Dazzling all with its skyscrapers, city lights, ancient history and all things weird and wonderful; there are endless tourist attractions in Tokyo to delight your every sense!
Cue the zaniest museums you’ve come across (from ones that celebrate ramen to manga to institutes promoting a plethora of various art styles), and endless amusement parks, like the themed Ghibli Park.
Head to the capital city’s iconic areas like Shibuya Scramble and Harajuku, where kawaii culture reigns supreme!
The amalgamation of different architectural styles, from old to new, is mesmerizing, with a mixture of high-rise buildings, historical shrines, significant temples and neighborhoods that retain all of the Edo-centric charm (the name of Tokyo back in the day).
Sweep in city views from towering structures, and lap up the dining vistas from restaurants within the same locales. Enjoy loads of entertainment, especially the traditional kind, like samurai experiences, geisha shows and visiting sumo arenas.
Lest we forget about the shopping — tenfold in Tokyo — from streets dedicated to electronics to anime to kitchen utensils! There are even tax-free shopping outlets to go mad at.
Here are 74 of the best attractions not to be missed on your Tokyo Bucket List. You’ll never want to leave.
1 – Tokyo Skytree
For the best views over all of Japan’s capital, fly 450 meters above ground zero (in a glass elevator) to the top of the highest skyscraper, Tokyo Skytree. Then look out, up and down as the city bustles below your feet from way up high.
Designed as a 450-floor broadcasting tower, it’s officially the country’s tallest building at 634 meters high.
Arriving at the structure, head to the fourth floor first to purchase tickets and peek at the SKYTREE GALLERY to become clued up on the building’s trivia and fact sheets. Then, the excitement really begins!
Jump out on level 350, where the first viewpoint is; TOKYO SKYTREE Tembo Deck. Next, zoot up to floor 445, where you can grab a tea from the cafe and find the entrance point for the Tembo Galleria.
Following a glass tube walkway, eventually, land on level 450 — the highest point visitors can explore. The panorama vistas are astounding!
Also within the Tokyo Skytree building is a shopping complex and an indoor aquarium, both within the basement levels. Or couples, book dinner at Sky Restaurant 634 on level 345.
2 – Meiji Jingu
Interesting history fact: The Meiji period lasted from 1868 to 1912 and was a pivotal revolutionary moment for the country, setting the foundations for the modern Japan we know today.
Led by Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken, upon their passing, Meiji Jingu was erected in their honor and was completed in 1920.
Chosen for the Shinto shrine (Shinto is the country’s oldest religion) was a 70-hectare piece of land with a man-made forest in toll.
The shrine took a beating during WWII, but thanks to the local communities, it was restored to its former glory. Today, the sanctuary overflows with visitors from near and far and is among Japan’s top shrines most frequented.
One of the most popular spaces here for photo-happy tourists is a wall lined with all sorts of sake bottles on the road leading to the sanctum, laid here as offerings.
Meander through the Inner Garden, where azaleas bloom in spring and Japanese maples change color in autumn, and stop by the Meiji Jingu Museum (open since 2019) to marvel over displays of personal items and artifacts of the Emperor and Empress.
3 – Ghibli Museum
As the birthplace of Studio Ghibli is Tokyo, mega fans fall head over heels for its world of Japanese animation at the Ghibli Museum.
Celebrating all of your favorite characters and storylines, the soft rainbow-colored building and Totoro peeping through the window front is the most fantastic entrance into the museum, already sending tingles down your spine!
Stepping inside, it’s a celebration of all things Ghibli, from the stained glass windows decorated with Ghibli characters to the different spaces invoking anime fantasies.
Every inch of the museum is thoughtfully designed. Look up at the fresco-painted ceiling at The Space of Wonder and grab a ticket made from 35mm film (in the light, each negative is a different scene from one of the movies).
Walking around the Central Hall with its spiral staircases, glass dome, bridged passages and overhanging terraces transports you into the mind of co-founder Hayao Miyazaki.
There are plenty of other magical spaces, rooms and corners to explore, like A Boy’s Room, The Reading Room, the Cat Bus, Saturn Theater (screening an original short animation produced for the museum only), the ‘Old-Fashioned Hand-Pump Well’ on the patio and Castle in the Sky’s Robot Soldier on the rooftop.
See also: Ghibli Museum Last Minute Tickets
4 – Sanrio Puroland
Cinnamoroll, Gudetama, My Melody and of course, Hello Kitty, come and play with your favorite Sanrio friends at Sanrio Puroland.
Around since 1990, the indoor amusement park is also nicknamed “Hello Kitty Land.” Spread out across four floors of cutesy kawaii and pink pastel dreams; the first two levels are the major attractions.
Surrounding the central Wisdom Tree on level one is the Märchen Theatre, Entertainment Hall, Fairyland Theatre, Discovery Theatre, My Melody and Kuromi – Mymeroad Drive, Strawberry Hall, the Character Food Hall and even a mini photo plant.
Level two comprises the Sanrio Character Boat Ride, the Kiki & Lala Twinkling Studio, Lady Kitty House and Shop, plus the individual Games and Portrait Corners. The remaining two floors are where the bulk of the shops and eateries are.
Don’t miss out on the musical show, Momotarō by the Hello Kitty Troupe, and grab a selfie with a Sanrio character strolling through the cartooned playground.
5 – Sensō-ji
To understand the cultural and spiritual significance of Tokyo’s most antiquated temple, let’s travel back in time to the year 628.
Two men are fishing on the Sumida River in the first capital of Japan (Asuka) when they notice a statue in their net. Heading back to their village, the head clansman Haji no Nakatomo, recognized the figurine as the statue of Kannon — the bodhisattva of mercy.
From then onwards, he dedicated his life to Buddhism, converting his own home into the Sensō-ji temple. Years later, a priest arrived at the site and built a hall for the statue.
Arrive to pay your respects, spend time in quiet meditation and survey the various areas within.
The Main Hall (Kannondo Hall) houses the Bodhisattva Kanno in the middle of the inner sanctum (known as the naijin); there are eight Buddhas inside the Yogodo Hall; and the other two halls (Awashimado Hall and Bentendo Hall) both safeguard deities.
There are three impressive Gates to scope: Niten-mon, Hozo-mon and Kaminari-mon; a five-storied pagoda to photograph, the traditional Denboin with its Japanese Garden, and the temple even has its very own Nakamise Shopping Street where you can shop for souvenirs, food and other goodies.
6 – teamLab Planets TOKYO
Japan is one of the world’s top 10 most modernized cities and is the perfect destination for tech fundis and kids of the Digital Age.
Incorporating immersive artworks using light installations, hi-tech projections and digitized features, be wholly transported into dizzying realms of art and color at teamLab Planets TOKYO.
Focusing on three major themes (‘Water,’ ‘Garden’ and ‘Public’), the 10,000 square-meter interactive gallery is designed with nine installations to get lost in — and take about a million photographs within — and is split between four exhibition areas and two gardens.
Tantalizing all of your senses, take off your shoes and immerse yourselves into a world of wonder amid hanging floral gardens, glittering mirror rooms and floors with illusions of walking on water.
Teasers of some of the installations to find here are an ‘Infinite Crystal Universe,’ the ‘Soft Black Hole,’ a ‘Waterfall of Light Particles at the top of an Incline,’ a ‘Moss Garden of Resonating Microcosms’ and a ‘Universe of Fire Particles falling from the Sky’ — sounds insanely riveting, right?
7 – Mori Art Museum
Highlighting the very best of contemporary Japanese art, architecture and design, as well as saluting other international artists from the wider Asia-Pacific regions, Mori Art Museum is a fabulous gallery for art aficionados.
Founded in 2003, even if you’ve visited the museum 20 times before, always uncover something new from its ever-changing exhibitions of acclaimed and up-and-coming artists.
Housing a total collection of more than 460 works across categories; this includes painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, mixed media, videos and installations. As a modernized institution, also discover art related to anime, manga, film and fashion.
A few notable artists who have showcased their talents here are sculptor and installation artist Tatsuo Miyajima, conceptual artist Joseph Kosuth, contemporary Chinese artist Ai Weiwei, mixed media guru Mika Tajima, French painter Mika Tajima and Cambodian contemporary artist Sopheap Pich.
Located on the 52nd floor of the Mori Tower, once finished at the gallery, take advantage of the 360-degree city views from the observation deck here.
8 – Imperial Palace
Traverse in the footsteps of emperors, empresses, shogunates and Japanese royalty at the Imperial Palace, a sacred site for more than 500 years. It’s one of the most famous tourist attractions in Tokyo.
Still the official residence of the Imperial Family (since 1869), the palace complex sits on the site of the former Edo Castle dating to 1457. After the Edo Era ended, the imperial residence shifted from Kyoto to Tokyo. By 1888, the old castle was torn down and a new palace was reconstructed.
(Unfortunately, demolished in World War II, a new replica model was rebuilt and is the palace we see today.)
Perched on a stone wall, the inner grounds where the family resides are closed off to the public (opening on certain occasions a few times a year), but you can investigate the other parts that make up the royal complex.
During a tour, certain parts are still open to visitors but a few can only be viewed from its facade. Highlights to see are the Someikan (the Visitor’s House), Hasuikebori (Lotus Moat), Fujimitamon Defence-house, Kunaicho Chosha, Kyuden Totai Plaza and Seimon-tetsu-bashi Bridge.
Adjoined to the palace complex are the East Gardens and these are accessible to the public all year round.
9 – Legoland Tokyo
Create your own character or creature, dive into a pit of Duplo Blocks, pretend to be an engineer and simply just enjoy the simplicities of all things Lego at the epic LEGOLAND Discovery Center Tokyo.
Whether five, fifteen or fifty years old, the nostalgia never wears off, and the fun is unending, with plenty of activities for all ages.
Created with over 1.6 million Lego® blocks, Miniland is a recreation of Tokyo’s most famous landmarks and buildings. Travel back to medieval times at Kingdom Quest, explore the world of Japanese warriors at the Lego Ninjago City Adventure zone and conjure up magic at the Merlin Apprentice area.
Tots especially love the Duplo Village decked out in the soft jumbo blocks, and other hands-on zones include the Lego Racers Build & Test Zone and the City Builders where you can construct your own legolands.
Learn how these colorful plastic bricks are manufactured at the Lego Factory or join a Creative Workshop.
Discover a 4D cinema, plus there’s a themed cafeteria and restaurant if you’re feeling peckish after all the playtime.
10 – Kameido Tenjin Shrine
Douseled in weeping wisterias and enshrouded in plum trees, Kameido Tenjij Shrine epitomizes the typical Japanese scenery you’ve been envisioning — in the midst of the modern city!
Located in one of Tokyo’s traditional wards, the area retains centuries-old charm, fitting for the shrine with its origins dating to 1661.
Exalting the Japanese poet and scholar Sugawara no Michizane (born in 845 CE), today, he is seen as the Shinto god of learning and studies. Consequently, dozens visit the temple to pray to the deity, especially students before exam periods.
Often referred to as “Kameido Tenmangu Shrine,” the grounds are as picturesque as ever, boasting traditional elements like its ornate red-arched bridge crossing a pond. At night, the setting is lit up, and the 15 trellises with 50 wisteria trees drooping from their wooden arms is an incredibly romantic moment!
If you’re here in the suitable months, don’t miss the annual Plum Festival in February nor the October Chrysanthemum Festival.
11 – National Museum of Modern Art
Spread out across four levels and in ownership of over 13,000 pieces, get lost in a world of Japanese and Western Art at the National Museum of Modern Art (MOMAT) — the city’s first-ever contemporary art gallery.
Just surpassing its 70th year since opening its doors, the museum’s collection comprises paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs, videos, prints, calligraphy and other relatable items curated from Japanese and international artists from the end of the 19th century until today.
Among these is the MOMAT’s exceptional accumulation of 18 of Japan’s Important Cultural Properties. These include 12 Japanese-style paintings known as Nihon-ga, five oil paintings and one sculptural piece.
Other noteworthy arty assets belonging to MOMAT are 600 works by Ryūsei Kishida, 3,000 drawings belonging to sculptor and artist Wakabayashi Isamu, and 153 paintings relating to the Sino-Japanese War and the Pacific War.
Highlighting approximately 200 pieces from its collection at any given time, the gallery sets up rotating exhibitions five times a year to display these, spaced across 13 rooms.
12 – Candlelight concerts
Music has the power to move us in more ways than one. Swap the sightseeing for melodies and hit up one of these dreamy candlelight concerts.
Performed by a string quartet or pianist, these special tribute shows are far from ordinary. Unlike a typical concert, this version not only takes place inside a unique venue but the entire setting is decorated in soft, glowing light from hundreds of candles all around the room.
Showcasing globally, here are the ones available in Tokyo.
At Oiji Hall listen to the sounds of Ennio Morricone, Ryuichi Sakamoto or Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, and at the Mitsukoshi Theater, enjoy an ode to Joe Hisaishi.
From Queen to the best of the Beatles to Ed Sheeran, book your seat inside the Lutheran Ichigaya Center.
Other candlelight concerts at this venue include the music of Bach’s St. Matthew Passion, more dedicated to Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and Joe Hisaishi, as well as a goosebump-inducing ‘Rings & Dragons’ performance celebrating the music from The Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones, The Hobbit and more.
13 – Tokyo Tower
Nicknamed the “Eiffel Tower of Tokyo,” upon closer inspection of the Tokyo Tower, it’s easy to spot the similarities between the two structures.
Built in 1958 and standing 333 meters tall, the steel structure was similarly remodeled after its inspiration. It even lights up at night in a dance of soft, warm lights, and just like the Eiffel, there are multiple observation platforms to take in the vistas.
At its time of opening, it was Tokyo’s highest construction, and it’s also a broadcast antenna.
Arriving at the tower, reach two viewing decks via elevators, escalators or staircases, located from the Foot Town levels (set up across six floors from the bottom up. Here are a handful of shops, restaurants and an e-sports entertainment complex.).
First, head up to the Main Deck built 150 meters above the ground. Drink in the views from the all-round floor-to-ceiling windows, and parts of the floor are cut out and covered in glass — so do look down! There’s a cafe on this floor too.
From the Main Deck, ride the escalators, traveling to the Top Deck. Standing 250 meters high, take advantage of the panoramas from this angle, offering plenty of fabulous photo ops! You can even spot Mount Fuji in the distance.
14 – Madame Tussauds
MJ, Steven Spielberg, King Kazu, Angelina Jolie, Leonardo Di Vinci, Kusama Yayoi, Barack Obama… Get up close and personal with your favorite celebs, sports heroes, political idols, inventors, musicians and more at Madame Tussauds.
Established in 1835, the famous wax museum opened its Japanese doors in Tokyo circa 2013 and now houses a collection of more than 70 VIPs.
The realistic human artworks are spaced into various zones containing music, film, celebrities, fashion, sports, history and culture and leaders from around Japan and the rest of the world.
Pose for a selfie, and this gallery is designed to incorporate interactive features at each figurine or zone. For example, sing and dance with the rich and famous at the 3D hologram theater or try out cosplay!
15 – Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Like a snapshot from a Japanese dream (or anime flick), the gorgeous Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden was once a residence belonging to a revered Japanese samurai, then landed in the laps of the Imperial management before opening to the public in 1949.
Cue the giant cherry blossoms, traditional pavilions, a large pond in the center of the park, leaves changing hues of red and orange with the seasons and pretty wooden bridge crossings.
Landscaped over 58.3 hectares, picnic under its 10,000 or so trees — some of which are the first species to land on Japanese soil, such as Himalayan cedars and bald cypresses. There is also a designated running trail for joggers and exercise enthusiasts.
More distinctive plants to see are the garden’s collection of chrysanthemums and tulips, and in the Sakura Season (between March and April), the grounds become a flurry of white and pink petals.
Forever changing with Mother Nature, there is always something new to marvel over.
16 – Tokyo Disneyland
Come and play with all your favorite Disney characters, feel the thrills and experience all of the nostalgia at Tokyo Disneyland.
One of six official global Disneylands, the Tokyo locale was the first of the theme park chains to open outside of the USA in 1983.
Uncover seven magical lands: World Bazaar, Adventureland, Westernland, Critter Country, Fantasyland, Toontown and Tomorrowland.
Ride the mining train on Big Thunder Mountain, make it through the Haunted Mansion, meet Captain Jack Sparrow at the Pirates of the Caribbean ship, drop down a 16-meter-high waterfall on Splash Mountain and test your aim at the Westernland Shootin’ Gallery.
Arriving with the little ones? They’ll love the attractions like the Jungle Cruise, Alice’s Tea Party, Castle Carrousel, Gadget’s Go Coaster, Pooh’s Hunny Hunt, Cinderella’s Fairy Tale Hall and plenty of other Disney-themed rides.
Daily shows and parades are the perfect places to sing, dance and meet personalities like Tinkerbell, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and, of course, Mickey!
See also: Cheap Disneyland Tokyo Tickets
17 – Tokyo Disneysea
Swapping land for seas (and other water bodies), Tokyo DisneySea is also part of the Disneyland Resort in Tokyo. Simply catch a short 10-minute train ride from Disneyland to DisneySea.
Revolving around water, arrive with your bathing suit close on hand as the rides and attractions all involve getting wet in some shape or form.
Split into seven fantastical lands, enjoy hours of endless fun splishing and splashing about.
Float on the Venetian Gondolas or the DisneySea Transit Steamer Line at the Mediterranean Harbor; ride the Tower of Terror (if you dare) at the American Waterfront; and say hi to Dory and the gang at the Nemo & Friends SeaRider at the Port Discovery zone.
Try out the Indiana Jones® Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull within the Lost River Delta; board Jasmine’s Flying Carpets at the Arabian Coast; experience life under the sea at the Mermaid Lagoon; and explore a Journey to the Center of the Earth at the Mysterious Island land.
18 – Tokyo National Museum
Tokyo is one of those cities where design in all shapes and forms — from art to technology — reigns supreme. You could spend hours milling over all the various museums in this department, like the Tokyo National Museum.
Gathering Japanese art and antiquities and pieces from other parts of Asia, this gallery is home to a crazy 100,000 items, from paintings to weaponry!
Founded in 1872, it’s had plenty of time to build its collection since and still houses one of the country’s largest. So big, in fact, six separate buildings within the complex make up the Tokyo National Museum.
The oldest is the Hyokeikan, where its temporary expos are set up. The main building is the Honkan displaying Buddha statues, traditional sliding doors, scrolls, ceramics and maps; and the Toyokan building is where the Asian art and artifacts galleries are.
For exhibitions relating to ancient Japanese culture, enter the Heiseikan building; the Horyuji Homotsukan (also called the Gallery of Horyuji Treasures) contains religious objects; and the Kuroda Memorial Hall is dedicated to the artist after it was named: Kuroda Seiki.
19 – Asakusa
Ever tried to imagine what Tokyo must have looked like 200 years ago, before the influence of modernity and technology? Referred to as the city’s “old town,” Asakusa exudes all the traditional Japanese feels.
Dubbed Tokyo’s “shitamachi” (translating to “lower city”) back in its heyday, the area is where the working class would gather and socialize at the entertainment hubs, varying over the years.
During the Edo Period, dozens of kabuki theaters lined the streets, and in the early 1900s, movie theaters shot up all around.
Sitting on the banks alongside the Sumida River, now this central part of shitamachi mainly revolves around the famous Sensō-ji shrine and its Nakamise shopping street.
Two of the most authentic ways to sightsee Asakusa are on land via a rickshaw tour or on the river during a boat cruise. Situated in this part of Tokyo are Sumida Park and Hanayashiki, the city’s oldest theme park.
20 – National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation
Does the world of science completely fascinate you? Bend your brains and learn something new at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation.
This museum is a fantastic place to begin in a city that strives for innovation of all varying degrees. Commonly known as Miraikan, its focus is on all things tech-driven, as well as expanding visitors’ knowledge of space, life sciences and our global environment.
Set up across seven floors, there are four permanent exhibition spaces here.
Dispersed between the first, third and fifth levels, the main feature of the ‘Discover your Earth’ exhibit is the LED-paneled globe-like display.
Highlights from the ‘Create your future’ gallery (on the third floor) include robots, a hands-on model of the Internet, and inventive and interactive games.
On the fifth floor is the ‘Explore the Frontiers’ permanent expo, deep-diving into universes of space, solar systems and Earth.
The museum’s radical Dome Theater GAIA shows multiple short documentaries and films, completely transporting viewers into alternative worlds as you watch the screening above and all around you, submerged by the digital and audio.
21 – Nezu Museum
Traveling back in time from modern Japan we know today, the Nezu Museum celebrates Japanese and East Asian art from periods a few centuries before — predominantly the 17th, 18th and 19th.
Named after Nezu Kaichirō, the gallery was born out of the businessman’s personal collections. However, it wasn’t until his passing that his acquisitions opened to the public — which had always been his intention.
Developed by his son, he set up a foundation in his father’s honor, and in 1941 the Nezu Museum was established.
The original collection has grown from some 4,642 works to around 7,400 treasures. The museum’s most prized possessions include seven National Treasures, 94 Important Art Objects and 88 Important Cultural Properties.
Admire paintings, sculptures, ceramics, lacquerware, calligraphy, metalwork, wood and bamboo crafts, textiles, armor and even archaeological specimens.
22 – Art Aquarium Museum
Fill your social media pages with dozens of zany pictures snapped inside the unique Art Aquarium Museum, unlike any of the tourist attractions in Tokyo — or the world, for that matter!
So what is it that sets this gallery apart? Decorating the walls, floors and other open spaces are one-of-a-kind displays of all shapes, sizes and designs, lit up in colorful neon lights and moving projections, and filled with… goldfish!
While it may seem random to tourists, goldfish have been highly prized in Japan since the 1500s when they first arrived from China. Back then, they were reserved as gifts for the imperials and samurai, symbolizing wealth and good health.
From Wakin to Tamasaba to Orandas, scope out the varying species imaginatively set up in 15 different areas. Spot the Goldfish Waterfall, stroll down the Goldfish Corridor, marvel over the Goldfish Cabinet and lap up the calming ambiance of the Goldfish Bamboo Forest.
Standout artworks to keep your eyes peeled for are the Origamirium, the Mask Collection, the Ginza Mantoro space and the Shojirium.
23 – Bus tours
Travelers with limited time or tourists that need to give their feet a break from all the city traversing join a bus tour onboard a double-decker hop-on hop-off sightseeing vehicle.
All around the city are designated hop-on hop-off bus stops, allowing you the freedom to disembark and then reboard the bus at your leisure, set up at Tokyo’s top landmarks and most prized attractions.
You can also purchase a one or two-day ticket pass, and there are various routes that the bus travels. If you don’t feel like jumping off the bus, stay onboard and enjoy drive-bys as the route circles back to its starting point. The journey is between one and 1.5 hours.
The red line passes by TOKYO SKYTREE and the Marunouchi Mitsubishi Building, the green line veers past Shinjuku and Shibuya, and the blue line bus stops at the likes of the Tokyo Tower and Zojo-ji Temple.
24 – National Museum of Nature and Science
There’s a reason why you picked Japan as a travel destination, so why not brush up on your knowledge of the country at the National Museum of Nature and Science?
Super extensive; it sheds light on Japan’s typography, landscapes and natural makeup, chronicling thousands of years, but there is also a section dedicated to global natural sciences and geology.
It feels very much like your typical history museum, with life-size dinosaur skeletons hanging from the rooftops, fossils on display and extinct specimens comprising parts of its collections.
On the local front, the permanent Japanese Galleries are laid across floors one, two and three. On the first level is the ‘Techniques in Observing Nature’ expo focusing on the Japanese Islands’ earliest formations in nature.
Locate the ‘Japanese People and Nature’ and the ‘Organisms of the Japanese Islands’ exhibitions on the second floor. The third floor houses the ‘History of the Japanese Islands’ and the ‘Nature of the Japanese Islands’ displays.
The basement levels and floors one to three contain the Global Gallery’s permanent collections. These include ‘Animal of the Earth,’ ‘Progress in Science and Technology,’ ‘Biodiversity – We are All Part of the Same Ecosystem,’ ‘Navigators on the History of Earth,’ ‘Evolution of Life -Exploring the Mysteries of Dinosaur Evolution’ and many other exciting exhibits.
25 – Hamarikyu Gardens
Smack bang in the middle of the metropolis and at the mouth of the Sumida River, gander over gorgeous Yoshino cherry trees in spring; yellow cosmos, Iris, trumpet flowers and hydrangeas in summer; hibiscus in autumn, and peonies and Japanese Camellia in wintertime.
No matter the season, something new is always in bloom and flourishing within this urban park space.
Dating to the Edo period, the grounds originally belonged to the Tokugawa shogunate, who built an imperial residence, were handled as a Tokugawa Navy training ground, converted into a state guest house during the Meiji Reformation and finally opened as a public garden in 1946.
In the center of the park is the star of the show, a tidal inlet pond where seawater flows in and out of the waterway with the coming tides. In the middle of this is a traditional Nakajima teahouse.
Stroll through the gardens, enjoy a tea ceremony and revel in a moment of zen under tall plum trees.
Sakuras bloom throughout springtime too, and the crowds draw in for the occasion.
26 – Mount Fuji excursion
Fuji-san, Fujiyama, or just Mount Fuji… Whatever you know Japan’s highest mountain as, she’s waiting for you in all of her glory just 100 kilometers outside of Tokyo, soaring toward the heavens at 3,776 meters tall.
Visiting the dormant volcano during a day trip excursion is highly favored by those vacationing in the capital city. Tokyo’s bullet train runs all the way here in under two hours.
Respected by locals as a spiritual pilgrimage site, the cultural icon is believed to be over two million years old!
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, the peak is located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
If you want to glimpse her snow-laden peaks, the best time to journey here is in winter. However, the only time to explore Mount Fuji on foot is in summer when the mountain’s trails open — it remains closed for safety reasons the rest of the year.
There is plenty to see around the area, from local villages to icy lakes.
27 – Hachikō Memorial Statue
There’s the sweetest yet somewhat heartbreaking tale behind the Hachikō Memorial Statue, erected in honor of man’s most loyal best friend, in this case, one named Hachikō.
The story circles back to the 1920s and is about an Akita dog and his owner.
Every day, Hachikō would make his way to the Shibuya Station and await his owner’s return on the train. But one day, the professor did not arrive at the station after unexpectedly passing away.
Hachikō returned to the same spot for nearly 10 years every single day in the hopes of his owner’s return… Any animal lover can’t hear the tale and not wipe away a tear from their eye.
There has even been a movie made about the story, Hachikō Monogatari, released in 1987.
The bronze memorial statue was constructed in Shibuya, near the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing to honor the pooch. Pose for a picture next to Japan’s most loved dogo and then adventure around the area.
28 – Kabukicho
Glowing bars, late-night eateries, pachinko parlors and nightclubs bopping with cosplay girls; Kabukichō may be one of Tokyo’s “red light” entertainment districts, but that’s not to say the area isn’t an interesting (and intriguing) one to explore.
Found within the iconic Shinjuku district, this part of the city dazzles tourists with its highrise buildings, flashing neon lights, shopping and party scene.
Kabukichō’s Golden Gai is a hot spot for drinks and socializing, with bars and people spilling out onto its small alleyways. The drinking holes usually open in the evenings, closing when the sun rises!
(Bar hopping adventures around Golden Gai are mega popular.)
Other things to do and see in the district are Kabukicho Red Noren Gai (a small street filled with izakayas), the Godzilla head on top of TOHO Cinema, Kinokuniya Bookstore — one of the biggest in Japan — and Hanazono Shrine (a Shinto shrine founded in the 17th century).
29 – Tokyo Dome City
You could allocate an entire day just to visiting all of Tokyo’s epic theme parks, including the one at Tokyo Dome City. The Tokyo Dome City Attractions amusement park forms part of the Tokyo Dome City entertainment complex.
Sing karaoke with friends as you spin around on the Big O ferris wheel (eight of the gondolas are specially set up for the activity); reach speeds of up to 130 kilometers per hour on the Thunder Dolphin roller coaster, whizzing through the center of the Big O; and escape the monsters lurking inside the Haunted House “ONRYOU ZASHIKI.”
Tokyo Dome stadium is also located within Tokyo Dome City and is officially Japan’s largest covered baseball arena. Home of the Yomiuri Giants, other sports matches and concerts occur here too.
With its Tokyo Dome Hotel and Spa LaQua, enjoy some downtime afterward. There are also a bunch of restaurants and over 50 stores to shop at.
30 – National Art Center
From the artworks showcasing inside to the striking wave-shaped glass walls spanning the National Art Center’s exterior, let your creative juices come alive at one the country’s largest exhibition spaces.
Every detail was painstakingly thought of when creating the arts center — established in 2007 — and the overall environment compliments the gallery’s vision of founding “an Art Center surrounded by green spaces.”
No permanent collections are displayed here; the center’s mission is to highlight 21st-century artists and different forms of artistic expression through ever-changing exhibitions.
Totaling 14,000 square meters, the expos and art shows are set up within 12 rooms.
Pop into the Art Library on the third floor, and when there are exhibitions on, the library hosts additional reading materials relative to the showcase and its creator.
31 – Shibuya Crossing
Big bright, colorful lights, swarms of tourists, digitized billboards and signage sprawled in Japanese, Shibuya Crossing is that iconic image you see of Tokyo so often in travel ads of the capital city.
Looking down at the bustling pedestrian intersection from a drone’s perspective; this crossing outlines a square, with one extra zigzagging white line intersecting through the middle.
Every 80 seconds, vehicles stop and walkers scramble across in all directions — hence, its nickname, Shibuya Scramble.
A popular area for shopping (especially for electronics), eating out, people-watching and enjoying a night out on the town, there are plenty of bars, restaurants and entertainment hubs surrounding the intersection.
Pub crawls in Tokyo are a fun and authentic way to become familiar with Shibuya and last around three hours.
The roads right by the crossing are known as Shibuya Center-Gai and Shibuya 109 is here too (a tax-free department store), with youthful crowds flooding both. Famous Harajuku forms part of the Shibuya ward.
32 – Ueno Park
Picture this: As winter sheds her skin and the softness of spring breaks through, 1,200 cherry blossoms open up their delicate petals in all shades of pastel pinks and whites at Ueno Park — one of the country’s most famous spots for sakura-gazing!
Blooming from March to April, the 54-hectare garden heaves with visitors in this period, itching to witness the spectacle — and take millions of photographs! Planted here are different sakura types, ensuring an extended blooming period.
Located in Tokyo’s “shitamachi” district, the park was established in 1873! It’s not just its cherry blossoms that attract attention but also the dozens of other floral varieties blooming inside. For example, lotus flowers on the Shinobazu Pond open up toward the end of July, and azaleas pop up in early spring.
Other exotic plants to see are ginkgo, camphor and zelkova.
Explore the grounds via a dedicated walking trail, or check out the institutions located in the park. These include the Tokyo Culture Hall (Tokyo Bunka Kaikan), the National Museum of Western Art, the National Museum of Nature and Science, the Tokyo National Museum, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, the Ueno Royal Museum and the Statue of Saigo Takamori.
33 – Bike tours
Japan is an exquisite country with endless landscapes and landmarks to take your breath away. If you only plan to spend a few days in its capital, a bike tour is a smart time-saver and a convenient way to explore Tokyo!
Offered as half-day (ranging from three to five hours) or full-day stints on either a traditional bicycle or an e-bike — for travelers not keen on peddling — take your pick from various biking excursions.
A typical full-day itinerary covers Tokyo’s top highlights, clocking in roughly 18 kilometers. Veer past sites like the Imperial Palace, Ginza shopping district and Tsukiji Outer Market.
Certain tours adventure around a specific area or district, for example, downtown Tokyo or further out of the city in the countryside.
Specialized bike tours, such as a cycling and food tour, are available, combined with a local lunch at a neighborhood eatery.
34 – Nakamise Shopping Street
A shopping street inside a temple? Only in Tokyo! It’s hard to mention the Asakusa area and not think of Nakamise Shopping Street, set up within the Sensō-ji Shrine.
It is a real street — that happens to run through the sacred grounds — and approximately 89 shops dot the curbsides between the temple’s two main gates (one on the south side, the other on the north end).
Seemingly random? Think again, and locals have gathered here for shopping rounds since the late 17th century!
Extending 250 meters in total; shop for all sorts of traditional Japanese souvenirs, crafts, clothing, accessories, toys and more, and the shopping locale is famed for its specialty snacks and street food!
Ningyo-yaki (small baked cakes in cute shapes and figurines), yokan (a confectionery made from red bean paste), kaminari-okoshi (rice crackers) and kibi dango (sweet millet dumplings) are a few must-try snacks.
35 – Yasukuni Shrine
Commemorating the lives of nearly 2.5 million souls who died in wartime battles, Yasukuni Shrine is a historical Shinto shrine, housing the glorified deities who fought in the Boshin War, the Seinan War (also known as the Satsuma Rebellion), the Sino-Japanese War, the Russo-Japanese War, both World Wars, the Mukden Incident and the Marco Polo Bridge Incident.
Considered a controversial site by some locals, in 1978, 14 Japanese Class A warlord criminals of WWII were also enshrined here. Others feel that Yasukuni is a celebration of Japan’s war-trodden eras — a time the now-peaceful country has strived to move past.
Founded in 1869 under Emperor Meiji, inscribed as written records are the names of the lost lives, and families of the deceased are often seen making offerings and rituals.
Also here is the Yushukan Museum. Oddly so, the building was designed by an Italian architect inspired by Italy’s medieval castles and has welcomed public visitors since 1882.
Its displays feature artifacts, memorabilia, artillery and actual warplanes from the different battles throughout the decades.
36 – Gotokuji Temple
If you’ve ever walked into a Chinese takeaway restaurant or Asian grocer, chances are you’ve seen a waving maneki-neko cat.
Fun fact, contrary to popular assumptions, these symbolic felines aren’t Chinese and are, in fact, Japanese. It’s believed they originated from the Gotokuji Temple here in Japan!
These beckoning cats symbolize good fortune, bringing prosperity and luck to their owners. Arriving at the temple, be greeted by hundreds of white and red-statued felines decorating the entrance walls and other parts!
Erected as a three-story pagoda in the 17th century, it’s one of Tokyo’s few holy spiritual sites escaping demolitions or damage during wartime.
So why all the cats? According to the storybooks, during the Edo reign, a feudal lord from Hikone was caught in a major thunderstorm. In the distance, he noticed a cat who appeared to be waving to the lord. Mesmerized, he followed the feline, ultimately leading him to dry safety. In the exact spot, the lord constructed a family temple — the same one that Gotokuji is built upon.
Behind the temple is a significant cemetery where many important Japanese figures have been laid to rest, from prime ministers to the karate guru, Masutatsu Ōyama.
37 – Tsukiji Outer Market
Foodies, find yourself in heaven at the Tsukiji Outer Market — a destination never missed during food tours in Tokyo.
Also known as Tsukiji Jōgai Shijō (築地場外市場) or the Tsukiji Fish Market, this hotspot is the place to shop for all things fresh and seasonal, particularly seafood, as well as meals prepared on the spot, and even kitchen utensils!
Once frequented by mainly hospitality professionals, its wholesale market vibe has altered with the years. Now, locals and tourists alike visit the market, its retail stalls and makeshift restaurants.
Buy cuts of the freshest catch of the day, shellfish and other seafood, and stock up on traditional Japanese goods and delicacies (referred to as “chinmi”), tsukemono, i.e., Japanese pickles, preserved foods, seasonings, dried bonito flakes, cereals, green teas, snacks and sweets.
Arrive hungry and head to the rows of restaurants where you can enjoy breakfast sushi, tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet), nerimono (cooked foods made from ground seafood), a bowl of ramen and other mouth-watering bites!
Don’t miss out on this one during your walking tours in Tokyo.
38 – Go-kart tours
Tokyo is the type of city where the seemingly impossible comes to life. Dress up like your favorite Mario Brother and prepare for one of Tokyo’s fun and laugh-a-minute go-kart tours!
Forget about zooting around a track; in this city, you actually tour the streets of Tokyo in a real go-kart!
(Not to fear if you aren’t so keen on the idea of dressing up as cartoon versions, you can simply take a tour without the costumes.)
Choose between a one or two-hour sightseeing expedition, cruising around Shinjuku’s metropolitan area, Harajuku and even the famous Shibuya Crossing. Other tour operators take you around the streets of Akihabara.
To avoid disappointment, if you prefer a specific route, check with your operator beforehand, and a valid international driver’s license is required to drive the karts.
39 – Sumida Aquarium
Set up across two floors inside the iconic TOKYO SKYTREE building (on levels five and six), meet cute penguins, illuminating jellyfish and other creatures of the ocean at Sumida Aquarium.
Utilizing artificial seawater in all of its tanks, Sumida is only one of two aquariums in Japan that employ this system.
Three outlined routes link both floors of the marine exhibit, and the glassed tanks and open-air displays are spread throughout the floor plans. Sit in front of the tanks arraying in shape and size, taking a moment to appreciate our marine species.
On the fifth level (or the aquarium’s first floor), find the fur seals and the fur seal tunnel, the Edorium, the penguins and the Water’s Blessing Ogasawara Tank (from here is a ramp leading to the sixth floor).
Discover the Jellyfish displays, Coral Reefs, the Natural Aquascape, and the top of the Water’s Blessing Ogasawara Tank on the sixth floor (and the aquarium’s second level).
40 – Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum
Introducing the country’s very first public art museum, and one of the best places to dive into the world of Japanese calligraphy and sculpted creations, it’s the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum.
Established in 1926 under the title ‘Tokyo Prefectural Art Museum,’ it underwent a name change to its current one in 1943.
The institute’s permanent collection comprises two main categories. Investigate 11 sculptural works gathered in the 1970s and 80s at the Sculpture & Relief Collection, and appreciate its Calligraphy Collection containing 36 pieces (curated between 1936 and 1978).
Hosting evolving exhibitions, the museum showcases Japanese and international masters with collections on rotating loans, like works from Henri Matisse!
Take home souvenirs from the gift shop, there are on-site restaurants and Ueno Park lies in the background.
41 – Asakusa Hanayashiki
Providing fun for the residents of Tokyo since 1853, welcome to Japan’s oldest amusement park grounds, Asakusa Hanayashiki.
Initially established as a floral garden, Hanayashiki’s first attractions were added to the park in the 1870s. Loosely translated, its name means ‘public flower garden.’
Most rides are family-friendly, but one or two of the 18 attractions have age and height limits, like the Disk “O” rollercoaster!
Speaking of big dippers categorized under the park’s “speed and thrills” section, feel the adrenaline on the classic Roller Coaster.
Rides like Pyong Pyong, Sky Ship, Shirasagi and the Merry-go-round form part of the fantasy-themed selections, and kids especially love the spinning Little Star, the Swan boats, the Panda Car, Kiddy Taxi and the House of Surprise.
There’s a Carnival Game Corner (Maruhana Ennichi), a Game Plaza, and a few shops and restaurants.
42 – Yanaka Ginza Street
Not just a shopping street filled with all sorts of Japanese nick-nacks, snacks, souvenirs and traditional herbs and medicines, but the atmosphere of Yanaka Ginza Street makes it truly memorable.
Imagine dark wood shop fronts, wooden boards sprawled in Japanese shodō, lanterns flitting from shop windows or lining the street-sides, and narrower walkways where beckoning cat statues peek out from here and there… It doesn’t get more authentic!
Situated in the Yanaka neighborhood, Yanaka Ginza oozes all of the shitamachi feels, and many of the stores here have been around for decades.
Along the 175-meter strip, cafes and food stalls also dot the road, and it’s a top spot to sample affordable local street food. Knock back a shot of sake at one of the quaint bars and strike up conversations with the owners.
Stuffed toys, slippers, fans, kimonos, posters, mini felt bags and even mosaic tiles; find it all on the shopping street.
43 – Sake tastings
Originating from Japan, there’s no better time for sake tastings than here in Tokyo!
What is sake? The alcoholic rice wine beverage is made by fermenting polished rice, i.e., rice where the bran grain is removed.
There are many types of sake, ranging from standard to super-high-end bottles. Enjoy learning more about the national drink — and of course, sampling it too — during the tastings; there are loads to take your pick.
Opt for a private tour to Tokyo’s oldest sake brewery, for example, or visit hidden izakayas instead during a small-group excursion.
Fancier exploits invite you on a sake and cocktail pairing venture, or if your tastebuds really love the drink, join a 1.5-hour sake seminar led by an expert sommelier.
Get familiarized with sake-lingo for when you want to buy a bottle later or understand a drinks menu — it really comes in handy!
44 – Tokyo Sea Life Park
The nearest beach to the city is roughly 1.5 hours away. You can still appreciate the Deep Blue and all her species at Tokyo Sea Life Park.
With its goal of recreating global natural aquatic habitats, marvel at creatures from around the world, and the aquarium is set up in different zones across three floors.
Spot bluefin tuna and scalloped hammerheads at the Voyagers of the Sea tank, and rockhopper, little and Humboldt penguins at the Penguin Exhibition.
The Pacific Ocean zone is home to humphead wrasse and bluespine unicornfish; see angelfish and surgeonfish at the Indian Sea section; watch lumpsuckers swim by at the Atlantic Ocean tank, and butter hamlets with their neon glow at the Caribbean Sea zone.
Oceans of Polar Regions, Life of the Deep Sea, Life on the Shoreline, Life in Freshwater, The Sea of Tokyo and the Kelp Forest comprise the aquarium’s other sections.
45 – Nezu Shrine
Follow the picturesque pathway through the red torii gates and arrive at a landscape that seems straight out of a whimsical fairytale.
As thousands of bright pink, purple, red and white azaleas bloom (in April), the scene surrounding this temple is absolutely magical!
Built by the fifth shogun Tsunayoshi Tokugawa in 1705, the Shinto Sanctum is one of Tokyo’s oldest shrines. It’s believed that the shrine predates the 1st century long before this, and when the shogun constructed the grounds, he relocated the shrine to its current location.
Formerly known as Nezu Gongensha, its title was changed to Nezu Shrine as the Meiji era arrived.
Beaten slightly after the World Wars, restoration efforts were made to its Karamon gate, tower gate and wall, but much of the shrine we see today is the same as its 18th-century creation.
Throughout April, the 3,000 azalea bushes blossom, displaying a variety of 50 species. The annual Azalea Spring Festival (also called the Bunkyo Azalea Festival) runs this month, and food, handicrafts and games stalls are set up for the festival at the shrine.
46 – Sushi making classes
Apart from ramen, sushi is the most famous food to hail from Japan. Nowadays, there isn’t a town or city where you can’t find sushi!
Forget about the online tutorial videos, and learn how to roll your own during a sushi-making class to impress your friends back home.
Be shown how to handmake pieces of nigiri, maki rolls, patterned kazari, oshizushi (often called ‘pressed sushi’), and even traditional chirashi sushi bowls. Some classes take it one step further, teaching students to make fancy temari sushi and miso soup.
There are many techniques to learn during these cooking classes in Tokyo, so the lessons last around three hours.
Some sushi-making classes include visiting a local market to shop for the freshest ingredients — omakase style — or to a fresh-food grocer instead. Choose a course at a local’s home or a gourmet cooking school.
47 – Samurai Museum
Revered for centuries in Japan, unravel the history of the country’s once most elite warriors at the Samurai Museum!
Did you know that these noble soldiers have their origins in the Heian Period (from 794 to 1185 CE), ruling as the elite military class until the end of the Edo period?
Learn interesting facts like this at this fascinating attraction, and the museum offers visitors much more to do than just checking its displays and galleries.
The museum comprises two floors. The Samurai Gallery, with its Armour Exhibition, is on the first floor. On the second level is the Katana Gallery, showcasing Japanese Swords, Kabuto (helmets), Matchlocks (this refers to the Tanegashima guns later employed for foot soldiers) and more armor.
Plus, the center offers epic samurai experiences to join, like sword shows, Samurai calligraphy classes, live music shows, sword lectures and photo sessions where you can dress in traditional samurai gear!
Besotted with the Japanese warriors? There are other Samurai lessons outside the museum to join, as well as Ninja Experiences. Get suited up and learn the art of the samurai!
48 – Izakaya
In the Western world, friends gather at bars for Happy Hour; in Japan, it’s the izakayas where crowds convene to sip on sake and chill out after a hard day’s work.
Set up as an informal Japanese bar, these traditional drinking holes are intimate and equipped with enough tables and chairs so no one is left standing.
Another factor differentiating an izakaya from a regular taproom is the small dishes accompanying the menu, served as light snacks.
Wondering where to find an izakaya in Tokyo? Good news; they are everywhere! However, hunt down the most authentic locales in areas like Shinjuku’s Kabukicho and Golden Gai or neighborhoods like Akabane.
Izakaya tours are readily available if you’d prefer a local expert to guide the way, often paired with sake tastings or forming part of a pub crawl.
49 – National Museum of Western Art
From its rotating exhibits to special showcases, unravel art from around Europe dating as far back as the 14th century at the National Museum of Western Art.
Founded in 1959, the museum opened to house and display the treasured Matsukata Collection, which was returned to Japan by the French government proceeding World War II. Today, this collection features as the museum’s primary assemblage of art.
Containing approximately 5,500 items, the paintings and sculptures here are goosebump-inducing, exhibiting works from some of the greatest masters of the last couple of centuries!
Late Gothic, Renaissance, Mannerism, Baroque, Rococo, Abstract styles and more… see it all here! Hunt down these displays in the Main Building and the West Wing.
Curious to know who is celebrated inside? Scope art from maestros like Rubens, Joos van Cleve, Monet, Renoir, Delacroix, Van Gogh, Miró, Max Ernst, Picasso and Jackson Pollock — to name a few.
50 – Kanda Myojin Shrine
Whether you’re visiting the ancient Kanda Myojin Shrine during the daytime to pray for a prosperous business or a marriage proposal soon, or arriving at the historical shrine in the evening when its swooping red karamon (a typical gate of Japanese architecture found at a shrine’s entrance) is all lit up; this a fantastic spot to photograph traditional, centuries-old design.
Frequented by shoguns and surviving plenty of natural disasters, Kanda Myojin was founded in 730 CE in the Musashi Province (today known as Otemachi in the Chiyoda Ward). Circa the 17th century, the shrine was relocated to its present site.
This time frame was during the Edo period. Even though parts of the temple were devastated in the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, then ravaged during WWII, it’s been restored to its original appearance.
Housing deities of 108 neighborhoods around the city, the three most prominent Kami (deities) are Daikokuten (the god of marriage and prosperity), Ebisu, who is the god of health, good fortune and business, and Masado — the god of warding off evil. Placed within the shrine are statues of these gods.
The mid-may Kanda Matsuri Festival is held here and is one of three of the most important Shinto celebrations.
51 – Sunshine Aquarium
How many times in your life can you count visiting an aquarium… on the top of a roof?! Realities come true for those visiting the sweet Sunshine Aquarium overlooking the city of Tokyo.
Perched on the rooftop of the World Import Mart Building inside the Sunshine City complex, 70 tanks across three floors house over 23,000 marine animals, totaling 550 varied species.
Highlighting different marine ecosystems, from coastal waters to offshore areas, discover giant rays inside the Sunshine Lagoon, hundreds of sardines at the Force of Life tank, and jellyfish, squid, as well as creatures that live in cold seas at the other exhibits on the first floor.
Search for lake seals, aqua plants, amphibians and fish living in mangrove forests on the second floor. Located on the third level is the Outdoor Marine Garden.
Here, look up to the ‘Penguin in the Sky’ overhanging tank where cute African penguins play, or wave hello to the Cape Town natives at the Penguin in the grassland tank. Also up top is the transparent Sunshine Aqua Ring, where adorable sea lions make an appearance.
52 – Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum
Inspired by the Art Deco movement sweeping across Europe in the early 1900s, after a brief stint in France, Prince Yasuhiko and his wife Nobuko returned home to their royal residence, i.e., the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum, and decided to renovate their existing home in a similar fashion.
Unlike many of the institutes in Tokyo, this one is a living museum, and the beautiful former home of the prince and princess is the exhibition!
They even sought a French architect, commissioning Henri Rapin to work his magic on the design end, redecorating and shaping the interior of the mansion’s principal rooms.
Since 2015, it’s been listed officially as one of the country’s Important Cultural Properties.
Touring inside, navigate the different rooms, taking a moment to appreciate the antiques, period furniture pieces and the fusion of European and Japanese design.
Examples of the spaces to muse over are the Front Entrance Hall, Great Hall, Small Drawing Room, Anteroom, Salon, Great Dining Hall, Private Dining Hall, Young Prince’s Bedroom, Dressing Room, Study, Prince’s Sitting Room and loads more.
53 – Akihabara
Calling all anime fans and manga geeks, drop everything you’re doing and head straight to Akihabara after you land in the capital city.
Dubbed the city district for seeing otaku — a term used to describe someone obsessed with anime, manga, video games and techy things — there’s no place in the city quite like this area.
Stroll past kawaii girls, gashapon vending machines, endless electronic stores and shops spilling with comics, manga novels, collectibles and other novelty items relating to the Japanese genre.
The main street here is Chuo Dori, where the heave of small shops and larger department stores are. Popular ones are Yodobashi Camera, Sofmap (selling second-hand PCs) and the Laox Main Store.
You can also find Japanese maid-themed cafes in Akiba (another name for this part of Tokyo) and the Owl Cafe Akiba Fukurou.
54 – Harajuku
Harajuku punks dripping in chains and donning platform boots, Decora Kei looking like cute rainbows themselves, overly accessorized Gyaru gals, Lolita ladies dressed in Victorian-themed costumes and fairy kei in vintage pastel dress; Tokyo’s Harajuku is the epitome of modern Japanese kawaii culture.
The district forms part of the Shibuya area and is the place to be for all things OTT, cutesy, anime-related and cosplay. It’s a fashion extravaganza — especially when it comes to Japanese street style!
Centered around Harajuku Station, Harajuku’s main road is the famous colorful Takeshita Street, brimming with shops (targeted at younger crowds) selling clothes, accessories, cosmetics and more.
Linking Harajuku and Shibuya is Cat Street, a small road where the cool kids hang out, lined with hip cafes, vintage stores and high-end boutiques.
Other places to see in the area are the Meiji Jingu shrine, the Nezu Museum, and nearby Omotesando — an affluent neighborhood boasting international designers and luxury brand stores
55 – Yushukan Museum
Oddly, the original Yushukan Museum building was designed by an Italian architect inspired by Italy’s medieval castles; however, it has been remodeled since.
Welcoming public visitors since 1882, it’s located within the Yasukuni Shrine complex.
Displays feature artifacts, memorabilia, artillery and actual warplanes from the different battles throughout the decades. This has been the aim since its first inception.
Make your way through its four permanent exhibits showcasing collections.
These galleries include the Prologue Zone dedicated to the Age of the Samurai; the Modern History Zone exploring times from the Meiji period onwards; the Noble Spirits’ Sentiments Zone; and the Great Exhibition and Entrance Hall Zone — highlighted here are the bulk of the weapons and armor.
A zero fighter plane and a C56 Model No.31 locomotive also feature in this zone, and there are other authentic artilleries throughout the museum.
56 – FujiQ Highland
If you wanted to, you could spend an entire weekend just visiting the theme parks in this wonderful and wacky place. So, best to add FujiQ Highland to that Tokyo amusement park bucket list!
Situated at the foothills of Mount Fuji, it’s a playground filled with wild roller coasters and mega adrenaline-inducing rides.
If you dare, ride the Takabisha Roller Coaster (once the world’s steepest, it angles at 120 degrees), hold on for your life as Do-Dodonpa reaches speeds of up to 180 kilometers per hour, try out the Tekkotsubanchou – Sky Tower Swinger, feel your bellies flop on the Red Drop Tower and mustering all of the courage you have, make your way out of the Haunted Hospital Labyrinth.
Also within the park are the French-themed La Ville de Gaspard et Lisa and Thomas Land for the little ones based on everyone’s favorite tank engine.
Hungry after all the excitement? Its food stadium and other restaurant options take care of that.
57 – Tokyo City View
In a city famous for its skyscrapers, Tokyo City View is another one of Tokyo’s amazing creations designed as a city observation deck — and a popular meeting point for the Roppongi Tenmon (Astronomy) Club.
Occupying two Roppongi Hills Mori Tower floors, start on the 52nd floor. The Indoor Observation Deck and the Sky Gallery (hosting exhibitions and events) are here.
Moving up to the rooftop, the open-air Sky Deck has views for days, stretching around the city. The space takes on an entirely new dimension as night falls and the city lights up.
Visitors, feel free to partake when the Astronomy Club gathers for sky and star-watching events, or enjoy the starlight vistas on your own.
58 – Hie Shrine
A sacred site since 1478, dozens of tourists (and even celebrities) gravitate towards Hie Shrine because of its iconic red torii gate tunnel and its staircase through these leading to the “Hidden Shrine.”
Travelers fancy its surreal setting, perched on a hillside under a myriad of trees amid the Akasaka and Nagatacho neighborhoods. In season, cherry blossoms bloom everywhere.
Erected by the Japanese samurai, poet and Buddhist scholar Dokan Ota in the 15th century, Hie Jinja was initially built on the grounds of the former Edo Castle (now the Imperial Palace), thereby becoming a guardian for the royal residence of the Tokugawa shogunate family. Later the shrine was relocated to its current location.
Safeguarded by monkeys — see the statues around the Main Hall — people come to pray for good business, healthy marriage and safe childbirth. The main deity enshrined here is Oyamakui no Kami (the Shinto god who protects Tokyo city).
If you’re visiting during June, don’t miss out on the lively 11-day Sanno Festival revolving around Hie Shrine.
59 – Kappabashi Street
Japan is an expert in manufacturing top-class goods for the culinary world, from Japanese knives — are you really a pro unless you have a Santoku Knife? — to iron cookware. Avid home cooks and professional chefs head directly to Kappabashi Street (かっぱ橋道具街).
Nicknamed ‘Kitchen Town’ and called Kappabashi Dōgugai in Japanese, the kilometer-long road is, quite literally, a shopping street to shop for everything and anything relating to the kitchen — except for actual food.
Cooking utensils, pots, pans, plates, and even stoves, tables and chairs — you name it, they’ve got it; and restaurateurs and business owners frequent the road.
Found between Asakusa and Ueno, there are approximately 160 stores here.
If you do spot any “food,” it’s usually in plastic form, selling fake versions of Japanese ingredients and iconic dishes, like sushi magnets or food-themed mobile covers.
60 – Railway Museum
From drives on the Miniature Train to experiencing Japan’s first steam locomotive simulator, the interactive Railway Museum is fun, educational and intriguing for all ages.
Leading the way in retelling the history (and evolution) of the railway system in Japan, impressive displays and immersive exhibits help to do so.
Established in 2007, the museum has expanded quite a bit, now sporting five hands-on stations to get involved.
Scope out the primary gallery space, Rolling Rock Station, to see 36 historic locomotives, like the hi-tech Shinkansen.
Spend time at the History Station discerning information about the first trains, rail engineers and modern-day operations. The remaining three stations include the Job, Science and Future Stations.
Other incredible museum features to join are the simulator experiences (check out the Conductor Simulator, Train Driver Simulator Classroom, the Simulator Hall and the E5 Simulator).
61 – Small Worlds
Travel to the future, step back in time to the Industrial Revolution and transport yourselves into space all at Small Worlds — one of Asia’s largest miniature museums.
Set up indoors across a 7,000 square-meter space, spend an hour or two flittering between the eight unique “small worlds.”
Designed to replicate real places and events, as well as imaginary ones; these small-scale model displays are not just captivating, but some are interactive as well.
Investigate the Space Center, Global Village, Nightlife in Japan and Kansai International Airport areas for realistic interpretations in miniature dimensions.
Discover the fictitious worlds like Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon, Crystal Tokyo and Evangelion: Cage inspired by anime flicks.
62 – Yomiuri Land
Riding roller coasters through cherry blossom trees, splish-splashing about on an artificial beach and arriving at Yomiuri Land via a gondola ride… The city’s biggest amusement park is epic!
Envisioned as a playground for all ages, laid throughout eight creative areas are the park’s 43-odd attractions.
These are the Goodjoba Area, Plaza Stage of the Sun, the Lan Lan Area, Flag Street, the Family Area, the Bandit Area, the Aqua Area and the Gondola Boarding Area.
Find classic theme park rides, some other crazy attractions, activities like bungee jumping and five pools and three slides at the Pool WAI! Island.
Also, visiting Yomiuri Land at night is incomparable — we suggest extending your hours here to enjoy the marvelous “Jewellumination.” Sparkling in lights in all colors of the rainbow, the whole park and its attractions are all lit up. Evening shows dazzle and delight, for example, its large-scale fountain show.
63 – Tokyo Bay cruises
You may not be able to swim in Tokyo Bay (extending across Tokyo and the Kanagawa and Chiba Prefectures); however, you can get familiarized with the bay — and revel in a sightseeing adventure — during boat cruises out on the waters.
Boarding the Symphony cruise liner, a standard tour lasts between 2.5 and 3.5 hours, sailing past the city’s most iconic landmarks like Tokyo Tower, Rainbow Bridge and TOKYO SKYTREE.
Choose to go boating in the afternoon, at sunset hour or in the evenings.
Keen on spending the whole day out on the bay? Private charter a boat. Certain cruises include drinks, like cocktails and beers, a BBQ lunch or afternoon tea. Alternatively, opt for a fancy dinner excursion or a traditional 10-course Japanese meal onboard an authentic Yakatabune houseboat.
64 – Tokyo Joypolis
Between the games and attractions, you’ll have a hard time tearing the kids away from Tokyo Joypolis, even some adults still young at heart.
The indoor amusement park distinguishes itself from the ordinary type, incorporating elements of that old-school theme park fun, plus the addition of modern technologies and cool digital concepts.
Offering over 20 attractions (spread between three floors), veer into worlds of all things animation, from classic cartoons to manga favorites.
Attack on Titan, Sadako, Ace Attorney, Transformers and Sonic are examples.
Feel the adrenaline racing on the Gekion Live Coaster, Halfpipe Tokyo or in the House Of The Dead. Play a round of Zero Latency VR laser tag and watch a Japanese-style horror in the 3D gimmick theater at the Mystic Mansion.
Beat the best high scores inside the Arcade Games arena or at the Sonic Carnival, and there is even a print sticker machine here too.
65 – Rikugien Gardens
If you’ve been dreaming of (finally) meandering through a traditional Japanese-style garden, Rikugien Gardens will blow your socks off.
Cue the wisteria, magnolias and weeping sakura in spring; Rose of Sharon bushes and hydrangeas in summer; maple trees in autumn; and plum, Japanese allspice and camellias flourishing in wintertime.
Opened to the public in 1938 and spanning 87,809 square meters, the gardens are a prime example of Edo design, its grounds dating to the 18th century.
In the center is the Deshio Minato pond, cloaked by two artificial hills and a lush forest, tea houses, running streams and stone bridges.
Enjoy a cup of green tea inside the traditional Tsutsuji-chaya teahouse, built from the wood of azalea bark; dwell in silence at the peaceful Takimi-chaya arbor; look out for the Horai-jima stone arch; and head up Fujishiro-toge hill, then take in the panoramas from the Fujimi-yama viewpoint.
66 – Yayoi Kusama Museum
Home to the work of famous Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, — also affectionately known as the “Dot Lady” in the art world — dive into images of cylindrical shapes and installations made from circular patterns at the Yayoi Kusama Museum.
Born in 1929 in Matsumoto, the contemporary artist is still creating and is globally renowned for her modern, pop and abstract works. Many museums around the world showcase her art.
Floors two, three and four are the galleries, and the fifth floor houses the Library and Rooftop Gallery.
Founded by the artist herself in 2017, two primary exhibitions are hosted here annually (swapping every six months), and if you’re lucky, you might holiday in Tokyo when Kusama gives a lecture — art geeks will seriously appreciate this one!
67 – Geisha shows
Would you believe that the first “geishas” to appear in Japan were men? Referred to as ‘taikomochi,’ their role was to entertain lords through employing Japanese customs. Fast forward to the 17th century, and the first female geishas arrived on the scene.
Loosely translated, ‘gei’ means “art,” and ‘sha’ refers to a person. It’s a pretty apt description of what the ladies are all about; preserving and celebrating ancient traditions to this day.
One of the most authentic experiences to have in Japan is a geisha show, and there are plenty of options to pick from in Tokyo.
Watch a geisha performance, hear traditional Japanese songs and marvel at the classic geisha dance, followed by a round of fun games served with sweets and tea.
Become acquainted with the history of the geisha during a 2.5 show coupled with a multi-course kaiseki dinner.
Or, arrive at a geisha school and have the chance to see a geisha in training, posing for photographs with the master and student afterward.
68 – DiverCity Tokyo Plaza
Shop until you drop at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza — an entertainment shopping center with a bunch of tax-free stores, shops selling Japanese-themed goods and restaurants.
Located on Odaiba Island, the mall opened in 2012, and you can reach it via a 20-minute train ride.
Discover international labels like Billabong, H&M, Cos, Lacoste, MAC Cosmetics, Skechers, Doc Martens, and so much more, and local brands such as Coca, Gu, Hello Kitty, DAISO and Matsumoto Kiyoshi. There are over 130 shops inside!
Worked up an appetite after the hours-long shopping rounds? Head to the gourmet food court to ease the hunger pains.
Again, there’s an amalgamation of Japanese restaurants, cafes, and favorite international options. It’s a great place to introduce your tastebuds to the world of Japanese cuisine, and there’s even a store where you can make your own noodles!
69 – Tokyo Station
Curious as to why a train station would be listed as a local historic landmark? Just wait until you catch sight of Tokyo Station.
Standing out against the modernized skyscrapers surrounding this 20th-century European-style building, it’s hard to miss thanks to its striking red-brick façade. Built by the year 1914, it remains one of Tokyo’s biggest stations, boasting 28 platforms.
Board the trains, do some shopping inside (this hub is called Ekinaka), grab a bite to eat from the restaurants and cafes, or simply arrive to photograph the exquisite structure.
Recently undergoing refurbishments, the station was restored in 2012.
Key highlights on the architectural front are the North and South Domes, eight sculptures depicting the 12 signs of the zodiac and eight eagle reliefs.
70 – Ameyoko Shopping Street
From black market operations during WWII to a street to fill your sweet tooth cravings, Ameyoko Shopping Street is now a general shopping locale where you’ll find everything and anything (from clothing to accessories to bags to cosmetics to Japanese herbs and spices).
Situated underneath a train railway line between the Ueno and Okachimachi Stations, the area is simply referred to as Ameyoko by locals.
It’s renowned as a place to pick up a great bargain, and there are still dozens of candy stores, some stalls even auctioning off boxes of chocolate creations!
Similarly to Thailand, vendors sell fruit sticks, and the street food to sample in Ameyoko is real-authentic and cheap!
Shops begin setting up in the morning, and shopping kicks off between 10 AM and 11 PM.
71 – Ghibli Park
From the creators of Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, Porco Rosso, Princess Mononoke, My Neighbor Totoro, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind and Kiki’s Delivery Service… Everyone’s favorite animation studio has recently opened a brand spanking new Ghibli Park.
Bringing favorite characters and movies to life; the park has recreated iconic structures, features and lands from Studio Ghibli’s most loved films.
Set up in Moricoro Park, a natural forest surrounds the location, and currently, the main park area is open!
Discover Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse, designed as a bizarre town. Check out the Garden in the Sky, The House Below, Children’s Town, Cinema Orion (screening ten short Ghibli films), the Cat Bus Room, the Philosophy Club Room, and many other enigmatic spaces inside.
There are tons of crazy-cool, interactive exhibits in the Warehouse, like dressing as your best Ghibli character as you enter famous film scenes.
The Hill of Youth brings to life flicks like Whisper of the Heart and The Cat Returns and is set up outdoors, along with the park’s Dondoko Forest. The forest is a celebration of My Neighbor Totoro, and you can even visit Satsuki and Mei’s House.
72 – Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum
What’s the first food that pops into your mind when you think of Japan? Chances are, it was probably ramen, consistently listed as a Top 10 must-try Japanese dish.
Opening in 1994 as the first-ever food-themed amusement park, Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum is a fabulous spot for foodies, families, couples and even solo travelers. Plus, it’s dedicated to all things ramen!
Did you know that nearly every region in Japan has a version of ramen? Learn all about the history of the dish in the Gallery section.
Join a ramen noodle-making class or at the Ra-haku Sugomen Lab, conjure up an instant cup of ramen to suit your taste buds.
Replicating the streets of Japan circa 1958, there is a street-style food court boasting seven pukka ramen shops to grab a bowl from.
Pop into Kateko Café and Snack Shop for a coffee and traditional treats, or stop by the Dagashi-ya on Yu-yake Shoten (Sunset Shopping Street) comprising ‘Dagashi-ya,’ i.e., old-fashioned sweet shops.
73 – Zōjō-ji Temple
There are plenty of Shinto shrines in Tokyo; however, Zōjō-ji Temple (located next to the Tokyo Tower) is a Buddhist temple.
Its roots date back to 1393, when Zōjō-ji was founded in the Kantō region, and the temple was transferred to its current site in Tokyo in 1598.
After the Edo period ended and the Meiji reign began, many Buddhist temples in Japan were affected, including this one. Luckily, the main temple was rebuilt in the mid-1970s.
An excellent place to appreciate the Japanese Buddhist style of architecture; photograph the Sangedatsumon (Main Gate), the 3.33-meter-tall Daibonsho (Big Bell), the Daiden (Main Hall) and the Koshoden with its colorful ceiling decorated with pictures of various plants.
See the Mausoleum of Tokugawa Shoguns, where the tombs of six Tokugawa Shoguns and their families are laid to rest. Don’t leave before popping into the Zojoji Treasures Gallery.
74 – Ryogoku Kokugikan National Sumo Arena
You’ve never seen a stadium quite like the Ryogoku Kokugikan National Sumo Arena, open for public enjoyment for over 100 years. (The original arena closed down during the 20th century, and the current 10,000-seater stadium is now the primary locale for watching sumo wrestling.)
Fun fact: Japan’s traditional national sport is sumo, tracing this ancient wrestling technique back over 2,000 years.
However, it wasn’t until the Edo period that the formal rules of Sumo Wrestling were instilled, and the first professional sumo wrestlers hit the scene (before this, the Imperial family and its court were the ones to whom sumo matches were reserved.
Witness the heavyweight masters in action during three dedicated months of the year when it’s sumo tournament season — it’s one of the most authentic experiences in Tokyo.
Also in the same area as the arena (in Sumida) is the Sumo Museum, established in 1954.
Visiting Tokyo on a budget?
Analyzing all the cities in Asia, Tokyo ranks as the second most expensive — practical to know when planning your vacation. The good news is there are easy ways to save on the spending-end when visiting the tourist attractions in Tokyo.
The free walking tours in Tokyo offer a great way to do so, and there are many to take your pick, usually lasting between two to three hours.
Traverse around specific neighborhoods like Shibuya, Asakusa or Chiyoda, for example, or take a particular tour around one of the must-see landmarks, like the Imperial Palace Gardens, Tsukiji Outer Market, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden or Hamarikyu Gardens.
Looking for the best Tokyo tours?
If you think the attractions in Tokyo are impressive, wait until you get a load of the different types of Tokyo tours available.
You get the regular private full-day excursions and your half-day walking tours. Keen on sightseeing in an unusual way? Opt for a fancy helicopter tour flying over the city skyline or canoeing along the Kyunaka River, passing sites like TOKYO SKYTREE.
Enjoy an active time outdoors with a hiking tour or paragliding over Mount Fuji — a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
There are plenty of things to do in Tokyo; tours are no exception. Take advantage of the foodie experiences, like traditional tea ceremonies, or try something new, like a Japanese Archery (Kyudo) Experience.
Final thoughts
The beautiful thing about Tokyo is no matter how many times you visit the modern Japanese city; you’ll forever uncover something new to see or experience.
Plus, it’s impossible to sightsee all the landmarks and monuments in one holiday. So, there’s all the more reason to return time and time again.
Have you visited Japan’s capital city before? What were the top tourist attractions in Tokyo that stood out to you most? Share with us in the comments; we love to hear from our readers.
As always, happy travels!