Tokyo Tourist Spots: Top Things to Do in Tokyo
Explore Tokyo’s vibrant and eclectic city, Japan’s lively capital, where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge innovation. Lose yourself in the enchanting blend of old and new as you wander through Tokyo tourist spots like the Meiji Shrine and the awe-inspiring Senso-ji Temple. Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure, savoring mouthwatering dishes like sushi, ramen, tempura, and yakitori.
Dive into the hustle and bustle of the renowned Tsukiji Fish Market, where fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere collide. Discover the fashion-forward neighborhoods of Shibuya and Harajuku, where style and shopping reign supreme. Unwind amidst the tranquil gardens of the Imperial Palace or find solace in one of Tokyo’s many serene parks. And for the tech enthusiasts, Akihabara awaits, tantalizing with its wide range of electronics and anime-themed treasures.
With an efficient public transportation system at your fingertips, navigating this captivating metropolis is a breeze. Immerse yourself in Tokyo’s unmatched blend of ancient customs and modern marvels, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Historical Landmarks
Tokyo is a city with a rich history, and there are several historical landmarks worth visiting. Here are some of the most popular:
Edo-Tokyo Museum
The Edo-Tokyo Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Tokyo. The museum showcases the history and culture of Edo, the old name for Tokyo, and the city’s transformation into the modern metropolis it is today. Visitors can see exhibits on everything from Samurai swords to Japanese architecture.
Sensoji Temple
Sensoji Temple is the oldest and most famous temple in Tokyo. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and features a stunning Shinto Shrine. Visitors can also participate in traditional rituals, such as omikuji (fortune telling) and o-mairi (prayer).
Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace is the residence of the Emperor of Japan and is located in the heart of Tokyo. While the palace is not open to the public, visitors can tour the surrounding gardens and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The palace is a great place to learn about the history of Japan and its emperors.
Meiji Shrine
The Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It is located in a beautiful forested area in the heart of Tokyo and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can participate in traditional rituals, such as writing wishes on ema (wooden plaques) and making offerings at the shrine.
Cultural Experiences
Tokyo is rich in culture, with many ways to experience it. Here are some of the best cultural experiences that Tokyo has to offer.
Kabuki Theater
Kabuki is a traditional form of Japanese theater that dates back to the 17th century. It is known for its elaborate costumes, makeup, and dramatic performances. The Kabuki-za Theater in Tokyo is among the best places to see Kabuki performances. The theater has a long history and has been a center for Kabuki performances since it was first built in 1889. Visitors can watch a Kabuki performance and experience the unique atmosphere of this traditional Japanese art form.
Ghibli Museum
Studio Ghibli is a world-famous animation studio known for its beautiful and imaginative films. The Ghibli Museum in Tokyo is a must-visit destination for fans of the studio’s work. The museum features exhibits on animation history and original artwork from Ghibli films. Visitors can also watch short films exclusive to the museum and explore the beautiful gardens surrounding it.
Tokyo National Museum
The Tokyo National Museum is one of Japan’s largest and most comprehensive museums. It has a vast collection of Japanese art and artifacts, including Buddhist scrolls, pottery, calligraphy, and kimono. The museum also has many exhibits on Japanese history and culture. Visitors can spend hours exploring the museum’s many galleries and learning about the rich cultural heritage of Japan.
Modern Attractions
Tokyo is a city that seamlessly blends the old and the new, especially evident in its modern attractions. From towering skyscrapers to bustling intersections, Tokyo has no shortage of things to see and do. Here are some of the top modern attractions in the city.
Tokyo Skytree
The Tokyo Skytree is one of the most iconic landmarks in Tokyo. This towering structure stands 634 meters tall and offers breathtaking city views. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the Skytree and enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo. Several restaurants and shops are also inside the Skytree, making it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.
Shibuya Crossing
The Shibuya Crossing is one of the busiest intersections in the world. Located in the heart of Tokyo’s Shibuya district, this intersection sees thousands of pedestrians cross daily. Visitors can watch the chaos unfold from one of the many surrounding buildings or join in the fun and cross the intersection themselves. The Shibuya Crossing is a must-see for anyone visiting Tokyo.
Odaiba
Odaiba is a man-made island located in Tokyo Bay. This futuristic district has many attractions, including the Oedo Onsen Monogatari hot springs, the Miraikan Science Museum, and the Gundam statue. Visitors can also enjoy shopping at the many malls and boutiques located on the island. Odaiba is a great place to spend a day exploring the cutting-edge side of Tokyo.
TeamLab Borderless
TeamLab Borderless is an immersive digital art museum in Tokyo’s Odaiba district. This museum features interactive exhibits that use light, sound, and technology to create stunning visual displays. Visitors can interact with the exhibits and become part of the art themselves. TeamLab Borderless is a one-of-a-kind experience that is not to be missed.
Shopping and Fashion
Tokyo is the fashion capital of Japan, and shopping is one of the most popular things to do in the city. From high-end luxury brands to trendy streetwear, Tokyo has it all. Here are some of the best shopping districts in Tokyo:
Ginza
Ginza is Tokyo’s most famous shopping district, known for its luxury stores and high-end boutiques. Here, you can find everything from designer clothing to high-end electronics. The area is home to some of the world’s most famous brands, including Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton. The streets of Ginza are lined with upscale department stores, such as Mitsukoshi and Matsuya, as well as smaller boutiques and specialty shops.
Harajuku
Harajuku is a trendy district known for its unique fashion and streetwear. The area is home to many small boutiques, vintage shops, and larger stores like WEGO and Takeshita-dori. The Harajuku district is a popular destination for young people looking for the latest fashion trends. The area is also home to the famous Harajuku Station and Omote-Sando, a bustling street lined with shops and cafes.
Shibuya District
Shibuya is one of the busiest shopping districts in Tokyo, with many large department stores and shopping centers. The area is home to the famous Shibuya Crossing, a busy intersection often featured in movies and television shows. Shibuya is also home to many trendy fashion boutiques, streetwear shops, and popular electronics stores like Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera.
Akihabara
Akihabara is the go-to destination for electronics and anime fans. The area has many electronics stores, selling everything from computers to cameras to video games. Akihabara is also known for its anime and manga shops, selling various merchandise and collectibles. The area is famous for tourists looking to experience Tokyo’s unique otaku culture.
Parks and Gardens
Tokyo is home to some of the world’s most beautiful parks and gardens. From traditional Japanese gardens to sprawling urban parks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular parks and gardens in Tokyo.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a stunning oasis in the heart of Tokyo. This park has over 20,000 trees, including cherry blossoms, maples, and ginkgo trees. Visitors can stroll through traditional Japanese, French, and English gardens. There is also a greenhouse with a wide variety of tropical plants. This park is a popular spot for picnics, relaxing, and enjoying the beauty of nature.
Ueno Park
Ueno Park is one of the most popular parks in Tokyo. This park is home to several museums, including the Tokyo National Museum, the National Museum of Nature and Science, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum. There is also a zoo, a lake, and several temples and shrines. The park is filled with people enjoying hanami or cherry blossom viewing parties during cherry blossom season.
Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park is a popular spot for picnics, sports, and people-watching. This park is home to several forested areas, including a beautiful cedar forest. Visitors can also enjoy a large pond, a shrine, and walking paths. The park is filled with street performers, musicians, and other entertainers on weekends.
Food and Cuisine
Tokyo is a food lover’s paradise, offering various cuisines that cater to different tastes. The city is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, serving traditional Japanese dishes and international cuisine. Here are some of the must-visit places for foodies in Tokyo.
Tsukiji Market
Tsukiji Market is a famous seafood market in Tokyo, known for its fresh and high-quality seafood. The market is the world’s largest wholesale fish and seafood market, and it is a popular destination for tourists. Visitors can explore the market and try out some of the fresh seafood dishes at the restaurants and food stalls located inside the market.
Toyosu Market
Toyosu Market is the new seafood market in Tokyo, which replaced Tsukiji Market in 2018. The market is a state-of-the-art facility that offers visitors a unique experience of the seafood industry in Japan. Visitors can watch the tuna auction, which takes place early in the morning, and then explore the market to try out some of the fresh seafood dishes.
Tokyo is famous for its sushi, ramen, and tempura. However, there are many other Japanese cuisines that visitors should try out during their stay in Tokyo. Some of the popular Japanese cuisines include udon, soba, yakitori, and okonomiyaki. Visitors can also try some international cuisines, such as Italian, French, and Chinese, which are available in Tokyo.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Tokyo is a city that never sleeps and is well-known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment options. From traditional Japanese bars to modern clubs, there is something for everyone. This section will explore some of the best entertainment and nightlife spots in Tokyo.
Golden Gai
Golden Gai is a small Shinjuku area famous for its narrow alleys and small bars. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists, offering a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else in Tokyo. The bars in Golden Gai are small and intimate, offering a chance to socialize with locals and other travelers. Some bars have a cover charge, but the prices for drinks are reasonable.
Roppongi
Roppongi is a popular entertainment district in Tokyo known for its nightlife. It is home to many bars, nightclubs, and restaurants and a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The area has a reputation for being expensive, but many affordable options are also available. One of the most popular nightclubs in Roppongi is V2 Tokyo, known for its electronic music and energetic atmosphere.
Gaming Arcades
Gaming arcades are a popular form of entertainment in Tokyo, offering a chance to experience Japanese culture uniquely. Many gaming arcades are located throughout the city, and they offer a wide range of games, from traditional arcade games to modern video games. Some of Tokyo’s most popular gaming arcades include Sega Akihabara Building 2, Taito Station Shinjuku East Exit, and Club Sega Shinjuku.
Tokyo also has a unique form of entertainment not found in many other cities: go-karting on public roads. This activity has become popular among tourists in recent years, and it offers a chance to see the city uniquely. However, it is important to note that go-karting on public roads is not legal in Japan, and those participating do so at their own risk.
Religious Sites and Practices
Tokyo is home to several religious sites and practices that are worth exploring. The city is a fascinating mix of the traditional and the modern, and this is reflected in its religious sites and practices. Here are two of the most popular ones:
Meiji Jingu
Meiji Jingu is a Shinto shrine located in Shibuya. It was built in honor of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, who played a significant role in the modernization of Japan. The shrine is surrounded by a forest of over 100,000 trees donated by people from all over Japan. The trees were planted between 1912 and 1920, and today, they provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
Visitors to Meiji Jingu can participate in traditional Shinto practices, such as writing wishes on wooden plaques called ema and tying them to a designated area. They can also purify themselves by washing their hands and mouth at a water pavilion called temizuya. The shrine is open from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free.
Asakusa District
Asakusa is a district in Tokyo that is known for its traditional atmosphere. It is home to Sens?-Ji, a Buddhist temple built in the 7th century. The temple is dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon and is one of Tokyo’s most popular tourist attractions.
Visitors to Sens?-Ji can explore the temple grounds, which include a five-story pagoda, a large incense burner, and a shopping street called Nakamise-dori. The shopping street is lined with shops that sell traditional Japanese souvenirs, such as fans, kimonos, and chopsticks.
Asakusa is also home to several Shinto shrines, including Asakusa Shrine and Sanja Shrine. Asakusa Shrine is next to Senso-Ji and is dedicated to the three men who founded the temple. Sanja Shrine is a short walk from Sens?-Ji and is dedicated to the three men who founded the city of Edo, which later became Tokyo.
Outdoor Activities
Tokyo has plenty of exciting outdoor activities for tourists to enjoy. From Sumida River cruises to go-karting in Akihabara, there is something for everyone.
Sumida River Cruises
A Sumida River cruise is a great way to explore Tokyo from a different perspective. These cruises take you through the heart of the city, allowing you to see some of Tokyo’s most famous landmarks. The cruises are available in different packages, with some including meals and drinks.
Go-Karting in Akihabara
For those looking for a more adventurous outdoor activity, go-karting in Akihabara is a must-try experience. Tourists can rent go-karts and drive around the streets of Tokyo while wearing costumes. It is a unique and thrilling way to see the city.
Tourists can also use Tokyo’s extensive rail system to explore many outdoor attractions. From parks to sports fields, Tokyo has no shortage of places to enjoy outdoor activities.
Festivals and Events
Tokyo is a city that never sleeps, with something always happening. Festivals and events are a big part of the cultural scene in Tokyo, and there is always something to see and do. Here are some of the best festivals and events to visit in Tokyo.
Sumo Wrestling Tournaments
Sumo wrestling is a traditional Japanese sport that has been around for centuries. It is a fascinating sport, with two wrestlers facing off in a ring and trying to push each other out of bounds. If you’re interested in seeing sumo wrestling in Tokyo, several tournaments are held throughout the year. The biggest and most famous is the Grand Sumo Tournament, held in January, May, and September at the Ryogoku Kokugikan Arena in Tokyo.
Local Matsuri Festivals
Matsuri are traditional Japanese festivals held yearly, usually at local shrines and temples. They are a great way to experience Japanese culture and traditions. Some of Tokyo’s most popular matsuri festivals include the Sanja Matsuri in May, the Kanda Matsuri in May, and the Sanno Matsuri in June. These festivals feature parades, music, food stalls, and other traditional Japanese activities.
Unique Tokyo Experiences
Tokyo is a vast and complex city with a seemingly endless array of things to see and do. There are plenty of options for those looking for unique experiences beyond the top attractions. Here are a few suggestions for those looking to experience Tokyo differently.
Kichijoji Walking Tours
Kichijoji is a charming neighborhood in western Tokyo that is often overlooked by tourists. However, it is a great place to explore on foot, with plenty of interesting shops, restaurants, and cafes to discover. One option is to take a guided walking tour of the area, which can be a great way to learn about the history and culture of Kichijoji. Some tours may even include visits to local art galleries or museums, where visitors can see paintings, artifacts, and other unique items.
Nakamise Dori Shopping
Nakamise Dori is a shopping street located in the Asakusa neighborhood of Tokyo. It is known for its traditional Japanese souvenirs, such as swords, fans, and kimonos. Visitors can also find various food items, including raw seafood and sweets. One unique aspect of Nakamise Dori is using the Suica card, a rechargeable smart card that can be used to pay for purchases at many shops and restaurants in the area.
Travel Tips and Information
Public Transportation
Tokyo has an extensive public transportation system that is efficient, reliable, and easy to navigate. The city’s subway system is one of the most extensive in the world and the best way to get around the city. Visitors can purchase a Suica card, a prepaid card used on trains, buses, and subways. The card can be bought at train stations and recharged as needed.
In addition to the subway system, Tokyo also has an extensive bus network. Buses are a great way to get around the city, especially for visitors who want to see the sights. Visitors can purchase a one-day pass, which allows them to ride the bus as much as they want for a day.
Accommodation Options
Tokyo offers various accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Visitors can choose from luxury hotels, budget hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. The city has several international chain hotels and traditional Japanese inns called Ryokans.
For visitors who want to experience Japan’s unique culture, staying in a ryokan is a great option. Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that offer guests a unique experience. They typically have tatami-mat rooms communal baths, and serve traditional Japanese meals.
Visitors should consider the location and proximity to public transportation when choosing accommodation. Staying in a central location will make getting around the city and seeing the sights easier. Some popular areas to stay in Tokyo include Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ginza.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top attractions to visit in Tokyo?
Tokyo is a city that has something for everyone. Some of the top attractions that you must visit include the Tokyo Skytree, the Imperial Palace, the Meiji Shrine, and the Sensoji Temple. You can also spend a day at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea, or visit the famous Tsukiji Fish Market.
How can one experience the futuristic side of Tokyo?
To experience the futuristic side of Tokyo, head to the Odaiba area. This man-made island is home to some of the most futuristic and modern buildings in the city. You can also visit the famous Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku, which features a robot show that is sure to leave you amazed.
What are the best family-friendly activities in Tokyo?
Tokyo has plenty of family-friendly activities that both kids and adults will enjoy. You can visit the Ueno Zoo, the Tokyo Dome City amusement park, or the KidZania Tokyo indoor theme park. You can also take a day trip to the Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea.
Can you recommend some anime-related places to visit in Tokyo?
Anime lovers will be spoilt for choice in Tokyo. Some of the must-visit anime-related places include the Ghibli Museum, the Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo, and the Tokyo One Piece Tower. You can also visit Akihabara, which is known as the “Electric Town” and is home to many anime and manga stores.
What are some interesting day trip options from Tokyo?
There are many interesting day trip options from Tokyo. You can visit the historic city of Kamakura, the hot springs town of Hakone, or the beautiful Nikko National Park. You can also take a trip to Mount Fuji, which is the highest mountain in Japan.
Is a two-day itinerary sufficient to see the highlights of Tokyo?
While Tokyo has a lot to offer, a two-day itinerary is enough to see some of the highlights of the city. You can visit the Tokyo Skytree, the Sensoji Temple, the Meiji Shrine, and the Imperial Palace. You can also take a day trip to nearby attractions like Kamakura or Nikko National Park.
Tokyo City Travel and Tour Packages
Check out our list of affordable Shibuya City hotels and resorts via Agoda and Booking, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
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