Discover the Many Different Sides of Tokyo
The sheer size of Tokyo means you could easily spend weeks here. The population numbers 13 million and the number of activities isn’t far behind that. Ancient traditions mesh with futuristic developments for an intrigue that is unique in the world.
Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly options or experiences that will give you a glimpse into why Tokyo is considered a luxury destination, there’s something on offer in this glowing city.
If you don’t have weeks, you can always return for a second trip, or a third — the face of the city is constantly evolving, so no two visits are alike. Whether you’re on your first visit or your 50th, these things to do in Tokyo are always worth the time.
Snack on Sushi at Tsukiji Market
If there is one attraction in Tokyo that you can’t miss, it’s the Tsukiji Market. The oldest and largest fish market in the world, around 1,800 tonnes of seafood pass from ships to buyers here every day. For tourists, the highlight of the market is dining on fresh sushi at one of the many small local stalls.
The market is vast and can have (unsurprisingly) a strong smell, so spending a couple of hours here is usually enough.
Step Back in Time at Senso-ji
Senso-ji is the oldest and most significant temple in Tokyo. It dates back to 645 AD and was built to honor Kannon, the goddess of mercy. As well as the five-storied pagoda of the main temple, the complex includes the Asakusa Shrine, the Hozoman Gate and a centuries-old shopping street where you’ll find traditional Japanese souvenirs.
There is a lot to see, and you’ll be competing with crowds, so plan on spending several hours at this magnificent temple.
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Dive Into the Crowds at the Shibuya Crossing
It’s said that this is the busiest intersection in Japan, and possibly the whole world. The crossing is one of the most iconic locations in Tokyo, with vast numbers of people — up to 1,000 in peak times — moving across the street. Let yourself get swept up in the immense crowd for a quintessential Tokyo experience.
Soak up Culture at the Tokyo National Museum
Even if you’re not a museum buff, you’ll find something to love in the Tokyo National Museum. It’s home to the largest collection of Japanese art in the world, and collections include ancient pottery and samurai swords.
Wander Through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
In the midst of Tokyo’s skyscrapers and highways is Shinjuku Garden, an oasis of green and calm. Strolling through the 144 acres of green space you’ll see Japanese, English and French landscaping styles. The best time to visit is during spring, when the cherry blossoms come out in all their glory.
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Check out Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo’s National Sumo Hall
Sumo is sport and theater rolled into one, so catching a sumo show is an unforgettable experience. In January, May and September there are 15-day sumo events held at Ryogoku Kokugikan.
Go to watch a bout of wrestling and you will be treated to the pomp of the rikishi parades as the sumo fighters enter the arena wearing ceremonial gowns, the theatrics of stomping and stretching as they warm up, as well as the dramatic bouts themselves.
Eat in Omoide Yokocho
A stretch of tiny bars and eateries that proudly wear the scars of time, Omoide Yokocho is a fun historic area to explore. You’ll find it near Shinjuku Station, somewhat fittingly near the railway tracks. The atmosphere is as thick as the aromas of barbecued chicken yakitori.
Pick your way through the narrow lanes and hunt down soba eateries, cafes and bars that only seat between five and 10 people.
Shop in Ginza
Shopaholics may want to leave their credit cards behind when they go to Ginza. A shopping utopia, you’ll be able to find a boutique for everything under the sun, from high-end luxury fashion brands to equally lavish stores selling traditional handmade kimonos. There are lots of inexpensive finds as well, so this makes for a great stop for souvenir shopping.
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Gaze in Awe at the Meiji Jingu Shrine
The serenity and beauty of this Shinto shrine make it a favorite with visitors. The shrine is dedicated to the Emperor Meiji and his Empress Shoken and was built in 1920, several years after their deaths. Visiting the shrine will give you a look at the devotion to the first emperor of modern Japan — during his reign, Japan became more westernized and established itself as a world power.
It’s also a lovely spot to spend some time, thanks to the walking paths curling through quiet green gardens.
Visit the Surreal Kawaii Monster Cafe
Tokyo is the place to be if you love themed cafes — there are cat cafes, snake cafes, Hello Kitty cafes and pretty much every other kind of themed eatery you can imagine. One of the best is the Kawaii Monster Cafe, which draws inspiration for its menu and decor from kawaii, the culture of cute. Everything is completely over the top and wildly colorful.
Depending on your tastes, you’ll either find massive amounts of fodder for your Instagram feed or want to leave immediately. Either way, it’s an experience.
Sip on Sake
Tasting sake is an essential part of visiting Japan, so if you ever find yourself wondering what to do in Tokyo and you have exhausted your sightseeing options, drop by Dassai Bar 23. Dassai is one of the most popular sake brands in the country and this bar is the ideal spot to sample their offerings, from sparkling to nigori.
If it suits your palate, you can also shop for your favorite bottles to take home with you.
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Indulge Your Inner Bookworm in Jinbocho
Tokyo’s Jinbocho neighborhood is beloved by bibliophiles. There are nearly 200 second-hand bookstores in the area, as well as an annual book festival when booksellers set up stalls in the streets. All of this means you could spend hours browsing through dusty tomes and leafing through pre-loved paperbacks.
There are plenty of antique and rare collections to pore over, and if you get sick of books there are little curios shops dotted around the area as well.