Tokyo is a city that never stops moving. Its ultramodern skyscrapers stand alongside centuries-old temples, its high-energy districts contrast with serene gardens, and its food, shopping, and culture combine to create an unforgettable experience. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, Tokyo is an unmissable destination in your Japan itinerary.
We spent six days in Tokyo, and while the city’s buzz and crowds can feel overwhelming at times, we loved it. There’s so much to see and do that you could spend weeks here and still not scratch the surface. To help you make the most of your time, here’s our ultimate guide to the best things to do in Tokyo—along with essential tips for your visit.
RELEVANT READING
How Many Days Should You Spend in Tokyo?
Tokyo is massive, and there’s an endless list of things to do. We recommend spending at least 5–6 days to cover the highlights while allowing yourself time to explore at a more relaxed pace and also add one or two-day trips to unbeatable destinations. If you love food, shopping, and city life, you could easily stay for a week or more without running out of things to do.
If your trip to Japan is short and you have limited time, you can still experience the essence of Tokyo in 3 to 4 days but expect a fast-paced itinerary.
Is Tokyo Walkable?
Yes and no. Tokyo is made up of many distinct neighborhoods, and while each district is highly walkable, you’ll need to rely on public transport to get between them. The Tokyo Metro and JR trains are incredibly efficient, and we found them to be the best way to get around.
For example, areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, Asakusa, and Akihabara are best explored on foot, but to travel between them, hopping on a train is your best bet. The good news? Tokyo’s transport system (same as Osaka’s) is easy to navigate!
Make sure to download the ICOCA app and add it to your wallet or simply purchase the physical card, for ease and convenience. Having an ICOCA card in Tokyo is incredibly convenient for getting around the city. The card works seamlessly on Tokyo’s JR trains, subways, and buses, just like Suica and Pasmo. Instead of buying individual tickets for each ride, you can simply tap your card and go, saving time and avoiding confusion.
TIP: ICOCA card is also useful for making small purchases at convenience stores, vending machines, and even some restaurants. All you have to do is top it up!
Is Mt. Fuji Closer to Tokyo or Kyoto?
If you’re wondering whether Mt. Fuji is closer to Tokyo or Kyoto, the answer is Tokyo! The mountain is about 2 hours from Tokyo, making it a popular day-trip destination. Kyoto, on the other hand, is much farther away around 5 hours by car.
We visited Mt. Fuji from Tokyo, and if you’re based here, you’ll have plenty of options for a Mt. Fuji day trip—which we’ll cover below.
Best Things to Do in Tokyo
1. Visit Shibuya and the Famous Shibuya Crossing (top thing to do in Tokyo)
The world’s busiest pedestrian crossing is an unmissable Tokyo experience. Watching hundreds of people move in perfect sync is what we like to call, beautiful chaos! The best way to take it all in is from above. The Starbucks in Shibuya has a great view, but it gets crowded fast. For an even better vantage point, head to Magnet by Shibuya 109’s rooftop, which offers an epic bird’s-eye view of the crossing for an entrance fee of 1800 yen. We recommend visiting this unique spot at night when it becomes even more impressive, with colorful billboards and neon signs lighting up the streets.
2. Experience TeamLab Planets (fun thing to do in Tokyo)
One of our most mind-blowing experiences in Tokyo was TeamLab Planets, a digital art museum where visitors walk barefoot through immersive, interactive installations. The experience is truly unique, inviting visitors to walk through a water-filled room with projections of koi fish that react to their movements or step into an endless field of glowing color-changing lights. The entire museum is designed to make visitors feel like they’re part of the artwork. This is hands down one of the best things to do in Tokyo!
TIP: Wear shorts or trousers you can easily roll up, as some rooms require walking through knee-deep water. Also, book tickets in advance here since they often sell out.
3. Explore Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple
Asakusa is one of the best places to experience Tokyo’s historic side. We spent two hours here wandering through Senso-ji, the city’s oldest and most iconic temple. Entering through the massive Kaminarimon Gate felt like stepping back in time, with the bustling Nakamise Street leading the way. This lively shopping street is perfect for picking up souvenirs, from handcrafted fans to traditional sweets. Before leaving, be sure to visit the Asakusa Culture and Information Center. Take the lift to the top floor for a free panoramic view of the area, with Tokyo Skytree towering in the background.
4. Discover Akihabara’s Otaku Culture
We spent the last four days of our Japan itinerary in Akihabara, and it was an unforgettable experience. As the heart of Tokyo’s otaku culture, this district is a dream for fans of anime, manga, and electronics. Towering buildings are packed with specialty shops, gaming stores, and massive arcades where you can test your luck at winning plushies or collectible figures (sadly, we didn’t win any prizes). Even if you’re not into anime, the energy here is infectious, as there’s so much going on at once. The best thing to do in this part of Tokyo is to simply wander the neon-lit streets and soak in the vibrant atmosphere or why not, even step into a maid café for a quirky, anime-inspired experience.
5. Go Shopping in Harajuku (best thing to do in Tokyo)
Harajuku is the epicenter of Tokyo’s youth culture and fashion. We spent about 3–4 hours wandering through its vibrant streets, starting with the famous Takeshita Street, a sensory overload of bright colors, cosplay shops, and vibrant street art. But the real gem? Cat Street, is a hidden gem between Harajuku and Shibuya. While it’s difficult to pick a favorite part in this lively district, I can say without a doubt, that part, was my absolute favorite! This charming area is lined with boutique shops, vintage stores, and local designer outlets, making it the perfect place to hunt for one-of-a-kind fashion finds. We highly recommend joining a walking tour, for your chance to explore this area with a local guide, so you don’t miss out on anything!
6. Enjoy a walk at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one of the best things to do in Tokyo if you’re looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle for a bit. With its large lawns, serene ponds, and colorful flowers, it’s the perfect place to take a calming break right in the heart of Tokyo. Blending traditional Japanese, English, and French garden styles, this scenic oasis offers a unique setting to slow down and soak in the beauty. You’ll find both tourists and locals here, whether lounging on a bench under the shade of towering trees or enjoying a picnic on the open grounds.
7. Enjoy the Nightlife in Shinjuku (must thing to do in Tokyo)
Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s liveliest districts, packed with energy, bright lights, and endless entertainment. In Kabukicho, the city’s iconic nightlife hub, you’ll find a maze of bars, restaurants, karaoke joints, and nightclubs. For a more intimate atmosphere, wander through Golden Gai, a collection of tiny bars, each with its unique style. While some spots are locals-only, the charming alleyways are still worth exploring.
Just a short walk away, Omoide Yokocho, or “Memory Lane,” is a narrow alley lined with tiny eateries serving yakitori, ramen, and grilled seafood—the perfect place to soak in Tokyo’s nostalgic post-war charm. This tour offers a sneak peek into Shinjuku’s secret spots while enjoying authentic street food and drinks, and learning about the local culture from your guide.
8. Explore Ginza (top thing to do in Tokyo)
Ginza is Tokyo’s most famous shopping district, known for its luxury boutiques, department stores, incredible dining options, and many world-renowned speakeasy bars. We enjoyed wandering around this part of Tokyo, even if we only did “window shopping”. One of Ginza’s standout spots is the original Uniqlo store, which opened in 1984 and remains a must-visit spot for many visitors. When we stopped by, the line to get in was surprisingly long, so we decided to check out another Uniqlo location instead.
TIP: If you’re planning to visit a speakeasy bar, we strongly recommend making a reservation as far in advance as possible due to their popularity and limited seating.
9. Visit the Hamarikyu Gardens
If you’re looking for a relaxing spot to escape Tokyo’s hustle and bustle, Hamarikyu Gardens is your go-to. The gardens are perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll. You’ll find serene ponds, winding paths, and lush greenery that’ll make you forget you’re in one of the world’s biggest cities. The best part? There’s an awesome tea house right in the middle of the garden. Grabbing a cup of matcha here while soaking in the views is a must-do. It’s the perfect way to recharge before diving back into Tokyo’s craziness.
So, if you want to add a slice of tranquility during your days in Tokyo, definitely pencil in Hamarikyu Gardens to your Japan itinerary. It’s a great spot to chill out, snap some cool photos, and experience a different side of Tokyo.
10. Take a Day Trip to Mt. Fuji
If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, don’t miss out on adding a day trip to Mt. Fuji to your itinerary. It’s one of those iconic experiences that’ll make your Japan adventure truly unforgettable!
We decided to take a day trip from Tokyo to Lake Kawaguchi, and it was worth it. The views of Mt. Fuji from around the lake are just jaw-dropping. But if you’ve got more time, I’d suggest renting a car and staying a couple of nights in a traditional ryokan. That way, you can explore all five Fuji lakes at your own pace and visit different viewpoints without feeling rushed.
Whether you choose to hike, drive around, or just chill and enjoy the view from afar, Mt. Fuji won’t disappoint. It’s one of those places that’ll stick with you long after you’ve left Japan.
Ready to kick off your trip planning? Check out these handy travel resources:
