Experiences you can only get in Japan
Japan is considered to be one of the most interesting and fascinating countries in the world. Thanks to the quirky places you can visit, the unique foods you can eat, and the one-of-a-kind experiences you can enjoy, your time in Tokyo will be all the more unique.
Depending on your interests, budget, and the length of your stay in Tokyo, there are countless things to do that are exclusive to this city, which is why we’ve tried to narrow it down to just some of our one-of-a-kind favourites.
Here are the top 18 things to do in Tokyo that you absolutely must try.
1. Get your cute on at Sanrio Puroland
Don’t miss out on Tokyo’s signature theme park; it attracts about 2 million visitors every year.
No other country does “cute” quite like Japan, and when it comes to kawaii, Sanrio is king, or is it Queen?
This absolute wonderland is located just a half-hour train ride from Shinjuku station. Sanrio Puroland is an indoor theme park that is perfect in any weather. It’s the number one destination for all things Hello Kitty, My Melody, and everyone’s favourite lazy egg, Gudetama. The park is big enough to entertain guests for a full day, but not so large that you will miss out on anything on a day trip.
Drop by the gift shop for Sanrio goodies, so you can dress up like your favourite character. Credits to @purolandjp on Instagram
Sanrio Puroland is pure adorableness overload While a lot of the park focuses on Hello Kitty, there are areas dedicated to other fan favourites, as well as the Sanrio character boat ride where every character gets their time to shine.
Look forward to meet and greets and photo ops with life-sized mascots, which happen several times throughout the day. Kids and kids-at-heart will enjoy the fascinating performances that take place at the park, including acrobats and flying unicorns—yes, you read that right!
The food court is also definitely worth the visit. You’ll be greeted by a wide range of meals,desserts, and snacks that are almost too cute to eat. Every dish is simply Insta-worthy!
2. Join an all you can drink saké tour
If you’re touring alone, this is the best place to make new friends over drinks .
Sure, drinking saké is not unique to Tokyo, but an all-you-can-drink saké tour certainly is! With over 100 different types of saké to choose from, you can indulge in as many cups as you would like. Our advice? Jump on the group chat right now and inform the crew, because this is one all your friends will want to join in on.
Along with the booze, you will also be taught about the origins of saké and how it is produced. Don’t miss out on the chance to taste 100% authentic Japanese saké. This is a popular experience among tourists, so it’s best to book your spots as soon as possible!
3. Race through the streets with a go karting experience
Experience the popular Japanese game, Mario Kart in real life!
This attraction quickly became one of the top things to do in Tokyo after the internet was flooded with FOMO-inducing pics of people dressed in colourful onesies racing through the city’s streets.
Open to most people who hold a valid international driver’s licence, you can see the sights from right outside your window, while you’re going upto 60km/hour, while being led by a professional. The cosplay costumes are optional, but, come on, isn’t that all part of the fun?
There are a few different places to take part in the Go Karting experience in Tokyo, but Akihabara offers a few different packages to accommodate for any budget or time constraints.
4. Dare to ride record-breaking roller coasters
There’s also a Haunted Hotel and a prison escape themed-maze, the Ultimate Fort, for maximum thrills!
Are you an adrenaline junkie seeking next-level thrills? Have you always wanted to ride the world’s fastest accelerated rollercoaster, or maybe the world’s steepest coaster? Then you absolutely can’t look past a visit to Fuji-Q Highland.
This theme park in Tokyo offers as many breathtaking views of Mt Fuji as it does rides that will make your heart stop. Fuji-Q is not for the faint of heart. However, if you can’t quite handle the height or speed of the rides Fuji-Q is famous for, gentler and family-friendly options in the form of spinning teacups, gondola rides and a tam carousel offer some respite from the screams.
5. Try eating puffer fish
Chefs actually have to take a written and practical examination to be able to cook and serve puffer fish.
If the thought of eating a puffer fish automatically brings to mind that episode of the Simpsons when Homer was poisoned after eating blowfish at a sushi restaurant then you might be a little put-off by this suggestion.
Yes, it’s true that one wrong move could see you served up a potentially fatal meal, but YOLO! In all seriousness, the chefs at Japan’s number one sushi restaurant, Guenpin Fugu, are true masters of their craft, and they’ve got the licence—which is required in creating puffer fish dishes—to prove it!
The tranquil and traditional setting of this famed restaurant will calm your nerves before you dive into your carefully prepared dish. When you have lived to tell the tale, you will be sharing a story of one of the most unique experiences in Japan and all over the world. How many people can say they’ve mustered the courage to try this exquisite delicacy?
6. Prepare to be in awe at this Robot Restaurant [Permanently closed as of July 2020]
For something completely Tokyo, this is a must-see!
Robot Restaurant sounds like an outlandish idea in so many ways, yet hoards of visitors flocked to this must-see location. It was definitely one of the more interestings things to do in Tokyo!
A mash-up of colour, mirrors, lights and metallics, the décor in this restaurant was enough to warrant a visit alone, but it was the bonkers stage show that was the real hero of this joint.
Featuring crazy characters in mini performances, guests were entertained by ninjas, dragons, futuristic animals and, naturally, robots as they played instruments, sang, danced and romped around the stage, giving visitors plenty to write home about.
If it’s not the set and props that will wow you, it’s the food! Credits to @robotrestaurant on Instagram
Traditional Japanese food was available to enjoy throughout the show, as were snacks and drinks from the bar. A dinner at Robot Restaurant was always a great way to kick off a big night out because it was a guaranteed spot for having some of the most fun you could have in Tokyo.
Although the Robot Restaurant has closed its doors, Tokyo still offers a wide range of delectable restaurants. We’ve even got a two-day food guide to prove it!
7. Watch a sumo wrestling show
Get a taste of Chanko stew—a staple meal of Sumo wrestlers.
Sumo wrestling is Japan’s national sport and it’s like nothing else in the world. Watching a live match is definitely a must-do when in Japan! These athletes have been entertaining crowds for 1,500 years, and are widely revered for their amazing skills.
It is tricky to score a ticket to one of the huge annual tournaments that are held in Tokyo, so count yourself lucky if you manage to nab one! If you happen to miss out though, don’t worry as there are other opportunities to see sumo wrestlers in the flesh and up-close by booking into a sumo show. You may even get the chance to try out some of their moves after being taught by the experts themselves!
8. Head to a Hedgehog Cafe
Some hedgehogs are actually pretty lazy and will love snuggling in your lap!
If you’re an animal lover, a visit to an animal cafe must be at the top of your list of things to do in Tokyo! It may seem like one of the more unconventional itinerary items, but the experience is too cute and can’t be done anywhere else in the world—so try it while you have the chance! There is the Hapi Neko cat cafe, Sakuragaoka goat cafe, Cafe HOOT HOOT – Owl cafe, and our pick Hedgehog Home & Cafe!
This cute cafe in Shibuya is home to 30 hedgehogs living in super comfy mini dolls houses, complete with mini furniture! It’s normal to be nervous around these tiny creatures, especially if it’s your first time interacting with them. Fortunately, the staff are very kind and accommodating, and will teach you everything you need to know about keeping you and the hedgies happy, safe, and comfy.
9. Capture the perfect photo of Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan and boasts an incredibly symmetrical cone.
There aren’t many cities in the world that can boast an Insta-worthy dormant volcano with a snow-capped peak, and, as a bonus: it’s also just 36 minutes away by train.
Each year 300,000 people climb to Mount Fuji’s summit, which is said to have spiritual powers. But if you aren’t much of a climber, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the stunning surroundings.
A day trip to Hakone, inclusive of a river cruise, short trek and ropeway (cable car) ride will allow you to take in one of the most popular landmarks in the world without exerting anywhere near the amount of energy you would need to make it to the top.
After the ropeway ride, you’ll get to a viewing point at an elevation of 2,300 metres, where you can take in the picturesque landscape and hike the short distance to Komagatake peak to explore the shrine situated at the top.
Even without hiking the full summit, this day trip is a quintessentially Japanese experience that you will remember for a lifetime.
10. Relax at a hot spring theme park
Feel free to try one of the 3000 Japanese hot springs, or onsen, in Japan.
If it’s chilling, not thrilling, that you’re after then a day of bathing and pampering at Oedo-Onsen-Monogatari is in order.
At Japan’s largest hot spring theme park, you can indulge in steam baths, open air hot springs, and foot baths for the ultimate relaxation package. When you’ve powered up, you can try your hand at some old-fashioned carnival games and stock up on some Japanese sweets. All the services you would expect at your local beauty salon are also available in this tranquil park that has been modelled after Japan’s Edo period.
Why not add this to the schedule for a stress-free way to end a busy trip to Tokyo and unwind before the flight home?
11. Escape the city to Hakone
This warm bath with a view is what dreams are made of! Credits to @japankuru
Experience the best of both worlds at another of Japan’s hot spring theme parks, Hakone Kowaki-en Yunessun Hot Spring Theme Park. It combines all the fun and excitement of an amusement park, as well as the rest and relaxation provided by a spa resort. If this wasn’t already on your list of things to do in Tokyo, you’ll want to add it for the family-friendly fun that’s perfect for children and adults.
With so many pools to choose from, you won’t know which one to dip your feet into next. But aside from treating your body to the relaxing hot spring waters, you’ll also be treating your eyes to a wonderful view of the Hakone mountains when you wade into the outdoor hot springs. When you’re feeling a little peckish before or after your bath, head on over to the multicultural buffet that serves a wide range of local and international delicacies that will complete your trip.
12. Shop ‘til you drop at Don Quijote
There’s no doubt you’ll find a sweet deal at Don Quijote! Credits to @paulinieee_
You might be thinking, what makes this place so special when you can shop anywhere else? Don Quijote is not your average shop; it’s the largest discount store in Japan. You can find anything you could ever need or want in the shelves of this massive store.
The largest Don Quijote store is in Shibuya, Tokyo, but every store sells a large variety of items, which makes it the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, collectibles, and Japanese versions of food, toys, and more. Don Quijote first opened in Tokyo in 1989 and has become popular among things to do in Tokyo.
Can’t get enough of shopping? Fortunately, Tokyo is prime with several shopping districts that offer affordable finds, as well as luxury goods. Score vintage pieces, unusual accessories, and classic brand items from any of the areas listed in this shopping guide!
13. Immerse yourself in the fashionable streets of Harajuku
This is definitely the place to make bold fashion choices. Credits to @mikaela_stringfellow
If you think you know fashion, you haven’t seen anything yet until you’ve strolled the streets of Takeshita-dori or Harajuku Lane. Prepare to be amazed by the eccentric outfits of locals and foreigners alike, dressed up in colorful wigs, unconventional accessories, and mix-and-match outfits. You’ll also be wowed by equally colourful and outlandish snacks and treats you won’t resist taking a bite of.
Want to join in on the fun? Takeshita street is lined with the coolest shops from underground vintage stores to aesthetically-pleasing fashion boutiques. There’s a store for every style at Harajuku, so you can buy your dream wardrobe!
14. Have a terrifyingly cute time at the Kawaii Monster Cafe
Get lost in this wonderland of a cafe! Credits to @jj_heart_siren
If you’re already in Harajuku, you should also drop by one of the most unique spots in the area. This cafe is what dreams are made of—the only place you can find some of its interesting elements are in your imagination and at the Kawaii Monster Cafe. Every angle is Instagram-worthy, so be sure to snap a photo to commemorate your trip.
Get a load of their too-cute-to-eat treats, which includes rainbow pasta, colorful rice dishes, and monster sandwiches. You’ll also be entertained by eccentric performers as you chow down on their delicious dishes. Kawaii Monster Cafe is basically Harajuku in one place!
15. Spend the day at the happiest place in Tokyo at Tokyo Disney Resort
DisneySea Tokyo has been hailed as one of the best theme parks of all time by guests. Credits to @nakko.disney
You might have been to other Disney parks around the world, but Tokyo Disney Resort is unlike any other Disney resort in the world. Not only is there the classic Tokyo Disneyland, but they also have the fantasea-like Tokyo DisneySea. The latter is definitely one of the most popular attractions that are visited in Tokyo. Guests of all ages will have fun exploring all of their ocean-themed areas. In addition, it has one of the best selections of scrumptious dishes that make you forget you’re at a theme park and not at a world-class restaurant.
Tokyo Disney Resort has set itself apart from other parks because of how immersive the park’s atmosphere truly is. They spared no expense in creating beautiful and realistic sets. The Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade, Dreamlights, is the best way to cap off your trip at the end of the day with a great soundtrack and incredible parade floats.
16. Buy anything from the quirkiest vending machines
These awesomely-decorated vending machines make the perfect backdrop to you photos. Credits to @monalisawong
Did you know there were around 4 million vending machines in Japan in 2021? They once had 5 million machines scattered throughout the country, but that’s still an incredible amount. You might be wondering how there could be so many, and the answer is that Japanese vending machines provide more than the usual snacks and drinks.
Surprise yourself with what you’ll find at the most unconventional vending machines in Japan and in the world. You can get anything from ramen, bath bombs, flowers, and so much more. If it’s not the interesting items inside, it’s the wonderful exteriors of the machines that will catch your eye!
17. Watch your favourite Studio Ghibli movies come to life
Here’s your chance to star in your own Studio Ghibli film. Credits to @shira_toriii
Feed your whimsy with a visit to the Studio Ghibli museum. The entire area is dedicated to the films produced by renowned Japanese director, artist, screenwriter, and museum designer, Hayao Miyazaki. In the museum is an incredible exhibit that showcases a replica of Hayao Miyazaki’s room, which is littered with sketches of Ghibli characters and scenery.
The entire experience is the definition of magical, with special exhibits that bring elements from the movies to life. There’s also a one-of-a-kind theater, the Saturn Theater, in the museum where visitors can enjoy a viewing of Studio Ghibli short films that can’t be seen anywhere else. It’s important to note, though, that taking photos and videos are not allowed inside the museum, but there are plenty of attractions to pose next to outside.
18. Get lost in Otaku culture at Akihabara
It’s the perfect place to bond over fan theories, cute characters, and great artists. Credits to @andrea_mrst
For all things anime, manga, cosplay, and otaku culture, Akihabara is the place to be. You can find everything you need to cosplay your favourite characters in specialty shops, as well as unique merchandise that you can take back home to show off to your friends. Complete your collection with unique collectibles and figurines that you can’t find at any regular store.
There are also maid cafes, butler cafes, and video game stores that will help you immerse yourself in the culture. Tech-savvy visitors will also have a blast at the many tech stores and exhibitions littered throughout the area. Add this to your list of things to do in Tokyo to get a taste of quintessential Japanese culture.
Experience unique Tokyo!
Tokyo has so many unique and unusual things to do! It has a heady mix of things to do and experience that will make you laugh, cry and scratch your head. It’s go time!
Want to do it all but only have 5 days?
Still want more ideas for your Tokyo trip? The city has plenty more experiences that give you a taste of Japanese culture, history, and scenery. Here are 12 more things you won’t want to miss out on in Tokyo in one helpful guide.
