If you are considering a place for your next trip to Asia, then you should definitely think about going to Tokyo. Nature lover, geek, culture person, no matter what kind of traveller you are, you’re going to get a bite of the cherry. From the liveliness of Shibuya Crossing to the peace of Meiji Shrine gardens, its culture split all over the place. This is the trip of a lifetime, and if you are looking at taking it, then we offer you a complete list of the best things to do in Tokyo, the “Land of the Rising Sun”. Ready for Tokyo sightseeing? Then check these out.
Shibuya Crossing: The world’s busiest pedestrian intersection
Shibuya Crossing is in chaos at its breathtaking best. And one site every tourist, photographer, and local alike finds interesting. Think of a human wave sweeping in all directions — we mean hundreds if not thousands of people surging across as the crossing light changes. But that’s not all. We’re talking bright lights, shimmering hook ads, LED screens that beam a neon yellow, everything and anything. It’s indeed a wonderful sight to behold and one of Tokyo’s landmarks. Enjoy this interesting view, grab some coffee at the Starbucks on the crossing and watch an endless parade of human traffic.
Tokyo Tower: iconic views of the city skyline
The capital is all lit up, and you can see it in all its splendour when you are at the top of the Tokyo Tower. During the day, you will be able to see the bustle of the Ginza District, while by night it’s the illumination colours that light up the city. The Tokyo Tower has an observation deck and skywalk to the top deck if you want a better look at the street and things happening there in a very intimate way. Take it from me, this place is a must-visit when it comes to top things to do in Tokyo. It is also one of my favourite things to do in Tokyo at night.
Senso-ji Tokyo temple: discover Tokyo’s oldest and most famous temple
When you come to Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple, you know an eternal portion of Tokyo’s history is gripping your pulse. The streets that lead you to the temple, Nakamise Street, is a long stretch of little shops where you may surrender to your shopping instinct. There are two more Asakusa temples by the side and the fact that close by is the shopping and entertainment centre of the city, Asakusa temple should be one of your places to visit in your Tokyo itinerary.
On the way to the actual temple, you will first pass through the Kaminarimon Gate where a giant red lantern and two fierce-looking guardian statues signal the entrance. Take a moment to savour this place and then head out to Shakujii-dori Street.
Shakujii-dori Street eventually turns into Nakamise Street. This is a huge shopping street filled with stalls selling all sorts of food — ranging from snacks and sweets to trinkets and omiyage (souvenirs). The nearby hubbub in the heart of this Tokyo centre makes it a fantastic site to eat food. Grab yourself a taiyaki — a fish-shaped snack that has a flavour of sweet red bean paste, or a couple of senbei (rice crackers). In Harajuku Tokyo, you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Meiji Shrine: A peaceful escape in the heart of Tokyo
If anyone ever asks you what a shrine feels like, direct them to these Shinto shrines. The silence that runs deep amidst these woods, the incense that makes you half-blind after a while is definitely worth experiencing. It’s like diving into heaven that lies only a step away from Harajuku Tokyo. Marvel at the resourcefulness of the Japanese in this beautiful shrine located near Harajuku station. Although there are many Meiji Jingu temples on the list of adventure sites in Tokyo, you will discover that this and every other one has its special appeal. This place should top your list of things to see in Tokyo.
Imperial Palace: A blend of history and natural beauty
The Tokyo Imperial Palace is a great place to visit. It is a stunning area surrounded by picturesque moats and gardens. The whole complex is calm and serene and serves as a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Since the inner gardens are accessible to visitors only on the day of an event, the East Garden remains the best part that can be visited by travellers at any time of the year. In spring, cherry blossoms fall across the expanse and in Autumn, maple leaves light up the garden. Tokyo travel places like this one should definitely be in your things to see in Tokyo list.
Tsukiji Outer Market: A paradise for food lovers
Tsukiji was previously known as the fish market before it moved to Toyosu in 2018, but the outer market is the ultimate place in Tokyo for Foodies! Shop for fresh Sushi, devour some grilled seafood skewers and taste Japanese Tamagoyaki- a sweet rolled omelette. It is the best place to visit in Tokyo for foodies. Tokyo is a true paradise for food lovers, offering a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine—discover more about food in Japan to plan your culinary adventure.
TeamLab Planets: Tokyo’s immersive digital art experience
Tokyo Teamlab Planet is a digital art museum in Tokyo City, blurring the boundaries of art and technology. And the fact that it’s mentioned here as one of the fun things to do in Tokyo should give a hint about its real nature. The differentiator is you can actually touch and interact with these installations! The famous water room with the mirrors is the most written about. You should really come here! It’s appropriate to regard this as a Tokyo must-see.
Akihabara: The ultimate destination for anime and tech fans
Akihabara (or Akiba for short) is a dreamland for otakus. You walk down the street with manga stores, anime items and character goods and come across Dakashi’s paradise — the electronics store with all kinds of new technology gadgets. From what you see and what you buy, nothing is like anything else. For the otaku side and others who like electronic gadgets, go to Akihabara. Think of places to see in Tokyo, and here comes to mind, especially if you have a thing for anime and tech.
Harajuku: The centre of quirky fashion and youth culture
Harajuku is the paradise of teenage fashionistas. Takeshita Street is where everything teenagers should wear can be found — in Starburst colour, in the fanciest glitter. It’s a street of teenagers’ fantasy ads in a fantasyland, the town of weird and wonderful fashion trendsetters seeking refuge in their own only-one-kind community Harajuku. This street comes with lots of trendy fashion boutiques, accessory shops and food stores for food enthusiasts — for awesomeness and weirdness. If you only have one day in Tokyo, don’t miss this place.
Ueno Park: Museums, cherry blossoms, and cultural gems
Ueno Park in central Tokyo is a sprawling sanctuary of art, nature and history. The home of a zoo, multiple museums, and famous cherry blossoms, it’s a major beacon of the metropolis. It’s most famous in the spring, usually late March to early April, when thousands of its sakura trees burst into colour, creating seas of pink and white. Perfect for peaceful morning walks under a canopy of flowers or for magical yozakura nights, when lanterns light the trees from below.
On our first springtime visit, we got into the mood when a group of hanami partiers motioned for us to join. Eating dango and laughing under the sakura, reminded us that Ueno Park is more than just a place — it’s where nature, history and human connections blossom.
Ginza: Tokyo’s luxury shopping and dining hub
Ginza in Tokyo is one of the classiest districts with a great shopping experience and a number of cultural institutions such as art galleries and theatres. It’s got a number of famous department stores and swanky boutiques (Dior, Chanel…) within the vicinity of the Beverly Hills of Tokyo. From early evening on weekends, the main street through Ginza becomes a pedestrian paradise and there are theatre performances and other cultural events held in warm weather. Ginza is one of the classy fun places in Tokyo you can go to. Talk about classy fun places in Tokyo at night. Shopping here is a must-do in Tokyo.
Odaiba: Futuristic entertainment and waterfront views
This artificial island, Odaiba area is filled with futuristic wonders and is a cutting-edge paradise. Odaiba is an irresistible magnet for anyone who loves theme parks, shopping and enjoying the wonderful view of the Bay Area. Go take some pictures of the life-size Gundam statue, walk across the rainbow bridge towers, and shop, shop, shop in the giant shopping malls. It’s a fun and exciting place in Tokyo.
Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea: Magical experiences for all ages
For a sprinkle of fairy dust and a whole lot of fantasy — Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea easily enchant and amaze. The magical kingdom boasts timeless attractions, friendly character encounters, and vibrant park parades, while the mysterious sea surrounds visitors with ocean-themed adventures, shows, and performances. Unfortunately, several of their most popular rides are still prone to long lines, so it’s best to visit on weekdays or off-peak times to make the most of the magic.
We once visited DisneySea just as the sun was starting to set, and the entire Mediterranean Harbor was lit in a golden hue — it was practically a fairy tale. It’s moments like again that secure the fact that these are not just theme parks — there are a few surprises here and there to keep the magic alive.
Mount Takao: A scenic day trip for nature lovers
Trade the city clamor for peace and calm at Mount Takao — a natural paradise just an hour away from Tokyo. Verdant forest hiking paths, picturesque routes to stunning heights, and a convenient cable car to take you to the most scenic spots — a wander around this place offers a wonderful interplay of relaxation and adventure. Visit in fall for stunning fiery reds and oranges covering the terrain, or in spring to walk beneath the sakuras lining the sky.
During one of our treks, we finally reached the top when the mists began to roll in, blanketing the entire space in a soft, otherworldly glow. Staring out at the skyline just on the horizon, Mount Takao is the only place for you to fully experience the harmony of Tokyo’s nature and spirit.
Shinjuku Gyoen: A tranquil garden in the bustling city
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a nature escape in the middle of the city. With its seasonal blooms (cherry blossoms in Tokyo and the autumn leaves of Tokyo are especially well known) this is a great activity to chill in the city. Walk through the varying gardens; breathe in the air and forget that you are in the middle of a major city.
Golden Gai: Experience tokyo’s nightlife in tiny, unique bars
If you’re a creature of the night, then one of Tokyo ‘s must-see is Golden Gai. This historical district is made up of narrow alleyways home to small shanty-style bars. Gold Gai is famous for its shanty-town appearance and each shack is unique and is an up close (and slightly cosy) insight into local work play. Add this to your Tokyo activities at night.
Why Tokyo is the ultimate destination for travellers
No views are more unique than those of Tokyo. Everywhere you look, whether it’s the times looking at the iconic Tokyo locations like Shibuya Crossing and Tokyo Tower, the tranquillity of Meiji Shrine and Shinjuku Gyoen, or even everything in between it’s the future and the past. Now explore where to eat at Tsukiji Outer Market with Tsukiji Outer Market’s top restaurants, and other top places to visit like Senso-ji Temple, teamLab planets, and Tokyo Tower restaurant music and dishes.
And that’s only the beginning. Whether it’s learning traditional Japanese culture at a tea ceremony, watching classical performing arts at a Kabuki theatre, or experiencing Japan’s national sport at a sumo wrestling Tokyo tournament, Tokyo attractions are the best of Japan’s culture.
If you love nature you can still find traditional Japanese experiences like visiting traditional Japanese gardens at Happo-en. If they’re looking to hit the highs, visitors can have a bird’s-eye view in Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan! After you hit all the best things to do in Tokyo, head over to an onsen in Tokyo and relax!
If hitting Tokyo is on your tour lineup, then booking an organised trip to Japan with an expert guide is the best way to go. This kind of tour caters to any interest. Whether you’re into history, cuisine, or sightseeing in Tokyo, you are sure to really enjoy your time in Tokyo.
