Top 10 Things to Do in Tokyo
Tokyo (東京都) is a treasure trove of attractions, and if you only have a few days to spend in the Japanese capital, it’s a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance. To be inspired on what to see and experience, check out our top 10 things to do in Tokyo!
1. Visit Sensō-ji Buddhist Temple
No trip to Tokyo is complete without a visit to the city's oldest Buddhist temple, Sensō-ji (浅草寺), officially called Kinryū-zan Sensō-ji (金龍山浅草寺) and also known as Asakusa Kannon (浅草観音). Dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of compassion, Sensō-ji dates back to the 7th century, when two fishermen discovered a statue of Kannon in the Sumida River (隅田川).
Kannon is believed to be an incarnation of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara (観音) and a companion of Amitābha Buddha (阿弥陀如来). She is often depicted with many arms, symbolising her willingness to help many people. Interestingly, Kannon is also linked to the origins of maneki-neko (招き猫), the famous good luck cat figurine with a beckoning gesture.
As part of your top 10 things to do in Tokyo, explore the rest of the Asakusa district. Wander the vibrant shopping streets and enjoy the delicious local cuisine.
2. Go up to the Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree Observation Deck
Exploring the heights of Tokyo is a must for anyone visiting the city. Among the top 10 things to do in Tokyo is a visit to one of the city's iconic observation decks for an unforgettable panoramic view.
Tokyo Tower (東京タワー), located in the Minato (港区) district, is reminiscent of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It's a great option for taking in both the hustle and bustle during the day and the magical lights of the city at night. For those who prefer a more modern vibe, Tokyo Skytree (東京スカイツリー) is the place to be. As the tallest television tower in the world, it offers breathtaking views of Tokyo and, on a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji (富士山).
3. Crossing Shibuya
You've probably seen pictures or videos of thousands of people crossing a street in Tokyo at the same time. This famous spot is Shibuya Crossing (渋谷スクランブル交差点), located in front of Shibuya Station (渋谷駅). It is one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, with up to 2,500 people crossing at peak times. The area is also home to the Hachikō statue (ハチ公), dedicated to the faithful Akita Inu dog who waited for the return of his owner at the station every day for nearly ten years after his owner passed away.
As one of the top 10 things to do in Tokyo, exploring the rest of Shibuya is not to be missed. Check out Shibuya Sky (渋谷スカイ), a sleek 229.71-metre observation deck atop one of the area's tallest buildings. A visit to Shibuya Sky is especially impressive in the evening, when the city glows with neon lights and vibrant signs.
4. See a Kabuki Performance and Indulge in Luxury Shopping in Ginza
Ginza (銀座) is a luxury shopping district known for its designer shops, global brands, and art galleries. In addition to shopping, Ginza is famous for the Kabuki-za Theatre (歌舞伎座) and world-class restaurants. At Kabuki-za, you can experience traditional Japanese Kabuki (歌舞伎) performances, presenting a unique theatrical art form. Afterwards, explore the diverse culinary delights of Ginza's renowned restaurants, which offer exceptional Japanese cuisine.
5. See the Imperial Palace and Imperial Palace East Gardens
The Imperial Palace (皇居) is the residence of the Imperial family, including the current Emperor Naruhito (徳仁). Built on the site of the former Edo Castle (江戸城), it was once the seat of the Tokugawa Shoguns (江戸幕府). Although the palace itself is not open to visitors, the beautiful Imperial Palace East Gardens (皇居東御苑) welcome everyone to explore its Edo-era buildings, Japanese gardens, and tranquil carp ponds. A stroll through these gardens allows you to experience the spirit and nobility of Japan's imperial dynasties preserved over the centuries. A visit to the Imperial Palace and Imperial Palace East Gardens is a must-have on any list of the top 10 things to do in Tokyo.
6. Soak up the Otaku Culture at Akihabara
Akihabara (秋葉原), also known as 'Electric Town', is a haven for anime (アニメ), manga (日本の漫画), and video game enthusiasts. Otaku (オタク) refers to a person who is simply a fan of contemporary Japanese culture. The name Akihabara comes from Akibagahara (秋葉ヶ原), which is derived from Akiba (秋葉). This vibrant area is home to arcades, cosplay (コスプレ) cafes, and themed venues, making it the heart of Tokyo's pop culture scene. For fans of all things digital and animated, a visit to Akihabara is a necessary part of any top 10 list of things to do in Tokyo. While exploring the area, don't miss a visit to a themed cafe, such as an iconic Maid Café (メイドカフェ), for an unforgettable and uniquely Japanese experience.
7. Take Inspiration from Tokyo Street Style in Harajuku
Harajuku (原宿) is a vibrant and youthful district celebrated for its vintage shops, unique boutiques, and cutting-edge fashion trends, earning it a well-deserved spot on the list of top 10 things to do in Tokyo. The district attracts tourists from all over the world who come to see young people expressing themselves through eclectic styles such as lolita (ロリータ・ファッション), cosplay, and goth fashion (ゴシック・ファッション).
Adding to the district's charm is the nearby Meiji Shrine (明治神宮), which offers a tranquil escape and a fascinating contrast between Tokyo's deep-rooted traditions and modern trends.
8. Have Fun in Shinjuku
If you're looking for exciting nightlife, Shinjuku (新宿) is one of Tokyo's trendiest districts. It boasts numerous shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Shinjuku is known for its vibrant nightlife, especially in the red-light district of Kabukichō (歌舞伎町) and Golden Gai (新宿ゴールデン街), where you'll find a variety of bars and restaurants to suit all tastes. Don't miss a visit to Tokyo City Hall, Shinjuku Twin Towers Observatory (東京都庁舎), where you can get free access to the observation deck for a panoramic view of the city.
9. Eat Sushi for Breakfast at Toyosu or Tsukiji Market
Starting the day with the freshest sushi is an unforgettable experience in Tokyo. The Toyosu (豊洲市場) and Tsukiji (築地) markets are famous for their seafood and sushi. While Tsukiji retains its traditional charm with small restaurants serving classic dishes, Toyosu Market is larger and more modern, carrying on the spirit of its predecessor. Enjoying an early breakfast at one of the local sushi bars allows you to taste the freshest catch, making it a key experience on the list of top 10 things to do in Tokyo.
10. Experience Hanami
Cherry blossom viewing, or hanami (花見), is one of Japan's most cherished traditions. From late March to early April, thousands of blossoming sakura trees transform parks into a pink wonderland. A top destination during this season is Shinjuku Gyoen (新宿御苑), known for its large green spaces and various types of sakura, including those that bloom early and extend the Hanami season. Perfect for family picnics and leisurely walks, the park offers a tranquil escape from the busy city, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.