このサイトではJavaScriptを使用したコンテンツ・機能を提供しています。JavaScriptを有効にするとご利用いただけます。

本文へスキップします。

  • Travel Trade & Press
  • School Trips
  • Business Events

GO TOKYO The Official Tokyo Travel Guide

New & Now

Tokyo Area Guide

Things to Do

Plan Your Trip

  • Choose Language 日本語 ENGLISH 中文(简体) 中文(繁體/正體) 한글 ภาษาไทย DEUTSCH ITALIANO ESPAÑOL FRANÇAIS

Share this page

  • X (Twitter)
  • My Favorites
  • All New & Now options
  • New & Trending

Spring Guide

  • Summer Guide
  • Autumn Guide
  • Winter Guide
  • Places The Locals Go
  • Stories & Guides
  • Another Tokyo
  • All Things to Do
  • Attractions
  • Food & Drink
  • Onsen & Bathhouses
  • Art & Design
  • Anime & Manga
  • Time Trip Tokyo
  • Walks & Tours

Tokyo Event Calendar

  • All Tips to Plan Your Trip
  • Accommodations
  • Getting to Tokyo

Getting Around

Airport & Cruise Terminal Access

Customs & Manners

  • Weather & Geography

Visa & Immigration

  • Tokyo at a Discount
  • Tours of Tokyo
  • TOKYO Brochures
  • PDF Maps & Guides
  • Tourist Information Centers
  • Online Tourist Guide

My Tokyo Guide

See something interesting? Click on the heart button in the article to add a page from this site to My Favorites.

Popular Keywords

  • Guide Service

Advanced Search

  • From open calendar
  • To open calendar
  • All Stories & Guides

Select Language

  • ESPAÑOL
  • FRANÇAIS

about tokyo tourism

Currently Featured

Adding a bookmark or shortcut to access the GO TOKYO website

What's on Guide

  • What's on Today
  • What's on Tomorrow
  • What's on This Weekend
  • Current & Upcoming Exhibitions

Popular with GO TOKYO Viewers

Tokyo Area Guides

  • Tokyo Tower

The Best of Tokyo

Seasonal Must-See Guide These guides and stories will answer all your burning questions about what to do each season in Tokyo. Get info about food, entertainment, and more. See More

Yozakura: cherry blossoms illuminated at night

Traveling to Tokyo – The Essential Guide

Enjoy Diverse Culinary Culture in Tokyo

Japanese Bathing Culture Uncovered—A Guide to Sento

Travel Tips

Health & Safety

Wifi & Connectivity

Explore by Interest

about tokyo tourism

Explore Tokyo

  • Tokyo Station & Marunouchi
  • Kanda & Jimbocho
  • Tokyo Dome & Around
  • Shiodome & Shinbashi
  • Hamamatsucho
  • Yanaka & Nezu
  • Skytree & Around
  • Kiyosumi Shirakawa
  • Aoyama & Omotesando
  • Shimokitazawa
  • Futako Tamagawa
  • Shinagawa & Tennozu
  • Azabu Juban
  • Tokyo Tower & Around
  • Todoroki Valley
  • Haneda & Around
  • Oshima Island
  • Toshima Island
  • Niijima Island
  • Shikinejima Island
  • Kozushima Island
  • Miyakejima Island
  • Mikurajima Island
  • Hachijojima Island
  • Aogashima Island
  • Chichijima Island
  • Hahajima Island
  • Mitaka, Musashino & Around
  • Chofu, Fuchu & Around
  • Kunitachi, Tachikawa & Around
  • Nishi Tokyo
  • Mt. Takao & Around
  • Okutama & Around

Enjoy Waterfront Activities

  • Adventure on the Water
  • Family Fun with Amphibious Tours
  • Fun and Fishing in Tokyo
  • Get on a bicycle and cruise Tokyo's waterfronts!

Experience Tokyo by Boat

  • Tokyo Yakatabune Boat Cruises
  • Traditional Pleasure Cruising, Modern Twists
  • Cruising The Rivers and Open Waters of Tokyo
  • Scenic Views from the Water

Walk on Tokyo's Waterfront

  • Spectacular views from the dams of Tokyo
  • Tokyo’s Most Insta-worthy Bridges
  • Enjoy the Oceanside at Tokyo Bay Beaches
  • Tokyo Water Bus Pier Areas
  • Tokyo’s Tranquil Lakes and Ponds

See Riverside Tokyo

  • Dyeing Workshops of the Kanda River
  • Enjoy Barbeque Along Tokyo’s Rivers
  • Riverside Walks in Tokyo
  • A Sumida River Stroll

Explore Nature on Tokyo's Waterfront

  • Tokyo’s Refreshing River Valleys
  • Seasonal Views from the Water
  • Pink Rivers in the Spring
  • Seeing Fireflies at Tokyo's Picturesque Waterways

Discover the History and Culture of Tokyo's Waterfront

  • Tracing the history of the Arakawa Floodway
  • Brewed in Tokyo: Crafting Premium Sake and Craft Beer with Local Water
  • A Link to Tokyo’s Past Through an Edo-period Scroll
  • Historic Waterfront Areas of Tokyo
  • Mt. Fuji & Fuji-Q Highland
  • Izu Peninsula: Atami & Shimoda
  • Tokyo Disney Resort®

@tokyotokyooldmeetsnew

Share your photos by using #TokyoTokyo

World Natural Heritage
in Japan

  • Visit Tokyo
  • About This Site
  • Font Size and Color

Trip Advisor

Copyright © Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau. All rights reserved.

about tokyo tourism

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo (����, Tōkyō) is Japan's capital and the world's most populous metropolis. It is also one of Japan's 47 prefectures , consisting of 23 central city wards and multiple cities, towns and villages west of the city center. The Izu and Ogasawara Islands are also part of Tokyo.

Prior to 1868, Tokyo was known as Edo. Previously a small castle town , Edo became Japan's political center in 1603 when Tokugawa Ieyasu established his feudal government there. A few decades later, Edo had grown into one of the world's largest cities. With the Meiji Restoration of 1868, the emperor and capital moved from Kyoto to Edo, which was renamed Tokyo ("Eastern Capital"). Large parts of Tokyo were destroyed in the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and the air raids of 1945.

Today, Tokyo offers a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping , entertainment, culture and dining to its visitors. The city's history can be appreciated in districts such as Asakusa and in many excellent museums , historic temples and gardens . Contrary to common perception, Tokyo also offers a number of attractive green spaces in the city center and within relatively short train rides at its outskirts.

Top attractions in Tokyo

about tokyo tourism

Tsukiji Outer Market •

about tokyo tourism

Akihabara •

about tokyo tourism

Koishikawa Korakuen •

about tokyo tourism

Hama Rikyu •

about tokyo tourism

Imperial East Gardens •

about tokyo tourism

Imperial Palace •

about tokyo tourism

Ginza •

about tokyo tourism

Nihonbashi •

about tokyo tourism

Yasukuni Shrine

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo Dome City

about tokyo tourism

State Guest House

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo National Museum ••

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo Skytree ••

about tokyo tourism

Asakusa •

about tokyo tourism

Sensoji Temple •

about tokyo tourism

Edo-Tokyo Museum •

about tokyo tourism

Rikugien •

about tokyo tourism

Ueno Park •

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo Solamachi •

about tokyo tourism

Botanical Garden

about tokyo tourism

Sumida Aquarium

about tokyo tourism

Sumida Hokusai Museum

about tokyo tourism

Kappabashi Street

about tokyo tourism

Shibuya ••

about tokyo tourism

Shinjuku ••

about tokyo tourism

Meiji Shrine •

about tokyo tourism

Harajuku •

about tokyo tourism

Shinjuku Gyoen •

about tokyo tourism

Yoyogi Park

about tokyo tourism

Government Building

about tokyo tourism

Nakano Broadway

about tokyo tourism

Yebisu Garden Place

about tokyo tourism

Odaiba •

about tokyo tourism

Institute for Nature •

about tokyo tourism

Toyosu Market •

about tokyo tourism

Roppongi Hills •

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo Tower

about tokyo tourism

Sengakuji Temple

about tokyo tourism

Zojoji Temple

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo Water Bus

about tokyo tourism

Kyu Shiba Rikyu

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo Midtown

about tokyo tourism

Akasaka Sacas

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo DisneySea ••

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo Disneyland ••

about tokyo tourism

Shibamata •

about tokyo tourism

Ghibli Museum •

about tokyo tourism

Mount Mitake •

about tokyo tourism

Takaosan •

about tokyo tourism

Edo Open Air Museum

about tokyo tourism

Kiyosumi Garden

about tokyo tourism

Showa Memorial Park

about tokyo tourism

Todoroki Valley

about tokyo tourism

Kasai Rinkai Koen

about tokyo tourism

Ikspiari Mall

about tokyo tourism

Makuhari Messe

about tokyo tourism

The Making of Harry Potter

about tokyo tourism

Sanja Matsuri •

about tokyo tourism

Kanda Matsuri •

about tokyo tourism

Japan Mobility Show •

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo Game Show

about tokyo tourism

Sanno Matsuri

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo Marathon

about tokyo tourism

Ceatec Japan

about tokyo tourism

Nikko •••

about tokyo tourism

Kamakura ••

about tokyo tourism

Fuji Five Lakes •

about tokyo tourism

Hakone •

about tokyo tourism

Kusatsu Onsen •

about tokyo tourism

Yokohama •

about tokyo tourism

Izu Peninsula •

about tokyo tourism

Ikaho Onsen

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo by interest

about tokyo tourism

Getting there and around

Itinerary ideas.

about tokyo tourism

  • Tranquil Meiji Shrine
  • Urban exploring in Shibuya
  • Shopping in Shinjuku and youth culture in Harajuku

about tokyo tourism

  • Ancient Sensoji Temple
  • Cruise down the Sumida River
  • Shopping in modern Odaiba

about tokyo tourism

  • Exploring Shinjuku's busy streets
  • Relaxing in Shinjuku Gyoen
  • Taking in the skyscraper district

about tokyo tourism

  • Exploring Asakusa area

about tokyo tourism

  • Serene Imperial East Gardens
  • Lively Ginza shopping district

about tokyo tourism

  • Old-fashioned post town
  • Artsy Tennozu Isle
  • Waterfront walk

Questions? Ask in our forum .

about tokyo tourism

Links and Resources

Tokyo metropolitan government, hotels around tokyo, tokyo hotel guide.

How to choose the best places to stay in Tokyo

about tokyo tourism

Experiences around Tokyo

about tokyo tourism

  • Tours & Experiences
  • Tailor-made Trips
  • Bahasa Indonesia

We are happy to see you again!

Continue with

Or use email.

No Account? Create one

Create account

Already have an account? Sign in

Quickly Sign up with

I agree to Japan Travel's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy . Terms of--> and acknowledge that Japan Travel's Privacy--> applies to me.-->

Email reset password link

Please check your inbox and click the link we will send to you.

region image

Tradition meets modern in Japan's capital

Top attractions in tokyo.

Chidorigafuchi

Chidorigafuchi

Art Aquarium Museum

Art Aquarium Museum

Meiji Jingu Shrine

Meiji Jingu Shrine

Sensoji Temple

Sensoji Temple

Around tokyo.

Minato

Laden with embassies and packed full of international and cosmopolitan leanings, Minato City, or Minato-ku, is one of Tokyo's 23 special wards. With its shrines, parks, museums and landmarks,..

Omotesando

Known as the Champs-Élysées of Tokyo, Omotesando’s tree-lined streets are filled with beautiful shops, funky cafes and great restaurants. It is also the gateway to the entrance to the Meiji..

Chuo

Chuo City, located in the heart of Tokyo, is a lively ward that seamlessly balances modernization and tradition. Chuo’s business district, Nihonbashi, is filled with towering skyscrapers, expensive..

About Tokyo

Tokyo (東京, Tōkyō) is the nation’s capital, the site of the 2020 Summer Olympics and the most populous city in the world – there’s no shortage of places to see and things to do in Tokyo. While that means you’ll inevitably have to leave some things off your itinerary, it also means that there’s something for everyone.

Tokyo’s center, the 23 wards, combine some of the world’s busiest areas with remnants of old Japan; not far from Shibuya is the holy Meiji Jingu , while the 634-meter tall Tokyo Skytree and the iconic Senso-ji in Asakusa are within walking distance of each other. Shinjuku and Roppongi are two vibrant nightlife spots, yet they’re a short train ride away from Ueno Zoo and the Tsukiji Fish Market .

Right in the middle of it all is the Imperial Palace , a popular jogging route. Beautiful nature in the Okutama area and the Izu and Ogasawara Islands will make you forget that you’re still in Tokyo.

  • Theme Parks around Tokyo
  • Viewpoints in Tokyo
  • Tokyo Cherry Blossom Spots

Tokyo Top 10

  • Recommended

Miso Specialty Store "Sano Miso" Ginza

Miso Specialty Store "Sano Miso" Ginza

A Day in Shinagawa, Tokyo

A Day in Shinagawa, Tokyo

Discovering Cinnamoroll in Shinagawa City

Discovering Cinnamoroll in Shinagawa City

CARNIVAL TOKYO

CARNIVAL TOKYO

2-Day Hachijojima Retreat: Recharge Your Mind and Body

2-Day Hachijojima Retreat: Recharge Your Mind and Body

Retro Arcade Gaming at Akihabara’s RETRO:G

Retro Arcade Gaming at Akihabara’s RETRO:G

Tokyo Trending with TripAdvisor for 2024

Tokyo Trending with TripAdvisor for 2024

3-Day Exploration of Kozushima

3-Day Exploration of Kozushima

Extraordinary Experiences in the Great Nature of Izu-Oshima, the Closest Island From Central Tokyo

Extraordinary Experiences in the Great Nature of Izu-Oshima, the Closest Island From Central Tokyo

veJin: Vegan Ramen

veJin: Vegan Ramen

Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo

Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo

Hachiko Statue in Shibuya

Hachiko Statue in Shibuya

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing

Taylor Swift Eras Tour

Taylor Swift Eras Tour

Kirby Cafe Tokyo

Kirby Cafe Tokyo

AnimeJapan

Kill Bill Inspiration at Gonpachi

Tokyo Sakura Garden Spring Festival

Tokyo Sakura Garden Spring Festival

St. Patrick's Day Parade Tokyo

St. Patrick's Day Parade Tokyo

What is a Japanese Head Spa?

What is a Japanese Head Spa?

Upcoming tokyo events.

Hinode Cherry Blossom Festival

Hinode Cherry Blossom Festival

Running for over 30 years now, the Hinode Sakura Festival is a wonderful way to celebrate the best of the blossoms on the outskirts..

2024 TOKYO E-PRIX

2024 TOKYO E-PRIX

Formula E is the world’s first all-electric international single-seater championship. This innovative competition is not only ..

Sumo at Yasukuni Shrine

Sumo at Yasukuni Shrine

Each year Yasukuni Shrine holds a ceremonial sumo event where you can watch sumo wrestling for free

Where to eat in Tokyo

Kirby Cafe Tokyo

This new permanent cafe is located on the 4th floor of Solamachi, Tokyo Skytree, and is sure to bring a smile to any Kirby fan.

Kill Bill Inspiration at Gonpachi

Gonpachi, the restaurant made famous by Quentin Tarantino in his 2004 film Kill Bill, serves delicious Japanese food to locals and..

Shirohige's Cream Puff Factory

Shirohige's Cream Puff Factory

Looking for the cutest cream puffs in town? Look no further! Shiro-Hige's Cream Puff Factory is the place for all you Studio..

Places to stay in Tokyo

MUJI HOTEL GINZA & Global Flagship Store

MUJI HOTEL GINZA & Global Flagship Store

MUJI GINZA occupies a new 10-storey building that houses the iconic brand’s global flagship store, MUJI HOTEL, restaurants and..

Couchsurfing in Japan

Couchsurfing in Japan

Japan's reputation as an expensive destination to visit can be off-putting, so Couchsurfing is the ideal option for advent..

Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

Hotel Gracery Shinjuku offers a full-service oasis in the center of the bustling city.

Latest Tokyo Reports

Extraordinary Experiences in the Great Nature of Izu-Oshima, the Closest Island From Central Tokyo

Extraordinary Experiences in the Great Nature of Iz...

This article reflects a two-day journey I partook in on the island to sample its bounty. The below paragraphs are peppered wit..

2-Day Hachijojima Retreat: Recharge Your Mind and Body

Explore an exotic side of Tokyo on Hachijojima! This island paradise, situated about 287 km south of Tokyo, is only about an hour's..

Dug Jazz Cafe & Bar

Dug Jazz Cafe & Bar

Dug is a classic retro jazz bar in Shinjuku with a cozy vibe and great ambiance. Spend the afternoon or evening listening quietly..

Let us know how we can help.

Tokyo   Travel Guide

about tokyo tourism

19 Essential Things to Do in Tokyo + Neighborhoods to Visit

With more than 13 million residents to entertain, Tokyo has a lot going on. Start your morning off with breakfast sushi at the world-famous Tsukiji Outer Market , then let yourself get lost in Japan's vast and interesting history at the Tokyo

  • All Things To Do
  • 1-Day Itinerary
  • 2-Day Itinerary
  • 3-Day Itinerary

about tokyo tourism

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Just to the west of downtown Tokyo lies a gorgeous urban oasis. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden comprises 144 acres of green space and is unique in that it incorporates three landscaping styles – Japanese traditional, French formal and English garden. During the spring, the park gets an extra boost in visitors for its vibrant display of cherry blossoms. If you plan on visiting during this beautiful time, make like a local and come to the park equipped with picnic supplies. Autumn is another popular time to visit thanks to the bright fall foliage, which usually peaks between mid-November and mid-December.

Travelers say the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. Even if you don't have a couple hours to spare for a picnic, visitors say a short stroll is enough to take up the park's peaceful atmosphere. Travelers also report that there are plenty of amenities within the park, including restrooms, places to eat, as well as a greenhouse and teahouse.

about tokyo tourism

Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa free

The oldest religious site in Tokyo is also its most visited. The Senso-ji Temple sees about 30 million annual visitors and its inception dates all the way back to year 628. Despite its claim to antiquity, however, the structures that currently stand are relatively new reconstructions of previous edifices (during World War II, nearly the entire temple was razed). The Senso-ji Temple is dedicated to Asakusa Kannon, the Buddhist god of mercy and happiness. According to legend, two fishermen struck gold and found a statue of the god while fishing on the Sumida River. The Senso-ji shrine is dedicated to this lucky catch and features a small homage to the fisherman who caught the statue. Unfortunately, while here, you won't be able to see the actual statue. It is there, but it isn't on public display (it never has been). Either way, Buddhists and interested tourists alike flock to this attraction with the hopes that being in the presence of Kannon's healing powers will rub off on them. After you've properly toured Senso-ji, take some time to check out the shops that line Nakamise Dori, which you'll find on the way to the temple. 

The majority of travelers enjoyed their experience at the Senso-ji Temple, with some saying a visit to Tokyo isn’t complete until make a stop here. Visitors found the temple to be beautiful and enjoyed admiring its grand stature and intricate architectural details. The only complaint among travelers was with the attraction and all the activity surrounding it; Senso-ji can get so crowded that it can be difficult to be able to simply admire the attraction. If you don't want to share space with throngs of tourists, visitors suggest coming early morning or late at night. 

about tokyo tourism

Meiji Shrine Meiji Shrine free

The Meiji Shrine is a Shinto (Japan's original religion) shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Japanese history credits Meiji for modernizing Japan by incorporating Western principles into Japanese society, including adopting a cabinet system into government. After the emperor's death in 1912 and that of his consort in 1914, the Japanese commemorated their contributions with the Meiji Shrine. While the buildings are certainly worth visiting, the surrounding forest (considered part of the vast Yoyogi Park) is a sight to see as well. That's because 100,000 of the trees standing were all donated by Japanese people from around the country as a thank you to the emperor.

While at such a sacred site, take time to partake in traditional rituals. When entering the shrine, you'll first see the Torii , or the shrine's large archway. It's traditional to bow once entering, then again when you leave. To foreigners, the Temizusha may appear to be a drinking fountain, but it's actually a cleansing station where visitors have the opportunity to purify themselves with holy water. It's common to wash your hands and rinse your mouth out, but don't drink the water. When approaching the main shrine, it's customary to pay your respects by bowing twice, then clapping your hands twice and bow once again. Carrying out such respects are optional, the rules of the shrine are not. Don't photograph the interior of the buildings; don't eat, drink or smoke unless you're in designated areas.

about tokyo tourism

Popular Tours

Mt Fuji, Hakone Lake Ashi Cruise Bullet Train Day Trip from Tokyo

Mt Fuji, Hakone Lake Ashi Cruise Bullet Train Day Trip from Tokyo

(5697 reviews)

from $ 148.57

Mt Fuji and Hakone 1-Day Bus Tour Return by Bullet Train

Mt Fuji and Hakone 1-Day Bus Tour Return by Bullet Train

(8745 reviews)

from $ 159.31

Private Tokyo Tour with a Local Guide: Tailored to Your Interests

Private Tokyo Tour with a Local Guide: Tailored to Your Interests

(503 reviews)

from $ 120.50

about tokyo tourism

Ueno Park Ueno Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Take a 20-minute walk northwest of Ueno Park to the more than 100,000-square-foot Yanaka Cemetery, the first public burial ground in Tokyo and an oasis of foliage and historical importance. It’s particularly beautiful to visit during cherry blossom season. – Kristin Braswell

Considered the first public park in Tokyo, Ueno is an ideal place for a leisurely stroll in the city. Formerly part of Kaneiji Temple, Ueno Park is now home to the Ueno Zoo (considered Japan's oldest zoo), six museums, a number of shrines and temples, and more than 1,000 cherry blossom trees. During late March and early April, the park’s canopy of cherry blossoms attract visitors from all over the world for hanami parties – which is when people gather under the trees for picnics and socializing. Museums on the grounds include the Tokyo National Museum , the National Museum for Western Art, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum and the National Science Museum. 

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo Tower Tokyo Tower

The Japanese iteration of the Eiffel Tower serves a predominately practical purpose. The orange and white tower, which stands 1,092 feet tall, is a radio and television broadcasting structure supporting 62 miles of frequencies. The tower also caters to tourists, offering two observation decks, one at 490 feet (the main observatory) and one at 820 feet (the special observatory). The observation decks offer 360-degree views of Tokyo's sprawling cityscape and come equipped with placards that point out notable buildings in the skyline. And if you visit on a really clear day, you'll be able to spot Mount Fuji in the distance. The Tokyo Tower also has its own cafe, where patrons can sip tea while admiring the views, as well as Club 333, a music venue that hosts performances daily. And if you're on the hunt for souvenirs, travelers say this is a surprisingly great place to peruse thanks to all the on-site shops.

The best time to visit the Tokyo Tower is at night, according to reviewers. That's because the tower lights up beautifully, and often in multiple colors depending on when you visit. You'll also encounter stunning vistas from atop Tokyo SkyTree, a much taller tower located about 8 miles northwest, but you'll have to combat hordes of fellow tourists. Recent visitors said of the two towers, this one is less crowded.   

about tokyo tourism

Shibuya Crossing Shibuya Crossing free

U.S. News Insider Tip: After the rush of Shibuya Crossing, walk 15 minutes to Cat Street, a pedestrianized stretch with fewer crowds and chic shopping. Pop into TRUNK hotel for a coffee or a cocktail in its popular lobby, which is open to the public. – Kristin Braswell

Behold: a whirlwind of bodies moving somehow in seamlessly concerted motion at Shibuya Crossing – a must-see in Tokyo. The popular pedestrian scramble located in front of the Shibuya Station Hachiko exit is considered the busiest intersection in the world, welcoming upward of 3,000 people every two minutes across its five major crosswalks. The hypnotic waltz under Shibuya’s towering neon buildings is quintessential Tokyo: busy, yet somehow still orderly and seamless. A major transportation hub, Shibuya Station connects the city’s major neighborhoods, including Harajuku and Roppongi. 

about tokyo tourism

Ginza Ginza free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Tucked on an alleyway, Kagari Ramen offers a not-to-miss truffle chicken ramen that people begin to line up for in the early afternoon. Get there early and grab a ticket for entrance.  – Kristin Braswell

New York has Fifth Avenue, London has Bond Street, Paris has the Champs-Élysées and Tokyo has Ginza. The neighborhood is a shopper's paradise, housing all types of storefronts from affordable, big-name retailers, such as H&M and Zara, to upscale design houses, such as Dior, Armani and Cartier. You can also find specialty stores selling traditional items, such as kimonos, incense and chopsticks. There's also a plethora of Hello Kitty products at the Sanrio flagship store located here, as well as all the toys your kid's heart desires at the massive Hakuhinkan Toy Park. 

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo Station Tokyo Station free

An underground maze and city unto itself in Marunouchi business district, Tokyo Station is a major gateway for travelers arriving and departing the city. More than 3,000 trains come through the station each day, making it the busiest transportation hub in Japan. Some of the most popular trains that make a stop at Tokyo station include the JR Yamanote line, which circles through some of the city’s most famous commercial neighborhoods, as well as various bullet trains (called Shinkansen) that transport travelers throughout Japan – from Kyoto to as far south as Kyushu. A terminal on the Yaesu side exit is the stopping point for a number of buses that connect to the rest of the country, as well as Tokyo’s two airports, Haneda and Narita.

If you get overwhelmed in the station, you wouldn’t be the first. Fortunately, there are a number of English-speaking tourist stands that can help you navigate the best way to your destination. These include the JR EAST Travel Service center outside of the Marunouchi North Exit ticket gate, which offers support for international tourists, including directions to exchanging money; it's open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. It’s also a popular location to pick up the Japan Rail Pass, a transportation option sold exclusively to tourists who enter Japan on a temporary visitor visa that provides discounted unlimited rides around the country for a set amount of time. You can learn more about how to purchase the pass and the specific routes and costs here . Other central information centers in Tokyo Station include the Central Corridor and Marunouchi Central information counters, open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. 

about tokyo tourism

Mt. Fuji Private Tour with English Speaking Driver

(223 reviews)

from $ 511.89

Official Street Go-Kart Tour - Tokyo Bay Shop

Official Street Go-Kart Tour - Tokyo Bay Shop

(1187 reviews)

from $ 128.31

Private Custom Tour: Tokyo in a Day

Private Custom Tour: Tokyo in a Day

(832 reviews)

from $ 176.93

about tokyo tourism

Akihabara Akihabara free

Akihabara is nirvana for techies. Tokyo's premier electronics district, which is also referred to as "Akiba," has gadgets of all kinds found in booths on side streets and main street mega department stores. You'll spot the latest technology on the shelves, which will probably put your equipment to shame. And if you're in the market for hard-to-find bibs or bobs, you're likely to find that here, too. If you're unsure where to start, stop at the larger-than-life Yodobashi Camera store (often billed as the largest electronics store in the world) or stroll along the neighborhood's main street, Chuo Dori, which becomes car-free on Sundays for select hours. In addition to being an electronics hub, Akihabara also caters to serious gamers, anime and manga lovers. Here, you'll find loads of gaming arcades as well as shops and street stalls selling comics and character figurines. You'll also probably spot a few cosplayers casually walking down the street. 

While Akihabara is no doubt unique, recent travelers had mixed reviews about the district. Those who expressed interest in anime loved their visit, saying you can't leave Tokyo without experiencing the world Akihabara has to offer for fans. Those without a greater interest in the subject matter enjoyed the buzzing activity and plethora of neon signage that permeated the area, but ended up growing bored after a period of time. Some were offended by the inappropriate nature of some of the anime culture (think: maid cafes), so this area may not be suitable for all travelers. Visitors solely interested in shopping for electronics felt overwhelmed by the options and recommended researching in advance to maximize your time in the neighborhood. 

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo National Museum Tokyo National Museum

If you're looking to learn a little (or a lot) about Japan's history, the Tokyo National Museum is the place to go. This museum is one of the country's most expansive, housing about 120,000 pieces of art and artifacts that cover the longest recorded history of Japan. Strolling through the halls of its numerous buildings, you'll spot relics such as samurai armor and swords (a traveler favorite), delicate pottery, kimonos, calligraphy, paintings, and much more, some of which are designated as national treasures and “important cultural properties” by the Japanese government. In addition to artifacts from Japan's history, you'll also find pieces from all across the Asian continent, including Buddhist scrolls that date all the way back to the 7th century.

Travelers were impressed with all that the Tokyo National Museum has to offer. Even some who admitted they aren't "museum people" enjoyed the variety of unique artifacts on display. Travelers appreciated that the museum featured English translations, something that some visitors noticed other Tokyo top attractions lacked (like the Ghibli Museum ). Museum goers also say that there is so much to see in the Tokyo National Museum that you probably need an entire day if you want to get through everything. If you don't have enough time to do this (or just don't want to) the best thing to do is get a map of the museum beforehand and pick what you want to do before you venture in. 

about tokyo tourism

Odaiba Odaiba free

Envision a mini Atlantis rising out of the water, conveniently right next to downtown Tokyo. That's Odaiba. This neighborhood and human-made island situated on the Tokyo Bay is a hub of entertainment, eateries and eye-catching architecture, including the futuristic-looking Fuji Television building and the life-size Unicorn Gundam Statue. Some of the area's top attractions include the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation and the relaxing Odaiba Seaside Park, which comes equipped with an artificial beach and Tokyo's own Statue of Liberty (scaled down). 

Along with the Legoland Discovery Center, there’s also the DiverCity Tokyo Plaza and Decks Tokyo Beach facility, which offers lots in the way of dining and shopping in addition to entertainment options. 

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building free

There are plenty of skyscrapers that provide a bird's-eye lookout in Tokyo, including Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree. So what makes the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Tower special? It's free! The nearly 800-foot-tall building houses two observatories (North and South observatory) that are the highest vantage points (at around 660 feet) that you can reach in the city without having to hand over some yen. 

Travelers loved their experience at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building because it was so fuss-free. Free admission, few lines, speedy elevators, helpful customer service and no time restrictions at the top was ideal for travelers who were looking to take their time with the incredible views. The observatories offer 360-degree views of the city and visitors say on a clear day, Mount Fuji is visible in the distance. If you can, travelers suggest visiting at sunset; the transition from day to night, when some say truly Tokyo comes to life, is magical.

about tokyo tourism

Daikanyama Daikanyama free

If you’re looking to recharge in Tokyo, consider Daikanyama, a tree-lined neighborhood with a trendy, quiet side that’s often referred to as Tokyo’s own Brooklyn. Just south of Shibuya, the district is a peaceful retreat from the towering buildings of its neighbors. The pedestrian-only streets are filled with boutique shops, restaurants, small parks, cafes, and the city’s biggest bookstore: Daikanyama T-Site. Plan to spend several hours roaming T-site’s three buildings, which are filled with a collection of books, magazines and music. Then, have a coffee or cocktail at its on-site cafe, Anjin Library & Lounge, which is filled with plush brown leather couches and a number of tables. Log Road is another must-see in the neighborhood. Built on the train tracks of the old Tokyu train line, this outdoor shopping complex features a brewery and a bakery that are housed in wood cottage buildings surrounded by greenery and a number of places to sit and picnic. Daikanyama is also popular for brunch spots like Garden House Crafts and Ivy Place. 

Visitors call T-Site one of the best bookstores they’ve ever visited, reminiscent of a beautifully designed college campus. They call Daikanyama a mix of modern and traditional Japan and recommend visiting Saigoyama Park for a stroll and sunset watching. 

about tokyo tourism

1-Day Tokyo Bus Tour

(5710 reviews)

from $ 117.75

Mt. Fuji Private Tour by Car with Pick-up from Tokyo

Mt. Fuji Private Tour by Car with Pick-up from Tokyo

(181 reviews)

from $ 530.72

Tokyo Sumo Practice Show with Chicken Hot Pot and Photo

Tokyo Sumo Practice Show with Chicken Hot Pot and Photo

(10 reviews)

from $ 108.05

about tokyo tourism

National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)

The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, commonly referred to as the Miraikan, attests to Tokyo's entrepreneurial spirit and penchant for science and technological innovation. This high-tech museum features a plethora of exciting interactive displays spread across three themed permanent exhibits. In "Explore The Frontiers," visitors can learn about space exploration by stepping into a model of the International Space Station. There's also "Discover Your Earth," where you'll find a large LED-paneled Earth sculpture, as well as the robotics-heavy "Create Your Future" exhibit. Make sure you get an eyeful of Honda's impressive ASIMO robot while here. ASIMO has opposable thumbs, can run, and even kick a soccer ball (as it did with President Obama in his 2014 visit to the museum). Kids will particularly enjoy the displays as they can touch, climb on and play with many of them. The museum also features science workshops for kids, talks from researchers and the Dome Theater GAIA. 

Despite its draw, many travelers offered mixed reviews of the museum. Some reported feeling like kids, amazed at the vast amount of things to learn and do, while other adults said the museum is best suited for children. Some visitors also found the exhibits to be lacking, saying the information provided was very basic. Those who did bring their kids in tow said they had a ball.

about tokyo tourism

Imperial Palace Imperial Palace free

You'd think the Imperial Palace would be mobbed with tourists, but it's not. You can credit the lack of crowds to an application policy, which limits the number of visitors. That's because the Imperial Palace is home to the Emperor of Japan and his immediate family. And before that, it was the residence for some of Japan's most important figures, including Emperor Meiji (credited for modernizing Japan) and rulers during the Edo Period (the time period before Japan was modernized by Meiji). Because of its significant importance in Japanese society, admittance to the site is hard to get (you have to put in your application several weeks in advance) and access inside the actual palace is even more restricted.

As such, most travelers suggest skipping the application entirely (those who went on the tour were disappointed with how little of the palace is open to visitors) and admiring the compound from afar. Visitors also say the East Gardens, which are part of the Imperial Palace complex, are much more of a sight to see. This flourishing green space has plenty of shady spots and open fields, perfect for relaxing. And during cherry blossom season, these gardens are a choice spot for locals looking to enjoy the seasonal foliage. 

about tokyo tourism

Shimokitazawa Shimokitazawa free

A hub for vintage shops, cafes and restaurants, Shimokitazawa continues to gain popularity among Tokyo’s young crowds and students who are drawn to its bohemian energy. Commonly known as "Shimokita," the largely residential district in west Tokyo’s Setagaya neighborhood was once a haven for hippies who migrated to the neighborhood in the 1970s. Today, a network of streets are home to busy cafes, indie cinemas, music venues and tons of thrift shopping. A philosophy called “Shimokita style” embraces reusing clothing and antiques, but also a slower pace to enjoy life. 

Small, independently owned stores are the neighborhood’s pride, with Ocean Blvd. store – just a few steps from Shimokitazawa Station, being a great starting point for thrift shopping. Other popular thrift stores include Chicago, Flamingo and New York Joe Exchange. 

about tokyo tourism

Ghibli Museum Ghibli Museum

Both avid and amateur anime fans love the Ghibli Museum. The museum showcases the work of Hayao Miyazaki's Studio Ghibli – the famous Japanese animation company that produced films like "Spirited Away" and "Ponyo." Don't expect formal, indoor exhibits. The facility's quirky interior design mimics the animation studio. There's also a play area for kids (which comes equipped with a life-size, fuzzy Cat Bus), a reading room full of books recommended by the museum and a rooftop garden that features character sculptures, including the silent robots from "Castle In The Sky." You can even watch a short film that plays exclusively at the museum and rotates each month. 

Considering how difficult it is to secure tickets and the museum's removed location, travelers say visiting this attraction is only worth the extra effort if you're a Miyazaki fan. Devotees loved having the opportunity to get lost in the director's magical world, which many say the museum executed just about perfectly. The only complaint? The expensive gift shop. Even avid fans were disappointed with some of the shop's high prices. English-speaking travelers also warned that English signs and placards are few and far between here. 

about tokyo tourism

Shinjuku Golden Gai Shinjuku Golden Gai

Explore some 200 bars in this narrow maze of alleyways. A remnant of post-war 1950s Tokyo, this district was once a black market that evolved into a number of small, makeshift bars. Today, stretched across six dimly lit streets (called yokocho) in Tokyo’s Shinjuku neighborhood, Golden Gai (which means "golden block") is jampacked – literally – with bars that are ideal for any night owl. Most bars open around 8 p.m., though many don’t get lively until nearly midnight. Be aware that most bars charge an entrance fee for a seat, which is typically around 1,000 yen (about $7). As you roam Golden Gai, your biggest question will be which bar to choose. Start with any themes that may catch your eye, like Albatross, a two-floor Gothic-inspired den that has enough room for small groups, or Happy, a tiny bar that features vintage rock and soul albums. There are a few food options in Golden Gai as well, like a noodle shop called Ramen Nagi, located on the second floor of a wooden house. 

You should be prepared to rub shoulders with strangers, as many of Golden Gai’s bars are only a few feet wide and seat a handful of people. Because bars have limited seating, some may display signs that say “regulars only” or “no tourists,” and it's important to respect that. Don’t worry though, there are plenty of tourist-friendly and English-speaking options to choose from. 

about tokyo tourism

Scenic Spots of Mt Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi 1 Day Bus Tour

(240 reviews)

from $ 83.06

Official Street Go-Kart in Shibuya

Official Street Go-Kart in Shibuya

(884 reviews)

from $ 101.30

Tokyo Studio Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Film Appreciation Tour

Tokyo Studio Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Film Appreciation Tour

(340 reviews)

from $ 175.58

about tokyo tourism

Tsukiji Outer Market Tsukiji Outer Market free

You don’t have to be a sushi connoisseur to enjoy the Tsukiji Outer Market, which offers an unforgettable experience. Even before Tokyo’s international wholesale fish market – the largest in the world – moved to the Toyosu district in 2018, the Tsukiji Outer Market was a popular place to buy a variety of food and kitchenware. Today, hundreds of different types of seafood are sold here, ranging from basics (like tuna) to the exotic. If all the excitement and bartering starts to make you a little hungry, don't hesitate to grab a bite here. There are numerous sushi stalls and tiny restaurants in the market (Sushi Sei Honten and Sushizanmai are popular spots) that serve fish at their freshest. But if you aren't much of a seafood fan, no matter. There's still something for you here. The market features a few ready-made meal stalls that aren't all seafood-based, including Mosuke Dango, where you'll find sweet dumplings. What’s more, retail stalls selling kitchenware items like knives and tableware also set up shop.

Recent visitors offered mixed reviews for the Tsukiji Outer Market, noting that prices were higher than the original market that moved to Toyosu. If you're not a fan of seafood, or you don't enjoy overstimulating and/or crowded places, visitors say this is not the attraction for you. Travelers say this market is huge and very busy, especially on Saturdays. Those who do enjoy seafood will no doubt be in awe of the vast array of fresh and delectable seafood options available, so much so that reviewers strongly suggest coming hungry as you'll probably end up eating more than you planned. Travelers were also delighted in the market's lack of a pungent, fishy smell. 

about tokyo tourism

Explore More of Tokyo

Imperial Hotel

Best Hotels

World Map

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

about tokyo tourism

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

about tokyo tourism

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

about tokyo tourism

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

about tokyo tourism

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

about tokyo tourism

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

about tokyo tourism

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

about tokyo tourism

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

about tokyo tourism

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

about tokyo tourism

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

about tokyo tourism

  • Media & Industry
  • Meetings & Events
  • Select Language 简体中文 繁體中文(香港) 繁體中文(臺灣) India (English) Bahasa Indonesia 한국어 ภาษาไทย Tiếng Việt Singapore (English) Philippines (English) Malaysia (English) Australia/New Zealand (English) Français Deutsch Italiano Español United Kingdom (English) Nordic countries(English) Canada (English) Canada (Français) United States (English) Mexico (español) Português العربية Japan(日本語) Global (English)
  • India (English)
  • Bahasa Indonesia
  • Singapore (English)
  • Philippines (English)
  • Malaysia (English)
  • Australia/New Zealand (English)
  • United Kingdom (English)
  • Nordic countries(English)
  • Canada (English)
  • Canada (Français)
  • United States (English)
  • Mexico (español)
  • Global (English)
  • Fujiyoshida
  • Shimonoseki
  • Ishigaki Island
  • Miyako Island
  • Kerama Island
  • Tokyo Island
  • Koka & Shigaraki
  • Hida Takayama
  • Ginza, Nihonbashi
  • Beppu & Yufuin (Onsen)
  • Ginzan Onsen
  • Nagasaki Islands

about tokyo tourism

  • Kumano Kodo
  • Shikoku Karst
  • Amami Oshima
  • Hachimantai
  • Omihachiman
  • Aizuwakamatsu

about tokyo tourism

  • Diving in Japan
  • Skiing in Japan
  • Seasonal Flowers in Japan
  • Sustainable Outdoors
  • Off the Beaten Track in Japan
  • Scenic Spots
  • World Heritage
  • Home Stays & Farm Stays

about tokyo tourism

  • Japanese Gardens
  • Japanese Crafts
  • Temple Stays
  • Heritage Stays
  • Festivals and Events
  • Theater in Japan
  • Japanese Tea Ceremony
  • Cultural Experiences in Japan
  • Culture in Japan

about tokyo tourism

  • Local Cuisine Eastern Japan
  • Local Cuisine Western Japan
  • Local Street Food
  • Japan's Local Ekiben
  • Japanese Whisky
  • Vegetarian and Vegan Guide
  • Sushi in Japan Guide
  • Japanese Sake Breweries

about tokyo tourism

  • Art Museums
  • Architecture
  • Performing Arts
  • Art Festivals
  • Japanese Anime and Comics
  • Japanese Ceramics
  • Local Crafts

about tokyo tourism

  • Scenic Night Views
  • Natural Wonders
  • Theme Parks
  • Samurai & Ninja
  • Iconic Architecture

about tokyo tourism

  • Wellness Travel in Japan
  • Japanese Ryokan Guide
  • A Guide to Stargazing in Japan
  • Relaxation in Japan
  • Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku)

about tokyo tourism

  • Experiences in Japan
  • Enjoy my Japan
  • National Parks
  • Japan's Local Treasures
  • Japan Heritage
  • Snow Like No Other
  • Wonder Around Japan

about tokyo tourism

  • Visa Information
  • Getting to Japan
  • Airport Access
  • COVID-19: Practical Information for Traveling to Japan
  • Anime Tourism
  • Countryside Stays
  • Accessible Tourism
  • Hokkaido Great Outdoors
  • Scenic World Heritage in Tohoku
  • Shikoku’s Nature and Traditions
  • Southern Kyushu by Rail

about tokyo tourism

  • Traveling by Rail
  • How to Travel by Train and Bus
  • JR Rail Passes
  • Scenic Railways
  • Renting a Car
  • Sustainable Travel in Japan
  • Travel Brochures
  • Useful Apps
  • Online Reservation Sites
  • Eco-friendly Accommodation
  • Luxury Accommodations
  • Traveling With a Disability
  • Hands-free Travel
  • How to Book a Certified Tour Guide
  • Volunteer Guides
  • Tourist Information Center

about tokyo tourism

  • Japanese Manners
  • Spring in Japan
  • Summer in Japan
  • Autumn in Japan
  • Winter in Japan
  • Cherry Blossom Forecast
  • Autumn Leaves Forecast

about tokyo tourism

  • Japan Visitor Hotline
  • Travel Insurance in Japan
  • Japan Safe Travel Information
  • Accessibility in Japan
  • Vegetarian Guide
  • Muslim Travelers
  • Safety Tips

about tokyo tourism

  • JAPAN Monthly Web Magazine
  • Arts & Cultures
  • Nature & Outdoor
  • Festivals & Events
  • Insider Blog
  • Things to do
  • Local Guides
  • Food & drink
  • Traditional
  • Hokuriku Shinetsu

JAPAN Monthly Web Magazine

My Favorites

${v.desc | trunc(25)}

Planning a Trip to Japan?

Share your travel photos with us by hashtagging your images with #visitjapanjp

Kanto Tokyo High rise, fast-paced and neon-lit, Tokyo is as futuristic as it is historical

  • Destinations

As Japan’s capital and the world’s most populous metropolis, Tokyo offers tradition and innovation, and unlimited opportunities to eat, shop and explore

Tokyo is located on Tokyo Bay in the Kanto region of Honshu, Japan’s largest island. The closest airport airports are Haneda officially known as Tokyo International Airport, and Narita Airport , Japan's largest international airport. Tokyo is known for its fashion and shopping, from the trendy shopping districts of Harajuku and Shibuya , to the luxury flagships of Ginza . Shinjuku is the thriving business district; a mix of gleaming skyscrapers and atmospheric back streets with tiny bars. Asakusa is the heart of Tokyo’s downtown, with ancient temples and traditional stores. Tokyo is a foodie paradise with more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world, along with hundreds of cheap and delicious ramen shops. Tokyo Weather Tokyo has mild spring weather, followed by hot and humid summers punctuated with typhoons. Autumn in Tokyo is cool and fresh, followed by cold, dry winters. Snow is rare but has been known to fall in the first few months of the year. The one week forecast for Tokyo is an accurate guide to the weather for the coming week.

How to Get There

  • Exploring Tokyo's dizzying array of restaurant and dining options, from theme cafes to haute cuisine
  • Checking out the latest electronics, games and gadgets at Akihabara, the home of technology and anime culture
  • Experiencing vibrant youth culture in Harajuku and Shibuya, the trend capitals of Tokyo
  • Visiting Tokyo' s most famous temple, Sensoji, before ferrying down the Sumida River and learning the role the city's waterways played in Edo-era Tokyo

Recommended for You

Tokyo Station

Cherry Blossoms

Forecast of first bloom

24 Mar 2024

Forecast of full bloom

30 Mar 2024

Explore Tokyo by Area

about tokyo tourism

Trending Attractions in Tokyo

Imperial Palace Outer Gardens

Local Specialties

Tokyo Pattern-Dyed Fabrics

The beauty of Tokyo Komon is in its subtlety. The fabric appears to be a solid color from a distance but up close a delicate pattern is revealed through repeated dots and tiny lines. Once worn by high-ranking samurai, komon is now prized for its beauty and the skills required in its production.

food-craft

Tokyo Dyed Silk

Elegance and sophistication define the subtle designs of Tokyo Yuzen kimonos, still produced in the city today. This technique of dyeing and hand-painting silk dates back over 300 years, and is unique in that the entire process from design to completion is handled by a solitary artist, allowing for wonderful individuality.

food-craft

Fukagawa-Meshi

Fukagawa-meshi combines clams, miso and leeks to make a warming, flavorful soup that is poured over a bowl of rice. Clams and leeks are first boiled together to create a rich, briny broth, before miso is then added. The resulting soup and clams are then poured over a bowl of white rice. Fukagawa-meshi is typically eaten with chopsticks so don't be afraid to pick up the bowl and slurp. Outside of the Fukagawa district of Tokyo, this dish can be hard to find.

food-craft

Murayama Oshima Pongee Silk

Prized for making beautiful, natural, lightweight kimonos, Musashi-Murayama Tsumugi is a blend of silk and cotton dyed in a unique process known as itajime, where the threads are bound to a wooden board and splashed with color. The result is a distinctive blurred effect in blues and browns.

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo Shamo

A breed of chicken imported to Japan from Thailand as gamecocks. As a delicacy, Tokyo shamo yield an oil-rich cut of chicken that is perfect for grilling yakitori style.

food-craft

A savory pancake made of finely chopped cabbage, flour, egg and dashi. Other ingredients such as pork, shrimp and octopus are added according to your tastes. Monjayaki has more dashi in its batter than its Kansai cousin, okonomiyaki, giving it a melted cheese texture.

food-craft

Edomae Sushi

The style of sushi most familiar worldwide. As Edo, which is now Tokyo, became wealthier, sushi became a less formal, faster style of dining. Busy Tokyoites simply sat down at the counter and called out their orders to the nearest itamae—the chefs.

food-craft

Japanese Swords

Japanese swords are revered for the strength and beauty of their blades as well as the “spirit of the samurai” history they represent. Regarded as works of art more than as weapons, superb examples of these swords can be viewed at the Japanese Sword Museum in Sumida, Tokyo.

food-craft

Edo Cut Glass

Originally made in Edo—present-day Tokyo—kiriko is decorated entirely with precision cuts. Exquisite patterns characterize these statement pieces, making this cut glassware a perfect addition to any bar set.

food-craft

Seasonal Highlights

See the city take on a gentler appearance as the plum blossoms and cherry blossoms flower. Stretch out on a mat, drink sake and eat Japanese dumplings under the blooms at Shinjuku Gyoen, Yoyogi, Ueno or Inokashira parks. Parks have different rules and regulations so make sure to check before visiting.

Meguro River sakura-SPR

Enjoy one of Japan's largest fireworks displays at the Sumida River. Head for Mt. Takao for its seasonal beer garden and to see some fireflies.

kameido shrine

Visit gardens such as Koishikawa Korakuen, or hike the Okutama mountains for fantastic fall foliage. Temperatures cool but the event calendar heats up with the Tokyo Game Show and Tokyo International Film Festival.

hibiya-koen park

Winter illuminations appear throughout the city, ice-skating rinks open and revelers crowd shrines and temples such as Sensoji Temple and Meiji-jingu Shrine for New Year pilgrimages and festivities.

hibiya-koen park

Related Links

Search for accommodation in Tokyo

Online Reservation Sites

How to get to Haneda Airport

Others

BONDS HOUSE and Sakura Cross Hotel take in those stranded by COVID-19, provide you a place to feel safe for free

Explore Nearby Prefectures

Please Choose Your Language

Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages

A beginner’s guide to visiting Tokyo: Everything you need to eat, see and do

Samantha Rosen

There's a reason everyone and their mother is going to visit Tokyo these days. It's one of the most incredible destinations on Earth, and I fell head over heels in love with this city on a recent trip.

When you go, you'll understand why.

Now, when I tell you I spent as much time planning my itinerary as I did putting together the TPG beginner's guide , it's not an exaggeration. I spent hours researching, calling, emailing — pretty much everything except sending a carrier pigeon to the other side of the world — to make sure I had the most incredible experience ever. And it paid off. Fortunately, I created this guide so you don't have to do the same before your first trip to Tokyo. Just do me a solid and enjoy every second of the trip, OK?

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Where to eat in Tokyo

If you know anything about me, you know that my life revolves around where I'm eating. Considering that Tokyo is one of the culinary capitals of the world, you can imagine how excited — and overwhelmed — I was before the trip. I reviewed everything from Instagram to Tabelog (Japan's version of Yelp), and then crosschecked online reviews to make sure these restaurants deserved to make the final cut.

Keep in mind that it can be difficult to make online restaurant reservations in Tokyo. There's no Resy or OpenTable to speak of. So, your best bet is using some type of concierge service from either your hotel or credit card (think: the Amex Platinum Concierge ).

Also, I think there's a misconception that you have to spend a lot of money to visit Tokyo. Yes, you can absolutely splurge on omakase and Wagyu (I'll get to that in a minute), but you can also find inexpensive street food or pop into a no-frills sushi, ramen or udon restaurant that'll make your wallet and stomach very happy. You can do Japan on a budget, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

Related: 3 ways to do Tokyo on points

Where to get sushi in Tokyo

First thing's first: I knew I needed to stuff my face with as much sushi as possible, and there was one restaurant I kept seeing pop up again and again: Sushi-Ya.

Sushi-Ya is an eight-seat omakase restaurant in the the Ginza district of Tokyo (right near the Conrad !) and was the most incredible sushi experience I've ever had. I mean, just look at this tuna:

Photo courtesy of author

Chef Ishiyama was warm and welcoming, and explained every piece I was going to eat during the two-hour ordeal. This was a real treat, since many sushi chefs don't speak English; it can be intimidating if you don't speak the language. It was far and away the most expensive meal I had in Japan, but worth every single penny yen.

That wasn't my only sushi journey, though. I was also able to get a reservation at Isana Sushi Bar, a slightly more casual sushi spot I kept seeing pop up during my research. Chef Junichi Onuki was another near-fluent English-speaking chef, and the fish here was high-quality without being too pricey. I ended up chatting with a family from California who was also visiting, and we got into a long conversation about — you guessed it — sushi. Chef Onuki chimed in, as well, and it made for a really memorable start to my trip.

Where to get noodles in Tokyo

Let's talk about ramen for a second. Of course, Tokyo is full to the brim with ramen shops, similar to (but better than) Ippudo locations all over the U.S. But the real treat here is tsukemen . It's a Japanese specialty where the cold noodles are served in a bowl separate from the warm broth. You dip the cold noodles in the broth and then you reach ramen Nirvana. It's all part of the experience. The best tsukemen I had was at Fuunji, followed closely by Rokurinsha on Ramen Street in Tokyo Station. You'll inevitably end up waiting in line for each for about an hour or so, but since it's Japan, everything is efficient and moves quickly.

Oh, and did I mention that you'll order using a vending machine?

I also knew I needed to dive into a bowl of udon, and Shin Udon seemed like the place to go (coincidentally, it was right around the corner from Fuunji). It was a few minutes away from the Park Hyatt in an unassuming little room. They even line people up on another street as to not block the tiny little entrance. If you're staying anywhere in Shinjuku — and even if you're not — add this to your list.

Related: Inside Tokyo's bizarre robot restaurant

The best restaurants in Tokyo

Now, you'll think I've lost my mind for what I'm about to tell you, but believe me when I say I ate the best pizza I've had in my life in Tokyo ; I'm a native New Yorker and have traveled multiple times to various cities around Italy, but the pizza at Seirinkan blew all the other slices out of the water. It was as close to perfect as you can get. I found this place through chef David Chang's "Ugly Delicious" show on Netflix , and he said the same thing: You'll think he's crazy, but it really is the best pizza in the world. If you don't believe me, go see for yourself. If you do believe me, well, bring your stretchy pants. I'd definitely recommend making a reservation, too. I got mine through the concierge at the Conrad hotel , and you can probably use a similar strategy, or call the Amex Platinum concierge.

Photo courtesy of author

If you thought my culinary extravaganza was over, you'd be wrong.

I kept seeing these delicious-looking wagyu beef sandwiches pop up on social media and knew I needed to taste one for myself. I ultimately landed on a shop called Wagyumafia and it did not disappoint. Granted, it was also probably the most expensive sandwich I have ever and will ever order (it cost about $30), but how can you say no to a fried wagyu sandwich? You can't.

You know you're in a good spot when everyone in the restaurant is Japanese. Enter: Tempura Kondo. This restaurant, tucked away on the fifth floor of a building in Ginza, turns out some of the best fried food I've ever had. Just follow the people getting in the elevator and you'll know you're in the right place. Those two Michelin stars aren't for nothing.

Fluffy pancakes are also a must in Japan, and trust me, I had more than my fair share. In Tokyo, I went to Bills Ginza and A Happy Pancake; I inhaled my pancakes in minutes. Of the two, I would choose Bills — the quality of the food was better, and the overall vibe of the restaurant was more relaxed and fun. Safe to say I stayed pretty carbohydrated during my trip.

And if you don't stock up on snacks (hello, matcha Kit Kats!) and a daily chicken katsu sandwich at 7/11 , Lawson or FamilyMart, you're doing it wrong.

Like I said: Tokyo is an eating extravaganza.

Related: 10 things no one tells you about Tokyo

What to see and do in Tokyo

You could spend your entire life in Tokyo and still never run out of things to see and do. It's just that massive. Assuming you're just visiting for a few days, however, and not relocating there, these are the things you should prioritize.

Yes, you keep seeing it on Instagram , but there's a reason: It's called teamLab Borderless, and it's cooler in real life than it is on your phone. I was skeptical about it at first, thinking it was just another "Instagram pop-up," but this interactive light museum and installation can take hours to properly explore. The most popular exhibit (see below) had a pretty long line — about 20 minutes or so — when I was there, but it was absolutely incredible.

Photo courtesy of @ElleFlorio/Unsplash

You should definitely make it a point to visit the famed Tsukiji Market when in Tokyo. While the inner market — the place where the tuna auction took place — moved to Toyosu Market, you can still visit the outer market at Tsukiji to eat all the fish your heart desires without shelling out the big bucks. I had an oyster the size of my face for about $2; a giant octopus skewer; and a tuna, salmon and sea urchin situation that was unlike anything else I've ever eaten. All of this cost me less than $20.

Another favorite locale was Ameyoko Ueno market. Visiting markets while you're traveling is a great way to get a feel for the people and the culture, and at Ameyoko, you'll find cheap shopping, authentic cuisine and approachable residents who can introduce you to Tokyo.

No trip to Tokyo is complete without a quick trip to Shibuya Crossing, the busiest intersection in the world. The surrounding area has great shopping (Tower Records), so you definitely want to take a few minutes to cross the street and feel the heartbeat of the city. I've also heard the Starbucks at the corner has the best aerial views, but I didn't have time to make the trip there.

about tokyo tourism

You'll also want to visit the Harajuku area, the center of Japanese youth culture and fashion. Take a walk down colorful Takeshita Street — just be prepared for a sensory overload in the best way possible. If you're a cotton candy fan, stop at Totti Candy Factory.

Steps away from Harajuku, you'll find Meiji Jingu, a beautiful Shinto shrine. It's dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken. I'm not a religious person at all, but it was a deeply spiritual experience. I really liked writing down my wishes in an envelope and putting them away in a box. It all felt very "Eat, Pray, Love." The shrine is located in Yoyogi Park, which is a gorgeous, sprawling green park in the middle of Shibuya. I went early before the crowds, and it was the definition of Japanese Zen.

In Asakusa, you'll find Sensō-ji, a Buddhist temple and the oldest in Tokyo. Everything I'd ever dreamt about Japan came to life here. Be sure to bathe in some of the smoke from the incense, since it's said to have healing powers.

My favorite shopping was in Shinjuku. I kept seeing the name Komehyo pop up during my research, and decided to make a trip to the store's flagship in this neighborhood . I ended up getting a bag I've had my eye on for years, and it cost me less than half of what it would have cost at home. And thrift stores are a thing in Japan. They resemble actual department stores, and have enough luxury goods to make your head spin — and since it's Japan, everything is in pristine condition.

If you're even remotely a fan of the Grateful Dead, you need to visit Chi Chi's. It's a little off the beaten path in the Setagaya City neighborhood, but is a well-known destination for Deadheads. Chi Chi and Merry, the owners, were so warm and welcoming, and we ended up talking for an hour about music, travel, Japan and food. The best things in life, if you ask me. All the shirts are handmade, and you could easily spend an entire day there browsing and chatting with Chi Chi and Merry. Merry even let me take a picture with her signed copy of John Mayer's "The Search for Everything" album that she got back when Dead & Company went to visit the shop in April.

View this post on Instagram   A post shared by CHI-CHI'S (@chichis_1985) on Jun 21, 2019 at 12:46am PDT

Where to stay in Tokyo

With so many hotels in Tokyo, it can be hard to narrow it all down. Trust me, I know the feeling.

I ended up staying in two hotels during my trip: Both the Conrad and Park Hyatt . While I'm more or less obsessed with the Conrad and can't recommend it highly enough, the Park Hyatt definitely fell below my expectations.

(Photo by Samantha Rosen / The Points Guy)

These are two of the city's most high-end points properties, but I promise there's something for everyone and every budget here.

Take, for example, the wealth of Marriott hotels in the city. There are two Courtyard properties — one in Ginza , the other near Tokyo station — both available from 35,000 points per night. There's also a Westin (rates start at 50,000 points per night) and, one step up from there, a Ritz-Carlton (rates start at 85,000 points per night).

And there are even more properties on the horizon as the capital prepares for the 2020 Summer Olympics. Marriott loyalists can look forward to a forthcoming Edition property; a spring grand opening is expected for the Kimpton Shinjuku for travelers with IHG points; and if you're more interested in earning than redeeming points, Japan's third Four Seasons will appear in time for the games at Tokyo at Otemachi.

You'll want to check out our guide to the best points hotels in Tokyo to find the one that works best for you.

Related: 3 of the best value points hotels in Tokyo

How to get to Tokyo

Naturally, there are a ton of ways to get to Tokyo — it's one of the biggest cities in the world, after all. There are two airports that serve the city: Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT). Haneda is much closer to the city , but I ended up flying in and out of Narita because of how my flights worked out.

On the way there, I flew in Japan Airlines first class . I'll probably never be over the fact that I can say that and yes, it really was that amazing. I found award availability on Alaska Airlines for 70,000 miles and $18 in taxes and fees.

Coming home, I flew in Air Canada business class with a short layover in Montreal (YUL) — I transferred 75,000 Amex points to Aeroplan , paid about $175 in taxes and fees and voilá! That's how you do it, people.

The details

Getting around.

I'm a big fan of walking, especially in a city I haven't been to before so I can explore every corner.

That said, Tokyo is a massive 845 square miles. You'll inevitably have to take the subway, which is extremely efficient and clean — people wait on lines to get in and out of it. (Take notes, New York City.) I'd definitely recommend getting either a Pasmo or Suica card ahead of time and loading it with money so you don't have to buy individual tickets. Also, you'll need to swipe it (or your individual ticket) as you leave the station, so be sure to keep it accessible.

I loved putting on my headphones and listening to music while Google Maps was on in the background; it told me exactly when I needed to turn, and if I was taking the subway, when the train was leaving and what platform I needed to be at. Efficiency at its finest.

While I felt safe walking around at night, I opted to take a cab home from restaurants that weren't walking distance to my hotel — when traveling alone, I always err on the side of caution. That said, you'll be more than fine taking the subway with a companion, or even by yourself. I just always play it safe.

Uber is available here, although the fleet is fairly small and prices are typically more expensive than taxis. Taking a taxi in Tokyo is an experience — the drivers all wear white gloves, not to mention they open and close the door for you. Beats an Uber any day of the week.

To get to Kyoto, I took the scenic Shinkasen directly from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station. I'd recommend getting to Tokyo Station early and going to Rokurinsha for ramen; you'll thank me later. The trip took less than three hours, and yes, the bullet train is as fast as you've heard. Added bonus: The ticket cost about $120 each way, and counted toward my Chase Sapphire Reserve $300 travel credit .

Related: Second cities: Destinations to add onto a trip to Tokyo

Japanese currency and tipping

In Japan, $1 gets you about 108.55 Japanese yen, so don't panic when you see astronomical numbers while scoping out prices. You'll also want to carry a decent amount of cash on you, since many places don't accept credit cards. Of course, when you do pay with card, you'll want to use one that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees . Just think of what you could be putting that money towards instead (read: food).

The service in Japan was absolutely incredible — I'd even venture to say it's pretty much the ideal location for a solo woman traveler . People (everyone, not just those working in hospitality) go out of their way to help you and make sure you're comfortable. Excellent service and hospitality is so ingrained in the culture that tipping is actually considered rude . Instead, just smile and say thank you.

Bottom line

In case you couldn't tell, I had the absolute best time in Tokyo , and am already itching to go back. There is so much to see and do here that it's difficult to even scratch the surface. But with these tips in mind, you'll begin to understand what the hype is all about — and if my past trip here is any indication, you're going to fall in love with this beautiful city, too.

15 essential things to know before you visit Tokyo

By Crista Priscilla

Shibuya shopping street

Tokyo is a city that might be well spoken of in the plural, just as the Greeks used to speak of Athens – for this city is the largest in the world, and even locals might not be able to comprehend the whole city in their lifetime. Made up of 23 wards that are distinctively unique to each other, one person's understanding of Tokyo might be different to another's – depending on which area they spend most of their time in.

However, there are some universal rules to live by whenever you are in the city. No matter which area of Tokyo you are in, these are some tips to enjoy the magnitude of the megalopolitan area seamlessly and pleasantly. 

Haneda airport

1. Choose Haneda instead of Narita Airport as your point of arrival

Narita may be the bigger, more famous airport in Tokyo, but Haneda is located in the city, while Narita is a part of Chiba prefecture, on the eastern outskirts of Tokyo. This means commuting to the city centre from Haneda will save you time and money. With its amazing public transportation system, you can easily choose between trains or buses.

2. The Japan Rail Pass might be too expensive if you’re only exploring Tokyo

Purchasing the Japan Rail Pass is a no-brainer if you plan to travel through the country, but if you will spend most of your time in Tokyo, it can be a rather lavish expense – and an unnecessary one. The Japan Rail Pass only works for trains and buses that are managed by the JR company. Throughout Tokyo, other train lines operate as well as JR trains. Most JR stations sprawl among the more commercial areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya and Harajuku, but to get to know Tokyo beyond the touristy sites, explore more the neighbourhood-y ones such as the old town Yanaka, hipster Kuramae, or traditional fish market of Tsukiji. To get to  those  places you’ll need to take the subway and buses operated by other companies, which are not covered by the Japan Rail Pass.

Tsukiji Market Tokyo

3. Get yourself a Pasmo (or a Suica)

These will make your adventure through the megalopolitan serpentine transportation system a walk in a park. Pasmo (or Suica – they are the same kind of cards, just issued by different train companies) is a super-smart card that can be used not only to get you through the train station ’s gate but also to pay for everything, from bus tickets and vending-machine snacks to your compulsive buying in Tokyo’s exceptional convenience stores. You can easily get one from the ticket machines at any train station, load it up with yen and hop on and off effortlessly between modes of transport like the locals do.

4. Remember this is a cash country

No matter how futuristic your imagination of Japan is, it is still a country that is very much rooted in tangibility – and to some extent, a sensory experience. That is why Japanese people prefer renting comic books rather than getting a kindle, or ordering an expensive carved seal (hanko) than registering a digital signature, or in this case, carrying (and receiving) cash than using debit and credit cards. So prepare a thick wad of yen at all times, because there are five-star ryokans or top-tier sushi restaurants that refuse to take credit cards or e-money. If you need more cash, find the nearest convenience store – these usually have an ATM inside. Very few Japanese ATMs work with foreign cash, let alone provide you with an English language option, but those in the 7-Elevens should be reliable enough.

5. Note: there are at least five stations with the name “Shinjuku”

If you ask the locals where the Shinjuku station is, they might ask you in return, “Which one?”. Shinjuku, like most famous districts in Tokyo, is not only vast but also comprised of several areas, and each has its own train station (with different operating train companies). There is the famous Shinjuku Station that is owned by JR company (the same company that issues the Japan Rail Pass), and there are those with the name “Nishi-Shinjuku”, “Shinjuku Gyoen-mae”, “Shinjuku-san-chome”, “Seibu Shinjuku”, plus many more. So when you’re planning to visit Shinjuku, or any other district, make sure you’re heading to the right station, closest to the place you’re looking for.

Tip : Google Maps is a life-saver! It can indicate which train company you have to hop on to, and which “Shinjuku Station” you need to go to. Just enter the name of your destination and choose the one with the least walking distance.

Finland is giving away free trips to teach people how to be happy

Connor Sturges

This is officially the cheapest destination in the world in 2024

Olivia Morelli

The best afternoon tea in London: Our favourites to book now

Sarah James

Tokyo pod hotel

6. Be prepared to downsize

Get used to everything being small in Tokyo. The first diminutive thing you may notice is most likely your hotel room, and more often than not, the size of the bed and bathroom. Try to pack lightly for Tokyo, and check the bed size when you book your accommodation – the largest size most hotels have is a queen size, and few provide king-size beds. Most restaurants are also small, and they are meant to cater to only two-four people per group. Unless you come to a family restaurant or an established izakaya, it is usually a challenge to find one table for a group of more than four people. It’s highly advisable to do a little research about your preferred eatery’s seating arrangements, especially if you’re travelling in a big group.

7. A long queue is a good sign

Japanese people are known for their long suffering and perseverance. They don’t mind a long waiting time – nor getting up (way too) early to get in the line, be it for the opening of a new store or lunchtime at a famous soba joint. Don’t let long queues discourage you! Instead, get used to it or arrive earlier to beat the crowd. Better yet, join the queue because wherever there’s a long line with locals lining up, it’s a sign that the place is undoubtedly worth it.

View of Mt. Fuji Tokyo Tower and downtown Tokyo

8. Don't ask for a menu – ask for the ticket machine instead

When you step into a ramen shop, you are expected to place your order by giving your ramen ticket to the cook. There is no menu that will be given to you, nor a waiter to take your order. You have to find a massive machine, usually located by the shop’s entrance, that is full of buttons with photos of every item on the menu and its price. Insert your bill (remember to always bring cash) and press the button for the item that you want. Your ticket and exact change will be spewed out by the machine. Hand the ticket to the food attendant (or the cook himself) – that’s how you place your order in a ramen shop.

9. Be aware that most cafes and restaurants only open after 11am

Although Tokyo is the greatest feast on earth, the feast starts at lunch time, not at breakfast. Most eateries begin their first service at lunch, and hardly anything opens for breakfast unless it’s an international joint that clearly serves breakfast on its menu. The denizen of Tokyo have their breakfast at home, from a convenience store, or nothing at all because they are too busy running to get into the packed train before the doors close.

10. Watch out for rush-hour hell

You’ve probably seen the videos of Japanese train officers ruthlessly pushing people into sardine-packed carriages  And if you’re not keen to experience that kind of phenomenon during your trip, it is better to steer clear of taking the trains during weekday rush-hour peak – between 7am and 9am, and shortly after 5pm. The most congested lines will be the Tozai line, JR Chuo-Sobu line, and the popular JR Yamanote line which runs around the city and stops at some of Tokyo’s most popular districts including Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Harajuku. The stations will also be packed. Try to avoid commuting around these hours, but if you can’t, search for other walking-distance stations that operate different lines and depart from there.

Famous escalator in Tokyo

11. Learn escalator protocol

You will soon notice that on the escalator, people stand on the left side, and leave the right side open. That is to give way for others who are in a rush to use the right side to walk up without any obstruction. Stay on the left side when you’re riding the elevator to avoid annoyed looks from locals. While you’re living by this rule in Tokyo, you will have to do the opposite in the Kansai region – that will be Osaka , Kyoto and Nara. Just  don’t get mixed up between the two.

12. Public bins are scarce – so bring a bag for rubbish

Soon after devouring 7-Eleven’s fried chicken, you realise that you cannot find anywhere to throw away the greasy paper. A domestic terror attack in 1995 that involved deadly sarin gas forced the government to remove public bins to prevent future attacks, as they believed this could be another place where dangerous substances could easily be installed. That being said, you still can find these rare objects in a few spots in public parks, some train stations, public restrooms and in front of convenience stores.

Tip : Bring an empty plastic bag with you to hold the rubbish until you can take it home and sort it. Also, if you buy food or drink, eat it where you bought it. They usually place bins nearby so you can toss your rubbish right away.

Busy streets of Shinjuku Tokyo with neon lights and traffic

13. Get to know Tokyo's neighbourhoods

Tokyo, as vast and large as it is, is divided into many neighbourhoods that became city centres in their own right. The capital has several downtowns spread throughout the city. Depending on what you’re looking for, one downtown might be more suitable than another. Here are the five busiest downtown districts of Tokyo which each offer different impressions and experiences.

A frenetic neighbourhood full of young people. Expect to spend your money on animal cafes, 100-yen stores, or cute-looking puddings that are too pretty to eat.

The district that never sleeps. Shinjuku is a massive office complex, so its commercial areas are catered to entertain flocks of Japanese salarymen after office hours. Find the infamous Kabukicho, Tokyo’s biggest red light district where almost 300 nightclubs, love hotels, shops, host and hostess clubs, and restaurants are ready to serve you all night long.

An old artistic district that is less festive than Shibuya or Shinjuku, and more family-friendly – but not less lively. The area was a home for many artists’ studios in the 1940s and its image as a district of art and culture is still widely present, especially in the western part. Ikebukuro is also known for its shopping, arcades, anime fans, and family days out at the city's rooftop aquarium. 

A classy adult-oriented area that is popular among travellers, offering a large number of tourist-friendly entertainment spots. Roppongi’s surrounding districts are home to many embassies and a large expat community. Recently, the district has also developed a reputation as a cultural centre with several world-class art galleries appearing in the area.

Tokyo's first Western-style shopping district is where the city's old money still shops. It is a bustling upmarket area with rows of prestigious department stores, high-end boutiques, art galleries and exclusive restaurants.

14. Get used to self-service cashiers

Don’t be surprised if there is no one waiting for you at the cashier when you’re checking out. These days, the country is increasing self-checkouts to ease labour shortage problems. You will find big stores in Tokyo such as Uniqlo, Muji or GU, and convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Family Mart install rows of self-service cashier counters that will calculate the total amount of your purchase. Note: these machines will automatically deduct payment from your credit cards without applying any payment authentication steps.

Side street in Tokyo

15. Silence is golden

Tokyo may be buzzing tumultuously with background sounds from blaring advertisement screens or salespeople screaming out deals outside the stores, but you are also expected to be quiet – especially when on the train, bus and other public places. Talking in the train car is not banned, but if your voice is loud enough to be heard by the people around you, it is considered annoying and rude. Japanese people are aware that they are sharing space with others, so keeping any noises at a low volume – including turning the sound off on your smartphone and not receiving calls on board – is considered an understood etiquette.

Asia Chevron

Japan Chevron

Tokyo Chevron

27 Best Things to Do in Tokyo

By Melinda Joe and Anna Chittenden

Cherry Blossom And River In Tokyo Japan

Deciding the best things to do in Tokyo depends on how much time you have—and for your sake, we hope you have a month. The city’s streets can feel like a game of soccer played at hyper speed, while calmer attractions range from temples, museums , gardens, origami classes, and bohemian sojourns. This city has more than enough going on to put you in a tizzy, so a words of advice: Arrive with a game plan and prepare to get lost along the way, in a good way. Here, the very best things to do in Tokyo.

Read our complete Tokyo travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Sensoji Tokyo

Senso-ji Arrow

Tokyo may not have as many temples as Kyoto, but Senso-ji isn’t the capital city’s most popular just by default. The atmosphere alone here is one for the bucket list. Senso-ji, the temple itself, is at the end of the shopping street, while a recently renovated five-story pagoda stands to the left (ranking in as the second tallest pagoda in Japan). Japanese visitors flutter around a large cauldron in front of the temple where incense burned inside is said to benefit good health. Travelers keen to avoid crowds should arrive early, but even tourists that are remotely interested in Japanese culture will find something to appreciate here.

An alley.

Harmonica Yokocho Arrow

This clutch of narrow alleys, a short walk from the north exit of JR Kichijoji station, is stuffed to the gills with hole-in-the wall eateries. A yellow sign marks the entrance to Harmonica Yokocho, which takes its name from the layout of the vendors, slotted cheek-to-jowl along the passageways like the reeds in a harmonica. The atmospheric network of lanes started out as a post-war flea market in the 1940s, but the area underwent a transformation in the 90s when bustling bars and restaurants made their entrance onto the scene. It has a laid-back and hyper-local feel, especially during the daytime, when you’ll find fishmongers and traditional sweets makers plying their trades.

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree Arrow

Topping off at 2,080 feet, the Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower (that's tower, not building) in the world. From the broadcast tower’s 360-degree observation decks, the whole city—its striking skyscrapers and neon intersections—looks like a magical circuit board. It’s a major tourist attraction and a ticket isn’t cheap (up to ¥3,400, or $25, for combo tickets), but even if you don’t pay to go inside, there’s no denying that the Tokyo Skytree brought the skyline to a whole new level. Depending on where you’re staying, it can be an out-of-the-way trip to eastern Tokyo (luckily, a train station gets you right near the entrance). Families with children will enjoy the experience—especially the speedy elevator rides—as will anyone that loves a jaw-dropping view.

Default

Koganeyu Arrow

Sleek design, a DJ booth, and craft beer on tap: The newly refurbished Koganeyu functions as a lively standing bar and community events space, but the main reason to visit this 89-year-old establishment is to immerse yourself in Tokyo’s sento (public sauna) culture. A crowdfunded renovation has transformed the space into a contemporary sento with four pools, a sauna, and an outdoor bath. Bathing areas for men and women are separated by a 2.2-meter partial wall, while a mural depicting Mount Fuji stretches across both areas like a scroll. You can purchase tickets from the vending machine at the entrance; a 90-minute bathing session costs about $3.50 for adults, $2.70 for students, and $1.30 for children. After emerging from the baths, relax with a glass of craft beer brewed especially for Koganeyu, or try a homemade ginger highball.

The Happiest Countries in the World in 2024

Sarah James

We Asked Experts: When Is It Okay for Children to Miss School for Vacation?

Jessica Puckett

15 Best Family Vacation Spots in the US, From Cape Cod to Charleston

Kimberly Wilson

17 Running Shoes Worth Packing&-Whether You're a Casual Runner or a Marathoner

Rachel Chang

A Japanese teapot sits silhouetted at a table.

Sakurai Tea Experience Arrow

Copper and wood greet you inside this minimalist sanctuary dedicated to sado, the Japanese “way of tea.” A small retail space filled with glass jars containing 30 varieties of green tea conceals an intimate eight-seat cafe. Founder Shinya Sakurai studied for 14 years to become a master, and his modern take on tea ceremony is meditative and illuminating. As Sakurai prepares the infusions behind an L-shaped wooden counter, a continuous stream of water flows from a copper tap—a symbol of purification. Gyokuro, a luxurious variety of green tea grown in the shade, is the specialty here. Sakurai travels the country to select the leaves, which he roasts daily in-house. The tasting flight for ¥4,800 (about $35) is the best introduction to the range of teas on offer.

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing Arrow

Anyone remotely impressed that Tokyo is the most populated city in the world should visit the world’s busiest intersection at Shibuya Crossing. Massive video screens flashing advertisements tower above every corner as black-suited salarymen, wide-eyed tourists, and bag-toting shoppers wait and cross in concert. The feeling is oddly soothing, a reminder that whatever our disparate paths in life, they all have a tendency to cross at one time or another. The best time to go is at dusk, one of the scramble’s peak times and in its most flattering light. The Shibuya Scramble Square tower above Shibuya station offers a birds’ eye view of the famous crossing, along with panoramic vistas of the city from the Shibuya Sky rooftop observatory, perched 230 meters above street level.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Tokyo

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Arrow

Fancy a stroll in a Japanese garden? Get that and more at Shinjuku Gyoen. In addition to native, traditional gardens, the 144-acre park pockets French Formal and English Landscape gardens, all of which are worth the modest entrance fee. Landmarks are stunning and impossible to forget, like a Taiwan Pavilion perched along a serene pond. Formerly an imperial garden, it became a national garden after World War II—so you can trust that this precious plot is always beautifully maintained. Don’t miss cherry blossom season.

Kappabashi Street Tokyo Shopping

Kappabashi Street Arrow

Kappabashi Street, a district in between Ueno and Asakusa, isn’t so much a food destination as it is a food adjacent destination: While it’s devoted to the restaurant industry, fresh food isn’t why folks come. Instead, the street is a chef’s dream of restaurant supply stores that are known best for sampuru , replicas of food dishes that are part of a century-old craft—and are up for grabs. And, because it’s more trade-focused than tourist-focused, the prices can be somewhat economical. Have any curious cooks in the family? This district is their souvenir heaven.

Shaved ice Azuki to Kouri Tokyo

Azuki to Kouri Arrow

The clean-lined, slate-grey interior of this kakigori ice specialist sets off the ebullient shaved ice creations of pâtissier Miho Horio. Formerly of two-Michelin-starred restaurant Florilege, Horio is one of the young chefs elevating the sweet treat to new heights of refinement. She carefully adjusts the blade of her ice machine to shave blocks of ice—made with spring water from Nikko, north of Tokyo—into fluffy, feathery flakes. Shaping the shavings into a delicate mound, she adds fresh fruit and toppings such as homemade syrups, compotes, and foams. Her signature parfait showcases sweet azuki red beans—the classic kakigori topping for which the café is named—paired with cream and flecks of meringue. Seasonal offerings include salted cherry blossoms with fresh strawberries in spring, and blood orange dusted with grated Amazonian cacao in early summer.

Yoyogi Park Tokyo

Yoyogi Park Arrow

Yoyogi Park is one of the most amusing parks in Tokyo. Its 134 acres sprawl right in Shibuya, a short skip from Harajuku , and bustle with picnics and performers. The northern side is lush, with clean walkways along expansive, grassy lawns where locals and tourists spread under the shade of Japanese Zelkova trees, and gather around a large pond. Spot impromptu badminton team swinging racquets, a drum circle tapping away at the bongo, or amateur dancers following along to the beat.

Yayoi Kusama Museum Tokyo

Yayoi Kusama Museum Arrow

In a suburban part of Shinjuku, a smooth white building rises five stories high—a museum completely devoted to the works of Yayoi Kusama . The building looks slim, but it houses a bulk of the larger-than-life and avant-garde artist’s pieces, including an installation of her “infinity room” series (an Instagram sensation which, in the past, drew hundreds of thousands of visitors in stateside exhibitions) to polka-dotted paintings and sculptures. The museum changes its exhibition two times a year, and as it’s still relatively new, it’s only cracked the surface of the prolific artist’s work.

Japanese tea ceremony scenes at traditional Japanese room

Kuge Crafts Arrow

The traditional technique of mending pottery with lacquer sprinkled with gold dust, kintsugi is an art form unto itself. The practice, which dates back to the 15th century, is alive and well at Kuge Crafts, a ceramics studio in the quiet Shin-Koenji neighborhood of western Tokyo. Run by a family of artisans—Yoshiichiro and Yoshiko Kuge, together with their son, Shu—the atelier transforms broken cups and dishes into singular works of art and offers two-hour kintsugi lessons (¥8,000, or about $59) for learners of all levels. The workshop will provide all the materials; you can bring your own damaged vessel for repair or ask them to prepare a piece for you to work on.

Sumo Stadium Tokyo

Sumo at Ryogoku Kokugikan Arrow

Only three of six official grand sumo tournaments happen in Tokyo, all at Ryogoku Kokugikan. The stadium houses over 11,000 eager fans under its green, pavilion-style roof. Official tournaments last just over two weeks each, which means Ryogoku Kokugikan sometimes hosts other events (boxing, for example). But sumo is the arena’s feature attraction, and if you’re hoping to see sumo in Tokyo, this is where to find it. Tamari seats, which are those immediately surrounding the ring, are the most coveted—and virtually impossible to score. But the next series of rows, box seats, are as close as you can get. Box seats are top-dollar, but little more than rows of tatami mats lined with red square cushions (with no backs) sold in groups of four—so cozy up, and pay up (¥380,00, or about $279, for a box). There are proper stadium seats along the second-floor mezzanine, but the thrill of witnessing this traditional Japanese sport up close is all about getting comfortable with the floor.

The Bellwood Tokyo

The Bellwood Arrow

Modeled after an early 20th-century Japanese coffee house, this swanky watering hole is fitted with modern-retro touches like a stained glass panel bearing the bar’s name, bookended by images of Mount Fuji and a martini under the moon. The main space is great for after-work drinks or late-night tipples, but the bar recently opened a glass-encased private room to host a series of food-and-cocktail pairing experiments. Witty twists on classic cocktails are prepared with flair. Start light with the Kome Tonic, made with rice-based shochu, then explore the seasonal menu: Tango Mule made with gin and Fernet Branca laced with roasted mate, or the Okushibu Fashioned with bourbon, kinako soy powder and a hint of bitter mugmort.

Nihon Minkaen Japan Openair Folk House Museum

Nihon Minka-en Japan Open-air Folk House Museum Arrow

Though only 20 minutes by train from central Tokyo, the Nihon Minka-En Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum, located in a suburb of neighboring Kawasaki City, feels a world—and several centuries—away. The sprawling grounds are home to 25 marvelously preserved Edo-era homes relocated from all over the Japanese countryside, spanning an array of styles from farmhouses to samurai houses and includes a shrine, water mill and kabuki stage. Don’t miss the traditional indigo dyeing workshop in the middle of the park houses a small shop where you can find indigo-dyed everything, from socks and sweaters to handkerchiefs and masks.

A interior of a restaurant.

Koffee Mameya Kakeru Arrow

Don't expect your average cup of joe at Koffee Mameya Kakeru, housed in a renovated warehouse in the Shirakawa coffee district in eastern Tokyo. Beyond the sleek glass facade, the interior designed by art director Tomohiro Kato and architect Yosuke Hayashi features a massive oak structure built around the artfully arranged coffee shelves. A rectangular wooden frame encases a three-sided stone counter built around three black tables where the baristas display their skills. Coffee maestro and founder Eiichi Kumimoto launched Koffee Mameya Kakeru to go deep into the world of the brew and push the boundaries of the drink's potential. The menu showcases seasonal varieties, but the omakase-style coffee tasting courses (including a range of cold and milk brews, mocktails, and lattes) take center stage, offering a fascinating journey through the diverse flavors and artistry of coffee. Coffee cocktail champion Akira Zushi dazzles with flair bartending skills and innovative cocktails like the milk brew blended with hop-accented jasmine tea and lemon, finished with a spritz of prickly ash water.

Oedo Antique Market Tokyo

Oedo Antique Market Arrow

Oedo Antique Market is a marvelous outdoor fair held near Tokyo Station twice a month, with stalls selling wonderful antique and vintage wares. Hundreds of independent stallholders set up shop to sell their one-of-a-kind objects. There isn’t a huge number of antique or vintage homeware shops in Tokyo—so if you’re looking for old, interesting, and unique Japanese items for your home, this is the place to come. The items on sale at Oedo are completely one-off and unique. You’d be hard pressed to find a permanent shop in Tokyo that has the choice and style that you’ll find here. For first dibs, come earlier in the day.

Former Asakura Residence Tokyo

Kyu Asakura House Arrow

Built in 1919, the former residence of government official Torajiro Asakura is a marvelously preserved example of traditional Japanese architecture tucked into Tokyo’s bustling Daikanyama district. For ¥100 (about 73 cents), you can wander through the building’s stately wooden corridors, tatami-floored rooms, and beautifully manicured grounds. The suginoma (cedar rooms) on the west side of the structure offer postcard-perfect views of the Japanese garden—particularly in the autumn, when the maple trees blaze with color. One of the city’s best-kept secrets, the property is an oasis of calm. It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds for an hour or two and contemplate the passing of time.

Nakameguro Tokyo Neighborhood

Nakameguro Arrow

It’s okay to visit the artsy neighborhood, Nakameguro, just to see its seasonal appeal as one of the most picture-perfect spots for cherry blossoms in spring. However, stick around these charming streets and you’ll find a hip collection of independent cafes and boutiques that offer a laid-back alternative to the city’s buzzing hubs. Sakura trees hug the Meguro River in Nakameguro’s center, blossoming as they lean over the sloped, canal-like walls surrounding the water. Once you’ve taken a moment to smell the blossoms (and fill your phone with pictures), you’ll find an array of independent boutiques and cafes branching off along narrow streets in either direction. Head to the corner-side Onibus Coffee, which serves single-origin espresso, and stop at SML, a boutique stocking delightful crafts (especially ceramics) made by Japanese artists. 

A shopping complex.

Nakano Broadway Arrow

A Tokyo mecca for anime- and manga-loving otaku subculture fans, the Nakano Broadway is a multi-story shopping arcade that has become a hub for niche collectors of all stripes. When it first opened in 1966, the complex epitomized the spirit of future-perfect economic optimism sparked by the Tokyo Olympics. Competition from newer shopping malls emptied its corridors of fancy boutiques in the 80s, before the Broadway reinvented itself as a center for used manga and anime models in the 90s. More than 300 tiny outlets are crammed into the aging edifice’s bottom five floors, offering everything from vintage Godzilla and Astroboy figurines to designer watches and creepy dolls galore.

Isetan Tokyo

Isetan Arrow

Isetan is Tokyo’s best—and most famous—department store; its history dates back to 1886, when it started as a kimono shop. The sprawling flagship in Shinjuku is spread out over nine floors, each offering something special. There’s a big fashion focus, with local Japanese brands sitting beside international names. Don’t miss a visit to the wonderful food hall on B1, which sells a variety of Japanese snacks and goodies, including beautifully prepared bento boxes for lunch.

Tsukiji Market Tokyo TTD

Tsukiji Market Arrow

In October 2018, the world’s largest fish market, Tsukiji, shut down after 83 years and re-opened in two distinct parts. At the original location, it’s pretty much business as usual, with street-food stalls serving up everything from seared tuna to uni sandwiches in squid-ink sticky buns. Just down the road at Toyosu Market , meanwhile, you can taste fresh raw fish in a series of sushi bars and peek in on the auctions (formerly held at Tsukiji) and live fish sales from a second-story viewing station. You can also tour a large green space on the rooftop, which affords views of the Tokyo skyline.

An interior of a store.

Heiwa Doburoku Brewery Kabutocho Arrow

This simple but stylish Wakayama-based sake brewpub in Tokyo makes clever use of a corner space in Kabutocho, the recently hip neighborhood near the Tokyo Stock Exchange building. As the name suggests, the bar specializes in doburoku, a rustic style of unfiltered and lightly fermented sake characterized by its thick texture. Previously outlawed for taxation reasons, the traditional brew is making a comeback, appearing on menus at Tokyo's trendiest restaurants and bars. Large windows, pale wood fixtures, and a curved counter surrounding a small open kitchen give the bar an open and airy feel. The menu lists dry-hopped and aged doburoku, varieties made with ground adzuki red beans or black beans, and a few seasonal styles flavored with fruits or herbs. But the best place to start is with the original, plain doburoku, a thick and yogurty brew with a touch of fruity fizz. Brewer Heiwa Shuzo's excellent craft beers are served on tap (we love the golden ale infused with fragrant sansho prickly ash peppercorns), and the bar offers a nice selection of the brewery's clear, award-winning sake.

Japan Tokyo Museum Nezu

Nezu Museum Arrow

This serene museum in the Aoyama district, redesigned by celebrated architect Kengo Kuma, is a contemporary temple for traditional art. A long, covered outdoor path alongside bamboo-clad walls serves as a minimalist entrance, but once inside, double-height interiors and glass walls stretch over 40,000 square feet while keeping the experience intimate. And while the museum mixes contemporary design and traditional art on the inside—over 7,400 pieces—the outside counts, too: The property is home to a stunning private garden that’s worth the visit all on its own. The bulk of the museum’s art was once the private collection of Nezu Kaichirō, the president of Japan’s Tobu Railway. Since the midcentury, the collection grew and now comprises over 7,400 pieces.

Bohemian Tokyo in Shimokitazawa Shopping Store

Bohemian Tokyo in Shimokitazawa Arrow

Only one express stop away from the brighter-than-bright energy of Shibuya, Shimokita (what locals call Shimokitazawa) is like turning down the volume and switching to an acoustic track. It might embrace its bohemian style—with vintage stores on seemingly every block—but it doesn’t lose that unmistakable, sophisticated Japanese style in the process. Sift through secondhand shops, sip coffee, and repeat.

MonzenNakacho Tokyo

Monzen-Nakacho Arrow

The old-school neighborhood of Monzen-Nakacho—known as “Mon-Naka” among locals—has retained its colorful, salt-of-the-earth shitamachi (downtown) atmosphere since the Edo era (1603-1868). Two main draws are the stately Tomioka Hachiman Shrine and the Fukagawa Fududo temple, where you can hear the sounds of drumming and chanting from the temple’s fire ceremony, held five times a day. These days, hipster coffee shops and natural wine boîtes nestle against traditional shops selling pickles, Japanese confections, and old-timey delicacies like tsukudani—bits of seafood long-simmered in soy sauce and sugar. It’s a terrific place to spend a lazy afternoon wandering the cobbled streets and alleyways en route to the Museum of Contemporary Art in neighboring Kiba. But at night, the neighborhood comes alive with an array of reasonably priced eating and drinking spots.

teamLab borderless Tokyo

teamLab Borderless Arrow

With the first iteration of Borderless in Odaiba, the art collective Teamlab created an endlessly Instagrammable, sumptuous and surreal museum dedicated to multi-sensory digital art. Opened in 2018, the facility, which set the world record for the most visited museum dedicated to a single artist, closed its doors in 2022. However, Borderless 2.0 is set to relocate to a permanent location in the soon-to-open Azabudai Hills mixed-use complex in central Tokyo in early 2024. Boderless consists of installations that feature constantly morphing patterns and designs that seem to flow seamlessly from room to room in a maze-like space. Updated versions of some of the museum’s previous works will be on display, as well as several new installations: a room filled with hundreds of multicolored lights that run along tracks continuously and a series of interactive “light sculptures,” to name a few.

Recommended

Takanawa Hanakohro

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

14 of the best things to do in Tokyo

Joe Bindloss

Mar 25, 2024 • 10 min read

about tokyo tourism

Get to know Tokyo with these unmissable experiences © Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

Toyko is the megacity that other world capitals look up to.

Nowhere else has quite the same mix of timeless history and space-age tech, of strict tradition and up-to-the-second fashions, of bewildering crowds and moments of utter serenity.

It's the past and future wrapped up together into one thrilling package – and understandably, it's one of the top tourist destinations on the planet.

Deciding what to do in a city as vast and complex as Tokyo  can take some consideration.

You can spend your days shopping for next-century electronics in futuristic malls or finding inner peace in timeless temples and serene zen gardens, and your evenings sipping sake in back-alley bars or clubbing with the cosplay set, dressed up as a manga superhero.

A lot depends on how much time you have and how comfortable you are diving into Tokyo's complex but efficient public transport system . To maximize the experience on your first trip to Tokyo, here are our favorite things to do.

People walk in front of the Ginza Theater on a sunny day

1. Experience a traditional Japanese art form

One of Asia's most iconic cities, Tokyo only became the capital of  Japan in 1868, when the country's rulers decided to abandon centuries of conservative tradition and embrace the outside world.

Since then, Tokyo has looked firmly to the future, but the city still has a deeply traditional heart, best experienced through its arts.

Planning tip:  For a sample of traditional Tokyo, watch kabuki (theatrical dance) at the  Kabuki-za theater in  Ginza , eat a traditional multi-course kaiseki meal to a backdrop of performing geisha in  Asakusa , or admire one of the 7000-plus Japanese treasures on show at the  Edo-Tokyo Museum .

2. Dive into the fun of Akihabara's pop culture

The  Akihabara neighborhood is almost a pilgrimage destination for the city's otaku (die-hard pop-culture fans), who define their lives through themes of geeky nostalgia and artistic eccentricity.

Flanking Akihabara's main avenue, Chuo Dori, are stores full of secondhand video game consoles, towering gaming arcades and manga comics stores, as well as flagship anime merchandise shops.

If you’re on the hunt for old-school video game treasures, peruse the bountiful shelves of  Retro Game Camp and Super Potato Retro-kan. However, you don't need to love manga or anime to enjoy this quirky neighborhood.

With its neon-bright electronics stores, retro arcades, cosplay cafes – and the chance to drive go-karts through the streets – it's equal parts sensory overload, cultural immersion and just plain fun.

A vendor hands a man grilled baby octopus and uni on a plate

3. Taste the Pacific at Tokyo’s fish markets

Bestowed with the honorary title of "Japan’s Kitchen,"  Tsukiji was formerly the location of the city's most famous fish market, but the bulk of the wholesale fish-selling shifted to  Toyosu Market on Tokyo Bay in 2018.

Nevertheless, there's still plenty of action at Tsukiji, where the outer market area remains much as it was in the early Showa Period when the market was founded. The cramped alleyways are permeated by the saline smells of the Pacific.

A rainbow menagerie of sea creatures decorates the stalls from top to bottom daily, and octogenarian fishmongers hail passersby with promises of culinary delights.

Over at Toyosu, the largest seafood market in the world conducts its business inside huge ventilated hangars in Koto Ward. Built as a state-of-the-art upgrade to Tsukiji, it lacks the rustic charm of its predecessor, functioning more as an efficient seafood trading floor.

However, it’s now home to Tokyo’s legendary morning tuna auctions – a great addition to any itinerary for early risers.

Planning tip:  The fist-sized seared scallops, tamagoyaki (rolled omelet) and uni (sea urchin) sushi at Tsukiji are must-eats.

4. See cutting-edge digital art at teamLab Borderless

The modern art collective,  teamLab , has made Tokyo the focal point for its ultra-technologist experiments in art and modern media.

Engage with its digital creativity is at Borderless in Azabudai's MORI Building Digital Art Museum, where you can walk barefoot through water, gardens and large-scale artworks that move and respond to human interaction.

Weaving together several fantastical worlds, this futuristic art experience is surprisingly delightful and makes for some great photos. Digital art is trending all over Tokyo, and you'll see it worked into many other attractions around the city.

Get to know more of Tokyo through its 7 best art museums

A man stands in the mirrored entrance of the Tokyo Plaza

5. Join the shopping legions in Harajuku

The tree-lined avenue of  Omote-sandō is famed for blending modern Japanese aesthetic preferences with Western hipster trends.

This vibrant thoroughfare, lined with zelkova trees, is dominated by high-end boutiques from Emporio Armani to Gucci, housed behind jarringly creative architectural facades. The  Tokyo Plaza , with its fractal mirrored entrance, is particularly prepossessing.

The backstreets of Harajuku are Tokyo's street-fashion laboratory; this is where you'll find the trendsetters, the peacocks and the style photographers who chronicle it all – and the vintage clothing stores staffed by resident bohemians that keep everything moving.

Planning tip:  Keeping in line with the hipster theme, hit up  Commune 2nd for lunch, a large outdoor canopy surrounded by food trucks serving favorite Japanese street bites such as karaage (battered chicken thighs) and tebasaki (fried wings), alongside vegan cuisine and craft beer stalls.

6. Enjoy the big thrill of live sumo 

Sumo, one of the most enduring elements of Japan’s spiritual culture, originated in the early Nara Period (710–794 CE) when bouts between wrestlers were conceptualized as a way to entertain the Shinto gods.

Although sumo is undeniably a sport in the modern age, much of the religious pageantry lives on: the salting of the pre-bout ring, the almost ascetic dedication of wrestlers and the reverential regard in which yokozuna (grand champions) are held.

Planning tip:  Sumo has six live annual events, three of which take place in Tokyo’s  Ryōgoku Kokugikan in January, May and September. Tickets often sell out well in advance, so keep your eye on the  official website for ticket release dates. If you’re lucky enough to nab one, mentally prepare yourself for a liquid lunch of rice wine, impassioned crowd support and highly audible slaps of belly on belly.

Explore beyond Tokyo with these top day trips

Smiling young woman enjoying soup noodles with side dishes at a restaurant

7. Eat Michelin-starred Japanese cuisine

Washoku (traditional Japanese cuisine) was designated an intangible element of cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2013, and Tokyo is its standard-bearer.

More than 200 Michelin stars have been awarded to restaurants across the capital, ranging from simple ramen shops, where a bowl of soup costs less than an hourly wage, to 11-course haute cuisine menus that will burn a fairly sizable hole in your retirement fund.

Planning tip:  For raw fish, beg your hotel concierge for a seat at the elegantly simplistic  Sushi Saito (but don't be surprised if you get passed over for a local VIP). Ramen lovers should slurp stone-milled noodles topped with truffle oil at  Tsuta in Sugamo, while modern fine dining is typified by  Florilège , a double Michelin-starred French-Japanese fusion, where tasting menus are prepped in the culinary theater of an open kitchen. 

8. Have a night out at the pubs and karaoke bars in Tokyo's yokocho

Yokocho (alleyways) are as much a part of Tokyo’s culture as its urban design. Shinjuku’s  Golden Gai is the most popular yokocho zone, with 250-plus ramshackle pubs crammed into an area the size of a football field (including a vibrant collection of LGBTIQ+ dance bars).

Nomiya Yokocho is a less-touristy option in off-beat Kita-Senju, with a new wave of foreign restaurants joining the charmingly claustrophobic chaos of its traditional bars.

Alternatively, check out Kichijoji’s  Harmonica Alley , a network of corridors filled with the crackle of dripping meat skewers on open grills, cheap-as-chips standing bars pouring draft glasses of Asahi, and hole-in-the-wall snack joints.

Expect to find a karaoke parlor or two nearby where you can finish the evening at full volume.

An aerial view of the Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest crosswalks in the world, with the lit up buildings around it

9. Marvel at the crowds at Shibuya crossing 

This is the Tokyo you’ve dreamed about and seen in movies: the frenetic pace, the mind-boggling crowds, the glowing lights and the giant video screens beaming larger-than-life celebrities over the streets. At Shibuya’s famous "scramble"  crossing , all of this comes together every time the lights change, and it’s an awesome sight.

Planning tip:  Come during the day to get the perfect overhead shot from a nearby rooftop, or on a Friday or Saturday night, when you'll find the volume turned up to 11.

10. See the cherry blossoms in Yoyogi-kōen 

Come spring, thousands of cherry trees around the city burst into white and pink flowers, ushering in the season for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). If Tokyoites have one moment to let their hair down en masse, this is it.

Locals gather in huge numbers in parks and along river banks for cherry blossom-viewing parties under a canopy of pink and white flowers.

Grassy  Yoyogi-kōen , one of the city's largest parks, is where you'll find some of the most spirited and elaborate bacchanals, complete with barbecues, sake-sipping and DJ turntables. Many revelers stay long after dark for the spectacle of yozakura (illuminated blossoms at night).

The red exterior of a Buddhist temple lit up at dusk

11. Engage with Japanese spirituality in Sensō-ji 

The spiritual home of Tokyo's ancestors, the Buddhist temple of  Sensō-ji was founded more than 1000 years before the city got its official start.

While engulfed by the city today, it retains an alluring, timeless atmosphere redolent of the height of the Edo period and the mercantile bustle that defined Tokyo's golden age.

The main plaza holds a five-story pagoda, renovated in 2017, and a giant cauldron of incense kept constantly smoking by the crowds of visitors who throng the compound daily, particularly at weekends. Altogether, Sensō-ji is a heady mix of the secular and sacred and one of Tokyo's most iconic sights.

Planning tip:  Pick up snacks and souvenirs from vendors at the colorful Nakamise-dōri arcade approaching the temple complex.

12. Find your calm in the gardens of Rikugi-en

Powerful daimyo (feudal lords) ruled much of Japan from the 10th to the 19th centuries, but in Tokyo – a city stricken over the centuries by rampaging fires, earth-shattering quakes, bombing raids and poor upkeep of traditional architecture – few visible remnants of their influence remains. 

One place to look for the powerful magic of old Tokyo is at the  Rikugi-en garden in Bunkyo Ward. Designed by Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu, lord of the Kawagoe estate, around the turn of the 17th century, this is a bucolic splotch of green amid the turgid bustle of urban Tokyo.

Mossy footpaths, waka poetry-inspired spiritual masonry, mirror-like ponds and cobblestone bridges are joined by shifting autumn foliage and a resplendent weeping cherry tree in spring. Come and step back through a few centuries.

Colourful exterior of the Ghibli museum building

13. Immerse yourself in a cartoon world at the Ghibli Museum

Even those unfamiliar with the magical world of master animator Miyazaki Hayao – creator of anime classics including Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away – will find this  museum enchanting. Fans just won't want to leave.

Miyazaki designed the space himself, and like his films, it's filled with whirring steampunk-esque machines and fairy-tale structures.

While you won't see staff cosplaying any characters, many famous Ghibli characters have been cleverly worked into the fabric of the museum. Walking around really does feel a bit like falling into the fantasy worlds created by Miyazaki Hayao.

14. Discover the secrets of Shinto at Meiji-jingū

Tokyo’s largest and most famous Shintō shrine feels a world away from the bustle of the modern city. It’s reached via a long, rambling forest path marked by towering torii (entrance gates), and its grounds are vast, enveloping a series of wooden shrine buildings and landscaped gardens in a thick coat of green.

Meiji-jingū is a place of worship and a memorial to Emperor Meiji, and it’s also a place for traditional festivals and rituals, where weddings are held and milestones are celebrated – something you might catch if you time your visit right.

Here is more expert advice to help you plan your trip to Tokyo:

Here are  8 things to you need to know before traveling to Tokyo Time your visit just right with this guide to  the best times to visit Tokyo: from spring cherry blossoms to winter lights Work out where to base yourself. Here are  Tokyo's best neighborhoods

This article was first published April 2020 and updated 1 day ago

Explore related stories

Multi nationality women walking through Tokyo

Mar 23, 2024 • 17 min read

From classic Japanese food and sights to local favorites and under-the-radar trends, these are 24 of the most inspiring experiences in Japan.

Active senior husband and wife love playing Surfing in Early morning at Izu Peninsula UNESCO Global Geopark Japan

Mar 22, 2024 • 5 min read

Akihabara_shopping_Tokyo_S.jpg

Mar 14, 2024 • 7 min read

about tokyo tourism

Feb 16, 2024 • 6 min read

about tokyo tourism

Jan 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Dad and daughter in Tokyo, Japan

Aug 25, 2023 • 8 min read

where-to-go-october.jpg

Aug 11, 2023 • 8 min read

about tokyo tourism

Feb 23, 2023 • 7 min read

about tokyo tourism

Jan 12, 2023 • 5 min read

September 2, 2016: Flames shooting from a mutant vehicle at Burning Man in the evening.

Jan 2, 2023 • 12 min read

17 Unmissable Things to do in Tokyo, Japan

17 Unmissable Things to do in Tokyo, Japan

Discover the sprawling metropolis of Tokyo, the capital city of Japan — home to weird and wonderful sights, neon flashing lights, expansive gardens, tavern-filled alleys, and sensory food markets. This exciting city is hard to beat, offering a myriad of unforgettable adventures: peer through glass floors at the top of the city’s tallest skyscraper, wade through water in abstract art museums, devour rainbow-spun candy as you peruse cosplay shops, or enjoy moments of peace at sacred shrines. Experience it all with the top things to do in Tokyo!

Best Things to do in Tokyo

Tokyo is an enormous city, and there’s so much to see that you’ll definitely want to return again. Although busy, it doesn’t have the hectic feel of other Asian capital cities like Bangkok or Beijing.

shibuya crossing tokyo japan

This is mainly because of the unique Japanese culture, which centers around respect and good manners. In fact, it’s one of the safest cities in the world, meaning you can explore at any hour — although after dark is when the city really comes to life, with thousands of neon flashing lights leading the way to music-pumping restaurants and high-rise bars. 

Tip: Tokyo offers a good mix of city and nature activities, particularly as it has so many amazing green spaces. The city is also a great jumping-off point for day trips into nature, where you can really see the ‘authentic Japan’.

restaurant tokyo japan

1. Tokyo Skytree

Discover the tallest tower in the world! Yes, the Tokyo Skytree is not only the tallest structure in Japan but also the tallest tower globally, standing at a mammoth height of 634 meters. You can ascend the building to see breathtaking panoramic views of the city. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance!

things to do in Tokyo skytree

Begin your trip to the pinnacle via the four different elevators (rocketing to the top at a speed of 50 seconds per section!). The Tembo deck is the first viewpoint you’ll reach at 350 meters with a knee-shaking glass floor, giving you fantastic views of Tokyo from a different perspective. ( Get your tickets here )

tokyo skytree view

At 450 meters, you’ll reach the Tembo Gallery, the Skytree’s highest viewpoint. Here, you’ll find 360-degree panoramic views — an unmissable thing to do in Tokyo!

We recommend visiting just before sunset so you can see the city transition from day to night. After dark is special when bright neon lights illuminate the sidewalks and buildings.

Hotels in Tokyo 😴

HOTEL 1899 TOKYO

Opening Times and Tickets for Tokyo Skytree

It’s best to book your tickets in advance so that you can get them at a slightly cheaper price.

  • Advance tickets for both decks (Tembo Deck and Tembo Gallery) cost 2,700 yen (19 USD)
  • Tembo Deck (the lower viewpoint) costs 1,800 yen (12 USD).
  • Don’t worry if you forget to book tickets in advance; you can buy tickets at a slightly higher price on the same day.
  • Please also keep an eye on the weather, as high winds can lead to closure.
  • Decks are open from 10 AM to 9 PM (last entry 8.20 PM)

Book your tickets for Tokyo Skytree in advance

Budget tip : On a budget? Head for the free observation deck in the metropolitan building at Shinjuku. 

about tokyo tourism

2. Shinjuku Gyoen

Welcome to Shinjuku Gyoen – a tranquil oasis at the heart of bustling Tokyo, once only reserved for royalty. Escape the bright lights and crowds and enter a natural garden of 144 acres full of trees, traditional Japanese gardens, flowers, and unique plants.

things to do in Tokyo shinjuku gyoen

Situated right in the middle of the city, Shinjuku Gyoen is often compared to New York’s Central Park, providing an escape for Tokyo residents throughout different seasons of the year. See 900+ trees burst into color during the cherry blossom season and majestic oranges, yellows, and reds in the fall. 

Here are all your hotel options in Tokyo.

fall colored trees japan

Don’t miss the incredible greenhouse, which feels like an indoor jungle, like a small Cloud Forest in Singapore . It’s home to many tropical plants, some of which are rare and close to extinction. 

green house Shinjuku Gyoen tokyo

There are plenty of cafes and tea rooms throughout the park for refreshments. However, Starbucks deserves a special mention as it’s entirely made of windows and has a fantastic view of the park. 

Opening Times and Entry Fee: 500 yen (4 USD). Opening times are 9 AM – 5.30 PM (earlier in the winter season) and closed on Mondays. You can buy tickets on the day at the entrance or buy in advance here .

Shinjuku Gyoen starbucks

3. Teamlab Planets

One of the best things to do in Tokyo is to experience the magic of Teamlab Planets : a sensory museum experience with large-scale art spaces. Move through a series of rooms, each home to a unique experience, from giant glowing orbs and lights to water spaces filled with flowers and mirrors. ( reserve your tickets in advance here )

best things to do tokyo japan teamlab planets

As you move through the abstract art experience, you’ll be accompanied by classical music. This, combined with the 3D visuals, makes for an awe-inspiring yet tranquil experience. 

What to Wear to Teamlab Planets

Each room in Teamlab Planets offers a different sensory experience. The most important things to note are:

  • You walk through the rooms barefoot. In two rooms, you’ll walk through water, one up to your ankles and the other up to your knees. For this reason, we recommend wearing loose trousers that you can roll up above your knees.
  • You can also rent shorts at the start if you prefer. 

17 Unmissable Things to do in Tokyo, Japan

  • We don’t recommend wearing a skirt to Teamlab Planets due to the many floor mirrors (for obvious reasons!). 
  • The rooms can get warm, so leave your sweater in the lockers at the beginning.
  • You can take your phone or camera with you. However, because of the water, do so at your own risk.

teamlab tokyo

Tickets for Teamlab Planets, Tokyo

This is one of the most popular experiences in Tokyo, and tickets get booked quickly, so we recommend booking ahead to avoid disappointment. Additionally, tickets are only released a couple of months in advance. Best is to choose one of the earliest time slots.

The ticket price is 3,800 yen (27 USD), and you can reserve your tickets in advance online .

visit teamlab tokyo

4. Sensō-ji

Sensō-ji is one of the most sacred sites in the world and the most visited temple in Japan! The traditional red temple, home to a stunning 5-story pagoda, is particularly important to the Japanese and Tokyo residents. It is also the location of many important festivals throughout the year. 

best things to do in tokyo japan Sensō-ji

Legend has it that two brothers found a Kannon statue in the river, and when they let it go, it kept returning to them. The area’s chief at the time recognized this phenomenon and wanted to house the statue in his home. He even remodelled it to become a place of worship — which is now Sensō-ji. 

senso-ji temple tokyo

Visiting Sensō-ji

As you enter the main gates, you’re greeted by gigantic red pillars and Japanese lanterns, making for a great photo. There are also many food and souvenir stalls if you want to take something away to commemorate your visit.

google maps phone

Once inside, you’ll see the main temple, which you can enter. However, if you’re not religious, the interior itself is not as attractive as the external grounds, although it is special to see people praying.

Please note that the pagoda interior is fenced off, and you cannot take photos.

gate senso-ji

Entry and Opening Times: Admission is free. The main hall is open from 6.30 AM to 5 PM every day from October to March. In the summer, opening hours are extended to 5.30 PM. 

Tip: The temple is lit up at night from sunset until 11 PM, and the temple grounds are always open, making it a lovely spot to hang out in the evening. Alternatively, the Tokyo Skytree overlooks the site, offering a great view of the illuminated temple.

tokyo Sensō-ji stalls

5. Kōkyo Castle / Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace of Tokyo is an icon of the city — a fortified castle that sits high up on a stone embankment surrounded by a moat. The imperial family live here, giving it extraordinary importance in Japan. 

things to do in Tokyo kokyo castle

Although the palace itself is not open to the public in general, it’s surrounded by a vast park, so there’s plenty to explore. There is the option to apply to join a free guided tour of the palace grounds to learn more about its interesting history (10 AM and 1.30 PM daily). Otherwise, simply wander among the beautiful Japanese gardens, cross the pretty stone bridges, or relax in the grassy park. 

Note: The palace is not open to the public as it’s still the official residence of the imperial family. However, on important days of the year, the public can enter the external sections to wave at important family members who greet visitors from the balcony.

tokyo castle

Chidorigafuchi Park

On the other side of the moat, on the west side, you will find another small park called Chidorigafuchi Park. This relatively undiscovered spot is home to some of the best cherry blossom viewpoints in the city.

Rent a rowboat (open from March to November) and explore the waters surrounding the palace. This is particularly impressive in Spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

things to do in Tokyo imperial palace

6. Shibuya Crossing

Think of Tokyo, and the incredible setting of Shibuya Crossing immediately jumps to mind. This is the busiest crossing in Japan, if not in the world, where surrounding skyscrapers, huge glowing advertisements, and flashing traffic lights bathe pedestrians in a neon glow as they cross the intersection.

best things to do tokyo japan shibuya crossing

Prepare for all your senses to be sparked as you move among the many people, with music coming from all directions (shopping malls, advertisements, and music).

Although this area is one of the busiest in the city, in true Japanese fashion, it’s still exceptionally organized and respectful, with traffic lights and the politeness of Japanese people (you won’t experience any beeping here!). 

Tip: Want to see Shibuya crossing from above? Head for Shibuya Sky (reserve far in advance), an observation deck that costs 2,200 yen (15 USD) to enter. Another option is MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 , a good viewpoint on the top of a shopping mall. Tickets cost 1,500 yen (10 USD), including a drink.

tokyo japan travel guide

7. Shinjuku

Exploring the liveliest neighborhood in the city is one of the top things to do in Tokyo! Shinjuku offers the real Tokyo experience: streets full of neon flashing lights, shiny 3D advertising, such as the iconic 3D cat, and small alleyways filled with tiny bars. 

Also read: Best Things To Do in Osaka, Japan .

things to do in Tokyo shinjuku 3D cat

Head for Kabukicho, the famous entertainment district that never sleeps, where you’ll find the brightest lights in the city and Japan’s renowned karaoke bars. For this reason, we recommend visiting Shinjuku at night, when you’ll be able to make the most of the themed restaurants (like Alice in Wonderland), nightclubs, and quaint drinking holes. 

Tip: If you’re looking for something more upmarket, Shinjuku also has plenty of luxury bars, including the Park Hyatt Hotel . This hotel is famous for its incredible city view, especially at sunset. It was also the setting for some of the scenes in the Hollywood movie ‘Lost in Translation’ with Bill Murray and Scarlett Johanson. 

shinjuku tokyo japan

The Godzilla Head

Fans of Godzilla, or just those who want to see something truly out of the ordinary, should look out for the Godzilla head. This life-size scale model of the fictional character looks like he’s attacking a colossal building — just like in the movies!  Here is the exact location .

Tip: Want an incredible view of Shinjuku for free? Take the elevator to the top of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, where the viewing deck is free to visitors. It’s a budget alternative to the Sky Tree, and you can still see Mount Fuji on a clear day!

things to do in Tokyo shinjuku godzilla head

The unique area of Golden Gai in Shinjuku is an absolute must-see in Tokyo! This authentic area comprises narrow streets and many cozy taverns, some hidden away, making exploring fascinating. It’s entertaining to visit at night when it comes to life with locals and tourists. Grab the location from our Japan map or see the location . 

Tip: Golden Gai is the best place to make friends since all the bars are so tiny. Most only fit 10-15 people, so you’ll have to sit very close to each other. Order a soju and simply drink in the typically Japanese atmosphere.

about tokyo tourism

Omoide Yokocho

Explore another vibrant and traditional area in Shinjuku: Omoide Yokocho! The small timeworn buildings are home to various BBQ joints — billowing out smoke — that starkly contrast with the towering nearby skyscrapers.

Did you know? Omoide Yokocho translates as ‘memory lane’ because it gives everyone who visits a nostalgic feeling.

things to do in Tokyo shinjuku omoide yokocho

8. Shimokitazawa

What better way to spend an afternoon than vintage shopping in the trendiest district of Tokyo: Shimokitazawa! This spiderweb of streets is made up of thrift stores, record shops, street art, and plenty of aesthetic cafes — frequented by all the most stylish people of the city, each hunting through the shops to find their vintage treasures. 

things to do in Tokyo shimokitazawa thrift store

In true Japanese style, vintage shopping in Tokyo is exceptionally well organized, with various styles and sizes. However, as thrift shopping has become a ‘culture’ of its own in Japan, its popularity is reflected in the prices. Because of this, it’s not easy to source ‘cheap finds,’ but all the pieces are so beautiful it’s worth the price tag! 

Some of our favorite shops:

  • Little Trip to Heaven
  • New York Joe

Tokyo shimokitazawa streets

9. Trip to Fuji

No trip to Tokyo would be complete without a visit to Mount Fuji , and the good news is that it’s easily accessible on a day trip! The incredible area around Mount Fuji is home to five beautiful lakes, which you can visit for stunning views of the active volcano.

See our travel guide to Best Things to do at Mount Fuji .

trip from tokyo to mt fuji japan

The natural beauty here is exceptional, and in each season, you’ll find something different to look at, whether it’s the reds of the fall forests, the cherry blossom hues in Spring, or the snow-capped peak of the volcano in winter. Mount Fuji is truly our favorite part of Japan! 

See tickets and availability for a tour to Fuji from Tokyo

mt fuji hotel day trip from tokyo

Tip: Mount Fuji is doable on a day trip from Tokyo (a 2.5-hour drive). However, if you have more time, we recommend doing a multi-day trip to enjoy all the fantastic things to do in the Fuji region. There are stunning waterfalls to explore and multiple beautiful shrines that bask in the shadow of the volcano.

We recommend to rent a car in Japan through Rentalcars.com with many rental locations and flexible cancellation. Book your rental car here .

mt fuji japan waterfall

10. See the Snow Monkeys

Seeing snow monkeys in their natural habitat is a bucket list experience and, without a doubt, one of the best things to do on your trip to Tokyo! Just a 3-hour drive away is the city of Nagano, which is a jumping-off point to see these remarkable animals.

More about: Snow Monkeys Park and its Hot Springs

day trip from tokyo to snow monkeys japan

Frolicking in the woodland, discover the cheeky red-faced creatures who come into their element in the winter when the snowy conditions motivate them to kick back and relax in the nearby hot springs.

Tickets for the natural park are 800 yen (6 USD) which you can purchase at the entrance. See opening times and ticket prices here .

about tokyo tourism

There are other onsens (springs) in Yudanaka town that are accessible to humans. You’ll find plenty of them on your trip to this area, so do as the locals do and wear the traditional Yukata robe and Geta sandals as you make your way to the bathhouses. 

Please note that you are prohibited from entering Onsens if you have tattoos, this is due to the long-running stigma of tattoos in Japan.

japanese onsen

Tip: Visiting in winter? The area where the snow monkeys live (Jigokudani Valley) is in the mountains, where you’ll find fantastic snow conditions and some of Japan’s best ski resorts.

Join this day tour to see the snow monkeys, which leaves from Tokyo and includes entrance and return transportation.

japanese slippers

11. Trip to Kamakura

A world away from the bright neon lights of Tokyo, but just 1.5 hours by car, is the charming fishing village of Kamakura. Quite unexpectedly, this Japanese seaside town is a favorite for surfers and city slickers who come here for their beach holidays. 

things to do in Tokyo japan kamakura buddha

Enjoy some downtime here — explore the hiking trails, take in the views of the sea (with Mount Fuji visible inland), and swim during the summer months. The town is also home to some fantastic ancient architecture and beautiful temples and shrines, making it exceptionally peaceful. 

kamakura japan day trip from tokyo

Tip: Started your trip from Tokyo early? Get your breakfast + coffee at the Delifrance bakery at the train station in Kamakura. From here, you can take the bus or the train to other spots in the city.

Get a Japan Rail Pass to use throughout your trip!

old tram kamakura japan

12. See a Sumo Game

Seeing Japan’s national sport take place in real-time is one of the top things to do in Tokyo! The country is famous worldwide for the unusual and ancient sport of Sumo wrestling (Basho), which has been practiced in Japan for thousands of years. During the game, each athlete attempts to push the other out of the circular ring while wearing the traditional loincloth called a mawashi. 

Buy your tickets for a Sumo wrestling tournament here

things to do in Tokyo sumo game

Buy tickets for one of the arenas in Tokyo and watch this epic game unfold! We recommend joining a tour that includes tickets, reserved seating, and a guide who can explain more about the game’s history and how it works.

For something a little different, join a tour to see the morning practice. Watch the wrestlers’ rigorous training routine and snap a photo or two with your favorites!

Join this popular tour to see the Sumo morning practice

sumo game tokyo japan

13. Go Kart through Tokyo

Experience one of the most popular things to do in Tokyo: an exhilarating Go Kart ride through the city ! Ditch the typical tour bus and get behind the wheel of this adrenaline-pumping car, making your way down the fast-paced roads of Tokyo. A guide will lead you and tell you all about the most iconic sights as you go.

things to do in Tokyo go kart

To make this experience even more memorable, you can pick from various fun costumes to brighten the day — and create incredible photos for your trip. 

See availability for a Go Kart tour through Tokyo!

go kart tour tokyo japan

14. Koishikawa Korakuen

Located in the district of Koishikawa, discover the botanical gardens of Koishikawa Korakuen, which is also thought to be the oldest Japanese garden in Tokyo! Traditional Japanese gardens throughout the country are designed with ponds, stones, and bridges to mimic the natural beauty of the landscapes, and Koishikawa Korakuen is no different. 

Opening Times and Entrance Fee: 9 AM – 5 PM. Entrance 300 yen (2 USD)

about tokyo tourism

The maple and cherry trees in this botanical garden burst into different colors according to the season. We visited in the fall when we had a vibrant mixture of reds, oranges, and yellows. The trees also attract some incredible bird species, making the botanical gardens popular for bird watchers. You might even have the chance to spot the graceful Kingfisher.

koishikawa korakuen tokyo japan botanical garden

15. Takeshita Street in Harajuku

At the heart of the Harajuku district, you’ll find the most colorful and busy street in Tokyo! Takeshita Street is weird and wonderful, with various stores selling bright, eccentric clothing — everything from anime costumes to platform heels and velvet bows. It’s overwhelming but brilliant all at the same time, with loud music, strange candy vendors, crepes, and fluorescently colored shopfronts. 

takeshita street harajuku tokyo japan

Although Takeshita Street is the most famous in the area, we recommend crossing the street and wandering around the rest of Harajuku. It’s much more chilled, home to contemporary art galleries, vintage stores, collectible sneakers, and luxury brands — a complete mix!

cute crepe patisserie

16. Meiji Shrine

After the hustle and bustle of Harajuku, visit the neighboring peaceful oasis of Meiji. This stunning Shinto shrine is set in the middle of Tokyo in a tranquil forest of over 100,000 trees. 

The park’s entrance is close to Harajuku station. First, pass through the Torii Gate (traditional gates that mark where the ordinary world ends and the sacred world starts) and then enjoy a relaxing 15-minute stroll through the parkland to reach the Meiji Shrine.

things to do tokyo meiji shrine

Once there, you’ll see people cleaning, performing religious tasks, and praying to the gods. You can also write out your wishes for the gods on the wooden tablets (Ema) placed near the shrine — a beautiful and spiritual moment during your time in Tokyo. 

Note: Because the shrine is sacred, photos are prohibited at the main Meiji Jingu.

tokyo japan meiji shrine

If you want some refreshments, we recommend visiting a small garden inside the park, where you’ll find an old tea house that you can enter for the price of 500 yen (3.50 USD)

Opening Times and Entrance Fee : The shrine is open from sunrise to sunset with no entrance fee. If you wish to visit the museum, tickets cost 1000 yen (7 USD).

One of the best things to do in Tokyo, the Hie shrine is definitely worth a stop on your city trip. If you’ve already visited Kyoto , you’ll notice it looks similar to the famous red shrine of Fushimi Inari Taisha. 

Also read: Things to do in Kyoto, Japan

about tokyo tourism

This sacred spot sits on a hilltop in the city, with a gigantic cherry tree at the entrance, which makes the shrine look extra special in spring. Although the shrine is lovely, the most beautiful element of the whole site is at the back entrance. Here, you’ll find 90 exquisite red torii gates, each painted with Japanese characters, that form a long tunnel.

Opening times: 6 AM to 5 PM. Free entrance.

17. Tsukiji Outer Market

Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of Tsukiji Outer Market – Tokyo’s famous fish market! Sprawling over a few blocks, the fish market is enormous, filled with hundreds of stalls, all selling different kinds of seafood, complete with bright signs and price markers. It’s a great spot to see what local life is like as you watch restaurants and locals buying their fish for dinner.

Tip: The busiest streets are Tsukiji Nishi-dōri and Tsukiji Naka-dōri, so head there for the liveliest experience.

about tokyo tourism

We recommend trying some of Japan’s delicacies: fresh, thinly sliced sashimi, oysters, sushi rolls, or BBQ-ed fish. The best way to do so is to join a food tour, as the tour guide will recommend the best stalls to visit and also give you some fun facts about the market.

See availability for a tour of Tsukiji Outer Market

tokyo fish market

Top Tips for Visiting Tsukiji Outer Market 

  • Opening times 9 AM – 2 PM (closed on Sundays and Wednesdays)
  • Arrive before 10 AM (afterwards, it gets crowded)
  • Prepare yourself for the strong fish smell – it’s not for the faint of heart! 
  • Wear closed-toes shoes as the floor is wet. Avoid wearing sandals or high heels.
  • Some stalls don’t accept credit cards, so take cash just in case.

fish market tokyo japan

Best Restaurants & Cafes in Tokyo

Tokyo has to be one of the best places to eat in the world! You can look forward to dining on all the Japanese favorites like Sushi, Ramen, and Soba noodles, whether you purchase from market vendors or dine at high-end fusion restaurants.

matcha cafe japan in bamboo forest

In reality, every kind of food you can imagine is sourceable in Tokyo; you’ll also find plenty of Italian and French restaurants and plentiful bakeries serving freshly baked pastries – most delicious when eaten warm first thing in the morning. Some of our favorites are:

  • Bricolage Bread & Co
  • Sushi Ishii
  • Citron Aoyama
  • Fuglen Asakusa
  • Palermo Akasaka
  • Falafel Brothers
  • & sandwich.
  • Afuri Ramen

best sushi restaurant tokyo japan

Top Tip: It’s no secret that Tokyo is expensive, so if you’d like to have a quick snack or an affordable takeaway lunch, we recommend going to the supermarkets 7-Eleven, Family Mart, or Lawson. You can find delicious Onigiri (a rice ball with fish inside and packed in crunchy seaweed) or even mix a cup of frozen fruits into a smoothie.

Make sure to bring your reusable water bottle with you; you can drink water from the taps in most places in Japan! This is a good way to save money and travel plastic-free .

7-eleven onigiri tokyo japan

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Tokyo is a massive city with neighborhoods to suit every kind of traveler. Even if you choose to stay further out, the fantastic metro system makes it easy to travel between districts. 

We stayed in the neighborhood of Akasaka , which is close to many of the top things to do in Tokyo and has great restaurants and cafes. It also has excellent train connections, yet it is still away from the main crowds.

best hotels tokyo japan

Hotels near Shinjuku station are also a good option (particularly good for nightlife and restaurants). The same is true for the area surrounding Tokyo Station , which provides the most connections to the rest of the city.

  • Hotels near Shinjuku Station
  • Hotels at Tokyo Station
  • Hotels at Akasaka

about tokyo tourism

How Many Days in Tokyo?

There are so many incredible things to do in Tokyo that we recommend spending at least two days exploring. Three to four days would be perfect (this excludes day trips), allowing you to visit all the main sites and leave plenty of time for dining, nightlife, and museums. 

Tokyo is an excellent jumping-off point for day trips in Japan, primarily because of the superfast bullet trains that can take you out of the city in a matter of minutes. 

streets tokyo

How to Visit Tokyo

Tokyo has two international airports that serve the city, Haneda and Narita. Narita is further away (60 KM east of the city), so we recommend flying into Haneda for ease.

From here, it’s just a 30-minute train into the city center, or you can arrange a private transfer if you have a lot of luggage.

Book your airport transfer in advance

tokyo train station

There is a lack of elevators and escalators in Tokyo’s metro stations, making it more challenging to maneuver your suitcase when traveling into the city. Because of this, luggage transfer services are very common. For example, Yamato Transport can arrange to bring your luggage from the airport to your hotel and vice versa.

Tip: It’s best to get an eSim in advance so you’re directly connected when you land in Japan. Buy your sim online here .

metro tokyo japan

Getting Around

Getting around Tokyo is super easy; the organized Japanese public transport system makes traveling a dream! Metros and trains reach every corner of the city, and best of all, they’re super affordable. 

Note: Because the travel network in Tokyo is so organized, you’ll never experience delays; trains and metros depart precisely at the minute specified.

Walking around the city is highly recommended. It’s the best way to take in the vibe of Tokyo, and there’s something out of the ordinary to see on every street corner. When you get tired, you can download a taxi app (Uber and GoTaxi are the best, with GoTaxi being the cheaper option).

trendy japanese family

Is the JR Pass worth it? ( Calculate it here ) The Japan Rail Pass gives you unlimited access to all public transport throughout Japan, so it’s a great option if you plan on taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) several times. It’s also multi-use for other trains, ferries, and buses throughout the country. 

Buy your Japan Rail Pass in advance

jr pass bullet train japan

How Much Does Tokyo Cost?

Like most of Japan, Tokyo upholds its reputation as one of the most expensive cities in the world. However, we were pleasantly surprised that entrance tickets, food and public transport cost much less than anticipated. The higher costs were for accommodation, which is more expensive than anywhere else in the country. Because of this, we recommend booking well in advance to try and score the cheapest deal. 

Tip: Capsule hotels are very popular in Tokyo, offering a budget alternative to the traditional hotel experience. 

Costs of Traveling in Tokyo

Travel on a budget in Tokyo, from $480 − $950 USD weekly per person, mid-range $2100 − $4230 USD, and high-end from $3880 − $6030 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

  • Hotels: $150 − $500 USD Check available hotels
  • Hostels: $20 − $85 USD Check available hostels
  • Transport: $5 − $50 USD Book public transport
  • Car Rental: $35 − $150 USD Book a rental car
  • Food: $30 − $150 USD
  • Activities: $10 − $50 USD See tickets & tours
  • Sim: $1 − $5 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
  • Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

vintage store tokyo japan

Best Time to Visit Tokyo

With so many things to do in Tokyo, you can visit at any time of the year and be spoilt for choice. However, the most beautiful season is Spring when the cherry blossoms are out, covering the city in pink flowers. Bear in mind that this is also the most popular time to visit, raising prices and demand for accommodation. 

Note: Although many sights in Tokyo can get busy, it’s rarely hectic as a result of the fantastic organization and good manners of the Japanese people.

Fall is an excellent alternative. It’s still busy, but it’s a little less expensive than Spring. You’ll still get to see the maple trees burst into the typical fall colors, which creates a fiery backdrop to Tokyo’s towering skyscrapers and neon lights.

Tip: In both seasons, fall and spring, you’ll need to book ahead for tours, tickets, and accommodations to avoid disappointment.

Shinjuku Gyoen park tokyo japan

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

  • Find Hotels via Booking.com
  • Find a Rental Car via Rentalcars.com
  • Find Flights to Tokyo via Skyscanner
  • Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
  • Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
  • Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Snow Monkey Park: Japan’s Hot Spring Oasis

12 best things to do at mount fuji, japan, 9 things to do in nara park (the deer of japan).

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  Notify me when new comments are added.

Explore Tokyo

about tokyo tourism

Plan Your Trip to Tokyo: Best of Tokyo Tourism

maryyeo

Travel Advice

about tokyo tourism

Find flight deals to Tokyo

Essential tokyo.

about tokyo tourism

Where to stay

about tokyo tourism

Where to eat

about tokyo tourism

How to spend 7 days in Tokyo

about tokyo tourism

The Best Free Things to Do in Tokyo

about tokyo tourism

Explore Tokyo by interest

Only in tokyo.

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo on a dime

about tokyo tourism

If you’re feeling fancy-ish

about tokyo tourism

Stop and smell the roses

about tokyo tourism

See the city after dark

about tokyo tourism

Sip on some sake

about tokyo tourism

Take a break at a teahouse

about tokyo tourism

The city’s a stage

about tokyo tourism

All about that view

about tokyo tourism

For the history buff

about tokyo tourism

More Asian cultural capitals

about tokyo tourism

PlanetWare.com

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tokyo

Written by Meagan Drillinger and Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 19, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

When it comes to the greatest cities in the world, you cannot do better than Tokyo. A juxtaposition of deep tradition and fast-paced, modern energy, Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, is one of the best places to visit in Asia . It is home to the Imperial Palace and the seat of Government and Parliament, as well as luxury hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and fantastic shopping. Located in East-Central Honshu, the largest of Japan's main islands, this heavily populated city serves as a great base from which to explore other parts of the country.

Sensō-ji Temple in the Asakusa district of Tokyo

One of the world's most modern cities in terms of its infrastructure and design — due largely to the 1923 earthquake and the devastation of WWII — Tokyo also holds the title of the world's most expensive city in which to live. Fortunately, it's also one of the easiest to get around thanks to its superb rail and subway networks.

The cultural side of Tokyo is famous for its numerous things to do and top attractions, including museums; festivals; internationally noted cuisine; and professional sports clubs, including baseball, football, and traditional Japanese pursuits like sumo wrestling. It's also a city rich in music and theater, with numerous venues featuring everything from Japanese modern dramas to symphony orchestras and pop and rock concerts.

Explore the city with our list of the top things to do in Tokyo.

1. Enjoy Nature and Art at the Meiji Shrine

2. explore the shinjuku gyoen national garden, 3. enjoy nature at ueno park and ueno zoo, 4. visit the sensō-ji temple, 5. shop 'til you drop in the ginza district, 6. see the view from the tokyo skytree, 7. wander through the tokyo national museum, 8. tour the imperial palace, 9. visit the miraikan and edo-tokyo museums, 10. stop in at the national museum of nature and science, 11. spend time at the national museum of western art, 12. enjoy the collections at the national art center, 13. see a show at the kabuki-za theatre, ginza, 14. get lost at yomiuriland, 15. scope the fashion in harajuku, 16. take a walk at shibuya crossing, where to stay in tokyo for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to tokyo, map of tourist attractions & things to do in tokyo, best time to visit tokyo, japan.

The Meiji Shrine

Highlights : An important religious site surrounded by 175 acres of forest

Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken, the construction of the splendid Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingū) began in 1915 and was completed in 1926. Although the original structure was destroyed during WWII, it was rebuilt in 1958 and remains one of Tokyo's most important religious sites.

Surrounded by a 175-acre evergreen forest that is home to some 120,000 trees representing species found across Japan — as well as the interesting "wishing tree," on which visitors can write and hang their deepest wishes — the shrine's highlights include its Inner Precinct (Naien) with its museum containing royal treasures, and the Outer Precinct (Gaien).

It's in the Outer Precinct that you'll find the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery with its superb collection of murals relating to the lives of the emperor and empress. Be sure to also visit the adjacent Meiji Shrine Inner Garden (Yoyogi Gyoen), an attractive public garden complete with a teahouse, iris garden, and a pleasant arbor.

Address: 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Highlights : Three types of traditional gardens in one, including 1,500 cherry trees

Walk through one of Tokyo's most historic pieces of land when you visit the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Formerly the residence of the Naito family during the Edo period (17th-19th centuries), it was transferred to the Imperial Family. It is now a national garden, which opened in 1949, and is considered to be one of the most beautiful in Japan.

The garden is considered one of the best because it fuses together three types of traditional garden: French Formal, English Landscape, and Japanese traditional. It also happens to be one of the best spots in Tokyo to view the cherry blossoms , as the garden has roughly 1,500 cherry trees. You'll also find Himalayan cedars, cypresses, and tulip trees. The garden is very popular in the autumn, when the leaves start to change to crimson and gold.

Other features of the garden include a greenhouse, beautiful ponds, and several pavilions.

Address: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo

Ueno Park and Ueno Zoo

Highlights : A 212-acre park home to ponds, historic shrines, and the Ueno Zoo

A paradise-like oasis of green in the heart of busy Tokyo, Ueno Park (Ueno Kōen) is the city's largest green space and one of its most popular tourist attractions. In addition to its lovely grounds, the park also boasts numerous temples and museums to explore.

Criss-crossed by pleasant gravel paths, this 212-acre park includes highlights such as a trip on a small boat on the reed-fringed Shinobazu pond , around a little island with its Bentendo Temple. Be sure to also visit the 17th-century Toshogu Shrine (Nikkō Tōshō-gū), with its 256 bronze and stone lanterns.

Another highlight here is Ueno Zoo (Onshi Ueno Dōbutsuen). Opened in 1882, it is Japan's oldest zoo, and is famous for the pandas presented by the People's Republic of China.

While it's a large attraction and houses more than 3,00 animals representing some 400 species, having a fun monorail connecting its various components can help speed up a visit (and make it even more enjoyable).

The Aqua-Zoo , one of the largest aquariums in Asia, is also worth a visit, especially if you're traveling with kids.

Address: 9-83 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo

Ueno-Park - Floor plan map

Highlights : A centuries-old temple with a 3.3-meter-high red paper lantern and incense that is said to heal ailments

In the Asakusa district of Tokyo, the exquisite Sensō-ji Temple (Kinryū-zan Sensō-ji)) – the city's most famous shrine – stands at the end of a long street market hosting vendors selling masks, carvings, combs made of ebony and wood, toys, kimonos, fabrics, and precious paper goods.

Dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of compassion, the temple was established in AD 645 and retains its original appearance despite having been rebuilt numerous times.

Highlights of a visit include seeing the Kaminari-mon Gate with its 3.3-meter-high red paper lantern bearing the inscription "Thunder Gate," as well as the famous and much-loved Incense Vat, reputed to drive away ailments (you'll see people cupping their hands around the smoke and applying it to the part of their body needing healing).

Also of note are the fascinating temple doves, said to be Kannon's sacred messengers. Be sure to drop a coin in the Omikuji boxes near the entrance, from which you can retrieve a piece of paper that will tell your fortune.

Afterward, be sure to explore the rest of the 50-acre temple precinct with its warren of lanes. If you can, revisit the temple again at night for a completely different (and far less crowded) illuminated experience.

Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo 111-0032

Asakusa - Floor plan map

Highlights : A paradise for shoppers with hundreds of shops and restaurants in one of the world's largest pedestrian zones

Ginza is Tokyo's busiest shopping area and it's as iconic as Times Square in New York, and much older. It has in fact been the commercial center of the country for centuries and is where five ancient roads connecting Japan's major cities all met. Lined by exclusive shops and imposing palatial stores, the Ginza district is also fun to simply wander around or. Better still, sit in one of its many tea and coffee shops or restaurants while watching the world rush past.

At weekends, when everything is open, it's a shopper's paradise as traffic is barred, making it one of the world's largest pedestrian zones. Come nightfall, gigantic advertising panels on its many buildings bathe Ginza in bright neon light.

It's also where you'll find the famous Kabuki-za Theatre (see #12 below), home to traditional Kabuki performances, as well as the Shinbashi Enbujō Theatre in which Azuma-odori dances and Bunraku performances are staged.

Tokyo Skytree

Highlights : The tallest structure in the country, featuring a restaurant and multiple observation decks

It's hard to miss the Tokyo Skytree (Tōkyō Sukaitsurī). This 634-meter-tall communications and observation tower rises out of the city's Sumida district of Minato like a huge rocket ship.

The country's tallest structure (and the world's tallest freestanding tower), the Tokyo Skytree opened in 2012 and has quickly become one of the city's most visited tourist attractions thanks to the incredible panoramic views from its restaurant and observation decks.

With a base designed in the form of a massive tripod, the tower includes a number of cylindrical observation levels, including one at the 350-meter mark, and another at the 450-meter point - the latter includes a unique glass spiral walkway to an even higher viewpoint with glass floors for those with strong stomachs.

Be sure to also check out the smaller and much older Tokyo Tower , built in 1958 and once the city's tallest structure.

Address: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo

Tokyo National Museum

Highlights : One of the largest collections of historic Japanese clothing and pottery from across Asia

Tokyo National Museum (ōkyō Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan) houses more than 100,000 important works of Japanese, Chinese, and Indian art, including more than 100 national treasures.

Opened in 1938, the TNM, as it's usually known, includes highlights such as numerous Buddhist sculptures from Japan and China dating from the 6th century to the present, as well as fine collections of old textiles, historical weapons, and military equipment.

Also noteworthy are its large collections of historical Japanese clothing and Asian ceramics and pottery. Important artwork includes Japanese paintings from the 7th to the 14th centuries, and another must-see is the museum's exquisite collections of Japanese and Chinese masterpieces of lacquer work of various centuries, including examples of lacquer-carving, gold lacquer, and lacquer with mother of pearl. There are also many fine examples of calligraphy.

English-language guided tours are available. Also worth a visit is the museum's traditional Japanese landscape garden with its three pavilions, including the 17th-century Tein Teahouse (Rokuso-an), and the nearby Museum for East Asiatic Art with its 15 exhibition galleries.

Address: 13-9 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo

The Imperial Palace

Highlights : A 17th-century palace known for its historic walls, bridge, gate, and garden

The chief attraction of Tokyo's Marunouchi district is the Imperial Palace (Kōkyo) with its beautiful 17th-century parks surrounded by walls and moats. Still in use by the Imperial family, the Imperial Palace stands on the site where, in 1457, the Feudal Lord Ota Dokan built the first fortress, the focal point from which the city of Tokyo (or Edo, as it was then) gradually spread.

As famous as the palace is the Nijubashi Bridge leading to its interior, a structure that takes its name ("double bridge") from its reflection in the water. Other notable features include the two-meter-thick wall surrounding the palace and its gates, one of which leads to the East Higashi-Gyoen Garden.

Tours of the Imperial Palace are available (pre-registration required) and include the Kikyo-mon Gate, Someikan (Visitors' House), Fujimi-yagura ("Mt. Fuji View" Keep), the East Gardens and Inner Gate, the Seimon-tetsubashi bridge, and the Imperial Household Agency Building (be sure to plan ahead).

Another fortress that can be visited is Edo Castle (Chiyoda Castle). Built in 1457, it's located in Tokyo's Chiyoda district.

Address: 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111

National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)

Highlights : Hands-on exhibits that teach visitors about everything from earthquakes to weather, energy, robotics, and much more

One of Tokyo's newest museums, the impressive National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Nippon Kagaku Mirai-kan) – usually simply referred to as the Miraikan – offers a fascinating insight into Japan's leading role in the field of technology.

Created by Japan's Science and Technology Agency, this ultra-modern, purpose-built facility includes many hands-on interactive exhibits dealing with everything from earthquakes to weather, as well as renewable energy and robotics. Highlights include a number of displays relating to modern transportation such as a superb model of a Maglev train, as well as a robotics exhibition.

Also worth visiting is the Edo-Tokyo Museum. Completed in 1993, the museum's exhibits deal with the region's rich past, present, and future. Of particular interest is a replica bridge leading into a mock-up of dwellings in the original old city of Edo.

Address: 2-3-6 Aomi, Koto City, Tokyo

Dinosaur skeleton at the National Museum of Nature and Science

Highlights : A newly renovated museum housing 250,000 items related to natural history and science

Located in Tokyo's Ueno Park , the superb National Museum of Nature and Science (Kokuritsu Kagaku Hakubutsukan) opened in 1871 and is one of the country's oldest museums.

Now completely renovated and modernized, the museum also boasts a reputation as one of the country's busiest and largest museums, housing a vast collection of some 250,000 materials related to natural history and science.

These include many fascinating interactive displays on space development, nuclear energy, and transportation, each allowing visitors a unique insight into the latest scientific and technological advances. Highlights of the Japan Gallery (Nihonkan) include numerous exhibits of prehistoric creatures and the history of the Japanese people, including traditional customs and outfits. In the Global Gallery (Chikyūkan) you'll see many excellent scientific and technology displays, including robotics and vintage vehicles.

Address: 7-20 Uenokoen, Taito, Tokyo 110-871

Sculptures at the National Museum of Western Art

Highlights : A collection of international artists, including Rodin, Monet, Manet, Degas, and many more

Located in Ueno Park and just three minutes' walk from Ueno Station stands the National Museum of Western Art (Kokuritsu Seiyō Bijutsukan). It was built in 1959 to plans by famous Swiss architect Le Corbusier.

The exhibits, largely made up of works by important French artists, come mainly from the collections of Japanese businessman and art collector Kojiro Matsukata, bought during visits to Europe early in the 20th century.

In the courtyard are works by French sculptor Auguste Rodin, while highlights inside are canvases by Impressionists Paul Cézanne, Claude Monet, Edouard Manet, and Edgar Degas. The museum also boasts an excellent restaurant with great views over the courtyard.

Address: 7-7 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo

The National Art Center

Highlights : A permanent collection of more than 600 paintings from the 20th century

Another of Tokyo's world-class museums, the excellent National Art Center (Kokuritsu Shin-Bijutsukan) is housed in a remarkable curved glass building in the city's Roppongi district. This superb facility only opened in 2007 and has since earned a well-deserved reputation for its fine permanent collection of more than 600 paintings, most from the 20th century. These include many important pieces of modern art and regular visiting exhibitions.

Also worth checking out is the Mori Art Museum (Mori Bijutsukan) on the top floors of the neighboring Roppongi Hills Mori Tower . This fine art museum is notable for its regular exhibits of contemporary artwork from around the globe.

Address: 7-22-2 Roppongi Minato City, Tokyo

The Kabuki-za Theatre, Ginza

Highlights : A stunning theater showcasing a centuries-old style of performance

Tokyo is home to a number of excellent theaters, none as well known as the historic Kabuki-za Theatre in the city's busy Ginza district , home to famous traditional Kabuki performances.

Based upon a medieval, highly skilled, and often burlesque theatrical form including song and dance, the theater's performances are as popular among tourists as they are with Japanese-speaking people.

The drama and comedy are relatively easy to follow thanks to rich visuals and theatricality. The theater's interior, usually full to capacity with some 2,000 guests, is always intimate and seems more akin to an enormous family get-together than a stage show due to the fact that spectators bring their own food or purchase treats from the various restaurants spread around the auditorium (go for one of the tasty bento box meals).

Performances can last for hours, and spectators stay as long as they wish (or as long as they can bear). And no one seems to take offense at people's comings and goings, nor their loud cheering or jeering.

Address: 4 Chome-12-15 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061

Yomiuriland

Highlights : An amusement park with hundreds of cherry trees, water attractions, and rides

Sometimes you just want a day to be a kid again, and that's exactly what Yomiuriland has given to the residents of Tokyo since 1964. This amusement park sits 30 minutes from Tokyo and is home to more than 40 attractions and seasonal activities – think roller coasters, rides, light shows, and even a bungee jump.

The park is open year-round and provides something exciting to do at each time of year. In the spring, the park's more than 1,000 cherry trees blush with a blanket of powder-soft pinks. The summer means the opening of the park's many pools and water attractions. Come winter, the landscape is transformed into a twinkling snowscape wonderland.

Most travelers come to Yomiuriland to ride the Bandit, a rollercoaster that snakes its way through the tops of the cherry trees. Of course, the summer pools and waterslides are also a major selling point for this thrill park. Visitors will also find shopping and restaurants and a stage for entertainment.

Address: 4015-1 Yanokuchi, Inagi, Tokyo 206-8566, Japan

Harajuku, Tokyo

Highlights : Outrageous fashion and futuristic boutiques sit alongside historic attractions and museums.

Nothing is too outrageous when it comes to Tokyo's frenetic Harajuku District. The neighborhood refers to the area near the Harajuku Station, sandwiched between Shinjuku and Shibuya. If you're looking to bend the rules when it comes to everything cultural and fashionable, this is the spot to go.

The main artery of Harajuku (and the best place to spot the crazy teen fashions) is Takeshita Dori, which is flanked on either end by wild and wacky shops. Pink hair, tattoos, and knee-high boots are just the tip of the iceberg here. Even if your style is on the tamer side, fret not – Harajuku has plenty of more mainstream boutiques, as well.

But Harajuku is also home to several historical attractions. Meiji Jingu is located here, as is the small Ota Memorial Museum of Art. Overall, it's the perfect neighborhood to encapsulate Japan's deep-rooted traditions with its surges of futuristic styles.

Aerial view of Shibuya Crossing

Highlight : More than 3,000 human beings cross the streets at once at this five-way intersection.

If you've never seen an image of Shibuya Crossing, you may want to take a look before you go. Think Times Square, and multiply it several times over. This intersection is one of the most famous in the world, and most definitely the busiest in Japan, flooded with hundreds of thousands of flashing lights from electronic billboards overhead.

At peak times, it is thought that somewhere around 3,000 people cross this five-way intersection at once. It is undoubtedly the mass-transit nucleus of Tokyo. But if the thought of crossing the street with 3,000 of your newest friends is overwhelming, you can always head to the rooftop of the Shibuya 109-2 department store, which has the best bird's-eye view over the organized chaos below.

And even if you aren't in Shibuya to cross the street, you will still find that this neighborhood is absolutely teeming with fabulous restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. It is certainly a neighborhood not to miss when you visit Tokyo.

The best area to stay in Tokyo is the city center within walking distance of top attractions, such as the Imperial Palace, and close to Tokyo Station with its public transit and high-speed rail connections. The following hotels are highly recommended:

Luxury Hotels:

  • Perched atop an office tower on the edge of Tokyo's financial district, the high-rise Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo offers excellent views over the city. Rooms and suites are posh, with chic decor and comfy beds. There are 10 restaurants on-site. You'll also find a spa, an indoor swimming pool, and a fitness center.
  • Also boasting great views, this time over Tokyo Bay, is the Conrad Tokyo . This luxury hotel is also popular for its proximity to the Ginza district, which is home to great shopping and dining. On-site amenities here include an excellent Cantonese restaurant, a Japanese restaurant with views across the bay, and a third restaurant serving upmarket European fare. You'll also find a swanky spa with an indoor pool and gym in the building.
  • Some of the best views in the city are discovered at the refurbished Palace Hotel Tokyo . If you are on a romantic getaway, book one of the posh rooms with a balcony overlooking the gardens of the Imperial Palace. If you're traveling with the kids, many of the suites have kitchens along with separate living rooms. There are multiple restaurants on-site, as well as an indoor swimming pool and a workout room. Finally, treat yourself to a massage at the luxe spa.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • Close to the Imperial Palace and overlooking the magnificent red brick Renaissance-style Tokyo Station, Hotel Ryumeikan Tokyo is also near the city's best dining and shopping. This good-value option offers contemporary rooms with Nespresso machines and mini-fridges. Some have tatami mats and futons. On-site amenities include a few dining options and a traditional tearoom.
  • Another good mid-range option near public transport and shopping is Hotel Niwa Tokyo . The hotel is located north of the Imperial Palace and adjacent to the Tokyo Dome baseball stadium. It offers clean and comfortable rooms – some even feature whirlpool baths. There are two restaurants on-site, as well as a gym.
  • A great family hotel is the Courtyard by Marriott Tokyo Ginza , just a five-minute walk from the Ginza shopping district. The rooms here feature Japanese-inspired art and comfy beds. The suites also have separate living spaces, which is a bonus for parents. When it comes time to eat, you have three on-site restaurant options, including a Japanese restaurant with hostesses in kimonos and its own tempura counter.

Budget Hotels:

  • Just minutes from the iconic Tokyo Tower and Shiba Park, Richmond Hotel Tokyo Shiba offers reasonably priced accommodations. It is especially popular for its proximity to the Haneda Express Monorail, the direct link to Tokyo's international airport. There is free Wi-Fi and a Starbucks café on-site.
  • Another economy choice located just across the road from the Kanda River and a quick stroll to the nearest metro station is Hotel Mystays Asakusabashi . The property features tidy but basic rooms with free Wi-Fi. If you want to cook for yourself to save cash, book one with a kitchenette. Amenities include a convenience store on-site, as well as bike rentals.
  • If you are really traveling on a tight budget then check out Hotel Yanagibashi , which offers some inexpensive hostel-style shared rooms. There are also cheaper private rooms with shared baths and slightly more expensive private rooms with en-suite baths. There is a communal kitchen so you can cook for yourself, free Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities on-site.
  • Sightseeing & History in Tokyo : Tokyo is a big city, and taking a tour is a time-efficient way to see the top sites and one of the best ways to learn about what you are seeing. For a little bit of everything, the 1-Day Tokyo Bus Tour is a great option. This is a 10-hour tour taking in some of the city's top sites, like the Skytree, a cruise on Tokyo Bay, a visit to the Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and more.
  • Day Trip to Nikko National Park: Get outside the steel and concrete of Tokyo and into the lush greenery of Nikko National Park with this full-day excursion. The tour takes you into the rolling countryside, past sacred shrines, and into temples. The Nikko 1-Day Bus Tour features Toshogu Shrine, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also visit Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls.
  • Visit Mt. Fuji : Get up close and personal with one of Japan's biggest attractions: Mount Fuji. On the Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Lake Ashi Cruise, and Bullet Train Day Trip, you'll be whisked out of the city into the countryside for a visit to Mt. Fuji and some of Japan's other top sites. This tour is approximately 12 hours and also includes Mt. Hakone.

Tokyo is a city that enjoys a temperate climate year-round. But the best time to visit Tokyo is March, April, September, October, and November , thanks to its perfect weather and beautiful blossoms and foliage.

September, October, and November are some of the best times to visit Tokyo because they have the best weather. The weather in Tokyo in the fall ranges from 27 degrees to 16 degrees Celsius. The fall is also when the leaves in Tokyo start to change, particularly in October and November. Keep in mind that this is peak time for travelers, so hotel rates may be higher, and expect crowds.

Tokyo is also fabulous during March, April, and May. Temperatures range from 13 to 22 degrees Celsius. April is when Tokyo is awash in pale pink cherry blossoms, as well.

Summers in Tokyo are also top times for tourists, particularly June, July, and August. Expect throngs of crowds during the summer months, as well as heat and humidity. Still, this is one of the top times for tourists to visit Tokyo because schools are out on summer break.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

image

While in Tokyo : Be sure to spend time exploring the many great attractions within an easy day trip of Tokyo . Highlights include family favorites Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo Disney Sea, as well as a great trip to majestic Mount Fuji .

image

Take the Train : Thanks to Japan's superb rail system, it's possible to use Tokyo as a base to explore numerous other great cities in a day or less. Options include taking a Bullet train to experience the attractions of historic Kyoto (passing Mount Fuji along the way), or heading to Nagoya and exploring the city's many fine shrines and temples, along with its famous castle.

image

Japan Vacation Ideas : Another city that would serve equally well as a jumping-off point from which to explore Japan is Hiroshima . Here, you can enjoy the amazing Island Shrine of Itsukushima (you can spend the best part of a day here), as well as the many reminders of the city's part in WWII, including Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and the Peace Memorial Museum. The city of Sapporo on the northernmost island of Hokkaido is also a good place to enjoy the country's rich culture, history, and traditions.

instagram logo

More on Japan

Japan Travel Guide

about tokyo tourism

  • Destinations

Tokyo Travel Guide

From high-end sushi to quick-slurped noodles, Tokyo lives up to its rep as a culinary powerhouse. In areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku, the city delivers the crowds and neon travelers envision. Elsewhere it balances the brash with tranquil gardens and old ways. With its jurisdiction stretching from western mountains to remote southern islands, the capital goes way beyond the expected. Futuristic yet rooted in tradition, ordered yet chaotic, Tokyo has everything you’ve read about and so much more. — Rob Goss

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Your US State Privacy Rights
  • Children's Online Privacy Policy
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • About Nielsen Measurement
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Nat Geo Home
  • Attend a Live Event
  • Book a Trip
  • Inspire Your Kids
  • Shop Nat Geo
  • Visit the D.C. Museum
  • Learn About Our Impact
  • Support Our Mission
  • Advertise With Us
  • Customer Service
  • Renew Subscription
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Work at Nat Geo
  • Sign Up for Our Newsletters
  • Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

Traveling To Tokyo, Japan: What To Know Before You Go

about tokyo tourism

f11photo / Shutterstock

  • Destinations

A cultural wonder in itself, Tokyo is Japan’s capital and is widely known for being the most populous metropolitan city in the entire world, with more than 9 million inhabitants.

Tokyo is one of the 47 prefectures of Japan, forming part of the Kanto region on the southeastern side of Japan’s main island, Honshu. Located in the heart of the nation, Tokyo is idyllically situated roughly 80 miles from Mt. Fuji, one of the most iconic volcanoes in the world and one of the country’s three sacred mountains.

Filled with endless opportunities to taste the best Japanese cuisines and indulge in rich cultural experiences, Tokyo stuns its visitors with its futuristic skyscrapers, chaotic streets, the world’s most sophisticated railways, and vibrant youth fashion.

The following guide will answer all your questions before heading to the extraordinary Japanese capital, including Tokyo’s weather, must-eats, popular neighborhoods, how to get around, and important cultural customs.

An overview of the location of Tokyo.

Google Maps

Weather In Tokyo

Average High/Low Temperatures by Month

January: 50°/35°F February: 50°/36°F March: 56°/41°F April: 66°/50°F May: 73°/59°F June: 78°/66°F July: 85°/73°F August: 88°/75°F September: 81°/69°F October: 71°/59°F November: 62°/49°F December: 54°/40°F

Months with the Most Rainfall

June: 12 days July: 10 days September: 12 days

The Climate in Tokyo

Tokyo has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Japan as a whole has four distinct seasons, with spring landing from March to May, summer from June to August, autumn from September through November, and winter from December to February.

Annual rainfall in Tokyo averages approximately 60 inches, with a wetter summer and a drier winter. Snowfall usually occurs annually in Tokyo, albeit sporadic.

The Best Time to Visit Tokyo

Spring is arguably the best time to visit Tokyo, for Japan’s magnificent cherry blossoms bloom in abundance during this season. In spring, temperatures are mild and ideal for touring the city outdoors and on foot.

If you’re traveling to Tokyo specifically to visit Mt. Fuji, though, the best time to visit would be from July to mid-September, when temperatures are pleasant and the mountain is free of snow. The only downside to visiting Tokyo during summer months is that this is the season when the capital city sees the most rainfall.

If you’re wondering what clothes to pack before traveling to Tokyo, check out this super helpful guide What To Wear While Traveling In Japan? Here’s What To Pack For Every Season!

Meiji Shrine in Tokyo, Japan.

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Best Things To See In Tokyo

1. meiji shrine.

Meiji Shrine is one of the most prevalent shrines in both Tokyo and throughout Japan, celebrating the passing of Emperor Meiji and his companion, Empress Shoken.

The area of Meiji Shrine covers an area of 170 acres enveloped by an evergreen forest containing 120,000 trees of 365 different species, a great way to spend some downtime for rest and relaxation.

2. Senso-ji

One of Tokyo’s most visited places of worship, Senso-ji is a Buddhist temple built for the “Goddess of Mercy,” otherwise known as Bodhisattva Kannon Bosatsu. It is Tokyo’s oldest temple, constructed in the year 628.

When visiting Senso-ji, be sure to visit the nearby shopping street, Nakamise.

3. Rainbow Bridge

A suspension bridge crossing northern Tokyo Bay between Shibaura Pier and the Odaiba waterfront development in Minato, Rainbow Bridge is a popular tourist attraction, particularly breathtaking during the night when the bridge lights up in an array of vibrant colors.

Crossing Rainbow Bridge takes about 30 minutes and is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the summer, and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the winter.

5. Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the nation’s tallest structure, and at the time of its completion, was the second tallest building in the world.

Today, travelers can head to the top of Tokyo Skytree for spectacular panoramic views of the city, a sight one has to see when visiting Tokyo.

People eating at a sushi shop in Tokyo, Japan.

Tupungato / Shutterstock

Best Food To Eat In Tokyo

Japan is known for offering some of the best cuisines in the world, and the following Japanese specialties are undeniably the best foods to eat while visiting Tokyo, along with some suggestions on where to find them.

Sushi is conceivably Japan’s most popular fare, and the nation’s capital is home to some of the best sushi found throughout the country. For those that don’t know, sushi is a Japanese dish made with vinegared rice, usually mixed with seafood and/or vegetables, then wrapped in nori.

Best sushi in Tokyo: Sushi Sugita

If you think ramen is the noodles you ate in college when you were a broke student, think again. Ramen originated in Japan and is a popular dish made with Chinese-style wheat noodles cooked in a meat broth, flavored with soy sauce or miso, and usually topped with pork, menma, soft boiled egg, and green onions.

Best ramen in Tokyo: Ichiran

Another prized Japanese delicacy, tempura normally consists of seafood or vegetables that have been battered and deep fried. Rich and crispy, tempura is a must-try dish when visiting Tokyo.

Best tempura in Tokyo: Tempura Kondo

Tonkatsu consists of a breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet, with the two main types being fillet or loin. Tonkatsu is usually served with shredded cabbage and a slice of lemon.

Best tonkatsu in Tokyo: Kinka Pork Cooking Hirata Farm Kiwami

Known as the Japanese name for buckwheat, soba refers to thin noodles made from buckwheat, regularly served chilled with a dipping sauce, or in hot broth as a noodle soup.

Best soba in Tokyo: Kanda Matsuya

Okonomiyaki

Presumably a lesser known Japanese specialty, okonomiyaki is a savory pancake literally translating to “grilled as you like it” and is usually associated with the Kansai or Hiroshima regions of Japan. Think Japanese crepe, only served over a bed of noodles.

Best okonomiyaki in Tokyo: Suzume-no-Oyado

Quite the opposite of soba, udon is Japanese’s most popular thick wheat flour noodle dish, often served as a hot noodle soup cooked in a mild broth.

Best udon in Tokyo: Kagawa Ippuku Kanda

Inside the Mannen-yu osen in Tokyo.

Best Kept Secret In Tokyo

Mannen-yu onsen.

If you keep reading, you’ll discover that tattoos are considered taboo in Japanese culture, making it hard for tattooed tourists who wish to enter any of the city’s or surrounding areas’ onsens (Japanese hot springs). Unfortunately, if you have a tattoo, you’ll be turned away from these popular baths.

Luckily, Tokyo is home to a hidden onsen that allows tattoos, Mannen-yu onsen. This traditional tattoo-friendly onsen is situated just a five-minute walk from Shin-Okubo Station , and the surrounding area is a hotspot for incredible food (both Japanese and Korean), along with bizarre beauty outlets.

A sumo wrestling match in Tokyo.

J. Henning Buchholz / Shutterstock

Other Things To Do In Tokyo

Catch a sumo wrestling match.

If you’re visiting Tokyo in January, May, or September, you’re in luck.

Sumo wrestling matches in Japan are held six times out of the year, three of which occur at Tokyo’s Ryoguku Kokugikan (Sumo Hall) during the previously mentioned months, with Grand Sumo Tournaments being spread over 15 days.

Sumo wrestling is one of the nation’s most beloved and prized traditions, dating back more than 1,000 years, originating as a right of the Shinto religion .

Click here to see Sumo Hall’s Grand Tournament schedule for 2019 to catch a sumo wrestling match during your trip to Tokyo.

Take a Japanese cooking class

It’s no secret that Japan has some of the most delectable cuisines in the world, thus taking a Japanese cooking class during a trip to Tokyo is a must.

Though there are endless Japanese cooking classes to choose from in Tokyo, Mayuko’s Little Kitchen Japanese Cooking Class is the top-rated cooking class in Tokyo on TripAdvisor, where Mayuko herself offers a home-style approach to simple and delicious Japanese dishes.

During the three-hour class, travelers will learn how to make traditional dishes such as sushi, miso soup, ramen, and gyoza.

The Shinjuku neighborhood of Tokyo.

aon168 / Shutterstock

Best Areas To Stay In Tokyo

1. shinjuku.

Shinjuku is arguably the best neighborhood to stay in when visiting Tokyo, with plenty of accommodations, entertainment, and shopping in this area. This neighborhood vividly depicts the essence of Tokyo: bright neon lights, towering skyscrapers, and crowded streets.

2. Shibuya & Harajuku

A popular hotspot amongst Tokyo’s youth, Shibuya and Harajuku are great places for people watching, filled with wide boulevard streets and buildings constructed by famous architects. This neighborhood is also nearest to Meiji Shrine.

Though Asakusa houses Tokyo Skytree, the city’s tallest building, it has managed to avoid the switch to modernization unlike the rest of the city and is a more laidback and quiet alternative compared to other bustling and hectic neighborhoods.

For more detailed information on many more of Tokyo’s leading neighborhoods, click here .

Map of the Tokyo Metro.

TokyoMetro.jp

How To Get Around In Tokyo

Subways and trains are the best way to get around in Tokyo. Tokyo’s two prominent subway lines are the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subways .

The Tokyo Metro will take visitors to the most popular places in Tokyo, connecting travelers to tourists attractions such as Senso-ji Temple, Tsukiji Market, Tokyo Skytree, and many more.

View the map for Tokyo Metro’s different lines below, and get more information about the stops and fare here . There’s also a helpful downloadable guide for the Tokyo Metro, which you can get here .

Toei Subways is made up of four lines and is incredibly convenient to use, similarly connecting visitors to Tokyo’s most popular spots.

The best way to see all of Tokyo’s main attractions is by buying a Tokyo Combination Ticket , which includes unlimited one-day use of both the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subways. The Tokyo Combination Ticket costs approximately $14.65 USD.

An even better way to see the entire Japanese capital is by purchasing a prepaid smart card, namely Pasmo or Suica .

Pasmo and Suica prepaid smart cards can be used for all subways, buses, and trains in Tokyo, and can even be used at many shops and convenience stores.

Both cards suffice for the same purpose but are purchased in different places. Pasmo smart cards can be bought from vending machines at subway stations in Tokyo, and Suica cards can be purchased by vending machines at Japan railway stations in Tokyo.

Key Phrases To Know In Japanese

It’s always in a traveler’s best interest to learn some useful key phrases in any given country’s native language. It can be very intimidating to speak another language, yes, but locals will appreciate you trying, regardless of how you may sound. You’re guaranteed to feel empowered afterward by stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new.

The first time I traveled alone, I sat down and watched a few YouTube videos on key phrases from the specific country I was traveling to, and, believe it or not, I was actually able to use one or two of them during my trip.

If you’re trying to learn a new language, there is no better way than putting yourself out there and trying to speak in real-life situations. Even if you aren’t trying to learn a new language fluently, visiting a country and at least being able to ask for the bathroom or ask if someone speaks English will truly come in handy!

The following vital Japanese phrases are provided with their phonetic spelling:

Hello: Konnichiwa Good morning: Ohayo Goodbye: Sayonara Please: Onegai shimasu Thank you: Arigato Yes: Hai No: Iie You’re welcome: Do itashimashite Excuse me: Sumimasen How much?: Ikura? Bathroom: Toire Can you help me?: Tetsudatte itadakemasu ka? Do you speak English?: Eigo o hanasemasu ka?

Check out the video above to learn some of the most common and important Japanese phrases.

Edokko on a street in Tokyo.

Thomas La Mela / Shutterstock

Things To Know About Tokyo Culture

Like many Asian countries, bowing is the typical way to greet others, and the way and degree in which you bow matters.

If you’re meeting a friend or a friend-of-a-friend, bowing at a 30-degree angle is normal, while bowing at a 70-degree angle with your head facing downward is customary for greeting people of importance.

In Tokyo and throughout the rest of Japan, we suggest you embrace the bow!

You may notice that, when eating out at restaurants in Tokyo, you’ll be handed a cold or hot towel, depending on the season. These towels are not meant to wipe your food-stained mouth after eating; instead, they’re used to wipe your hands before eating a meal and should then be gently placed aside afterward.

3. Removing of shoes

Removing your shoes before entering public places or peoples’ homes is another common custom throughout several Asian countries, but Japanese culture takes this to the next level.

Museums, hotels, places of worship, and other attractions throughout Tokyo will even have guards or doormen that check the actual nature of your socks after removing your shoes. If they’re abnormally holey, dirty, or just plain ugly, guards and doormen have the right to deny you access into said tourist attraction or accommodation. So, make sure your socks are up to par!

Tipping is considered rude in Tokyo, for locals view this as undermining the authority of the person who set the price . Just. Don’t. Do it.

5. Walking normalities

Presumably because Tokyo is the world’s most populous city , when you’re walking around its busy streets, note that that’s all you should be doing.

Though there aren’t any rules governing the custom, Edokko (Tokyo locals) give the same care to walking as they do driving, and we guarantee you’ll never see any Edokko eating, drinking, talking on the phone, or smoking while they’re walking.

Edokko also walk on the left side of the street in Tokyo, so try to familiarize yourself with this idea before you arrive in the Japanese capital!

Unfortunately for many foreign tourists, tattoos in Tokyo are considerably frowned upon, mainly because they’re associated with organized crime and the Yakuza, Japan’s most notorious gangsters.

Travelers with tattoos will even be turned away when entering onsens, so we suggest covering them up before entering any relaxing Japanese hot spring.

Chidorigafuchi Park in Tokyo, Japan.

Phattana Stock / Shutterstock

More To Read…

If you’re like us here at Travel Awaits and want to learn as much about a destination before you travel there, there are several helpful articles, books, and travel guides that will fully prepare you for your trip to Tokyo.

Helpful Articles About Tokyo Travel

1. For a more extended list of things to do in Tokyo, read 9 Things You Need To Do In Tokyo . 2. If you’re staying in Tokyo for a while and want to venture out on some outstanding day trips, be sure to check out 5 Best Day Trips Outside Of Tokyo, Japan . 3. For travelers heading to other areas of Japan that want to embark on some unforgettable adventures, head to 5 Once-In-A-Lifetime Adventures To Try In Japan . 4 . To learn more about Japan’s culture, click 8 Interesting Things You Didn’t Know About Japan .

Tokyo Travel Guides

Here is a list of some of the best travel guides for Tokyo:

1. 111 Places in Tokyo That You Shouldn’t Miss 2. Frommer’s EasyGuide to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Western Honshu 3. Lonely Planet: Tokyo 4. Lonely Planet: Best of Tokyo 2019 5. Cool Japan: A Guide to Tokyo, Kyoto, Tohoku, and Japanese Culture Past and Present

Tokyo Books

For some excellent fiction and non-fiction reading material, both about Tokyo and by famous Japanese authors, be sure to read:

1. The Book of Tokyo: A City in Short Fiction by Osamu Hashimoto 2. Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami 3. In the Miso Soup by Ryu Murakami 4. The Devil of Nanking by Mo Hayder 5. Tokyo Vice by Jake Adelstein 6. A Tokyo Romance: A Memoir by Ian Buruma

Image of Alexandra Mahoney

Alexandra was first bitten by the travel bug when she studied abroad in Seville, Spain, in 2013. Since then, she graduated from Indiana University with a bachelor of arts in journalism and a double minor in Spanish and music. After graduation, she taught English abroad for four years in Spain and Thailand. Besides being a contributing writer for TravelAwaits, Alexandra has turned her passion for travel into a career as an expedition manager at National Geographic Expeditions, overseeing trips throughout Southeast Asia, Europe, and Africa.

Tokyo Facts

  • Published on : 27/12/2012
  • by : Japan Experience
  • Add to favorites

Tokyo facts: Read a selection of facts about Tokyo, Tokyo geography, demographics, weather, features, and more.

Tokyo Facts 東京基本情報

Tokyo geography.

  • Tokyo climate

Tokyo earthquakes

  • Tokyo history & politics

Tokyo symbols

  • Tokyo government
  • Tokyo Tourist Information Center
  • Tokyo wards
  • Tokyo cities
  • Tokyo towns
  • Tokyo villages
  • Tokyo population & demographics

Tokyo social statistics

Tokyo internationally, tokyo transportation.

  • Tokyo money & economy

Tokyo electricity

Facts about tokyo.

Tokyo facts, Japan.

Tokyo is a vast metropolis, and it would take more than a lifetime to properly get to know it. Here is a collection of basic facts about Tokyo for a 5-minute overview of Japan's capital city.

Unless otherwise stated, all statistics are as of 2015.

Tokyo is the capital city of Japan, and the biggest city in Japan in terms of population and area. Tokyo is located roughly in the middle of the Japanese archipelago facing the Pacific Ocean. Tokyo is on the Kanto plain, bordering Tokyo Bay, 35 degrees 41 minutes north latitude and 139 degrees 46 minutes east longitude.

The Tokyo Megalopolis Region , or Greater Tokyo Area (Shutoen 首都圏), comprises Tokyo and the three adjacent prefectures of Chiba , Saitama , and Kanagawa . The Tokyo region contains about 26% of Japan's total population. Another definition of "Shutoen" is, in English, the National Capital Region and comprises Tokyo and seven surrounding prefectures: Chiba, Saitama, Kanagawa, Gunma, Tochigi, Yamanashi, and Ibaraki.

Two major rivers flow through Tokyo: the Sumida River , running north-to-south into Tokyo Bay, and the Tama River, running west-to-east, and forming the border between Tokyo and Kawasaki. The other major rivers are the Edo, Arakawa, and Kanda rivers.

Tokyo has a total land area of 2187.42 square km (about 845 square miles) and is home to about 10% of the population of Japan. Including the neighboring prefectures of Saitama, Chiba and Kanagawa, the Tokyo conurbation has a total population of over 37 million inhabitants, one of the largest population agglomerations in the world.

Tokyo Sky Tree

Tokyo climate and weather

Tokyo has an average temperature of about 16.5 degrees Celsius (62 degrees F), an average minimum temperature of about 13 degrees Celsius (55 degrees F), and an average maximum temperature of about 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees F). Average humidity is about 60%.

January and February are the coldest months in Tokyo with an average of 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees F) and average humidity of 44%. January is the sunniest month, with an average of 55% sunshine hours.

Summer in Tokyo is sweltering: very hot and humid. July is the hottest month in Tokyo with an average of about 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees F) and average humidity of 74%. Daytime temperatures in summer in Tokyo are typically in the lower 30 degrees Celsius (86 - 95 degrees Fahrenheit). July is also the cloudiest month in Tokyo, with an average of 13% sunshine hours.

Tokyo's total rainfall in 2018 was 1651.5 mm. September and October often form the wettest period, with April not far behind. February is often the driest month.

Tokyo's time zone is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. Tokyo does not have daylight saving.

Tokyo experiences numerous earthquakes . Before the March 11 2011 Tohoku earthquake, 2005 was the year when Tokyo had had the most earthquakes of over 1 on the Richter scale, with 85 earthquakes. The Tohoku earthquake was an upper 5 on the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) scale and the aftershocks over the next two months were innumerable. The yearly average for earthquakes over 1 on the Richter scale in Tokyo is about 50.

Tokyo history and politics

Tokyo is the seat of the Emperor of Japan, the figurehead of Japan's constitutional monarchy, who lives in the Imperial Palace (Kohkyo) in the heart of Tokyo.

Tokyo became a major city, and one of the world's most populous, from the beginning of the 17th century, when the city was called Edo , founded in the 12th century. In 1603, the warrior leader Tokugawa Ieyasu made it the seat of his feudal government. Tokyo became the capital of Japan (at the expense of Kyoto ), and had its name changed from "Edo" to "Tokyo," in 1868 with the modernizing Meiji Restoration .

In 1964, Tokyo hosted the summer Olympic Games and will stage the Olympics again in 2020.

Read more about Tokyo history

Black headed gull symbol of Tokyo.

Tokyo's flower: Somei Yoshino (Yoshino cherry blossom, Prunus × yedoensis)

Tokyo's tree: Gingko (Ichoh in Japanese, Ginkgo biloba)

Tokyo's bird: Black-headed Gull ( Chroicocephalus ridibundus )

Tokyo's official symbol, adopted in June 1989, comprises three green arcs forming the letter T in the shape of a ginkgo leaf. It is a symbol of Tokyo's growth, its prosperity, and tranquility.

Gingko leaf symbol of Tokyo.

Tokyo government and administration

Tokyo's status is on a par with the prefectures that make up Japan, but is known as a metropolis, or to (都), rather than a prefecture, or ken (県).

Tokyo consists of 62 municipalities: 23 wards, 26 cities, 5 towns, and 8 villages, the villages mostly consisting of the Izu Islands and the Ogasawara Islands off the coast of Tokyo, the furthest being 354 km away from the Tokyo Metropolitan government headquarters. The area of Tokyo to the west is known as the Tama Region.

The present governor of Tokyo, elected in 2016 is Yuriko Koike (b.1952), the first woman to hold the office. The Governor is elected by direct citizen vote, and represents the Metropolis of Tokyo for a renewable term of 4 years.

The former Governor of Tokyo was Yoichi Masuzoe (b.1948), a famous politician even before his election to Tokyo governor, a renowned political economist and expert on the problem of Japan's aging society. He was once a Diet member for the Liberal Democratic Party. Masuzoe resigned in June 2016 for misusing public funds.

Tokyo is administered by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, which has its headquarters, known in Japanese as Tocho , in Shinjuku ward, west of Shinjuku Station . It is governed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly (Tokyo-to gikai 東京都議会) made up of 127 members directly elected by Tokyo citizens to serve a term of four years.

As of April 1, 2015, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government employed a total of 167,914 persons.

In fiscal year 2015, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government's budget made up approximately 6.9% of the total budget of all the local bodies in Japan.

Tokyo Tourist Information Center locations

Main Office at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building 2-8-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku (1st floor of TMG building No.1) Open year-round: 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (except the year-end and New Year holiday period) Tel: 03-5321-3077

Haneda Airport Office (Terminal 1) 3-3-2 Haneda Kuko, Ota-ku Open year-round: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Tel: 03-5757-9345

Keisei Ueno Office 1-60 Ueno Koen, Taito-ku (in front of the ticket gate of Keisei Ueno Station) Open year round: 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tel: 03-3836-3471

Tokyo Tourist Information Websites

JapanVisitor's Tokyo Area Guide www.tourism.metro.tokyo.jp/english (English Top Page) www.tourism.metro.tokyo.jp (Language Selection Page) Choose from Japanese, English, Chinese (simplified and traditional), Korean, German, Spanish, Italian, and French) www.kanko.metro.tokyo.jp/ (Japanese Top Page)

The 23 wards of Tokyo

The 23 wards of Tokyo are: Adachi-ku (足立区), Arakawa-ku (荒川区), Bunkyo-ku (文京区), Chiyoda-ku (千代田区), Chuo-ku (中央区), Edogawa-ku (江戸川区), Itabashi-ku (板橋区), Katsushika-ku (葛飾区), Kita-ku (北区), Koto-ku (江東区), Meguro-ku (目黒区), Minato-ku (港区), Nakano-ku (中野区), Nerima-ku (練馬区), Ota-ku (大田区), Setagaya-ku (世田谷区), Shibuya-ku (渋谷区), Shinagawa-ku (品川区), Shinjuku-ku (新宿区), Suginami-ku (杉並区), Sumida-ku (墨田区), Taito-ku (台東区), Toshima-ku (豊島区)

Complete list of place names and postcodes

The 23 wards at the center of Tokyo make up about 28% of the area of the metropolis (i.e. 621.81 km2 of 2187.42 km2), and are home to about three-quarters of its population, i.e. about 8.65 million residents, with an average population density of 13,913 people per km2.

Tokyo's working population in 2017 numbered approximately 7.9 million, about 3.44 million of whom were women. Tokyo's unemployment rate in 2017 was 2.9%.

Tokyo's largest ward in terms of area is Ota ward with 59.46 square km. Tokyo's smallest ward in terms of area is Taito ward with 10.08 square km.

The Tokyo ward with the most inhabitants is Setagawa ward, with 850,576 people. The Tokyo ward with the fewest inhabitants is the largely business- and administrative-related Chiyoda ward, with 43,124 people.

The 26 cities of Tokyo

The 26 cities of Tokyo are: Akiruno-shi, Akishima-shi, Chofu-shi, Fuchu-shi, Fussa-shi, Hachioji-shi, Hamura-shi, Higashikurume-shi, Higashimurayama-shi, Higashiyamato-shi, Hino-shi, Inagi-shi, Kiyose-shi, Kodaira-shi, Koganei-shi, Kokubunji-shi, Komae-shi, Kunitachi-shi, Machida-shi, Mitaka-shi, Musashimurayama-shi, Musashino-shi, Nishitokyo-shi, Ome-shi, Tachikawa-shi, Tama-shi

Tokyo's largest city is Hachioji city with 186.31 square km. Tokyo's smallest city is Komae city with only 6.39 square km.

Tokyo's most populous city is Hachioji city with 563,077 people. Tokyo's least populous city is Hamura city, with 56,808 people.

The 5 towns of Tokyo

The 5 towns of Tokyo are: Hinode-machi, Mizuho-machi, Okutama-machi, Hachijo-machi, Ohshima-machi

The 8 villages of Tokyo

The 8 villages of Tokyo are: Aogashima-mura, Hinohara-mura, Kouzushima-mura, Mikurajima-mura, Miyake-mura, Niijima-mura, Ogasawara-mura, Toshima-mura

The largest island in Tokyo is Oshima-shicho with 141.82 square km. It also has the largest island population, at 14,166. The Tokyo island with the smallest population is Aogashima with only 212 people (and only 77 of them women!)

Tokyo population and demographics

The population of Tokyo is about 13.8 million (2019), with an average population density of 6,316 people per square km. After a decade of slight year-on-year decline, Tokyo's population has been expanding since 1996. The rate of annual population increase since the year 2000 has been just under 1%, i.e., an annual increase of about 100,000 people. Tokyo's population in 1907, one hundred years before, was 2,585,300. The biggest fluctuation in Tokyo's population happened in 1945, the last year of the Pacific War, when it dropped by 3,782,717 people, or minus 52%.

Tokyo's daytime population is about 14.978 million people, and its nighttime population about 12.416 million, a difference of 2.562 million people. The most extreme example is the three wards of Minato, Chiyoda, and Chuo with a daytime population of 2.41 million and a nighttime population of 326,000.

Tokyo's largest foreign community is Chinese, with 126,498 people, followed by Korean with 109,824 people, then Filipino with 31,365, and USA Americans with 18,409. Shinjuku ward has the largest foreign population, with 30,337, almost half of them Korean and about a third of them Chinese.

The number of marriages in Tokyo per 1000 people is in general decline, with 12.8 in 1966, 8.8 in 1976, 6.8 in 1986, 7.3 in 1996, and 7.2 in 2006.

The number of divorces in Tokyo per 1000 people is generally increasing, with 0.93 in 1966, 1.3 in 1976, 1.55 in 1986, 1.92 in 1996, and 2.12 in 2006.

The average lifespan of Tokyoites in 2005 was 79.02 years for males, and 85.53 for females.

Tokyo has over 100 universities and colleges, hundreds of museums and over 200 parks and gardens .

Tokyo's most notorious nightlife district is Kabukicho in Shinjuku ward. Roppongi ward is known for its more glamorous nightlife and large numbers of foreigners. Shinjuku Ni-chome in Shinjuku ward is known for its gay quarter.

Tokyo has twelve sister cities/states: New York City (since February 29, 1960), Beijing (since March 14, 1979), Paris (since July 14, 1982), New South Wales (since May 9, 1984), Seoul (since September 3, 1988), Jakarta (since October 23, 1989), Sao Paulo State (since June 13, 1990), Cairo (since October 23, 1990), Moscow (since July 16, 1991), Berlin (since May 14, 1994), Rome (since July 5, 1996), and London (since October 14, 2015).

Tokyo is linked to the rest of Japan by road, rail, and air.

Tokyo's major airports are Haneda Airport in Ota ward, and Narita International Airport in neighboring Chiba prefecture, 60 km from downtown Tokyo.

The high speed railway shinkansen (bullet train) network is an alternative to flying that generally takes no longer than by air. Tokyo is served by numerous train, subway and bus lines. The most efficient way to move around the 23 wards is by the JR East train lines and the subway lines.

The main Japan Rail East lines in Tokyo are:

  • the Yamanote Line (green trains), a loop line that is the best known of all Tokyo lines
  • the Chuo Rapid line (orange trains), also very well known, running east-west through the Yamanote line, linking Tokyo and Shinjuku stations and extending west
  • the Chuo-Sobu line (yellow trains), running parallel to most of the Chuo Rapid line and stopping at more stations
  • the Keihin Tohoku Line (silver trains with a light blue stripe), running parallel to the eastern half of the Yamanote line, and extending down to Yokohama and beyond
  • the Saikyo-Rinkai Line (silver trains with a dark green stripe), technically two lines that converge at Osaki station, the Saikyo line running parallel to the western half of the Yamanote line and the Rinkai line continuing to the east of Tokyo south of, then east of, the Yamanote Line.
  • the Nambu Line connects Tachikawa Station in Tachikawa with Kawasaki Station in Kawasaki , Kanagawa Prefecture .
  • the Nippori-Toneri Liner , an automated train system serving the north-eastern part of greater Tokyo.

Tokyo has two subway companies, the Toei Subway with 4 lines with a total of 107 km (66.5 miles), and the Tokyo Metro with 9 lines with a total length of 195.4 km (121.4 miles), a grand total Tokyo subway length of 302.4 km (187.9 miles). They serve mainly the area inside the Yamanote line.

Toei lines are the Asakusa line (pink), the Mita line (navy blue), the Shinjuku line (bright green), the Oedo line (purple).

Tokyo Metro lines are the Ginza line (bright orange), the Marunouchi line (red), the Hibiya line (gray), the Tozai line (bright blue), the Chiyoda line (dark green), the Yurakucho line (yellow), the Hanzomon line (purple), the Namboku line (teal), the Fukutoshin line (dark orange).

Private railway companies in Tokyo are:

  • Tokyu Railways: serving south-western Tokyo and Kanagawa prefecture
  • Tobu Railways: linking Tokyo with Saitama and Tochigi prefectures, including Nikko
  • Seibu Railways: linking Tokyo to the Tama Region (i.e. west of Tokyo) and Saitama prefecture
  • Keio Railways: linking Tokyo's central and Tama (western) regions
  • Odakyu Railways: linking Tokyo to Kanagawa prefecture, including Hakone
  • Keisei Railways: linking Tokyo to Chiba prefecture, including Narita International Airport
  • Keikyu Railways: linking Tokyo to Kanagawa prefecture, as well as going to Haneda Airport
  • Tsukuba Express: linking Akihabara with Tsukuba City in Ibaraki prefecture.

Tokyo has six monorail systems, 3 in Tokyo proper: Yurikamome Waterfront Line, Tokyo Waterfront Area Rapid Transit (AKA Rinkai Line), and the Tokyo Monorail; and 3 in Greater Tokyo: Chiba Monorail, Tama Intercity Monorail, Shonan Monorail.

Tokyo is also served by an extensive bus network , and numerous taxi companies.

In 2005, the average speed of cars in travelling in the Tokyo 23-ward area during peak hours was 18.8 km/h (11.5 mph).

Tokyo money and economy

The currency of Tokyo is the Japanese yen. Tokyo, like the rest of the Japan, is mainly a cash environment, and credit cards are not accepted quite as widely as they are in other developed countries.

For the 14 years between 1992 and 2006 Tokyo was rated at the city with the highest cost of living in the world.

Tokyo's gross domestic product is the largest of any city in the world. It was 85.2 trillion (85,200,000,000,000) yen in 2010, down from a 2007 peak of 94 trillion yen.

Tokyo electricity: 100 volts AC, 50Hz (as is the whole of eastern Japan, and 60Hz in western Japan). Plugs are flat two-pin. More about electricity in Japan .

Books on Tokyo Japan

Latest articles.

about tokyo tourism

Where to admire the cherry blossoms in spring

Japan is renowned for its distinct and beautiful seasons. One of the most eagerly awaited is undoubtedly spring, with the blossoming of the sakura cherry trees.

Vue sur la rivière traversant Yakushima

Excursion to Yakushima: At the heart of Princess Mononoke Island

Many visitors to Japan share the same desire when visiting the country: to " get off the beaten track ". 

ryokan onsen

Onsen: a short guide to proper etiquette

Onsen (hot springs) and sento (public baths) are great places to relax. They are distinct communal areas with very precise rules of good conduct and etiquette.

All the themes of the city

Thème - Gastronomie Japonaise

Japanese Food and Drink

Thème - Littérature japonaise

Books on Japan

Thème - Films et dessins animés japonais

Japanese Movies

Thème_Apprendre le Japonais

Japanese Language

Thème - Histoire du Japon

Japanese History

about tokyo tourism

Understanding Japan

Thème - Avant de partir

Before you Travel

Please select your country on the list below:

  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom
  • Other countries

Hey Explorer

25 Things Tokyo is Known and Famous For

Tokyo, or officially Tokyo Metropolis, is the capital of Japan and one of the most popular destinations in the world — you’ve either visited it or are longing to visit it.

And why not? There’s so much to love in this city.

Night view of Tokyo

Tokyo is known for iconic landmarks like the Tokyo Skytree and Shibuya Crossing. It’s famous for its sakura tree-lined streets, shrines and temples, its otaku culture and wonderful cuisine, and its world-class transport system. It’s a quirky city that combines millennia-old traditions with futuristic technology.

But those are just some of the things Tokyo is known for. This list will reveal so much more, you’ll want to book a flight by the end of it!

Table of Contents

Tokyo is known for its vibrant neighborhoods and landmarks

1. tokyo skytree.

Tokyo Skytree

Towering at 2,080 feet, it’s hard to miss the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan and the tallest tower in the world. Completed in 2012, this imposing communications and observation tower is the primary TV and radio broadcast site for the Kanto region.

Thanks to its two cylindrical observatories, the Skytree offers one of the best panoramic views of the city. One observatory even has a glass-covered skywalk that gives visitors a direct view of the streets below!

2. Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing

Tokyo is known for Shibuya Crossing, a popular scramble intersection just outside Shibuya Station. With as many as 3,000 people crossing every time the signal changes, this is the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing.

Why so busy, you ask? Well, for one, the area is home to eclectic shopping outlets, restaurants, cafés, as well as offices. But the main reason for its foot traffic is its proximity to one of Tokyo’s busiest rail stations, Shibuya Station, which handles over 2 million passengers per day.

Oh, and the famous Hachiko statue is also located between the station and the intersection. This spot is a favorite meeting place and is almost always crowded with locals and tourists.

3. Imperial Palace

Japan Imperial Palace

Did you know that Japan is the only country in the world that still has an emperor? The Imperial Family of Japan is the oldest in the world and they reside in Tokyo.

For a piece of ancient history, a visit to the Tokyo Imperial Palace ( Kokyo) is a must. It contains the living quarters of the Emperor and the main palace where ceremonies and receptions take place. Some residences of the Imperial Family are also here, as well as museums and administrative offices.

The Imperial Palace stands on the site of the old Edo Castle, which became the official residence of the Emperor in 1868. Fires, earthquakes, and World War II destroyed most of the structures. It was only in the late 1960s that the reconstruction of the present-day Imperial Palace was completed.

4. Ueno Park

Pond in Ueno Park

Tokyo is known for being an uber-modern city but it also has several pockets of nature for those who just want to pause and escape the hustle and bustle.

There are many parks in the city but none as popular as Ueno Park. Visited by over 10 million people a year, it is Japan’s most popular park.

Tokyo’s green oasis is one of the country’s first public parks. Aside from the sprawling grounds, it features museums, a zoo, historical monuments, and temples. But perhaps, it is most known as a site for hanami or cherry blossom viewing.

5. Harajuku

Teenagers dressed up in their favourite anime costumes on the weekends around Harajuku station in Tokyo,Japan.

Best known for Japanese youth culture, extreme fashion, and cosplay, Shibuya’s Harajuku district is a jumble of independent boutiques, high-end luxury shops, cafés, museums, and department stores dedicated to costumes.

Tokyo is known for kawaii culture and it is most visible in Harajuku. At any given time, you’d see gothic Lolitas, women decked out in Decora Kei , and real-life anime characters. ‘Cute’ photo spots are also scattered everywhere.

Ginza shopping district

Tokyo is known for its shopping districts, with the most popular being Ginza. The site of a silver coin mint back in the Edo period, Ginza is an upscale shopping district and is one of the most expensive and most luxurious city districts in the world.

Homegrown designers, exclusive shops, palatial stores, and flagship stores of international stores find their homes in Ginza. It is one of the busiest shopping areas in Japan every day of the week. Come weekends, it becomes a large pedestrian zone when the central Chuo Dori street is closed to vehicles.

7. Cutting-edge museums

National Museum of Nature and Science offers a wide variety of natural history exhibitions and interactive scientific experiences

Tokyo is famous for its rich heritage, culture, and arts. Not surprisingly, you’ll find several museums in the city. I’m not talking about old and dusty museums though.

Tokyo’s museums, even the ones that showcase artifacts and ancient national treasures, are housed in modern, expertly-designed facilities. Here are some of the best:

  • Tokyo National Museum – The oldest national museum and largest art museum in Japan. Houses the world’s most complete collection of Japanese art.
  • Yayoi Kusama Museum – an avant-garde space dedicated to contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama
  • National Museum of Nature and Science – houses a vast collection of some 250,000 materials related to anthropological history, biodiversity, technology, and science.
  • Edo-Tokyo Museum – showcases a recreation of Tokyo’s rich past, present, and future
  • Ghibli Museum – a small but meaningful museum dedicated to Studio Ghibli, Japan’s most beloved animation studio

8. Themed cafés and restaurants

Maid Cafe in Japan

The funky city of Tokyo is known for themed cafés and restaurants, even though the trend didn’t actually originate in Japan.

Among the popular themed cafés are “maid cafés” where waitresses dress up in cute maid outfits and act as servants to customers a.k.a. “masters” and “princesses”.

“Cat cafés” are also common. As you’ve probably guessed, these are coffee shops or restaurants where you can eat, drink, and play with furry felines.   

Nihonbashi’s Dawn Avatar Robot Café is also worth checking out. It features humanoid robots waiting on customers and serving food and drinks.

If you worry that robots are out to replace humans, fret not. These robots are actually operated remotely by people who can’t leave the house for long periods due to physical disabilities, childcare, or other reasons.

9. Shrines and temples

Senso-ji Temple

Shintoism and Buddhism are important parts of Japan’s history. So, it’s no wonder that Tokyo is known for Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples as much as other cities in the country.

There are thousands of shrines and temples in the capital but the most popular are Meiji Shrine and Senso-ji Temple.

Meiji Shrine was constructed in 1912 to honor the souls of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. A forest of over 100,000 trees surrounds the shrine, making it a breathtaking sight.

Senso-ji Temple, on the other hand, is Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple and one of the most visited spiritual sites in the world. Founded in 628, Senso-ji features a big, bold red gate, imposing temple buildings, and a five-story pagoda.

10. Kabuki-za Theater

Kabuki-za theater in Ginza. Kabuki-za in Ginza is the principal theater in Tokyo for the traditional kabuki drama form

A city of contrasts, Tokyo is known for combining tradition with modernity. The city is home to beautiful theaters, many of which feature traditional performances.

One of the most well-known theaters is Kabuki-za Theater in Ginza. This magnificent structure is the only theater in the world that’s dedicated to kabuki , a classical form of Japanese performing art. The all-male theater form includes singing, dancing, acting, and elaborate make-up and costumes.

Watching a kabuki performance is like stepping into another strange and fascinating facet of Japanese culture. The performances can last for hours and people are free to stay for however long they want or leave whenever they wish.

Don’t be startled if you hear shouts and cheers from the audience — this is a way of encouraging actors and also liven up the crowd.

11. Akihabara Electric Town

Akihabara Electric Town

Tokyo is known for being the epicenter of anime, manga, and electronics. In the Chiyoda ward of Tokyo, you’ll find Akihabara, nicknamed Akihabara Electric Town for being a major shopping center for electronic goods.

Akihabara hosts a wealth of shops selling video games, manga, anime-related goods, computers, and other electronic gadgets. The district is also dotted with internet cafés, maid cafés, and lots of dining options.

12. Cherry blossoms

Cherry blossoms at Ueno Park

This one’s technically not a landmark but Japan’s national flower attracts as many visitors (or maybe even more) as its other tourist attractions do.

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit in spring. In late March or early April, sakura blossoms transform the city into a pink oasis. Locals and tourists alike enjoy hanami , the practice of viewing flowers. People often bring mats and enjoy picnics at city parks.

In Tokyo, the best spots for hanami include Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyeon, Yoyogi Park, Meguro River, and Sumida Park.

Tokyo is known for breaking world records

13. most populous metropolis in the world.

Crowds in Tokyo

With more than 38 million residents in the Greater Tokyo Area, Tokyo is famous for being the largest metropolitan on the globe.

There are over 6,000 people per square kilometer of Tokyo. The city’s population is so dense that about 30% of the total Japanese population resides here! And despite Japan experiencing population decline , it is expected that Tokyo will remain crowded in the years to come.

14. Largest fish market in the world

 Toyosu Market: Fish wholesale market in Toyosu Market

Tokyo is known for being home to the largest fish and seafood market in the world. Opened in 1935, the Tsukiji Market was also one of the largest wholesale supermarkets of any kind.

However, in October 2018, Tsukuji was closed and operations moved to Toyosu Market, also in Tokyo. Toyosu, almost twice the size of Tsukiji and with more modern facilities, now holds the record for being the world’s largest fish market.

Besides indulging in fresh seafood at restaurants within the market, visitors also have the chance to observe the market auction.

15. World’s busiest train station

Crossing the streets at Shinjuku station in Tokyo

Tokyo is known for the world’s busiest railway station , Shinjuku Station. It’s easy to be taken aback by the number of people rushing about here — an average of 3.6 million people use the station every day!

Shinjuku is served by five railway systems, namely JR East, Keio Corporation, Odakyo Electric Railway, Toei Subway, and Tokyo Metro. The station connects central Tokyo and its western suburbs.

Tokyo is known for its world-famous cuisine

16. michelin-starred restaurants.

Michelin guide plate

Foodies will hardly go hungry in Tokyo.

Home to over 60,000 restaurants, it is no surprise that Tokyo is also one of the cities that have gained the highly coveted Michelin stars . But did you know that Tokyo actually holds the record for having the most Michelin-starred restaurants?

Japan ranks highest in the list of countries with the most number of Michelin-starred restaurants, thanks to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Tokyo reigns supreme though, with over 200 total stars. By comparison, its closest rival, Paris, has over 100 stars.

17. The birthplace of nigiri-zushi

nigiri-zushi

If you love sushi as much as I do, you’ll love Tokyo. Not only is the city home to restaurants serving this unforgettable dish, but it’s also the birthplace of the most popular sushi type, nigiri-zushi.

Nigiri or hand-pressed sushi is Japan’s traditional sushi. Sliced fish (raw, slightly cooked, or marinated in salt, soy sauce, or vinegar) is placed directly on top of vinegared rice. Then, it’s hand-molded and squeezed together.

This style of sushi, invented by Hanaya Yohei, originated from what was called Edomae-zushi. Edomae, which means ‘in front of Edo’, referred to fish caught in front of the Edo Castle or in Tokyo Bay.

18. Soba and other local delights

Soba noodles

When Japanese cuisine is mentioned, most of us think of sushi and ramen . But did you know that in ancient Tokyo, ramen wasn’t the popular noodle?

Soba is, in fact, the popular “fast food” and Tokyo’s local specialty back in the mid-Edo period. Two parts flour and eight parts buckwheat, soba was an Edo staple and was sold by traveling noodle vendors. To this day, it’s still very much a part of Tokyo’s food culture .

Other local dishes in Tokyo include monjayaki (similar to okonomiyaki but with different liquid ingredients), shoyu ramen, tempura, unagi (grilled freshwater eel) , and yakitori (chicken skewers).

19. Vending machines

Vending machines in Tokyo

Japan boasts over 4.2 million vending machines, the majority of which are selling every beverage under the sun and many dispensing snacks . It’s the same in Tokyo, where there’s a vending machine roughly every 12 meters.

If you ever find yourself hungry in Tokyo, you’re spoiled for options. From restaurants on every block to konbini (convenience stores) and the ubiquitous vending machines — the city has it all. There are even vending machines selling frozen goods!

Other things Tokyo is known for

20. transport system.

shinkansen bullet train in Tokyo

Japan’s transportation system is second to none and the capital is no exception. Despite the sprawling metropolis that it is, people get around quickly and easily, thanks to trains, subways, buses, and taxis.

Greater Tokyo has the world’s most extensive urban rail network, with over 100 lines, 40+ operators, and over 2,000 stations. It can be confusing for first-time visitors, with train maps looking like computer chip circuit boards. But these railway and subway trains are known to be efficient, punctual, and clean.

A network of buses, trams, as well as taxis also criss-cross the city to take you to places the trains can’t reach.

21. Walkable city

Pedestrian lane in Tokyo

Despite its world-class transportation system, Tokyo is known for being an extremely pedestrian-friendly city. Its roads are built for pedestrians first, vehicles second.

Walking is a great way to discover more of Tokyo. Fortunately, the city (and most of Japan) has well-designed roads and rules in place to make walking an enjoyable activity. There are also Tenji blocks for the blind.

Tokyo also opens pedestrian-friendly streets known as 歩行者天国 ( hokousha tengoku ) or “pedestrian paradise”. These are once-a-week occurrences where streets and areas like Akihabara, Ginza, and Shinjuku are closed to cars and even bicycles.

22. 2020 Summer Olympics

22. 2020 Summer Olympics in Odaiba

For better or for worse, Tokyo will always be known as the host of the 2020 Summer Olympics. Or should we say 2021?

Tokyo 2020, which retained its name for marketing purposes, was held from July 23 to August 8, 2021, and it prompted a lot of firsts. Because of the global pandemic, it was postponed to 2021. This was the first time in Olympic history that a game was rescheduled, not canceled.

Thus, it was the first Olympic Games to be held in an odd-numbered year and the first time the games were largely held behind closed doors. Public spectators were not permitted due to the high number of cases.

This was also the first time that an Asian city held the Summer Games twice, with the first one being the 1964 Summer Olympics.

23. Vibrant nightlife

Woman singing in Tokyo

Tokyo is a city that remains alive at night. However, nightlife here doesn’t just mean hitting the clubs.

There are plenty of options for night owls in Tokyo. From nightclubs to karaoke to spotcha centers (indoor sports arcades) to luxe sento (communal bathhouses), Tokyo’s nightlife has lots to offer. The districts of Roppongi, Shibuya, and Shinjuku are the liveliest at night.

24. Introvert-friendly city

shinjuku capsule hotel

Despite having a large population, Tokyo is known for being one of the most introvert-friendly cities in the world.

The Japanese generally don’t strike up conversations with strangers. Yes, they’re polite and willing to help you, but unless you approach first, they’ll leave you alone.

Do you enjoy eating in silence ? So do the Japanese. There are plenty of restaurants in Japan that offer counter seating, so you can eat solo while watching the chef prepare your meal. You’ll also find ramen restaurants in Tokyo such as Ichiran that cater to solo diners.

Oh, and let’s not forget the capsule hotels ! This futuristic-looking type of accommodation is perfect for travelers looking for absolute privacy.

25. One of the safest cities in the world

Japanese children going to school

Tokyo is famous for being one of the safest cities in the world , and Japan is one of the safest countries.

The high respect for other people and their belongings means if you leave your wallet or bag on a park bench or the subway, you’ll likely get it back fully intact. There is also a low crime rate, with more inconveniences happening (e.g., bike theft, umbrella theft) rather than real dangers.

Tokyo, and Japan as a whole, is so safe that young kids go to school unaccompanied. Just watch an episode of Old Enough on Netflix and you’ll see how Japan’s policies and infrastructure design make it a great place to develop a culture of independence at an early age.

imperial palace in Japan

And that’s a wrap! This list of things Tokyo is known for barely scratches the surface though. There are lots of other fascinating things waiting to be experienced in this beautiful city.

Need more convincing? You can check out these reasons why Japan is worth visiting and what the rest of Japan is known for . またね! That’s Japanese for see you later!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Photo of author

© 2024 Hey Explorer

Stock images by Depositphotos

Guía turística de Tokyo

Tokyo is the most populated city on the planet , a mega-city with more than 38 million people living in the Tokyo metropolitan area.

Tokyo Travel Guide

  • General Information
  • Top attractions
  • Getting to Tokyo
  • Restaurants
  • Accommodation

The size of Tokyo is perhaps one of the main draws to the city but, especially when combined with complicated transport plans , you're sure to have a doubt or two when planning your trip. To help you in that quest, we've made this Tokyo Travel Guide .

Why Visit Tokyo

For its surprising culture , its lively nightlife , its exotic and world-famous cuisine , to feel the hustle and bustle of 38 million people, or to go shopping in one of the world's  shopping capitals. There are as many reasons to visit Tokyo as there are visitors.

Japan is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, welcoming nearly 30 million overseas visitors each year.

Need Accommodation?

Fair warning, a trip to Tokyo is not especially cheap. But remember, the earlier you reserve your hotel, the better discounts you'll find. Try our hotel search engine, where you can find discounts of up to 75% on accommodation .

Hotels in Tokyo - Reserve online with a guaranteed best price.

Ans as well as getting the best possible price, you pay nothing until you arrive at your hotel in Tokyo.

top activities

Mount Fuji & Hakone Day Trip See the iconic Mount Fuji from different perspectives : visit Fifth Station, ride the Hakone Ropeway and cruise on Lake Ashi on this day trip from Tokyo.

Tokyo Guided Tour Asakusa, Shibuya, Akihabara and other neighbourhoods of the capital are waiting for you on this complete guided tour of Tokyo , which even includes a cruise !

Private Tour of Tokyo See the most important temples, most traditional neighbourhood and the modern face of Tokyo , the perfect introduction to the biggest megalopolis on the planet .

On this day trip to Nikko from Tokyo , we'll explore the temples of this World Heritage Site . We'll see shrines among mountains and breathtaking waterfalls.

Sanrio Puroland Ticket Experience one of Japan's liveliest theme parks. Hang out with Hello Kitty, My Melody, and Kiki and Lala . Meet all your favourite Sanrio characters!

Tokyo Skytree Observation Deck With your  ticket to Tokyo Skytree Observation Deck ,   you'll enjoy the  best views of  the Japanese capital  with  360º views from 350 metres up .

Spend a full day enjoying Mount Fuji, one of the most beautiful sights in Japanese nature.  Admire spectacular landscapes and even go fruit picking !

Tokyo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Explore Tokyo's most iconic sights in comfort on our Hop On Hop Off tour bus . Get on and off at whichever stop you like and discover the city at your own pace.

Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi + Chureito Pagoda Day Trip See the iconic Mt. Fuji from the riverbanks of Lake Kawaguchi on this day trip from Tokyo ! We'll also visit the Chureito Pagoda making it a day full of wonder.

Harajuku Kawaii Culture Tour Immerse yourself in  Japanese   Kawaii culture , characterised by its iconic cute and innocent aesthetic and vividly bright colours .

Madame Tussauds Tokyo Ticket Fancy taking a selfie with Beckham, Angelina Jolie or Michael Jackson? Explore Madame Tussauds Tokyo to see the  wax figures of more than 60 celebrities!

Tokyo Go Kart Tour Ready for a geeky adventure in the heart of Japan's capital ? Our Tokyo go-kart tour is perfect for you—you'll feel like you stepped into a video game!

Tsukiji Fish Market Tour Visit the world's largest fish market on this tour of the Tsukiji district in Tokyo where you'll get to taste fresh fish and even enjoy a traditional meal.

Kamakura Tour Do you want to explore the surroundings of Tokyo? On this tour to Kamakura we'll explore this city that was the political centre of medieval Japan .

Nikko All Area Pass Discover the Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen with the Nikko All Area Pass . This pass offers unlimited transport to the main sights .

Private Day Trip to Kawagoe Ever wanted to experience the  Edo period in Japan ? Join us on this day trip to Kawagoe to explore "little Edo" , a town that has preserved its historic charm.

Nikkō World Heritage Area Pass Enjoy these World Heritage Site  art displays by reserving the Nikkō World Heritage Area Pass  card, a tourist card that offers you unlimited transport .

Tokyo Pub Crawl Do you want to experience nightlife in the capital of Japan? Enjoy this pub crawl in Tokyo where you'll visit some of the city's most popular bars.

Artisan Shopping Tour Do you want to discover all the secrets of Japanese culture? On this tour, we reveal all the intricate details of the craftsmanship of Tokyo .

Asakusa Guided Tour Immerse yourself in Tokyo's ancient history with this guided tour of the fascinating Asakusa district , an area full of ancestral temples and Japanese tradition.

Tokyo Skyliner The Tokyo Skyliner is a modern train that connects Narita International Airport to the Japanese capital. It’s only a 41-minute journey !

Tokyo Metro Pass Want to discover Tokyo like a local? There is no better way to move around and avoid the traffic of the Japanese capital than taking the subway.

Japan 15-day Tour During this unforgettable 15-day journey through Japan , we'll explore the cities of Tokyo and Kyoto, and also ascend the iconic Mount Fuji.

9-day Tour of Japan From Tokyo to Hiroshima, we'll discover the essence of the 'Land of the Rising Sun' on this 9-day tour of Japan – this will be a trip you'll never forget.

Sumo Fighting Experience Don't miss this chance for a first-hand experience of Japan's national sport. You'll  participate in a  sumo wrestlers performance   and enjoy a tasty lunch!

Your guide to Tokyo

This Tokyo guide by Civitatis has been created by travelers like you to help you to plan your trip, save money and make the most of your time there.

the information and data in this guide were updated in February 2024 . If you see any errors or anything that should be changed, please contact us . 

Download the Civitatis app from the App Store

Our travel guides

  • top attractions
  • Where to stay
  • and much more

about tokyo tourism

  • South Africa
  • Afghanistan
  • North Korea
  • Adventure + Outdoors
  • Amusement Parks
  • Backpacking Trips
  • Boating + Cruises
  • Budget Travel
  • Bus + Train Travel
  • Coasts + Islands
  • Country Trips
  • Fall Vacations
  • Family Vacations
  • Green Travel
  • Heritage + History
  • Honeymoons + Romance
  • Inspiration + Guide
  • Landmarks + Attractions
  • LGBT Travel
  • Markets + Bazaars
  • National Parks + Reserves
  • Nature + Wildlife
  • Parks + Gardens
  • Pets + Animals
  • Photography
  • Airlines + Airports
  • Budgeting + Currency
  • Business Travel
  • Celebrity Travel
  • Customs + Immigration
  • Deals + Rewards
  • Family Travel
  • Hotels + Resorts
  • Luggage + Packing Tips
  • Offbeat News
  • Photography Tips
  • Responsible Travel
  • Solo Travel
  • Tech + Gear
  • Travel Etiquette
  • Travel Warnings
  • Bars + Clubs
  • Celebrity Chefs
  • Restaurants + Cafés
  • Wine + Vineyards
  • Beach Hotels
  • Boutique Hotels
  • Hotel Openings
  • Hotel Reviews
  • Luxury Hotels
  • Mountain + Ski Resorts
  • Spa Resorts
  • Vacation Rentals
  • Asia Cruises
  • European Cruises
  • Festivals + Events
  • Museums + Galleries
  • Style + Design
  • Travel’s Best
  • Hotel with Agoda.com
  • Hotel with Booking.com

Get the best travel guides, tips, information & reviews!

Tokyo best parks — 10+ best & most beautiful parks in…

about tokyo tourism

Yamanashi blog — The Yamanashi travel guide & top things to…

about tokyo tourism

Guide to Suzhou nightlife — 5+ what & best things to…

about tokyo tourism

Kunming travel blog — The fullest Kunming travel guide for first-timers

about tokyo tourism

Cambodia travel tips — 15+ what to know & things to…

about tokyo tourism

When is the best time to visit Kyoto? — The best,…

about tokyo tourism

When is the best time to visit Malaysia? — The best,…

about tokyo tourism

When is the best time to visit Busan? — The best,…

about tokyo tourism

Must eat in Cambodia — 15+ must try, most famous, popular…

Cafe Pomegranate Ubud

Best coffee shops in Bali — Top 10 best cafes in…

about tokyo tourism

Where to eat in Shenzhen? — 9 best restaurants in Shenzhen

about tokyo tourism

Must eat in Malaysia — 15+ most popular, famous dishes &…

belmond-la-residence-d-angkor-siem-reap-cambodia-prod

Top hotels in Siem Reap — 8+ best places to stay…

about tokyo tourism

Top hotels in shanghai — 15+ best hotels in Shanghai

about tokyo tourism

Top hotels in Malacca — 10+ good & best hotels in…

Amankila, Bali, Indonesia. © Amanresorts

Top places to stay in Bali — Top 10 best areas…

things to know, European river cruise

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Syrena Cruises, luxury cruises, halong bay, vietnam

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival, Seoul

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

totoro ghibli museum

  • Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Gion Matsuri Festival in Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

national palace museum shilin district taipei city taiwan,

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Picture: Japanese waterfall blog.

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

Bergen, Norway5

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

about tokyo tourism

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

about tokyo tourism

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

about tokyo tourism

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

mekong delta travel blog tips southern vietnam (2)

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

Real-life experience-enhance-traveling-things to do at young age

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

tanuki-statue-ratel-symbol of lucky-japan

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

living in cave houses in andalucia southern spain (1)

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

koda-walking-concrete, Tallinn, Estonia, tiny homes

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

Tokyo blog — the fullest tokyo guide blog for first-timers.

,best autumn spots in tokyo,best place to see autumn leaves in tokyo,where to view autumn leaves in tokyo (1)

Tokyo is one of the largest cities in the world. Very, very few cities are big with many tourist attractions and bearing full of traditions, long-standing history and culture as this city. You want to experience all of Tokyo with just a few days visit in your Japanese travel itinerary? No way, it will never be enough! However, are you planning a trip to Tokyo and don’t know how to start?

  • Tokyo travel blog — The fullest Tokyo travel guide for first time visiting Tokyo

Tokyo best parks — 10+ best & most beautiful parks in tokyo

  • Cherry blossom Tokyo 2024 forecast — 14 best places to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo
  • Ikebukuro blog — 7+ best places to go & top fun things to do in Ikebukuro

tokyo tower

So, is Tokyo worth visiting, how to visit Tokyo, what to do in Tokyo and how to plan a budget trip to Tokyo for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Tokyo travel blog (Tokyo blog) with the fullest Tokyo travel guide (guide to Tokyo, Tokyo tourist guide, Tokyo city guide, Tokyo guide) from how to get to Tokyo, best places to visit, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Tokyo to help you maximize your trip as follows!

Sushi-Sora-13826-2400x1500

Tokyo travel guide blog: Overview of Tokyo

Tokyo is a mega city with an extreme area, is divided into many different districts. Even with the central districts, getting around them would take a lot of time. This city always makes people overwhelmed by modern high-rise buildings, financial centers, technology. If you want to change the atmosphere a little, you can take day trips to nearby places like Kawaguchiko or Hakone .

street shinjuku,best neighborhoods in tokyo for tourist,best neighbourhoods in tokyo,coolest neighborhoods in tokyo (1)

It generally takes at least 4 days for the basic Tokyo experience, and another 2-3 days for day trip spots from Tokyo. Tokyo is not only about skyscrapers, amusement parks to play all day and night. Tokyo also has many peaceful places such as temples, shrines, large and cool parks. And what do I like best about Tokyo? Of course that is its cuisine.

Sensoji Temple, Tokyo

Tokyo travel guide: How to get to Tokyo?

If you’re flying to Tokyo from Vietnam or other cities, you’ll usually arrive at this city’s main airport – Narita International Airport. From the airport it takes about 1 hour to getting to the city center by train. And there are many traveling options for you.

Narita International Airport2

After completing the entry procedures, you go down and you will see a lot of train ticket counters. You can buy tickets directly here, staff will guide and advise you on the options of ticket types and trains going into the city center. Some train lines or buses you can consider to buy tickets depending on the location of the hotel you stay:

keisei-ae-skyliner-big

Tokyo Skyliner and Tokyo Subway Ticket Combo

  • Skyliner (Keisei Electric Railway) or Keisei Main Line: This train goes to Nippori and Ueno with respectively prices of JPY2,400 / way and JPY1,000 / way.
  • Tokyo Shuttle Bus costs JPY900 / way.
  • Taxi or Uber: The price is quite high, about JPY20,000 – JPY30,000.

Narita Airport - Airport Limousine Bus Stop

In addition to Narita Airport, Tokyo has a smaller airport, Haneda Airport, and is often a transportation hub for domestic flights. The airport has a monorail system that connects to the Keikyu Line, so you can change trains to the metro (subway) to get to the city center.

Haneda international airport

If you getting to Tokyo from other cities by train

Whether you take the Shinkansen or other trains to Tokyo, the last station is usually Tokyo Station. From here you switch to Metro to get to other points in the city center.

shinkansen-bullet-train-1200x800

Tokyo budget travel blog: Public transportation and getting around Tokyo

Public transportation in Tokyo is as complicated and elusive as the Japanese meticulousness. Perhaps the metro in Tokyo is as troublesome as Paris. Believe me, it is imperative that you deeply research about the public transportation and the subway (metro) system of Tokyo before coming to this city, to avoid losing more money like me.

about tokyo tourism

Actually, when I stepped out of the Shinkansen train at Tokyo Station, I didn’t know anything about the subway here. Also speculated that: Oh, these cities have nothing, just buy a day ticket with unlimited traveling times and go. But when looking to buy a day ticket, there are quite a few different types, corresponding to different geographical regions. Ticket vending machines are bilingual, making it difficult to buy.

In Tokyo, besides buses and taxis, there are a number of other good options that are possible and frequently in use are: JR Lines (for those with JR Pass ), Subway and Monorail. The subway is the most popular and most used.

Tokyo Airport

The subway in Tokyo

The subway system in Tokyo is divided into 3 main lines, including:

  • Tokyo Metro Lines: Operates mainly in the central area and divided into 9 main lines. It is also Tokyo’s largest metro network.
  • Toei Lines: Divided into 4 different lines and going to points farther from the city center, with an interchange with Tokyo Metro Lines.
  • Toden Arakawa Line, Nippori-Toneri Liner: These lines are less popular and most if you are just tourists, you will never meet these lines.

about tokyo tourism

Based on the regions, divide the lines as above that will have different ticket types.

Single ticket: Tickets purchased at any train station via ticket vending machines, valid for one trip, cost depending the distance you want to go, from JPY160 – JPY190, if going further can be up to JPY200 – JPY300. Note if you want to change the line from Tokyo Metro Line to Toei Line, you will have to pay extra at the ticket vending machine, the machine will issue a new ticket before you “check-out”.

tokyo subway

Daily ticket (Day Pass): Tickets with unlimited travel times a day, divided by line. The types of pass / day tickets are as follows:

  • Tokyo Subway Ticket (24h: 800 yen, 48h: 1200 yen, 72h: 1500 yen): Covering all subway lines (Toei and Tokyo Metro). This ticket type is only sold at some major stations in the city.
  • Toei and Tokyo Metro One-Day Economy Pass (900 yen): Covering all subway lines (Toei and Tokyo Metro) in a full day. Buy tickets at stations in central Tokyo.
  • Tokyo Metro 24-Hour Ticket (600 yen): Unlimited travel with 9 lines of Tokyo metro, but not applicable to 4 Toei and JR lines, purchased at ticket vending machines at Metro stations. The ticket is suitable for anyone planning to go to the following destinations: Asakusa, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Tokyo, Roppongi, Omotesando and Akihabara.

japan public transport

  • Tokyo Subway Ticket (24, 48, or 72 Hours)

PASMO : Like Seoul’s T-money card or Singapore MRT card, you will have to pay JPY500 deposit. If you do not use it anymore you will be refunded JPY500 but you will be charged JPY210 fee. This card is convenient to use without having to buy single tickets. There are also many more passes you can learn more.

JR Pass (Japan Rail Pass)

inside shinkansen

With the JR Pass in hand, you can unlimited travel with any JR line in Japan in general and Tokyo in particular. Some lines in Tokyo can be used with the JR Pass you can consider:

  • Yamanote line: One of the most used lines, this line goes through many popular spots such as Ueno, Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, Shibuya, ..
  • Chuo Line: This line cuts through the Yamatnote loop from Shinjuku to Tokyo Station.
  • Keihin-Tohoku Line, Saikyo Line, Shinkansen Line: Passenger lines where JR line operates.

about tokyo tourism

  • JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)

Tokyo Monorail

Use when you want to go to Odaiba, the ticket price is quite expensive around JPY300 / trip. However, taking monorail has its beauty, especially you will be slowly watching the street scenes.

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo guide blog: Where to stay in Tokyo?

Tokyo is one of the most expensive cities in the world, of course the trip costs to Tokyo are quite expensive, in which the cost of hotels and accommodation in this city is also in the top of Japan. If you have abundant budget, you can choose a beautiful 4-5 stars hotel, otherwise, rent a homestay on Airbnb . Besides, if you go alone, you can book a hostel.

Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nagoya Shinkansenguchi

Hostel in Tokyo

There are 2 largest hostel chains in Japan, First Cabin and 9 Hours Capsule, with networks covering the country, especially in big cities. In Tokyo, I stayed for 4 consecutive nights at Nine Hours Otemachi – Imperial Palace ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) , one metro station from Tokyo Station. This is an extremely professional hostel type and is also very eye-catching design.

about tokyo tourism

9 Hours building a dense dorm system, 2 layers of beds for each floor. The management of this hostel is also quite unique, each guest will have a separate locker located in the Rest Room, not in the dorm because the dorm area is quite small and there is no proper door lock. Everything from the guests’ luggage and belongings is left here, you just bring in the dorm what is needed.

Besides 9 Hours, you can refer to some other very beautiful and stylish hostels such as First Cabin’s hostel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) chain with many hostels throughout Tokyo. Or Bunka Hostel Tokyo ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) is a 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station, Hostel Chapter Two Tokyo ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) is located right next to the Sumida River.

about tokyo tourism

Nice hotels in Tokyo

Tokyo is a paradise of architecture, from traditional to modern. And the upscale hotels in this city also reflect very clear that special feature. Some beautiful and high-class hotels you can refer to such as:

about tokyo tourism

  • HOSHINOYA Tokyo: A beautiful hotel with architecture and style blending tradition and modernity. This hotel located just 800 meters from Tokyo Station, staff are dressed in traditional costumes, low beds in the style of old Japan. One downside is that this hotel is “super expensive”! – High class! (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
  • Andaz Tokyo-a concept by Hyatt Hotel: Nice view, and the price is “beautiful” like Hoshinoya Tokyo hotel above too! (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
  • ONE @ Tokyo: This hotel with a super nice view, in fact, the price is not too high, just over $100 / night. The exterior design of the hotel is very nice, the room is spacious and the room overlooks the Skytree at night, really awesome. The hotel is just a few steps from the Oshiage metro station and the foot of the Skytree tower. (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

ONE@Tokyo (1)

In addition, you can refer to one of the best Airbnb in Tokyo: New design capsule hotel (co-ed, no lock) at $27/night or Posh Tsukiji / Ginza Lux Design Studio – New! at $67/night.

–> Airbnb link discount up to $35 for the first booking here: https://www.airbnb.com/c/anht5185

You can find, check rates, availability & booking for Tokyo hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com or Airbnb.com .

Tokyo travel blog: What and where to eat in Tokyo?

food, tokyo, japan

Food is what I love most about Tokyo. There are too many options, too many nuances, subtle in every dish in this country. Talking about Japanese cuisine, I am not only interested in the taste, the freshness, but also the way the Japanese express it. There is so much to say about one of the finest culinary in the world.

Some small tips and notes about eating in Tokyo

food stalls tokyo

  • Lunch and dinner: Usually at mid-range restaurants in Tokyo, the lunch price is quite a bit lower than the dinner. So if you want to experience more, or want to eat cheaper, you should eat more at noon and eat less in the evening. Sometimes I even eat up to 2 lunches on the same day.
  • Reservations: With some famous and luxurious restaurants, you should book a table in advance to ensure there is room on arrival, especially in the evening.
  • Prices: There are various prices for meals in Tokyo, depending on the level of luxury where you want to go. The price of a meal ranges from JPY500 – JPY10,000 or more. At JPY500, usually ramen, udon or soba noodles, there is not much difference between a shop at deserted alley or a street restaurant. For a fuller meal, the price ranges from JPY1,000 – JPY3,000.
  • Line up: A very familiar scene in Japan, lined up and lined up, especially during rush hour in the evening. You should be prepared for this, should come earlier. Some restaurants have waiting seats for diners as well.
  • Types of restaurants: There are many dining styles in Japan, for example under the train station is just a small booth selling noodles for quick eating. Or order at vending machines, you buy tickets at the machine and give receipts to staff. There are also food and drink styles served right at the spot, such as sushi with the chef directly preparing and serving you.

Ramen, one of popular japanese food you have to eat

I will write a separate article about dining experiences in Japan. In this article, I will introduce through some eateries and dishes that I have tasted in 4 days in Tokyo.

Sushi in Tokyo

about tokyo tourism

I ate 2 sushi meals in this city, sushi bar style (serving right at spot). A meal in Shinjuku with a 45-minute queuing experience in the evening, and a second, cheaper dining in Tokyo Station’s food court. Of course, “you get what you pay for”, the meal in Shinjuku is so delicious with a diverse, variety of dishes.

The cheapest meal – dinner in Ginza

Dinner with a simple set meal, but full with fish, beef, pickled vegetables and a plate of fried vegetables and soup. It must be said that my stomach is full, delicious, but the price is only JPY1,180.

about tokyo tourism

Eating at Memory Lane – Shinjuku

A place filled with pubs, wandering in the small alleys of Shinjuku. The meal include all kinds of grilled food, a bowl of soup cooked with pork intestines, stomach. Overall expensive and not really tasty.

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

Beef hotpot with “broth” is pure water.

True to the literal meaning of this dish – the hotpot broth is pure water served with vegetables and beef. Beef will be dipped in water and served with a separate sauce. Simple but also quite delicious, cheap.

shabu shabu hot pot japan (1)

Hakata Rice

I ate this meal at Tokyo Station, set meal called Hakata style zouni soup set. It includes rice, Japanese tofu, a bowl of salmon soup. Overall delicious, especially the rice is very fragrant and sticky.

about tokyo tourism

Lots of, I ate a variety of noodles in Tokyo, including ramen, soba and udon. Whenever I feel hungry, I will jump into a nearby restaurant and order a bowl of noodles and ate it well.

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo travel guide blog: Where to go?

Visiting Tokyo, you should note that you will have to walk quite a lot. The city is very large, although the metro network, the trains is everywhere, but it cannot be fully covered. The train stations are usually quite far apart, so if you are at one point and want to catch the train to another point, you will have to walk quite a bit.

Tokyo tourist map:

Places to visit when traveling to Tokyo you need to consider putting in the bucket list as a basis for making an itinerary as below, I arranged in separate areas:

Chiyoda and Ginza District

Chidorigafuchi Park: An ultra-wide park with a small river running around. During the cherry blossom season, the flowers on the two sides of the river are covered in pink-white with the passenger boats below, all creating a peaceful and charming landscape.

rowing-boats-during-cherry-blossom-at-chidorigafuchi

Imperial Palace : Located inside the Chidorigafuchi park area, built on the Edo period ruins and is the embodiment of an ancient Japanese empire. To get inside you need to book a tour online in advance, otherwise you can strolling outside in the park area to see the palace from a far.

Japan palace-tokyo

Tokyo Imperial Palace Highlights Tour with National Licensed Guide

Ginza: Can be called a district with a lot of extremely crowded, bustling neighborhoods. Coming here during the day or evening is beautiful with many high-rise buildings, representing a modern city of Tokyo. Remember to find a cafe on the upper floor to see the whole city.

best shopping malls in tokyo tokyo shopping guide tokyo shopping center shopping area in tokyo (1)

Shibuya District

Yoyogi Park and Meiji Jingu: Although Yoyogi Park does not have many cherry blossoms, it is very clean and airy. People can come here on weekends to relax and rest. Going deep inside is the Meiji Jingu Shrine, remember to visit the walls made up of barrels of sake wrapped in straw bearing bold traditional Japanese culture.

Yoyogi Park-Best Places to View Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo1

Harajuku: Like a youth venue. Here you can visit some of the malls selling luxury goods, and the streets with weird cafes, milk tea or ice cream shops. It wouldn’t be surprising to see a long line of beautiful boys and girls lining up just to buy a certain drink.

You should not skip the streets in Harajuku when traveling to Japan.

Shibuya Crossing: Super famous crossing of Tokyo, remember to come here during rush hour and look for a tall building to viewing down the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. This is known as the busiest crossing in the world with thousands of pedestrians waiting for the red light, and when the light turns green, people flock down the streets like a colony of ants.

about tokyo tourism

Read also: 5 coolest neighborhoods in Tokyo & best neighborhoods in Tokyo for tourist.

Shinjuku District

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo’s entertainment district, where young people often hang out and playing, especially on weekends. Some of the fun places to eat and drink in Shinjuku you need to know to immerse yourself in Tokyo’s vibrant life:

Memory lane: A small alley with a lot of small eateries, mainly serving food and drinks. Here they have hang many fake peach branches, but they are very beautiful when shooting.

about tokyo tourism

Kabukicho Red Light Street: Very vibrant at night, especially on weekends. Just going through this red light district in the evening to ensure there are many “brokers” offering you adult services. This famous street is quite similar to the red light street in Amsterdam. But in Amsterdam, girls are in a room, invite you through a glass window, but in Kabukicho, it is more private, often offered via a broker.

Kabukicho shinjuku

Shinjuku Golden Gai: The street focuses on night bars like Ta Hien or Bui Vien in Vietnam, but the bars here are inside, not on the sidewalk like in Vietnam.

Golden Gai Tokyo narrow alley at night

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: A must-visit during cherry blossom season and autumn. Not only sakura, Shinjuku Garden also has many other colorful flowers. In addition, the garden also divided into many separate themes such as Japanese garden, French garden, English landscape garden.

Shinjuku Gyoen park autumn tokyo (1)

This is an area located in the north of Tokyo with attractions such as:

Tokyo Skytree: This is considered the most popular tourist attraction in Tokyo. From the top of the tower you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Tokyo. Personally, this tower is not my favorite place, so I just stand from afar to watch, not buy tickets to get to the observation deck.

Tokyo Skytree

Ueno Park: One of the most beautiful cherry blossom viewing spots when traveling to Tokyo. You can take a walk around the park, there are many kiosks selling souvenirs, small eateries. There is also a long row of Torii gates quite similar to Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto. Of course not as beautiful as the original.

Uneo park-Best Places to View Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo4

Sensō-ji Temple: Beautiful temple, even more beautiful than Meiji Jingu Shrine. Only minus point is too crowded, too crowded with tourists. In cherry blossom season, the picture is even more beautiful.

about tokyo tourism

Edo-Tokyo Museum: The museum with artifacts from the Edo period and well worth a visit. This is not just a museum, it also has high architectural value because they show a historical period of Tokyo extremely visually. Social models, streets from ancient times, even a a large bridge has built for visitors right in the museum. Admission fee is JPY600.

about tokyo tourism

Other attractions

Tsukiji Fish Market: This very famous fish market used to be a place to trade large types of fish caught for distribution to traders and restaurants in the city. Now the transaction area has been moved, but the fish market is still the place to go because there are many eateries that specialize in seafood at outside. Come here you freely enjoying fresh seafood at affordable prices.

sushi, Tsukiji, tokyo, japan

Ryogoku Sumo Town: Located in Sumida, the capital of Sumo in Japan. Although the Sumo tournaments only take place in May and September each year, you can still come here to visit, visit the Sumo museum, and wander the nearby streets. The typical dish here is “chanko” hotpot – the signature dish of sumo.

Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament, nagoya travel blog (1)

In general, Tokyo is one of the largest capitals in the world, with intertwined and complicated traffic systems. Traveling to Tokyo requires you to have good planning, preparation and estimating the necessary expenses because traveling, accommodation cost is expensive. But the services and experiences are really worth the money, especially the food.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Tokyo you can refer to

  • Private Narita International Airport Transfers (NRT) for Tokyo 23 Wards, Hakone, or Karuizawa
  • Private Haneda International Airport Transfers (HND) for Tokyo 23 Wards, Hakone, or Karuizawa
  • Airport Limousine Bus Transfers from/to Narita and Haneda International Airport (Free Wifi Onboard)
  • Tokyo Amazing Sightseeing Bus Day Tour
  • Tokyo Highlights Private Day Tour
  • Nikko Day Tour from Tokyo
  • Mt Fuji & Hakone Day Tour: Lake Ashi & Ropeway Day Trip from Tokyo
  • Nikko Cultural Day Tour from Tokyo
  • Tokyo Skyliner and Tokyo Subway Ticket
  • Shuttle Bus Transfers (One Way/Round Trip) from Shinjuku/Ikebukuro to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea
  • Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket
  • Klook Pass Greater Tokyo
  • SHIBUYA SKY Ticket
  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter Ticket
  • Skyliner Narita Airport Express Ticket
  • TeamLab Planets Ticket
  • TOKYO SKYTREE® Ticket
  • Limousine Bus Narita or Haneda Airport to Tokyo
  • Skyliner Narita Airport Express With Tokyo Subway Ticket
  • JR Tokyo Wide Pass
  • Sky Hop-on and Hop-off Bus Pass
  • 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
  • 4G WiFi (BKK and DMK Airport Pick Up) for Japan (Unlimited Data)

Are you finding more top things to do in Japan: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here.

Related articles

Tokyo travel blog — The fullest Tokyo travel guide for first time visiting Tokyo

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Yamanashi blog — the yamanashi travel guide & top things to do in yamanashi, guide to suzhou nightlife — 5+ what & best things to do in suzhou at night.

about tokyo tourism

Yunnan travel blog — The fullest Yunnan travel guide for first-timers

about tokyo tourism

When is the best time to visit Philippines? — The best, worst, affordable & best season to travel to Philippines

about tokyo tourism

Nanjing itinerary 2 days — What to do & how to spend 2 days in Nanjing perfectly?

about tokyo tourism

What to do in Battambang? — 12+ must, top & best things to do in Battambang

When is the best time to visit kyoto — the best, worst, affordable & best season to visit kyoto, editor picks.

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo best parks — 10+ best & most beautiful parks in...

about tokyo tourism

Yamanashi blog — The Yamanashi travel guide & top things to...

about tokyo tourism

Guide to Suzhou nightlife — 5+ what & best things to...

Popular posts.

about tokyo tourism

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

pineapple cake must buy in taiwan

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

korean honey

Must buy in Korea — Top 23 cheap, famous & best...

Popular category.

  • Inspiration + Guide 1449
  • Trip Inspiration 469
  • Thailand 209
  • Food + Drink 203
  • Coasts + Islands 193
  • South Korea 168
  • Vietnam 166
  • Travel Photos 144
  • Work for Us
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy

You cannot visit the same Tokyo twice. The city is always changing in fun, unpredictable ways and creates new styles by mixing modernity and tradition, which is what the “Tokyo Tokyo Old meets New” logo and slogan are meant to communicate to travelers everywhere. Visit it today and discover YOUR Tokyo. Your new story starts here.

Tokyo Tokyo

Tokyo breathes with the tradition of four hundred years since the Edo period. It’s a city that never stops and embraces the future. Tradition and innovation meet and evolve to create new value here in Tokyo. Old meets New It’s the energy and excitement of Tokyo. Experience the surprises that start here.

Promotion Video

Promotion video: nothing like tokyo.

Undeniably, there’s no place like Tokyo. One of the planet’s most exciting cities, from leading the world technical innovations to maintaining its deeply rooted traditions. Tokyo has it all!

Tradition thumbnail

Watch Video

Innovation thumbnail

Concept Video

Old meets new.

The city’s mix of tradition and innovation has been and will continue to be the fuel that keeps the city evolving.

Exciting thumbnail

Logo Concept

Logo Concept thumbnail

A design that presents “Tokyo” in two different fonts in order to intuitively impart an image of the city. The brushstrokes and Gothic block typeface represent the originality of Tokyo, where traditions dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868), coexist alongside the cutting-edge culture of today. The tradition is expressed in black ink, while the new Tokyo is expressed in blue, like the sky spreading forward to express the innovative future. To give some playfulness, the logo also includes a traditional stamp that shows the one of Tokyo’s newest sightseeing landmarks, Shibuya scramble crossing.

Message from  the Governor of Tokyo

Tokyo Tokyo is part of the promotion for the Tokyo brand. Find out more about the Tokyo brand below.

Tokyo Tokyo image gallary banner

Follow us on!

  • English  / 
  • Business Support
  • Site Policy
  • Cookie Policy

COPYRIGHT 2022 TOKYO METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Explore Tokyo

about tokyo tourism

Plan Your Trip to Tokyo: Best of Tokyo Tourism

maryyeo

Travel Advice

Essential tokyo.

about tokyo tourism

Where to stay

about tokyo tourism

Where to eat

about tokyo tourism

How to spend 7 days in Tokyo

about tokyo tourism

The Best Free Things to Do in Tokyo

about tokyo tourism

Explore Tokyo by interest

Only in tokyo.

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo on a dime

about tokyo tourism

If you’re feeling fancy-ish

about tokyo tourism

Stop and smell the roses

about tokyo tourism

See the city after dark

about tokyo tourism

Sip on some sake

about tokyo tourism

Take a break at a teahouse

about tokyo tourism

The city’s a stage

about tokyo tourism

All about that view

about tokyo tourism

For the history buff

about tokyo tourism

More Asian cultural capitals

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing tokyo.

about tokyo tourism

Tokyo is so much easier to get around in than you expect before you get there. It is crowded and busy but organized and sensible (as opposed to, say, Rome or Los Angeles). The system of subways and trains can be daunting because there are so many, but you can get anywhere you want to go with a good station map.

about tokyo tourism

Don't ask for "bathroom,” ask for "toilet.” I'm terrible at picking up a new language, but I managed to make it through. Usually, I'd say something in mangled Japanese, then would get a response in English.

about tokyo tourism

Bargainhunter

Get maps and travel information in English before your trip and at tourist information booths in large Japanese cities.

about tokyo tourism

I see Tokyo as the perfect balance of opposite elements. The size and scale bring a sense of chaos yet everything seems to flow and work in perfect order. It balances a wonderful history with modern and edge. It is vast but offers intimate small experiences that are hard to replicate. It is a perfect balance of contradictions that draw you in and leave you with a sense of wonder.

about tokyo tourism

Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, to glimpse into history at the Imperial Palace and its many cherry blossom studded shrines, or to peek into the future in districts like electronic paradise Akihabara and edgy, fashionable Shinjuku, Tokyo will cater to almost every curiosity. A cradle of politics, culture, and business for Japan, Tokyo offers an almost limitless variety of entertainment, shopping, dining, and alternative opinions.

about tokyo tourism

jessicawhylee

Given all of Tokyo's skyscrapers and salarymen, it's easy to assume that the city is a barren urban wasteland without a breath of fresh air to punctuate its high-tech and industrialized neighborhoods. But between all those glittering shopping centers and glass business buildings are pockets of beautiful parks, serene walking paths, and tranquil temple and shrine gardens — all helping you to slow down and take a breather.

Something old, something new, and something delicious — just for you. Everyone loves a good meal, and in Tokyo— Japan's greatest metropolis — there seem to be good meals on offer at every turn. From ramen bars to all-you-can-eat izakaya, to traditional sushi restaurants where steaming cups of green tea accompany flawless cuts of sashimi, to ultra-modern cafes where girls in French Rococo-inspired outfits dig into dainty, creamy cakes, and decorated coffees...

about tokyo tourism

EmiliaStockholm

Tokyo has everything, great shopping, excellent restaurants, neon-lighted hustle and bustle, and nice quiet places to walk around.

What is the best way to get there?

Tokyo is serviced by two major airports, Narita and Haneda. Haneda is closer to the city.

You can find more information  here .

The Japan rail network is extensive and trains from other cities could arrive in multiple stations in Tokyo. The most serviced would include Tokyo Station, Shibuya Station and Shinjuku Station. Shinjuku is known as the world’s busiest train station. For bullet trains (shinkansen), the stations are Tokyo Station and Shinagawa Station.

Do I need a visa?

Currently, citizens from 68 countries can travel into Japan visa-free. Please check on your eligibility and visa information  here .

When is the best time to visit?

October to February: Tokyo is a great destination all year round. However, the summer months can be excruciatingly hot. Avoid July, August, and early September if you don’t like to sweat as the average temperature over these months hovers at 85 Fahrenheit (29 Celsius). Tokyo’s high season falls between mid-March to late April, especially because many domestic and foreign travelers like to come at that time to see the cherry blossoms. Similarly, October and early November are peak times to view the fall foliage.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Japan Standard Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

Typically these are 100 Volts / 50-60 Hz. (You will occasionally find 200 Volt outlets for larger appliances like air-conditioning units.) Plugs are Type A and B.

What is the currency?

The Japanese Yen.

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Are credit cards widely accepted.

Yes and no. Many high-end restaurants and small shops are cash only. Major departments stores and hotels will usually accept credit cards. It is always advisable in Japan to carry cash.

Is it easy to find a bank?

How much do i tip.

No need to tip. In general, restaurants are not used to receiving tips at all. Tipping is accepted on very limited occasions. You could tell a taxi driver that you don't need changes after paying the fare, they would accept the change as a tip (but they don't really expect to receive it). When you are visiting some bars, you could buy a bar master a drink if you are having a really good time instead of tipping.

Are there local customs I should know?

Blowing your nose.

Try not to blow your nose in public, and avoid both eating and drinking on the street (ok in parks). It is considered rude.

Counting your change

Do not count change in view of the person who gave it to you. It is also considered rude.

Public transportation

Try to be quiet in trains, at restaurants, and at your hotel. Japanese culture puts great emphasis on consideration for others and maintaining a quiet and harmonious atmosphere.

Remove your shoes when entering private homes, ryokans, and even some restaurants and offices.

If you have a tattoo, forget trying to visit a Japanese hot spring. Unless you have booked a hotel room with a private bath, you won’t be able to enter.

For more observations on customs in Japan,  here's  a useful site.

  • Soho Asakusa
  • Toyoko Inn Asakusa Kuramae NO. 2
  • Unito Chiyoda
  • M-1 Tokyo Shimomaruko
  • Hotel Atlas Shinkabukicho
  • EatWith: Tomoko of Tokyo
  • EatWith: Yuma of Tokyo
  • EatWith: Ayaka of Tokyo
  • EatWith: Ayako of Tokyo
  • Ramen Jiro Kaminoge
  • Nintendo Store Tokyo
  • Tokyo Metro
  • Meguro River
  • Sumida River
  • Nikko one day trip guide with Private transportation
  • Private Car Mt Fuji and Gotemba Outlet in One Day from Tokyo
  • Full Day Hiking Tour at Mt.Takao including Hot Spring
  • Exciting Nikko - One Day Tour from Tokyo
  • Tokyo Fuji Art Museum Admission Ticket + Special Exhibition (when being held)

We use cookies to improve your online experience. For information on the cookies we use and for details on how we process your personal information, please see our cookie policy . By continuing to use our website you consent to us using cookies.

Tokyo General Information & Beyond Tokyo

About Tokyo

Tokyo, one of the world's largest cities, offers a uniquely eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary attractions. Please enjoy Tokyo and beyond during your stay for a conference, meeting or business.

UPDATE ON COVID-19

  • For information on current restrictions to travel to Japan, please visit the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan: https://www.mofa.go.jp/p_pd/pds/page22e_000910.html
  • For coronavirus (COVID-19) advisory information, please visit the website of the Japan National Tourism Organization: https://www.japan.travel/en/coronavirus/ https://www.jnto.go.jp/jpn/projects/visitor_support/japanvisitorhotline.pdf
  • For Tokyo’s latest information, please visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s COVID-19 Information Website: https://stopcovid19.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/en
  • For information on the safety and security of business events in Tokyo, please visit the Safe Events in Tokyo page: https://businesseventstokyo.org/safe_events_in_tokyo/

Tokyo General Information

Climate and clothing.

Average Monthly Temperature and Precipitation

Spring (March-May)

There may be days in March when you need a heavy jacket, but the cold eases considerably in April and by May it can be warm enough for short sleeves during the day. Peak cherry blossom season runs from late March through early April.

Summer (June-August)

The rainy season lasts from late June through around mid-July, with frequent rain and high humidity. After the rains, July and August usher in a steady stream of midsummer heat with temperatures over 30°C, including especially hot and humid days when the temperature rises above 35°C.

Autumn (September-November)

The temperature can rise over 30°C even in September, but both temperature and humidity begin to fall gradually. The peak season for viewing fall foliage starts in mid November. It is recommended to bring a heavy jacket when you come to Tokyo in November.

Winter (December-February)

Constant low temperatures make a jacket and coat indispensable, and it occasionally snows even in the city center. Japan Meteorological Agency http://www.jma.go.jp/en/yoho/319.html

Money, tipping

Japan uses yen (Japanese: 円, symbol: ¥, code: JPY). Coins come in 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500-yen denominations while bills come in 1,000; 2,000; 5,000; and 10,000-yen denominations. As of July 2023, the exchange rate is approx. 135-140 yen to the US dollar and approx. 145-150 yen to the Euro.

Credit cards

International credit cards such as American Express, Visa, Diners Club, and MasterCard can be used at most banks, hotels, inns, and stores. Although not accepted at as many locations as these cards, China UnionPay can also be used. However, some stores do not accept any credit cards, so it is a good idea to have some cash on hand.

Cash advances (ATM)

Roughly 32,000 Japan Post Bank ATMs located throughout Japan, as well as over 26,000 Seven Bank ATMs installed in 7-Eleven convenience stores, offer cash advances for credit cards issued overseas. Most 7-Eleven convenience stores are open 24/7. Logos displayed on or near the ATMs indicate which credit cards can be used.

It is not necessary to tip for service in Japan at places such as restaurants, bars, taxis, airports and hotels. However, hotels and some restaurants indicate an additional service charge on their bills or menus, respectively.

Cashless payment

In accordance with government policy, cashless transactions are promoted in large stores, restaurants, and shopping malls and can be used in many independent stores.

From cafés to train stations to airports, an increasing number of locations in Tokyo offer high-speed Internet connection via free Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi logos are displayed where services are available.

Japan Connected: Free Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi hotspot guide http://www.ntt-bp.net/jcfw/use/index.html

TOKYO FREE Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi Guide http://www.wifi-tokyo.jp/

Electricity

Voltage in Japan is 100 V, while frequency varies by location: 50 Hz in eastern Japan including Tokyo and 60Hz in western Japan. A 2-flat-pin type socket is used.

In Tokyo, smoking is prohibited indoors at restaurants, drinking establishments, accommodations and other facilities used by many people, and only permitted in dedicated smoking rooms inside buildings (effective from April 2020). Smoking is also prohibited outdoors – on the streets and in parks in some areas of Tokyo. Please smoke in designated areas only.

Japanese is the official language of Japan and English is widely spoken in Tokyo. Information desks at various facilities are often staffed with people who can speak English.

Japan has a visa waiver agreement with 69 countries and regions, under which delegates can enter the country for a short-term stay simply with their valid passport.(as of April 2nd, 2023)