3 places to visit in tokyo

Tokyo   Travel Guide

19 Essential Things to Do in Tokyo + Neighborhoods to Visit

With more than 13 million residents to entertain, Tokyo has a lot going on. Start your morning off with breakfast sushi at the world-famous Tsukiji Outer Market , then let yourself get lost in Japan's vast and interesting history at the Tokyo

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Just to the west of downtown Tokyo lies a gorgeous urban oasis. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden comprises 144 acres of green space and is unique in that it incorporates three landscaping styles – Japanese traditional, French formal and English garden. During the spring, the park gets an extra boost in visitors for its vibrant display of cherry blossoms. If you plan on visiting during this beautiful time, make like a local and come to the park equipped with picnic supplies. Autumn is another popular time to visit thanks to the bright fall foliage, which usually peaks between mid-November and mid-December.

Travelers say the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. Even if you don't have a couple hours to spare for a picnic, visitors say a short stroll is enough to take up the park's peaceful atmosphere. Travelers also report that there are plenty of amenities within the park, including restrooms, places to eat, as well as a greenhouse and teahouse.

Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa free

The oldest religious site in Tokyo is also its most visited. The Senso-ji Temple sees about 30 million annual visitors and its inception dates all the way back to year 628. Despite its claim to antiquity, however, the structures that currently stand are relatively new reconstructions of previous edifices (during World War II, nearly the entire temple was razed). The Senso-ji Temple is dedicated to Asakusa Kannon, the Buddhist god of mercy and happiness. According to legend, two fishermen struck gold and found a statue of the god while fishing on the Sumida River. The Senso-ji shrine is dedicated to this lucky catch and features a small homage to the fisherman who caught the statue. Unfortunately, while here, you won't be able to see the actual statue. It is there, but it isn't on public display (it never has been). Either way, Buddhists and interested tourists alike flock to this attraction with the hopes that being in the presence of Kannon's healing powers will rub off on them. After you've properly toured Senso-ji, take some time to check out the shops that line Nakamise Dori, which you'll find on the way to the temple. 

The majority of travelers enjoyed their experience at the Senso-ji Temple, with some saying a visit to Tokyo isn’t complete until make a stop here. Visitors found the temple to be beautiful and enjoyed admiring its grand stature and intricate architectural details. The only complaint among travelers was with the attraction and all the activity surrounding it; Senso-ji can get so crowded that it can be difficult to be able to simply admire the attraction. If you don't want to share space with throngs of tourists, visitors suggest coming early morning or late at night. 

Meiji Shrine Meiji Shrine free

The Meiji Shrine is a Shinto (Japan's original religion) shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Japanese history credits Meiji for modernizing Japan by incorporating Western principles into Japanese society, including adopting a cabinet system into government. After the emperor's death in 1912 and that of his consort in 1914, the Japanese commemorated their contributions with the Meiji Shrine. While the buildings are certainly worth visiting, the surrounding forest (considered part of the vast Yoyogi Park) is a sight to see as well. That's because 100,000 of the trees standing were all donated by Japanese people from around the country as a thank you to the emperor.

While at such a sacred site, take time to partake in traditional rituals. When entering the shrine, you'll first see the Torii , or the shrine's large archway. It's traditional to bow once entering, then again when you leave. To foreigners, the Temizusha may appear to be a drinking fountain, but it's actually a cleansing station where visitors have the opportunity to purify themselves with holy water. It's common to wash your hands and rinse your mouth out, but don't drink the water. When approaching the main shrine, it's customary to pay your respects by bowing twice, then clapping your hands twice and bow once again. Carrying out such respects are optional, the rules of the shrine are not. Don't photograph the interior of the buildings; don't eat, drink or smoke unless you're in designated areas.

Popular Tours

Private One-way Narita Airport Transfer To / From Tokyo

from $ 114.77

Mt Fuji, Hakone Lake Ashi Cruise Bullet Train Day Trip from Tokyo

(5783 reviews)

from $ 148.37

Mt Fuji and Hakone 1-Day Bus Tour Return by Bullet Train

(9339 reviews)

from $ 159.09

Ueno Park Ueno Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Take a 20-minute walk northwest of Ueno Park to the more than 100,000-square-foot Yanaka Cemetery, the first public burial ground in Tokyo and an oasis of foliage and historical importance. It’s particularly beautiful to visit during cherry blossom season. – Kristin Braswell

Considered the first public park in Tokyo, Ueno is an ideal place for a leisurely stroll in the city. Formerly part of Kaneiji Temple, Ueno Park is now home to the Ueno Zoo (considered Japan's oldest zoo), six museums, a number of shrines and temples, and more than 1,000 cherry blossom trees. During late March and early April, the park’s canopy of cherry blossoms attract visitors from all over the world for hanami parties – which is when people gather under the trees for picnics and socializing. Museums on the grounds include the Tokyo National Museum , the National Museum for Western Art, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum and the National Science Museum. 

Tokyo Tower Tokyo Tower

The Japanese iteration of the Eiffel Tower serves a predominately practical purpose. The orange and white tower, which stands 1,092 feet tall, is a radio and television broadcasting structure supporting 62 miles of frequencies. The tower also caters to tourists, offering two observation decks, one at 490 feet (the main observatory) and one at 820 feet (the special observatory). The observation decks offer 360-degree views of Tokyo's sprawling cityscape and come equipped with placards that point out notable buildings in the skyline. And if you visit on a really clear day, you'll be able to spot Mount Fuji in the distance. The Tokyo Tower also has its own cafe, where patrons can sip tea while admiring the views, as well as Club 333, a music venue that hosts performances daily. And if you're on the hunt for souvenirs, travelers say this is a surprisingly great place to peruse thanks to all the on-site shops.

The best time to visit the Tokyo Tower is at night, according to reviewers. That's because the tower lights up beautifully, and often in multiple colors depending on when you visit. You'll also encounter stunning vistas from atop Tokyo SkyTree, a much taller tower located about 8 miles northwest, but you'll have to combat hordes of fellow tourists. Recent visitors said of the two towers, this one is less crowded.   

Shibuya Crossing Shibuya Crossing free

U.S. News Insider Tip: After the rush of Shibuya Crossing, walk 15 minutes to Cat Street, a pedestrianized stretch with fewer crowds and chic shopping. Pop into TRUNK hotel for a coffee or a cocktail in its popular lobby, which is open to the public. – Kristin Braswell

Behold: a whirlwind of bodies moving somehow in seamlessly concerted motion at Shibuya Crossing – a must-see in Tokyo. The popular pedestrian scramble located in front of the Shibuya Station Hachiko exit is considered the busiest intersection in the world, welcoming upward of 3,000 people every two minutes across its five major crosswalks. The hypnotic waltz under Shibuya’s towering neon buildings is quintessential Tokyo: busy, yet somehow still orderly and seamless. A major transportation hub, Shibuya Station connects the city’s major neighborhoods, including Harajuku and Roppongi. 

Ginza Ginza free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Tucked on an alleyway, Kagari Ramen offers a not-to-miss truffle chicken ramen that people begin to line up for in the early afternoon. Get there early and grab a ticket for entrance.  – Kristin Braswell

New York has Fifth Avenue, London has Bond Street, Paris has the Champs-Élysées and Tokyo has Ginza. The neighborhood is a shopper's paradise, housing all types of storefronts from affordable, big-name retailers, such as H&M and Zara, to upscale design houses, such as Dior, Armani and Cartier. You can also find specialty stores selling traditional items, such as kimonos, incense and chopsticks. There's also a plethora of Hello Kitty products at the Sanrio flagship store located here, as well as all the toys your kid's heart desires at the massive Hakuhinkan Toy Park. 

Tokyo Station Tokyo Station free

An underground maze and city unto itself in Marunouchi business district, Tokyo Station is a major gateway for travelers arriving and departing the city. More than 3,000 trains come through the station each day, making it the busiest transportation hub in Japan. Some of the most popular trains that make a stop at Tokyo station include the JR Yamanote line, which circles through some of the city’s most famous commercial neighborhoods, as well as various bullet trains (called Shinkansen) that transport travelers throughout Japan – from Kyoto to as far south as Kyushu. A terminal on the Yaesu side exit is the stopping point for a number of buses that connect to the rest of the country, as well as Tokyo’s two airports, Haneda and Narita.

If you get overwhelmed in the station, you wouldn’t be the first. Fortunately, there are a number of English-speaking tourist stands that can help you navigate the best way to your destination. These include the JR EAST Travel Service center outside of the Marunouchi North Exit ticket gate, which offers support for international tourists, including directions to exchanging money; it's open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. It’s also a popular location to pick up the Japan Rail Pass, a transportation option sold exclusively to tourists who enter Japan on a temporary visitor visa that provides discounted unlimited rides around the country for a set amount of time. You can learn more about how to purchase the pass and the specific routes and costs here . Other central information centers in Tokyo Station include the Central Corridor and Marunouchi Central information counters, open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. 

Official Street Go-Kart Tour - Tokyo Bay Shop

(1274 reviews)

from $ 128.14

Private Tokyo Tour with a Local Guide: Tailored to Your Interests

(503 reviews)

from $ 120.87

Mt. Fuji Private Tour with English Speaking Driver

(235 reviews)

from $ 511.20

Akihabara Akihabara free

Akihabara is nirvana for techies. Tokyo's premier electronics district, which is also referred to as "Akiba," has gadgets of all kinds found in booths on side streets and main street mega department stores. You'll spot the latest technology on the shelves, which will probably put your equipment to shame. And if you're in the market for hard-to-find bibs or bobs, you're likely to find that here, too. If you're unsure where to start, stop at the larger-than-life Yodobashi Camera store (often billed as the largest electronics store in the world) or stroll along the neighborhood's main street, Chuo Dori, which becomes car-free on Sundays for select hours. In addition to being an electronics hub, Akihabara also caters to serious gamers, anime and manga lovers. Here, you'll find loads of gaming arcades as well as shops and street stalls selling comics and character figurines. You'll also probably spot a few cosplayers casually walking down the street. 

While Akihabara is no doubt unique, recent travelers had mixed reviews about the district. Those who expressed interest in anime loved their visit, saying you can't leave Tokyo without experiencing the world Akihabara has to offer for fans. Those without a greater interest in the subject matter enjoyed the buzzing activity and plethora of neon signage that permeated the area, but ended up growing bored after a period of time. Some were offended by the inappropriate nature of some of the anime culture (think: maid cafes), so this area may not be suitable for all travelers. Visitors solely interested in shopping for electronics felt overwhelmed by the options and recommended researching in advance to maximize your time in the neighborhood. 

Tokyo National Museum Tokyo National Museum

If you're looking to learn a little (or a lot) about Japan's history, the Tokyo National Museum is the place to go. This museum is one of the country's most expansive, housing about 120,000 pieces of art and artifacts that cover the longest recorded history of Japan. Strolling through the halls of its numerous buildings, you'll spot relics such as samurai armor and swords (a traveler favorite), delicate pottery, kimonos, calligraphy, paintings, and much more, some of which are designated as national treasures and “important cultural properties” by the Japanese government. In addition to artifacts from Japan's history, you'll also find pieces from all across the Asian continent, including Buddhist scrolls that date all the way back to the 7th century.

Travelers were impressed with all that the Tokyo National Museum has to offer. Even some who admitted they aren't "museum people" enjoyed the variety of unique artifacts on display. Travelers appreciated that the museum featured English translations, something that some visitors noticed other Tokyo top attractions lacked (like the Ghibli Museum ). Museum goers also say that there is so much to see in the Tokyo National Museum that you probably need an entire day if you want to get through everything. If you don't have enough time to do this (or just don't want to) the best thing to do is get a map of the museum beforehand and pick what you want to do before you venture in. 

Odaiba Odaiba free

Envision a mini Atlantis rising out of the water, conveniently right next to downtown Tokyo. That's Odaiba. This neighborhood and human-made island situated on the Tokyo Bay is a hub of entertainment, eateries and eye-catching architecture, including the futuristic-looking Fuji Television building and the life-size Unicorn Gundam Statue. Some of the area's top attractions include the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation and the relaxing Odaiba Seaside Park, which comes equipped with an artificial beach and Tokyo's own Statue of Liberty (scaled down). 

Along with the Legoland Discovery Center, there’s also the DiverCity Tokyo Plaza and Decks Tokyo Beach facility, which offers lots in the way of dining and shopping in addition to entertainment options. 

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building free

There are plenty of skyscrapers that provide a bird's-eye lookout in Tokyo, including Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree. So what makes the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Tower special? It's free! The nearly 800-foot-tall building houses two observatories (North and South observatory) that are the highest vantage points (at around 660 feet) that you can reach in the city without having to hand over some yen. 

Travelers loved their experience at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building because it was so fuss-free. Free admission, few lines, speedy elevators, helpful customer service and no time restrictions at the top was ideal for travelers who were looking to take their time with the incredible views. The observatories offer 360-degree views of the city and visitors say on a clear day, Mount Fuji is visible in the distance. If you can, travelers suggest visiting at sunset; the transition from day to night, when some say truly Tokyo comes to life, is magical.

Daikanyama Daikanyama free

If you’re looking to recharge in Tokyo, consider Daikanyama, a tree-lined neighborhood with a trendy, quiet side that’s often referred to as Tokyo’s own Brooklyn. Just south of Shibuya, the district is a peaceful retreat from the towering buildings of its neighbors. The pedestrian-only streets are filled with boutique shops, restaurants, small parks, cafes, and the city’s biggest bookstore: Daikanyama T-Site. Plan to spend several hours roaming T-site’s three buildings, which are filled with a collection of books, magazines and music. Then, have a coffee or cocktail at its on-site cafe, Anjin Library & Lounge, which is filled with plush brown leather couches and a number of tables. Log Road is another must-see in the neighborhood. Built on the train tracks of the old Tokyu train line, this outdoor shopping complex features a brewery and a bakery that are housed in wood cottage buildings surrounded by greenery and a number of places to sit and picnic. Daikanyama is also popular for brunch spots like Garden House Crafts and Ivy Place. 

Visitors call T-Site one of the best bookstores they’ve ever visited, reminiscent of a beautifully designed college campus. They call Daikanyama a mix of modern and traditional Japan and recommend visiting Saigoyama Park for a stroll and sunset watching. 

1-Day Tokyo Bus Tour

(5848 reviews)

from $ 117.59

Private Custom Tour: Tokyo in a Day

(832 reviews)

from $ 176.69

Scenic Spots of Mt Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi 1 Day Bus Tour

(259 reviews)

from $ 82.95

National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)

The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, commonly referred to as the Miraikan, attests to Tokyo's entrepreneurial spirit and penchant for science and technological innovation. This high-tech museum features a plethora of exciting interactive displays spread across three themed permanent exhibits. In "Explore The Frontiers," visitors can learn about space exploration by stepping into a model of the International Space Station. There's also "Discover Your Earth," where you'll find a large LED-paneled Earth sculpture, as well as the robotics-heavy "Create Your Future" exhibit. Make sure you get an eyeful of Honda's impressive ASIMO robot while here. ASIMO has opposable thumbs, can run, and even kick a soccer ball (as it did with President Obama in his 2014 visit to the museum). Kids will particularly enjoy the displays as they can touch, climb on and play with many of them. The museum also features science workshops for kids, talks from researchers and the Dome Theater GAIA. 

Despite its draw, many travelers offered mixed reviews of the museum. Some reported feeling like kids, amazed at the vast amount of things to learn and do, while other adults said the museum is best suited for children. Some visitors also found the exhibits to be lacking, saying the information provided was very basic. Those who did bring their kids in tow said they had a ball.

Imperial Palace Imperial Palace free

You'd think the Imperial Palace would be mobbed with tourists, but it's not. You can credit the lack of crowds to an application policy, which limits the number of visitors. That's because the Imperial Palace is home to the Emperor of Japan and his immediate family. And before that, it was the residence for some of Japan's most important figures, including Emperor Meiji (credited for modernizing Japan) and rulers during the Edo Period (the time period before Japan was modernized by Meiji). Because of its significant importance in Japanese society, admittance to the site is hard to get (you have to put in your application several weeks in advance) and access inside the actual palace is even more restricted.

As such, most travelers suggest skipping the application entirely (those who went on the tour were disappointed with how little of the palace is open to visitors) and admiring the compound from afar. Visitors also say the East Gardens, which are part of the Imperial Palace complex, are much more of a sight to see. This flourishing green space has plenty of shady spots and open fields, perfect for relaxing. And during cherry blossom season, these gardens are a choice spot for locals looking to enjoy the seasonal foliage. 

Shimokitazawa Shimokitazawa free

A hub for vintage shops, cafes and restaurants, Shimokitazawa continues to gain popularity among Tokyo’s young crowds and students who are drawn to its bohemian energy. Commonly known as "Shimokita," the largely residential district in west Tokyo’s Setagaya neighborhood was once a haven for hippies who migrated to the neighborhood in the 1970s. Today, a network of streets are home to busy cafes, indie cinemas, music venues and tons of thrift shopping. A philosophy called “Shimokita style” embraces reusing clothing and antiques, but also a slower pace to enjoy life. 

Small, independently owned stores are the neighborhood’s pride, with Ocean Blvd. store – just a few steps from Shimokitazawa Station, being a great starting point for thrift shopping. Other popular thrift stores include Chicago, Flamingo and New York Joe Exchange. 

Ghibli Museum Ghibli Museum

Both avid and amateur anime fans love the Ghibli Museum. The museum showcases the work of Hayao Miyazaki's Studio Ghibli – the famous Japanese animation company that produced films like "Spirited Away" and "Ponyo." Don't expect formal, indoor exhibits. The facility's quirky interior design mimics the animation studio. There's also a play area for kids (which comes equipped with a life-size, fuzzy Cat Bus), a reading room full of books recommended by the museum and a rooftop garden that features character sculptures, including the silent robots from "Castle In The Sky." You can even watch a short film that plays exclusively at the museum and rotates each month. 

Considering how difficult it is to secure tickets and the museum's removed location, travelers say visiting this attraction is only worth the extra effort if you're a Miyazaki fan. Devotees loved having the opportunity to get lost in the director's magical world, which many say the museum executed just about perfectly. The only complaint? The expensive gift shop. Even avid fans were disappointed with some of the shop's high prices. English-speaking travelers also warned that English signs and placards are few and far between here. 

Shinjuku Golden Gai Shinjuku Golden Gai

Explore some 200 bars in this narrow maze of alleyways. A remnant of post-war 1950s Tokyo, this district was once a black market that evolved into a number of small, makeshift bars. Today, stretched across six dimly lit streets (called yokocho) in Tokyo’s Shinjuku neighborhood, Golden Gai (which means "golden block") is jampacked – literally – with bars that are ideal for any night owl. Most bars open around 8 p.m., though many don’t get lively until nearly midnight. Be aware that most bars charge an entrance fee for a seat, which is typically around 1,000 yen (about $7). As you roam Golden Gai, your biggest question will be which bar to choose. Start with any themes that may catch your eye, like Albatross, a two-floor Gothic-inspired den that has enough room for small groups, or Happy, a tiny bar that features vintage rock and soul albums. There are a few food options in Golden Gai as well, like a noodle shop called Ramen Nagi, located on the second floor of a wooden house. 

You should be prepared to rub shoulders with strangers, as many of Golden Gai’s bars are only a few feet wide and seat a handful of people. Because bars have limited seating, some may display signs that say “regulars only” or “no tourists,” and it's important to respect that. Don’t worry though, there are plenty of tourist-friendly and English-speaking options to choose from. 

Tokyo Sumo Entertainment Show with Chicken Hot Pot and Photo

(19 reviews)

from $ 107.90

Mt. Fuji Private Tour by Car with Pick-up from Tokyo

(216 reviews)

from $ 532.33

Official Street Go-Kart in Shibuya

(949 reviews)

from $ 101.16

Tsukiji Outer Market Tsukiji Outer Market free

You don’t have to be a sushi connoisseur to enjoy the Tsukiji Outer Market, which offers an unforgettable experience. Even before Tokyo’s international wholesale fish market – the largest in the world – moved to the Toyosu district in 2018, the Tsukiji Outer Market was a popular place to buy a variety of food and kitchenware. Today, hundreds of different types of seafood are sold here, ranging from basics (like tuna) to the exotic. If all the excitement and bartering starts to make you a little hungry, don't hesitate to grab a bite here. There are numerous sushi stalls and tiny restaurants in the market (Sushi Sei Honten and Sushizanmai are popular spots) that serve fish at their freshest. But if you aren't much of a seafood fan, no matter. There's still something for you here. The market features a few ready-made meal stalls that aren't all seafood-based, including Mosuke Dango, where you'll find sweet dumplings. What’s more, retail stalls selling kitchenware items like knives and tableware also set up shop.

Recent visitors offered mixed reviews for the Tsukiji Outer Market, noting that prices were higher than the original market that moved to Toyosu. If you're not a fan of seafood, or you don't enjoy overstimulating and/or crowded places, visitors say this is not the attraction for you. Travelers say this market is huge and very busy, especially on Saturdays. Those who do enjoy seafood will no doubt be in awe of the vast array of fresh and delectable seafood options available, so much so that reviewers strongly suggest coming hungry as you'll probably end up eating more than you planned. Travelers were also delighted in the market's lack of a pungent, fishy smell. 

Explore More of Tokyo

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

We’re in Myanmar right now and it’s SO epic… click here to follow along on Instagram.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Asia » Japan » Tokyo

26 BEST Places to Visit in Tokyo (2024)

Tokyo is simply out of this world, with its amazing food and endless entertainment options. It’s the go-to place if you want to dive into a culture completely different from your own. This city is a rollercoaster of excitement, sometimes a bit quirky, but definitely a must-visit at least once in your lifetime. Whether you’re into shopping, trying new cuisines, or just soaking in different lifestyles, Tokyo has it all.

However, the catch is, it can be a bit heavy on the wallet. Tokyo stands out as one of the pricier cities in Asia for both travel and living expenses, which might be a hurdle if you’re on a tight budget. But fear not! You don’t need to empty your pockets to have a blast in Tokyo. With a bit of caution and some smart choices in activities and places to visit, you can have an incredible time without burning a hole in your wallet.

To steer you toward budget-friendly activities, affordable hotels, and places that won’t make you regret checking your bank account, here’s your guide to making the most of this fantastic city without breaking the bank.

Let’s go!

Need a Place Quick? Here’s the Best Neighborhood in Tokyo:

These are the best places to visit in tokyo, faq on the best places to visit in tokyo.

While Tokyo can be very expensive , there are still great accommodation options available. From a cool Tokyo hostel to a comfy hotel, here are three great places to stay in Tokyo :

If you like to be near to the Tokyo places to visit, Shinjuku is often said to be the city’s tourism heart and soul. Skyscrapers make for a dazzling skyline and bright neon lights cannot help but grab your attention.

• Shop till you drop at places like Odakyu, Lumine, Beams Japan, and Takashimaya Times Square.
• Stroll around the old-world area of Golden Gai.
• Go bar hopping in Kabukicho.

When you’re backpacking around Japan your first stop has gotta be the crazy capital of Tokyo!

There’s a lot to do here so you’re going to need to plan your trip and pick the Tokyo tourist attractions you really want to prioritise.

PS: Tokyo is a great place to visit in August , unlike many other places around the world!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

#1 – Meji Shrine – One of the Most Religious Places to See in Tokyo

• A working Shinto Shrine where you can take part in traditional rituals.
• You can’t photograph the inside of the shrine, but you’ll get some good shots out of the outside.

Why it’s so awesome : Japan’s religions are quite different from Western beliefs. One of the oldest religious systems in the country is called Shinto, and it’s this religion that allowed Japan to accept and incorporate western influences into its culture while still holding on to its own uniqueness. The Meji Shrine is one of the most important Shinto shrines in the city and is surrounded by a huge park that’s a striking reminder of how well the city incorporates ultra-modern architecture with the natural world.

What to do there: The Meji shrine is still a functioning shrine so make sure you take part in a ritual while you’re there. This is a serene, peaceful area, so refrain from eating or smoking except in marked areas and keep your voice down in respect to the other visitors. Outside of the shrine is a large archway called a Torii. It’s traditional to bow at these gates when you enter and when you leave.

There is also a drinking fountain inside and it supplies water to purify visitors. You can wash your hands, but don’t drink the water or allow the wooden dippers to touch your lips. When you approach the shrine itself, it’s traditional to bow twice, clap your hands twice, make a wish, and bow again. You obviously don’t have to take part in any of these rituals, but it’s a nice way to be a part of this Tokyo landmark rather than just staring at it.

#2 – Tokyo National Museum

• A chance for you to explore the history of this fascinating country!
• The national museum is one of the biggest museums in the country.
• You’ll see everything from samurai swords to Buddhist scrolls at the national museum.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’ve ever been fascinated by the stories of the samurai, kimonos, or unique pottery items, then you’ll find them all at the national museum. It’s one of the biggest museums in the country, with over 116,000 pieces of art, so you’re bound to find something amazing to learn about.

What to do there : While you’re in the museum, make sure you explore the displays that will help you learn about the parts of Japanese culture that are most interesting to you. For most people, this would be the samurai sword display and armor or the kimonos. But take the chance to explore other facets of Japan’s history as well at the national museum. It’s so different from western history and most of the art created throughout Japan’s history is staggeringly beautiful, so don’t miss it.

With a Tokyo City Pass , you can experience the best of Tokyo at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Sensoji Temple & Asakusa District – One of the most incredible places to go to in Tokyo

• Located in busy, local-focused Asakusa, so you can shop and eat while you’re there.
• You’ll get some amazing photos in this area of not only the temple but the incredible gardens as well.
• A popular tourist site that’s still a working temple, so you’ll see people burning incense and praying while you’re there.

Why it’s so awesome : Sensoji Temple looms out of the center of the otherwise modern neighborhood where it lives as if it’s been transported from another time. This is the oldest temple to see while traveling in Tokyo and it’s also the most popular among tourists and locals. Dating back to 628, the temple looks old but was actually reconstructed after its destruction during the Second World War. But you wouldn’t know from being there, as it looks and smells like it’s been soaking up incense for longer than you can imagine.

What to do there: This is actually a functioning temple so be respectful of the locals you see praying and burning incense inside. This temple is a big part of the locals’ most deeply held beliefs and they often come to ask for healing or help. It’s a really crowded landmark, so plan to visit either early in the morning or late at night if you want to avoid the crowds. But apart from that, just wander the site and take pictures from every angle. And when you’re done, take a walk and find somewhere to eat, there are plenty of places nearby to choose from!

#4 – Tokyo Imperial Palace

• The Palace has stunning grounds and you’ll get some amazing pictures.
• It’s still used as one of the homes of the Japanese imperial family.
• There’s a limit to how many people can enter the grounds, so make sure you apply for a ticket rather than just showing up.

Why it’s so awesome : Japanese architecture and their sense of aesthetics are different from anywhere else in the world and they’re both absolutely stunning. The Imperial Palace is a good example of this sense of grace and beauty. And the grounds are no different. Japanese gardens are probably the most stunning in the world, and the Imperial Palace is surrounded by some of the best examples of these gardens that you’ll ever see. You won’t regret adding them to your Tokyo itinerary !

What to do there : This is an important historical site and it’s also the home of the imperial family today, so you’ll need to apply several weeks in advance to get admittance to the site. And you probably won’t be able to go inside the building at all, as these passes are even rarer. But the grounds here are stunning, particularly the East Garden, which is a lush, natural space that’s designed in the traditional Japanese style.

#5 – Odaiba – Cool place to see in Tokyo with friends!

• The entertainment centre of the city.
• Includes enough museums and beaches and other attractions to keep you busy for days, if not weeks!

Why it’s so awesome: Odaiba is a neighborhood set on a mini island in the middle of Tokyo Bay and it’s the center of entertainment, eating, and cool architecture in the city. Whatever type of attractions you enjoy you’ll find here, from museums to beaches, a Statue of Liberty, and amusement parks. Whether you’re traveling with kids, family, or friends, everyone will definitely find something to do here.

What to do there : What do you want to do? If you enjoy trying all the food that Tokyo has to offer, then you’ll find eateries here to satiate every taste. If you enjoy museums, then you should go to the Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation. There are amusement parks where you can ride go-karts and Ferris wheels and you can even go to the Legoland Discovery Center!

Whatever you want to do, you’ll find something here that will suit your taste. And if you have the time, make sure you visit the Ooedo-Onsen-Monogatari, which is a hot springs theme park where you can wear a traditional yukata and relax in a variety of different natural baths. It’s a perfect place to relax after the stress of the city!

#6 – The Ginza – A great place in Tokyo if you love to shop!

• One of the best shopping areas in the city.
• Take advantage of high-end shopping as well as small, quirky shops that sell things you’ll only find in Japan!

Why it’s so awesome : Most cities have one shopping area that dominates over all the others and for Japan, it’s the Ginza. You’ll find big-name shops like H&M, design houses like Armani and Cartier as well as traditional stores that sell all the souvenirs you could ever want to take home. There are also some quirkier choices, such as stores dedicated to buttons and charcoal beauty products, so make sure you check everything out.

What to do there : If you enjoy shopping, you don’t need to be told what to do in this area. Shop until you drop. Make sure you look for souvenirs like kimonos and incense as well if you have people back home you need to buy gifts for. And even if you’re not a big shopper, there’s still a lot to do in this area. There are more than 200 art galleries in the area, some of the best eateries and restaurants, and theatres where you can catch one of Japan’s famous kabuki performances!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#7 – National Museum of Emerging Science and Technology – Awesome Place to Visit in Tokyo With Kids!

• A place that will prove to you just how innovative and technology-focused Japan is.
• Contains more interactive displays then you could imagine.
• No matter what part of science you’re interested in, you’ll find something fascinating to do here.

Why it’s so awesome : This museum is one of the best in the world and it was born from and highlights Japan’s obsession with technology and innovation. It’s a fun and fascinating place to spend some time in regardless of whether you’re a child or just a big kid, and you could spend hours here exploring every facet of Japan’s interest in technology!

What to do there : if you’re interested in space, try the Explore the Frontiers display, where you can walk into a model of the International Space Station, complete with autographs from history’s most famous astronauts. You can learn about robots in the Create Your Future exhibit, explore an LED Earth sculpture in the Discover Your Earth exhibit or enjoy an educational movie at the Gaia 3D home theater. Basically, this museum will make you feel like a big kid, rushing around too excited to choose just one thing to look at. And recapturing that feeling is amazing on its own!

#8 – Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Tokyo

• A beautiful, natural place in the middle of the city.
• Japan has a talent for including huge swaths of nature in the middle of cities and this park is one of the best examples of that.
• Take photos or just relax and enjoy the scenery!

Why it’s so awesome : Japan is a city that loves technology, skyscrapers, and modern everything and yet the designers of it recognized that nature was vital as well and incorporated lots of amazing parks in the city. The Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one example of that foresight and it makes up for the best day trip in Tokyo . The gardens within are landscaped in 3 different styles, Japanese traditional, French Formal, and English Garden, and exploring these natural surroundings could probably take you a whole afternoon!

What to do there : There is a small entrance fee to this park, but once you’re in you’ll probably want to spend all day there. Make sure you check out the different landscaping styles, and if you’re there in spring, definitely take a picnic and sit out under the cherry trees. This is a traditional spring activity in Japan for a good reason! Mostly, this is a place to sit and relax from the busyness of the city. Take a walk, have a picnic, or find one of the park’s teahouses or eateries and have a snack surrounded by nature.

#9 – Tokyo SkyTree

• You can get a bird’s eye view of the whole city from the top of the Tokyo Skytree
• Getting up to the observation deck requires a ticket to get up the tallest building in Japan
• Walk over the class floor for views the whole way to the ground 1,150-foot (350-m) below!
• See Mount Fuji on a clear day from the Tokyo Skytree

Why it’s so awesome : The Tokyo SkyTree has two observatories that are the highest in the city, so basically, you’ll get the best view of Tokyo when you spend some time in this building. It’s really easy and well organized to get to the top observation deck and despite the 1,150-foot (350-m) height, you’re transported to the top in the super quick lift in no time! On a clear day, you can even see Mount Fuji from the Tokyo Skytree.

It’s possibly the most popular tourist attraction in the city with many tourists visiting each day, so be sure to buy tickets before to make sure you don’t miss out on this epic Tokyo sightseeing experience.

What to do there: One of the biggest draws of the Tokyo Skytree building is the fact that there isn’t a limit on how long you spend at the observation deck. So you can take as many photos as you want and then just relax and take in the views of Mount Fuji with no one hurrying you along. When you’re done with the view, there are some great restaurants on the same floor, so stop in for a meal. For an extra bonus, time your visit to coincide with the sunset for some truly spectacular views and photographs.

#10 – Ghibli Museum

• If you know anything about Japanese animation, this is its home.
• A chance to experience the magic and the mystery of Japan’s unique creative spirit and its most famous dreamer.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’ve ever watched Japanese cinema then you’ve probably seen a movie by Studio Ghibli. They make some of Japan’s most popular and magical animated films including Spirited Away, which won an Oscar for the best-animated movie in 2003. This studio is headed by Hayao Miyazaki and the museum is just as quirky as the films.

What to do there : It’s notoriously difficult to get tickets to see the Ghibli Museum , but if you’re a fan of the movies then it’s worth making the effort because you’ll have a magical visit. Make sure you give yourself enough time to enjoy this informal, unusual museum. There’s a play area for kids that includes a cat bus from one of the movies and a rooftop garden with sculptures of popular characters from the movies.

You should also make sure you see the short film they have featured because it changes every month and you won’t see it anywhere else. Just be aware that this museum doesn’t cater to tourists, so most of the signs are in Japanese, and you might find it a little difficult to find your way around.

#11 – Akihabara – An awesome place to visit in Tokyo for half a day!

• The centre of Tokyo’s tech frenzy!
• A great place to visit if you’re a gamer or interested in getting your hands on the latest technological marvel.
• This area also caters to anime lovers, so if you enjoy this genre then you should definitely explore it.

Why it’s so awesome : This suburb is where you can buy almost any piece of technology or game that’s on the market at the moment. It’s basically street after street that’s dedicated to computers and gadgets. You’ll find gaming arcades, shops that sell anime and cosplay goods, and more neon signs than you could ever read. Also, you can feel like you are in a video game by dressing up and riding the streets in go-karts!

What to do there: If you’re headed to Akihabara to buy something specific, make sure you do your research beforehand. The shops and streets full of tech shops are vast and it’s easy to get lost and walk away empty-handed. Also, be a little careful about bringing young children to the area. Anime culture isn’t all clouds and pretty graphics and it’s quite different to how people in the west think of cartoons. Because this area is dedicated to anime lovers, you may see some of these elements in the streets. And not all of them will be appropriate for very young children to experience.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

#12 – Tokyo Tower

• A great place for a photo op.
• Relaxed, varied dining area on the lower floors where you can pick up snacks from all over the world.

Why it’s so awesome : This building is a landmark. Standing 1,092 feet above the city it actually has a very practical purpose and transmits television and radio over the city. The building was modelled on the Eiffel Tower and it does bear more than a passing resemblance to this famous structure. But the tower isn’t just practical. It has observation decks where you can get a great view of the city and a shopping and restaurant area in the lower sections where you can pick up souvenirs or have a great meal.

What to do there : The Tokyo Tower has two observation decks at different heights, so make sure you go up during the day or night to take photos of the city. They also have guides on these decks who can point out important buildings on the Tokyo skyline. If you want to take in the view and have a coffee at the same time, you can visit the café there or go downstairs to the lower floors. The restaurants in Tokyo Tower are great and there’s also a floor dedicated to stalls selling a wide variety of different snacks and foods from other countries. So if you go there for a meal, you’ll be absolutely spoiled for choice. And it’s all amazing.

#13 – Tsukiji Fish Market – A Must-See For Foodies!

• If you like seafood, you’ll be spoiled for choice in this market.
• World’s largest fish market
• A perfect place for people watching.

Why it’s so awesome : The fish markets in Japan are famous and this is one of the oldest. It shut down in 2018 and then reopened as 2 separate parts. At the original location, you’ll find food stalls that sell a range of seafood dishes and snacks and down the road, you’ll find the other half of the market, known as Toyosu Market, which has some of the best sushi bars in the city.

What to do there : Eat seafood! You’ll find the freshest seafood you’ve ever eaten in this market and also some of the most inventive dishes. Try the seared tuna, sushi or squid ink sticky buns if you’re feeling adventurous. And other than that, make sure you wander around. The fish market draws locals from all walks of life, and it’s fascinating to watch an event that’s so integral to everyday life in Japan.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

#14 – Shibuya Crossing

• One of the most iconic and photographed sites in Tokyo.
• If you’re looking for that defining photograph of Tokyo, you’ll be able to take it here.

Why it’s so awesome : Tokyo is one of the most crowded cities in the world ( yet still so safe! ) and that makes the Shibuya Crossing one of the busiest crosswalks in the world too. It’s actually really fascinating to watch. The lights change and suddenly people are walking from every direction, a crowd of crisscrossing shoppers, students, and men in business suits. Go at dusk to get the best light for pictures.

What to do there : The Shibuya Crossing is located in the centre of a busy city street and it’s surrounded by flashing neon lights and shops of every description. It’s the perfect place to people watch, so pull up a café chair, or just sit on one of the benches around the area and watch the controlled madness. Step out of Shibuya station for instant organised chaos!

There are also a lot of good restaurants and eateries in the area, so when you’re done make sure you stop for a snack.

#15 – Nezu Museum

• A temple of traditional Japanese Art.
• The artworks inside the building are stunning, but the building itself and it’s garden are just as amazing.

Why it’s so awesome : Spread over 40,000 feet, the museum contains more than 7,400 pieces of traditional and contemporary Japanese art. But it isn’t just the artwork inside that’s incredible. The building itself was redesigned by acclaimed architect Kengo Kuma and it manages to convey age, grace, elegance and welcome all at once, which makes it really worth the experience.

What to do there : This museum is a study in contrasts. It covers more than 40,000 feet and yet by some wonder of architecture, it still feels welcoming and intimate. You won’t find the cold, almost anesthetic feel of some museums in this building. Instead, it welcomes you to stay and enjoy the traditional art, so follow your impulses and take your time. And make sure you check out the outer areas too. The museum has a private garden that’s just spectacular.

#16 – Ryoguku Kokugikan

• You’ve got to experience sumo wrestling in Japan!
• There are 3 sumo tournaments a year at this site, drawing more than 11,000 fans.

Why it’s awesome : Sumo is a big draw in Tokyo, and you might be surprised by how popular it is among the locals. There are 6 official sumo tournaments in Japan every year, three of which are held at this location, and the tournaments themselves last for weeks. Obviously, this means that there can’t be tournaments all year round, which is why this venue holds other sporting competitions like kickboxing too. But if you’re in Tokyo when there’s a sumo tournament on, it’s really worth seeing.

What to do there : Sumo is an iconic and much-loved sport in Japan. So, if you get the chance, buy a ticket and attend one of the matches. Not only is it a uniquely interesting sport to watch, if slightly unusual to western minds, but it’s also exciting to be among the crowd as the locals cheer on their favorites and get swept up in the challenge and competition.

#17 – Yoyogi Park – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Tokyo

• A park for the active traveller, where you can take part in any sport under the sun.
• Walking distance from Harajuku Station
• The perfect place to hang out in nature and get away from the city.

Why it’s so awesome : Japan has some amazing parks and Yoyogi Park is one of the best. It’s 134 acres just a short distance from Shibuya and is always full of picnickers and performers. There is always something going on in this park. It’s probably the only place in the city where you can see people playing badminton, the banjo, and amateur dancers all in one area.

What to do there : This is a park where you can relax, sit back, and enjoy yourself. Take a picnic or grab some snacks from a nearby stall and watch the performances. In the northern areas, long walkways stretch across lush lawns, so get some exercise and breath in the sweet-smelling air. Or just wander and explore whatever takes your fancy, it’s all up to you. It’s easy to reach being within walking distance of Harajuku Station.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

#18 – Ueno Park

• A huge and stunning natural area with lots to do.
• Close to Ueno station.
• You’ll find everything from museums to grave sites and statues in this area.

Why it’s so awesome: Tokyo has a lot of amazing parks and Ueno Park is one of the most popular among the locals. No matter what time of day you go there you’ll find school kids in large groups chattering their way along the path, older locals playing games, and workers eating their lunch. This is where a lot of the locals in Tokyo go to take a breath of fresh air and enjoy the quiet. And if you need this during your holiday, then Ueno Park is the perfect place to get it.

What to do there: Ueno Park is the perfect place to relax, take in the scenery, and pretend you’re not in a big city at all. You can wander from museum to museum, explore the shady, dappled walkways, take photos next to the grave sites of samurai’s from another time, or just sit on a bench and relax near a water feature. Basically, if you need restoration and quiet, this is the place to get it.

#19 – Origami Kaikam

• A chance to see one of the most familiar Japanese art forms in the world.
• You really won’t believe  what people can make  with a simple piece of paper!

Why it’s so awesome : This is a shop and an art gallery in one. There are several floors in this building, with a shop on the ground floor, an art gallery on the second, and a workshop at the top that all explore the art of origami. You’ll not only see the familiar crane shape, but you’ll also see some creations that might seem impossible! The art rotates seasonally, so if you visit more than once, you’ll experience something new every time.

What to do there : When you visit this site, you don’t just have to look at the paper creations, you can also learn to make them as well. There are classes on-site as well as specially dyed paper, so get involved and make your experience that much richer.

#20 – Tokyo Station

• Tokyo station is a historic building.
• Great shopping area, particularly if you’re looking for souvenirs.
• Some of the best fast food options in the city are in this building, and they’re  far healthier  than western fast food options too!

Why it’s so awesome : It might sound strange to say that a trip through a train station can be an awesome experience but this is Japan, where nothing is as you might expect. Tokyo Station is a historic icon that’s a symbol of Japan’s rush to modernize. It’s over a hundred years old and is home to a huge variety of shops and restaurants. That’s what makes it the perfect place to spend some time before and after your trips out of the city.

What to do there: You can take a tour through the station if you like but you can also explore it on your own. There are a huge variety of shops within the building as well as some food stalls that serve famous Japanese snacks. Visit the Tokyo Ramen Street inside the station to try a wide variety of ramen types all in one handy location.

#21 – Kabuki-za Theatre – A Great Place to Visit in Tokyo at Night

• This theatre has been destroyed and rebuilt a number of times, but it’s still a historic landmark and home to great kabuki shows !
• There’s also a gallery on the fifth floor with costumes and other related exhibits.

Why it’s so awesome: This theatre was first built in the late 1800s, but war and fire, and other disasters have destroyed it repeatedly throughout time. The most recent incarnation was built in 2013, which proves just how important this art form is to Japanese culture. Kabuki is a form of Japanese theatre that uses song and dance as well as highly dramatized language and actions to convey stories. The plays can be historical dramas, more contemporary stories, or dance pieces.

What to do there : This theatre has shows running constantly so make sure you get a ticket while you’re in the city. You don’t even have to sit through a whole play if you aren’t sure if you’ll like it because there are single-act tickets that you can buy at the door. Make sure you have a look at the souvenir shop afterward for some awesome gifts or trinkets that are sure to raise eyebrows back home.

#22 – Ueno Sakuragi Atari

• A historic and fascinating look at old Japan.
• If you’re interested in history, you’ll get some great shots in this area, which looks like it belongs to a previous age.

Why it’s so awesome : This area contains 3 traditional houses that were renovated into one complex. They now contain stores, houses, and workshops, all of them eclectic and cunningly fit into such as small area. You can have a craft beer in a bar that looks like it came straight off the set of a Japanese film and eat bread in an eclectic bakery. Basically, this area is like a small town all in 3 buildings, and you’ll get some amazing travel photos while you’re there.

What to do there : Just explore. The design of this building is eclectic and it has a lot of nooks and crannies where there are shops and stalls that you wouldn’t expect. And they have great seasonal events too, including beer festivals and tea ceremonies, so check their website before you go to see what’s on.

#23 – Rainbow Bridge

• The city’s most famous bridge.
• It looks amazing in the day, but it’s even better at night when it lights up.
• Make sure you get lots of photographs!

Why it’s so awesome : The Rainbow Bridge crosses Tokyo Bay and looks like its name. It manages to carry cars, people, and the Metro across the river and look spectacular at the same time, which you can really say about too many bridges. It’s particularly awesome at night, when it lights up with the spectrum of the rainbow, making it look exactly like its name promises.

What to do there : The bridge carries cars, the Metro and people across the water, so if you want to get the full experience then walk over the bridge to Odaiba. The views of the bay and the different parts of the city are amazing in the daytime. But make sure that you find a good spot to see it at night as well because the lights are truly spectacular.

#24 – Ninja Akasaka

• Perfect for a fun night out with friends.
• Great food, served in surroundings that are reminiscent of an ancient Japanese castle.

Why it’s so awesome : Everyone likes ninjas but nobody really thinks of them in connection with food and yet that’s exactly what you’ll get in this restaurant. This is a fun, quirky place to have dinner while ninjas jump around and bring you dishes in a building that’s designed to look like the interior of a Japanese castle. It’s a great place for a fun night out, as only Japan can do it.

What to do there : This restaurant serves Japanese food with western tweaks, but the real draw is the ninjas who serve the food, bring the menu, and jump out unexpectedly at you. Make sure you check on the showtimes for the magician as well, as this will add another layer of fun to an already interesting night.

#25 – teamLab Planets – One of the most amazing places in Tokyo!

• Tokyo’s hottest art show.
• Technology and art combine here for an experience you’ll never forget.

Why it’s so awesome : This show opened in 2018 in Odaiba and is a digital art museum created by a technology group called teamLab. There are more than 60 artworks on display and they’re all interactive so you can touch and disrupt. Actually, you’re encouraged to do so, because your participation is part of the art!

What to do there : There are five sections in this art display so make sure you spend time with each one. And don’t just look either, touch and explore and see what happens! You’ll be surprised by the reaction. Also, make sure you check out the Sketch Aquarium, where you can draw your own image and watch as it starts moving across the walls!

#26 – Nonbei Yokocho

• Japan’s bar alley where you can get a drink in atmospheric surroundings.
• The perfect place for a night out.

Why it’s so awesome : This is a tiny and untidy alley filled with tiny bars, many of which only fit four or five people at once. The area dates back to the 1950s and since then the alley has been filled with eateries and yakitori shops, all of them close to the Shibuya station .

What to do there : Spend time exploring the alleys and try the eateries. The eatery known as Okasan is particularly popular. It’s a no-frills place that serves traditional meals and has been popular in Japan for generations. Also, if you can fit into any of the bars, make sure you grab a drink too and really get the most from the experience. This is a great area to indulge in some proper Japanese food.

Get insured for your trip to Tokyo!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Tokyo

What should you not miss in Tokyo?

Shinjuku is the bustling heart and soul of Tokyo and it’s exactly what you came to see! Where the old and the new collide in a complete sensory overload!

What is the coolest place in Tokyo?

It’s got to be Akihabara , the tech center of Tokyo and the Japan of your dreams!! Endless fun awaits in Electric Town!

What are the best places to visit in Tokyo at night?

Head up to the iconic Tokyo Tower and take in the bright lights of the city at night from above!

What are the best places to visit in Tokyo during winter?

Head inside the Ryoguku Kokugikan for some sumo action, it’s sure to heat up during these intense battles!

Japan can be an expensive place, but don’t let that stop you from spending some time in this city, because it’s absolutely worth the money. It’s one of the most interesting cities in the world and offers all the best parts of Japanese culture as well as the most incredible food you’ll ever eat.

Visit the amazing places in Tokyo we’ve discussed have the trip of your dreams. But don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path, too. This city is like another world–get to know it while you’re here!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Share or save this post

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.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Asia Chevron

Japan Chevron

Tokyo Chevron

27 Best Things to Do in Tokyo

By Melinda Joe and Anna Chittenden

Deciding the best things to do in Tokyo depends on how much time you have—and for your sake, we hope you have a month. The city’s streets can feel like a game of soccer played at hyper speed, while calmer attractions range from temples, museums , gardens, origami classes, and bohemian sojourns. This city has more than enough going on to put you in a tizzy, so a words of advice: Arrive with a game plan and prepare to get lost along the way, in a good way. Here, the very best things to do in Tokyo.

Read our complete Tokyo travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Senso-ji Arrow

Tokyo may not have as many temples as Kyoto, but Senso-ji isn’t the capital city’s most popular just by default. The atmosphere alone here is one for the bucket list. Senso-ji, the temple itself, is at the end of the shopping street, while a recently renovated five-story pagoda stands to the left (ranking in as the second tallest pagoda in Japan). Japanese visitors flutter around a large cauldron in front of the temple where incense burned inside is said to benefit good health. Travelers keen to avoid crowds should arrive early, but even tourists that are remotely interested in Japanese culture will find something to appreciate here.

Harmonica Yokocho Arrow

This clutch of narrow alleys, a short walk from the north exit of JR Kichijoji station, is stuffed to the gills with hole-in-the wall eateries. A yellow sign marks the entrance to Harmonica Yokocho, which takes its name from the layout of the vendors, slotted cheek-to-jowl along the passageways like the reeds in a harmonica. The atmospheric network of lanes started out as a post-war flea market in the 1940s, but the area underwent a transformation in the 90s when bustling bars and restaurants made their entrance onto the scene. It has a laid-back and hyper-local feel, especially during the daytime, when you’ll find fishmongers and traditional sweets makers plying their trades.

Tokyo Skytree Arrow

Topping off at 2,080 feet, the Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower (that's tower, not building) in the world. From the broadcast tower’s 360-degree observation decks, the whole city—its striking skyscrapers and neon intersections—looks like a magical circuit board. It’s a major tourist attraction and a ticket isn’t cheap (up to ¥3,400, or $25, for combo tickets), but even if you don’t pay to go inside, there’s no denying that the Tokyo Skytree brought the skyline to a whole new level. Depending on where you’re staying, it can be an out-of-the-way trip to eastern Tokyo (luckily, a train station gets you right near the entrance). Families with children will enjoy the experience—especially the speedy elevator rides—as will anyone that loves a jaw-dropping view.

Koganeyu Arrow

Sleek design, a DJ booth, and craft beer on tap: The newly refurbished Koganeyu functions as a lively standing bar and community events space, but the main reason to visit this 89-year-old establishment is to immerse yourself in Tokyo’s sento (public sauna) culture. A crowdfunded renovation has transformed the space into a contemporary sento with four pools, a sauna, and an outdoor bath. Bathing areas for men and women are separated by a 2.2-meter partial wall, while a mural depicting Mount Fuji stretches across both areas like a scroll. You can purchase tickets from the vending machine at the entrance; a 90-minute bathing session costs about $3.50 for adults, $2.70 for students, and $1.30 for children. After emerging from the baths, relax with a glass of craft beer brewed especially for Koganeyu, or try a homemade ginger highball.

Jessica Puckett

Olivia Morelli

Rachel Chang

Sakurai Tea Experience Arrow

Copper and wood greet you inside this minimalist sanctuary dedicated to sado, the Japanese “way of tea.” A small retail space filled with glass jars containing 30 varieties of green tea conceals an intimate eight-seat cafe. Founder Shinya Sakurai studied for 14 years to become a master, and his modern take on tea ceremony is meditative and illuminating. As Sakurai prepares the infusions behind an L-shaped wooden counter, a continuous stream of water flows from a copper tap—a symbol of purification. Gyokuro, a luxurious variety of green tea grown in the shade, is the specialty here. Sakurai travels the country to select the leaves, which he roasts daily in-house. The tasting flight for ¥4,800 (about $35) is the best introduction to the range of teas on offer.

Shibuya Crossing Arrow

Anyone remotely impressed that Tokyo is the most populated city in the world should visit the world’s busiest intersection at Shibuya Crossing. Massive video screens flashing advertisements tower above every corner as black-suited salarymen, wide-eyed tourists, and bag-toting shoppers wait and cross in concert. The feeling is oddly soothing, a reminder that whatever our disparate paths in life, they all have a tendency to cross at one time or another. The best time to go is at dusk, one of the scramble’s peak times and in its most flattering light. The Shibuya Scramble Square tower above Shibuya station offers a birds’ eye view of the famous crossing, along with panoramic vistas of the city from the Shibuya Sky rooftop observatory, perched 230 meters above street level.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Arrow

Fancy a stroll in a Japanese garden? Get that and more at Shinjuku Gyoen. In addition to native, traditional gardens, the 144-acre park pockets French Formal and English Landscape gardens, all of which are worth the modest entrance fee. Landmarks are stunning and impossible to forget, like a Taiwan Pavilion perched along a serene pond. Formerly an imperial garden, it became a national garden after World War II—so you can trust that this precious plot is always beautifully maintained. Don’t miss cherry blossom season.

Kappabashi Street Arrow

Kappabashi Street, a district in between Ueno and Asakusa, isn’t so much a food destination as it is a food adjacent destination: While it’s devoted to the restaurant industry, fresh food isn’t why folks come. Instead, the street is a chef’s dream of restaurant supply stores that are known best for sampuru , replicas of food dishes that are part of a century-old craft—and are up for grabs. And, because it’s more trade-focused than tourist-focused, the prices can be somewhat economical. Have any curious cooks in the family? This district is their souvenir heaven.

Azuki to Kouri Arrow

The clean-lined, slate-grey interior of this kakigori ice specialist sets off the ebullient shaved ice creations of pâtissier Miho Horio. Formerly of two-Michelin-starred restaurant Florilege, Horio is one of the young chefs elevating the sweet treat to new heights of refinement. She carefully adjusts the blade of her ice machine to shave blocks of ice—made with spring water from Nikko, north of Tokyo—into fluffy, feathery flakes. Shaping the shavings into a delicate mound, she adds fresh fruit and toppings such as homemade syrups, compotes, and foams. Her signature parfait showcases sweet azuki red beans—the classic kakigori topping for which the café is named—paired with cream and flecks of meringue. Seasonal offerings include salted cherry blossoms with fresh strawberries in spring, and blood orange dusted with grated Amazonian cacao in early summer.

Yoyogi Park Arrow

Yoyogi Park is one of the most amusing parks in Tokyo. Its 134 acres sprawl right in Shibuya, a short skip from Harajuku , and bustle with picnics and performers. The northern side is lush, with clean walkways along expansive, grassy lawns where locals and tourists spread under the shade of Japanese Zelkova trees, and gather around a large pond. Spot impromptu badminton team swinging racquets, a drum circle tapping away at the bongo, or amateur dancers following along to the beat.

Yayoi Kusama Museum Arrow

In a suburban part of Shinjuku, a smooth white building rises five stories high—a museum completely devoted to the works of Yayoi Kusama . The building looks slim, but it houses a bulk of the larger-than-life and avant-garde artist’s pieces, including an installation of her “infinity room” series (an Instagram sensation which, in the past, drew hundreds of thousands of visitors in stateside exhibitions) to polka-dotted paintings and sculptures. The museum changes its exhibition two times a year, and as it’s still relatively new, it’s only cracked the surface of the prolific artist’s work.

Kuge Crafts Arrow

The traditional technique of mending pottery with lacquer sprinkled with gold dust, kintsugi is an art form unto itself. The practice, which dates back to the 15th century, is alive and well at Kuge Crafts, a ceramics studio in the quiet Shin-Koenji neighborhood of western Tokyo. Run by a family of artisans—Yoshiichiro and Yoshiko Kuge, together with their son, Shu—the atelier transforms broken cups and dishes into singular works of art and offers two-hour kintsugi lessons (¥8,000, or about $59) for learners of all levels. The workshop will provide all the materials; you can bring your own damaged vessel for repair or ask them to prepare a piece for you to work on.

Sumo at Ryogoku Kokugikan Arrow

Only three of six official grand sumo tournaments happen in Tokyo, all at Ryogoku Kokugikan. The stadium houses over 11,000 eager fans under its green, pavilion-style roof. Official tournaments last just over two weeks each, which means Ryogoku Kokugikan sometimes hosts other events (boxing, for example). But sumo is the arena’s feature attraction, and if you’re hoping to see sumo in Tokyo, this is where to find it. Tamari seats, which are those immediately surrounding the ring, are the most coveted—and virtually impossible to score. But the next series of rows, box seats, are as close as you can get. Box seats are top-dollar, but little more than rows of tatami mats lined with red square cushions (with no backs) sold in groups of four—so cozy up, and pay up (¥380,00, or about $279, for a box). There are proper stadium seats along the second-floor mezzanine, but the thrill of witnessing this traditional Japanese sport up close is all about getting comfortable with the floor.

The Bellwood Arrow

Modeled after an early 20th-century Japanese coffee house, this swanky watering hole is fitted with modern-retro touches like a stained glass panel bearing the bar’s name, bookended by images of Mount Fuji and a martini under the moon. The main space is great for after-work drinks or late-night tipples, but the bar recently opened a glass-encased private room to host a series of food-and-cocktail pairing experiments. Witty twists on classic cocktails are prepared with flair. Start light with the Kome Tonic, made with rice-based shochu, then explore the seasonal menu: Tango Mule made with gin and Fernet Branca laced with roasted mate, or the Okushibu Fashioned with bourbon, kinako soy powder and a hint of bitter mugmort.

Nihon Minka-en Japan Open-air Folk House Museum Arrow

Though only 20 minutes by train from central Tokyo, the Nihon Minka-En Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum, located in a suburb of neighboring Kawasaki City, feels a world—and several centuries—away. The sprawling grounds are home to 25 marvelously preserved Edo-era homes relocated from all over the Japanese countryside, spanning an array of styles from farmhouses to samurai houses and includes a shrine, water mill and kabuki stage. Don’t miss the traditional indigo dyeing workshop in the middle of the park houses a small shop where you can find indigo-dyed everything, from socks and sweaters to handkerchiefs and masks.

Koffee Mameya Kakeru Arrow

Don't expect your average cup of joe at Koffee Mameya Kakeru, housed in a renovated warehouse in the Shirakawa coffee district in eastern Tokyo. Beyond the sleek glass facade, the interior designed by art director Tomohiro Kato and architect Yosuke Hayashi features a massive oak structure built around the artfully arranged coffee shelves. A rectangular wooden frame encases a three-sided stone counter built around three black tables where the baristas display their skills. Coffee maestro and founder Eiichi Kumimoto launched Koffee Mameya Kakeru to go deep into the world of the brew and push the boundaries of the drink's potential. The menu showcases seasonal varieties, but the omakase-style coffee tasting courses (including a range of cold and milk brews, mocktails, and lattes) take center stage, offering a fascinating journey through the diverse flavors and artistry of coffee. Coffee cocktail champion Akira Zushi dazzles with flair bartending skills and innovative cocktails like the milk brew blended with hop-accented jasmine tea and lemon, finished with a spritz of prickly ash water.

Oedo Antique Market Arrow

Oedo Antique Market is a marvelous outdoor fair held near Tokyo Station twice a month, with stalls selling wonderful antique and vintage wares. Hundreds of independent stallholders set up shop to sell their one-of-a-kind objects. There isn’t a huge number of antique or vintage homeware shops in Tokyo—so if you’re looking for old, interesting, and unique Japanese items for your home, this is the place to come. The items on sale at Oedo are completely one-off and unique. You’d be hard pressed to find a permanent shop in Tokyo that has the choice and style that you’ll find here. For first dibs, come earlier in the day.

Kyu Asakura House Arrow

Built in 1919, the former residence of government official Torajiro Asakura is a marvelously preserved example of traditional Japanese architecture tucked into Tokyo’s bustling Daikanyama district. For ¥100 (about 73 cents), you can wander through the building’s stately wooden corridors, tatami-floored rooms, and beautifully manicured grounds. The suginoma (cedar rooms) on the west side of the structure offer postcard-perfect views of the Japanese garden—particularly in the autumn, when the maple trees blaze with color. One of the city’s best-kept secrets, the property is an oasis of calm. It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds for an hour or two and contemplate the passing of time.

Nakameguro Arrow

It’s okay to visit the artsy neighborhood, Nakameguro, just to see its seasonal appeal as one of the most picture-perfect spots for cherry blossoms in spring. However, stick around these charming streets and you’ll find a hip collection of independent cafes and boutiques that offer a laid-back alternative to the city’s buzzing hubs. Sakura trees hug the Meguro River in Nakameguro’s center, blossoming as they lean over the sloped, canal-like walls surrounding the water. Once you’ve taken a moment to smell the blossoms (and fill your phone with pictures), you’ll find an array of independent boutiques and cafes branching off along narrow streets in either direction. Head to the corner-side Onibus Coffee, which serves single-origin espresso, and stop at SML, a boutique stocking delightful crafts (especially ceramics) made by Japanese artists. 

Nakano Broadway Arrow

A Tokyo mecca for anime- and manga-loving otaku subculture fans, the Nakano Broadway is a multi-story shopping arcade that has become a hub for niche collectors of all stripes. When it first opened in 1966, the complex epitomized the spirit of future-perfect economic optimism sparked by the Tokyo Olympics. Competition from newer shopping malls emptied its corridors of fancy boutiques in the 80s, before the Broadway reinvented itself as a center for used manga and anime models in the 90s. More than 300 tiny outlets are crammed into the aging edifice’s bottom five floors, offering everything from vintage Godzilla and Astroboy figurines to designer watches and creepy dolls galore.

Isetan Arrow

Isetan is Tokyo’s best—and most famous—department store; its history dates back to 1886, when it started as a kimono shop. The sprawling flagship in Shinjuku is spread out over nine floors, each offering something special. There’s a big fashion focus, with local Japanese brands sitting beside international names. Don’t miss a visit to the wonderful food hall on B1, which sells a variety of Japanese snacks and goodies, including beautifully prepared bento boxes for lunch.

Tsukiji Market Arrow

In October 2018, the world’s largest fish market, Tsukiji, shut down after 83 years and re-opened in two distinct parts. At the original location, it’s pretty much business as usual, with street-food stalls serving up everything from seared tuna to uni sandwiches in squid-ink sticky buns. Just down the road at Toyosu Market , meanwhile, you can taste fresh raw fish in a series of sushi bars and peek in on the auctions (formerly held at Tsukiji) and live fish sales from a second-story viewing station. You can also tour a large green space on the rooftop, which affords views of the Tokyo skyline.

Heiwa Doburoku Brewery Kabutocho Arrow

This simple but stylish Wakayama-based sake brewpub in Tokyo makes clever use of a corner space in Kabutocho, the recently hip neighborhood near the Tokyo Stock Exchange building. As the name suggests, the bar specializes in doburoku, a rustic style of unfiltered and lightly fermented sake characterized by its thick texture. Previously outlawed for taxation reasons, the traditional brew is making a comeback, appearing on menus at Tokyo's trendiest restaurants and bars. Large windows, pale wood fixtures, and a curved counter surrounding a small open kitchen give the bar an open and airy feel. The menu lists dry-hopped and aged doburoku, varieties made with ground adzuki red beans or black beans, and a few seasonal styles flavored with fruits or herbs. But the best place to start is with the original, plain doburoku, a thick and yogurty brew with a touch of fruity fizz. Brewer Heiwa Shuzo's excellent craft beers are served on tap (we love the golden ale infused with fragrant sansho prickly ash peppercorns), and the bar offers a nice selection of the brewery's clear, award-winning sake.

Nezu Museum Arrow

This serene museum in the Aoyama district, redesigned by celebrated architect Kengo Kuma, is a contemporary temple for traditional art. A long, covered outdoor path alongside bamboo-clad walls serves as a minimalist entrance, but once inside, double-height interiors and glass walls stretch over 40,000 square feet while keeping the experience intimate. And while the museum mixes contemporary design and traditional art on the inside—over 7,400 pieces—the outside counts, too: The property is home to a stunning private garden that’s worth the visit all on its own. The bulk of the museum’s art was once the private collection of Nezu Kaichirō, the president of Japan’s Tobu Railway. Since the midcentury, the collection grew and now comprises over 7,400 pieces.

Bohemian Tokyo in Shimokitazawa Arrow

Only one express stop away from the brighter-than-bright energy of Shibuya, Shimokita (what locals call Shimokitazawa) is like turning down the volume and switching to an acoustic track. It might embrace its bohemian style—with vintage stores on seemingly every block—but it doesn’t lose that unmistakable, sophisticated Japanese style in the process. Sift through secondhand shops, sip coffee, and repeat.

Monzen-Nakacho Arrow

The old-school neighborhood of Monzen-Nakacho—known as “Mon-Naka” among locals—has retained its colorful, salt-of-the-earth shitamachi (downtown) atmosphere since the Edo era (1603-1868). Two main draws are the stately Tomioka Hachiman Shrine and the Fukagawa Fududo temple, where you can hear the sounds of drumming and chanting from the temple’s fire ceremony, held five times a day. These days, hipster coffee shops and natural wine boîtes nestle against traditional shops selling pickles, Japanese confections, and old-timey delicacies like tsukudani—bits of seafood long-simmered in soy sauce and sugar. It’s a terrific place to spend a lazy afternoon wandering the cobbled streets and alleyways en route to the Museum of Contemporary Art in neighboring Kiba. But at night, the neighborhood comes alive with an array of reasonably priced eating and drinking spots.

teamLab Borderless Arrow

With the first iteration of Borderless in Odaiba, the art collective Teamlab created an endlessly Instagrammable, sumptuous and surreal museum dedicated to multi-sensory digital art. Opened in 2018, the facility, which set the world record for the most visited museum dedicated to a single artist, closed its doors in 2022. However, Borderless 2.0 is set to relocate to a permanent location in the soon-to-open Azabudai Hills mixed-use complex in central Tokyo in early 2024. Boderless consists of installations that feature constantly morphing patterns and designs that seem to flow seamlessly from room to room in a maze-like space. Updated versions of some of the museum’s previous works will be on display, as well as several new installations: a room filled with hundreds of multicolored lights that run along tracks continuously and a series of interactive “light sculptures,” to name a few.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

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

12 Best Things To Do at Mount Fuji, Japan

Snow monkey park: japan’s hot spring oasis, 14 unmissable things to do in kyoto, 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.

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tokyo

Written by Meagan Drillinger and Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 19, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

When it comes to the greatest cities in the world, you cannot do better than Tokyo. A juxtaposition of deep tradition and fast-paced, modern energy, Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, is one of the best places to visit in Asia . It is home to the Imperial Palace and the seat of Government and Parliament, as well as luxury hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and fantastic shopping. Located in East-Central Honshu, the largest of Japan's main islands, this heavily populated city serves as a great base from which to explore other parts of the country.

One of the world's most modern cities in terms of its infrastructure and design — due largely to the 1923 earthquake and the devastation of WWII — Tokyo also holds the title of the world's most expensive city in which to live. Fortunately, it's also one of the easiest to get around thanks to its superb rail and subway networks.

The cultural side of Tokyo is famous for its numerous things to do and top attractions, including museums; festivals; internationally noted cuisine; and professional sports clubs, including baseball, football, and traditional Japanese pursuits like sumo wrestling. It's also a city rich in music and theater, with numerous venues featuring everything from Japanese modern dramas to symphony orchestras and pop and rock concerts.

Explore the city with our list of the top things to do in Tokyo.

1. Enjoy Nature and Art at the Meiji Shrine

2. explore the shinjuku gyoen national garden, 3. enjoy nature at ueno park and ueno zoo, 4. visit the sensō-ji temple, 5. shop 'til you drop in the ginza district, 6. see the view from the tokyo skytree, 7. wander through the tokyo national museum, 8. tour the imperial palace, 9. visit the miraikan and edo-tokyo museums, 10. stop in at the national museum of nature and science, 11. spend time at the national museum of western art, 12. enjoy the collections at the national art center, 13. see a show at the kabuki-za theatre, ginza, 14. get lost at yomiuriland, 15. scope the fashion in harajuku, 16. take a walk at shibuya crossing, where to stay in tokyo for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to tokyo, map of tourist attractions & things to do in tokyo, best time to visit tokyo, japan.

Highlights : An important religious site surrounded by 175 acres of forest

Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken, the construction of the splendid Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingū) began in 1915 and was completed in 1926. Although the original structure was destroyed during WWII, it was rebuilt in 1958 and remains one of Tokyo's most important religious sites.

Surrounded by a 175-acre evergreen forest that is home to some 120,000 trees representing species found across Japan — as well as the interesting "wishing tree," on which visitors can write and hang their deepest wishes — the shrine's highlights include its Inner Precinct (Naien) with its museum containing royal treasures, and the Outer Precinct (Gaien).

It's in the Outer Precinct that you'll find the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery with its superb collection of murals relating to the lives of the emperor and empress. Be sure to also visit the adjacent Meiji Shrine Inner Garden (Yoyogi Gyoen), an attractive public garden complete with a teahouse, iris garden, and a pleasant arbor.

Address: 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo

Highlights : Three types of traditional gardens in one, including 1,500 cherry trees

Walk through one of Tokyo's most historic pieces of land when you visit the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Formerly the residence of the Naito family during the Edo period (17th-19th centuries), it was transferred to the Imperial Family. It is now a national garden, which opened in 1949, and is considered to be one of the most beautiful in Japan.

The garden is considered one of the best because it fuses together three types of traditional garden: French Formal, English Landscape, and Japanese traditional. It also happens to be one of the best spots in Tokyo to view the cherry blossoms , as the garden has roughly 1,500 cherry trees. You'll also find Himalayan cedars, cypresses, and tulip trees. The garden is very popular in the autumn, when the leaves start to change to crimson and gold.

Other features of the garden include a greenhouse, beautiful ponds, and several pavilions.

Address: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo

Highlights : A 212-acre park home to ponds, historic shrines, and the Ueno Zoo

A paradise-like oasis of green in the heart of busy Tokyo, Ueno Park (Ueno Kōen) is the city's largest green space and one of its most popular tourist attractions. In addition to its lovely grounds, the park also boasts numerous temples and museums to explore.

Criss-crossed by pleasant gravel paths, this 212-acre park includes highlights such as a trip on a small boat on the reed-fringed Shinobazu pond , around a little island with its Bentendo Temple. Be sure to also visit the 17th-century Toshogu Shrine (Nikkō Tōshō-gū), with its 256 bronze and stone lanterns.

Another highlight here is Ueno Zoo (Onshi Ueno Dōbutsuen). Opened in 1882, it is Japan's oldest zoo, and is famous for the pandas presented by the People's Republic of China.

While it's a large attraction and houses more than 3,00 animals representing some 400 species, having a fun monorail connecting its various components can help speed up a visit (and make it even more enjoyable).

The Aqua-Zoo , one of the largest aquariums in Asia, is also worth a visit, especially if you're traveling with kids.

Address: 9-83 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo

Highlights : A centuries-old temple with a 3.3-meter-high red paper lantern and incense that is said to heal ailments

In the Asakusa district of Tokyo, the exquisite Sensō-ji Temple (Kinryū-zan Sensō-ji)) – the city's most famous shrine – stands at the end of a long street market hosting vendors selling masks, carvings, combs made of ebony and wood, toys, kimonos, fabrics, and precious paper goods.

Dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of compassion, the temple was established in AD 645 and retains its original appearance despite having been rebuilt numerous times.

Highlights of a visit include seeing the Kaminari-mon Gate with its 3.3-meter-high red paper lantern bearing the inscription "Thunder Gate," as well as the famous and much-loved Incense Vat, reputed to drive away ailments (you'll see people cupping their hands around the smoke and applying it to the part of their body needing healing).

Also of note are the fascinating temple doves, said to be Kannon's sacred messengers. Be sure to drop a coin in the Omikuji boxes near the entrance, from which you can retrieve a piece of paper that will tell your fortune.

Afterward, be sure to explore the rest of the 50-acre temple precinct with its warren of lanes. If you can, revisit the temple again at night for a completely different (and far less crowded) illuminated experience.

Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo 111-0032

Highlights : A paradise for shoppers with hundreds of shops and restaurants in one of the world's largest pedestrian zones

Ginza is Tokyo's busiest shopping area and it's as iconic as Times Square in New York, and much older. It has in fact been the commercial center of the country for centuries and is where five ancient roads connecting Japan's major cities all met. Lined by exclusive shops and imposing palatial stores, the Ginza district is also fun to simply wander around or. Better still, sit in one of its many tea and coffee shops or restaurants while watching the world rush past.

At weekends, when everything is open, it's a shopper's paradise as traffic is barred, making it one of the world's largest pedestrian zones. Come nightfall, gigantic advertising panels on its many buildings bathe Ginza in bright neon light.

It's also where you'll find the famous Kabuki-za Theatre (see #12 below), home to traditional Kabuki performances, as well as the Shinbashi Enbujō Theatre in which Azuma-odori dances and Bunraku performances are staged.

Highlights : The tallest structure in the country, featuring a restaurant and multiple observation decks

It's hard to miss the Tokyo Skytree (Tōkyō Sukaitsurī). This 634-meter-tall communications and observation tower rises out of the city's Sumida district of Minato like a huge rocket ship.

The country's tallest structure (and the world's tallest freestanding tower), the Tokyo Skytree opened in 2012 and has quickly become one of the city's most visited tourist attractions thanks to the incredible panoramic views from its restaurant and observation decks.

With a base designed in the form of a massive tripod, the tower includes a number of cylindrical observation levels, including one at the 350-meter mark, and another at the 450-meter point - the latter includes a unique glass spiral walkway to an even higher viewpoint with glass floors for those with strong stomachs.

Be sure to also check out the smaller and much older Tokyo Tower , built in 1958 and once the city's tallest structure.

Address: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo

Highlights : One of the largest collections of historic Japanese clothing and pottery from across Asia

Tokyo National Museum (ōkyō Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan) houses more than 100,000 important works of Japanese, Chinese, and Indian art, including more than 100 national treasures.

Opened in 1938, the TNM, as it's usually known, includes highlights such as numerous Buddhist sculptures from Japan and China dating from the 6th century to the present, as well as fine collections of old textiles, historical weapons, and military equipment.

Also noteworthy are its large collections of historical Japanese clothing and Asian ceramics and pottery. Important artwork includes Japanese paintings from the 7th to the 14th centuries, and another must-see is the museum's exquisite collections of Japanese and Chinese masterpieces of lacquer work of various centuries, including examples of lacquer-carving, gold lacquer, and lacquer with mother of pearl. There are also many fine examples of calligraphy.

English-language guided tours are available. Also worth a visit is the museum's traditional Japanese landscape garden with its three pavilions, including the 17th-century Tein Teahouse (Rokuso-an), and the nearby Museum for East Asiatic Art with its 15 exhibition galleries.

Address: 13-9 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo

Highlights : A 17th-century palace known for its historic walls, bridge, gate, and garden

The chief attraction of Tokyo's Marunouchi district is the Imperial Palace (Kōkyo) with its beautiful 17th-century parks surrounded by walls and moats. Still in use by the Imperial family, the Imperial Palace stands on the site where, in 1457, the Feudal Lord Ota Dokan built the first fortress, the focal point from which the city of Tokyo (or Edo, as it was then) gradually spread.

As famous as the palace is the Nijubashi Bridge leading to its interior, a structure that takes its name ("double bridge") from its reflection in the water. Other notable features include the two-meter-thick wall surrounding the palace and its gates, one of which leads to the East Higashi-Gyoen Garden.

Tours of the Imperial Palace are available (pre-registration required) and include the Kikyo-mon Gate, Someikan (Visitors' House), Fujimi-yagura ("Mt. Fuji View" Keep), the East Gardens and Inner Gate, the Seimon-tetsubashi bridge, and the Imperial Household Agency Building (be sure to plan ahead).

Another fortress that can be visited is Edo Castle (Chiyoda Castle). Built in 1457, it's located in Tokyo's Chiyoda district.

Address: 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111

Highlights : Hands-on exhibits that teach visitors about everything from earthquakes to weather, energy, robotics, and much more

One of Tokyo's newest museums, the impressive National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Nippon Kagaku Mirai-kan) – usually simply referred to as the Miraikan – offers a fascinating insight into Japan's leading role in the field of technology.

Created by Japan's Science and Technology Agency, this ultra-modern, purpose-built facility includes many hands-on interactive exhibits dealing with everything from earthquakes to weather, as well as renewable energy and robotics. Highlights include a number of displays relating to modern transportation such as a superb model of a Maglev train, as well as a robotics exhibition.

Also worth visiting is the Edo-Tokyo Museum. Completed in 1993, the museum's exhibits deal with the region's rich past, present, and future. Of particular interest is a replica bridge leading into a mock-up of dwellings in the original old city of Edo.

Address: 2-3-6 Aomi, Koto City, Tokyo

Highlights : A newly renovated museum housing 250,000 items related to natural history and science

Located in Tokyo's Ueno Park , the superb National Museum of Nature and Science (Kokuritsu Kagaku Hakubutsukan) opened in 1871 and is one of the country's oldest museums.

Now completely renovated and modernized, the museum also boasts a reputation as one of the country's busiest and largest museums, housing a vast collection of some 250,000 materials related to natural history and science.

These include many fascinating interactive displays on space development, nuclear energy, and transportation, each allowing visitors a unique insight into the latest scientific and technological advances. Highlights of the Japan Gallery (Nihonkan) include numerous exhibits of prehistoric creatures and the history of the Japanese people, including traditional customs and outfits. In the Global Gallery (Chikyūkan) you'll see many excellent scientific and technology displays, including robotics and vintage vehicles.

Address: 7-20 Uenokoen, Taito, Tokyo 110-871

Highlights : A collection of international artists, including Rodin, Monet, Manet, Degas, and many more

Located in Ueno Park and just three minutes' walk from Ueno Station stands the National Museum of Western Art (Kokuritsu Seiyō Bijutsukan). It was built in 1959 to plans by famous Swiss architect Le Corbusier.

The exhibits, largely made up of works by important French artists, come mainly from the collections of Japanese businessman and art collector Kojiro Matsukata, bought during visits to Europe early in the 20th century.

In the courtyard are works by French sculptor Auguste Rodin, while highlights inside are canvases by Impressionists Paul Cézanne, Claude Monet, Edouard Manet, and Edgar Degas. The museum also boasts an excellent restaurant with great views over the courtyard.

Address: 7-7 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo

Highlights : A permanent collection of more than 600 paintings from the 20th century

Another of Tokyo's world-class museums, the excellent National Art Center (Kokuritsu Shin-Bijutsukan) is housed in a remarkable curved glass building in the city's Roppongi district. This superb facility only opened in 2007 and has since earned a well-deserved reputation for its fine permanent collection of more than 600 paintings, most from the 20th century. These include many important pieces of modern art and regular visiting exhibitions.

Also worth checking out is the Mori Art Museum (Mori Bijutsukan) on the top floors of the neighboring Roppongi Hills Mori Tower . This fine art museum is notable for its regular exhibits of contemporary artwork from around the globe.

Address: 7-22-2 Roppongi Minato City, Tokyo

Highlights : A stunning theater showcasing a centuries-old style of performance

Tokyo is home to a number of excellent theaters, none as well known as the historic Kabuki-za Theatre in the city's busy Ginza district , home to famous traditional Kabuki performances.

Based upon a medieval, highly skilled, and often burlesque theatrical form including song and dance, the theater's performances are as popular among tourists as they are with Japanese-speaking people.

The drama and comedy are relatively easy to follow thanks to rich visuals and theatricality. The theater's interior, usually full to capacity with some 2,000 guests, is always intimate and seems more akin to an enormous family get-together than a stage show due to the fact that spectators bring their own food or purchase treats from the various restaurants spread around the auditorium (go for one of the tasty bento box meals).

Performances can last for hours, and spectators stay as long as they wish (or as long as they can bear). And no one seems to take offense at people's comings and goings, nor their loud cheering or jeering.

Address: 4 Chome-12-15 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061

Highlights : An amusement park with hundreds of cherry trees, water attractions, and rides

Sometimes you just want a day to be a kid again, and that's exactly what Yomiuriland has given to the residents of Tokyo since 1964. This amusement park sits 30 minutes from Tokyo and is home to more than 40 attractions and seasonal activities – think roller coasters, rides, light shows, and even a bungee jump.

The park is open year-round and provides something exciting to do at each time of year. In the spring, the park's more than 1,000 cherry trees blush with a blanket of powder-soft pinks. The summer means the opening of the park's many pools and water attractions. Come winter, the landscape is transformed into a twinkling snowscape wonderland.

Most travelers come to Yomiuriland to ride the Bandit, a rollercoaster that snakes its way through the tops of the cherry trees. Of course, the summer pools and waterslides are also a major selling point for this thrill park. Visitors will also find shopping and restaurants and a stage for entertainment.

Address: 4015-1 Yanokuchi, Inagi, Tokyo 206-8566, Japan

Highlights : Outrageous fashion and futuristic boutiques sit alongside historic attractions and museums.

Nothing is too outrageous when it comes to Tokyo's frenetic Harajuku District. The neighborhood refers to the area near the Harajuku Station, sandwiched between Shinjuku and Shibuya. If you're looking to bend the rules when it comes to everything cultural and fashionable, this is the spot to go.

The main artery of Harajuku (and the best place to spot the crazy teen fashions) is Takeshita Dori, which is flanked on either end by wild and wacky shops. Pink hair, tattoos, and knee-high boots are just the tip of the iceberg here. Even if your style is on the tamer side, fret not – Harajuku has plenty of more mainstream boutiques, as well.

But Harajuku is also home to several historical attractions. Meiji Jingu is located here, as is the small Ota Memorial Museum of Art. Overall, it's the perfect neighborhood to encapsulate Japan's deep-rooted traditions with its surges of futuristic styles.

Highlight : More than 3,000 human beings cross the streets at once at this five-way intersection.

If you've never seen an image of Shibuya Crossing, you may want to take a look before you go. Think Times Square, and multiply it several times over. This intersection is one of the most famous in the world, and most definitely the busiest in Japan, flooded with hundreds of thousands of flashing lights from electronic billboards overhead.

At peak times, it is thought that somewhere around 3,000 people cross this five-way intersection at once. It is undoubtedly the mass-transit nucleus of Tokyo. But if the thought of crossing the street with 3,000 of your newest friends is overwhelming, you can always head to the rooftop of the Shibuya 109-2 department store, which has the best bird's-eye view over the organized chaos below.

And even if you aren't in Shibuya to cross the street, you will still find that this neighborhood is absolutely teeming with fabulous restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. It is certainly a neighborhood not to miss when you visit Tokyo.

The best area to stay in Tokyo is the city center within walking distance of top attractions, such as the Imperial Palace, and close to Tokyo Station with its public transit and high-speed rail connections. The following hotels are highly recommended:

Luxury Hotels:

• Perched atop an office tower on the edge of Tokyo's financial district, the high-rise Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo offers excellent views over the city. Rooms and suites are posh, with chic decor and comfy beds. There are 10 restaurants on-site. You'll also find a spa, an indoor swimming pool, and a fitness center.
• Also boasting great views, this time over Tokyo Bay, is the Conrad Tokyo . This luxury hotel is also popular for its proximity to the Ginza district, which is home to great shopping and dining. On-site amenities here include an excellent Cantonese restaurant, a Japanese restaurant with views across the bay, and a third restaurant serving upmarket European fare. You'll also find a swanky spa with an indoor pool and gym in the building.
• Some of the best views in the city are discovered at the refurbished Palace Hotel Tokyo . If you are on a romantic getaway, book one of the posh rooms with a balcony overlooking the gardens of the Imperial Palace. If you're traveling with the kids, many of the suites have kitchens along with separate living rooms. There are multiple restaurants on-site, as well as an indoor swimming pool and a workout room. Finally, treat yourself to a massage at the luxe spa.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Close to the Imperial Palace and overlooking the magnificent red brick Renaissance-style Tokyo Station, Hotel Ryumeikan Tokyo is also near the city's best dining and shopping. This good-value option offers contemporary rooms with Nespresso machines and mini-fridges. Some have tatami mats and futons. On-site amenities include a few dining options and a traditional tearoom.
• Another good mid-range option near public transport and shopping is Hotel Niwa Tokyo . The hotel is located north of the Imperial Palace and adjacent to the Tokyo Dome baseball stadium. It offers clean and comfortable rooms – some even feature whirlpool baths. There are two restaurants on-site, as well as a gym.
• A great family hotel is the Courtyard by Marriott Tokyo Ginza , just a five-minute walk from the Ginza shopping district. The rooms here feature Japanese-inspired art and comfy beds. The suites also have separate living spaces, which is a bonus for parents. When it comes time to eat, you have three on-site restaurant options, including a Japanese restaurant with hostesses in kimonos and its own tempura counter.

Budget Hotels:

• Just minutes from the iconic Tokyo Tower and Shiba Park, Richmond Hotel Tokyo Shiba offers reasonably priced accommodations. It is especially popular for its proximity to the Haneda Express Monorail, the direct link to Tokyo's international airport. There is free Wi-Fi and a Starbucks café on-site.
• Another economy choice located just across the road from the Kanda River and a quick stroll to the nearest metro station is Hotel Mystays Asakusabashi . The property features tidy but basic rooms with free Wi-Fi. If you want to cook for yourself to save cash, book one with a kitchenette. Amenities include a convenience store on-site, as well as bike rentals.
• If you are really traveling on a tight budget then check out Hotel Yanagibashi , which offers some inexpensive hostel-style shared rooms. There are also cheaper private rooms with shared baths and slightly more expensive private rooms with en-suite baths. There is a communal kitchen so you can cook for yourself, free Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities on-site.
• Sightseeing & History in Tokyo : Tokyo is a big city, and taking a tour is a time-efficient way to see the top sites and one of the best ways to learn about what you are seeing. For a little bit of everything, the 1-Day Tokyo Bus Tour is a great option. This is a 10-hour tour taking in some of the city's top sites, like the Skytree, a cruise on Tokyo Bay, a visit to the Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and more.
• Day Trip to Nikko National Park: Get outside the steel and concrete of Tokyo and into the lush greenery of Nikko National Park with this full-day excursion. The tour takes you into the rolling countryside, past sacred shrines, and into temples. The Nikko 1-Day Bus Tour features Toshogu Shrine, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also visit Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls.
• Visit Mt. Fuji : Get up close and personal with one of Japan's biggest attractions: Mount Fuji. On the Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Lake Ashi Cruise, and Bullet Train Day Trip, you'll be whisked out of the city into the countryside for a visit to Mt. Fuji and some of Japan's other top sites. This tour is approximately 12 hours and also includes Mt. Hakone.

Tokyo is a city that enjoys a temperate climate year-round. But the best time to visit Tokyo is March, April, September, October, and November , thanks to its perfect weather and beautiful blossoms and foliage.

September, October, and November are some of the best times to visit Tokyo because they have the best weather. The weather in Tokyo in the fall ranges from 27 degrees to 16 degrees Celsius. The fall is also when the leaves in Tokyo start to change, particularly in October and November. Keep in mind that this is peak time for travelers, so hotel rates may be higher, and expect crowds.

Tokyo is also fabulous during March, April, and May. Temperatures range from 13 to 22 degrees Celsius. April is when Tokyo is awash in pale pink cherry blossoms, as well.

Summers in Tokyo are also top times for tourists, particularly June, July, and August. Expect throngs of crowds during the summer months, as well as heat and humidity. Still, this is one of the top times for tourists to visit Tokyo because schools are out on summer break.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

While in Tokyo : Be sure to spend time exploring the many great attractions within an easy day trip of Tokyo . Highlights include family favorites Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo Disney Sea, as well as a great trip to majestic Mount Fuji .

Take the Train : Thanks to Japan's superb rail system, it's possible to use Tokyo as a base to explore numerous other great cities in a day or less. Options include taking a Bullet train to experience the attractions of historic Kyoto (passing Mount Fuji along the way), or heading to Nagoya and exploring the city's many fine shrines and temples, along with its famous castle.

Japan Vacation Ideas : Another city that would serve equally well as a jumping-off point from which to explore Japan is Hiroshima . Here, you can enjoy the amazing Island Shrine of Itsukushima (you can spend the best part of a day here), as well as the many reminders of the city's part in WWII, including Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Peace Memorial Museum. The city of Sapporo on the northernmost island of Hokkaido is also a good place to enjoy the country's rich culture, history, and traditions.

More on Japan

14 of the best things to do in Tokyo

Mar 25, 2024 • 10 min read

Get to know Tokyo with these unmissable experiences © Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

Toyko is the megacity that other world capitals look up to.

Nowhere else has quite the same mix of timeless history and space-age tech, of strict tradition and up-to-the-second fashions, of bewildering crowds and moments of utter serenity.

It's the past and future wrapped up together into one thrilling package – and understandably, it's one of the top tourist destinations on the planet.

Deciding what to do in a city as vast and complex as Tokyo  can take some consideration.

You can spend your days shopping for next-century electronics in futuristic malls or finding inner peace in timeless temples and serene zen gardens, and your evenings sipping sake in back-alley bars or clubbing with the cosplay set, dressed up as a manga superhero.

A lot depends on how much time you have and how comfortable you are diving into Tokyo's complex but efficient public transport system . To maximize the experience on your first trip to Tokyo, here are our favorite things to do.

1. Experience a traditional Japanese art form

One of Asia's most iconic cities, Tokyo only became the capital of  Japan in 1868, when the country's rulers decided to abandon centuries of conservative tradition and embrace the outside world.

Since then, Tokyo has looked firmly to the future, but the city still has a deeply traditional heart, best experienced through its arts.

Planning tip:  For a sample of traditional Tokyo, watch kabuki (theatrical dance) at the  Kabuki-za theater in  Ginza , eat a traditional multi-course kaiseki meal to a backdrop of performing geisha in  Asakusa , or admire one of the 7000-plus Japanese treasures on show at the  Edo-Tokyo Museum .

2. Dive into the fun of Akihabara's pop culture

The  Akihabara neighborhood is almost a pilgrimage destination for the city's otaku (die-hard pop-culture fans), who define their lives through themes of geeky nostalgia and artistic eccentricity.

Flanking Akihabara's main avenue, Chuo Dori, are stores full of secondhand video game consoles, towering gaming arcades and manga comics stores, as well as flagship anime merchandise shops.

If you’re on the hunt for old-school video game treasures, peruse the bountiful shelves of  Retro Game Camp and Super Potato Retro-kan. However, you don't need to love manga or anime to enjoy this quirky neighborhood.

With its neon-bright electronics stores, retro arcades, cosplay cafes – and the chance to drive go-karts through the streets – it's equal parts sensory overload, cultural immersion and just plain fun.

3. Taste the Pacific at Tokyo’s fish markets

Bestowed with the honorary title of "Japan’s Kitchen,"  Tsukiji was formerly the location of the city's most famous fish market, but the bulk of the wholesale fish-selling shifted to  Toyosu Market on Tokyo Bay in 2018.

Nevertheless, there's still plenty of action at Tsukiji, where the outer market area remains much as it was in the early Showa Period when the market was founded. The cramped alleyways are permeated by the saline smells of the Pacific.

A rainbow menagerie of sea creatures decorates the stalls from top to bottom daily, and octogenarian fishmongers hail passersby with promises of culinary delights.

Over at Toyosu, the largest seafood market in the world conducts its business inside huge ventilated hangars in Koto Ward. Built as a state-of-the-art upgrade to Tsukiji, it lacks the rustic charm of its predecessor, functioning more as an efficient seafood trading floor.

However, it’s now home to Tokyo’s legendary morning tuna auctions – a great addition to any itinerary for early risers.

Planning tip:  The fist-sized seared scallops, tamagoyaki (rolled omelet) and uni (sea urchin) sushi at Tsukiji are must-eats.

4. See cutting-edge digital art at teamLab Borderless

The modern art collective,  teamLab , has made Tokyo the focal point for its ultra-technologist experiments in art and modern media.

Engage with its digital creativity is at Borderless in Azabudai's MORI Building Digital Art Museum, where you can walk barefoot through water, gardens and large-scale artworks that move and respond to human interaction.

Weaving together several fantastical worlds, this futuristic art experience is surprisingly delightful and makes for some great photos. Digital art is trending all over Tokyo, and you'll see it worked into many other attractions around the city.

Get to know more of Tokyo through its 7 best art museums

5. Join the shopping legions in Harajuku

The tree-lined avenue of  Omote-sandō is famed for blending modern Japanese aesthetic preferences with Western hipster trends.

This vibrant thoroughfare, lined with zelkova trees, is dominated by high-end boutiques from Emporio Armani to Gucci, housed behind jarringly creative architectural facades. The  Tokyo Plaza , with its fractal mirrored entrance, is particularly prepossessing.

The backstreets of Harajuku are Tokyo's street-fashion laboratory; this is where you'll find the trendsetters, the peacocks and the style photographers who chronicle it all – and the vintage clothing stores staffed by resident bohemians that keep everything moving.

Planning tip:  Keeping in line with the hipster theme, hit up  Commune 2nd for lunch, a large outdoor canopy surrounded by food trucks serving favorite Japanese street bites such as karaage (battered chicken thighs) and tebasaki (fried wings), alongside vegan cuisine and craft beer stalls.

6. Enjoy the big thrill of live sumo 

Sumo, one of the most enduring elements of Japan’s spiritual culture, originated in the early Nara Period (710–794 CE) when bouts between wrestlers were conceptualized as a way to entertain the Shinto gods.

Although sumo is undeniably a sport in the modern age, much of the religious pageantry lives on: the salting of the pre-bout ring, the almost ascetic dedication of wrestlers and the reverential regard in which yokozuna (grand champions) are held.

Planning tip:  Sumo has six live annual events, three of which take place in Tokyo’s  Ryōgoku Kokugikan in January, May and September. Tickets often sell out well in advance, so keep your eye on the  official website for ticket release dates. If you’re lucky enough to nab one, mentally prepare yourself for a liquid lunch of rice wine, impassioned crowd support and highly audible slaps of belly on belly.

Explore beyond Tokyo with these top day trips

7. Eat Michelin-starred Japanese cuisine

Washoku (traditional Japanese cuisine) was designated an intangible element of cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2013, and Tokyo is its standard-bearer.

More than 200 Michelin stars have been awarded to restaurants across the capital, ranging from simple ramen shops, where a bowl of soup costs less than an hourly wage, to 11-course haute cuisine menus that will burn a fairly sizable hole in your retirement fund.

Planning tip:  For raw fish, beg your hotel concierge for a seat at the elegantly simplistic  Sushi Saito (but don't be surprised if you get passed over for a local VIP). Ramen lovers should slurp stone-milled noodles topped with truffle oil at  Tsuta in Sugamo, while modern fine dining is typified by  Florilège , a double Michelin-starred French-Japanese fusion, where tasting menus are prepped in the culinary theater of an open kitchen. 

8. Have a night out at the pubs and karaoke bars in Tokyo's yokocho

Yokocho (alleyways) are as much a part of Tokyo’s culture as its urban design. Shinjuku’s  Golden Gai is the most popular yokocho zone, with 250-plus ramshackle pubs crammed into an area the size of a football field (including a vibrant collection of LGBTIQ+ dance bars).

Nomiya Yokocho is a less-touristy option in off-beat Kita-Senju, with a new wave of foreign restaurants joining the charmingly claustrophobic chaos of its traditional bars.

Alternatively, check out Kichijoji’s  Harmonica Alley , a network of corridors filled with the crackle of dripping meat skewers on open grills, cheap-as-chips standing bars pouring draft glasses of Asahi, and hole-in-the-wall snack joints.

Expect to find a karaoke parlor or two nearby where you can finish the evening at full volume.

9. Marvel at the crowds at Shibuya crossing 

This is the Tokyo you’ve dreamed about and seen in movies: the frenetic pace, the mind-boggling crowds, the glowing lights and the giant video screens beaming larger-than-life celebrities over the streets. At Shibuya’s famous "scramble"  crossing , all of this comes together every time the lights change, and it’s an awesome sight.

Planning tip:  Come during the day to get the perfect overhead shot from a nearby rooftop, or on a Friday or Saturday night, when you'll find the volume turned up to 11.

10. See the cherry blossoms in Yoyogi-kōen 

Come spring, thousands of cherry trees around the city burst into white and pink flowers, ushering in the season for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). If Tokyoites have one moment to let their hair down en masse, this is it.

Locals gather in huge numbers in parks and along river banks for cherry blossom-viewing parties under a canopy of pink and white flowers.

Grassy  Yoyogi-kōen , one of the city's largest parks, is where you'll find some of the most spirited and elaborate bacchanals, complete with barbecues, sake-sipping and DJ turntables. Many revelers stay long after dark for the spectacle of yozakura (illuminated blossoms at night).

11. Engage with Japanese spirituality in Sensō-ji 

The spiritual home of Tokyo's ancestors, the Buddhist temple of  Sensō-ji was founded more than 1000 years before the city got its official start.

While engulfed by the city today, it retains an alluring, timeless atmosphere redolent of the height of the Edo period and the mercantile bustle that defined Tokyo's golden age.

The main plaza holds a five-story pagoda, renovated in 2017, and a giant cauldron of incense kept constantly smoking by the crowds of visitors who throng the compound daily, particularly at weekends. Altogether, Sensō-ji is a heady mix of the secular and sacred and one of Tokyo's most iconic sights.

Planning tip:  Pick up snacks and souvenirs from vendors at the colorful Nakamise-dōri arcade approaching the temple complex.

12. Find your calm in the gardens of Rikugi-en

Powerful daimyo (feudal lords) ruled much of Japan from the 10th to the 19th centuries, but in Tokyo – a city stricken over the centuries by rampaging fires, earth-shattering quakes, bombing raids and poor upkeep of traditional architecture – few visible remnants of their influence remains. 

One place to look for the powerful magic of old Tokyo is at the  Rikugi-en garden in Bunkyo Ward. Designed by Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu, lord of the Kawagoe estate, around the turn of the 17th century, this is a bucolic splotch of green amid the turgid bustle of urban Tokyo.

Mossy footpaths, waka poetry-inspired spiritual masonry, mirror-like ponds and cobblestone bridges are joined by shifting autumn foliage and a resplendent weeping cherry tree in spring. Come and step back through a few centuries.

13. Immerse yourself in a cartoon world at the Ghibli Museum

Even those unfamiliar with the magical world of master animator Miyazaki Hayao – creator of anime classics including Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away – will find this  museum enchanting. Fans just won't want to leave.

Miyazaki designed the space himself, and like his films, it's filled with whirring steampunk-esque machines and fairy-tale structures.

While you won't see staff cosplaying any characters, many famous Ghibli characters have been cleverly worked into the fabric of the museum. Walking around really does feel a bit like falling into the fantasy worlds created by Miyazaki Hayao.

14. Discover the secrets of Shinto at Meiji-jingū

Tokyo’s largest and most famous Shintō shrine feels a world away from the bustle of the modern city. It’s reached via a long, rambling forest path marked by towering torii (entrance gates), and its grounds are vast, enveloping a series of wooden shrine buildings and landscaped gardens in a thick coat of green.

Meiji-jingū is a place of worship and a memorial to Emperor Meiji, and it’s also a place for traditional festivals and rituals, where weddings are held and milestones are celebrated – something you might catch if you time your visit right.

Here is more expert advice to help you plan your trip to Tokyo:

Here are  8 things to you need to know before traveling to Tokyo Time your visit just right with this guide to  the best times to visit Tokyo: from spring cherry blossoms to winter lights Work out where to base yourself. Here are  Tokyo's best neighborhoods

This article was first published April 2020 and updated March 2024

Explore related stories

Mar 23, 2024 • 17 min read

From classic Japanese food and sights to local favorites and under-the-radar trends, these are 24 of the most inspiring experiences in Japan.

Mar 22, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 14, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 16, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Aug 25, 2023 • 8 min read

Aug 11, 2023 • 8 min read

Feb 23, 2023 • 7 min read

Jan 12, 2023 • 5 min read

Jan 2, 2023 • 12 min read

• 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 (69) on “ 45 Best Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan ”

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!

Wow, I had no idea Tokyo had such a huge and fascinating list of things to do. Keep the post for further reference.

I appreciate this. It’s a really thorough manual. I also adore Tokyo! I thought I could have eaten there off the streets because it is that clean!

This was so helpful… I had a great time in Tokyo thank you.

Thank you, you look great in the pictures!

Great information. Looking at going to Tokyo next April for a music concert. Have to do the Mario kart experience. Also want to see the Ghibli museum and experience all the crazy food. Love the budget planner and all the information, so much detail. Definitely going to do a lot of research and planning beforehand. Thanks.

This was amazing thank you so much for giving all this information and your experience! Sounds like you guys had an amazing time! My best friend and I are going to Tokyo (upcoming summer) and this website was really great to read and get tips on where to stay and go. Thank you!

This is such a good post with so many great ideas! I’ve always wanted to try the real life Mario Kart haha. I was supposed to be heading to Tokyo in a couple weeks but unfortunately my flights were cancelled! I’ll definitely be saving this post for whenever I’m able to go again. ?

Appreciate your info. We’ll be visiting Tokyo, Mt Fuji and Hiroshima next year. You have mentioned everything we put on our top ten things to do which is now a top 25. We are hoping 11 days can allow us to do most. Had we read your info before booking we would have added at least 3 more days. Thanks, Daisy, Orlando, Fl.

You are very welcome, Daisy. If you have any questions, feel free to comment back and we’ll do our best to answer!

I love love this post, it is very comprehensive. I already know where check out when I visit. I love your photos too! Sleeping in a Ryocan is also high up in my list thanks to you!

All of the Ryokans we have stayed in have been wonderful. They tend to have the nicest staff and the environment is peaceful. I’d highly recommend it.

Visiting Japan is on my bucket list! Tokyo seems really a fun place to visit. Driving the Mario Kart and visiting Disneyland would be to on my to do list there. Thanks for all these great ideas, they are surely going to make our trip to Tokyo incredible!

No problem, Anjali! Happy to help!

I’m hoping to visit Japan soon and this is such a great list of things to do in Tokyo. I had never heard of a lot of these activities and the Anata no Warehouse looks really neat and like a must do. I usually like staying in private rooms but the capsule hotels look like such a unique experience and like you have privacy.

Hey Brianna, staying in a capsule hotel is definitely an experience! Just to note, Anata no Warehouse is no longer open, but there are still a ton of things to do in Tokyo left on the list!

I can’t wait to visit Japan and Tokyo (hopefully this year) and I want to experience all the things from this list! Capsule hotel is a must I think. Seems like you had so much fun!! 😉

Wow never knew Tokyo has such huge list of things to do and that too so interesting. Saving the post for future use.

Thanks Madhu!

Such a perfect guide to Tokyo and makes me want to take a flight right now. Now I know whey there’s a Japanese garden (replica) in almost every other city – it’s thanks to this iconic Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Oh I so badly want a picture in front of those cute buildings. Thanks for sharing your inspiring experiences.

Sounds like you have the start of a good Tokyo itinerary! Let us know when you go and we’d be happy to help sculpt the rest of your route

I have always wanted to stay at a capsule hotel, but apparently it’s not recommended for people with claustrophobic. ☹️ I guess an AirBnB will be my next choice. I only got to the airport so far, but I got to experience a few things in the list, like matcha Kit-Kat, ramen, and the singing toilet.

There are a few hotels that are like "Pod-hotels", similar to a capsule but about 2 or 3 times bigger. That might be something to check out if you’re really interested in staying in one. Hope that helps!

You totally had me at triving a MariCar Mario Kart! I love that you get to costume-up for the tour as well. It wouldn’t be Japan without the oppotunity to dress up!

Such an iconic thing to do in Tokyo!

OMG this is such a helpful guide to Tokyo! I’ve never bene but will be pinning this for when I finally make it there. Usually with blog posts like these there are a few things I’d like to do, but this list is stacked with amazing activities and things to do! I seriously want to do and see and eat everything on this list! The Mario Kart racing looks so fun and Robot Restaurant looks absolutely insane. I always love a good rooftop view, bonus points for the free view from the Metropolitan Government Building!

Thanks Krista! We are pleased to hear you liked the article so much!

ooh this is perfect! I’m heading to Tokyo in a little over a month, so this was super helpful! I’m definitely excited for all of the gardens, temples, and food!

Hope you have a great time in Tokyo! Let us know if there are any more things to do in Tokyo that we could add to the list.

Great list! By the way, the Tsukiji Fish Market is still open (alive and kicking). It’s only the Tuna Auction that’s been moved to Toyosu 😉

Noted, and updated in the article. Thanks!

Wow – what an extensive guide to Tokyo!

Some absolute gems in here. Visiting a sumo training session is still something I’ve yet to do and as a sumo fan it’s a gap in my experiences. Reading about them again here reminds me I need to book one of those this year.

Also, I totally agree on Wi-Fi rental for anyone travelling in Japan. It will make your life so much easier and one router can support multiple devices (laptops and mobile phones) – so they are great value for money.

Great work!

Hi Rob. We would love to go to a sumo training session too! It’s definitely on the list for next time. And yes, yes, yes you need a Wi-Fi rental! We were so lost without one. We have a nice pocket WiFi through SkyRoam and won’t leave home without it ever again.

I would love to check out Disneyland Tokyo. Japan seems to be such a cool country.

Japan is cool! I can’t wait to go back someday!

Japan is on my bucket list but holy moly this post has made me more excited than I ever was before. This is excellent thank you so much! I am saving this for my trip planning and I will absolutely be doing everything on this list. Driving Mario Karts on Tokyo streets??!!! I love the tip for getting a panoramic view of the city. Definitely going to head out to the Buddha and go for a nice forest walk – love having a place like that to go to from a busy city.

Thank you so much for the kind words – we are so happy to hear it is helpful. We were so excited to read so many great suggestions in this article from other travelers, and we can’t wait to get back to Tokyo and experience more!

This is a great comprehensive guide to Tokyo! Good job!

I love to read collaborative posts because they offer a diversity of unique impressions, experiences, highlights … of a bunch of people. I love to find out what everyone likes about the place from their point of view. Different people, different views, different impressions, different experiences – love it!

Totally! We feel lucky to have such a great round up of advice from all types of travelers! We have definitely added a few things to our list for next time in Tokyo.

Wow, congrats on such a thorough post, such an awesome collaborative piece! I am so happy to hear that there would be lots of vegetarian options and I love all the food related things to do – my kind of place! We would also enjoy Red Lantern and the National Garden, love anything nature related! We have never been to Tokyo but the modern mixed with the traditional sounds fascinating and matcha ice cream – sign me up! 🙂

Haha yes, matcha ice cream for sure! Have you used Happy Cow before? It’s pretty handy for finding good veg options anywhere in the world!

This entire list is my new Tokyo, Japan bucket list! WOW. There is so much to see and experience. You nailed it saying Japan is a melding of old and new, of traditional and modern.

So happy you’ve found it useful! Tokyo is such a unique place!

Tokyo seems interesting with something for every type of traveler! I would love to visit Tokyo Somei Onsen Sakura for the spa experience or stay at least one night in a capsule hotel, if only to see how well I cope with so little space.

Yeah, definitely something for everyone! Adventure, food, and quirky experiences all in one place!

Thanks for this! It’s a very comprehensive guide 🙂 I love Tokyo too! It’s so clean I felt I could have eaten off the streets there!

Yes, so clean!! Glad you liked it ☺

My kids would love the Mario Kart tour and I had no idea that you visit a Sumo stable

I think Mario Kart would be fun for all kids at heart! Such a unique experience! And seeing the sumo wrestlers practice is high on our list for our next visit to Tokyo!

Wow! There certainly are some incredible experiences to be had in Tokyo! It seems like you’d need at least a week or two just in the city to experience it all!

There are so many things to do in Tokyo that is can be hard to choose your favorites. We’d recommend just to pick some major things and then fill in the gaps!

I love that you have given such an extensive post about Tokyo! I really want to visit Japan, but not sure how much time I could spend in Tokyo. I will definitely be saving your post for when I make the trek!

Tokyo is wonderful, but I can understand the itch to explore the rest of Japan! So many amazing places to see!

Love This! Really comprehensive guide. I visited Tokyo a few years ago but just on a stopover from Australia. With a slight "Lost in Translation" obsession at the time I visited the Park Hyatt & a few other things on the list (sushi at the fish market & the tiny bars were amazing!). I plan to head back to see a lot more of Japan & have pinned this for then. Thank you for sharing!

Tokyo is definitely worth another stopover! We’ve been there twice now and have barely scratched the surface!

Um, real life Mario kart? SIGN ME UP. Definitely saving this for future reference, super helpful ☺️

Get your bananas and turtle shells ready!!

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.

15 Best Things To Do In Tokyo Japan: Food, Temples, & Castles

Tokyo Japan is commonly rated the world’s #1 city for travel, and there are so many things to do.

Even though it’s the largest metro area in the world, it’s also one of the safest and easiest to get around, thanks to Japan’s convenient rail system.

Here’s our list of some of the best things to do in Tokyo Japan! Most of these are free or can be done on a pretty modest budget!

Table of Contents show Where To Stay In Tokyo Best Things To Do In Tokyo Japan 1. Visit The Samurai Museum 2. Eat At Omoide Yokocho 3. See The Famous Shibuya Crossing 4. Explore Akihabara District 5. Join A Tea Ceremony 6. Shop For Souvenirs 7. Ride A Bullet Train 8. Climb The Tokyo Skytree 9. Visit Sensoji Temple 10. Visit Kawasaki Temple 11. Wear A Kimono 12. See Mount Fuji 13. Day Trip To Kamakura 14. Day Trip To Matsumoto Castle 15. Day Trip To Snow Monkey Park Tokyo Hotels Best Tours In Tokyo Japan More Tokyo Travel Tips

Where To Stay In Tokyo

Kanzashi Hotel

Mitsui Garden

Best Things To Do In Tokyo Japan

1. visit the samurai museum.

No Tokyo trip would be complete without a visit to the Samurai museum in Shinjuku. You can see swords, armor, helmets, guns, and more historical stuff here.

The entrance fee is a little on the high side, but it includes a free guided tour in English. After the tour you can get your photo snapped wearing a Samurai helmet, or you can even wear a full Samurai costume if you want!

Unfortunately this museum has been closed ever since the covid pandemic disrupted travel, but hopefully it will reopen again soon!

Read More: Shinjuku Samurai Museum

2. Eat At Omoide Yokocho

The Shinjuku district is a good place to try some Japanese eats. One of the most famous spots is the Omoide Yokocho alleyway, where you can find all kinds of grilled meat skewers and other things in a laid back ‘street food’ type setting.

3. See The Famous Shibuya Crossing

The Shibuya Crossing is famous as the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world — as many as 3,000 people cross the intersection at a time!

It’s fun to watch the sea of people crossing the street, especially on a weekend. This also happens to be a great area for shopping or eating, so you’ll want to stick around.

Shibuya is the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing

4. Explore Akihabara District

This is the major electronics district of Tokyo. You can find anything related to electronics here, but it especially caters to anime/manga and video gaming. The SEGA and Nintendo retro game shops here are fun to explore.

5. Join A Tea Ceremony

As you may already know, tea is a big deal in Japan, and it can be a fun cultural experience to join a Japanese tea ceremony!

This is an important traditional ceremony that takes place on a tatami (floor mat), and a lot of preparation goes into it. The tea ceremony is full of artistic detail. For Japanese people, it’s meant to represent purity, tranquility, respect, and harmony.

Even if you’re not really a tea lover, it’s a good dose of Japanese culture and history. Some places also let you rent a kimono to wear as an add-on, making the experience even more immersive and unique.

Book Now: Tea Ceremony In Tokyo

6. Shop For Souvenirs

Of course you can’t leave Tokyo without doing some souvenir shopping.

There’s the usual assortment of fridge magnets and keychains, or you can bring home an artsy paper fan, ceramic bowl, kimono, or Japanese knife.

The Shinjuku and Shibuya districts are two of the best for shopping, but we also found some great souvenirs in places we didn’t expect it, like the street stalls at Sensoji Temple.

Fridge magnets for sale in Tokyo

7. Ride A Bullet Train

It’s always fun to travel by train, and Japan has some of the best. The trains here are very efficient and some of the rural routes can be incredibly scenic.

Japan’s futuristic bullet trains are called ‘shinkansen’ and they’re especially fun to ride since they can go hundreds of kilometers per hour. You can ride these on the JR East and JR Central lines near Tokyo.

If you buy a Japan Rail Pass (also known as JR Pass ) you can enjoy unlimited rides on JR trains for one, two, or three weeks. This can be a very cost effective way to do long distance train travel in Japan!

Shop Now: Japan Rail Pass

Faster than a speeding bullet!

8. Climb The Tokyo Skytree

The Skytree is the tallest tower in the world, and the 2nd tallest building in the world (after the Burj Khalifa in Dubai). From the top of this tower you can get some great views of the Tokyo cityscape.

9. Visit Sensoji Temple

Sensoji is the biggest and most popular temple in Tokyo. It’s also the oldest, since it was built in the 7th century.

If you only visit one Japanese temple during your time in Tokyo, this is the one to see! On the outside, it has a five-story pagoda and a giant paper lantern that’s popular for photos.

Sensoji also happens to be a great place for souvenir shopping. We found lots of great stuff in the street shops surrounding the temple.

All in all, Sensoji was one of our favorite things to do in Tokyo.

Read More: Sensoji Temple

Sensoji Temple is the oldest and most popular temple in Tokyo

10. Visit Kawasaki Temple

Kawasaki Daishi is one of the nicer temples in the Tokyo area, in Kawasaki City.

It may not be quite as big and famous as the one at Sensoji, but it’s worth a stop if you’re looking for more things to see in Tokyo.

This one was originally built in the 12th century, but it was mostly destroyed in World War II. Even though the current building is a reconstruction, it’s still pretty impressive and looks authentic.

The approach to the temple takes you through a narrow street lined with dozens of cool shops selling souvenirs and food. At the end of the street you’re greeted by the huge main temple hall, along with a big five-story pagoda and gate.

The temple is located in Kawasaki City, just south of Tokyo, or about 7 kilometers (4 miles) from Haneda Airport. It’s pretty easy to reach via Japan’s rail network, and the train station is just a 5 or 10 minute walk from the temple.

Kawasaki is more than just a motorcycle brand

11. Wear A Kimono

There are lots of kimono rental shops in Japan where you can rent the country’s famous traditional dress for a day.

My wife rented a kimono in Tokyo and we headed over to the famous Shibuya Crossing — perfect photo spot!

If you ask the locals, they aren’t offended at all by foreigners wearing the kimono. Japanese people like to see others enjoying their culture.

Cheesing at Shibuya Crossing

12. See Mount Fuji

As the highest peak in Japan, Mount Fuji is also one of the country’s most beloved icons. You’ll see it on postcard photos, souvenirs, and artwork all over Japan, and you should see the mountain with your own eyes too!

The Fuji area is spectacular and you can visit it on a day trip from Tokyo. Prime photo spots include the scenic lakes and the Chureito Pagoda, which is a picturesque five-story pagoda you can photograph with Mount Fuji in the background.

Long ago Fuji used to be an active volcano, but it hasn’t erupted for hundreds of years (since 1707). If you enjoy hiking, you can also climb Mount Fuji! The trail is beginner friendly, but also challenging enough to be a good workout.

Book Now: Mount Fuji Day Trip / Private Tour

13. Day Trip To Kamakura

Kamakura is one of the closest day trips you can take from Tokyo since it’s just 1 hour south of the Tokyo city center. Some top tourist sights here are Hasedera Temple and the giant Buddha statue at Kotoku-in.

The famous giant Buddha statue at Kamakura is easy to visit from Tokyo

14. Day Trip To Matsumoto Castle

Japan has lots of Samurai castles left over from its medieval period. These fortresses are impressive works of art and they can be fascinating to explore.

If you run out of things to do in Tokyo city, Matsumoto is an awesome black and white castle that you can visit on a day trip from Tokyo.

This is one of Japan’s top 3 Samurai castles, along with Himeji and Kumamoto.

Read More: Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle is a black and white Samurai castle you can see on a day trip from Tokyo.

15. Day Trip To Snow Monkey Park

One of the best winter day trips you can do from Tokyo is to visit the Snow Monkey Park near Nagano.

This is a long day trip (ideally it’s better to do as a 2 day trip), but you get to hang out with Japanese snow monkeys in the mountains and watch them soak in the natural hot springs.

The monkeys are hilarious to watch, and photo ops are endless. There’s a bit of easy hiking required, but the snowy view along the way is one of the best parts of the trip.

Read More: Jigokudani Monkey Park

The Japanese snow monkeys are a blast!

Tokyo Hotels

Best tours in tokyo japan, more tokyo travel tips.

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this list of some of the best things to do in Tokyo Japan.

Don’t forget to check out my complete Japan Travel Guide for more tips, info, and photos!

You may also like

Dhigurah island: budget paradise in the maldives, how to visit tanjung puting national park in indonesia, banggai islands travel guide & itinerary for sulawesi indonesia, paisu pok lake in banggai: bluest lake in indonesia, samet nangshe viewpoint: best sunrise spot in thailand, 7 days in bhutan travel itinerary: best things to do & see.

Very well presented.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

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

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 •

Harajuku •

Shinjuku Gyoen •

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 •

Edo Open Air Museum

Kiyosumi Garden

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

The Perfect 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

• Last Updated: March 30, 2024

Headed to the Land of the Rising Sun and looking for an itinerary for the capital? Read on for a jam-packed guide on how to spend 3 days in Tokyo!

Planning a trip to Tokyo can be a bit intimidating. With over 38 million people in the metro area, this is the most populous city in the world.

You know those videos of people being packed like sardines onto a subway car? Yeah, they were probably taken in Tokyo!

The Japanese capital is more like 23 cities, as each of the special wards offers something different. While Asakusa is very traditional, Harajuku is the place to be if you want to take in Japan’s youth culture.

In such a massive city, you won’t be able to see it all in just 72 hours. That being said, you can cover a lot of ground on a Tokyo itinerary if you have a solid plan.

READ MORE: Check out our list of the best things to do in Tokyo !

Table of Contents

Nakamise Shopping Street

Senso-ji temple, choose your own adventure, museum of your choice, otaku culture, toyosu fish market, yoyogi park, meiji shrine, takeshita street, tokyo metropolitan government building, imperial palace, roppongi hills, tokyo tower, shibuya crossing, mario kart irl, best hostel in tokyo – grids, best mid range hotel – hotel ryumeikan, best luxury hotel – mandarin oriental.

The first thing you’ll want to do when figuring out what to do in Tokyo in 3 days is which wards you’re most interested in.

You can visit a couple of them on each day but there’s no way you’re hitting them all in such a short time!

Thankfully Tokyo has a vast and efficient public transportation system to help you get around. You can even take day trips to various cities around the Tokyo Bay area.

The underground network is so expansive here that the map looks like some kind of multi-tentacled anime creature.

You can really go anywhere in the city on the Tokyo metro subway lines.

READ MORE: Here’s our brand new guide to travelling in Japan to help you plan your next big trip!

Unfortunately, there are several different rail systems operating here. For a 3 days in Tokyo itinerary, your best bet is picking up one of the 72-hour Tokyo metro tickets .

The Klook website is the cheapest place to buy these, a bit cheaper than buying them at the station.

Another good tip is to pick up a Suica IC card . These are what all the locals use to pay for, well, just about anything.

Buses, metros, vending machines, 7/11, these little pre-paid cards are essential to making your time in Tokyo much less complicated, so you’re not constantly trying to find correct change.

Do yourself a favour and buy one. You’ll thank me later.

BONUS –  Booking ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on the tour, and get the best price too! And just for NOMADasaurus readers, if you use the Klook discount code  “NOMADS10”  on the website when checking out, you’ll get $10 off your first booking!

Now it’s time to decide what to do in Tokyo in 3 days. In my humble opinion, it’s good to have a list of places you want to check out but also remain flexible.

You will most definitely get lost in Tokyo. Chances are you’ll see, hear, or smell something interesting and take a detour. It’s best to go with the flow, people!

I’m going to provide you with some ideas on what to see in Tokyo in 3 days, but I’m also going to let you choose your own adventure by offering multiple options.

If you’re ready to get lost in translation, read on for an epic 3 days in Tokyo itinerary.

This trip assumes you’re visiting Tokyo on the weekend, so you’ll want to double-check the opening days and hours of the attractions listed if you’re headed there during the week.

READ MORE: Don’t miss out on these best day trips from Tokyo !

Day 1 – Morning

While you may be tempted to dive off the deep end and crush a massive sushi breakfast on your first day, I suggest saving that for day two.

If you’re wondering what a traditional Japanese breakfast is, people usually eat rice, miso soup, fermented soy beans (known as natto), grilled fish, and some pickled vegetables.

People usually wash it down with green tea rather than coffee.

Once you’re full and caffeinated, it’s time to get on with your busy Tokyo itinerary.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our list of the best places to visit in Japan .

On my first visit to Tokyo, I started out in Asakusa. That’s exactly where I’m sending you to begin your 3 days in Tokyo itinerary.

Take the tube to Asakusa station and drop into the tourist information centre if you want to have a look around there first.

Not only are the staff here super friendly and helpful, but you can also head up to the 8th floor to enjoy an amazing (and free!) view.

Heading north, the first thing you’ll see is the Kaminarimon Gate (Thunder Gate).

The traditional gate has a massive lantern in the middle and two guardian statues on either side.

This is one of the most popular places to snap a photo in all of Tokyo, so get your camera ready!

Next up, take a walk up Nakamise Shopping Street. This bustling outdoor market is full of vendors selling traditional snacks as well as souvenirs.

If you wanted to pick up a kimono or some ningyo yaki – a sweet cake filled with red bean paste – this is the place to do it.

When you walk to the end of the shopping street you’ll find Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple.

Built way back in the 7th century, this Buddhist temple is an important piece of the city’s history.

It’s definitely one of the top things to see in Tokyo in 3 days, and more than 30 million people visit each year.

Go ahead and linger a bit to take it all in all of the sights of the temple, but don’t forget that you’ve got a busy 3 days in Tokyo ahead of you!

Remember how I said I’d let you choose your own adventure for your 3 days in Tokyo?

Well my friends, you’ve got quite a few options once you leave the temple. Here’s a quick recap of what you can do in the area:

• Take a rickshaw tour of Asakusa
• Walk around the riverside Sumida Park
• Take a Sumida river cruise
• Head to the top of the Tokyo SkyTree (cheapest tickets for this is on Klook)
• Visit the Asahi Beer Hall (it’s not too early for a cheeky brew, is it?)

Before we move this 3 days in Tokyo party along, you’ll want to grab some lunch.

There are tons of options in Asakusa, including plenty of excellent ramen shops.

Day 1 – Afternoon

After some lunch – and maybe a cup of coffee with feline friends in a cat cafe – it’s time to move along with your Tokyo in 3 days itinerary. Hop back on the train and cruise over to Ueno Station for our next stop.

There’s perhaps no better place to be on a nice day in Tokyo than Ueno Park.

The park is especially lovely during the cherry blossom season, which happens from late March to early April.

Ueno Park has so much going on that you could honestly spend your entire 3 days in Tokyo here.

Obviously, you’re not going to do that, so you’ll have to be a bit picky about what you choose to do.

Here are just a few of the options:

• Take a boat around Shinobazu Pond
• Visit the Ueno Zoo
• See the statue of Saigo Takamori (a famous general)
• Check out the Toshogu Shrine
• Drop in the Tokyo Culture Hall
• Hit one of the many museums
• Book a guided tour of the park if it’s cherry blossom season!

Ueno Park is home to several fantastic museums. With just 3 days in Tokyo, you’ll probably have to choose just one.

In my humble opinion, I recommend going to the Tokyo National Museum.

This museum has an impressive collection of over 100,000 pieces spread across several buildings.

It’s the largest and oldest museum in Japan and definitely a must-see in Tokyo in 3 days.

The Tokyo National Museum costs 620 yen to enter.

There are a few art and science museums to see when you visit Tokyo if you’re more into those than history.

You can check out the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, the National Science Museum, the teamLab Borderless digital art museum, or several others.

Day 1 – Evening

As I’m sure you’re realizing by now, this Tokyo in 3 days itinerary is a doozy! Make sure you take some time here and there to kick back on a park bench.

Once you’ve caught your breath, get back out there and keep this 3 days in Tokyo train rolling.

After taking in a bit of traditional Tokyo, it’s time to check out the modern side of the city.

The perfect place to do that is Akihabara, which is just a short walk or train ride from Ueno Park.

This area was named after Akiba, a deity that can control fires. After a fire destroyed the area in the 1800s, the people here built a shrine dedicated to Akiba in hopes of preventing future fires.

You won’t find the shrine here anymore, but you will find a dizzying array of electronic shops.

Here you can peruse computers, phones, cameras, TVs, and much more. Akihabara has definitely earned its nickname – “Electric Town.”

Even if you’re not shopping for electronics, it’s worth visiting Akihabara over your 3 days in Tokyo just to experience the unique otaku culture.

In Japanese, otaku is a somewhat derogatory term used to refer to someone who is a huge nerd. We’re not talking just any kind of nerd, though. Otaku are people who are obsessed with anime and manga.

People have come to embrace their otaku status and wear it proudly. This part of Tokyo is basically a mecca for otaku and very much caters to them.

Walking around the streets of Akihabara is like being inside of a video game or comic book.

There are anime and manga shops and images all over the place, as well as tons of cosplayers handing out flyers for places like maid cafes.

“What is a maid cafe?” you may be asking yourself. It’s pretty simple – it’s a cafe where girls dress up like maids and treat customers like their masters.

If it sounds weird, that’s because it is. Embrace the odd during your 3 days in Tokyo, people!

READ MORE: Travelling elsewhere? Check out our list of the best things to do in Japan .

While you’re in the area, you’ve got to drop into a pachinko parlour. Pachinko is basically Japan’s answer to the slot machine, and it’s all the rage here.

These machines function as gambling devices, even though gambling for money in Japan is illegal.

The way they skirt the law is by having players win pachinko balls that are then exchanged for prizes.

There’s an exchange separate from the parlour where you can then swap your prize for some cold hard cash.

Trying your hand at a game of pachinko is for sure one of the top things to do in Tokyo for 3 days.

It’s time once again to choose your own adventure! After an exhausting first of 3 days in Tokyo, it all depends on how much gas you’ve got left in the tank and what your priorities are for day two.

Your options for dinner in Tokyo are basically endless. You might want to try out one of the fun conveyor belt sushi joints, find a place to chow down on wagyu beef , or search for some of the city’s best street food.

Whether or not you dabble in Tokyo’s nightlife by going on an epic pub crawl is really up to you. If you hope to catch the auction at the Tsukiji Fish Market, you’ll probably want to call it an early night.

That’s because you have to get there around 5 in the morning if you want to grab a spot!

If you could care less about watching people throw fish around, then get out there and rip it up on a night out in Tokyo!

I honestly haven’t experienced much of the nightlife there yet, but this is an excellent guide to drinking in Tokyo .

Day 2 – Morning

If the Toyosu Fish Market is on your list of things to see in Tokyo in 3 days, then day two starts really early for you!

Should you go this route, you might want to make sure you’ve got a coffee and a snack ready to get you going.

I should note that Toyosu is relatively new. Many guides to Tokyo list the Tsukiji Fish Market, but the wholesale market relocated in October 2018 for a variety of reasons.

These days, the tuna auction takes place between 5:30-6: 30 AM.

If you’re cool watching from the upper-level observation area, just show up a few minutes early. Just be warned that you might not see very much from here.

Those who want to watch from the lower floor need to apply in advance. To do so, head to the official website and scroll to the bottom for the English option.

Applying doesn’t guarantee you a spot, as it’s a lottery system. If you’re lucky, you’ll get notified about a week in advance.

You don’t have to see the auction to enjoy a visit to the fish market. It’s interesting just walking around there for a bit and worth the trip just to smash a massive sushi breakfast in one of the many restaurants.

This is definitely one of the top things to do in Tokyo in 3 days!

For all the relevant information about visiting the new fish market and the changes that have happened since the move, I highly recommend reading this article .

Day 2 – Afternoon

After walking around a fish market, you’ll probably want to swing back to your accommodations for a shower.

If a sushi breakfast isn’t your thing, now is the time to grab some food and fuel up for the second of 3 days in Tokyo.

When you’re ready to rock, hop on the tube and head to Harajuku Station. This part of Tokyo is a centre of Japanese youth fashion and culture and a really fun place to explore.

If you need a snack or a pick-me up, there are a few cafes right around the tube station, including yet another cat cafe. They’re kind of a big deal here…

Before you check out the trendy side of Harajuku, head into Yoyogi Park.

Yoyogi Park is one of the largest parks in the city, full of ponds, fountains, and wide open green spaces.

The highlight of visiting Yoyogi Park is the Meiji Shrine. It was built back in 1920 to honour Emperor Meiji.

He passed away in 1920 after seeing Japan through a time of great change. It’s actually Emperor Meiji who is credited with opening the Land of the Rising Sun to the west.

Meiji Shrine is a peaceful, beautiful place to spend some time. To access the shrine, you walk up a tranquil path and through the traditional torii gate.

In a city as big and bustling as Tokyo, it’s amazing how easy it is to escape into nature.

After visiting the shrine, head out of the park to nearby Takeshita Street.

This narrow street is the epicentre of Tokyo’s youth culture and is full of boutique shops, cafes, fast food joints, and all the things teenagers love.

Takeshita is bumping on the weekends with trendy teens who come here to show off their unique fashion sense and do some shopping with friends.

It’s a great place for some people watching, window shopping, and snacking.

Day 2 – Evening

Our 3 days in Tokyo itinerary has now officially passed the halfway point. Congratulations!

I’m sure you’re pretty spent by now, but you’ve got to push on as there’s a lot more to see and do.

For the evening portion of your 2nd day, head just a few stops north on the tube to Shinjuku Station.

At this point in the trip, you may have noticed that a hole has been burned in your wallet.

Tokyo isn’t a cheap city to visit, that’s for sure. That’s why this next stop is such a good one – it’s totally free!

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building has an observatory that’s 202 metres above the city streets.

It’s the best place to go for panoramic views of Tokyo and it doesn’t even cost you anything.

Be sure to add a stop here to your list of things to see in Tokyo in 3 days.

It’s been a long day in Tokyo, so how you choose to spend the rest of your night is up to you at this point.

Some people might just want to grab a quick bite to eat and call it a night, and that’s totally understandable.

You’ve only got 3 days in Tokyo, though, so I recommend digging down deep, summoning your 3rd wind, and powering through to check at least one or two more things off your list.

One cool thing to do in this area is visiting the Samurai Museum. It’s open until 9 PM and is worth checking out, if only just to snap a pic of you in a badass Samurai costume. Or you could go to sumo tournaments and see the famous sport in action if you’re a sport fan!

If you’re interested in experiencing a bit of sensory overload along with your dinner, be sure to check out the Robot Restaurant.

It’s basically the dinner show version of an acid trip.

NOMADasaurus Note – The Robot Restaurant was perhaps the BEST thing we did in Tokyo on our recent trip! Trust us, do it. – Alesha and Jarryd

As you might expect, the Robot Restaurant is quite popular. Tickets sell out well in advance, so be sure to book them early .

The price tag is a bit steep, but when else are you going to have such a wild dinner experience?

By booking through Klook you get the cheapest price possible (they have a special deal with the Robot Restaurant), and you get VIP entry and a souvenir.

If lasers and robots aren’t your style, there are plenty of other options for dinner around here.

Whatever you do for dinner, it’s worth it to cruise over to Golden Gai for a nightcap.

This area is full of narrow, winding alleys that are home to some very cozy bars. Some of them can only hold a handful of people.

This makes for a very authentic Japanese drinking experience and is a great addition to your 3 days in Tokyo itinerary.

Day 3 – Morning

Hopefully you didn’t do too many sake bombs in Golden Gai, but if you did that’s cool, too!

Go ahead and sleep in, get yourself a leisurely breakfast, and get ready to tackle the last of 3 days in Tokyo.

When you’re ready to rock, hop on the train and head over to Tokyo Station. Just a short walk from here, you’ll find the Imperial Palace.

It’s located at the former site of the Edo Castle and remains home to the imperial family.

You can sign up to join a free tour of the Imperial Palace, but you’ll want to make sure to do so in advance.

Head to their website up to one month in advance to secure your spot.

Even if you don’t score a spot on a tour, it’s worth visiting the palace grounds.

The Imperial Palace East Gardens are stunning and definitely one of the best things to see in Tokyo in 3 days.

Another thing to check out near the Imperial Palace is the Wadakura Fountain Park. It’s a scenic place to sit down for a quick breather and grab a cheeky cup of coffee if you need some fuel for the rest of the day.

After exploring the palace grounds for a while, head out the southeast corner and cross the moat to access Hibiya Park.

It’s a pleasant little park and a good spot for a quick stroll.

The main reason to walk through this park, though, is to snap a photo of the Godzilla statue that’s right around the corner.

Put Blue Oyster Cult’s “Godzilla” on and sing along – “Oh, no, there goes Tokyo! Go, go Godzilla!”

To be honest, the statue is kind of small and underwhelming, but the novelty alone makes it worth the quick stop.

Plus, there are lots of restaurants and cafes around here and you’re probably ready for lunch at this point in the day.

Day 3 – Afternoon

It’s been a whirlwind 3 days in Tokyo so far, and we’re almost to the finish line.

For the afternoon on your final day in the city, cruise over to the Ginza district.

Ginza is the place in Tokyo to see and be seen. It’s the premier shopping district for the Japanese capital and is home to countless luxury stores, cafes, and restaurants.

During the warmer months (April-September), the central Chuo Dori street is shut down to traffic and becomes a bustling pedestrian zone.

Other cool things to do in Ginza include seeing a kabuki show at the Kabukiza Theatre or visiting the Nissan and Sony showrooms at Ginza Place.

If you didn’t make it to the new fish market on day two, you can swing by the old one today.

The Tsukiji Fish Market isn’t home to the auctions anymore, but it’s still open and there are plenty of places to munch on fresh sushi here.

Day 3 – Evening

It’s time once again to choose your own adventure! For your final night of 3 days in Tokyo, you’ll want to be sure to get some nice sunset views.

Here are a few options including the famous Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Crossing, and more.

This is a massive development project and the brainchild of building tycoon Minoru Mori.

It has apartments, office spaces, restaurants, movie theatres, shops, and more.

The idea was to create a place where people can live, work, and play, thus basically eliminating the need to commute.

Here you’ll find the Tokyo City View observatory. Tickets are a bit steep at 1,800 yen, but they also include admission to the Mori Art Museum.

If you don’t mind splurging a bit, the views here are pretty incredible.

If you want some epic views of the city but don’t want to fork over so much yen, you can head to the Tokyo Tower instead.

The Tokyo Tower is like the Japanese capital’s answer to the Eiffel Tower. The top of the Tokyo Tower also has a nice observation deck and it only costs 900 yen.

Standing at 333 meters tall, Tokyo Tower serves as a symbol of rebirth after World War II.

Book tickets to the Tokyo Tower on Klook!

We wrap up 3 perfect days in Tokyo in Shibuya. Coming out of the Shibuya Station, you’ll see the famous statue of Hachinko.

There’s a beautiful story behind this loyal dog, so be sure to read it before your trip!

Hopefully, you can handle crowds because our next stop is the Shibuya crossing.

Famed to be the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, over 2,500 people crisscross the street here on each light.

If you want to see the view of the crossing from above, your best bet is to pop into the Starbucks.

There’s no sneaking a free peak here, though, as they ensure that you buy something before you can approach the window. Grab a cup of joe and sit down to watch the madness below.

Hands down, one of the coolest things to do in Tokyo in 3 days is playing real-life Mario Kart.

MariCAR allows you to dress up as famous characters like Yoshi and ride a go-kart through the busy streets of Tokyo.

Just don’t go tossing any banana peels off to the side – that’s dangerous!

You have to book it ahead of time , and you must have your International Drivers Permit with you in order to do the activity.

If you’ve got any energy left, there are plenty of cool bars and music venues in Shibuya.

There you have it, my friends – an awesome plan for how to spend 3 days in Tokyo!

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Now that you’ve got a badass itinerary for 3 days in Tokyo, you’re probably wondering where you should say in this sprawling metropolis.

Honestly, as long as you’re in the city proper and are near an underground station, you’re good to go.

Some of the most popular areas to stay in Tokyo include Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza, and Asakusa.

Here are a few options for some accommodation in Tokyo to suit all budgets:

There are plenty of excellent hostels in Tokyo, which is great news for budget travellers.

If you’re balling on a budget, a solid choice is Grids . They’re so popular that they have three locations in the city with a fourth on the way.

You can choose between their Asakusa-Bashi, Akihabara, and Nihombashi locations.

Whichever one you go with, you’ll find a comfortable hostel in a great location.

Dorm beds go for under $25 a night here. They have a nice cafe and bar on-site here as well and serve a buffet breakfast for a reasonable price.

All of their properties have awesome reviews, so they’re clearly doing something right!

If you’re the type of traveller who appreciates a good deal, you’ll love the Hotel Ryumeikan. It’s just a stone’s throw away from the central Tokyo Station and double rooms go for $200 or less here.

The rooms here are well-appointed and, while they seem a bit small, are actually pretty big for Tokyo. They also have tea and a Nespresso machine, plus some super comfy pajamas you can use.

You can start your day off here with a fully-stocked breakfast buffet featuring both Japanese and western cuisine. Other amenities here include a laundry service and coin-operated machines if you’d rather just do your own.

When it comes to luxury accommodations in Tokyo, it’s hard to top the Mandarin Oriental.

This 5-star hotel is centrally located near Tokyo Station in the city center on the top nine floors of the Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower.

This swanky hotel has it all – a spa, gym, business centre, event space, and more. It also boasts a whopping 12 restaurants, 3 of which are Michelin-star.

Of course, all this luxury comes at a price. Even the cheapest option here runs close to $700 a night even in low season.

Then again, this place always comes up in lists of the “best hotels in the world,” so it’s worth the splurge for this one!

Sasha and Rachel

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The Best Day Trips from Every City in Japan [2024]

18 Amazing Things to Do in Kyoto at Night (2024 Guide)

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Chino in Nagano, Japan

Related posts, 21 awesome things to do in yokohama, japan [2024], the perfect yokohama itinerary for 1, 2 or 3 days (2024), the 18 best things to do in kyoto, japan (2024 update), 6 thoughts on “the perfect 3 days in tokyo itinerary”.

I’m traveling to Tokyo at the end of Oct. Which company in Tokyo helped you get a ENFS visa?

Hi Chase, sorry we are not too sure. We did not have to get a visa to enter Japan as a tourist. Sorry we can not help. All the best.

Many thanks for this very good travel guide about 3 days in Tokyo. I’ve visited Tokyo several times and I can highly recomment a trip to this metropole.

Good ideas for the 5 days I’m in Tokyo (lazy) tnx

Glad to help. Have a great trip.

Thanks so much! This has been so helpful in my query for the upcoming trip hopefully when the pandemic is over. I get so excited waching the pics and learning about your adventure. My flight was actually cancelled and was given an option to rebook for a year to choose from so I was wondering when is the best time to go there with a weather suitable to my tolerance 🙂 I dont want too cold nor too humid…Cn you give suggestion please 🙂 I appreciate it so much! Godspeed to you both and more adventures to come !

Leave a comment Cancel reply

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

• Destinations

Amazing 3 DAYS in TOKYO (Thrilling Itinerary with 21 Things You Can’t Miss)

This site uses affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Welcome to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, Japan! Ready for action-packed 3 days in Tokyo?

Known for its cutting-edge technology, unique culture, and vibrant cityscape, Tokyo is a city that never sleeps .

With its mix of ancient traditions and modern innovation, Tokyo offers a captivating experience for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the heart of Japan’s urban life.

In this 3-day itinerary, I will take you on a journey through some of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods , historic sites , and culinary delights .

From the dazzling lights of Shinjuku to the serene gardens of Tokyo, get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this dynamic city!

Let’s dive into an action-packed 3 days in Tokyo , where you can explore the best of what this world-renowned city has to offer. For those wanting to extend their stay, consider adding on 5 days in Tokyo for a more comprehensive experience!

You Might Also Like:

Ultimate 16-DAY JAPAN ITINERARY for Marvelous Culture, History, and Nature

Easy DIY Shibuya and Harajuku Walking Tour (11 Best Stops+Maps+Tips)

What to do in shibuya (11 things to explore in the vibrant heart of tokyo).

Amazing TOKYO to HAKONE Day Trip (7 Fun Things You Can’t Miss)

Discover 6 JAPANESE TEA CEREMONY STEPS for a Meaningful Experience

• 1. Tokyo At-A-Glance
• 2. Map of Action-Packed 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary
• 3. Amazing 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary
• 3.1.1. Shibuya Scramble Crossing
• 3.1.2. Hachiko Memorial Statue
• 3.1.3. Shibuya Center-Gai
• 3.1.4. Yoyogi Park and Meiji Shrine
• 3.1.5. Takeshita Street
• 3.1.6. Omotesando Avenue
• 3.1.7. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
• 3.1.8. Shinjuku Golden Gai
• 3.1.9. Omoide Yokocho Alley
• 3.1.10. Kabukicho District
• 3.2.1. Sensoji Temple
• 3.2.2. Tokyo National Museum
• 3.2.3. Akihabara District - Electric Town
• 3.2.4. Maid and Gundam Cafes
• 3.2.5. Anime and Manga Shops
• 3.2.6. Arcades and Game Centers
• 3.2.7. Rent a Go-Kart in Akihabara
• 3.3.1. Toyosu Fish Market
• 3.3.2. Ginza
• 3.3.3. Imperial Palace
• 3.3.4. Roppongi
• 4. Intrepid Scout's Tips for 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

Tokyo At-A-Glance

Before diving in, here are a few helpful tips for planning your trip to Tokyo:

• Best Time to Visit Tokyo

Tokyo experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter, each with its unique charm.

Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Tokyo due to the famous cherry blossom season. Spring weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 C (50 to 68 F).

Summer (June to August): Summer in Tokyo can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius (77 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it is also a vibrant season with various summer festivals, outdoor events, and fireworks displays.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another popular time to visit Tokyo, with mild weather and beautiful fall foliage in parks and temples. The temperatures range from 15 to 25 C (59 to 77 F).

Winter (December to February): Tokyo’s winter is generally cold, with temperatures ranging from 0 to 10 C( 32 to 50 F). However, Tokyo’s winter illuminations and holiday decorations are spectacular, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city.

• Where to Stay in Tokyo

My first choice is to always stay in Ginza . Ginza is Tokyo’s luxury shopping district, known for its upscale boutiques, department stores, and high-end restaurants.

There are several hotels that I stayed at and really enjoyed. Check them out and see which one you like the best:

Muji Hotel Ginza – this is my first choice. The rooms are elegantly designed like all Muji products. The location is perfect near the JR Yamanote line. The in-room extras, all Muji branded, are great, with everything from the slippers to bags of Japanese sweets yours to take with you. The breakfast is lovely with healthy and high-quality food options.

AC Hotel by Marriott Tokyo Ginza – it is a beautiful, modern, and well-maintained hotel right in the heart of Ginza. The rooms are a good size, which is unusual for Tokyo, nicely designed, and super clean.

Agora Tokyo Ginza – stylish and elegant hotel. The location is great close to train stations. Rooms are on the smaller side, however, they are very comfortable and clean. You will love the bathroom which is beautifully designed and huge in size.

• How to Get Around in Tokyo

Tokyo has an extensive and efficient public transportation system that makes it easy to get around the city. Here are some common methods of transportation for navigating Tokyo:

The Tokyo Metro and subway are a convenient and efficient way to travel within the city, with multiple lines covering different areas. Make sure to get rechargeable IC cards such as Suica or Pasmo, which offer discounted fares and can be used on multiple transportation systems.

Japan Railways (JR) operates several lines in Tokyo, including the Yamanote Line, which is a loop line that circles central Tokyo and connects major neighborhoods.

Buses are another option for getting around Tokyo, although they are not as easy to use as Tokyo Metro and subway, as well as JR.

Taxis are widely available in Tokyo, but they can be more expensive compared to other forms of public transportation.

Walking is a great way to explore Tokyo’s neighborhoods like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa.

• Intrepid Scout’s Tip:

Make sure to buy JR Pass before going to Japan. It is a huge cost-saving tool . It allows unlimited use of most JR trains, including the Shinkansen (bullet trains), limited express trains, and local trains, for a set period of time (7, 14, or 21 days).

The JR Pass also includes some additional benefits , such as free seat reservations on most trains, which can be especially useful during peak travel times, and access to some JR buses and ferries. It also covers the Tokyo Monorail to/from Haneda Airport and the Narita Express to/from Narita Airport, which can be convenient for travelers arriving or departing from these airports.

Map of Action-Packed 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

Map of 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

Amazing 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

Shibuya scramble crossing, hachiko memorial statue, shibuya center-gai, yoyogi park and meiji shrine, takeshita street, omotesando avenue, tokyo metropolitan government building, shinjuku golden gai, omoide yokocho alley, kabukicho district.

Let’s start this 3 days in Tokyo itinerary at the Shibuya Scramble Crossing!

Located in the very center of Tokyo, the Shibuya Scramble Crossing is the most iconic symbol of Tokyo and the most famous pedestrian crossing in the world.

It is estimated that over 500,000 people cross the intersection every day, making it one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world.

Shibuya Scramble Crossing is unique for its “scramble” design, where traffic from all directions comes to a stop simultaneously, allowing pedestrians to cross in all directions, including diagonally, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of people moving in various directions.

Intrepid’s Tips:

Shibuya Scramble Crossing is a popular spot for photography and capturing the dynamic atmosphere of Tokyo. Here are some of the best spots for photographing Shibuya Crossing:

• Starbucks Shibuya Tsutaya – Located on the second floor of Tsutaya Shibuya, the Starbucks cafe offers a great vantage point overlooking Shibuya Crossing. However, it is a busy place and you might have to patiently wait for an opportunity to get to one of the windows.
• Shibuya Sky – The observation deck is located on the rooftop of the Shibuya Scramble Square building, which is one of the tallest buildings in Shibuya, is definitely one of the best spots to photograph the crossing.  The glass windows extend all the way to the floor, giving you uninterrupted views. However, there is an entrance fee to the deck which are s typically around 2,000 to 2,500 yen for adults.
• Shibuya Stream – Shibuya Stream has a rooftop terrace with an open-air deck with glass railings, providing an excellent spot for photography. But, it is not free. There is an entrance fee to the rooftop terrace which is typically around 2,000 yen.
• Pedestrian Bridges – There are two pedestrian bridges that you might want to check out: the Shibuya Mark City Bridge and the Tokyu Plaza Shibuya Bridge. Both are popular spots.
• Street Level – Don’t forget that capturing the energy and atmosphere of Shibuya Crossing from the street level can result in some unique and dynamic photos.

Right next to the Hachiko Exit of Shibuya Train Station, you will find the famous bronze Hachiko Memorial Statue . It commemorates the unwavering loyalty and devotion of a dog named Hachiko.

The story of Hachiko dates back to the 1920s when Professor Ueno , who worked at the University of Tokyo, adopted the Akita puppy and named him Hachiko.

Hachiko would accompany his owner to the Shibuya Train Station every day and would be there to greet him upon his return in the evening. However, in 1925, Professor Ueno unexpectedly passed away while at work, leaving Hachiko devastated.

Despite Ueno’s death, Hachiko continued to go to the Shibuya Train Station every day for the next nine years, waiting for his beloved owner to return.

Hachiko’s loyalty and devotion touched the hearts of the Japanese people and in 1934, a bronze statue of Hachiko was erected near the Shibuya Train Station as a tribute to his loyalty , devotion , and love .

The statue depicts Hachiko sitting with his body facing the train station, eagerly looking out for his owner’s return.

Nowadays, the statue has become a popular meeting spot for locals.

Hachiko Memorial Statue / 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary 

Shibuya Center-Gai , often simply referred to as “Center-Gai,” is a pedestrian street located in Shibuya known for its bustling and vibrant atmosphere. It stretches for about 350 meters and is lined with numerous trendy shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. It comes alive in the evening and it is a great spot to come back at the end of the day and hang out.

Here are a few places worth checking out:

• WEGO – WEGO is a popular Japanese fast fashion brand known for its trendy and affordable clothing, accessories, and cosmetics.
• Supreme – Supreme is a brand that originated in New York City and has gained a cult following around the world. It offers limited-edition apparel, accessories, and collaborations with various artists and designers.
• Disney Store – The Disney Store in Shibuya Center-Gai is a must-visit for Disney fans.
• Village Vanguard – Village Vanguard is a unique and eclectic store that offers a wide range of quirky and unconventional items, including books, stationery, novelty goods, and unusual gifts.
• Tower Records – Tower Records in the Shibuya Center-Gai location is known for its extensive collection of music, including CDs, vinyl records, and DVDs.
• Don Quijote – Don Quijote is a famous discount store chain. The Shibuya Center-Gai location is a multi-floor store where you can find everything from cosmetics, snacks, electronics, household goods, and souvenirs.
• Nonbei Yokocho – Nonbei Yokocho, also known as “Drunkard’s Alley,” is a narrow alleyway near Center-Gai that offers a nostalgic and retro atmosphere. It’s lined with small izakayas (Japanese-style pubs) and bars, known for their cozy and intimate settings. It’s a great place to come back to in the evening and experience the traditional Japanese drinking culture, and enjoy local food and drinks.
• Tokyu Hands – Tokyu Hands is a well-known department store and the Shibuya Center-Gai location is a multi-floor store where you can find a diverse range of products, including home goods, stationery, and beauty products.

Shibuya Center-Gai in the evening / 3 Days in Tokyo 

Next, we are going to a famous neighborhood in Shibuya called Harajaku. The main attractions here are Yoyogi Park, Meiji Shrine, the famous Takeshita Street, and Omotesando.

Yoyogi Park is a spacious public park that offers a peaceful retreat from Tokyo’s hustle and bustle. If you are visiting from late March through early April, then Yoygi Park is the best spot for hanami , which is the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the beauty of cherry blossoms.

Sunday is a great day to stop by Yoyogi Park. It becomes a gathering spot for street performers, musicians, and artists who showcase their talents to the public.

Adjacent to Yoyogi Park is the serene Meiji Shrine . It was established in 1920 and was dedicated to Emperor Meiji, who passed away in 1912, and Empress Shoken, who passed away in 1914. The shrine was built as a place of worship and to honor the Emperor and Empress for their contributions to Japan’s modernization and development during the Meiji era (1868-1912).

The shrine complex has a simple and elegant design. The main entrance to the shrine features a towering torii gate made of cypress wood, which is one of the largest wooden torii gates in Japan.

The pathway leading to the main shrine building is lined with tall trees, creating a sense of tranquility and serenity.

Torii Gate leading to Meiji Shrine / 3 Days in Tokyo 

Meiji Shrine / 3 Days in Tokyo 

One of the main attractions of Harajuku is Takeshita Street . It is a narrow pedestrian-only street lined with fashion boutiques, trendy cafes, and vibrant street food stalls.

Takeshita Street is famous for its unique fashion styles, ranging from Lolita fashion , which features elaborate Victorian-inspired dresses, to cosplay , which involves dressing up as characters from anime, manga, or video games.

Here are a few places on Takeshita Street that you should check out:

• Kawaii Monster Cafe – It is a colorful and quirky cafe that offers a unique dining experience. The interior features vibrant colors, whimsical decorations, and performances by costumed staff. The menu includes colorful and Instagram-worthy dishes, such as rainbow pasta and monster-themed desserts.
• Totti Candy Factory – One of the highlights of Totti Candy Factory is its giant rainbow cotton candy. They offer other sweets as well, such as candy apples coated in colorful candy and decorated with various toppings like sprinkles, cookies, and chocolates. They also have a selection of colorful lollipops and gummy candies.
• Crepe Stalls – Takeshita Street is famous for its crepe stalls. My two favorite ones are Marion Crepes and Angel Crepes. They offer a variety of sweet and savory crepes filled with delicious ingredients such as fresh fruits, whipped cream, chocolate, and more.

Takeshita Street / 3 Days in Tokyo 

Omotesando Avenue, a tree-lined boulevard, also known as Tokyo’s Champs-Élysées, is another prominent street in Harajuku. It is famous for its upscale fashion boutiques, luxury brand stores, and architectural marvels.

Some of the places that you should check out on Omotesando Avenue are Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku . It is a shopping complex with a distinctive mirrored entrance. While you are there head out to their rooftop terrace for great views of Tokyo!

Another great place is Kiddy Land . It is a paradise for toy lovers! Kiddy Land is a multi-story toy store that offers a wide selection of toys, character goods, and collectibles. It’s a fun place to explore and reminisce about your childhood memories.

And, finally, do not miss the Prada Building , an iconic architectural landmark designed by Swiss firm Herzog & de Meuron. The Prada Building is the flagship store of the luxury brand Prada. It’s unique glass facade and futuristic design make it a must-visit.

Tokyu Plaza Omotesando / 3 Days in Tokyo 

Intrepid’s Tip:

Find Out More About Shibuya

Next, we are heading out to Shinjuku and the first stop is Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building , also known as Tokyo City Hall or Tochō for short, is a prominent landmark in Tokyo, Japan.

It was designed by architect Kenzo Tange and completed in 1991. It consists of two twin towers, each rising 48 stories high and reaching a height of 243 meters (797 feet). The towers are connected by a large atrium and house various offices and facilities of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

One of the main attractions of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is its observation decks , which are located on the 45th floor of each tower and offer stunning panoramic vistas of Tokyo’s skyline and beyond. And, the best part is that admission is free!

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building / 3 Days in Tokyo 

Tokyo skyline / 3 Days in Tokyo 

Shinjuku Golden Gai is a network of narrow alleys famous for its atmospheric nightlife.

Each alley is lined with tiny, unique bars that can usually only accommodate a handful of customers at a time. Each bar has its own distinct character and theme, making it a fascinating place to explore and enjoy a drink or two in an intimate setting.

Shinjuku Golden Gai / 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

Another spot that you cannot miss in Shinjuku is Omoide Yokocho , also known as “Memory Lane” or “Piss Alley”.

It is a narrow alley lined with small, old-fashioned izakayas (Japanese-style pubs) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewer) stalls, which have preserved their original look and feel from the 1940s and 1950s.

The dimly lit lanterns, narrow passageways, and the smoke rising from the grills create a unique ambiance that is reminiscent of old Tokyo.

Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku / 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary 

Another spot that you cannot miss in Shinjuku is Kabukicho . It is a famous entertainment district filled with numerous bars, nightclubs, karaoke venues, and live music venues.

Kabuki-Cho Godzilla Head is an iconic landmark of Kabukicho. It is located on the rooftop of the Toho Cinema building. The Godzilla Head roars and spews smoke at regular intervals.

Kabukicho is also known for its adult-oriented entertainment , such as hostess clubs, love hotels, and adult-themed establishments.

Kabukicho District / 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

This concludes the first day of 3 days in Tokyo itinerary.

If you have any energy left, then my recommendation is to head out to the Robot Restaurant . It is a popular tourist attraction located in Shinjuku.

It is not actually a restaurant in the traditional sense, but rather a live entertainment venue featuring robot performances, bright neon lights, and colorful decorations.

Another idea is to schedule a Harajuku and Shibuya Evening Walking Tour . This a fun evening tour in two of Tokyo’s trendiest and most vibrant districts. You will discover hidden hotspots and under-the-radar neighborhood gems in Harajuku and Shibuya, and duck into cutting-edge boutiques. The tour includes a savory, Japanese-style dinner with local treats.

Sensoji Temple

Tokyo national museum.

• Akihabara District

Maid and Gundam Cafes

Anime and manga shops.

• Arcade. and Game Centers
• Rent a Go-Cart in Akihabara

We start day 2 of 3 days in Tokyo itinerary in Asakusa District . It is located in the northeastern part of Tokyo’s Taito City, near the Sumida River.

Asakusa is known for its historical and cultural significance, with many traditional Japanese landmarks and attractions.

The first stop is Sansoji Temple .

Sensoji Temple, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple, is a historic Buddhist temple dating back to the 7th century.

According to legend, Sensoji Temple was founded in 628 AD, when two fishermen discovered a small golden statue of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, in the nearby Sumida River. The fishermen enshrined the statue, and a small temple was built to honor it, making Sensoji Temple one of the oldest temples in Tokyo.

Sensoji Temple is a large complex that includes several main buildings, gates, and other structures. One of the most iconic features of the temple is the Kaminarimon Gate , which serves as the entrance gate to the temple grounds. The gate is adorned with a large red lantern and a massive wooden statue of Fūjin, the Shinto god of wind, on one side, and Raijin, the Shinto god of thunder, on the other side.

Beyond the Kaminarimon Gate is Nakamise-dori , a bustling shopping street lined with small shops selling various traditional Japanese goods such as snacks, sweets, souvenirs, and crafts.

Nakamise-dori leads to the Hozomon Gate , which provides access to the main hall of Sensoji Temple.

Sensoji Temple / 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

The next stop is an amazing Tokyo National Museum .

The museum is divided into several exhibition buildings, each with its own focus.

The Honkan (Japanese Gallery) is the main building and displays a comprehensive collection of Japanese art and artifacts, including Buddhist sculptures, samurai armor, ukiyo-e woodblock prints, and traditional crafts.

The Toyokan (Asian Gallery) houses a diverse collection of Asian art, including Chinese bronzes, Korean ceramics, and Indian sculptures.

The Heiseikan (Special Exhibition Gallery) features special exhibitions on various themes and periods, showcasing rare and important works of art from Japan and other Asian countries.

Tokyo National Museum / 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary 

Akihabara District - Electric Town

Next, let’s explore Akihabara District .

Akihabara, also known as “Electric Town” , is famous for its electronics stores, anime, manga, and gaming culture.

You will find numerous electronics stores that sell a wide range of gadgets, devices, and components. From the latest smartphones and computers to retro video game consoles and DIY electronics, you can find it all in Akihabara. Some popular stores to check out include Yodobashi Camera , Bic Camera , and Sofmap .

Akihabara District – Electric Town / 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

Akihabara remains the most well-known and popular location for maid and Gundam cafes .

The maid cafes are themed around waitresses dressed in cute maid costumes which are often elaborate and reminiscent of French maids. The waitresses adopt a friendly and cute demeanor, and address customers with terms like “master” or “mistress”.

The overall atmosphere is playful, welcoming, and definitely a one-of-a-kind experience where you can immerse yourself in the kawaii (cute) culture of Japan.

Here are a couple of maid cafes worth checking out:

• @Home Cafe – It is one of the oldest and most well-known maid cafes in Akihabara. It features a classic maid cafe theme with cute and friendly maids, playful performances, and a wide range of cutely decorated food and drinks on the menu.
• Maidreamin – It is a popular maid cafe chain with multiple locations in Akihabara and other parts of Japan. They offer a variety of cute and creative dishes, as well as entertaining performances and interactive games.
• Cure Maid Cafe is known for its Gothic Lolita theme, which features maids dressed in Victorian-style outfits with a darker and more elegant atmosphere compared to traditional maid cafes. They offer a unique twist on the maid cafe concept, with a focus on the Gothic and Lolita fashion subculture.

Gundam cafes are themed cafes that are based on the popular Japanese anime and manga franchise called Gundam.

Gundam is a long-running media franchise that originated in 1979 and features giant humanoid robots known as “mobile suits” or “Gundam”.

The cafes often have a futuristic and high-tech ambiance, with displays of Gundam models, posters, and artwork adorning the walls. The menu usually includes Gundam-themed food and drinks, such as burgers shaped like mobile suits, and Gundam-inspired desserts.

Some of the popular Gundam cafes are:

• Gundam Cafe Akihabara is an official Gundam-themed cafe located in the heart of Akihabara. It features a futuristic atmosphere with Gundam-themed decor, displays of Gundam models, and a variety of Gundam-inspired food and drinks on its menu.
• Gundam Cafe & Bar Akihabara is another official Gundam-themed. It offers a wide range of Gundam-themed food and drinks, including cocktails and other alcoholic beverages.
• CharaRIDE Akihabara is a Gundam-themed cafe that also offers a virtual reality (VR) experience that allows visitors to pilot a virtual Gundam and engage in virtual battles.

One of the best ways to see Akihabara and understand its unique culture is to join a guided tour. I attended this tour Akihabara Culture Tour and I liked it a lot. The guide was from Akihabara and a cosplayer. She had an incredible knowledge of anime, manga, arcades, and game centers.

Cutely decorated food at @Home Cafe / 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

Akihabara is a paradise for anime and manga lovers . There are numerous shops selling manga, anime merchandise, collectibles, and cosplay costumes. Places like Animate, Mandarake, and Toranoana are popular spots to explore for the latest anime and manga releases, limited-edition items, and rare finds.

My recommendation is to check out Mandarake Complex . It is one of the largest stores in the Akihabara area an extensive selection of new and used manga, anime DVDs and Blu-rays, action figures, trading cards, video games, cosplay costumes, and other related merchandise.

One of the highlights of Mandarake Complex is its vast collection of used and rare items, making it a treasure trove for collectors and fans looking for hard-to-find merchandise or out-of-print items.

Arcades and Game Centers

Akihabara is also known for its arcades and game centers that offer a wide range of video games and entertainment.

Here are a couple of places you might like:

• SEGA Akihabara Building 1 – This iconic SEGA arcade is a multi-floor game center with a wide selection of games, including classic arcade games, crane games (UFO catchers), rhythm games, and more. It’s a must-visit for SEGA fans and offers a diverse range of gaming experiences.
• TAITO HEY! Akihabara 1 – TAITO HEY! is a popular arcade chain in Japan, and the Akihabara location is one of the largest and most well-known. It offers a variety of games, including retro arcade games, modern video games, virtual reality (VR) games, and more.

If you want a better understanding of anime and gaming in Japan, then my recommendation is to join Akihabara Anime and Gaming tour . You will gain a better understanding of Japanese culture, plus you will visit a retro video game store, and a maid cafe, plus you will have a knowledgeable guide by your side who can answer all your questions.

Rent a Go-Kart in Akihabara

My recommendation is to finish the second day of 3 days in Japan itinerary by renting a go-kart in Akihabara .

There are several go-kart rental companies in Akihabara, such as Akiba Kart, Street Kart, and MariCAR.

If this is something you might like to do, then make a reservation in advance , as go-kart rentals in Akihabara are very popular and may have limited availability.

Go-Kart Rental in Akihabara / 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary 

Toyosu Fish Market

Imperial palace.

• teamLab Borderless Art Museum
• Roppongi Hills

Toyosu Fish Market is one of the largest wholesale seafood markets in the world. It is renowned for its fresh seafood auctions and serves as a hub for the distribution of seafood to restaurants, sushi shops, and retailers in Tokyo and beyond.

The market opened in October 2018 and replaced the iconic Tsukiji Fish Market , which had been in operation for over 80 years.

The Toyosu Fish Market is located on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay and covers an area of 40.7 hectares.

The market is divided into three main sections : the fish auction area, the intermediate wholesale area, and the fruit and vegetable market.

One of the main attractions of the Toyosu Fish Market is the live tuna auction , where buyers bid on fresh tuna that is carefully inspected and graded by market officials.

The auction takes place early in the morning at about 5:30 am and visitors are allowed to observe from a designated viewing area.

Toyosu Market / 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

In addition to the auctions, the intermediate wholesale area is a great place to visit and see how the seafood is processed, packaged, and distributed to buyers, including local restaurants and retailers.

A nice change from the seafood market is to visit the fruit and vegetable market where a wide range of fresh produce is traded.

I attended Tuna Auction and Tokyo Toyosu Fish Market Tour . It was amazing! You should definitely look into it.

You will watch the entire auction from start to finish, including tuna inspection from 5:00 to 5:30. Then from 6:30–9:00 your expert guide will give you a market tour and you will learn about tuna, auctions, markets, and Japanese food in detail.

You will also enjoy the panoramic view of Tokyo’s skyline, and learn about the history and geography of Tokyo.

Finally, you will savor authentic sushi for breakfast at the best sushi restaurant in the market.

Important: Auction viewing from the viewing deck requires an advanced online lottery. They will apply for you if you book the tour by the application deadline date!

Ginza is where I always stay when I am visiting Tokyo. It is my favorite place in Tokyo.

Ginza is known as an upscale shopping district. It has some high-end department stores and luxury boutiques. Probably the most popular is Ginza Six , a luxury shopping complex that opened in 2017. It has a mix of high-end fashion brands, art galleries, gourmet restaurants, and a rooftop garden.

Another place I need to mention is Ginza Mitsukoshi . It is one of the oldest and most prestigious department stores in Japan. Their flagship store is located in Ginza. They are known for their high-quality products, elegant interiors, and top-notch customer service.

I am sure that as you are strolling through Ginza, you will notice Ginza Wako . It is an iconic building in Ginza known for its distinctive clock tower and historic heritage.

What I like about Ginza the most is its diverse and high-quality dining scene. There are numerous restaurants in Ginza offering a wide range of cuisines, from traditional Japanese to international fare.

Here are three dining places in Ginza that are highly regarded for their culinary excellence. If any of them sound good, then make your reservations as soon as possible. They all are booked well in advance.

• Sukiyabashi Jiro is a world-famous sushi restaurant known for its top-quality sushi and the masterful skills of its chef, Jiro Ono. The restaurant has been awarded three Michelin stars!
• Ginza Kyubey is another renowned sushi restaurant in Ginza that has been serving top-quality sushi for over 80 years.
• Ginza Bairin is famous for its crispy and juicy tonkatsu made with carefully selected pork.

Ginza / 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary 

Read:   BEST RAMEN in GINZA – Slurp-tastic Ramen at IPPUDO

Next, let’s head out to the Imperial Palace.

The Imperial Palace is the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan and the Imperial Family. It is known for its beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and cultural significance.

Here is what not to miss:

• Imperial Palace East Gardens

The Imperial Palace East Gardens have beautifully maintained Jpanese-style gardens, with various plants, flowers, and trees, including cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. It is such a pleasure to walk along the moats, enjoy the scenic views, and escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.

• Nijubashi Bridge

Nijubashi Bridge is one of the most iconic spots in the Imperial Palace, known for its picturesque beauty. It is a double-arched stone bridge that spans the moat and leads to the main entrance of the palace.

• Imperial Palace Plaza

The Imperial Palace Plaza is a large open space located in front of the main entrance of the palace. It offers a panoramic view of the palace.

• Fujimi-yagura Turret

Fujimi-yagura is one of the few remaining turrets of the original Edo Castle, which was once located on the same site as the current Imperial Palace. It is a historic structure that offers a glimpse into the castle’s military defenses during the Edo period. You can explore the interior of the turret and learn about its historical significance.

• Sannomaru Shozokan Museum

Sannomaru Shozokan is a museum located within the Imperial Palace grounds that displays a collection of historical artifacts and treasures of the Imperial Family.

Imperial Palace / 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary 

The last stop of the day and the last activity on this 3 days in Tokyo itinerary is Roppongi.

Roppongi is known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, dining, and entertainment. However, one spot that you cannot miss is  Roppongi Hills . It is a modern complex that houses offices, shops, restaurants, art galleries, and observation decks offering panoramic views of Tokyo.

The Tokyo City View observation deck, located on the 52nd floor, offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, including Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree.

The Tokyo Skydeck , located on the rooftop, is an open-air observation deck that provides a 360-degree view of Tokyo.

Both observation decks are great and most popular during the sunset!

Tokyo at sunset / 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

Intrepid Scout's Tips for 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

I hope you got some ideas for how to spend 3 days in Tokyo. You can easily condense this itinerary and plan for 2 days in Tokyo.

If you like to take things at a leisurely pace then extend it to 4 days in Tokyo and add Roppongi Art Triangle . It is a collection of three art museums located in close proximity to each other in Roppongi, known as “Art Triangle Roppongi.” It consists of the Mori Art Museum, the National Art Center, Tokyo, and the Suntory Museum of Art.

• Mori Art Museum is a contemporary art museum located in Roppongi Hills that showcases a diverse range of contemporary art from Japan and around the world. The museum features rotating exhibitions of various art forms, including paintings, sculptures, photography, installations, and multimedia works. It is known for its innovative and thought-provoking exhibitions.
• The National Art Center, Tokyo is a unique museum that does not have a permanent collection but hosts special exhibitions of various art genres,
• The Suntory Museum of Art focuses on Japanese and Asian art, including ceramics, lacquerware, and textiles.

Also, it is a good idea to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and explore the surrounding areas. Here are my favorite day trips from Tokyo :

14 Practical Tips How to See SNOW MONKEYS in JAPAN (Best Trip from TOKYO)

Perfect ONE DAY in KANAZAWA – 7 Things to Do (BEST TRIP from Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka)

More Information About Japan:

14 Amazing Things to Do in Arashiyama (Map+Useful Tips)

What to See at Nijo Castle in Kyoto (10 Top Things to Know)

Stunning Golden Pavilion in Kyoto (How to Visit and What to See)

Amazing Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto (8 Things to Know Before You Visit)

First Visit to Kyoto – How to Visit and What to See (11 Things You Can’t Miss)

Perfect Day Trip to Miyajima from Kyoto, Osaka, or Hiroshima

10 Amazing Things to Do in Hiroshima You Can’t Miss of Your Visit 

You Might Also Like: 

275 Best QUOTES About JAPAN (JAPANESE Culture, Nature, Food, Anime, Proverbs)

Perfect ONE DAY in OSAKA Itinerary (6 Best Things to Do)

7 Fun and Easy DAY TRIPS from KYOTO (Useful Maps+Photos+Tips)

Read All the Posts About Asia in:

Asia Travel Guide

Read All the Posts About Japan in: 

Japan Travel Guide

Did You Find This Useful?

Why not save 3 days in tokyo to your pinterest board.

Now, It Is Your Turn, I Would Like to Hear Back from You!

Are you planning on visiting Tokyo? What is on your list of places to see in Tokyo?

Please let me know! Drop me a quick comment right below!

Click on any of the images below to get inspired and to help you with the planning process for your trip to Japan!

• alert('URL copied to clipboard.')).catch(err => console.error('Unable to copy to clipboard.', err))">

Share via Email

BEST RAMEN in GINZA - Slurp-tastic Ramen at IPPUDO

Tokyo to Hakone Day Trip (7 Fun Things You Can't Miss)

Perfect ONE DAY in KANAZAWA - 7 Things to Do (BEST TRIP from Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka)

@intrepid.scout

Leave an answer Cancel reply

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

The company processes your data to facilitate the publication and management of comments. You can exercise your rights of access, rectification, deletion and objection, among others, according to our Privacy policy .

Before you go, check this out!

Read all about how I saved a whopping $600 during a two-week stay in Japan!

What To Do in Tokyo in 3 Days? (Itinerary included!)

Got only three days to spend in Tokyo? It’s easy to stress out because that’s just 72 hours and it can go quite fast. With the right itinerary, though, you can plan every day to the minute so you can fit in all the activities and landmarks you want to see.

So what can you do in Tokyo in three days? Try following this itinerary to make the most of your trip: Day One:  Shibuya Crossing, Harajuku, Meiji-jingu Shrine, Nezu Museum, Yoyogi Park, Omotesando, Roppongi Hills Complex Day Two: Asakusa-jinja Shrine, Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa, Ueno-koen Park, Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum, Akihabara Day Three: Shinjuku, Imperial Palace Area, Yasukuni-jinja Shrine, Kitanomaru-koen Park, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Offices

Do you want hour-by-hour breakdowns of the above itinerary so you don’t miss a thing? Read on, as I’ll give you a schedule you can follow for each of your three exciting days in Tokyo.

Let’s get started!

Assuming you’re flying into Tokyo on your first day, you’ll have arrived at either the Haneda Airport International or Narita International Airport. Haneda has a single terminal at the JR EAST Travel Service Center, which is accessible by the Tokyo Monorail 2F.

There are two airport terminals through Narita, 1 and 2-3. Both terminals should pop you out around the JR EAST Travel Service Center and the Exchange Office.

From there, you’d want to get your JR Pass . You can then get on the Narita Express, which you’ll want to take to Shibuya. Don’t know what Japan Rail Pass is? Read all about it here .

8:30 a.m. Harajuku to Meiji-jingu Shrine at Yoyogi-koen Park and Nezu Museum

If you did all your traveling the day before, then you’d start your day already in Tokyo. In that case, let’s begin your morning a little differently. Hop a subway or train to take you to Harajuku. You can either ride the Chiyoda subway line through Harajuku Station/Meiji-Jingumae or ride the JR Yamanote Line right to Harajuku Station.

Once you get to Harajuku, take some time to witness the beauty of the Meiji-jingu shrine at Yoyogi-koen Park. Depending on which day you’re in Tokyo, expect the park to be busy. That’s especially true on the weekends, when events and festivals attract people to the park.

Make sure you see the shops on Omotesando, which is a major street in Harajuku. If you have the time, keep walking east. You’ll come across the Nezu Museum, which is known for its beauteous gardens.

11 a.m. Onwards to Shibuya

If you did squeeze in the time for the Nezu Museum, then it’s an easy enough walk to get to the Ginza subway. All you have to do is cross the Aoyama-dori and Omotesando intersection and head west. Once on the subway, ride to Shibuya. This should be a 15-minute trip, so it won’t take you long.

Get off the subway, following the Hachiko exit. Now you can enjoy the Shibuya Crossing, a populous destination in the city. It’s often incredibly heavy with foot traffic, especially when big events are going on. There are tons of boutiques and department stores to get lost in, but don’t stay for too long! There’s still more to see and do on your first day in Tokyo.

1 p.m. Lunch in Shibuya

There are countless restaurants in the area to choose from, so you certainly have your pick. You can try sushi at Uoriki, yakitori at Morimoto or Yakitori Tetsu (which is the cheaper of the two), soba noodles at Fukudaya, or teishoku at Echigoya Sandayu. Let your cravings and your wallet guide your decision.

2 to 2:30 p.m. Travel to Roppongi

After an hour to an hour and a half of dining, it’s time to take another ride so you can continue your day. This time, you want to be on the JR Yamanote Line, which you should ride to Ebisu Station. You’re not done yet, as it’s time to get on the Hibiya Line subway east. After two stops, you should be at your destination, Roppongi. This travel should take roughly 30 minutes.

3 p.m. Roppongi Hills Complex

While you’re in Roppongi, I recommend you take some time to see the Roppongi Hills Complex. To do so, you’ll have to go to the Mori Tower and ride 52 stories up to the Tokyo City View observation deck. It’s a gorgeous sight one of the best vantage points you’ll get of Tokyo!  

5 to 6 p.m. Dinner in Roppongi

After you finish with the breathtaking views of the observation deck, you’ve probably worked up quiet an appetite. You might as well stay in Roppongi and round off your day here with some delicious dinner. You can find teppanyaki at Restaurant Omae XEX, pizza at Pizzkaya Roppongi (yes, there’s pizza in Japan), and even Italian at Il Figo Ingordo.

If you want to be adventurous and eat Japanese fare, try ramen at Ippudo Roppongi Branch and French and Japanese fusion food at Narisawa or Takazawa.

7 to 8 p.m. Nightlife or Go Home

Depending on how tired you are, you might elect to stay and see Roppongi at night. This is one of the best-known areas of Japan when it comes to nightlife, so you would have made the right choice. But before you go partying in Roppongi, you really need to read this article. Tokyo might not be as safe as you think .

For some culture, you can visit art museums like Musee Tomo, Suntory Museum of Art, Mori Art Museum, and the National Art Center Tokyo . The Nogi-jinja Shrine is here if you missed it earlier in the day.

Otherwise, you can spend your time at Tokyo Midtown, which is an entertainment, dining, and shopping complex with a Ritz-Carlton Hotel right in the middle. It’s easy to spend hours here, but watch the time, because you don’t want to be out super late.

Wait until you see what’s in store for your second day in Tokyo.

8 a.m. Asakusa-jinja Shrine and Senso-ji Temple

Good morning! It’s your second day in Tokyo and there’s a lot you can do. Hopefully, you weren’t out too late partying it up in Roppongi, because you’ll want to be awake and traveling before 8 a.m. to make the most of your day.

Once you leave your hotel, you’ll need to get on the Ginza subway and ride it until you arrive to Asakusa. This is where you’ll find several buildings that are definitely worth seeing, such as the Asakusa-jinja Shrine and the Senso-ji Temple .

If you have the time, be sure to stop into the Edo-Tokyo Museum and have a look around. Also, if you can get tickets, you’d want to head to Ryogoku from Asakusa to see a live sumo wrestling event at Ryogoku Kokugikan. This is definitely worth doing at least once! In fact, it’s one of the most awesome things about Japan ! Make sure you keep reading until the end of this article, because I’ll talk more about live sumo matches. Make sure you keep reading until the end of this article, because I’ll talk more about live sumo matches.

11 a.m. Tosho-gu Shrine, Ueno-koen Park, and Tokyo National Museum

After you’ve had a few hours to enjoy the shrines and the museum in Asakusa, it’s time to move on. (If you’ve fallen in love with Asakusa you should check out the world’s tallest tower – Tokyo Skytree .) You want to get back on the Ginza subway. This time, ride it west for three stops. You’ll arrive at Ueno soon after.

There’s tons to do here, so expect to spend two or three hours in this part of Tokyo. For another landmark worth seeing, don’t miss the Tosho-gu Shrine. Ueno-koen Park, also known as Ueno Park , will keep you busy, too. After all there’s a zoo in there. You’ll also find cherry blossom trees, cafes and restaurants, and the Tokyo National Museum around here. Take some time to really take it all in and have some lunch while you’re at it.

2 p.m. Tokyo Station and Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum

When you’ve decided you’ve had your fill of Ueno Park, get on the JR Yamanote Line south. You want to ride it until you get to Tokyo Station. This is another nice place to eat lunch if you can’t find anywhere at Ueno Park that jumps out at you (unlikely, but hey, it happens).

When you get there, head into the Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum . Nearby areas of interest are Hibiya-koen Park and the Bridgestone Museum of Art. Take your time exploring these areas, as your day is essentially free from here.

5 p.m. Akihabara aka Electric Town

If you’re looking for a place to unwind and relax for a few hours, try a maid café at Akihabara. These are quite the attraction since the employees dress up in maid costumes. You’ll also find many electronics and tech shops here. Akihabara can be quite a popular destination, especially at night, when the billboards and buildings light up the streets.

Once you’re done exploring all Akihabara has to offer, head back to your hotel for the night. You’re probably quite tired from getting up so early anyway! While you won’t have as early a start for your last day in Tokyo, you do want to be well-rested.

9 a.m. Shinjuku and Imperial Palace Area

You wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the third and final day of your Tokyo trip. The first thing you want to do after you get dressed and showered is head to the Tokyo Station. You can get there by subway or train.

Upon your arrival, head east on foot until you reach the Imperial Palace East Garden. Plan to spend a good amount of time here since the garden is quite large, roughly 2.3 million square feet. It also gives you a chance to get a glimpse into the inner palace area, which is seriously a treat.  

You probably won’t get through all the gardens because that’s a lot to cover by foot, but do as much as you can. When you’re done, make sure you leave through the Kitahanebashi-mon exit. This’ll make it most convenient to continue on your way.

11:30 a.m. Yasukuni-jinja Shrine and Kitanomaru-koen Park

I hope your feet aren’t too tired yet since you’ll want to continue walking after you’ve left the Imperial Palace East Garden. Through the Kitahanebashi-mon exit, head north. You’ll come upon the Kitanomaru-koen Park.

Continue along the park to the Yasakuni-jinja Shrine. Near the shrine, you’ll see the Yushukan Museum, a war museum told from a nationalist perspective. It’s got a touch of a reputation, that’s for sure, so it’s worth checking out.

1 p.m. Lunch in Shinjuku, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Offices

Once you’re done with the park and the museum, get on the Shinjuku Line subway and take it west. Get off the train when you arrive in Shinjuku. Now that you’re here, it’s time to chow down.

There are nearly countless restaurants in Shinjuku, so you shouldn’t have a hard time finding a place to enjoy some lunch. If you miss American food, Brooklyn Parlor serves burgers and fries. Otherwise, you might try izakaya at Hibiki Shinjuku-ten, yakitori at Shousuke, sukiyaki at Imahan, or dim sum at Din Tai Fung. You can also find tempura at Tenkuni or Tsunahachi.

Now that your stomach is full, you can head over to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Offices, specifically the observation deck. Depending on the weather, you can get a pretty good view of Mt. Fuji and an even better view of most of Tokyo. It’s not one you’ll want to skip.

5 p.m. Dinner and Rest (Your Choice)

The way you spend the rest of the day is up to you. You can head back to one of the areas you enjoyed in the past few days, such as Ginza, Shibuya, and Shinjuku. You could grab a bite to eat at any of the plentiful restaurants. You might again choose to engage in some nightlife at Roppongi.

If you’re in Tokyo in September, May, or January, you might be lucky enough to be able to see a live sumo tournament . These last for about two weeks and only occur during those three months. You can also try an animal café. While cat cafes are incredibly popular in Japan, you can pet plenty of other fuzzy friends while sipping a hot beverage at Tokyo’s various animal cafes. There’s bunny cafes and even some that have hedgehogs, owls, and dogs.

If you liked the theming of the maid café, try a robot restaurant in Shinjuku. You might also elect to spend some more time shopping in Tokyo Midtown. If it’s early enough, you could even return to the Imperial Palace East Garden and pick up where you left off. Most days, the garden does close at 5 p.m. though, so you’d have to plan accordingly.

Once you feel like you’ve spent your day well, you can head back to your hotel, shower, pack, and rest up. Tomorrow will be a big travel day, but you sure did spend your three days well!

Other Considerations

As you follow this three-day Tokyo itinerary or plan your own, keep the following points in mind:

• Since you’ll be doing a lot of walking around outside, you don’t want your three days in Tokyo to be hampered by rain. While rain can occur any day, the rainiest times of year in Japan are June and July. Avoid traveling during those months if you can.
• Also, in July until September, weather in Tokyo can be very hot and humid , much like it is here in the US during the summertime. Again, since you’ll be outside so much, plan your trip around the weather.
• The subway metro system you’ll need to get around Tokyo requires a PASMO card. If you’ve ever been to New York City and used a Metro card, the concept is the same. You put a certain amount of money on the card and then run it through the turnstiles whenever you want to ride a subway. PASMO cards are available at train stations and airports. Don’t forget yours!
• You might have to stop at a convenience store to use an ATM with an American credit or debit card. ATMs throughout the city will not accept your card, so make sure you’re prepared with another source of funding for your trip.
• When you eat a meal in Japan, you’re not supposed to tip. Doing so could offend your waitstaff and lead to a potentially embarrassing situation for you.
• While Tokyo is regarded as a safe city , don’t be careless. Be aware of pickpockets and scammers. Keep your wits about you. Don’t bring all your money with you each time you leave your hotel. That’s what a hotel safe is for.

There are countless things to see and do in Tokyo, but with a tight, precise itinerary, you can hit most of the big spots and activities even if you only have three days to do so. I hope you enjoyed this guide and you were inspired by the itinerary. Feel free to tweak or otherwise change it any way you want so it matches your interests and level of enthusiasm. Good luck and enjoy yourself!

If you have any questions, you can always leave a comment, and I’ll do my best to answer it. 🙂

Why not pin it for later? You can also follow the The Tokyo Tourist on Pinterest. 🙂

Recent Posts

The 15 Best Animal Cafés in Tokyo

When you think of an animal café, Tokyo is probably one of the first places to come to mind for such an establishment, right? Originally getting their start in Taiwan, Japan took the idea of...

When Is the Best Time to Visit Tokyo? The Definitive Guide

You have no doubt in your mind that you want to visit Tokyo. The question becomes, when? Surely there are better times of the year than others, right? You wouldn’t mind traveling in the...

• Destinations

20 Coolest Places to Visit in Tokyo

Where to Go in Tokyo: List of 20 Best Places

If you think you have seen most of Tokyo after a few visits, you may be wrong! There are so many spots in Tokyo which are hidden or unknown, but really attractive and for sure soon will be crowded by tourists.

Today I have listed 20 best spots and areas in Tokyo which are cool and trendy, and highly recommended to those who want to explore the city deeper! Check out new trendy places to visit in Tokyo this year!

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

Tokyo is best known for its modern and futuristic side with high-tech and skyscrapers. But exploring the historical side is actually great thing to do as you can enjoy the totally different view of Tokyo.

Yanaka area is a true hidden gem which is located in the central Tokyo, yet has an unspoiled atmosphere and local vibes. Shop and eat like local at Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street and explore the charming neighbourhood!

More info ▶︎  Things to Do in Yanaka

Yanaka’s Old Town Walking Tour by Magical Trip is one of the most popular guided tours in Tokyo! If you want to see the different side of Tokyo rather than the city’s modern culture, this tour is highly recommended! Enjoy walking down the local streets, stop by for street snacks and hit some hidden spots!

▶︎▶︎Click this link and book the tour with a discount!

2. Nezu Shrine

Not too far from Yanaka area, Nezu Shrine is a shinto shrine located in Bunkyo ward, which is also walking distance from Ueno area. The shrine is best known for its Azalea festival in spring time, but a great spot to visit all year round.

If Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto is your thing, Nezu Shrine also have the gorgeous tunnel made with numerous vermilion torii gates, and it’s 100% photo worthy.

More info ▶︎  Nezu Shrine: Tokyo’s Most Underrated Shrine

If you like trendy spots like Shibuya and Harajuku but expect to see less crowds, Hiroo is a great choice. Although Hiroo is located within a short distance from the busy areas such as Shibuya and Ebisu, it has more relaxing and calm atmosphere. It’s home to several embassies and popular residential area for expats.

It’s a great area to explore the latest Tokyo food culture as numbers of swanky spots gather in this area, such as cafes and restaurants serving trendy and healthy items.

More info ▶︎  Hiroo: New trendy street food area in Tokyo!

4. Yayoi Kusama Museum

2017 was truly the year of the pop art queen, Yayoi Kusama after the big success of her exhibitions held in Tokyo and Kyoto. Her avant-garde sensation will surely continue, and we can not wait for her upcoming exhibition.

The brand new  Yayoi Kusama Museum has just opened in the center of Tokyo in October. The museum has been extremely popular and very hard to get admission tickets, so make sure to book tickets in advance along with a plan of your visit to Tokyo.

More info ▶︎  Yayoi Kusama Museum in Shinjuku, Tokyo

5. Tsukishima Monja Street

What is Monja?? Monja (Monja Yaki) is a traditional local dish in Tokyo, which could be extremely unique and unfamiliar to foreigners. It may look quite skeptical at first sight, but trust me, it tastes hundred times better than it looks.

Tsukishima area is known as the birth place of the dish and numbers of Monja restaurants gathers on the street called “Monja Street”. If you want to explore Japanese food culture deeper, go for Monja!

More info ▶︎  Tsukishima Monja Street: Tokyo’s Hidden Gourmet Gem

6. Sumo Practice Viewing

Sumo grand tournaments are always popular things to watch, which is only held at limited time of the year. But if you visit Sumo wrestlers’ home ground, you have the chance to peek a bit of real lives of wrestlers anytime of the year.

Numbers of Sumo training houses are located in Ryogoku area, Tokyo (Asakusa area and Tokyo Skytree) where wrestlers live and practice. Some of them are open for public and visitors can see their morning training session real close. Not only watching their dynamic and powerful actions but it’s also a place to learn Japanese tradition and disciplines which you may not see often in this modern days.

▶ Tour to Yokozuna’s Sumo Stable Morning Practice and Lunch with Wrestlers

Related article ▶︎ Review: SUMO Morning Practice Experience in Tokyo

If you are in Japan in the right time of the year, you can go and watch live matches of Sumo grand tournaments which are are held 6 times a year (3 times in Tokyo), and each one lasts for 15 days.

▶︎ Join Tokyo Sumo Tournament Tour (Tickets Included)!

7. Nightlife in Shinjuku

You may hesitate to dive deep into Shinjuku’s nightlife , but there are a lot of things to enjoy for tourists,  for example, taking night-time photograph with bright neon lights of Kabukicho, getting tipsy at authentic and low-key Japanese gastropubs at Omoide Yokocho and watching the coolest Tokyo’s city view at the high-rise skyscrapers’ observatories.

More info ▶ Shinjuku: Best Things to Do

Shinjuku also has a few amazing newly opened sites that can be enjoyed in day and night such as Kabukucho Tower, a 255m tall high-rise building with numbers of entertainment facilities inside, and everyone’s favourite Robot Restaurant reopening in Shinjuku with much anticipation.

More info ▶ brand-new Kabukicho Tower Booking ▶ Discount Tickets for Robot Restaurant

Out of many bars and Izakaya in Shinjuku area, it may be difficult for tourists, even Japanese to find a good one. One of the best ways to experience Tokyo’s drink culture is bar hopping tours with local guides. With the “Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku”, you can hit hidden bars in Shinjuku area and enjoy drinking with authentic Izakaya food like the locals. Check the following link to find more details about the tour!

▶️Book the Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku!

8. Tsukiji Honganji Temple

Tsukiji Fish Market is one of most visited tourist sites in Tokyo, but how many visitors stretch out to the gorgeous temple located right off the street? Tsukiji Honganji Temple is a Jodo Shinshu Buddhism temple with an unique look as the main hall of the temple was constructed with a motif of ancient Indian architecture.

Notably, there is a Japanese style cafe “Tsumugi” inside the temple, serving delicious and trendy Japanese dishes. It’s totally a great hideaway from crowds!

More info ▶︎  Tsukiji Honganji Temple

There are several notable landmarks in Shibuya area such as Shibuya Crossing, Shibuya 109 and Hachiko Statue at Shibuya Station. Although Shibuya has been one of the most popular districts in Tokyo for the past years, it’s now hotter place to visit than ever.

More info ▶︎  Best Things to Do in Shibuya

The district has been going under the massive redevelopment projects, and several new buildings and facilities have opened such as Shibuya Stream , Shibuya PARCO , Miyashita Park and Dogenzaka-Dori. The new sky-high observatory Shibuya Sky has also opened on the rooftop of  Shibuya Scramble Square .

Booking ▶ Shibuya Sky Observation Deck Ticket

The first official Nintendo store, Nintendo TOKYO also opened inside the newly removated Shibuya PARCO. Nintendo TOKYO offers a wide range of merchandise, games and devices including some limited items exclusively sold at the shop. The shop is located on the 6th floor of the building (CYBERSPACE SHIBUYA), right next to Pokemon Center Shibuya .

▶ What to Buy at Nintendo store in Tokyo

10. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter

The long-awaited Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter has finally opened in Tokyo in 2023 summer. The immersive facility recreates the world of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beast films in a large scale in a space of approx 30,000 square meters. Visitors can immerse into the magical world by exploring the iconic film sets which were actually designed and produced by the creators of the film series. Make sure to book your tickets in advance for the new Harry Potter theme park in Tokyo!

Booking ▶ Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter Ticket 

11. Inokashira Park

Tokyo has several great parks in the city center such as Yoyogi Park and Shinjuku Gyoen, but for more chilled and peaceful atmosphere, Inokashira Onshi Park is a perfect place. Inokashira Onshi Park is located at one of coolest neighbourhoods in Tokyo, Kichijoji area , where a lot of trendy and stylish cafes and shops gather.

The area has great access to Shibuya and Shinjuku. It’s one of the largest parks in Tokyo with a vast space including a pond, zoo, etc, and also a popular spot for cherry blossoms&autumn leaves viewing. The famous Ghibli Museum is located at the tip of the park. If you are a fan of Ghibli films, it’s definitely a place to visit (tickets must be purchased in advanced.)

Related article ▶︎  Inokashira Park Cherry Blossoms

12. teamLab Borderless and teamLab Planets

Wish to experience the modern Japanese culture with cutting-edge technology and digitized attractions?? Then you should definitely hit these digital art museums that opened in Tokyo in recent years.

There are two digital art museums produced by teamLab in Tokyo: teamLab Borderless and teamLab Planets , and both have been the most trending tourist attractions in Tokyo nowadays. TeamLab Borderless opened as the world’s first interactive digital art museum in Odaiba area in 2018 summer, and instantly became the hottest attraction in the city. Shortly after, teamLab’s second permanent museum, teamLab Planets opened at Toyosu area in Tokyo (near Toyosu Fish Market) with a body immersive space comprising virtual experiences and digital art installation.

In 2022 summer, TeamLab Borderless has closed its door and reopened in early 2024 inside the Azabudai Hills , a brand-new complex facility in central Tokyo, as part of the Toranomon-Azabudai Project. Meanwhile, teamLab Planets extended its closure date to the end of 2027 due to its popularity although it was set to close by the end of 2022.

Both museums are highly popular among both Japanese and foreign visitors, so it’s recommended to book the tickets in advance!

▶ Book Tickets for teamLab Borderless TOKYO, Azabudai Hills

▶ Book Tickets for teamLab Planets TOKYO in Toyosu

Related articles ▶ MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM: teamLab Borderless ▶ Teamlab Planets Tokyo in Toyosu

13. Art Aquarium Museum Ginza

▶ Book Tickets for Art Aquarium Museum in Ginza, Tokyo

14. Shin Okubo

If you are a K-pop fan or into Korean beauty products, there is no reason not to visit Shin Okubo, the biggest Korean Town in Tokyo. Shin Okubo is located in north of Shinjuku area, Tokyo and today it’s one of the most trending neighbourhoods in Tokyo, especially among the young generation thank to the K-pop boom across the world.

In Shin Okubo, you can find tons of K-pop idol merchandise, the latest Korean beauty products and street food and restaurants of authentic Korean cuisine. The streets of Shin Okubo is lined with hundreds of Korean shops and restaurants and they almost make you feel like being in a street of Seoul. If you are around Shinjuku area, you should definitely pop by Shin Okubo. (it’s only one stop by Yamanote Line!)

More info ▶ Shin Okubo: Korean Town in Tokyo

15. Trying New Japanese Food

What’s on your must-try food list for your trip in Japan?? Many people visit Japan to explore its wonderful food culture, so it would be sad not to try authentic Japanese dishes not only typical tourists favourite dishes like Sushi, Tempura and Ramen.

Here are some of the most popular Japanese dishes among Japanese and the list of the restaurants in Tokyo!

Tonkatsu (deep-fried breaded pork cutlet) ▶ Best Tonkatsu Restaurants in Tokyo Gyoza (pan-fried dumplings) ▶ Best Gyoza Restaurants in Tokyo Udon (Japanese wheat-flour noodles) ▶ Best Udon Restaurants in Tokyo Gyudon (rice bowl topped with simmered beef and onion)  ▶ Best Gyudon Restaurants in Tokyo Unagi (freshwater eel) ▶ Best Unagi Restaurants in Tokyo

Other than restaurants specializing in particular dishes, an amazing way to explore the authentic food culture is by visiting Izakaya (Japanese style gastropub) that usually serve delicious food and snacks that go perfectly with drink.

Also, Tokyo is home to a wide range of international cuisine restaurants, serving the finest quality dishes such as Indian curry , Spanish food , Italian pizza and  American style gourmet burgers .

16. With Harajuku

The renovation of the long-established wooden Harajuku Station was completed in March, which was transformed into a modern-looking building. After three months of the rebuilding, a new entertainment complex named With Harajuku (ウィズ原宿) opened in front of the cutting-edge Harajuku Station.

It provides dining and shopping options with 14 shops and restaurants and also features a convention hall With Harajuku Hall and a sharing space Lifork on the third floor and With Harajuku Residence in the upper part of the building. The shopping and dining floors include popular brands such as Uniqlo, Ikea, Snow Peak, Dr.Martens, Seiko Boutique and so on. Of course, you can enjoy walking around the popular tourist area Harajuku stopping by trendy food stalls and clothing stores.

More info ▶︎ Best Things to Do in Harajuku

17. Tokyo Mizumachi

At the bottom of the modern Tokyo’s symbol Tokyo Skytree, a large shopping complex Tokyo Solamachi was established in 2012. In June, 2020, a newer commercial facility named Tokyo Mizumachi (東京ミズマチ) opened with its concept “Live to Trip”.

Tokyo Mizumachi is composed of a dozen of trendy restaurants and other facilities including a cool hostel and a bouldering gym. It is a perfect spot for both tourists and long-term stayers in Tokyo, located underneath the elevated railway tracks between Asakusa Station, the center of the traditional town, and Tokyo Skytree Station.

18. Character Cafes

Character cafes have been a huge trend in Japan in recent years as numbers of collaborated cafes offering unique and photo-worthy themed dishes, drinks and limited merchandise.

There are numbers of “temporary” character cafes opening across Japan only for a limited time through the year in order to celebrate the related events such as releasing of new films, games, anniversary and so on. On the other hand, there are also “permanent” character cafes where you can visit anytime you like. From Pokemon Cafe to Sanrion character’s cafe, there are various character cafes available in Tokyo today!

More info ▶ Best Character Cafes in Tokyo

19. Toyosu Market

After relocating its location from the famous Tsukiji, the world largest fish market is now situated in Toyosu. At the market, you can find all kinds of food products, not only fish but also vegetables, fruits, meat. There are also shops with cooking utensils and a wide variety of restaurants. The top attraction of Tsukiji Market, tuna auction now takes place in Toyosu Market in early morning, too. The new ground of Tokyo’s largest fish market is also home to Tokyo’s hottest tourist attraction, teamLab Planet, the body immersive digital art museum.

Although the iconic wholesale market is now in Toyosu, Tsukiji is still very attractive place to visit for tourists as numbers of shops and restaurants remain there. If you want to explore the great food culture of Tokyo, we’d highly recommend you to visit both Tsukiji and Toyosu.

▶ Toyosu Market: World’s Largest Fish Market ▶ Guide to Tsukiji Fish Market

20. Daikanyama

Daikanyama is a neighbourhood in Tokyo that is often described as the Brooklyn of Tokyo as it’s home to numbers of stylish cafes, restaurants, trendy boutiques and shops. It’s a great place to stop for branch and hunt for chic and trendy designer clothes.

Although it’s located right next to busy neighbourhoods like Shibuya, Ebisu and Nakameguro, Daikanyama has much more chilled and relaxed atmosphere with less crowds.

Daikanyama T-SITE is the popular landmark in Daikanyama area, which is a complex buildings consist of multiple facilities such as bookstore, cafe, restaurants, etc. The large book store “Tsutaya” offers a huge selection of books, CDs and DVDs, and the cafe lounge inside the book store where guests can read books with coffee. There is also a Starbucks store next door which has a pleasant terrace seats surrounded by nature.

More info ▶ Best Things to Do in Daikanyama

▽Check out the best places to visit in other popular areas in Japan!▽

Have you enjoyed my list?? If you have been to most of major tourist sites in Tokyo such as Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, Asakusa, etc, there are more places to explore and listed spots are highly recommended for experienced travellers to Tokyo! For more info about trendy new spots in Japan, please check out these articles, too!

▶︎ 30 Best Things to Do in Tokyo ▶︎ 30 Best Things to Do in Japan ▶︎ 10 Best Activities in Tokyo

▽Related Articles▽

▶︎ 10 Hottest Places to Visit in Japan ▶︎ 10 Best Spots to Photograph in Tokyo for First-Time Visitors! ▶︎ 5 Best Walking Tours in Tokyo

▼Editor’s Picks▼

▶︎ Best Strawberry Buffets in Tokyo ▶︎ Must-Visit Museums in Tokyo ▶︎ Best Day Trips from Tokyo

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

• Things to Do

• Work with Me
• Start a Blog
• Yearly Roundups
• 101 in 1001 Goals
• how to start a travel blog
• tips for new bloggers
• write me a guest post!
• Work With Me

A Passion and A Passport

Proving Travel is Possible with a Full-Time 9-5

3 Days in Tokyo: The Perfect Tokyo Itinerary

last Updated: November 29, 2023 japan tokyo

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Japan and looking to fill your time with 3 days in Tokyo?! You’re in luck, my matcha-loving, sushi-searching friend. This Tokyo itinerary has got exactly what you need to help plan your trip!

Tokyo is a sprawling city that connects modernity with deep Japanese tradition, which shines through in its rich history, fascinating attractions, and cosmopolitan neighborhoods. From its mouth-watering food to its beautiful architecture and parks, the Japanese capital city truly has something for any kind of traveler.

I spent a perfect 10 days in Japan last cherry blossom season ( full itinerary here ), and we’re hoping to head back to Tokyo for an extended long weekend this year! Basically to eat everything and then some, but we don’t need to talk about my indulgent, over-the-top food habits (like traveling 15 hours via air for some vending machine ramen).

As an international flight hub for several airlines, Tokyo is the perfect place to visit en route to another destination, or simply on its own! If you’ve got 3 days in Tokyo to explore, you can see most of the city’s highlights. Buckle up for this detailed itinerary which will explain what to do in Tokyo in 3 days, with all the details you need to know to plan your trip there.

Note : This Tokyo itinerary is jam-packed with activities for the ultra-adventurous traveler. However, if you’re looking for a more laid-back schedule (no judgment here!), don’t feel like you need to do everything I’ve listed. Use this detailed Tokyo travel blog as a foundation, then prioritize the activities that sound most interesting to you!

Read Next: COMPLETE 10 Day Japan Itinerary (Perfect for first-timers to the country)

Pre-Travel Guide to Tokyo

When to visit tokyo.

Tokyo is truly a year-round destination – each season boasts something different and exciting for visitors to the city. However, not all seasons are created equal. Winters in Tokyo can be dark and cold, while summers are sweltering hot and humid. Spring and autumn are often very mild and temperate, with the best weather occurring between March and May, and then again from October to December.

Personally, I’d recommend traveling to Tokyo during these months for the mild weather, perfect for wandering around on foot and experiencing the city’s open-air attractions.

If you’re flexible on dates, one of the most beautiful times of year to visit Tokyo is during the annual blooming of the cherry blossoms. During the early spring, the cherry trees light up many areas of the city in white and pink blooms, and it’s truly a spectacle! While the city is often more crowded with tourists during this time of year, the cherry blossoms are certainly a once-in-a-lifetime thing to see. You can check predictions for the peak cherry blossom seasons this year here .

If you’d prefer to visit in the end of the year, you can opt to time your visit with the fall foliage, during which the city’s trees turn bright red, orange, and yellow.

Read Next: When to Visit Japan (Month by Month)

How to Get Around Tokyo

One thing to know about traveling in Tokyo is that taxis can be extremely expensive. We’re talking about potentially hundreds of dollars to get across the city. Uber operates in Tokyo as well, but it’s often just as expensive (if not more) as the taxis. Taxis are typically a safe transportation option for tourists, but the costs can add up super quickly and you usually need to pay in cash.

Luckily for budget travelers, Tokyo has a world-renowned public transportation system that’s easy to use even as a tourist. On the metro, you can pay by the ride (typically 170 to 310 JPY each way) or buy an unlimited multi-day pass (600 yen per day – recommended if you’ll be using the metro to get around).

In general, the metro maps have English translations and each stop is announced on the metro’s speakers in both Japanese and English. From both Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) airports, you can take a direct airport train into the city center for a much more reasonable price than the taxis.

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Finding accommodation in Tokyo can be a little challenging. The good news? Accommodation is easy to find, as there are tons of choices. The bad news? Hotels are typically small, sometimes cramped, and relatively expensive, especially if you wait until the last minute to book.

Tokyo is a massive city, so it’s important to choose your location carefully. No matter where you choose to stay, be sure to book a place that’s within walking distance to a central train station so you can easily and affordably get around from place to place.

There are three centrally-located neighborhoods I’d recommend staying in: Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ginza.

Where to Stay in Shibuya:

Shibuya is a metropolitan area home to the always-crowded “Times Square” of Tokyo, Shibuya Crossing (more on this later). Here, you’ll find suit-clad businesspeople, selfie-taking tourists, and hurried locals in a hodgepodge of energy, lights, and modern buildings.

• Splurge : Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu
• Budget : Mustard Hotel Shibuya
• Hostel : Turn Table Hostel

Where to Stay in Shinjuku:

Shinjuku is another lively neighborhood, home to incredible green spaces and hole-in-the-wall eats and nightlife. You can find alleys full of lanterns and tiny bars, or wander through the giant Gyoen Garden.

• Splurge : Keio Plaza Hotel Premier Grand
• Budget : The Knot Tokyo Shinjuku
• Hostel : Nine Hours Shinjuku – North

Where to Stay in Ginza:

And, for the shoppers out there, Ginza boasts some of the city’s best boutiques and shopping malls. On weekends, Ginza’s streets are closed to cars for the perfect walking wonderland.

• Splurge : Millennium Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza
• Budget : The Square Hotel Ginza
• Hostel : Bed & Breakfast Renga

Language and Currency in Tokyo

While Japanese people are generally very polite and helpful, few people speak English fluently. It’s much easier to find assistance via English speakers in more frequently touristed areas or in your hotel. However, as with any foreign country, I recommend learning a few words  in Japanese before you arrive.

USEFUL JAPANESE PHRASES:

• Hello/Good Afternoon:  konnichiwa
• Good bye:  sayonara
• Delicious:  oishi
• Thank you:  arigatō
• Please:  kudasai
• Where’s the toilet:  benjo wa doko desu ka?
• Does anyone speak English?  Eigo no hanaseru hito wa imasen ka

The currency in Tokyo is the Japanese Yen (JPY). You can either exchange money at designated exchange kiosks around the city, or take money directly from a bank ATM (there are several scattered around most Tokyo neighborhoods). I prefer to use an ATM whenever possible as they typically provide better exchange rates.

I was super surprised, but I found Japan to be mostly a cash society, so expect your credit card to get rejected at some places and be sure to carry enough Yen with you. If you’re coming from the US, an easy way to figure out USD to JPY is to move the decimal point two spots to the right >> 100Y = approximately $1USD. Just for quick reference, 10,000Y = approx 100USD.

And finally, what you originally came here for, a super detailed 3 day Japan itinerary! Get planning, my friends!

3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

Day 1: west side (modern tokyo).

Between shiny buildings and busy streets, the first day of your Tokyo itinerary will take you to some of the more modern, cosmopolitan areas of the city: Shibuya, Harajuku, and Shinjuku. If you’re planning on spending more than 3 days in Tokyo, you can split this up into a couple of days for a more relaxed schedule!

Morning: Shibuya

Start the morning off in Shibuya, which you can easily access by metro. With its tall, shiny buildings, Shibuya is a major business hub in Tokyo, home to some of the city’s major corporations. It’s also a fantastic place to get a feel for the modern, rapidly expanding cosmopolitan side of the city, whether at the bustling Shibuya Station or overlooking the crowds in Shibuya Crossing.

• Shibuya Crossing: Head to Shibuya Crossing (especially during rush hour), which is known as the “Times Square” of Tokyo, to watch the city’s busiest intersection come to life. Amidst flashing LED signs and huge billboard ads, you can see several pedestrian lanes of people crossing at the exact same time. Join in on the fun on the streets, or head to Starbucks for your morning cup of joe and a bird’s eye view of the chaotic pedestrian crossing.
• Hachiko Statue: Shibuya’s Hachiko Statue might melt your heart, especially if you’re an animal lover. This statue was built to remember the incredibly faithful Akita dog who waited every day at the Shibuya train station for his owner. Even after the owner’s death, Hachiko continued to show up every day for years without fail at the station! Now, at the Shibuya Station, you can see a statue of Hachiko that was built as a tribute to his unconditional loyalty.
• Tokyu Hands: If you’re looking for a place to stop and shop for some souvenirs, Tokyu Hands is a giant department store in Shibuya where you can find some of Japan’s best and most unique items. They focus on handmade items and crafts, and you can find a lot of things here in that same creative vein.

Afternoon: Harajuku

When I think of Harajuku, there’s really only one word that comes to mind: stylish. Here, you can spot some of the city’s most unique and colorful fashions, amidst a sea of boutique shops and cute cafes. Harajuku is also located right next to the Meiji Shrine and surrounding park, which is a beautiful area to disconnect from the noise and haste of the city (you’ll need it after spending the morning in Shibuya!).

• Meiji Shrine: Located next to Harajuku’s metro station, the Meiji Shrine and surrounding Yoyogi Park are a peaceful respite from the otherwise lively areas of Tokyo you’ll visit today. The shrine was dedicated to Emperor Meiji in 1920, and was rebuilt after being destroyed during WWII. Today, visitors can enter the shrine area and learn about its traditions and history, including the hand washing station and the wishing tablets, also known as ema.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by J (@jermstravels) on Jan 24, 2019 at 4:06pm PST

• Omotesando and Takeshita Dori shopping streets: Harajuku’s fashions and designs aren’t exclusively for locals; you can actually buy a lot of these colorful, crazy items you see in this neighborhood to take home with you. Head to Omotesando and Takeshita Dori shopping streets to window-shop and browse some of the local boutiques…or simply people-watch the ultra-chic, colorfully-dressed locals that seem to frequent the area.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by ? ? ? ? ? ? ♀ (@goldiegrace) on Jan 16, 2019 at 4:05am PST

• Try some street food: Despite being home to some beautiful (and expensive) boutiques, there’s actually plenty of great street food in the Harajuku area to try. One of my favorites was the crepes, which you can find in street kiosks lining the main walking street. However, if you’d fancy something else, there are several other kiosks selling both savory and sweet treats.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Charlotte Foodies ? (@foodie_muse) on Jun 3, 2017 at 3:18pm PDT

• Harry’s Hedgehog Café: Yes, you read that right: this is a real cafe where you can actually play with tiny hedgehogs. The cute animal lover in me is grinning just writing this (*cue squeal*). For a small fee, you can put on a pair of thick gloves and hold/play with these miniature hedgehogs. The cafe staff stands by at each table to ensure the well-being and safety of the hedgehogs during your visit.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by ?Shelly Jimenez (@shellyjimenez) on Nov 28, 2018 at 12:58am PST

• Kawaii Monster Cafe: In Japanese, the word kawaii means “cute” or “adorable” and that’s definitely the gist of this trippy, colorful Harajuku-based cafe. Filled with psychedelic decorations and some out-of-this world color schemes, the Kawaii Monster Cafe is a super Instagrammable place that’s full of visual stimulation. There’s definitely no shortage of wackiness (or strangeness) here! To enter, there’s a 500 JPY entrance fee and each person is required to order at least one entree and a drink, but it’s generally reasonably priced.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by KAWAII MONSTER CAFE (@kawaiimonstercafe) on Jan 22, 2019 at 11:07pm PST

• Observe the costumes: While wandering around Harajuku, keep an eye out for traditional Harajuku Girls dressed in their elaborate costumes and anime, especially if one of your 3 days in Tokyo happens to be a Sunday.

Evening: Shinjuku

After leaving colorful Harajuku, you might find Shinjuku to be a welcome change to your Tokyo itinerary for the evening. This nearby neighborhood is equally modern and traditional. One minute, you’re surrounded by tall buildings and the next, you’re ducking through tiny food stalls in a narrow, lantern-laden alleyway or breathing in fresh air at a traditional Japanese garden.

• Shinjuku Gyoen Garden: As one of the largest green spaces in the city of Tokyo, you can’t miss Gyoen Garden, especially if you love the outdoors. This massive park is home to several different kinds of Japanese gardens, with trails that connect different areas of the park. Additionally, it’s a gorgeous place to see Tokyo’s cherry blossoms in the springtime, or fall foliage towards the end of the year.
• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: Around sunset or at night, you can head to the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to see some of the most spectacular panoramic views of Tokyo. I loved going when the sun went down to see the sparkling city lights below. The best part is it’s totally free to go up there!
• Robot Restaurant: One of the most popular Shinjuku hotspots is the Robot Restaurant. Although it’s a wildly popular hyper-tacky tourist attraction, we chose not to go after reading tons of mixed reviews, but it’s up to you! Note that the food is something left to be desired, so you’ll wanna plan to eat before or after (and Piss Alley is a great choice).

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by robotrestaurant (@robotrestaurant) on Jan 14, 2019 at 3:09am PST

• Piss Alley (Omoide Yokocho): Despite its off-putting name, Piss Alley is one of the coolest places to visit in Shinjuku. A tiny, narrow alley lined with lanterns and full of people, Piss Alley is home to tiny bars, food stalls, and restaurants that serve up some of the best food in the area. Historically, it was a hidden street for drinking and other illicit activities, and is still a symbol of some of the older traditions of the city.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Joyce ? Vancouver (@juicybb) on Jan 21, 2019 at 7:32pm PST

Day 2: East Side (Traditional Tokyo)

On the second day of your 3 days in Tokyo, you’ll head to some of the city’s historic areas, exploring traditional shrines and temples, wandering through some of the city’s older neighborhoods, and ending the day in one of the strangest and coolest parts of town.

Morning: Asakusa

As one of Tokyo’s most well-preserved old neighborhoods, Asakusa is a place to see the charms of “old Tokyo” and experience a very different vibe than the urban shuffle in Shibuya and Shinjuku. There are several old temples and streets with market stalls in the Asakusa area, waiting to be explored by the adventurous tourist.

• Sensoji Temple: The Sensoji Temple is Tokyo’s oldest temple and one of the most iconic. Its entryway is marked by a signature large red lantern. With its beautiful red frame and green rooftops, it’s worth taking some time in the morning to explore the grounds and the temple itself. Get up early and head to Asakusa to avoid the large crowds that gather here during the day.
• Nakamise Dori Street: Just outside of the Sensoji Temple lies one of Tokyo’s most historically significant shopping streets. Here, you can find all kinds of Japanese goods and homewares, as well as many souvenir shops. Take some time to walk through this street during your visit to Asakusa to people-watch and see some of the beautiful handicrafts from Tokyo locals.

During Cherry Blossom Season: Sumida Park

Like I’ve mentioned earlier in this Tokyo travel blog post, spring is the most amazing time to come to Tokyo. Located near the Asakusa train station is Sumida Park, one of the best and most beautiful parks in Tokyo to see the cherry blossoms in the springtime. There are over 700 cherry trees in this riverside park! If you’re lucky enough to be in Tokyo during the full bloom, head to Sumida Park while you’re in the Asakusa area.

Afternoon: Ueno

Another traditional Tokyo neighborhood, Ueno is most well-known for its shrines, gardens, and museums. You can spend the afternoon in this part of the city, strolling through the streets or trails and learning more about Tokyo’s fascinating history.

• Ueno Park/Gardens: Ueno Park is a large metropolitan park in the Ueno area, which is home to lovely walking trails and over 1,000 cherry blossom trees that bloom in the springtime. It’s also a popular place for locals to hang out. There are also a handful of shrines and temples in the park that you can check out while you’re there.
• Tokyo National Museum: Within Ueno Park, there are several museums and a zoo. You could spend an entire day exploring them all, but if I had to pick just one, I’d recommend going to the Tokyo National Museum. Packed full of interesting information, the Tokyo National Museum is a collection of important historical and traditional Japanese items that span the country’s history. Entrance is 620 JPY.

Evening: Akihabara District

In the late afternoon, head to the Akihabara District, which became famous in Tokyo for its focus on anime and manga culture and its several electronics/gaming shops. There are literally streets and streets of electronics shops in this part of town, which provides a fascinating backdrop for this very unique corner of Tokyo.

• Electric Town: Like I mentioned earlier, Akihabara District started off as a center for electronics sales. Dozens and dozens of tiny electronics shops sprang up in groups, many of which are still in business today. In addition to the tiny electronics stores, you can also visit Yodobashi Akiba, a gigantic electronics department store in the neighborhood that sells everything from cameras to computers to sound equipment and more.
• Game Centers: There’s literally an entire pocket of the Akihabara District that’s completely dedicated to game centers, or arcades. There are dozens you can visit and play games in, but my favorite is Super Potato Retro Shop, which has a bunch of throwback retro games you can play in a cozy environment on the 5th floor.
• Maid and Gundam Cafes: One of the strangest things you can experience in Akihabara is the Maid and/or Gundam Cafes. Exactly as they sound, these are small restaurants where the waiters/waitresses dress up as maids and butlers and cater to your every wish, including but not limited to playing games, taking Instagram selfies, and serving too-cute drinks and desserts.

Day 3: Sushi Breakfast and Shopping

You really can’t have a 3 day Tokyo itinerary without a day of food and shopping, right?! Well, this is that day. I’ve included a bunch of different options for you on this third day of your Tokyo itinerary, so you can choose what you want to do based on what you want to buy, eat, or see!

Early Morning: Toyosu Fish Market

I’m sure you’ve heard about the ever-so-popular and quite famous Tsukiji Market. However, in late 2018, the famous Tokyo establishment, the Tsukiji Fish Market, shut its doors for the last and final time. The market itself moved to a different location, now titled the Toyosu Fish Market, but don’t you worry – it’s open for visitors!

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by TK (@otorochutoro) on Dec 6, 2018 at 11:29pm PST

At this new location, you can still find some of the freshest sushi around, and a daily 4:30 AM tuna auction (if you’re willing to get up that early). I recommend heading over in the early morning (around 4 for the tuna auction, or later if you just want to walk around and explore/eat). Grab some sushi at the Toyosu Fish Market for breakfast, as that’s the time of day when it’s the freshest.

Morning: teamLab Borderless Art Museum and Ginza

• teamLab Borderless Art Museum: Of all the places on this Tokyo itinerary, I think this art museum might be one of the most fascinating. A digital art museum, the teamLab Borderless Art Museum is an interactive and immersive art experience that has the visitor moving through different rooms of color, light, psychedelic patterns, and moving projected images. It’s a really unique art experience, and I’d recommend it even if you’re the type of person who won’t go near an art museum.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by I am a day and night dreamer (@sn00pyee) on Jan 24, 2019 at 4:06pm PST

• Shopping in Ginza: After the teamLab experience, head to Ginza for some shopping (or window-shopping, if you’re on a budget). Two of the must-see shopping streets in the Ginza area include Chuo-dori Street and Harumi-Dori. If you’re in Ginza, you can’t miss these streets; they are lined with shops and cafes and eventually intersect. While in Ginza, don’t forget to check out the Kabukiza Theatre, which has regular Japanese fine arts performances and is just a really beautiful building in general.

Afternoon: Imperial Palace and East Garden

The Imperial Palace and its surrounding greenery are an important part of Tokyo’s history and culture, and are definitely worth a visit during your 3 days in Tokyo. The castle on the grounds was originally the Edo Castle, but after changing hands many times, was ultimately destroyed. In its place lies part of the original foundation in the East Garden.

Late Afternoon/Evening: Roppongi

An ultra-modern area for shopping nightlife, the upscale neighborhood of Roppongi is home to several buildings and attractions that are best visited in the late afternoon or evening, so you can appreciate the modern, well-lit complexes and designs of this dazzling place.

• Roppongi Hills: This is a sizeable and famous high rise development complex situated in the middle of the neighborhood. It’s like a miniature city within a city, with its own skyline, eating areas, and more.
• Mori Art Museum: Housed in a modern glass building, the Mori Art Museum is home to lots of contemporary art in a variety of genres and mediums. In my opinion, it’s worth it to visit the museum for the building alone!
• Tokyo Midtown Complex: The Tokyo Midtown Complex is a huge, high-end shopping and dining complex with tons of areas to walk around, shop, and grab dinner.
• Mori Tower: If you didn’t get a chance to go to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building on day 1 (or you just love city views!), you can see another fabulous bird’s eye view of Tokyo from the 52nd floor or the rooftop Sky Deck of the Mori Tower. The views from up here are best at night, when the city begins to light up.

EXTRA! Day 4: Take a Day Trip

Okay, okay, I know this was supposed to be a 3 day Tokyo itinerary, but the reality is that it would be a total shame if you didn’t take the time to explore the surrounding areas of Tokyo if you have a bit more time in the city.

While this guide tells you what to do in Tokyo in 3 days, I felt that it was important to add an option for those of you wanting to see a little bit more of Japan during your time here. So, if you do find yourself with 4 days in Tokyo (or a little bit of extra time in your schedule) you can take one (or more!) of these nearby day trips.

Read Next: Top Day Trips from Tokyo

• Distance from Tokyo: 42.6 miles/68.5 km
• Main things to do: Temples (Hokokuji, Hasedera, others), Great Buddha, Hachimangu Shrine, hiking

Kamakura is a Japanese town that boasts stunning examples of traditional architecture in its religious sites, including several temples and shrines. Historically, it was the origin of Japan’s samurai government and an important cultural hub for the country’s development.

In addition to well-maintained historic sites, it’s also home to stunning nature areas that you can visit and enjoy, even if you’re only visiting Kamakura for the day.

By far, the most hassle-free way to take a day trip to Kamakura is by organized tour, especially if you only have 4 days in Tokyo and don’t want to be stuck in your hotel trip planning. You can book a day-long trip to Kamakura like this one that includes transportation and a local guide (which is awesome given the town’s incredible historical sites).

However, if you want to DIY your day trip, the easiest way to get to Kamakura from Tokyo is by train. The easy-to-use JR trains connect both the Tokyo Station and the Shinjuku Station to Kamakura directly. If you’re going by train, the trip takes about 1.5-2 hours one way and costs 920 JPY.

Once in town, head to the Giant Buddha (or Kamakura Daibutsu (Kōtoku-in) ), one of Kamakura’s most famous landmarks. Then, explore a few of the city’s temples, like the Hokokuji or Hasedera temples , which are beautiful examples of traditional Japanese temples. You can also visit the Hachimangu Shrine , which is the most culturally and historically important Shinto shrine in all of Kamakura. If you’re interested in getting some fresh air, hit some of the nearby hiking/walking trails into the outskirts of the town.

It’s best to visit Kamakura during the spring and fall, as the weather will be mildest during these months and you’ll be spending a lot of time outside.

• Distance from Tokyo: 92.5 miles/148.9 km
• Main things to do: Shinkyo Bridge, Three Buddha Hall, Five-Story Pagoda, shrines, landscapes & scenery

Located in the mountains about 2.5 hours from Tokyo by train, Nikko is an 8th century Japanese town with several picturesque, forested shrines and temples. With its perfect location right near Lake Chuzenji, you can get a taste of history and culture as well as beautiful landscapes and outdoor exposure.

Again, as Nikko is a decent distance (almost 100 miles) from Tokyo, it’s easiest to book a guided day tour to minimize the hassle of figuring out the transportation and activities for the day. Day tours like this one offer a really great value, and they organize everything for you. However, if you’d rather plan your own independent day trip, you can get to Nikko by train from Tokyo.

While in Nikko, you have to visit some of the many shrines and temples in the area. Three Buddha Hall and the Five-Story Pagoda are two especially photogenic ones, but there are several shrines dotted throughout the city – many of which are surrounded by wooded areas – that you can visit. Additionally, don’t miss the incredibly beautiful Shinkyo Bridge .

When you finally feel like you’ve seen enough of the local shrines and temples, you can also explore the nearby Lake Chuzenji or Kanmangafuchi , where the 70 mysterious Jizo statues are located. There’s a legend that the number of statues changes every time you count them…but you’ll just have to visit for yourself to find out if it’s true.

It’s best to visit Nikko during the fall, where the foliage colors consume the greenery of the forest and turn the entire town and surrounding area bring yellow, orange, and red.

• Distance from Tokyo: 57.2 miles/92.1 km
• Main things to do: Views of Mount Fuji over Lake Ashinoko, Hakone Onsen, Hakone Shrine, Owakudani Crater

Located just over an hour from Tokyo, Hakone is one of the most visually beautiful day trips from Tokyo, boasting stunning views of Mount Fuji amidst forested shrines and landmarks. A short train ride from Tokyo’s city center, Hakone is a perfect day trip you can go on to get a bit more peace and quiet; I’d recommend this one if you love the outdoors and you only have 4 days in Tokyo.

There are several day tours from Tokyo that you can book (like this  one or this one ) which will organize your transportation and logistics for a day trip to Hakone. With limited time in Tokyo, it’s easiest just to book a tour. However, you can also hop on a train from Tokyo and explore Hakone on your own (but since I found the trains to be somewhat confusing with local and direct trains and had difficulty figuring out which was which, I’d just take a tour if I were you.)

In Hakone, you’ll have the chance to visit a lot of quiet, secluded shrines and even a relaxing traditional Japanese bath! First, on clear days, you can head to Lake Ashinoko to see amazing views of the conical Mount Fuji, which in the colder months is capped with snow. You can take a boat ride around the lake or just take in the sights from the shore.

After that, visit the Hakone Shrine , a forested shrine with bold red structures. Afterward, you can take a cable car over Owakudani Crater , a crater formed by the last volcanic eruption in the area where they make miracle eggs that are said to add 7 years to your life! You can end your day at the Hakone Onsen , a traditional Japanese bath house with warm water to relax your body and round out your trip with a uniquely Japanese onsen experience.

So there you have it, a complete and packed 3 day Tokyo itinerary! As I mentioned earlier, if you want a more relaxing experience, pick and choose a few activities for each day instead of cramming it all in and rushing from place to place (like me).

Other Japan articles you may like:

Best Time to Visit Japan

Japan Bucket List: Where to Visit

Complete 10 Day Japan Itinerary

Tokyo Bucket List and Itinerary Inspiration

Day Trips from Tokyo

25+ Things to do in Kyoto

Day Trips from Kyoto

Things to do in Harajuku

When are you planning to visit Japan and how will you be spending your 3 days in Tokyo?!

Images via Nikko 1 / 2

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.

You may also love...

Subscribe To The Newsletter

FOR TRAVEL INSPO   and   FUN

No spam, only fun!

Favorite Destinations

• About Jessica
• How to Plan a Trip
• Fave Travel Companies
• Shop My Faves

Destinations

• World Travel
• San Francisco
• Northern California
• Southern California
• Central Coast

The Travel Sisters

3 days in tokyo: the perfect itinerary for first time visitors.

by The Travel Sisters | Mar 2, 2018 | Destinations | 10 comments

3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary for First Time Visitors

Our 3 day Tokyo itinerary covers the must sees in Tokyo in the first two days, so if you are only in Tokyo for 2 days just follow the itinerary for Day 1 and 2.

Tsukiji Fish Market

If your body is on a different time zone, your first day in Tokyo might be the best day for an early morning visit to the Tsukiji Fish Market , the biggest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world.  Make sure to catch the tuna auction – spots are limited so you need to arrive at 3:00 am in the morning! After watching the tuna auction, make sure to enjoy some fresh sushi for breakfast. If you want to guarantee catching the tuna auction it might be easier to sign up for a tour here .

Visit the famous Sensōji (or Asakusa Kannon Temple) in Asakusa. Although the temple and surrounding area is very busy and packed with tourists, it is still a Tokyo must see.

The walk to Sensōji, Nakamise Dori, is lined with small shops selling various souvenirs. This is a good spot to knock out your souvenir shopping.

Spend a few hours in Akihabara, a district in Tokyo famous for its many electronics shops. One of the popular things to do in Akihabara is to visit a maid cafe .

Meiji Shrine/ Omotesando/ Yoyogi Park/Harajuku

If you enjoy window shopping take a walk on  Omotesando  which is a broad, tree-lined street that houses various top designer boutiques.  As Omotesando comes to an end you will reach  Yoyogi Park , a great spot for people watching. The best day for people watching is Sunday so you might want to do this on Day 1 or Day 3 if you are in Tokyo on a Sunday.

Also nearby is the famous  Harajuku  neighborhood. The main action is at Takeshita Dori, which is a short pedestrian walkway.  Here you will see shops selling clothes for teens, and lots of Japanese youth and girls wearing Harajuku style.

Make sure to also visit the  Meiji Shrine  which is located right next to the Harajuku station.

Shibuya Crossing

Tokyo can be hectic so visiting a park is a nice way to spend a couple of hours during your time in Tokyo. One of the most beautiful parks in Tokyo is  Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden  which consists of three different types of gardens: traditional Japanese, formal French and an English garden.  Home to a large number of cherry trees, it is a popular but also peaceful spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) during the spring cherry blossom season .

Now that you have seen the major sites in Tokyo, you can have some fun and do some of the unique things to do that Tokyo is known for.

Watch a Sumo Wrestling Tournament or Sumo Practice 

Sumo is Japan’s national sport.  Attending a sumo grand tournament  is a fun and cultural experience we would recommend to anyone visiting Japan during the tournament.

The sumo tournament runs in Tokyo for 15 days at a time during January, May and September (exact dates vary each year).  If you visit Tokyo outside of these dates, consider visiting a sumo stable to watch a sumo wrestling practice .

(If you are interested in attending a sumo wrestling match, check out our  Tips for Watching Sumo Wrestling in Japan  for the schedule, advice on finding tickets, choosing seats and other information that we think is helpful.)

Have a drink or meal at a themed café or restaurant

Tokyo is full of some interesting cafes from various animal cafes (cat cafes, dog cafes, owl cafes ,  rabbit cafes  and a hedgehog cafe ) to maid cafes and even a robot restaurant . Read about our  visit to a bunny cafe here .

Tips for Visiting Tokyo

• Most Japanese ATMS don’t work with foreign ATM cards. To find ATMs that work head to the nearest 7-11.

•Not sure when is the best time to visit Tokyo? While Tokyo is great city all year, the weather is most pleasant plus the city is the most beautiful in the spring and fall. To help you decide before you book your trip see related post: The Best Time to Visit Tokyo .

Getting to and Around Tokyo

• The best way to get around Tokyo is by the efficient and comprehensive metro system . If you plan to take the subway more than a couple of times, you might want to purchase a PASMO card . PASMO is a prepaid reloadable smart card that you can use for trains and buses without having to calculate and pay a separate fare each trip. You can purchase a PASMO card at airports or train stations.

• If you want to avoid figuring out how to get around you can also sign up for a  Tokyo Hop-On Hop-Off Tour .

• The easiest way to get from the airport to your hotel is the Airport Limousine bus which drops you off right at your hotel door. The Limousine bus does not stop at all Tokyo hotels so check the website for more information.

• If you have too much luggage to take public transportation or the Airport Limousine does not stop by your hotel you can reserve a shared airport shuttle from Narita here and from Haneda here .

Where to Stay in Tokyo

It can be overwhelming deciding where to stay in Tokyo as there are so many hotels and neighborhoods.  These are our top choices for every budget:

Grand Hyatt Hotel.  This is a great hotel in Tokyo for those looking for a luxury experience or have hotel points to use. The Grand Hyatt Hotel has a great location and gets great reviews on tripadvisor.   Click here to see the latest prices or read Tripadvisor reviews .

Park Hyatt Tokyo.  This luxury hotel in Shinjuku is the hotel in the travel movie , Lost in Translation. Click here to see the latest prices or read Tripadvisor reviews .

Akasaka Excel Hotel Tokyu.   This midprice hotel is where we usually stay in Tokyo. The location is super convenient -it is in the same building as a 7-11 and several restaurants and it is also across the street from the Akasaka-Mitsuke subway station with underground access to five different lines. Click here to see the latest prices or read our full review .

The Prince Park Tower Tokyo.   This midprice hotel get good reviews.  It has a great location and also offers a free shuttle to the closest train station. Click here to see the latest prices or read Tripadvisor reviews .

Richmond hotel Asakusa.   This small modern hotel is located in a great location in Asakusa walking distance to the famous Sensōji Temple. Click here to see the latest prices or read Tripadvisor reviews .

Red Planet Asakusa.   This newly built hotel also has a great location in Asakusa and offers great views of the Tokyo Skyline and Sky Tree from some rooms. Click here to see the latest prices or read Tripadvisor reviews .

The Best Tokyo Tours

Here are a few different tours you can join to make the most of your time in Tokyo.

This bus tour  will take you to some of the places listed in my itinerary.

If you enjoy being active, you might enjoy this  4.5 hour bike tour .

Are you a foodie? This  street food tour  will let you taste the best of Japanese cuisine.

Hope you enjoyed our 3-day Tokyo itinerary . Have you been to Tokyo? If so, what would you do in three days?

10 Comments

Loved your 3 days in Tokyo itinerary. If you’re in Shinjuku, I’d add a stop at the micro-bars of Golden Gai after dark.

Haha, I think it’s great that you included cat cafe on your list! I would have loved to see a sumo match and the fish market. But for your next trip, I’d suggest a visit to one of the arcade’s for a round of Dance Dance Revolution and a trip to their fun photo booths! 🙂

I would love to visit Tokyo someday. This is a great itinerary, I would especially love to check out a cat cafe

I am always short of time when I travel. So, your list is just perfect for me. Sometimes, we want to do the best during the available time – and it is a perfect example of that

I thought 3 days in Tokyo wouldn’t be enough, but this guide definitely showed me that you can do a lot of things in those 3 days!

Great itinerary! Tokyo is such an epic city, but you break it down to a manageable itinerary. I’ll be keeping this in mind when I head there.

Love this guide to Toyko. It is such a great place to visit – but can be overwhelming for the first time visitor. I love the highlights you have chosen.

This brings me back! I was in Tokyo when I was 17 on a school trip. We flew in, crashed for a few hours, and then got up before dawn to go to the fish market. It was such a pain, but it did help us all kick the jet-lag!

What could be better than a ready-made travel itinerary! Thanks a lot, now I don’t have to worry about my leisure during my business trip. I’m travelling there in early May, and there must be some free time to fill in with some impressions. If I have enough time, I’d also go to Ashikaga Flower Park outside of Tokyo but not that far… It’s about wisteria tunnels, that must be just abloom during the time of my visit. Also, it would be great if I had time for Mount Fuji. Well, it’s some 150 km from Tokyo, but I hope I will make it. Mountains have always been my strong passion.

Thank you for this article! I’m heading to Tokyo soon for the first time and I’m still quite overwhelmed for what to do/where to go and this is very helpful.

Submit a Comment 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.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Recent posts.

• Chase Freedom Flex 2024 2nd Quarter 5% Bonus Categories
• Discover 5% Cashback Calendar 2024: Categories That Earn 5% Cash Back
• Chase Freedom Calendar 2024 Categories That Earn 5% Cash Back
• All Southwest Airlines International Flight Destinations
• Chase Freedom Flex 2024 2nd Quarter 5% Bonus Categories – Activate Now!

Follow us on Facebook

Pin It on Pinterest

Truly Tokyo

A Tokyo Travel Guide

Tokyo 3-Day Itinerary

Three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Tokyo. My three-day Tokyo itinerary is the best way to get the most out of your time in this incredible city.

Tokyo 3-Day Itinerary Summary

• Three days is the ideal amount of time for the traveler to stay in Tokyo.
• Base yourself somewhere central to save time.
• On Day 1, visit modern Tokyo on the west side.
• On Day 2, visit traditional Tokyo on the east side.
• On Day 3, visit the Imperial Palace Area and Shinjuku.

Check Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Tokyo 3-Day Itinerary Full Itinerary

Day 1: modern tokyo/west side.

• 8:30am: Take the train or subway to Harajuku. Depending upon where you stay, you'll probably take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station or the Chiyoda subway line to Meiji-Jingumae/Harajuku Station.
• 9:00am: Arrive in Harajuku and visit Meiji-jingu Shrine . After visiting the shrine, walk along Omotesando (the main avenue of Harajuku), checking out all the cool shops. Then, walk east all the way to the superb Nezu Museum and its fantastic garden (do not miss the garden!).
• 11:00am: Walk back to the intersection of Omotesando and Aoyama-dori and take the Ginza subway line west to Shibuya.
• 11:15am: Arrive in Shibuya, take the Hachiko exit and then walk across the famous Shibuya Crossing . Explore the big department stores and boutiques of Shibuya.
• 1:00pm: Eat lunch somewhere in Shibuya. All the department stores in Shibuya have huge restaurant floors. For more choices see the Shibuya district page Places to Eat section.
• 2.30pm: Take the Yamanote Line one stop south from Shibuya to Ebisu Station, then switch to the Hibiya Line subway and take that two stops east to Roppongi.
• 3:00pm: Arrive in Roppongi and visit the Roppongi Hills complex. Take the elevator up to the 52nd floor Tokyo City View observation deck of the Mori Tower to see the city.
• 6:00pm: Eat dinner in Roppongi. See the Roppongi Places to Eat section on the Roppongi district page for some of my picks.
• 8:00pm: If you still have any energy left, have a drink in one of Roppongi's many bars. See the Roppongi district Nightlife section for some recommendations.

Day 2: Traditional Tokyo/East Side

• 9:00am: Take the Ginza subway line up to Asakusa . Visit Senso-ji Temple and nearby Asakusa-jinja Shrine .
• 10:30am: Take the Ginza subway line three stops west to Ueno.
• 11:00am: Arrive in Ueno . Visit the wonderful Tokyo National Museum , Ueno-koen Park and Tosho-gu Shrine and then make your way back to the station.
• 1:00pm: Take the JR Yamanote Line south to Tokyo Station. Eat lunch in or around Tokyo Station. See the Tokyo Station Area Places to Eat section for my recommendations.
• 2:00: Check with the tourist information office in the basement of the Kitte Building to see what's on at the Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum or the Bridgestone Museum of Art. Consider a nice stroll in nearby Hibiya-koen Park afterward.
• 3:30pm: Return to your hotel for a nap and a shower.
• 6:00pm: Eat dinner in an area like Shinjuku , Ginza , Marunouchi or someplace close to your hotel. See the relevant district pages for recommendations.
• 8:00pm: If you've still got the energy, go out for a drink in a place like Roppongi , Shinjuku or Shibuya . See the relevant district pages for recommendations.

Day 3: Imperial Palace Area and Shinjuku

• 9:00am: Get yourself to Tokyo Station by train or subway. Walk east from Tokyo Station to the Imperial Palace East Garden . Visit the East Garden and exit via the Kitahanebashi-mon. For details on this area, see the Tokyo Imperial Palace Area page .
• 11:00am: Walk north through Kitanomaru-koen Park and then visit Yasukuni-jinja Shrine . Do not miss the controversial and interesting Yushukan Museum at the shrine. For details on this area, see the Tokyo Imperial Palace Area page .
• Noon: Take the Shinjuku Line subway west to Shinjuku. Eat lunch somewhere in Shinjuku. See the Shinjuku page for some suggested places to eat. You might want to hold off on eating lunch until 1:00pm to avoid the lunch rush.
• 1:00pm: First, go up to the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Offices to see the view of the city (and maybe even Mt Fuji) from the observation decks. Then, walk over to the East Side and check out the bustling shopping and entertainment district around the station. See the Shinjuku page for details on this area.
• 4:00pm: Return to your hotel for a rest and shower.
• 6:00pm: Eat dinner in the district of your choosing. Shinjuku , Shibuya , Ginza and Roppongi all have lots of great restaurants to choose from.
• 8:00pm: After dinner, head to Roppongi for a stroll and a drink or two. See the relevant district pages for some recommended bars.

Hints, Comments and Variations

• If you're only going to be in the city for three days, you should try to base yourself in a central location so you don't waste time moving around. I'd suggest Shinjuku , Shibuya , Ginza or the Tokyo Station area . For more on where to say, check out my Where to Stay in Tokyo page.
• On Day 2, another good option for the afternoon is the Edo-Tokyo Museum . It's easy to reach from Asakusa, Ueno or Tokyo Station.
• On Day 3, if it's very hot or you don't feel like walking much, cut out the Imperial Palace Area and head over to the Edo-Tokyo Museum (if you haven't already visited it).
• Don't try to do more than this with three days in Tokyo. If anything, cut out some of the destinations in this itinerary and slow down and relax! Tokyo is a huge city and it's tiring to move from place to place. Less is often more in a place like Tokyo.

Where Are These Places Located?

• Open the Tokyo map
• You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
• Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
• Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels / Ryokan / Guesthouses | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | GREEN: Shops | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
• If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.

Tokyo Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Tokyo guide
• Check Tokyo accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Tokyo
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Tokyo to Osaka and Tokyo to Hiroshima
• You can buy a Japan SIM card online for collection on arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda airports. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• Compare airline flight prices and timings for the best Japan flight deals . Check my guides to arriving at Narita Airport and at Haneda Airport .
• If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Suica card makes travelling around Tokyo much easier - here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Tokyo District Map

• Imperial Palace Area
• Tokyo Station
• Shimbashi Shiodome Hamamatsucho Shinagawa
• Akihabara Kanda
• Roppongi Akasaka
• Harajuku Aoyama
• Ebisu Daikanyama Meguro

Disclosure: trulytokyo.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Is Tokyo Worth Seeing? 14 Best and Worst Places to Visit in Tokyo and Lots of Opinions

Tokyo strikes me as a peculiar beast. Touted as the world's largest city, with travel guides devoting endless pages to its glory, I find it bafflingly underwhelming . Like… there’s nothing to do in Tokyo unless you fall into a quirky niche, like “obsessed with crowds” or “want-maids-to-wait-on-me weird”.

Unlike the serene politeness of Kyoto, Tokyo's hustle feels brash , its streets a far cry from the considerate Japan you’ll find just about everywhere else. Post-1945, it's a city reborn, yet, aside from the manga madness and pachinko games, it lacks the soul-stirring sights Japan is known for. If I were to journey through Japan again, Tokyo might not even make my list of places to see! It's the LA of Japan —overhyped, yet somehow a must-visit for the uninitiated.

Is Tokyo overrated? Yes! One of the top things to see in Tokyo is Godzilla on a rooftop , for Pete’s sake! But we all know you’re still going anyway out of fear of dying of FOMO . If Tokyo does call your name, I say indulge in its true highlight: karaoke , an unexpected joy (and the place I found my hidden talent), and then choose from my list of Tokyo sights based on your personal taste.

Godzilla tip: If you’re one of the people that’s more excited about Godzilla than I want to know about, book yourself into the Gracery Hotel Shinjuku . You can not only get a room with a Godzilla view, but he’ll also be waiting for you in the lobby. You’re welcome.

I’m going to show you around! @DisneySea  

In this article, I’ll describe 11 places to see in Tokyo and 3 to skip (yawn), including my personal experience with them so you can gage how you’d like them. I’ll add 3 day trips from Tokyo because, well, you’ll probably need them to fill your time “in” Tokyo.

Tip: Ready to ignore my advice on skipping Tokyo, stop with all this daydreaming and see it for yourself? I’ve put together a 3-day Tokyo itinerary for you so you can go get bored IRL! The last of the 3 days is spent either on a day trip outside of Tokyo or at DisneySea... Because Tokyo is overrated!              

Now let’s get crackin’ with this Tokyo guide!

What NOT to see in Tokyo (because it’s boring)

Right off the bat, don’t waste your time trying to figure out if you need to see these 3 places in Tokyo. I won’t even waste my (and your) time writing about them. Instead, I’ll just share my notes:

• Ginza , the skyscraper district: Yep, lots of skyscrapers.
• Takeshita Street , the pop culture mecca: At least they have the garbage cans ( read my Japan travel tips if you have no idea why there are no garbage cans anywhere in Japan).
• Roppongi , the entertainment district: Nothing, just some nice restaurants and clubs. A single small extra point for views of Tokyo Tower.

Best places to see in Tokyo (though some just barely made the list)

On the other hand, definitely take the time to see these places in Tokyo:

1. Ghibli Museum

Ghibli Museum gives the perfect anime vibes. Notice Totoro at the counter on the bottom left The highlight of my Tokyo trip was the Ghibli Museum, and I’m not an anime fan or anything. The Ghibli Museum is a must for die-hard anime fans and the curious alike, a dive into the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli. It's like stepping into a Miyazaki film —whimsical, unexpected, and utterly captivating.

Imagine every nook and cranny, from the stained-glass windows to the cute ticket, snipped from a real piece of Ghibli film history. I had to laugh at the human-size Totoro inside the ticket counter. I can’t lie, he looks a little creepy standing there with a straight face while everyone else is smiling ear to ear.

You’ll notice that the building and museum grounds themselves are colorful and cutesy , so you’ll be in anime mood the moment you approach from the outside. Once inside, it's a feast for the senses, with exhibits that bring to life the studio's iconic films.

The museum itself might not be sprawling, but the 3 floors and rooftop (with Laputa waiting for you up there) are packed with Ghibli awesomeness, and it’s interesting to see how Ghibli films are made. Sure, there might not be English translations , but who needs words when you're being spoken to in the universal language of wonder? Don’t miss the chance to see the museum-exclusive short film !

No photos are allowed inside.

There’s a better-than-expected café on site as well. You’ll need about 1.5 hours for your Ghibli Museum visit.

How to buy tickets to the Ghibli Museum

A heads up about tickets: getting one requires planning as they are quick to sell out and impossible to buy on the spot . Tickets are sold online for a specific date and time and are released for sale on the 10 th of each month for the following month. You’ll need to stand by with your credit card and fast clicking action if you want to have a good choice of time slots.

You can buy up to 6 tickets at once and you’ll need to present your ticket reservation email once you arrive at the Ghibli Museum. Say hi to Totoro for me!

Getting to the Ghibli Museum: train or car?

The Ghibli Museum is in Mitaka , which is to the west of Tokyo city center, easily accessible by train or car.

Train: To get to JR Mitaka Station , take the JR Chuo Line, which takes 20 minutes from JR Shinjuku Station. It's a 15-minute walk to the museum from the station’s south exit.

Car: If you’re driving from the centrally located Nohga Hotel Akihabara for example (which is where we stayed and can recommend it), it’s 22 km (14 miles) and depending on the time of day you go it may take up to an hour to get to the museum (there’s a parking lot available by the museum).

• Ghibli Museum official website
• Open daily 10 am–6 pm
• Tickets cost JPY 1000 for adults

2. Karaoke in Tokyo—the best activity in the city!

My girlfriend enjoyed Tokyo karaoke to the fullest. Especially when I was singing  

If you don’t sing karaoke in Tokyo, you haven’t been to Japan. It’s a completely crazy experience—imagine a 7-floor building where each floor is lined with one tiny karaoke room next to another and it is PACKED with people belting all the top hits you can think of. Hilariously, everyone is singing way worse that they think they are .

It’s simple : you go to the reception, ask for karaoke booth based on the number of people, usually by the half-hour or hour and paid per person, and you’ll be given a booth number to go to. Prices depend on the time you visit (weekends and evenings are more expensive), but lets say you should expect JPY 1000 per person per hour . It is standard (and sometimes mandatory) to order drinks and food , too. Those are paid separately when you are checking out. Some places even have costumes that you can borrow if you want to dress the part, or maybe for a confidence boost, or maybe to act out some weird fantasy , who knows. I was awesome even in my regular clothes, so...

Once you’re in your booth, it’s pretty easy to find your way around the tablet with song choices if you remember to switch it to English before you start and you’ll be singing “Flowers” in no time!

Needless to say, we had a blast, it was my top favorite activity in Toyko, hands down. And I found out I can rap! Like, I’m good, dude! Rock songs… not so much.

There are so many karaoke houses to try in Tokyo, each with a different style and theme, so you’ll have no trouble to find a spot when the urge to grab a mic hits. Some of the most popular karaoke chains are: KaraokeKan, Big Echo, Shidax, and Uta Hiroba.

3. Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree—the tallest tower in the world   

Towering over Tokyo, the Skytree isn't just tall; it's the tallest in the world! The tallest tower, that is, and one of the tallest structures, at 634 m (2,080 ft). This is the type of experience I’d expect from Tokyo —something better and cooler than anywhere else in the world, something that makes you go “Wow!” (too bad it’s the only place that actually lived up to the hype in Tokyo).

The Tokyo Skytree will redefine your idea of 'panoramic.' It’s official, respectable job is being a broadcasting tower. But, just like Clark Kent, he has something a little more fun up his sleeve, too—two eye-popping observation decks, complete with spiral staircases and a glass floor that’ll leave some people white-knuckling the walls! I had no such urge… on the outside, but was looking for my nearest exit and a parachute on the inside, haha.

I got to the first viewing platform and was blown away. Now this is the Tokyo I’m talking about! You can see all the way until the Earth curves! Or so it seems. Then you reach the top viewing area and you are smacked in the face with even better views! Try to make out Mt. Fuji in the distance , it’s a surreal experience. But that glass floor, damn!

There’s a restaurant and a café that you can enjoy as well, but we gave it a miss. Of course, there are souvenirs on sale, and you can even send a postcard home from the Skytree itself.

At night, the Skytree alternates between three illumination colors (blue, purple, and redish orange), as well as some special lightings thrown in here and there to keep it spicy.

If you’re taking the train , head to Tokyo Skytree Station or nearby Oshiage Station.

Getting tickets for Tokyo Skytree

Ticket lines can be as long as the tower is tall, but you’re a smart traveler that reads the best travel blog (this one), so you’ll buy them in advance on the official website (up to 30 days in advance). If you’re not sure what’s going on and can’t plan to save your life, you can still save your image by buying same-day tickets online (for a little more money). Everything is better than just rocking up and hoping to catch a break.

Is Tokyo Skytree worth it?

Absolutely, Tokyo Skytree is worth a visit because the views from it are truly spectacular! You know, especially if you're all about those cityscapes that stretch into tomorrow (and all the way to Mt. Fuji if you have good visibility!). And it’s simply an impressive structure.

• Tokyo Skytree official website
• Open daily 10 am–9 pm, last admission 8 pm
• Tickets cost JPY 2700 for both decks if bought in advance, JPY 3100 for same-day tickets

4. DisneySea

This was actually great fun  

I highly recommend spending one of your Tokyo days at DisneySea, the only one of its kind globally. This place has a slighty more grown-up vibe than Disneyland (like a tad, nothing major, there are still children everywhere and rides for little kids too), making it a no-brainer for those of us roaming without a kid iin tow. All of the reviews I’ve read say DisneySea is the best out of all the Disneylands worldwide, so if you’re on the fence, don’t be.

DisneySea can be done in a day —I, for one, don’t need extra days of any theme park (but we also had a blast at Universal Studios in Osaka !), but you may decide differently. If you are following in my footsteps and opting for a single day, get there early . For a cool 60 bucks (USD), you get in, but then you’ll want those priority passes once you see the queues—or, if you're as neurotic as I am, splurge on a timed entry and breeze past the masses.

I love how DisneySea has an actual harbor with a steamboat , you can see they had the budget to make it truly a place “where imagination and adventure set sail” (the official tagline). At USD 4 billion, DisneySea is the most expensive theme park ever built .

As something that seems almost as an oversight, despite the sea in its name, there's ironically just one water ride at DisneySea.

My favorite parts of DisneySea were the Arabian Coast (I loved Aladin as a kid!) and Toy Story (I honestly didn’t know it was Disney).

The Tower of Terror is a huge building and one of the main focal points of the park. It was… completely different than we expected, and boy, is that drop tall!! I don’t want to give you any spoilers, but it was a thrill. Even waiting in line was exciting—if you like to be freaked out.

As is standard in Disney Parks, even waiting in line is usually quite entertaining , though we only ever waited 15 minutes max, so I can’t say how much I’d like it if we were stuck there for 45 minutes . Just know that if the line seems to be short or moving fast outside, it may be a completely different story once you get inside. They zig-zag the heck out of those waiting areas.

Other DisneySea highlights, like the Journey to the Center of the Earth ride, with its dark tunnels and monster exhibits, make you forget you're in a theme park and not on some sci-fi adventure. Very much appreciated for the childless visitor!

My girlfriend and Neptun  

Some places, like Fortress Exploration , had me wondering what Disney movie they’re supposed to be from. And don’t get me started on the Venetian Village . I mean, what's up with that? It's like wandering into a Renaissance fair by accident.

Then there's Soaring: Fantastic Flight . Save it for later in the day when the queues die down, or just get that fast pass. The 3D waiting room alone is worth it , never mind the sensation of flying across the world in 5 minutes.

DisneySea is like Disney, but not. It's a day well spent. The verdict? DisneySea might just top the charts as the best theme park on the planet, with food that'll have you forgetting every theme park meal you've ever had.

And if you’re afraid you’re missing out on the real Disney magic, don’t be. Disney has a knack for turning employees into perpetually waving, smiling robots , and the sets are as magical as they can be, so you still get the whole experience just like you would in Disneyland.

DisneySea vs Disneyland: What’s the difference?

DisneySea is like Disneyland’s older cousin—a little more mature, and a little more obsessed with water.

Cool building, right? The Tower of Terror!  

DisneySea is the only one of its kind in the world, and it's where Disney ditches the tiaras for a touch of sophistication . Aimed slightly more at adults (or at least, the young at heart), it's an exploration of themed ports and nautical adventures. Think less Cinderella, more Nemo . The vibe here is mature; the rides a bit more thrilling ; and the scenery absolutely stunning. It's Disney with a dash of grown-up magic, plus a few beers thrown in for good measure (or was that just me?).

Disneyland, on the other hand, is the classic Disney experience . It's where fairy tales come to life, with castles, princesses, and all the Mickey Mouse you can handle. It's family-friendly to the core, designed to enchant visitors of all ages with its blend of nostalgic rides and timeless characters . Disneyland is where you go to live out those childhood dreams, complete with parades and meet-and-greets with your favorite characters.

5. Senso-ji

Time for some shopping and fortune telling @ Senso-ji  

Ah, Senso-ji, the oldest spot in Tokyo for those seeking some spiritual street cred; it honors Kannon, the goddess of mercy (you can see 1000 statues of the 11-headed, 1000-armed goddess at Sanjusangendo in Kyoto ). It's like the granddaddy of temples, standing since 645—though it was mostly rebuilt in the 1960s because history in Japan is basically a series of "build, burn, repeat."

Senso-ji is a large and colorful Buddhist temple , very popular, with lots of people always out and about. When you enter through the main gate, you’ll somewhat unexpectedly find a longish shopping street with traditional Japanese souvenirs being sold. Hey, maybe you really do need that 3 rd folding fan! It’s a historical street with many small stores, though the iPhone covers and toys don’t really match the theme.

Along the street and further inside, you can get your fortune told through omikuji (fortune-telling paper slips). For a non-believer such as myself, it’s just a silly little joke, fine for JPY 100. For the superstitious, such as my girlfriend, it’s a nail-biting 3 seconds trying to choose the right stick.  

Don't miss the chance to cleanse yourself with smoke and water before entering—it's like a spiritual detox. I think the smoke is supposed to make you smarter and then the water purifies you.

The pagoda at Senso-ji is said to contain Buddha’s shoes . They say if you can fill them, you're the chosen one. Just kidding. But it's good to know why this place is so special. Bet you didn’t think it was because of footwear!

Buddha’s shoes are enshrined in the pagoda  

Tip: I’ve explained the difference between a Buddhist temple and a Shinto shrine in another article, along with the appropriate etiquette at either.  You don’t want to get your claps and bows all wrong!

You can get to Senso-ji from Asakusa Station . From Tokyo Station, it’s about a 15-minute ride with 1 transfer at Kanda Station.

• Senso-ji grounds are always open. The main temple is open daily 6 am–5 pm. The shops open around 9 and stay open until late.

6. Akihabara district: Gadgets, anime, maid cafes, and pachinko

Akihabara during the day...  

Welcome to Tokyo’s geek heaven, or as I like to call it, the " Why yes, I do need a third LED-backlit keyboard " district. It’s quintessential Tokyo where neon lights and billboards rule the architecture. And if you leave without seeing a grown man in a Pikachu outfit , did you even go to Akihabara?

The Akihabara district is a sensory overload . It's where your wallet goes to die a glorious death among the latest tech gadgets and rare collectibles, and where you go marvel at how in a city with a population like Tokyo, you really can find a target audience for absolutely everything.

In summary, you could say that Akihabara is where you can experience some very specific Japanese activities . For me, I’m definitely “been there, done that, don’t want the t-shirt” on this one.

Let’s talk about maid cafes. “The what cafes?” Oh, they're exactly what they sound like —bizarre and utterly Japanese, and, if I can make a subjective assessment, pretty uncool. The people that visit these establishments are just strange (as you’d imagine).

Maid cafes are cafes where waitresses are dressed like maids . They greet customers using an annoying voice and tend to them in an overly friendly, servant-like manner, even drawing cute pictures onto their food, or breaking out into song and dance. Basically, they act like I’d never want anyone around me in real life to act. To add to the nonsense, these ladies were some of the least attractive I’d seen in Japan, and it took ages to get our order. They may be squeaky and awkwardly complacent , but they sure are slow!

And then there are the pachinko houses . In short, it’s a local hangout of gambling addicts . But gambling is prohibited in Japan, right?! Right. But this pinball machine turned into a “secret” gambling game, and it’s the loudest thing you’ll ever experience. It feels very out of place in an otherwise outwardly reserved Japan.

...and Akihabara at night  

The name pachinko comes from the sound the metal balls make in the machine, “pachi pachi” (you have to repeat that super-fast and loud to get the idea). When you add the music, sounds, and flashing lights of each pachinko machine, you get a headache really fast.

How does pachinko gambling work?

As I mentioned, gambling is prohibited, but since you’re playing for metal balls , Pachinko is just fine. Once you’ve won (or lost) enough games, you gather your balls, and then the magic loophole happens: To get your cash winnings, you have to leave the pachinko house, balls in hand , and go to a separate building where they give you money for said balls. Hence, it isn’t actual gambling… you’re just selling your metal balls. Of course, everyone knows about it, but I guess the lawmakers are pachinko players, too.

Tokyo hotel tip: Given that I loved Akihabara so much, you may be surprised that this was where our hotel was located. Yep, we slept in the midst of all the neon + pachinko + maid madness! But the hotel was great, I have to admit.

The Nohga Akihabara is not cheap, but it's got the best eats around. You're trading space for vibe here with cozy 21m 2 rooms. Its secret weapon? Killer blackout curtains keeping out the glare of the sun, moon, and neon billboards. Downside? No heated toilet seat —felt like a step back into the Ice Age! Our butts were used to a little more special treatment by this part of our Japan itinerary.

7. Imperial Palace

This is where the emperors live  

The Imperial Palace is where you can't actually go inside any of the buildings, let alone see the emperor, but can wander around his massive garden! I guess it’s interesting because you know they’re in there, somewhere . If you take the guided tour, you can spend 75 minutes walking onto a tiny portion of the otherwise forbidden Inner Grounds. I’m not really sure what you do on that short walk for so long because I didn’t care to find out, but it’s an option. Tours are free and run twice a day.

Tip: In case you really, really want to see the imperial family, you have a chance! Twice a year, on January 2 nd and then again on February 23 rd , which is the emperor’s birthday, the guided tour takes a slightly different route and the emperor and his family come out onto the balcony of the palace and waive to the public.

The Imperial Palace sits in the heart of Tokyo, a green oasis with important-looking buildings surrounded by a moat —because nothing says "keep out" like a body of water. It’s nothing spectacular, but it’s a must-see in Tokyo. You can walk around the Outer Gardens and get all the way up to Nijubashi Bridge , which connects the Outer and Inner Gardens. Only guided tours are allowed over the bridge.

You can walk to the Imperial Palace’s Kikyo-mon Gate from Tokyo Station in about 10 minutes .

• Official website of the Imperial Household Agency
• The grounds are always open and free to enter
• Guided tours go at 10 am and 1:30 pm every day except for Mondays and Sundays. Tickets are free but limited in number. They can be reserved on the Imperial Household Agency’s website or you can try to get a walk-in ticket at Kikyo-mon Gate.

8. Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is interesting, perhaps only because tourists make it interesting. Otherwise, it's just a busy pedestrian crossing  

It's just a colossal crosswalk, folks ! Sure, it's a spectacle of human flow, but once you've seen it, well, you've seen it. You can really start to tell the pickings are slim in Tokyo when one of must-sees is also very overrated. Shibuya Crossing is… a busy crosswalk! WOW! I know you want to see it and walk it for yourself, so did I, and so did a thousand other tourists. Now that I think of it, I wonder if it’s the tourists making it this busy…

Shibuya Crossing is pure chaos, because the crosswalks don’t just connect 4(ish) regular street corners, but there’s also the massive diagonal path down the middle . With this addition, the crossing possibilities are almost endless! You could spend hours doing figure eights at Shibuya Crossing if you wanted. Maybe when you find out how overrated Tokyo is and you run out of things to do, lol. Add people stopping in the middle, taking pictures and capturing videos, and you’ve got yourself an overcrowded nightmare. Or an epic experience, you choose.

Where is the best view of the Shibuya Crossing?

If you’re hoping to get a shot of Shibuya Crossing from higher grounds, you can try several options:

• There’s a Starbucks at the intersection with big windows, which is an ok option but it’s still pretty low to the ground.
• At Shibuya Station, follow the signs towards Shibuya Mark City. You can catch a view from the passage way, though it’s not the best view.
• A paid option is at the observation deck of the Magnet 109 building. Take the elevator to Mag’s Park , the rooftop event area. The views from up here are awesome! For JPY 1500 you get Shibuya Crossing views and a drink.
• The L’Occitane Café building has several cafes that have window seats. Guess what you can see from those windows?

To get to Shibuya Crossing, take exit no. 8 (Hachiko Square) from Shibuya Station .

BONUS: Speaking of which, I’d like to add an honorable mention for Hachiko , whose statue you can see at Hachiko Square. Hachiko, the legendary loyal pooch of Tokyo, is the city's unofficial mascot of fidelity. This dog took "man's best friend" to a whole new level , waiting for his owner every day at Shibuya Station, even years after his owner couldn't come back (because he was dead—in case that wasn’t clear).

Loyal dog shout out to Greyfriars Bobby ! This good boy has a similar story and a statue of his own in Edinburgh, Scotland. Read Bobby’s story (and my attempt at poking holes in the story).

These last three places are day trips from Tokyo . Because sooner or later, you’ll realize you want to escape the concrete jungle full of weird people (or just too many people in general) that is Tokyo. Here are my top picks:

9. Day trip from Tokyo to Nikko 

Oh Nikko, how I love thee  

Nikko, our first stop on our Japan trip, ended up being my favorite place in Japan . Forget the food, though—total letdown. And while a bad restaurant experience has been known to completely shatter my opinion of a place (looking at you, Ronda !), Nikko’s charm level managed to hold up.

I think Nikko is worth 2 days of your time, but if a day trip from Tokyo is all you have manage, do it. The place is a postcard come to life , with gems like Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls, and the majestic Toshogu Shrine. Just brace yourself for the traffic; it's a nightmare. But even that didn’t make me love Nikko any less. Every honk and delay is worth it for the views and the serenity of spots like Yudaki Falls and the Imperial Villa.

Nikko is a 2-hour drive or train trip from Tokyo city center.

Nikko hotel tip: The Marriott in Nikko is fantastic. I’m not usually a chain hotel type of guy, but the Marriott’s fantastic location, extremely comfy beds, and uber-smart toilets had me impressed. The coffee… not so much. Bleh.

Get more info: If you’re intrigued, hop over to my full guide to Nikko’s top sights.

10. Day trip from Tokyo to Kamakura

The Great Buddha statue in Kamakura survived even a tsunami  

Kamakura, with its chill vibe and historical depth , feels like stepping back in time. It's a coastal town where dozens of ancient temples meet the beach.

The Great Buddha is the headliner , but the real show is the town's laid-back atmosphere, contrasting sharply with Tokyo's frenzy—you’ll need a breather after a few days in Tokyo, trust me.

You can visit shrines like Hasedera, all set against a backdrop of lush greenery and beaches . The vibe here is a mix of spiritual tranquility and seaside relaxation. I steer clear of hippie towns, but Kamakura manages to stay more in surfer dude territory (a decidedly more Janapese kind) and less in obnoxious tie dye and crystals land. It's a place where you can explore the Kotoku-in Temple, get lost in the bamboo groves of Hokokuji (and compare them to that of the more famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest ), or just hang by the beach.

A day trip to Kamakura is a must for anyone wanting to swap city hustle for some zen and sea breeze.

Kamakura’s 1.5 hours away from central Tokyo by train or car.

11. Day trip from Tokyo to Hakone and Mt. Fuji

Mt. Fuji, we’re coming for you!  

I’m adding Mt. Fuji as a day trip from Tokyo despite there being enough things to see and do in the Hakone area to fill a lovely 2–3 days. But if you must squeeze it into 12 or so hours, leave early and make the most of it.

Mt. Fuji is Japan’s tallest peak (and active volcano), respectfully called Fuji-san by the locals. The nearby town of Hakone is a haven of natural beauty and surprisingly good restaurants, and the perfect place to base yourself if I convince you to spend the night(s).

While some Insta-famous spots like Hakone-jinja, the shrine on Ashinoko lake, might not live up to the hype, the real treasures like the Owakudani valley, the vistas of the super volcano, and hikes make it unforgettable.

For a little 1-hour long hike and the best views of Mt. Fuji (if the clouds are playing ball), take the purple trail at Mt. Mitsutoge.

Check out the pirate boats on Lake Ashi , and don't miss Chureito Pagoda viewpoint. It's that iconic red pagoda with Fuji in the backdrop —you know, the one that screams "Japan" in every photo. It’s not as amazing as Instagram wants it to look, but it’s nice.

For a touch of adventure, the Owakudani Valley , with its steaming vents and volcanic landscapes, offers a stark contrast to the serene beauty of Fuji. It's a reminder that this tranquil giant is very much alive (and smelly!).

Getting to Mt. Fuji from Tokyo is a breeze. The drive to Hakone takes 1.5 hours from central Tokyo . If you’re going by train, you’ll need to make at least one transfer and it’ll take you at least 2 hours. Drive, I tell ya!

So, where will you go next? Hakone was great. Just saying... (notice Mt. Fuji’s tip in the background)  

For everything Mt. Fuji, including tips on the best viewpoints, hikes, tourist attractions that are and aren’t worth it, and one of the top restaurants I encountered in Japan, check out my Hakone + Mt. Fuji guide (or go straight for the itinerary).

If you’d like to see how to fit all of the above (and some extras) into 3 days, hop on over to my 3-day Tokyo itinerary. If you’d like to see other places in Japan that have way more to offer, check out my guide to Kyoto or Nikko.  

This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission if you make bookings through my links, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!  

Recommended articles

Arashiyama is famous for its bamboo forest and scenic train route, but is there anything else to do there to warrant a full day visit? Of course! Here’s the itinerary I put together based on my experience in Arashiyama!

Imagine a place where sacred deer bow to you like they've just stepped out of a Harry Potter scene, all before you visit epic ancient temples, serene gardens, and breathtaking viewpoints. Welcome to Nara! 

Japan’s more than just sushi and ramen. As with everything Japanese, you can expect history, tradition, and a bit of quirkiness in Japanese food. Discover fun facts about Japanese food culture!

Thoughts? Give us a shout!

Hi! I’m Jan. I live in Prague, Czech Republic. I try to experience the best the world has to offer, and I don’t cease to be impressed. But if I’m not, I’m sure going to tell you! You can count on my full honesty and real opinions here. No bullcrap. I own and run several companies, which gives me great (but not unlimited) freedom to roam the world.  

I was first inspired to start this blog by my own experience of researching for upcoming trips—I often struggle with a lack of good information, accuracy, and authenticity of resources. You wouldn’t believe how many “travel bloggers” don’t even visit the destinations they write about! 

My goal with this blog is to provide you with complex and practical information so that you can plan your own vacation, complete with insights you’d only get if you visited the place. I also put together itineraries that are fully planned out trip guides.

Another aspect that drives this platform is my curiosity about the history, geography, politics, and economy of each country I visit, so I try to include this information in my articles, too. It’s always great to get the bigger picture, right? 

And just to be clear, I am not trying to compete with backpacking blogs or provide hacks for an economical and affordable experience. My vacations follow the standard pattern of traveling by plane, staying in good hotels, and renting a car on the spot to get around. I’m also always up for a fantastic meal, though I don’t shy away from local delicacies and street food, either.  

• Destinations
• Travel hacks
• Privacy policy

• Enable Accessibility

• 00800 0310 21 21 1-855-577-9489 1-877-288-3037 1-877-288-3037 1-877-474-2969
• | NCL Travel Blog">11-Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Northbound Cruise Tour | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Southbound Cruise Tour | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">20-Day Transpacific from Tokyo (Yokohama) & Alaska | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | NCL Travel Blog">11 Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• View All Results
• Preferences
• Latitudes Rewards
• Special Offers
• Personalised Recommendations
• Make reservations before you cruise
• 1 (current)

* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

Top Things to do in Tokyo, Japan

Are you planning a cruise to Tokyo, Japan , but don't know what to do while there? Luckily, Norwegian Cruise Line wants to help you make the most of your vacation, so we've crafted this helpful list of top things to do in Tokyo.

Tokyo is a hub of modern skyscrapers and bustling nightlife, with many opportunities to experience this stunning city's ancient history and new-age amenities. Whether you want to relax in an onsen, visit the Imperial Palace, or immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind foodie experience enjoying mouthwatering global cuisine, there are plenty of things to do to make any adventurer happy. Keep reading to explore some of the top things to do before or after your cruise vacation in Tokyo, Japan .

Ready to start planning? Explore all Tokyo cruises .

Visit the Tokyo National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum focuses on Japanese and Asian history. It combines the Independent Administrative Institution National Museum and the Independent Administrative Institution Research Institute of Cultural Properties. This dual focus allows the museum to direct its conservation, preservation, and education efforts. With a variety of permanent and ever-changing exhibitions, there's something new to see every time you visit.

The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Be sure to look up any local holidays or special events, as the museum often closes during those times.

Relax at the Miharashi no Yu Hot Springs

Whether you have chronic pain or stiffness or just want a unique experience, the Miharashi no Yu hot springs is just the ticket. The hot springs offer a unique insight into the Japanese way of life. Since they stay at a steady 117.5 degrees Fahrenheit, they can relieve chronic pain, muscle stiffness, and other issues.

Miharashi no Yu is open from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily but is often closed to the public on Tuesdays. It's open for most holidays. Another important thing to note is that the genders in the bathrooms change on odd and even days. In Japan, it's important to follow certain etiquette requirements at hot springs, including showering before entering.

RELATED CRUISES: 11-Day Asia from Seoul to Tokyo: Osaka, Kochi, Jeju & Nagoya 14-Day Japan to Manila: Osaka & Hong Kong 18-Day from Vancouver to Tokyo: Hubbard Glacier, Skagway & Juneau

Get a Taste of Japan at Kioicho Fukudaya

Kioicho Fukudaya began as an inn in 1939 and can boast housing Nobel-prize winners, including Yaunari Kawabata and Hideki Yukawa. While the inn eventually moved, the delicious cuisine moved with Fukudaya to deliver a Michelin-starred experience. The restaurant is open from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for dinner, so be sure to make reservations well in advance to get a taste.

Seasonal special course menus include tasty treats, such as deep-fried pufferfish, Sanpo mochi, miso soup, and grilled blackfin seabass. If you don't want to wait for a reservation, Fukudaya also offers home delivery and a takeaway option, so you can get a Michelin experience without leaving the comfort of your hotel room.

Take Time To Reflect at Senso-Ji Shrine

As the oldest temple in Tokyo, Senso-Ji Shrine is a religious hub that draws over 30 million worshippers each year. There are many yearly events to join in, such as the first temple visit of the year that happens between Jan. 1 and Jan. 7 or the celebration of the Bodhisattva Kannon's appearance on March 18. There are 10 different sites to see - not including the pleasure walks in between each gate and building - such as Yogodo Hall, Awashimado Hall, and Niten-mon Gate.

Enjoy a Tokyo Cruise Tour

If you want to hand the planning reins over to someone else but still have memories to last a lifetime, you can sign up for a hassle-free Tokyo cruise tour to enjoy a four-day, three-night land tour with a Tokyo cruise. Other items that might be on your itinerary include the Meiji Shrine, a drive to the Imperial Palace Plaza, Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Shipping Street, and a trip to the Tokyo Tower.

You don't have to worry about lodging, as it's included in these tours. When booking your cruise tour, be sure to verify if the tour includes transportation to your ship so you can embark on your cruise vacation without worrying about how to get there.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by GISELLE LANGLEY & STEPHEN JIROCH | Adventure Travel (@theloverspassport)

Planning Your Tokyo Adventure

Tokyo, Japan, offers a plethora of activities and otherworldly experiences that'll have you and your family talking about your Japan getaway for years. Planning an unforgettable vacation doesn't have to wait until you step aboard your cruise ship; you can start making memories before your cruise vacation. Japan offers historic landmarks, exciting city life, and gourmet food, so there's something for everyone in Tokyo to explore.

Whilst you're deciding which cruise holiday is right for you, be sure to sign up for emails to get the latest cruise deals and special offers delivered right to your inbox. Where are you cruising next? Tell us in the comments!

16 Japanese Cities To Visit Besides Tokyo And Kyoto

• Osaka: Experience incredible nightlife and outstanding cuisine in this seaside city known for its energetic atmosphere and delicious food.
• Naoshima: Discover the art island with its galleries, sculptures, and installations, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and sea views.
• Himeji: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Himeji-jo castle and explore the picturesque Mount Shosha and Kokoen garden for a diverse cultural experience.

As Japan finally opens its borders to eager travelers after one of the strictest lockdowns that the world has seen, most itineraries focus on the shopping districts of Tokyo and the Buddhist temples of Kyoto. Occasionally, the street food of Osaka might make it to the list.

Few consider venturing beyond the big cities of Tokyo and Kyoto, but for those who dare try, thrilling adventures await in Japan's best cities. From former homes of samurai warriors and current cities of geishas, hot springs spas, traditional architecture, and ski mountains — these cities deserve a spot on everyone’s Japanese bucket list.

UPDATE: 2023/10/09 19:32 EST BY MARIA BOU INK

Japan's beauty is not limited to Tokyo and Kyoto. The country is a hub of wonderful towns that are worth a trip. Therefore, this list was updated to include two of the best cities to visit in Japan besides Tokyo and Kyoto.

Related: Beautiful Tourist Pics Showcasing The Best Things Japan Is Known For

If tourists want to sample some of the greatest cuisine and beverages Japan has to offer, they should head over to Osaka , a seaside city famed for its incredible nightlife and outstanding cuisine. Tokyo's big-city energy is also present here but on a little lesser scale. This way, tourists can visit cities in Japan other than Tokyo and Kyoto while having the same vibes and escaping the crowds. Tourists are recommended to visit the Osaka Castle and Park in between all of their eating and exploring. It is one of the most well-known sights in Japan and is definitely worth visiting.

• Some attractions: Tempozan Ferris Wheel, Universal Studio Japan, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, etc.

The island of Naoshima, which is reachable via ferry, is a wonderful location. The area is referred to as the art island, and tourists may find galleries, sculptures, and installations everywhere they go, especially if they stay at the upscale Benesse House, which serves as both a hotel and a museum of modern art. On the island, there are two towns, both of which include charming stores and little restaurants. There are also sea views everywhere, which enhances the tranquil atmosphere.

• Some attractions: The Yellow Pumpkin, Chichu Art Museum, Naoshima Public Bath I Love Yu, etc.

Home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site castle , Himeji is worth a special trip for the Himeji-jo castle alone. Widely considered to be the finest example of 17th-century feudal-era Japanese architecture that still survives, Himeji-jo may be the reason tourists visit this city in Japan, but Himeji gives them several reasons to stay. On the outskirts of the city is the picturesque Mount Shosha, with a Buddhist temple at its peak. And if a hike isn’t someone’s cup of tea, tourists can spend a day at the Kokoen garden, which is made of nine walled gardens connected by a network of streams, waterfalls, and ponds and sits on the former feudal lord’s residence.

• Some attractions: Himeji Castle, Engyoji, Himeji Central Park, etc.

Related: Three Days In Japan: 10 Cities You Can Explore In Only 72 Hours

Matsue’s location on a peninsula by the Sea of Japan with Lake Shinji on its west and Lake Nakaumi on the east has given the city another name: The City of Water. While the water bodies that surround it have given Matsue its second name, there are also water bodies within the city. Canals with boat tours for tourists flow through the city, old samurai houses flank its streets, and Matsue is home to one of only twelve medieval castles that are preserved in their original state in Japan. But that’s not all: the city has long attracted curious travelers with its rich myths and legends related to Matsue being the place where Japanese gods descend.

• Some attractions: Matsue-jō Castle, Yuushien, Yaegaki Shrine, etc.

Yokohama is the second-largest Japanese city and the first to have opened its ports to the world at the end of the Edo Period. The port city quickly transformed from a small fishing village to a major city when foreign trade introduced new cultures to the old Japanese traditions of the village. As a result, Yokohama offers a contrast between old and new, and travelers can explore the streets of Yokohama to see the Western influence on the Japanese way of life everywhere. Tourists can visit traditional Japanese gardens and tea rooms, ramen and instant cup noodle museums, giant ferry wheels reminiscent of the London Eye, and one of the largest Chinatowns in the whole country.

• Some attractions: Shin Yokohama Ramen Museum, Yokohama Chinatown, Yokohama Cosmoworld, etc.

For those who like the crowds of Tokyo but wish for a city just a tad more quite than the Japanese capital, Fukuoka’s contemporary attractions make it the ideal city. Fukuoka is Japan’s eighth most populous city and balances urban life with the natural beauty that is synonymous with Japan. The port city is filled with hot springs, hike trails, tea plantations, and sake breweries. But the best part, perhaps, is the fact that Fukuoka happens to be the city that invented tonkatsu ramen , so for those who’d like to slurp their way through Japan via its ramen, Fukuoka has to be the starting place.

• Some attractions: Ohori Park, Marine World, Uminonakamichi Seaside Park, etc.

Hokkaido is an island region of Japan that is known for its hot springs, ski mountains, and volcanoes. Hakodate — located on the island’s southern tip — is one of the largest cities in Hokkaido and was voted Japan’s most attractive city in 2015. Visitors can hike to Mount Hakodate and enjoy spectacular views of the city surrounded by the sea, soak in the hot springs, go down ski slopes, or take in the views of the Mount Komagatake volcano from the lakes of Onuma Park. The best part of the port city, however, is its food. Surrounded by the sea, Hakodate is famous for its freshly-caught seafood, and the Hakodate Morning Market is the best place to enjoy it.

• Some attractions: Goryokaku, Goryokaku Tower, Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, etc.

Related: After Cherry Blossom Season, Here Are 10 Unique Activities To Enjoy In Japan This Fall

Kyoto isn’t the only city in Japan famous for its Buddhist monasteries and temples. Formerly known as Heijo-Kyo , Nara was once Japan’s capital city and is now home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites . The Horyuji Area of Nara was the first to be on the list and includes 48 Buddhist sites, all of which are of immense importance to the Japanese culture and religion. Also on the list are areas with several temples and historical monuments from ancient times when Nara was still the capital, as well as pilgrimage routes and sites on the Kii Mountain. Tourists can end their tour of the temples and spiritual sites of Nara with a friendly visit to greet the deers at the Nara Park or stroll through Imaicho — a merchant town preserved from the Edo period that will take everyone back in time.

• Some attractions: Today-ji, Nara Park, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, etc.

Nagasaki is most often associated with the atomic bomb and the tragedy that followed. Still, the city has a lot more to offer beyond the Atomic Bomb Museum and the Nagasaki Peace Park, which attract most tourists. Not only is the city home to several stunning islands off its coast, but Nagasaki has consistently ranked on top of the list of places with the best night views in Japan . Travelers can hop onto a ropeway to the peak of Mount Inasa and enjoy spectacular views of Nagasaki as it lights up after sunset. More surprisingly, however, Japan’s first and oldest Chinatown happens to be in Nagasaki, and it has continued to serve Japanese-Chinese fusion foods since the 17th century.

• S ome attractions: Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, Peace Park, Glover Garden, etc.

For those whose idea of a holiday in Japan includes spending hours soaking in hot water springs, Beppu is the place to be. Beppu’s gushes of hot spring water rank second highest in the world and the highest in Japan, gushing more than 100,000 liters of water each minute through thousands of hot springs. Not only does the abundance of hot springs make Beppu the Onsen City of Japan, but Beppu also has several boiling ponds known as Jigoku or hell. Locals use these Jigoku ponds for cooking food as well, giving rise to a culinary custom known as Jigoku-Mushi, or hell-steaming, that is peculiar to Beppu.

• Some attractions: Kannawa Hot Springs, Beppu Ropeway, Shidaka Lake, etc.

Takayama is several things: A city surrounded by the Japanese Alps, Japan’s ski destination, home to bustling morning markets and festivals dating back to the 1600s, and a place where Japanese tradition flourishes through some of the country’s most beautifully preserved villages. Takayama’s Sanmachi area, in particular, houses preserved thatched-roof houses from which antique dealers and artisans sell their wares, and hidden cafes and brewers dish out hot coffees and icy sake to any visitors who manage to spot them.

• Some attractions: Takayama Jinya, Hida Folk Village, Shinhotaka Ropeway, etc.

The city that served as the seat of the second most powerful feudal clan in Japan during the Edo period, Kanazawa has always been a place of great cultural significance in Japan. More importantly, Kanazawa was the second largest city after Kyoto, which managed to remain safe from the bombings of World War II. As a result, most of the city’s old castles, gardens, samurai, and geisha districts have survived the test of time. That being said, Kanazawa also houses the iconic 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and is the city where traditional teahouses and crafts, including Kaga-yuzen (a silk dying technique), ohi ware (tea ceremony bowls), and gold leaf production continue to prosper.

• Some attractions: Kenroku-en, Higashi Chaya District, Myouryouji, etc.

Related: Unwind & Relax In Japan: The Best Onsens To Soothe Your Soul

Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go is not a city but a traditional Japanese alpine village stuck in time . It is part of a national park and is a great place to visit to see the way things used to be in Japan. Here (and its sister village Gokayama), visitors may feel like they are living in the world of the 2003 movie, The Last Samurai starring Tom Cruise (although it was actually filmed in New Zealand).

These traditional villages are UNESCO World Heritage Listed and are a great example of how Japan works to preserve its heritage.

• Some attractions: Wada House, Gassho-zukuri Minkaen, Myozenji, etc.

Hiroshima is one of only two cities to ever be hit with a nuclear bomb . It is also a testament to how cities can bounce back from destruction, being today a thriving city of over one million people. It was founded in 1589 as a castle town but transformed into a major industrial hub (which made it a target for nuclear bombing).

Today visitors can see the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Hiroshima Peace Memorial and commemorate the bombing wishing for such destruction to never again return to this planet.

• Some attractions: Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome, etc.

Sapporo is the capital of Japan's northern island of Hokkaido. It is the largest city north of Tokyo and is considered the cultural and economic center of Hokkaido. The city hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics and is one of the best places in Japan to enjoy the winter season. Come in early February and attend the Sapporo Snow Festival. The festival draws over 2 million visitors from far and wide. Additionally, Sapporo is home to the only beer museum in Japan - the Sapporo Beer Museum.

• Some attractions: Hokkaido Jingu, Moerenuma Park, Sapporo Beer Museum, etc.

Naha is the capital of the Okinawa Prefecture of Japan ( Okinawa is Japan's fifth major island ). The city has a population of around 300,000 and enjoys a humid subtropical climate (quite the opposite of Hokkaido's Sapporo). It is a stunning city and the gateway to Okinawa Island (which Americans may recall from the costly American invasion of the islands in World War Two). One of the top attractions in the city is the restored and rebuilt Shuri Castle (a former royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom).

• Some attractions: Shuri Castle, Naminoue Shrine, Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum, etc.

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 8 Serene Places To Visit Near Eiffel Tower And Admire Its Timeless Beauty

Located on the bank of the Seine River, Paris is the capital city of France, embracing a charming fusion of culture, romance, and history. The city captures the attention of tourists from all over the with its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Louvre Museum. Not only this, but there are also many places to visit near Eiffel Tower that allow visitors to discover Paris’s allure beyond its legendary landmarks. These treasures promise an unforgettable travelling experience to this marvellous city, So, head out on an enchanting journey where we will unlock the some of hidden gems of the city awaiting your exploration.

Places To Visit Near Eiffel Tower

Discover these hidden treasures of Paris offering enriching experiences complementing your Eiffel Tower visit. Here is a list of wonderful places to visit near Eiffel Tower worth exploring on your next trip.

1. Paris Museum Of Modern Art

Image Source: Shutterstock

Nestled in the heart of Paris, the Museum of Modern Art is one of the best places to visit near Eiffel Tower that captures the attention of people with curious minds. This captivating museum was inaugurated in 1961 and exhibits various forms of contemporary creations, such as sculptures, photographs, paintings and scenic installations. Featuring more than 13,000 artworks, the Paris Museum of Modern Art allows visitors to indulge in the artistic history of the region, as well as discover its untold facts. A perfect place for art lovers where they can admire the stunning collection of modern and contemporary art pieces by Chagall, Picasso, Braque, Klein, and Giacometti. Along with this, you can also witness the visionary art of Nicolas de Staël and dive into an unforgettable artistic experience.

Location: 11 Av. du Président Wilson, 75116 Paris, France Timing: 10.00 AM to 6.00 PM Entry Fee: Free Distance from Eiffel Tower: 1 Km

Must Read: Transportation In Paris

2. Musée De L’Armée

Renowned as one of the notable military museums in the world, Musée De L’Armée is one of the great attractions near Eiffel Tower for history admirers. Packed with an incredible collection of the military, including emblems, weapons, uniforms, armour, and photographs, the museum will surely take you back to the Middle Ages’ tales. Apart from showcasing this incredible in-house collection, Musée De L’Armée is also fortified with exhibitions from France’s military history. Visitors are also welcome to embark on a guided tour and explore this remarkable collection in-depth. Those who want to indulge their senses in the region’s great history are welcome to explore this holistic paradise. Musée De L’Armée is counted among the best places to visit in Paris

Location: 129 Rue de Grenelle, 75007 Paris, France Timing: 10.00 AM to 6.00 PM Entry Fee: €11–14 Distance from Eiffel Tower: 1.9 Km

3. Rodin Museum

Exhibiting the stunning works of Auguste Rodin, the Rodin Museum is one of the tourist attractions near the Eiffel Tower. The museum attracts art lovers and curious visitors from far and wide to admire the notable work of world-famous artists like Vincent Van Gogh and Pierre Auguste. Adorned with intricate interiors, the museum is packed with countless sculptures, photographs and drawings that are worth exploring on your next visit to Paris. Apart from this, you can also witness the noteworthy work of world-renowned artists Camille Claudel and Claude Monet. Along with admiring the artworks, take a stroll around the sculpture Garden where you can witness the world-famous statues, such as The Thinker, The Kiss, Fugit Amor and Thought. For art enthusiasts and history buffs, the Rodin Museum is no less than a paradise.

Location: 77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris, France Timing: 10.00 AM to 6.30 PM, Closed on Monday Entry Fee: €13 Distance from Eiffel Tower: 1.9 Km

Suggested Read: Romantic Places In Paris

4. Bois De Boulogne

Perched at the heart of the west of Paris, Bois De Boulogne is one of the most peaceful places to see near Eiffel Tower. Holding the dignity of being the largest public park in the region, the park is spread over an area of 850 hectares and is world-famous as a royal hunting site. Bois De Boulogne is a perfect place for a picnic day and serves as an ideal escape amidst serenity. Embracing its stunning structures, fine restaurants, kids’ play zones and racecourses, the park is filled with surprises for people of all ages. Because of its vibrant surroundings and glorious atmosphere, the park is very famous among locals and tourists alike for spending quality time with their loved ones overlooking the lakes, caves, waterfalls and cascades. To capture some noteworthy moments, the park also features a zoo and a photography pavilion.

Location: Paris, France Timing: Open 24 hours Entry Fee: Free Distance from Eiffel Tower: 3.4 Km

5. Palais De Tokyo

Embracing its glorious charm of contemporary and modern art, Palais De Tokyo is an artistic haven which is located at 13 Avenue du President-Wilson. The museum is known for its remarkable fusion of art and technology that not only leaves visitors in awe but also allows them to add an extraordinary touch to their trip. Featuring stunning artworks from the 20th and 21st centuries, this innovative museum is adorned with bombastic nationalist architecture. Apart from exploring its antique artefacts, the museum also boasts a bookstore with a marvellous collection of books and related souvenirs. There are also nearby nightclubs and cafes, where you can enjoy the exciting nightlife of Paris as well as, witness the glorious view of the Eiffel Tower at night.

Location: 13 Av. du Président Wilson, 75116 Paris, France Timing: 12.00 PM to 10.00 PM Entry Fee: 12€ Distance from Eiffel Tower: 1 Km

Suggested Read: Paris In December

6. Passerelle Debilly

If you are wondering what to do near Eiffel Tower then embark on a captivating journey to Passerelle Debilly that embraces the historical and architectural charm of the region. Overlooking the Seine River and made with a grandeur metal structure, this arch bridge provides visitors with a beautiful walkway connecting the 7th and 16th arrondissements. Passerelle Debilly is a stunning illustration of the Art Nouveau architecture style which is adorned with a graceful charm and adds an elegant beauty to the Parisian scenery. Offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is one of the most famous places to visit near Eiffel Tower for strolls, as well as for romantic walks,

Location: Passerelle Debilly, 75007 Paris, France Timing: Open 24 hours Entry Fee: NA Distance from Eiffel Tower: 750 m

7. Bal De La Marine

Also known as the ‘hôtel de la Marine,’ Bal de la Marine is one of the amazing places to visit near Eiffel Tower and dive into the artefacts from bygone eras. The building is located at Place de la Concorde and was built by Ange-Jacques Gabriel, a famous architect, between 1757 and 1774. Later, it again went under construction between 2015 and 2021 in its present form. The prime attraction of the place is its antique collections from the 18th century that attract history buffs and people with curious minds from all over the world. Along with flaunting its historic charm, Bal de la Marine also exhibits the Al Thani Collection which surely serves as an amazing retreat for art admirers.

Location: Port de Suffren, 75007 Paris, France Timing: 5.00 PM to 2.00 AM Entry Fee: NA Distance from Eiffel Tower: 1 Km

Suggested Read: Most Romantic Restaurants In Paris

8. L’île Aux Cygnes

Perched along the Seine River, L’île Aux Cygnes is a serene oasis which is also known as the Isle of Swans. Counted among one of the best places to visit near Eiffel Tower, the island is a perfect place for strolling along the picturesque promenades which are adorned with lush greenery and charming statues. L’île Aux Cygnes also houses the replica of the iconic Statue of Liberty. Those looking for an enchanting escape from the bustling city streets and admiring the stunning views of the Eiffel Tower are welcome to explore the captivating glory and serene ambience of this place. Taking a leisurely stroll here is among the wonderful things to do near Eiffel Tower.

Location: Paris, France Timing: NA Entry Fee: NA Distance from Eiffel Tower: 2.1 Km

Further Read: Vineyards Near Paris

From the Paris Museum Of Modern Art to the L’île Aux Cygnes, there are countless places to visit near Eiffel Tower that offer tourists an unforgettable journey beyond its legendary landmarks. On your next trip to Paris , don’t miss to include these gems in your itinerary and indulge yourself in the rich history and culture of the region. Bon voyage!

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Cover Image Source: Shutterstock

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit Near Eiffel Tower

What time does the Eiffel Tower light up?

Every evening from sunset until 11.45 p.m., the beacon and tower lights are illuminated. Thanks to light-sensitive twilight sensors, the golden illumination of the Eiffel Tower turns on automatically in less than ten minutes as night falls.

What are the best places to visit in Paris?

Paris is a marvellous city packed with countless attractions. These gems are as follows:

• Eiffel Tower
• Louvre Museum
• Arc de Triomphe
• Musee d’Orsay
• Tuileries Garden
• Palais Garnier
• Palace of Versailles

What are the best places to visit near Eiffel Tower?

On your next visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower, don’t let these gems slide away from your itinerary:

• Passerelle Debilly
• Bal De La Marine
• L’île Aux Cygnes
• Palais De Tokyo
• Musée De L’Armée

What is the best time to visit Paris?

With gorgeous greenery all around, Paris comes to life in the spring. The months of February through April are perfect for outdoor pursuits including cycling, strolling, picnicking, and more. Because of the ideal weather, this is the busiest time of year for travellers visiting Paris.

What is the must-try food in Paris?

The must-try food in Paris includes, croissants, macarons, baguettes and croque-monsieurs.

People Also Read:

Things To Do In Paris Hidden Gems In Paris Shopping In Paris

Recent Posts

आनंदपूर्वक घूमने के लिए 52 भारत में सर्वश्रेष्ठ छुट्टियाँ बिताने की जगहें

2024 में एक ताज़गी भरी 49 छुट्टियों के लिए उत्तर भारत में घूमने की जगहें

भारत से घूमने के लिए सबसे सस्ते देश जहां आपको 50K से भी कम खर्च आएगा!

9 Best Places To Visit Near Humayun Tomb For A Wholesome Experience

27 पुणे में मज़ेदार जगहें 2024 में आपका उत्साह बढ़ा देंगी

Best Places To Visit Near Taj Mahal That Are Beyond The White Marble Marvel

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Places To Visit »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

Taiwan is hit by its strongest earthquake in nearly 25 years

John Ruwitch

In this image taken from a video footage run by TVBS, residents rescue a child from a partially collapsed building in Hualien, eastern Taiwan on Wednesday. AP hide caption

In this image taken from a video footage run by TVBS, residents rescue a child from a partially collapsed building in Hualien, eastern Taiwan on Wednesday.

TAIPEI, Taiwan — A major earthquake struck Taiwan during the morning rush hour on Wednesday, collapsing buildings and triggering tsunami warnings in Japan and the Philippines.

At least 9 people were reported dead and 963 were injured in the strongest earthquake that has not seen since 1999, Taiwanese officials said.

The Picture Show

Photos: see the aftermath of the taiwan earthquake.

The quake hit near the eastern city of Hualien at 7:58 a.m. local time (2358 GMT) and had a magnitude of 7.4, according to the U.S. Geological Survey , making it the strongest quake to hit since 1999. The depth was about 35 kilometers (22 miles), which is considered shallow. Taiwan's earthquake monitoring agency gave the magnitude as 7.2.

Strong shaking was felt in Taipei, the capital, some 100 miles away, with aftershocks continued for roughly two hours. And there were reports in China that people as far away as Shanghai, about 500 miles to the north, could feel the earthquake.

Earthquakes happen all over the world. Here's how to start preparing for one

Images on television showed extensive damage, including buildings listing to the side after having been shaken off their foundations. The authorities suspended work and school in Hualien, an area with about 300,000 residents. Officials also closed down eight power plants for safety, and 87,000 residents in Hualien, the epicenter, were without power, though electricity remains on for the rest of the island.

TSMC, the world's leading maker of cutting edge microchips, temporarily evacuated production lines after the quake.

In this image taken from a video footage run by TVBS, a partially collapsed building is seen in Hualien, eastern Taiwan on Wednesday. A powerful earthquake rocked the entire island of Taiwan early Wednesday, collapsing buildings in a southern city and creating a tsunami that washed ashore on southern Japanese islands. TVBS via AP hide caption

In this image taken from a video footage run by TVBS, a partially collapsed building is seen in Hualien, eastern Taiwan on Wednesday. A powerful earthquake rocked the entire island of Taiwan early Wednesday, collapsing buildings in a southern city and creating a tsunami that washed ashore on southern Japanese islands.

Taiwan's transportation authorities said train service was suspended island-wide, as well as subway service in Taipei. Videos from the epicenter show rockslides covering roads and houses that were knocked off-kilter.

An initial tsunami warning issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency was lifted later on Wednesday. The AP reported that a wave of 30 centimeters (about 1 foot) was detected on the coast of Yonaguni island about 15 minutes after the quake struck. JAMA said waves likely also hit the coasts of Miyako and Yaeyama islands.

Taiwan earthquake briefly halts chip factories that power the global economy

In the Philippines, no tsunami warning was issued, but residents in various coastal areas were advised to move to higher ground or move inland.

According to Taiwan media, the last earthquake of a magnitude 7 or greater to hit the island was the Sept. 21, 1999, "Jiji" earthquake that measured 7.3, which destroyed thousands of buildings and killed more than 2,400 people.

John Ruwitch contributed reporting from Beijing.

Strong Taiwan Quake Kills 9, Injures Hundreds

The earthquake was the most powerful to hit the island in 25 years. Dozens of people remained trapped, and many buildings were damaged, with the worst centered in the city of Hualien.

• Share full article

• Hualien, Taiwan A landslide after the quake. Lam Yik Fei for The New York Times
• New Taipei City, Taiwan Books flew off shelves as a home shook. @Abalamindo via Storyful
• Taipei, Taiwan Passengers waiting at a train station as some services were suspended. Chiang Ying-Ying/Associated Press
• Hualien, Taiwan People are rescued from a building that had partially collapsed. TVBS via Associated Press
• Hualien, Taiwan Firefighters rescuing trapped residents from a building. CTI News via Reuters
• Taipei, Taiwan Students evacuated to a school courtyard after the earthquake. Lam Yik Fei for The New York Times
• Guishan Island, Taiwan Rocks tumbling down one side of an island popular for hiking. Lavine Lin via Reuters
• Hualien, Taiwan A building leaned to one side after the quake. Randy Yang via Associated Press
• Ishigaki, Okinawa, Japan Watching news on a rooftop of a hotel after a tsunami warning. Chang W. Lee/The New York Times
• Hualien, Taiwan Motorbikes damaged in the quake. TVBS via Associated Press
• New Taipei City, Taiwan Damage in an apartment Fabian Hamacher/Reuters
• New Taipei City, Taiwan Water cascading down a building during the quake. Wang via Reuters

Meaghan Tobin and Victoria Kim

Here’s what you need to know about the earthquake.

Taiwan was rocked Wednesday morning by the island’s strongest earthquake in a quarter century, a magnitude 7.4 tremor that killed at least nine people, injured more than 800 others and trapped dozens of people.

The heaviest damage was in Hualien County on the island’s east coast, a sleepy, scenic area prone to earthquakes. Footage from the aftermath showed a 10-story building there partially collapsed and leaning heavily to one side, from which residents emerged through windows and climbed down ladders, assisted by rescuers. Three hikers were killed after being hit by falling rocks on a hiking trail in Taroko National Park, according to the county government.

By late afternoon, officials said rescue efforts were underway to try to rescue 127 people who were trapped, many of them on hiking trails in Hualien.

One building in Changhua County, on the island’s west coast, collapsed entirely. The quake was felt throughout Taiwan and set off at least nine landslides, sending rocks tumbling onto Suhua Highway in Hualien, according to local media reports. Rail services were halted at one point across the island.

The earthquake, with an epicenter off Taiwan’s east coast, struck during the morning commute, shortly before 8 a.m. Taiwanese authorities said by 3 p.m., more than 100 aftershocks, many of them stronger than magnitude 5, had rumbled through the area.

In the capital, Taipei, buildings shook for over a minute from the initial quake. Taiwan is at the intersection of the Philippine Sea tectonic plate and the Eurasian plate, making it vulnerable to seismic activity. Hualien sits on multiple active faults, and 17 people died in a quake there in 2018.

Here is the latest:

The earthquake hit Taiwan as many people there were preparing to travel for Tomb Sweeping Day, a holiday across the Chinese-speaking world when people mourn the dead and make offerings at their graves. Officials warned the public to stay away from visiting tombs in mountain areas as a precaution, especially because rain was forecast in the coming days.

TSMC, the world’s biggest maker of advanced semiconductors, briefly evacuated workers from its factories but said a few hours later that they were returning to work. Chip production is highly precise, and even short shutdowns can cost millions of dollars.

Christopher Buckley

Lai Ching-te, Taiwan’s vice president, who is also its president-elect, visited the city of Hualien this afternoon to assess the destruction and the rescue efforts, a government announcement said. Mr. Lai, who will become president in May, said the most urgent tasks were rescuing trapped residents and providing medical care. Next, Mr. Lai said, public services must be restored, including transportation, water and power. He said Taiwan Railway’s eastern line could be reopened by Thursday night.

Meaghan Tobin

Taiwan’s fire department has updated its figures, reporting that nine people have died and 934 others have been injured in the quake. Fifty-six people in Hualien County remain trapped.

Shake intensity

Taiwan’s fire department reports that nine people have died and 882 others have been injured in Taiwan. In Hualien County, 131 people remain trapped.

Agnes Chang

Footage shows rocks tumbling down one side of Guishan Island, a popular spot for hiking known as Turtle Island, off the northeast coast of Taiwan. Officials said no fishermen or tourists were injured after the landslide.

The death toll has risen to nine, according to Taiwan government statistics.

Meaghan Tobin, Siyi Zhao

Officials in Taiwan warned residents to not visit their relatives' tombs, especially in the mountains, this weekend during the holiday, known as Ching Ming, meant to honor them. There had already been 100 aftershocks and the forecast called for rain, which could make travel conditions on damaged roads more treacherous.

Crews are working to reach people trapped on blocked roads. As of 1 p.m. local time, roads were impassable due to damage and fallen rock in 19 places, according to the Ministry of Transportation. At least 77 people remain trapped. A bridge before Daqingshui Tunnel appeared to have completely collapsed.

Taiwan’s worst rail disaster in decades — a train derailment in 2021 that killed 49 people — took place on the first day of the Tomb Sweeping holiday period that year, in the same region as the earthquake.

The earthquake hit Taiwan as many people here were preparing to travel for Tomb Sweeping Day, or Ching Ming, a day across the Chinese-speaking world when people mourn their dead, especially by making offerings at their graves. Now those plans will be disrupted for many Taiwanese.

The holiday weekend would typically see a spike in travel as people visit family across Taiwan. Currently, both rail transport and highways are blocked in parts of Hualien, said Transport Minister Wang Guo-cai. Work is underway to restore rail transportation in Hualien, and two-way traffic is expected to be restored at noon on Thursday, he said.

Taiwan’s preparedness has evolved in response to past quakes.

Taiwan’s earthquake preparedness has evolved over the past few decades in response to some of the island’s largest and most destructive quakes .

In the years after a 7.6 magnitude earthquake in central Taiwan killed nearly 2,500 people in 1999, the authorities established an urban search-and-rescue team and opened several emergency medical operation centers, among other measures .

And in 2018, after a quake in the eastern coastal city of Hualien killed 17 people and caused several buildings to partially collapse, the government ordered a wave of building inspections .

Taiwan has also been improving its early warning system for earthquakes since the 1980s. And two years ago, it rolled out new building codes that, among other things, require owners of vulnerable buildings to install ad-hoc structural reinforcements.

So how well prepared was Taiwan when a 7.4 magnitude quake struck near Hualien on Wednesday morning, killing at least seven people and injuring hundreds more?

Across the island, one building collapsed entirely, 15 others were in a state of partial collapse and another 67 were damaged, the island’s fire department said on Wednesday afternoon . Structural engineers could not immediately be reached for comment to assess that damage, or the extent to which building codes and other regulations might have either contributed to it or prevented worse destruction.

As for search-and-rescue preparedness, Taiwan is generally in very good shape, said Steve Glassey, an expert in disaster response who lives in New Zealand.

“ The skill sets, the capabilities, the equipment, the training is second to none,” said Dr. Glassey, who worked with Taipei’s urban search-and-rescue team during the response to a devastating 2011 earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand. “They’re a very sharp operation.”

But even the best urban search-and-rescue team will be stretched thin if an earthquake causes multiple buildings to collapse, Dr. Glassey said.

Taiwan has options for requesting international help with search-and-rescue efforts. It could directly ask another country, or countries, to send personnel. And if multiple teams were to get involved, it could ask the United Nations to help coordinate them, as it did after the 1999 earthquake.

Pierre Peron, a spokesman for the United Nations, said on Wednesday afternoon that no such request had yet been made as a result of the latest earthquake.

Meaghan Tobin contributed reporting.

At least seven people have died and 736 have been injured as a result of the earthquake, according to Taiwan’s fire department. Another 77 people remained trapped in Hualien County, many of them on hiking trails. Search and rescue operations are underway, said the fire department.

Aftershocks of magnitudes between 6.5 and 7 were likely to occur over the next three or four days, said Wu Chien-fu, director of the Taiwanese Central Weather Administration’s Seismology Center, at a news conference.

As of 2 p.m., 711 people had been injured across Taiwan, the fire department said, and 77 people in Hualien County remained trapped. The four who were known to have died were in Hualien.

Victoria Kim

Hualien County is a quiet and scenic tourist destination.

Hualien County on Taiwan’s east coast is a scenic, sleepy tourist area tucked away from the island’s urban centers, with a famous gorge and aquamarine waters. It also happens to sit on several active faults , making it prone to earthquakes.

The county has a population of about 300,000, according to the 2020 census, about a third of whom live in the coastal city of Hualien, the county seat. It is one of the most sparsely populated parts of Taiwan. About three hours by train from the capital, Taipei, the city describes itself as the first place on the island that’s touched by the sun.

Hualien County is home to Taroko National Park, one of Taiwan’s most popular scenic areas. Visitors come to explore the Taroko Gorge, a striated marble canyon carved by the Liwu River, which cuts through mountains that rise steeply from the coast. The city of Hualien is a popular destination as a gateway to the national park.

According to the state-owned Central News Agency, three hikers were trapped on a trail near the entrance to the gorge on Wednesday, after the quake sent rocks falling. Two of them were found dead, the news agency said. Administrators said many roads within the park had been cut off by the earthquake, potentially trapping hikers, according to the report.

Earthquakes have rattled Hualien with some regularity. In 2018, 17 people were killed and hundreds of others injured when a magnitude 6.5 quake struck just before midnight, its epicenter a short distance northeast of the city of Hualien.

Many of the victims in that quake were in a 12-story building that was severely tilted, the first four floors of which were largely crushed, according to news reports from the time. The next year, the area was shaken by a 6.1-magnitude earthquake that injured 17 people.

The area has some of the highest concentrations of Taiwan’s aboriginal population, with several of the island’s Indigenous tribes calling the county home .

The county government in Hualien released a list of people that had been hospitalized with injuries, which stood at 118 people as of midday Wednesday.

Across Taiwan, one building fell down entirely, in Changhua County on the west coast, and 15 buildings partially collapsed, Taiwan’s fire department said. Another 67 buildings were damaged. One of the partially collapsed structures was a warehouse in New Taipei City where four people were rescued, according to Taiwan’s Central News Agency. Another 12 were rescued at a separate New Taipei City building where the foundation sank into the ground.

Peggy Jiang, who manages The Good Kid, a children’s bookstore down the street from the partially collapsed Uranus Building in Hualien, said it was a good thing they had yet to open when the quake struck. The area is now blocked off by police and rescue vehicles. “Most people in Hualien are used to earthquakes,” she said. “But this one was particularly scary, many people ran in the street immediately afterward.”

Lin Jung, 36, who manages a shop selling sneakers in Hualien, said he had been at home getting ready to take his 16-month-old baby to a medical appointment when the earthquake struck. He said it felt at first like a series of small shocks, then “suddenly it turned to an intense earthquake shaking up and down.” The glass cover of a ceiling lamp fell and shattered. “All I could do was protect my baby.”

Chris Buckley ,  Paul Mozur ,  Meaghan Tobin and John Yoon

The earthquake damaged buildings and a highway in Hualien.

The magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck Taiwan on Wednesday damaged many buildings and a major highway in Hualien, a city on the eastern coast, and it knocked out power as it rocked the island.

Across Taiwan, the quake and its aftershocks caused one building to completely collapse and 15 others to partially collapse, according to Taiwan’s fire department. Sixty-seven other buildings sustained damage.

Two tall buildings in Hualien that sustained particularly extensive damage were at the center of the rescue efforts there. Most damage across the city was not life-threatening, said Huang Hsuan-wan, a reporter for a local news site.

Where buildings were reported damaged in Hualien City

“A lot of roads were blocked off. There are a lot of walls toppled over onto cars,” Derik du Plessis, 44, a South African resident of Hualien, said shortly after the earthquake. He described people rushing around the city to check on their houses and pick up their children. One of his friends lost her house, he said.

One of the damaged buildings in Hualien, a 10-story structure called the Uranus Building that housed a mix of homes and shops, was tilted over and appeared to be on the verge of collapse. Many of its residents managed to flee, but some were missing, said Sunny Wang, a journalist based in the city. Rescuers were trying to reach the basement, concerned that people might be trapped there.

Photographs of the initial damage in Hualien showed another building, a five-story structure, leaning to one side, with crushed motorcycles visible at the ground-floor level. Bricks had fallen off another high-rise, leaving cracks and holes in the walls.

The quake also set off at least nine landslides on Suhua Highway in Hualien, according to Taiwan’s Central News Agency, which said part of the road had collapsed.

Taiwan’s fire department said four people had been killed in the earthquake.

Across Taiwan, 40 flights have been canceled or delayed because of the earthquake, according to Taiwan’s Central Emergency Operation Center.

President Tsai Ing-wen visited Taiwan’s national emergency response center this morning, where she was briefed about the response efforts underway by members of the ministries of defense, transportation, economic affairs and agriculture, as well as the fire department.

A look at Taiwan’s strongest earthquakes.

The magnitude 7.4 earthquake that hit Taiwan on Wednesday morning was the strongest in 25 years, the island’s Central Weather Administration said.

At least four people died after the quake struck off Taiwan’s east coast, officials said.

Here’s a look back at some of the major earthquakes in modern Taiwanese history:

Taichung, 1935

Taiwan’s deadliest quake registered a magnitude of 7.1 and struck near the island’s west coast in April 1935, killing more than 3,200 people, according to the Central Weather Administration. More than 12,000 others were injured and more than 50,000 homes were destroyed or damaged.

Tainan, 1941

A magnitude 7.3 earthquake in December 1941, which struck southwestern Taiwan, caused several hundred deaths, the United States Geological Survey said.

Chi-Chi, 1999

A 7.6 magnitude earthquake in central Taiwan killed nearly 2,500 people in September 1999. The quake, which struck about 90 miles south-southwest of Taipei, was the second-deadliest in the island’s history, according to the U.S.G.S. and the Central Weather Administration. More than 10,000 people were injured and more than 100,000 homes were destroyed or damaged.

Yujing, 2016

A 6.4 magnitude earthquake in February 2016 caused a 17-story apartment complex in southwestern Taiwan to collapse, killing at least 114 people . The U.S.G.S. later said that 90 earthquakes of that scale or greater had occurred within 250 kilometers, or 155 miles, of that quake’s location over the previous 100 years.

Advertisement