Planning a visit to Tokyo and looking for the best things to do and see?
This list compiles 25 things you absolutely can’t miss on your Tokyo itinerary. You’ll find a bit of everything, from classic tourist attractions to the latest trends.
Tokyo, the capital of Japan since 1868, is a truly unique city. There’s no doubt about it. One of the characteristics that makes it the most incredible city in Japan (and perhaps the world) is its perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Amidst all the concrete, neon lights, and towering skyscrapers, you can find a green and tradition-rich heart.
What to see in Tokyo
Tokyo boasts beautiful traditional gardens like Shinjuku Gyoen and enormous parks like Yoyogi Park and Ueno Park. You can delve into ancient Japan by visiting Sensoji Temple in Asakusa or immerse yourself in anime and manga culture in the electronics district of Akihabara.
A Tokyo trip isn’t complete without experiencing its amazing cuisine: ramen, sushi, soba, gyoza, or the elegant traditional kaiseki cuisine. Did you know Tokyo holds the most Michelin stars globally?
Once you’ve chosen your ideal Tokyo neighborhood, it’s time to pack your itinerary with must-see sights.
Get ready to explore one of the most electrifying and visited places on Earth! Here are 25 things to see and do in Tokyo that you can’t miss.
1. Ueno Park
Ueno Park is located in the old central area of Tokyo, close to Asakusa (which can be reached on foot from the park), and is one of the largest and most famous parks in Tokyo.
After a nice relaxing walk among historical monuments and nature, you can visit some of the most important museums in Tokyo: the National Museum of Nature and Science, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum or the Tokyo National Museum.
Ueno Park is also one of the favorite places for Japanese people during the cherry blossom season, when friends and relatives gather to celebrate hanami (hana 花 means “flowers” and mi 見 stands for “to look”), which consists of organizing picnics on the lawns, celebrating with food and sake and admiring the sakura (the Japanese word for cherry blossoms).
2. Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue
Shibuya Crossing is one of the most photographed places in Tokyo by travelers from all over the world, with thousands of tourists visiting each day in search of the perfect shot.
You may have already heard about this intersection because of its unique feature: half a million people cross it every day! The sight of pedestrians crossing the street from every corner makes this intersection a must-see.
Recommended vantage points are on the first floor of Starbucks and at the top of MAGNET by Shibuya 109, the latter being higher up but with a paid entrance.
On Halloween, the intersection becomes a huge gathering of people in costume. The atmosphere is truly electrifying, but remember that you will find yourself in a crowd of people and it may be difficult to catch the last train back to your hotel (usually by midnight) and you will probably have to order a taxi, or otherwise wait for the first train the next morning.
In front of Shibuya JR Station, before the intersection, you will also find the famous statue of Hachiko, the dog who waited there for his owner for 9 years after his death. If you want to take a picture with your favorite four-legged hero (who doesn’t love Hachiko!?), arm yourself with a little patience, it will be a great souvenir to bring home!
3. Kappabashi District
The Kappabashi district is a paradise for culinary enthusiasts. It is located between the Ueno and Asakusa neighborhoods, and is famous for being a district entirely dedicated to the restaurant industry.
You will find everything a Japanese chef could dream of: bowls, plates, knives, and restaurant supplies, as well as the famous sampuru (from the English “sample”), the highly realistic reproductions of recipes and dishes that are displayed outside restaurants as menus, making it easier to choose what to order.
My tips: Being more focused on commerce than tourism, you will be able to find fantastic and authentic Japanese items to take home as souvenirs at a reasonable price.
4. Harajuku Shopping District
Harajuku is where the Japanese Kawaii culture was born and is considered the quintessential pop culture district. Fashion enthusiasts will find hundreds of boutiques to go shopping. The main street, Takeshita Dori, has become a must-see for teenagers in Tokyo, also thanks to the affordable prices of its stores. You will also find countless cafes and street food stalls (cotton candy, crepes, sweets, etc.). One of the most iconic neighborhoods in Tokyo.
The other two main streets in Harajuku are Omotesando and Meiji street, where you will find many fashion stores and shopping malls (including Tokyu Plaza, with its famous mirrored entrance).
5- Akihabara Electric Town
Akihabara, also known as Akiba, is certainly one of the most popular and unique neighborhoods in Tokyo. The district has become particularly famous for the presence of numerous electronics stores and shops for Otaku enthusiasts. Both Japanese and tourists from all over the world come here every day to purchase items related to video games, anime and manga, or to visit one of the famous Maid Cafes.
6. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: a (free) breathtaking view
You can’t leave Tokyo without first seeing it from above, especially at night! One of the most popular viewpoints is certainly the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku (West Exit), which at 202 meters high offers a breathtaking view.
My tips: Unlike other viewpoints, access to this building is completely free.
7. Sensoji Temple in Asakusa
The Sensoji Temple in Asakusa cannot be missing from your list of things to see in Tokyo. You have surely already seen the iconic photo of its Kaminarimon gate leading, through the Nakamise-dori street, to the temple.
If you want to get a taste of Japanese tradition, this is definitely the place to start. Along the Nakamise-dori you will find many souvenir shops, Japanese sweets and snacks. The Asakusa neighborhood is also full of authentic Japanese restaurants offering traditional dishes.
My tips: If you stay in this area, you can also reach the Ueno district and the Tokyo Skytree on foot.
8. Ghibli Art Museum in Mitaka
A must-see destination for all fans of Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli. Located within the Inokashira Park in the Mitaka district, at the entrance you will find a giant Totoro welcoming you, and you already feel like you’re in a fairy tale. Take half a day to fully enjoy the museum and every single detail (there are too many to count).
Inside you will also find a mini-cinema that screens a rotating and world-exclusive (you won’t find them anywhere else) series of short films produced by Studio Ghibli and Hayao Miyazaki.
My tips: Tickets are not available for purchase at the museum, but must be booked in advance.
9. Tsukiji Fish Market
The famous Tsukiji market was for many years the largest wholesale fish market in the world. Perhaps you’ve heard of the famous tuna auctions? Now the auctions have moved to the new Toyosu market, also in Tokyo.
However, the Tsukiji market has remained open, preserving its charm, and remains one of the most interesting destinations when visiting Tokyo, especially for Japanese cuisine enthusiasts. Inside you can still find hundreds of restaurants and kitchen utensil shops. From Tsukiji you can also walk to the upscale Ginza district.
10. Omoide Yokocho
For a truly authentic experience, you absolutely must have an evening in one of the characteristic alleys full of bars and small restaurants (Izakaya). Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku is certainly one of the most characteristic streets where you can try this unique experience and live a 100% Japanese evening.
Bonus tips: Japanese Izakayas are usually very small and mainly serve drinks accompanied by snacks or grilled skewers.
11. Odaiba
Odaiba, south of Tokyo, is the famous district located on a completely artificial island. This district is an incredible entertainment destination for both locals and tourists, with its numerous shopping centers, restaurants and museums.
Among the most famous museums you can find the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan).
Odaiba also hosts the famous Gundam statue, replicated in 1:1 scale, at a height of 19.7 meters.
12. Sumo Training Sessions
Did you know that Sumo is a national sport in Japan? If you want to participate in one of Tokyo’s most important cultural activities, go to one of the many public halls, especially in the Ryogoku area near Asakusa, to watch the morning training of the athletes.
13. Tokyo Tower
Located in the Shiba-kōen district (near Roppongi), the Tokyo Tower is not very popular, especially compared to the Tokyo Skytree, but in my opinion it has a certain charm. Even if you decide not to go up to the top to observe the metropolis from above, it’s worth seeing it from a distance. One Piece anime fans can’t miss the official store and the Mugiwara Cafe inside.
14. Lose your breath on Sibuya Sky
Admire one of the most breathtaking 360-degree views of Tokyo from Shibuya Sky. Located in the Shibuya Crossing skies, the Shibuya Sky observatory is 230 meters high. Rest on the hammocks watching the clouds go by or lose your gaze on the horizon. On the clearest days, if you’re lucky, you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance.
Bonus tips: The admission price for adults aged 18 and over is ¥2000, while children aged 3 to 5 pay ¥500. You can also buy tickets in advance through the official Shibuya Crossing website and get a discount of up to ¥200. Persons with disabilities are entitled to a half-price ticket.
15. Cat Cafe
Did you know that in Japan there are cafes where you can enjoy a cup of coffee in the company of adorable cats? A true paradise for lovers of our four-legged friends. These cafes are scattered all over Tokyo and I recommend them as an afternoon stop, if you want to rest after a day of walking through museums and temples.
Bonus tips: Animal-themed cafes are very popular in Japan and, among the many, you can also find cafes dedicated to owls and hedgehogs.
16. Ryokan Experience
A trip to Japan cannot be considered complete without at least one overnight stay in a ryokan, the traditional Japanese “hotels.” Although Tokyo offers a myriad of hotels to stay in, it is still possible to find historic ryokan-style accommodations where you can experience an authentic Japanese experience.
The atmosphere of the ryokans is very serene and welcoming, and it is an excellent opportunity to get a close-up look at Japan of the past.
17. Japanese Gardens
As unbelievable as it may seem, Tokyo has many hidden green areas between the expansive urban areas. If you love the art of Japanese gardens, the metropolis will not disappoint you. The most famous are the Shinjuku Gyoen garden and the Rikugien garden, both located in the heart of Tokyo. Here you can enjoy relaxing walks immersed in nature.
Bonus Advice: The appearance of the gardens and parks in Tokyo changes with the seasons, but they remain beautiful throughout the year. The most recommended seasons are certainly spring (between March and April) for the cherry blossom flowering and autumn (between November and December) for the red leaves.
18. Eat Ramen
Ramen is to Japan what pizza is to Italians. One of the most beloved dishes by the Japanese, and certainly one of the most famous in the world along with sushi. Ramen comes in many variations and can be found practically everywhere in Tokyo. Only in Shinjuku, you can find over 300 ramen shops.
My advice: Usually the ramen shops are very narrow and offer few seats, but being a dish considered fast food, you shouldn’t have any trouble sitting down quickly, even when there’s a line.
Bonus advice: Don’t be scared if your neighbor noisily slurps his ramen! In Japan, “slurping,” that is, the suction of the noodles, is a normal practice that allows you to fully enjoy all the flavors of the ramen. You should try it!
19. Try an authentic Green Tea Ceremony
You have certainly heard about and probably already tasted matcha tea. While it is possible to purchase matcha or classic Japanese green tea online and prepare it at home, participating in an authentic tea ceremony in Japan is an experience absolutely worth trying.
During the ceremony, you will witness the preparation of the tea in all its steps, with traditional Japanese tools. Witnessing the mastery and care with which the tea is prepared is a unique experience in itself.
There’s nothing better than enjoying an excellent matcha prepared with artistry, accompanied by delicious traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi). To make the experience even more authentic, many organizers allow you to wear the yukata (the traditional Japanese garment).
20. Lose yourself in a Don Quijote
During your trip to Tokyo, you’ll have a wide choice of snacks and souvenirs to bring home. If you can’t choose, visit one of the many Don Quijote stores, present all over Tokyo.
In this store, you’ll live the ultimate shopping experience, as you can find practically everything! From cosmetics to electronics, from Japanese snacks to household items, you’ll also find traditional or fun souvenirs here.
Bonus advice: In Shibuya, you can find the MEGA DONKI, a 7-story building, open 24 hours a day.
21. Daiso: everything for 100 yen!
It is also worth mentioning one of the most famous souvenir shopping chains: Daiso. This is a chain with stores scattered throughout Tokyo where you can find everything for 100 yen, the equivalent of the “everything for 1 euro” stores present in Italy.
Bonus advice: If you want to stock up on souvenirs while saving money, I recommend making a stop at Daiso.
22. Shopping in Shimokitazawa
The Shimokitazawa neighborhood is less well-known compared to the famous Shinjuku and Shibuya, but it is still worth mentioning. There are many ways to describe this neighborhood: bohemian, hippie, artistic, indie, and hipster.
Shimokitaza is the famous secondhand district. Clothes, books, vinyl, and much more, all strictly second-hand (but in excellent condition). You’ll also find lots of cafes and restaurants here to enjoy a break between shops. I strongly recommend this neighborhood, especially if you want to take a look at a more “artistic” and alternative Tokyo.
23. Yayoi’s Kusama Museum
After visiting various museums, some of Yayoi Kusama’s most famous polka dot works have finally found a home. A museum entirely dedicated to the Japanese artist was finally opened in Tokyo in 2017.
Bonus advice: Tickets must be purchased in advance, and they can only be purchased online starting on the first day of each month, two months in advance of the visit.
24. Sing at Karaoke
Karaoke can be found everywhere in Tokyo, just take a look around as you walk through the most famous neighborhoods and you won’t have any trouble spotting the sign: カラオケ (karaoke).
The two most famous (and most expensive) chains are Karaoke-kan (カラオケ館) and Big Echo. Prices can vary between weekdays and weekends. Most karaoke bars have tablets where you can also select the English language.
Karaoke is one of the favorite activities of the Japanese, which is why I believe it is essential to mention it in this list, especially if you like the idea of being able to sing your favorite songs out loud in a soundproof booth without fear of being judged!
25. Onsen Experience
If you’re traveling to Tokyo and don’t have time to explore the more rural areas of Japan, you can still experience a traditional Japanese onsen, or hot spring.
My recommendation: In Tokyo, my favorite onsen is “Niwa no Yu” in Nerima, which can be reached by taking the Oedo line or the Seibu Toshima to the Toshimaen station. The onsen is divided into a male and female area (here you enter without clothes), and has a common area with a pool (with swimsuit), jacuzzi, and Finnish sauna.
The jacuzzi overlooks a beautiful Japanese “zen” garden. Unfortunately, access is not permitted for those with tattoos.
Check out my Comprehensive Tokyo Guide for a better exploration of the whole city <–
What are the best things to do in Tokyo?
There are so many things I would recommend seeing in Tokyo. In short, the most beautiful things I’ve done in Tokyo and that I believe cannot be missed on your itinerary the first time you visit include the panoramic view from the Tokyo Skytree (at 451 meters in height), the Ueno and Asakusa neighborhoods, the former for the park and the latter for the Senso-ji temple.
Then the Meiji Shrine located in Yoyogi Park, the nerdy and electronics district of Akihabara, and the Shibuya and Shinjuku neighborhoods to visit in the evening, the former famous for the largest and busiest pedestrian crossing in the world and the Hachiko statue, and the latter for its nightlife.
How many days are needed to visit Tokyo?
If you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time and want to see the most important things, you’ll need at least 4-5 days.
But you can come back to Tokyo every year for a week, for the rest of your life, and still not be able to see it all! Not to mention that the metropolis is constantly changing: for every restaurant and shop that closes, just as many new ones open every day.
How much does it cost per day in Tokyo?
The budget for visiting Tokyo depends on the type of vacation you want to have. The estimated cost for a day in Tokyo, including accommodation and meals, is around 100-150€ per person.
If you visit Tokyo with the aim of spending as little as possible, you could get by spending around 45-70€ per day (everything included), perhaps by staying in a hostel with a shared dormitory (around 25-30€), eating at the most economical chains (like Yoshinoya, for 5-10€ per meal) and using only the Yamanote line (consider at least 5-10€ per day).
Conclusion
When it comes to deciding what to see in Tokyo, I’ve always found myself spoiled for choice and with little time to do everything. My advice, especially if you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time, is to follow the Yamanote Line (train) stops to start mapping out a mental map and organize your time.
Despite everything being very well connected, many of the sights I’ve listed are at stations outside the Yamanote, and in some cases you’ll need to take the subway.
Don’t overdo it if you have few days available. Regardless of the attractions you choose to see, I’m sure you’ll love the journey through the most incredible metropolis in the world.
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