Top 10 Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan: The Ultimate Guide for First-Time Visitors
- Alex Brown
- Nov 18, 2024
- 10 min read
Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, is a city that marries the ancient with the ultramodern in a way that’s unlike any other place on Earth. From iconic street crossings and historic temples to serene gardens and epic views of Mt. Fuji, there’s an endless variety of things to experience here. This guide will take you through the top 10 things to do in Tokyo, giving you an in-depth look at each location and a few pro tips to make your visit unforgettable.
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In this article we're going to discuss:
1. Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing is often called the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing, where you’ll witness an incredible flow of people from all directions as the lights turn green in unison.
It’s a defining symbol of Tokyo’s fast-paced energy. Located right outside Shibuya Station, this intersection becomes even more thrilling at night, illuminated by neon lights and the glow of giant screens.
Shibuya Crossing has also become a popular filming location for movies and shows due to its surreal, cinematic feel.
Things to Do:
See the Crossing from Above: For a panoramic view of the crossing, head to the nearby Shibuya Sky or Shibuya Scramble Square observation decks. Watching the flow of people from above gives you a true appreciation of the organized chaos that defines this spot.
Visit the Hachiko Statue: Located just outside Shibuya Station, the Hachiko Statue commemorates a loyal dog named Hachiko who waited for his owner every day, even years after his passing. It’s a heartfelt spot and a popular meeting point for locals.
Shop and Eat Around Shibuya: Shibuya is a shopping and dining hotspot. Check out the iconic Shibuya 109 for the latest fashion trends, or try a Japanese crepe from one of the many street vendors. The area is full of restaurants, cafes, and bars that cater to every taste.
Pro Tip:
Try to visit both during the day and at night for a completely different experience of Shibuya Crossing. Don’t forget your camera to capture the mesmerizing crowd movement!
For the best City Tours of Tokyo, click HERE!
2. Senso-ji Temple
As Tokyo’s oldest and most iconic temple, Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa offers a taste of Japan’s spiritual heritage.
Originally built in 645 AD, this Buddhist temple is dedicated to Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. The grand entrance gate, known as Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), is adorned with an enormous red lantern and flanked by statues of guardian gods.
Walking up to the temple through the lively Nakamise Street feels like a step back in time, with stalls selling traditional snacks, crafts, and souvenirs.
Things to Do:
Walk Through Nakamise Street: This vibrant shopping street is lined with stalls offering everything from colorful kimonos to Japanese sweets like ningyo-yaki (small cakes filled with red bean paste). It’s a great spot to pick up souvenirs or taste local treats.
Pray at the Main Hall: When you reach the main hall, take part in traditional customs like purifying yourself with water from the nearby fountain and offering incense. You can also try your luck with omikuji (fortune-telling paper strips).
Visit the Five-Storied Pagoda: Nearby is a beautiful pagoda that adds to the temple's serene atmosphere and is especially stunning when lit up in the evening.
Pro Tip:
Senso-ji is open day and night, but early mornings or evenings are the best times to visit if you want to avoid large crowds.
3. Tsukiji Outer Market
Tsukiji was once home to Tokyo’s largest fish market, famous worldwide for its bustling tuna auctions.
Though the inner market has moved to Toyosu, the Tsukiji Outer Market remains a foodie’s paradise, bustling with seafood vendors, fresh produce, and countless stalls offering some of Tokyo’s best street food.
This market still holds its charm as a vibrant center of culinary activity where you can experience a slice of Tokyo’s rich food culture.
Things to Do:
Sample Fresh Seafood: Tsukiji is known for its incredibly fresh sushi, sashimi, and other seafood delights. Look for stalls offering oysters, crab, and uni (sea urchin) fresh from the sea.
Try Tamagoyaki (Japanese Omelet): A popular snack here is tamagoyaki, a sweet, fluffy Japanese omelet that’s both delicious and filling. Watch the chefs expertly flip and roll layers of egg at various stalls.
Take a Food Tour: Join a guided food tour to learn about the market’s history and discover hidden culinary gems you might miss on your own.
Pro Tip:
Visit early in the morning to catch the freshest offerings and avoid the lunchtime rush. Remember to bring cash, as many stalls don’t accept credit cards.
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4. Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower, a symbol of Japan’s post-war rebirth, stands proudly at 333 meters and offers stunning views over Tokyo.
Built in 1958 and inspired by the Eiffel Tower, its bright red and white colors make it a striking addition to the Tokyo skyline.
The tower is not only a viewing point but also home to shops, cafes, and the Tokyo One Piece Tower theme park, dedicated to the beloved anime.
Things to Do:
Enjoy the Observation Deck: Head up to the main observation deck for sweeping views of the Tokyo skyline. On clear days, you can even see Mt. Fuji in the distance.
Explore the Tokyo One Piece Tower: Fans of the anime One Piece will love this indoor theme park dedicated to the series, featuring games, attractions, and character shows.
Dine at FootTown: At the base of Tokyo Tower, FootTown offers a variety of restaurants and shops where you can grab a bite while enjoying views of the tower from below.
Pro Tip:
For the best photo opportunities, visit Tokyo Tower just before sunset and watch as the city transforms under the evening lights.
5. Meiji Shrine
Nestled in a lush forested area within the bustling Shibuya district, Meiji Shrine is a peaceful Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
Built in 1920, the shrine honors Japan’s modernization under Emperor Meiji and offers a serene escape from the city’s fast pace.
The approach to the shrine is marked by massive wooden torii gates and winding pathways shaded by tall trees.
Things to Do:
Make a Wish: Visitors can write wishes on small wooden plaques called ema and hang them up around the shrine, participating in a tradition that dates back centuries.
See the Sake Barrels: On your way to the main shrine, you’ll pass an impressive display of decorative sake barrels donated by brewers from around Japan as a tribute to the deities.
Visit During New Year’s: Meiji Shrine attracts millions of visitors during the New Year for hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year, making it one of Tokyo’s most culturally rich experiences.
Pro Tip:
The shrine is free to enter, but consider visiting in the early morning for a quieter experience and a chance to witness Shinto rituals.
Hungry?!? Click HERE for the top 10 best Restaurants in Tokyo.
6. Akihabara
Known as Tokyo’s “Electric Town,” Akihabara is a paradise for tech enthusiasts, gamers, and anime fans.
Originally famous for its electronics stores, it has now evolved into the epicenter of Japan’s otaku (geek) culture.
Here, you’ll find multi-story anime shops, gaming arcades, and cafes dedicated to popular anime characters, drawing fans from all over the world.
Things to Do:
Shop for Anime and Manga: Akihabara is lined with stores selling anime merchandise, figurines, and manga, including the iconic Mandarake and Animate stores.
Play at a Gaming Arcade: Try your hand at a variety of games, from classic claw machines to rhythm games at one of the district’s many multi-floor arcades.
Visit a Maid Cafe: For a truly unique experience, step into a maid cafe where waitresses dressed as maids serve food, perform mini shows, and treat you like royalty.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss the Super Potato store, a retro game shop with rare and nostalgic video games and consoles. It’s a must-visit for gaming fans!
For the best City Tours of Tokyo, click HERE!
7. Imperial Palace & East Gardens
The Imperial Palace, surrounded by a picturesque moat and ancient stone walls, is the primary residence of Japan’s Emperor.
While the main palace is closed to the public, visitors can explore the Imperial Palace East Gardens, which are open year-round and offer a glimpse into Japan’s imperial history.
The gardens, set in the heart of Tokyo, are home to beautiful seasonal flowers, historic ruins, and tranquil walking paths.
Things to Do:
Walk Around the East Gardens: Wander through the landscaped grounds, exploring historic ruins of Edo Castle, seasonal flower gardens, and tranquil ponds.
Snap Photos of the Nijubashi Bridge: The famous double-arched Nijubashi Bridge, located near the palace’s main gate, is a popular photo spot that showcases the palace’s grandeur.
Visit During Cherry Blossom Season: The East Gardens are particularly beautiful in spring when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, making it an ideal spot for a hanami (flower viewing) picnic.
Pro Tip:
Admission to the East Gardens is free, and they’re closed on Mondays and Fridays, so plan accordingly.
8. Ginza Shopping District
Ginza is Tokyo’s premier shopping district, home to luxury boutiques, flagship stores, and department stores that cater to every fashion, tech, and lifestyle desire.
This area is one of the most upscale neighborhoods in the city, filled with sparkling storefronts, gourmet restaurants, and famous Japanese brands like UNIQLO and Muji.
With pedestrian-friendly streets on weekends, Ginza transforms into a bustling paradise for shoppers, foodies, and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Things to Do:
Visit Mitsukoshi Department Store: Japan’s oldest department store, Mitsukoshi, is a must-visit for upscale shopping and beautiful food halls, offering everything from fresh sushi to intricate sweets.
Explore the Ginza Six Mall: Ginza Six is a luxury shopping complex with over 240 stores, high-end art installations, and even a rooftop garden that offers a unique view of the district.
Stroll the Pedestrian Paradise: On weekends, the main Chuo-dori Street becomes a vehicle-free zone, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll as you browse the storefronts and enjoy street performances.
Pro Tip:
Many stores in Ginza offer tax-free shopping for tourists, so bring your passport to save on purchases!
Want the Cheapest Flights to Tokyo? Who wouldn't! Click HERE to get yours!
9. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is an expansive, beautifully landscaped park nestled in the heart of Tokyo.
Once a residence for the imperial family, the park covers over 144 acres and features a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese, English, and French gardens.
Shinjuku Gyoen is known for its cherry blossoms in spring, but it offers scenic beauty year-round with its lakes, pavilions, and seasonal flora.
Things to Do:
Experience Cherry Blossom Season: In spring, Shinjuku Gyoen becomes a cherry blossom wonderland with over a thousand sakura trees in full bloom. It’s one of the best spots in Tokyo for hanami (flower viewing).
Explore the Traditional Japanese Garden: The Japanese-style garden, complete with picturesque ponds and arched bridges, is ideal for photography and relaxation.
Have a Picnic: Shinjuku Gyoen is one of the few public parks in Tokyo where picnicking is encouraged. Bring a blanket and some Japanese snacks, and enjoy a peaceful lunch surrounded by nature.
Pro Tip:
The garden has a modest entry fee but is well worth it. Arrive early in the morning for a quiet experience, especially during peak bloom season.
10. Day Trip to Mt. Fuji
No trip to Tokyo is complete without a day trip to Japan’s most iconic natural landmark, Mt. Fuji.
Standing at 3,776 meters, this majestic volcano is the highest mountain in Japan and offers breathtaking views that have inspired artists and travelers for centuries.
Whether you’re climbing the mountain, visiting nearby Fuji Five Lakes, or just admiring it from afar, Mt. Fuji is a must-see for anyone visiting Japan.
Things to Do:
Take a Scenic Hike: For the adventurous, several trails allow you to hike up the mountain during climbing season (July to early September). Each route provides unique scenery and a sense of accomplishment.
Visit Lake Kawaguchi: Lake Kawaguchi is one of the Fuji Five Lakes and offers beautiful reflections of Mt. Fuji on clear days. It’s an excellent spot for photography, boat rides, and even hot spring baths with mountain views.
Ride the Fuji Shibazakura Festival: If you’re visiting in spring, check out the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, where fields of pink moss phlox bloom in a stunning display against the backdrop of Mt. Fuji.
Pro Tip:
For a comfortable day trip, consider taking a bus or train from Tokyo to the Fuji Five Lakes area, where you can catch one of the best views of Mt. Fuji without needing to hike.
Hungry?!? Click HERE for the top 10 best Restaurants in Tokyo.
Interactive Map
Conclusion
Tokyo is a city that truly has something for everyone, from historical temples and serene gardens to vibrant shopping districts and famous landmarks.
Whether you’re diving into Japanese culture at Senso-ji Temple, shopping in Ginza, or taking a day trip to see the iconic Mt. Fuji, each experience adds a unique layer to your Tokyo adventure.
With so much to see and do, Tokyo is a city that will captivate and inspire you, leaving you with memories to cherish for years to come.
Q&A Section
What’s the best time of year to visit Tokyo?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most popular times to visit, as the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms and autumn leaves make for stunning scenery.
Do I need to know Japanese to travel around Tokyo?
What’s the best way to get around Tokyo?
Are these attractions family-friendly?
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