Tokyo is a fascinating city where tradition and innovation blend. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking for the best experiences, this guide covers must-see attractions, culinary delights, and shopping highlights. Use this article as a reference to make your Tokyo trip more enjoyable!
As the capital of Japan, Tokyo is a top destination for travelers. From historical landmarks to the latest attractions, the city is packed with diverse charms. Here are nine carefully selected sightseeing spots you shouldn’t miss in Tokyo.
Tokyo Station serves a gateway of Japan, welcoming numerous travelers daily. The red brick station building is an iconic blend of history and modernity. Inside and around the station, you’ll find an abundance of shopping and dining options, making it an excellent place for souvenir shopping. Be sure to check out merchandise only available here!
Located in Harajuku, one of Tokyo’s trendiest districts, Meiji Jingu Shrine offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Surrounded by a lush forest, the shrine provides a tranquil space where visitors can appreciate seasonal gardens and greenery, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Ueno Park is a vast space where nature and culture coexist. With museums and a zoo within the park, it’s an ideal spot for visitors of all ages.At nearby Ameyoko Shopping Street, enjoy shopping while soaking in the lively atmosphere of the market. 
This open-air museum relocates, restores, preserves and exhibits historical buildings from Tokyo’s past, spanning from the mid-17th to mid-20th century. Visitors can step back in time and get a glimpse into everyday life of the past. The museum’s mascot, “Edomaru,” was designed by Studio Ghibli’s Miyazaki Hayao.
Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum
Odaiba, a waterfront entertainment district facing Tokyo Bay, features large shopping malls with theme parks, and a seaside park where visitors can enjoy marine sports and beach strolls. It’s a popular destination for families and couples, especially in the evening when the night views create a romantic atmosphere.
Kabukiza is the premier theater for experiencing Kabuki, a traditional Japanese performing art. The stunning stage and dynamic performances make it a must-visit for those looking to delve into Japanese culture.
Since its opening in 1958, Tokyo Tower has remained a beloved symbol of the city. Standing 333 meters tall, it offers spectacular views from two observation decks. On clear days, you can see Mt. Fuji and Tokyo Bay, while at night, the illuminated skyline creates a mesmerizing sight. The tower also features shops and restaurants for visitors to enjoy.
TOKYO SKYTREE, the world’s tallest freestanding broadcasting tower at 634 meters, offers breathtaking panoramic views from its 350 and 450 meter observation decks. The TOKYO SKYTREE TOWN at its base features shopping malls, an aquarium, and a planetarium, ensuring a full day of entertainment. The nearby TOKYO mizumachi area, which connects the TOKYO SKYTREE TOWN and Asakusa, is lined with stylish cafes and shops, perfect for a leisurely visit. A stroll along the Sumidagawa River is also recommended, offering a chance to relax while experiencing the nostalgic charm of Tokyo’s traditional neighborhoods.
■Learn more about TOKYO SKYTREE here ：
Master the TOKYO SKYTREE® Experience – highlights, how to get there and more!
Asakusa’s Sensoji Temple, one of Tokyo’s oldest temples, is an ideal place to experience traditional Japanese culture. With several kimono rental shops in the area, you can change into a yukata or kimono before visiting the temple, and enjoy classic treats like dango dumplings and soft-serve ice cream along the Nakamise Shopping Street. Additional experiences such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy, ninja training, and sushi-making classes make Asakusa a special place to immerse yourself in Japan’s history and traditions.
Tokyo boasts an incredibly diverse food scene, offering everything from fresh seafood to unique street foods. For visitors to Japan, experiencing Tokyo’s food culture is sure to be one of the highlights of the trip. Here we introduce some of the must-visit food spots to enjoy in Tokyo.
Even after the market’s relocation to Toyosu in 2018, the Tsukiji Outer Market remains a bustling food destination. Long-standing establishments and newly opened shops attract visitors worldwide. Arriving early in the morning lets you experience the lively market atmosphere and savor the freshest seafood.
A food experience in Tsukiji is sure to become one of the memorable parts of your trip to Tokyo.
Harajuku is a neighborhood famous as a hub of Japanese trends. Among its many attractions, Takeshita-dori Street stands out as an iconic shopping street, bustling with people every day. Harajuku is home to a wide variety of restaurants and cafés that are popular among young people, making it an attractive spot where you can shop and enjoy street food at the same time. Crepes with customizable toppings are a must-try treat in Harajuku.
Tokyo’s yokocho (narrow alleys lined with izakaya pubs) are perfect for experiencing Japan’s izakaya culture while mingling with locals. These lively spots offer a variety of affordable Japanese dishes, such as yakitori and oden, paired with sake. As night falls, the yokocho come alive with a lively atmosphere, warmly welcoming visitors. Spending a time at an izakaya is a wonderful way to enjoy Tokyo’s nightlife.
Tokyo offers a diverse shopping experience for all who visit. Each area—whether it’s Ginza, Shinjuku, or Akihabara—has its own unique charm. From luxury brands to pop culture, explore the wide variety of shopping districts Tokyo has to offer.
Ginza is Tokyo’s premier luxury shopping district, home to many of the world’s most renowned brands. Within its elegant cityscape, it offers a refined shopping experience featuring the latest in fashion and jewelry. Each visit to Ginza’s department stores and boutiques promises new discoveries.
Located in the heart of Tokyo, Shinjuku is a major shopping hub with numerous malls and commercial complexes. Around Shinjuku Station, you’ll find large-scale facilities like Lumine and Isetan, offering a wide range of options from fashion to delicacies. It’s an excellent place to enjoy efficient shopping in between sightseeing activities.
■For more details on shopping in Shinjuku, check here:
Enjoy gift shopping in Shinjuku, a place for everything you can dream of!
Akihabara is known as one of the “sacred places” of subculture, offering a wide variety of anime- and game-related products. It is also an ideal spot for those looking for the latest electronic devices. A stroll through Akihabara’s Electric Area allows visitors to experience both Japan’s technological prowess and its unique culture, making it a special experience for travelers to Japan.
When visiting Tokyo, choosing efficient means of transportation is essential. By making good use of public transit such as JR lines and the subway, access to tourist destinations becomes much smoother. Additionally, using tickets and passes designed for overseas visitors allows for cost-effective travel while covering many locations. Planning ahead to avoid crowds will also help ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable trip.
To make the most of sightseeing in Tokyo, efficient use of JR lines and the subway is the key. JR lines connect major tourist destinations and provide access across a wide area. In particular, the Yamanote Line, which loops around central Tokyo, is convenient for visiting many popular spots.
On the other hand, the subway network has a high density of stations, making it well-suited for getting around within the city. To shorten travel time between sightseeing locations, it is recommended to consult a route map in advance and plan the optimal route.
The free travel magazine att.JAPAN, available at tourist information centers in Tokyo, includes a central Tokyo map, JR line map, and subway route map. It’s an essential item for sightseeing in Tokyo. A digital version is also available.
By taking advantage of special tickets designed for overseas visitors, you can significantly reduce transportation costs. However, the availability, coverage areas, and applicable lines vary depending on the railway company, so it’s important to check the details in advance. For example, JR, subways, and private railways each offer different types of tickets. Be sure to choose the one that best fits your travel itinerary.
Tokyo is a bustling city, so careful planning helps avoid peak-hour congestion. Visiting attractions in the morning on weekdays or after evening rush hours can enhance your experience. Checking crowd forecasts and Japan’s national holiday calendar beforehand is also recommended.
