Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, offers an array of experiences that cater to every kind of traveller.
Exploring Tokyo thoroughly can be an unforgettable journey filled with diverse attractions, neighbourhoods, and cuisine.
Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or an adventure seeker aiming to discover new locales and outdoor activities, Tokyo has something for everyone.
Planning to visit? Check out these things to do in Tokyo for an unforgettable trip. 🗼
- 1-Day Tokyo Bus Tour
- Official Street Go-Kart Tour – Tokyo Bay Shop
- Tokyo Private Sightseeing Tour by English Speaking Chauffeur
- Tokyo Studio Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Film Appreciation Tour
- Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket
Need a place to stay? 🏢 Here are some great options:
Historical Overview
Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, has a rich history that dates back centuries.
As you explore this cosmopolitan city, you’ll discover its fascinating past, from its humble beginnings as a small fishing village named Edo to its growth into a world-renowned metropolis.
A significant turning point in Tokyo’s history was the establishment of the Tokugawa shogunate in the early 1600s.
This period marked the beginning of the Edo era, during which the city became the political centre of Japan.
Edo rapidly grew under the shogunate’s rule, transforming from a quiet fishing village into a thriving metropolis with a population exceeding one million by the late 19th century.
Tokyo’s history has its share of hardships, including natural disasters and war.
The city, positioned on low alluvial plains and adjacent upland hills, has faced several devastating earthquakes, the most notable being the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923.
Despite these challenges, Tokyo continuously rebuilds itself, emerging stronger and more resilient each time.
Famous Landmarks
Most people will fly into either Narita Airport or Haneda Airport.
After a day or two, you’ll want to go sightseeing.
Tokyo Tower
In Tokyo, visiting the iconic Tokyo Tower should be on your list of things to do.
This 333-meter-tall tower was constructed in 1958 and serves as a radio and television antenna broadcasting tower.
The tower is modelled after Paris’ Eiffel Tower and offers an unforgettable observatory experience.
When you visit, you can take an elevator to the two observation decks, which provide stunning panoramic views of Tokyo.
Tokyo Skytree
Another prominent landmark in Tokyo is the Tokyo Skytree.
Standing at 634 meters, it is the tallest tower in Japan.
The tower features two observation decks to enjoy unparalleled city views.
Moreover, the tower has a shopping mall and an aquarium at its base, offering various entertainment options for your visit.
Sensoji Temple
For a more spiritual experience, consider visiting the historic Sensoji Temple.
Asakusa’s most famous temple dates back to the 7th century, making it the oldest temple in Tokyo.
During your visit, take a stroll through the temple grounds and admire the well-preserved architecture.
Try some Monjayaki in one of the nearby restaurants.
Imperial Palace
Another historical site to explore is the Imperial Palace, which is surrounded by lush gardens and moats.
This site serves as the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan and is a symbol of Japan’s cultural heritage.
Although the palace buildings are not open to the public, you can visit the gardens and witness ancient and modern architecture co-existing harmoniously.
Shibuya Crossing
This place is popular but not so special.
It’s just a busy crossing.
That’s all!
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
This Government Building is a landmark skyscraper located in Shinjuku, Tokyo.
It serves as the headquarters of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and is a popular tourist destination.
Visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck on the 45th floor, which offers stunning cityscape views, including Tokyo Tower and Mount Fuji, on a clear day.
The building’s unique design features two towers with a distinctive triangular shape that tapers towards the top.
The building also houses various government offices and facilities, including a public library and conference rooms.
It is a must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts and anyone interested in Tokyo’s history and government.
Neighbourhood Exploration
Shinjuku
You’ll find a bustling atmosphere in Shinjuku filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment.
It’s one of the most exciting places in Tokyo’s city centre.
Start by visiting the iconic Shinjuku Station, the world’s busiest railway station.
Just steps away, you’ll find the vibrant shopping and entertainment district of Kabukicho, offering a glimpse of Japan’s nightlife.
Shibuya
Shibuya is home to the famous Shibuya Crossing mentioned above, this a must-visit spot on your Tokyo adventure.
As you navigate the bustling intersection, take in the energetic atmosphere and snap a photo or two.
JR Shibuya station is directly connected to the scramble.
In Shibuya is Omotesando.
This tree-lined avenue features modern and traditional architecture, including the famous Omotesando Hills shopping complex. V
visitors can also enjoy a variety of cafes, restaurants, and art galleries in the area
Odaiba
Odaiba is Tokyo’s entertainment and leisure destination in southern Tokyo, boasting numerous attractions suitable for all ages.
Spend a day exploring the various shopping malls, such as Aqua City and DiverCity Tokyo Plaza.
Be sure to visit the iconic Gundam Statue and the futuristic Odaiba Marine Park.
For a unique experience, visit the teamLab Borderless digital art museum, where you’ll be immersed in captivating interactive installations.
Akihabara
A haven for gaming and anime fans, Akihabara offers countless stores filled with gadgets, games, and merchandise.
Browse the sprawling Electric Town, where shops offer the latest electronics, retro game consoles, and collectables.
Be sure also to visit a maid café, a distinctly Japanese experience where you can enjoy a meal or drink served by waitresses dressed in maid costumes.
Yurakucho
Yurakucho is a district located in Chiyoda, Tokyo.
It is known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene, featuring a variety of restaurants, bars, and theatres.
The district also includes several shopping areas, including the Yurakucho Center Building and the Marui shopping mall.
This area is also famous for its train station, which features a unique brick facade and is a popular spot for photography.
Outdoor Activities
Tokyo offers a variety of outdoor activities, and some of the most popular ones are visiting its beautiful parks.
Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park is a spacious oasis in the heart of the city.
Despite the peaceful feel, it’s only 5 minutes from Harajuku station.
You can enjoy various activities such as jogging, cycling, or even practising yoga.
The park is particularly famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms during spring.
Be sure to visit during the cherry blossom season to experience the vibrant colours and festive atmosphere.
Inokashira Park
Inokashira Park is a popular green space in Tokyo. It has a large pond where people can rent boats. The park is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring.
There’s a small zoo and the Ghibli Museum nearby.
Many people come here to relax, have picnics, or watch street performers.
The park also has a shrine dedicated to Benzaiten, a Japanese goddess. It’s a nice place to escape the busy city and enjoy nature.
The park opened in 1917 and remained a favourite spot for locals and tourists.
Ueno Park and Zoo
This is another popular destination for outdoor activities in Tokyo.
It houses several museums, temples, and the famous Ueno Zoo.
The park is great for viewing cherry blossoms, boasting over 1,000 cherry trees.
Keep an eye out for the vibrant flowers, which usually bloom between late March and early April.
At the Ueno Zoo, you can witness various animals, including pandas, elephants, and aquatic creatures.
It’s an ideal destination for a fun and educational family outing.
Culinary Experiences
Tokyo is a paradise for Japanese food lovers, offering various cuisines and dining experiences.
Cultural Visits
Asakusa
This neighbourhood is well-known in downtown Tokyo and is famous for its historical charm and bustling atmosphere.
When in Asakusa, make sure to visit Sensō-ji, a beautiful temple mentioned earlier in the article
The charming Nakamise shopping street leading up to the temple offers a variety of traditional goods and tasty treats, allowing you to immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
Meiji Shrine
The Meiji Shrine is another must-visit cultural attraction in Tokyo.
This Shinto shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife.
It’s surrounded by a forest, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful break from the busy city.
Stroll along the tree-lined paths, and don’t forget to cleanse yourself at the purification fountain before entering the shrine’s grounds.
Ghibli Museum
For fans of Japanese animation, the Ghibli Museum is a dream come true.
Dedicated to Studio Ghibli’s works, this museum offers a unique insight into the creative process behind some of the world’s most beloved animated films, such as “My Neighbor Totoro” and “Spirited Away.”
Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as they can be hard to come by due to the museum’s popularity.
Tokyo National Museum
This is one of the most important cultural institutions in Japan.
It is located in Ueno Park and houses one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive collections of Japanese art and artefacts.
The museum’s collection includes over 110,000 pieces, including ancient pottery, Buddhist sculptures, samurai swords, and traditional textiles.
Visitors can explore the museum’s many galleries and exhibitions, which showcase Japan’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Entertainment Scene
Tokyo is known for its vibrant entertainment scene.
When the sun sets, you can experience the city’s bustling nightlife, which offers a range of bars and clubs that suit different tastes.
Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind after a long day or get lost in the energetic vibes of the night, Tokyo has got you covered.
Roppongi
This is one of Tokyo’s most popular nightlife districts, offering various entertainment venues, including large and tiny bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore.
If you’re interested in experiencing Tokyo’s authentic nightlife atmosphere, Roppongi is the place to be.
From high-end clubs to casual street-side bars, you’ll find something that caters to your preferences.
Be prepared for the late-night crowds and stay safe while enjoying your night out in this lively district.
Shinjuku Golden Gai
Shinjuku Golden Gai is a small, historic nightlife district located in Shinjuku, Tokyo.
The area is known for its narrow alleys and small, intimate bars, many of which can only accommodate a few patrons at a time.
The district has a unique atmosphere, with many bars featuring vintage decor and playing a variety of music genres.
Visitors can enjoy a drink and conversation with locals and other travellers, making it a popular spot for those looking for an authentic Tokyo nightlife experience.
Tokyo Disney Resort
Tokyo Disney Resort is a popular theme park located in Japan.
It features two theme parks, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, and several hotels and shopping areas.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of rides, shows, and attractions, including classic Disney favourites like Space Mountain and It’s a Small World.
As well as unique experiences like the Indiana Jones Adventure and the Journey to the Center of the Earth.
The park is known for its attention to detail and immersive theming, making it a must-visit destination for Disney fans and theme park enthusiasts alike.
Shopping Spots
Tokyo is a shopper’s paradise with countless districts offering unique shopping experiences.
This section will explore two iconic shopping areas: Ginza and Harajuku.
Ginza
Ginza is the affluent shopping district in Tokyo, known for its posh boutiques and gleaming department stores.
Here, you can find everything from high-end fashion to cutting-edge electronics.
The classic Mitsukoshi and avant-garde Dover Street Market Ginza are just a few examples of the shopping opportunities available in this area.
Harajuku
This area is known for Tokyo’s vibrant youth culture, which is filled with quirky boutiques and colourful shops.
You can expect to find fashion-forward items, trendy accessories, and eclectic styles that cater to a wide range of tastes.
Planning Your Trip
Visiting Tokyo can be an unforgettable experience, with countless things to do and places to visit.
To make the most out of your trip, it’s essential to plan.
Begin with researching the top attractions on your Tokyo bucket list.
Research the best times for your preferred activities and any festivals or events that might be happening during your stay.
By thoroughly planning your Tokyo adventure, you’re setting yourself up for a trip filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories.
Before You Go
Tokyo, Japan, is a brilliant city worth visiting.
You will not be able to see all the attractions in Tokyo, so plan well.
But also, do not be afraid to be spontaneous.
Pop into a local izakaya, sample some black sesame ice cream, spend one night in a capsule hotel; it is all so much fun.
While central Tokyo can be overwhelming at first, Japan is safe, and you’ll have a wonderful time.
