TOP 10 Things to do in TOKYO, Japan [2023 Travel Guide]

 

Top 10 Things to Do in Tokyo

This article will share our top 10 recommendations for things to do in Tokyo. These suggestions are based on our fun trip to the largest city on earth. Don't forget to subscribe to our channel and enable notifications for more travel content. Let's dive in!

1. Takeshita Street

Tokyo is famous for its diverse shopping options, and Takeshita Street in Harajuku is a must-visit. This vibrant street is known for its trendy fashion, unique boutiques, and youth culture. Don't miss out on delicious desserts like rainbow toast or the longest tunnel potato. You can also visit the nearby Hedgehog Café for a unique and cute experience.

1. Sensō-ji Temple

Japan has two major religions: Shinto and Buddhism. Visit Sensō-ji Temple, one of Tokyo's most popular and oldest Buddhist temples. The temple dates back to the 7th century and is known for its rich history and traditional architecture. Explore the temple's main gate, Kaminarimon, and stroll down Nakamise-dori, a shopping street filled with traditional shops. Don't forget to explore the rest of Asakusa with its charming streets and delicious food.

1. Food

Tokyo is a foodie's paradise with a diverse and delicious food scene. Explore the intriguing alleys called yokocho, such as Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai, where you can find tiny bars and restaurants. Don't miss out on trying Japanese rice wine called sake and indulge in famous dishes like sushi, ramen, and street food like takoyaki and yakisoba. Make sure also to try unique Japanese desserts like wagashi and dorayaki.

1. Tokyo Imperial Palace

Visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace, the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. The palace is located on the former site of Edo Castle and offers a glimpse into Japan's history. Explore the palace gardens and ruins, and during the cherry blossom season, rent a boat at the moat for a truly enchanting experience.

1. Vending Machines

Japan is famous for its vending machines, which can be found everywhere. These machines offer a variety of products, from drinks and snacks to unique items like a cake in a can. Explore the different vending machines and try interesting items like collectibles, anime merchandise, or insects.

1. Miraikan Museum

Visit the Miraikan Museum, the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation. This cutting-edge museum showcases the latest advancements in science and technology. Explore interactive displays, virtual reality simulations, and hands-on experiments, and learn about topics like robotics, space exploration, artificial intelligence, and environmental sustainability.

1. Meiji Shrine

Located in Shibuya, Meiji Shrine is a serene oasis in the bustling city. This Shinto shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken and is surrounded by a beautiful forest. Take a peaceful stroll through the grounds and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

1. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Escape the city's hustle and bustle at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. This spacious park offers beautiful landscapes, traditional Japanese gardens, and a variety of plant species. Take a leisurely walk, picnic, or relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

1. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea

If you're a fan of Disney, don't miss the chance to visit Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea. These theme parks offer magical experiences for both children and adults. Explore the enchanting attractions, watch captivating shows, and indulge in delicious Disney-themed food.

1. Mount Fuji

For a breathtaking natural wonder, take a day trip to Mount Fuji. This iconic mountain is the highest peak in Japan and is surrounded by stunning landscapes. Take a hike, enjoy the scenic views, or visit nearby hot springs for a relaxing experience.

We hope you found these recommendations helpful for planning your trip to Tokyo. Enjoy your adventure in this incredible city!

Top 5 Things to Do in Tokyo

• 4. Shibuya Crossing

• Shibuya Crossing, or "Scramble Crossing," is a busy intersection in the heart of Shibuya's commercial and financial center. It is known for its large crowds of pedestrians crossing the street simultaneously, creating a unique, almost chaotic scene. The crossing is in front of the Shibuya station and is considered one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, with as many as 2,500 people crossing during peak hours.

• 3. Ueno Park

• Ueno Park, established in 1873, is a large public park known for museums, temples, gardens, and a zoo. The park is home to several important cultural institutions, including the Tokyo National Museum and the National Museum of Nature and Science. It also features several temples, like Bentendo Temple, dedicated to the goddess of mercy. One of the main attractions in Ueno Park is the Shinobazu Pond, home to various bird species.

• 2. Otaku Culture

• Otaku culture is a significant part of Japanese pop culture and has gained popularity worldwide. It is associated with a strong interest in anime, manga, video games, and other forms of popular entertainment. Tokyo is home to several places popular among otaku culture fans, such as the famous Akihabara neighborhood, often referred to as the "otaku capital" of Japan, and the Ghibli Museum, dedicated to the works of the Japanese animation studio.

• 1. Observation Decks

• Tokyo offers several impressive observation decks that provide panoramic views of the city. Visit at least the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan at 2,080 feet (634 meters), which features observation decks, a restaurant, and a shopping mall. Don't skip the Tokyo Tower, a 1092 ft (333 meters) tall communications and observation tower built in 1958, often used as a symbol of Tokyo.

If you have extra time in Tokyo, visit one of the unique cafes, like the Avatar Robot Café, where you can experience a one-of-a-kind dining adventure or enjoy refreshing juice served by robot avatars controlled remotely by individuals with disabilities or mental health challenges.

Travel Tips: Tokyo

Tokyo is a vibrant city with a rich culture and history. Here are some travel tips to make the most of your trip:

• Use powerful travel adapters from Ceptics for a quick charge of your devices. Different adapters charge your phone, laptop, and other devices at different speeds, so choose one that fits your needs.

• Explore the rest of Shibuya, like the narrow street of Shibuya Center Gai, which is especially popular among youths. It offers many food options, brand-name stores, and a busy nightlife.

• Visit the Ceptics website to find adapters that fit the outlet style used in your next destination. You can even buy a voltage converter for small electronics like a toothbrush, shaver, and straightener that you otherwise couldn't use.

• Check our travel guide for more suggestions on beautiful parks and gardens in Tokyo.