Best Things To Do: Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is one of those rare cities that genuinely exceeds every expectation — a place where ancient temples sit in the shadow of neon-lit skyscrapers and a bowl of ramen can be a life-changing experience. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning for the fifth time, there is always something new to discover. Here is your complete guide to the best things to do in Tokyo, Japan.
Overview
Tokyo is Japan's capital and the world's most populous metropolitan area, home to roughly 14 million people within the city proper. It sits on Honshu Island and is divided into a patchwork of distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own personality — from the hipster cool of Shimokitazawa to the luxury boutiques of Ginza. The city blends ultramodern technology with deeply rooted tradition in a way that no other destination on earth quite manages. Spring cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and autumn foliage (November) are peak times to visit, though Tokyo rewards travellers year-round. The Japanese yen makes Tokyo surprisingly affordable for Western visitors at current exchange rates, and the city's public transport system is among the cleanest and most punctual in the world.
Top 10 Activities
- Explore Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa: Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple is free to enter and most magical at dawn before the crowds arrive. The surrounding Nakamise shopping street is perfect for picking up handmade crafts and traditional snacks.
- Wander Shibuya and Cross the Famous Scramble: Standing at the world's busiest pedestrian crossing is an unforgettable experience. Head to the Mag's Park rooftop at Shibuya 109 or the Starbucks overlooking the intersection for the best views.
- Visit the TeamLab Planets Digital Art Museum: Located in Toyosu, this immersive art installation is unlike anything else on the planet. Book tickets online in advance for around $30 USD to avoid sellouts.
- Spend a Day in Harajuku and Omotesando: Browse the wild youth fashion along Takeshita Street, then stroll the tree-lined Omotesando boulevard for high-end architecture and boutique cafes. Meiji Shrine is just steps away and completely free.
- Eat Your Way Through Tsukiji Outer Market: The inner wholesale market has moved to Toyosu, but the outer market still serves some of the freshest sushi, tamagoyaki and seafood skewers in the city. Budget around $15 to $25 USD for a generous breakfast here.
- Take the Train to Nikko or Kamakura for a Day Trip: Both destinations are within 90 minutes of central Tokyo. Nikko offers ornate mountain shrines while Kamakura is home to the iconic Great Buddha statue. A day trip will cost roughly $20 to $35 USD in rail fare.
- Explore Akihabara's Electric Town: Dedicated to gaming, anime and electronics, Akihabara is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Multi-floor arcade centres, retro game shops and themed cafes fill every building.
- Catch Sunset from the Tokyo Skytree: At 634 metres, this is one of the tallest structures in the world. Observation deck tickets start at around $18 USD and the views stretching to Mount Fuji on a clear day are extraordinary.
- Discover the Local Life of Yanaka: This quietly charming neighbourhood survived wartime bombing and offers an authentic glimpse of old Tokyo, with narrow streets, independent galleries and a beautiful cemetery popular with locals.
- Take a Sumo Tournament or Morning Practice Session: Honbasho tournaments run six times a year across Japan, with three held in Tokyo. If tournaments are not scheduled, some stables allow early morning practice visits — a rare and remarkable window into this ancient sport.
Practical Tips
- Purchase a Suica or Pasmo IC card at any major station for seamless travel on trains, subways and buses. It also works in many convenience stores.
- Cash is still king in many smaller restaurants and temples. Keep a supply of yen on hand.
- Tipping is not customary in Japan and can occasionally cause offence — simply say thank you instead.
- Most restaurants display plastic food models or photo menus outside, making ordering straightforward even without Japanese language skills.
- A three-day Tokyo Metro pass costs approximately $14 USD and is excellent value for city-focused sightseeing.
- Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart and Lawson serve genuinely excellent food and are open 24 hours — an underrated part of the Tokyo experience.
Getting There
Most international flights land at Narita International Airport (NRT), located about 60 kilometres from central Tokyo. The Narita Express (N'EX) connects the airport to Shinjuku and Shibuya stations in roughly 60 to 90 minutes and costs around $28 USD. Haneda Airport (HND) is closer to the city and increasingly serves international routes, with direct rail connections taking just 20 to 30 minutes. Airlines including Japan Airlines, ANA, United, Delta and British Airways operate direct routes to Tokyo from major hubs across North America, Europe and Australia.
Accommodation Options
Budget: Capsule hotels offer a uniquely Japanese experience from around $30 to $60 USD per night. Book Capsule and Sauna Dandy or Nine Hours in Shinjuku for clean, well-located options.
Plan your trip to Tokyo
Mid-Range: The Mitsui Garden Hotel chain delivers excellent quality and central locations for $120 to $200