The Best Things to Do in Tokyo When Traveling to Japan
The veneration of Tokyo is the maximum concentration of the ancient and modern cultural life of Japan because this city is its capital. Let’s look at the best things to do in Tokyo for everyone.
Tokyo is the capital of Japan and has a population of about 14 million people. This city is located in the southeast of Honshu Island. This one small town has a very large number of residents, both native Japanese and visiting foreigners. According to statistics, most people come here from neighboring countries such as China or South Korea. You can also meet French, British, Russian, or other European representatives here.
Since this city is a Japanese economic center, hundreds of thousands come here to earn money. But at the same time, this city is known for its high level of recycling. Tokyo is also so important to Japan that it has its own coat of arms, sign, and flag. Summers are hot and humid here, and winters are warm, which allows tourists to walk in more open clothes. The city is also a transport hub of the country, there are railways, a metro, and an airport.
Learn the best things to do in Tokyo when traveling to Japan for everyone and stay in touch with the world using the best eSIM for Tokyo during your trip.
The Best Things to Do in Tokyo: Top 30 Places for Everyone
If you don’t know what to do in Tokyo, then this guide will help you find the best solution for an unforgettable time. There are 6 sections in this guide: Tokyo with children, Tokyo for couples, Tokyo for museum lovers, Tokyo with friends, Tokyo for architecture lovers, and gastronomic Tokyo.
Don’t waste time and open the relevant section and choose possible entertainment from the suggested ones.
Tokyo with Kids
1. Tokyo Disney Resort
Tokyo Disneyland (Tokyo Disney Resort) consists of two parks — Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, divided into thematic sectors. The Ecumenical Bazaar zone recreates the spirit of an American town at the beginning of the 20th century. In the “Land of Adventures”, you will have a trip to the Pirates of the Caribbean, a meeting with the famous Jack Sparrow stories, and a jungle cruise station. Disney cartoon characters live in the “Fantasy Land”. “Wild West Country” from the time of the Gold Rush will take you to the heroes of Mark Twain, and “Country of the Future” will send you on “Space Tours”. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
2. Ghibli Museum
You can get into the world of Japanese anime in the largest animation studio Ghibli. The initiator of the project was Hayao Miyazaki, who managed to win the hearts of millions of children and adults. At the Ghibli Studio Museum, you will learn the history of anime development in Japan, see sketches for cartoons, look into Miyazaki’s office, and watch new and exclusive cartoons in the cinema.
3. KidZania
KidZania is a small town where children can play the role of adults and try on one of the 100 professions presented. Here a child can put out fires, repair cars, or become a McDonald’s employee. The most popular profession is the cook because they take everything that the children cook in Kidzania with them. However, other professions are also paid for with a special KidZos currency, which can be spent inside the city or in a souvenir shop. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
4. Big O
Daikanransha is a Ferris wheel in the Pallet Town Park on Odaiba Island. Its height is 115 meters, and a full turn takes 15 minutes. Some booths have a transparent floor. In the cold season, the seats are heated. From the top of the attraction, there is a stunning panorama of the Rainbow Bridge, the Sky Tree Tower (Tokyo Skytree), and Odaiba Island. In the evening, the Daikanransha is illuminated by 120,000 lights and looks like a shining chrysanthemum.
5. Ueno Park and Zoo
3,000 animals live on the vast territory, and monuments of ancient architecture are located. Some buildings date back to the XVII century. At the time of its foundation, only representatives of the local fauna lived in the zoo. Today, animals from different parts of the world, including endangered species, are gathered here. Local stars and everyone’s favorites are two pandas from China. To see them, you have to stand in line. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
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Tokyo for Couples
6. Mount Fuji
Sacred Mount Fuji is a 3,776 m high volcano. Its Kangamine Peak is the highest point in Japan. According to a donation dated 1609, Fujiyama is privately owned by the Hongu Sengen Shinto Temple. Japanese legends attributed magical properties to Fuji, it inspired artists and poets.
Fuji’s tourist infrastructure is open from July 1 to August 27. There are two temples on the mountain – a Buddhist and a Shinto temple. The foot of the mountain is surrounded by five picturesque lakes with good fishing and pleasant boat trips.
7. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Japanese paradise – this is what you can call the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, which combines picturesque nature, ancient monuments, and interesting museums. The reserve, which covers an area of more than 1,227 square kilometers, was founded in 1936. Its territory is divided into three districts – Mount Fuji, Hakone, and the Izu Peninsula. A monorail tram runs in the park, as well as a train that stops near the main attractions. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
8. Aogashima
Aogashima is a subtropical island of the Izu archipelago with an area of 6 sq. km. The Kuroshio current makes the local climate mild, without sudden temperature changes.
The highest point of Aogashima is the Maruyama volcano (432 m). This is a wonderful observation deck with stunning views. Not far from the crater, there is a volcanic furnace, which is a structure for steaming food that bursts out of the ground.
9. Inokashira Park
During the Edo period, an artificial Inokashira pond was created in the park. Now it is surrounded by 250 sakura trees, which cover the water surface with a pink fleur of petals during flowering. The park is located in the Tokyo metropolitan area between the cities of Mitaka and Musashino.
It’s not just the cherry trees that make the park so beautiful. The landscape is formed by cypresses, red pine, Japanese maples, and numerous flowering plants. In the park you can listen to street musicians, take a ride on the lake in a swan boat, have a cup of coffee in one of the many cafés and, if you’re lucky, visit the flea market for artists. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
10. Mount Takao
You can climb to the top of Takao by a funicular or cable car, enjoying the picturesque scenery along the way. Another option is to choose one of the six hiking routes and fully immerse yourself in the unique nature of Takao. Depending on the route you choose, you can walk along the suspension bridge, pass through the Dzesimmon Gate, and climb up to the Yakuoin Monastery. At the top of Takao, you will find an observation deck and the opportunity to admire the beautiful views of Tokyo.
Tokyo for Museum Lovers
11. Yamatane Museum of Art
The gallery is located in a modern building, the interior of which is designed in a traditional Japanese style. Inside you will see a tearoom, a library, and a rock garden. The museum’s exposition includes over 1,500 paintings by modern Japanese masters of the Nihonga style. The works “Dancing in Flames” and “Camellia Losing Its Leaves” are included in the list of cultural heritage sites of Japan. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
12. National Museum of Western Art
The National Museum of Western Art preserves the greatest works of world art of the XIV–XX centuries. The collection was started by Japanese businessman Matsukata Kojiro. The Art Nouveau building was built in 1959 by the French architect Le Corbusier.
In the exhibition, you will see paintings by French Impressionists. The era of the early Renaissance is represented by paintings on religious themes, and the XVII century by portrait paintings by Reni, Ribera, and Rubens.
13. Edo-Tokyo Museum
The Edo-Tokyo History Museum is dedicated to the Japanese capital. The exposition is divided into three thematic zones – “History”, “Edo”, and “Tokyo”. The first tells about the history of the territory’s development from the Paleolithic to the end of the XX century. The Edo section presents life-size historical models and installations – the Nihombashi Bridge, which for many centuries was considered the geographical center of Japan, Edo Castle, the homes of the poor, and the houses of the Japanese nobility. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
14. National Museum of Nature and Science
The National Museum of Nature and Science has a rich natural science collection. The exposition is divided into two parts. The Japanese gallery is dedicated to the formation of the Japanese archipelago and its human settlement, the current state of the islands, flora, fauna, seas, geological activity, and climate of the Land of the Rising Sun.
The second part of the museum, the Global Gallery, is located in a new 6-storey building and tells about the origin of life on Earth, evolution, the diversity of the living world, and the progress of science and technology.
15. The National Art Center
The National Center for the Arts in Tokyo welcomed its first guests in 2007. The wave-shaped building was designed by architect Kise Kurokawa. Such a design is not only a design technique, it has practical significance.
The National Center for the Arts is a venue for temporary exhibitions, scientific lectures, and master classes. It is called the “empty” museum with the largest exhibition space in Japan. The center is located in the fashionable Roppongi district. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
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Tokyo with Friends
16. Akihabara
Tokyo’s Akihabara district is the largest world-class shopping area selling computer equipment, consumer electronics, software, video games, game consoles, and gadgets.
A must-see place in Akihabara is the Tokyo Anime Center, where anime-related events take place six days a week. There is a Don Quijote shopping center in Akihabara, where any goods, including state-of-the-art gadgets, are sold at great discounts.
17. Shibuya
Shibuya is a shopping and entertainment district where fashionistas shop and office workers relax after a hard day.
One of the most interesting places in Shibuya is the national television NHK Studio Park theme park, where you can plunge into the world of news, TV series, and filming. Go shopping on Ebisu, Harajuku, Daikaniama, and Hatagaya streets. An evening walk along St. Guy Street will complete the picture. This is a place of youth gatherings, nightclubs, and small cheap cafés, where life boils around the clock. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
18. Kabukiza Theatre
Kabukiza is the national theater of Japan, its pride and object of adoration. Rich costumes, special makeup, the duration of the theatrical action, and its complex semantic load are the distinctive features of kabuki.
The performance can last for several hours, so for those who are getting to know kabuki for the first time, tickets for one act are sold. There are restaurants in the theater where you can have a snack during the intermission.
19. Golden Gai
In the Golden Gai neighborhood, life flows the same way as it did 50 years ago. It consists of 6 interconnected narrow streets with more than 200 small bars and pubs. Today, Golden Gai is a favorite neighborhood of the local creative public, among which celebrities are often found. There is a special atmosphere on the streets, reminiscent of scenes from old movies about Japan. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
20. Harajuku
Harajuku district is a place of eccentric fashion, branded boutiques, and themed exclusive clothing stores. Representatives of completely different subcultures get along peacefully here. Harajuku is located between Shibuya and Shinjuku. It consists of only two streets – Omotesando and Takeshita. The expensive restaurants and shops on Omotesando are designed for the affluent public over the age of 30. Takeshita is dominated by young people, many small multi-brand and second-hand shops work for them.
Tokyo for Architecture Lovers
21. Senso-ji
Konryuzan Senso-ji Temple is the oldest Buddhist complex in Tokyo. Another name is Asakusa Kannon. Asakusa is the area where the temple is located, and Kannon is the name of the goddess of mercy, in whose honor it was built in the 7th century. The temple acquired its modern appearance in the XVII century.
There is an omikuji nearby, a box with traditional Japanese fortune telling. You can buy a prediction. If you don’t like it, just leave it in the temple. Everyone entering the temple should rinse their hands and mouth, throw a coin into the donation box, clap their hands, and only then turn to the Buddha with prayer. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
22. Nakagin Capsule Tower
The Nakagin Capsule Tower is called a vivid example of the avant-garde architectural movement “Japanese metabolism”. In 1972, it seemed the epitome of practicality and progress. Each capsule is 10 sq. m. m of living or working space equipped with everything necessary for life, including air conditioners and consumer electronics.
23. Yasukuni Shrine
The temple complex was founded in 1869. Around the temple, there is a small garden with a tea house, traditional structures for Shinto shrines – a stage for the Noh theater, and an arena for sumo wrestling. Memorials and sculptures related to the military history of Japan are installed everywhere. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
24. Kanda Shrine
The first Kanda Shinto temple was built in the 70s of the XIII century. Over 1300 years, it has been destroyed several times but each time it has been restored. Today, Kanda is a luxurious two-storey building made in the Shinto style, richly painted with cinnabar and decorated with lacquer and gold. The sanctuary is dedicated to three kami deities, two of whom belong to the gods of luck and are considered the patrons of entrepreneurs.
25. Holy Resurrection Cathedral
The solemn consecration of the Tokyo Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ took place in March 1891. Today, one of the oldest buildings in Tokyo is recognized as a national treasure of Japan. The architectural style of the cathedral is Russian-Byzantine. There is no painting inside, the white walls are decorated with icons, some of them are copies of works by Russian artists. The height of the dome with a cross is 35 m, and the bell tower is 40 m. The cathedral accommodates several thousand believers. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
Gastronomic Tokyo
26. Toyosu Fish Market
Tokyo is famous for its Toyosu Market, which is the successor to the famous Tsukiji Market. Here you can taste the freshest seafood, including sushi, prepared by craftsmen who work with fish delicacies every morning. This place is a must-visit for those who want to immerse themselves in the world of traditional Japanese cuisine.
At Toyosu Market, you can find restaurants serving sushi made from the fresh catches of the day, including tuna, eel, and sea urchins. Visitors can also see the famous tuna auctions that take place every morning.
27. Ginza
The Ginza area is known for its luxurious restaurants, many of which have been awarded Michelin stars. This is an ideal place for those who want to try high-end Japanese cuisine, where every dish is a work of art. Ginza’s restaurants use only the highest quality products, and the chefs create exquisite dishes such as kaiseki (traditional Japanese lunch).
Sukiyabashi Jiro Restaurant in Ginza is famous for having received three Michelin stars and is considered one of the best sushi restaurants in the world. Here you can taste unique dishes from sushi master Jiro Ono. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
28. Asakusa
Asakusa is not only a historic district but also a place where you can enjoy street food. Walking along the streets near the Sensoji Temple, you can try such popular dishes as takoyaki (octopus balls), yakitori (chicken skewers), and taiyaki (fish made of dough with stuffing). This is a great place for those who want to feel the atmosphere of traditional Tokyo and enjoy delicious food on the go.
Asakusa offers many small shops where you can taste culinary masterpieces of Japanese street food, such as tempura and karaage.
29. Odaiba
Odaiba is not only a technology center but also a great place for those who are looking for restaurants with beautiful views of the bay. Here you can enjoy dinner at tourist restaurants, where the menu includes both Japanese delicacies and international cuisine. Many restaurants offer unique cooking shows and interactive dinners.
At the TeamLab Planets restaurant, you can immerse yourself in digital installations and enjoy food in a unique environment combining technology and haute cuisine. One of the best things to do in Tokyo.
30. Kaiseki
Kaiseki is a traditional Japanese multi-course dinner. Much attention is paid to seasonal dishes and their decoration. Each of them artfully combines taste, texture, and color. For the kaiseki kitchen, every detail is important, even the dishes.
The basis of kaiseki is grilled fish, soup, and rice. They are complemented with dishes made from seasonal vegetables – perhaps you have never heard of these vegetables themselves, or about unusual ways of cooking them.
The Suzunari restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star. Prices for meals start from 8250 yen. The establishment is located in a quiet area of Arakite, full of tiny bars and other restaurants.
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What is a must-see in Tokyo?
In Tokyo, you should definitely visit places such as the Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, which is one of the oldest in the city. Don’t forget to take a look at the Shibuya area with its famous intersection and the Hachiko statue. It’s also worth exploring Tokyo Tower for stunning views of the city and enjoying the atmosphere of the Harajuku area, known for its unique fashion and culture. Finally, visit the Higashiyama Garden for the tranquility and beauty of nature amidst the noise of the city.
Is it safe to travel around Tokyo?
Traveling around Tokyo is generally very safe. The city is famous for its low crime rate and well-developed public transport system. Street crimes such as pickpocketing are rare. Nevertheless, as in any large city, it is worth taking general precautions: keep an eye on your belongings and avoid disadvantaged areas at night. In general, Tokyo is a comfortable and safe place to travel.
How to Stay Connected During Your Tokyo Trip?
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eSIM opens up many advantages both in environmental and financial aspects, as well as in ease of use during travel. Choose a proven service like eSIM Plus and stay connected around the clock anywhere in Japan.
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