Things to Do in Tokyo

Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is a city that’s rich in history, culture, and technology. With its blend of old and new, it’s a city that has something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you’re interested in exploring temples, shopping for the latest gadgets, or sampling some of the best cuisine in the world, Tokyo has it all. Here are some of the top things to do in Tokyo.

Things to Do in Tokyo

Akihabara

Akihabara is a neighborhood located in Tokyo that is famous for its electronic stores, anime and manga shops, arcades, and cosplay cafés. This area has become a mecca for tech enthusiasts, gamers, and otaku culture, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the latest technology and pop culture.

Harajuku

One of the main attractions of Harajuku is Takeshita Street, a pedestrian-only street lined with fashion boutiques, accessory shops, and crepe stands. This street is a hub of activity, especially on weekends, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese street fashion.

In addition to Takeshita Street, Harajuku is also home to a number of other shopping areas, including Omotesando, a high-end shopping street that is often referred to as the “Champs-Élysées of Tokyo.” Visitors can find everything from luxury brands to local Japanese designers in this area.

Meiji Shrine

The Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken. The shrine is located in the heart of a lush forest in the center of Tokyo and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. Visitors to the shrine can take a stroll through the forest, visit the main shrine buildings, and participate in traditional Shinto rituals.

Tokyo Tower

The Tokyo Tower is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Standing at 333 meters tall, the tower offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck, as well as a range of dining and shopping options.

Visitors to the Tokyo Tower can take an elevator to the main observation deck at 150 meters, or to the top deck at 250 meters for even more stunning views. In addition to the observation deck, the tower also houses several museums and exhibitions, making it a great destination for families and history buffs.

Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea

Located just outside of Tokyo, Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are two theme parks that offer visitors the chance to experience the magic of Disney and are a must-visit for families, children, and Disney fans of all ages.

Tokyo Disneyland is modeled after the original Disneyland in California and features classic Disney attractions such as Space Mountain, It’s a Small World, and Pirates of the Caribbean. In addition to these familiar favorites, Tokyo Disneyland also offers a range of unique attractions and experiences that can only be found in Japan.

DisneySea, on the other hand, is a unique and highly-themed park that offers a range of ocean-themed attractions, including the Journey to the Center of the Earth, the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, and the Mysterious Island.

Senso-ji Temple

The Senso-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the Asakusa neighborhood of Tokyo and is one of the oldest temples in the city. The temple is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Visitors to the temple can explore the main temple building, visit the surrounding stalls selling traditional Japanese goods, and participate in purification rituals.

Tokyo Skytree

At a height of 634 meters, Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in the world and offers stunning panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Visitors to the Tokyo Skytree can take an elevator to the main observation deck at 350 meters, or to the top deck at 450 meters for even more breathtaking views. There are also several restaurants and shops located in the tower, offering a range of dining and shopping options.

teamLab

teamLab is a digital art collective that creates immersive and interactive exhibitions using cutting-edge technology. The exhibitions feature a wide range of digital installations, including light installations, interactive drawings, and large-scale projections, and are designed to engage visitors in a unique and interactive way.

One of teamLab’s most famous exhibitions is teamLab Borderless, located in Odaiba, Tokyo. This massive 10,000 square meter exhibition features over 50 interactive digital installations that visitors can explore and interact with. The exhibition is designed to blur the boundaries between art and the physical world, creating a unique and immersive experience that is like nothing else in the world.

Another popular teamLab exhibition is teamLab Planets, located in Toyosu, Tokyo. This smaller-scale exhibition features a series of immersive digital installations that visitors can explore and interact with. The exhibitions range from interactive light installations to large-scale projections and are designed to engage visitors in a fun and playful way.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the heart of Tokyo. This large park features a variety of landscapes, including traditional Japanese gardens, English landscapes, and French formal gardens, and is a popular destination for picnics, hanami (cherry blossom viewing), and simply relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the park.

One of the main highlights of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is the Japanese Garden, which features a large pond, traditional tea houses, and meticulously maintained traditional Japanese landscapes. The English Landscape Garden is another popular area of the park, featuring large lawns, blooming flowers, and towering trees.

Imperial Palace Gardens

While the palace itself is not open to the public, visitors can explore the East Garden, which features beautiful gardens, walking paths, and historical buildings, including the ruins of the Edo Castle. The garden is open to the public and is a popular spot for picnics, hanami (cherry blossom viewing), and simply relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Ueno Park

Ueno Park is home to a number of important cultural institutions, including the Tokyo National Museum, the National Museum of Western Art, and the National Museum of Nature and Science.

In addition to the museums, Ueno Park is also famous for its beautiful cherry blossom trees and is a popular destination for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) during the spring months. The park features a large central pond, which is surrounded by cherry blossom trees and is a popular spot for picnics and hanami parties.

Getting Around Tokyo

Tokyo is a vast city, but it’s well-connected by an efficient public transportation system that makes getting around easy and convenient. Getting around Tokyo can be a bit overwhelming at first, but it’s actually quite easy once you know the basics. Here are some of the best ways to get around this sprawling city:

1. Train – The train system in Tokyo is one of the best in the world and is operated by several different companies. It’s a fast, efficient, and convenient way to get around the city, and you can use your prepaid Suica or Pasmo card to pay for your trips.
2. Subway – The subway system in Tokyo is extensive and covers much of the city, making it a great option for getting around quickly and easily.
3. Bus – Buses in Tokyo are a good option for getting to places that aren’t easily accessible by train or subway, and they offer a convenient way to get around and see the city.
4. Taxi – Taxis are abundant in Tokyo, but they can be quite expensive. However, if you need to get somewhere quickly or if you have a lot of luggage, a taxi can be a convenient option.
5. Bicycle – If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle and explore the city at your own pace. 
6. Walking – Tokyo is a large city, but many of the main tourist attractions are within walking distance of each other, so if you don’t mind walking, this can be a great way to get around.

Regardless of how you choose to get around Tokyo, be sure to download a navigation app to help you get around. And remember, if you get lost, don’t be afraid to ask for directions – the locals are generally friendly and helpful. 

These are just a few of the many things to do in Tokyo, and there’s something for everyone in this exciting city. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a fun and unique experience, Tokyo is a must-visit destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.