friends bring outlaw music to Blossom. 5:30 p.m. Tickets start at $63.70 and are available at livenation.com .

TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE: SeatGeek | Vivid Seats | StubHub | Viagogo | TicketCity

Parker McCollum: Burn It Down Tour

Friday, September 13

Country singer-songwriter riding high on his fourth consecutive number single “Burn It Down.” Chayce Beckham opens. 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $41.30 and are available at livenation.com .

Sum 41: Tour of the Setting Sum

Sunday, September 15

Another early aughts pop-punk band, with heavy metal seasoning flogging a new and reportedly final record. The well-received double album, “Heaven:x:Hell” was released in March. Many Eyes and The Interrupters will open. 7 p.m. Tickets start at $54.35 and are available at livenation.com .

Vampire Weekend - ‘Only God Was Above Us’ Tour

Thursday, September 19

The hip indie rockers return with their first new album in five years. Cults will open. 7 p.m. Tickets start at $27.05 and are available at livenation.com .

The National and The War On Drugs with Special Guest Lucius

Saturday, September 21

Beloved turn-of-the-century indie rockers from the heart of Cincinnati on a double bill with The War On Drugs. Lucius opens. 6:45 p.m. Tickets start at $55.35 and are available at livenation.com .

Meghan Trainor: The Timeless Tour

Friday, September 27

She wants everyone to know that she is about more than simply “that bass,” with her first tour in seven years. Paul Russell and Ryan Trainor will open. 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $35.30 and are available at livenation.com .

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.