A city that never sleeps, Tokyo is the preferred destination for tourists who want to experience the perfect fusion of classical and contemporary. From dazzling neon-lit skyline and vibrant culture to its historical sites and timeless traditions, a wide range of fun things to do in Tokyo awaits you! Start your adventure with our list of top 10 places to visit in Tokyo!
Recognized as the tallest tower in Japan, Tokyo Skytree stands tall at Oshiage in Sumida City. This massive radio tower offers two observation decks where you can gaze upon the beautiful city skyline. Tembo Deck has three floors that feature a souvenir shop, a cafe, and the Musashi Sky Restaurant, while Tembo Galleria’s iconic skywalk can be accessed through a quick elevator ride from the first deck. Getting a fast Skytree combo ticket helps you skip the long queues and gives smoother access to the two observation decks.
Senso-ji, also known as the Asakusa Kannon Temple, is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. Just a 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station, this heritage of Japanese culture is surrounded by monumental gates and houses a five-tiered pagoda, several halls, a scenic garden, and the famous shopping street Nakamise-Dori. Tourists can also try a plethora of other things like the street food, the omikuji (fortune-telling paper strips), traditional chochin (paper lanterns), a rickshaw ride, and a kimono experience! The Tokyo Skytree can also be seen across the river, creating a magnificent blend of modern and traditional scenery.
Tokyo Tower is the original landmark of Japan’s capital that is located at the Shiba-Koen district of Minato. Two observation decks are offering 360-degree panoramic views of the metropolitan horizon. The main observatory can be easily accessed via an elevator, but if you are up for a challenge, you can choose to take the 600-step stairs. Don’t miss the thrill of standing on the glass floor or visit the famous Foot Town that features an aquarium, an anime theme park, a wide range of shops for souvenirs, and a food court of international restaurants.
Located beside the Harajuku and Yoyogi Station, Meiji Shrine is a peaceful and ethereal forest thriving at the heart of the city’s concrete jungle. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, it is one of the most visited shrines in Japan with an enormous Torii gate that marks the entrance to the sacred world. You can enjoy a relaxing stroll through the tranquil walking paths. If you plan to visit on a Sunday morning, traditional Shinto weddings can also be seen happening on the shrines.
If you are looking for an endless collection of cool things to do in Tokyo, Odaiba is the ideal place for you! Sitting on an artificial island in Tokyo Bay, it is renowned as a shopping and entertainment hub packed with seaside fun, iconic attractions, and exciting activities that will surely make your travel worthwhile. Some of the most popular places to visit include the Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Joypolis, Team Lab Borderless Digital Art Museum, Palette Town Ferris Wheel, Gundam Robot, Oedo-Onsen Monogatari, Miraikan, and more!
The Imperial Palace is one of the alternative things to do in Tokyo if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It is the current residence of the Emperor of Japan surrounded by gigantic stone walls and two impressive moats. Located 10 minutes away from Tokyo Station, this large park-like area is also home to impressive art galleries, historic castle ruins, lovely gardens, and stunning cherry blossom viewing spots. Most parts of the inner grounds are only open for tours during special days, but if you want to go for a jog or a stroll, the East Gardens is always accessible to the public.
Ueno Park has something in store for every traveler. It is one of the best spots for hanami when sakura or cherry blossoms are in full bloom for spring festivals. Situated next to Ueno Station, this cultural forest is also home to numerous art museums, a zoo with the famous panda viewing section, the Shinobazu pond filled with flowering lotus, the historical Toshogu shrine, and the fantastic variety of street performers.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is another paradise located minutes away from Shinjuku Station that offers an escape from the hectic city center. With its large number of sakura trees, this beautiful city park is also one of the most visited hanami spots during spring. There is also a greenhouse with a variety of tropical flowers and plants, plus three captivating gardens: the English landscape garden, the formal French rose garden, and the traditional Japanese Garden with authentic tea houses.
Tokyo Disneyland is a magical dream destination not just for kids and Disney fans, but even for families and young at heart! Located near the Maihama Station, this fantasy kingdom offers seven themed lands with over 40 attractions. If you want to skip the long lines to popular attractions like Space Mountain and Monsters, Inc, getting your fast passes is a must-do! Don’t miss the parades, shows, and events, plus you can also greet your favorite Disney Characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Winnie the Pooh, and more!
Whether you’re an avid fan of anime or you just want to explore the trendiest shopping district in Tokyo, Harajuku brings you the haven of prominent cosplay culture in Japan. Takeshita Dori offers a variety of cute and quirky teenage fashion stores and souvenir shops. Don’t forget to wander down the surrounding alleys for chic cafes and dessert carts that sell sweet crepes, rainbow cotton candy, donuts, parfait, and more. Omotesando Avenue, on the other side, is home to an upscale range of boutiques and branded stores for older shoppers.
Tokyo is Japan’s bustling capital and the world’s most populous metropolis. Over 10 million foreign tourists visit this vibrant city every year and it only keeps increasing!
A typical day of sightseeing in Tokyo can take you from historic temples to impressive neon-lit skyscrapers. Visit Sensō-ji, the oldest and largest ancient Buddhist temple and then head up to the Tokyo SkyTree, Japan’s tallest tower, for incredible views. Most of all, don’t miss out on the magic of Tokyo Disneyland as well as the world’s only Tokyo DisneySea! It’s easy to see why with Tokyo’s perfect blend of modernism and tradition.
Tokyo is well-known for an extensive array of attractions to see and things to do. From its urban scenery and historical sites to its vibrant food culture and world-class art museums, you will never run out of activities to try at the bustling capital of Japan!
Tokyo can be explored all year round, but March to June is the peak season for tourists. Some of the notable festivals and events to remember are the cherry blossom festivals, the local shrine festival (Matsuri), the fireworks festivals, and New Year’s Day.
Shinjuku and Ginza are some of the best areas to stay as they are famous for upscale restaurants, high-end shopping destinations, and direct access to transportation. For the Old Tokyo vibe and budget-friendly accommodations, Asakusa is the best choice.