What to Do and See in Tokyo, Japan: A Guide with 12 Ideas to Discover the City Where Tradition Meets the Future.
From ancient temples to dazzling crossings, Tokyo is a city of contrasts worth exploring.
The heart of Japan blends spirituality, technology, art, gastronomy, and modernity in a truly unique way. Here, the past and the future coexist side by side, and that’s what makes Tokyo unforgettable.
During my trip, I was amazed by how much the city changes from one neighborhood to another.
One moment, I was admiring the calm of the Imperial Palace Gardens, and minutes later, I was surrounded by neon lights and sound at the busy Shibuya Crossing.
Visiting Tokyo means diving into a world where every detail carries meaning, from small gestures in daily life to the perfect aesthetics of a sushi plate. It’s a city that inspires curiosity, respect, and wonder.
If you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time, this guide brings together everything you need to know: what to do, what to see, how to get around, and practical tips to make the most of this incredible metropolis.
Ready to explore? Here are 12 unforgettable experiences and places to discover in Tokyo, Japan, from historic shrines to futuristic neighborhoods.
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Best Things to Do and See in Tokyo, Japan
Explore the Asakusa District and Senso-ji Temple
The Asakusa district is one of Tokyo’s most iconic areas and one of the few places where you can still feel the atmosphere of old Edo. The streets are narrow, the buildings are low, and there’s always a steady flow of locals and visitors.
It’s a great starting point for anyone who wants to experience the city’s traditional soul, away from the fast pace of Shibuya or Shinjuku.
Nakamise Street is the heart of Asakusa. Along its 250 meters, dozens of small shops sell traditional sweets like ningyo-yaki (red bean-filled cakes) and senbei (rice crackers), as well as kimonos, fans, and lucky charms.
The atmosphere is lively, and even with the crowds, it’s easy to see how local businesses preserve traditions that go back centuries.
At the end of the avenue stands Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, founded in the 7th century and dedicated to the goddess Kannon, the protector of mercy.
The entrance is through the monumental Kaminarimon, or “Thunder Gate,” with its giant red lantern, one of the city’s most iconic symbols.
Before leaving, it’s worth wandering through the side streets, where you’ll find traditional restaurants and stalls serving yakitori and freshly made taiyaki.
👉 Don’t travel to Japan without good travel insurance!
Discover Shibuya Crossing and Tokyo’s Most Iconic District
The Shibuya district is one of Tokyo’s most recognizable areas, and perhaps the one that best captures the city’s modern energy.
Neon-lit streets, giant screens, and crowds in constant motion make it one of the most fascinating places to experience the true urban pulse of Japan.
At the heart of it all lies Shibuya Crossing, known as the busiest intersection in the world.
With every change of the traffic lights, hundreds of people cross from all directions in an almost choreographed flow.
I stood there for a few minutes just watching, and I must admit, it’s hard to look away. There’s something hypnotic about that spontaneous choreography.
Right next to it stands the statue of Hachiko, the dog who faithfully waited for his owner every day, even after his death.
The story is known throughout Japan and has become a symbol of loyalty and friendship. Today, it’s not only a popular meeting spot but also a place that moves visitors with the simplicity of its story.
One of the most popular viewpoints is Shibuya Sky, located at the top of the Shibuya Scramble Square building, offering a spectacular panoramic view over the crossing and the glowing cityscape.
At night, the neighborhood turns into a dazzling show of lights and sounds. It’s the perfect contrast to more traditional areas like Asakusa, proof that Tokyo is a city of many layers, where the old and the modern coexist side by side.
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Street Kart through the streets of Tokyo
One of the most fun and unexpected experiences I had in Tokyo was driving a Street Kart through the city streets.
Imagine cruising between skyscrapers and temples, dressed in a costume inspired by video game characters, while passersby smile and take photos, it’s impossible to go unnoticed.
Before starting, you must present an International Driving Permit (valid in Japan) and take part in a short safety briefing.
After that, you choose your outfit, from superheroes to anime characters, adjust your helmet, and set off in single file behind the guide.
Driving through Tokyo’s streets is an incredible feeling, being so close to the ground makes everything feel more intense.
Safety is taken very seriously, so the routes are carefully planned to avoid overly busy areas.
Even so, the visual impact is huge, and seeing a line of colorful karts crossing Shibuya Crossing is a typically Japanese scene — somewhere between the surreal and the playful.
👉 Check how much Street Kart costs in Tokyo!
By the end of the ride, I realized that Street Kart is more than just a tourist activity, it’s an unconventional way to experience the city’s energy.
It’s an adventure that combines humor, excitement, and that quirky touch that makes Tokyo truly one of a kind.
👉 Want to know how to book, how much it costs, and which routes are the best? Read my full guide – Street Kart in Tokyo: what it’s like to drive through the city streets – where I explain everything in detail.
👉 Don’t travel to Japan without good travel insurance!
Strolling through Shinjuku and its contrast between skyscrapers and gardens
The Shinjuku district is one of the best examples of the duality that defines Tokyo, modernity and tranquility side by side, without ever colliding.
On one side, glass skyscrapers, shopping centers, and subway stations that feel like underground cities rise high.
On the other, the silence and harmony of Shinjuku Gyoen, one of the most beautiful and well-kept gardens in the Japanese capital.
The garden combines Japanese, French, and English styles, creating a perfectly balanced landscape full of intricate details.
In spring, the blooming cherry trees turn the park into a real-life postcard, attracting locals and visitors who gather to celebrate hanami.
But just step outside the garden gates, and you’re back in the intense rhythm of Shinjuku, streets glowing with neon lights and the constant buzz of shops and giant screens.
At night, the contrast becomes even more striking.
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Finally, one of the most intriguing places in Shinjuku is Golden Gai, a small maze of narrow alleys hiding dozens of tiny bars, many with room for only six or seven people.
Each bar has its own theme and regular clientele, and it’s not unusual to meet artists, writers, or curious travelers.
It’s the kind of genuine experience only Tokyo can offer, an unexpected meeting point between tradition, modernity, and humanity.
Visiting Toyosu and Tsukiji Markets to Taste Fresh Sushi
No visit to Tokyo is complete without exploring its famous fish markets, true temples of Japanese gastronomy.
For decades, the old Tsukiji Market was the commercial heart of the city, renowned for its tuna auctions and the unmatched freshness of its seafood.
Today, the wholesale activity has moved to the modern and spotless Toyosu Market, where the auctions still take place, though they are now open only to professionals.
Still, Tsukiji hasn’t lost its charm. The Tsukiji Outer Market remains lively, filled with food stalls, grocery shops, and small restaurants serving sushi, sashimi, grilled seafood, and other local specialties.
This is where I chose to go, precisely because it preserves that traditional atmosphere, the morning bustle, and the direct contact with the vendors.
Having sushi for breakfast might sound unusual, but in Tokyo, it’s almost a ritual. I picked a small family-run restaurant where the chef prepared the fish right in front of the customers, with quiet, precise movements.
The fish was incredibly fresh, and the slightly warm rice brought out the flavor of each piece. I loved it, although the rest of my family found the taste a bit stronger than they were used to, perhaps too authentic for less accustomed palates.
Wandering through the stalls of Tsukiji is also a great opportunity to try tamago (sweet Japanese omelet), fresh oysters, and freshly brewed green tea.
Even after the move to Toyosu, the spirit of the old market is still very much alive here. It’s one of the best places to understand the Japanese relationship with food, one of respect, precision, and absolute freshness.
Strolling Through Ueno and Its Museums
Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s most pleasant and culturally rich green spaces.
Beyond its gardens and ponds, it’s a true hub of art, history, and science, home to some of Japan’s most important museums, such as the Tokyo National Museum, the National Museum of Western Art, the National Museum of Nature and Science, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum.
Founded in the 19th century, Ueno was Japan’s first public park, and it still preserves an atmosphere that perfectly blends leisure and learning.
The Tokyo National Museum holds the world’s largest collection of Japanese art, featuring everything from Buddhist sculptures and samurai armor to ancient textiles, ceramics, and calligraphy.
Meanwhile, the National Museum of Western Art, designed by Le Corbusier and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands out for its modernist architecture and masterpieces by Monet, Rodin, and Van Gogh.
The National Museum of Nature and Science is a must-visit for anyone interested in paleontology or astronomy, with interactive exhibits and impressive dinosaur fossils that captivate both adults and children.
But Ueno isn’t just about museums. The park also houses Japan’s oldest zoo and historic temples and shrines such as Kaneiji, once among the city’s most powerful religious centers.
During spring, Ueno Park becomes one of Tokyo’s best spots to admire cherry blossoms (sakura). The walkways turn pink, and thousands gather to celebrate hanami, the traditional flower-viewing picnic.
In autumn, the scenery transforms completely, golden leaves reflect on the ponds, creating a view that’s just as stunning.
Explore Akihabara, the paradise of electronics and pop culture
Akihabara is an explosion of lights, sounds, and technology.
Known as Tokyo’s “Electric Town,” it emerged after World War II as a hub for electronics shops, but over time it became something much bigger. Today, it’s the heart of Japan’s pop culture, where anime fans, collectors, and curious visitors from all over the world cross paths.
Walking through its neon-lit streets, with music streaming from shopfronts, it’s easy to understand why Akihabara feels like another dimension.
The buildings are packed with entire floors dedicated to retro video games, collectible figures, manga cards, and all sorts of electronic gadgets.
You’ll find specialty stores selling everything from high-end headphones to miniature robots, each one a little world of its own.
Even for those who aren’t big fans of anime or tech, Akihabara is an experience worth having. The energy is contagious, the level of detail is astonishing, and the area is heaven for anyone who loves the “gacha” machines that dispense quirky, collectible surprises.
Discover Omoide Yokocho, Tokyo’s “Memory Lane”
Amid the bright lights of Shinjuku and the constant movement around the station, there’s a narrow alley where time seems to stand still: Omoide Yokocho, also known as “Memory Lane.”
This network of narrow lanes, some less than two metres wide, is one of the most authentic spots in the city. It preserves the post-war atmosphere from the time when street vendors began serving food from makeshift stalls.
Today, the setting remains almost unchanged. The old façades, red lanterns, and the irresistible smell of yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), create an atmosphere that feels straight out of another era.
The bars and restaurants are tiny, with counters seating just four or five people. This closeness turns every meal into a social experience, where conversations naturally flow between customers and owners.
Omoide Yokocho is the perfect place to try yakitori, sake, and other typical Japanese snacks in a truly local environment.
It’s located right next to Shinjuku Station, and the best time to visit is between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., when local workers stop by to unwind after a long day.
A hidden corner that reveals the most human and nostalgic side of old Tokyo.
Hanazono Shrine: a haven of peace in the heart of Shinjuku
Hanazono Shrine is one of Shinjuku’s oldest and most respected temples, a place where the traditional spirit of Japan still lingers amid Tokyo’s fast-paced rhythm.
Tucked away between skyscrapers, this Shinto shrine is a calm and spiritual refuge, offering a striking contrast to the lights and sounds of the surrounding neighbourhood.
Crossing the bright red torii gate instantly changes the atmosphere, the air feels lighter, time seems to slow down, and even the noise of traffic fades into the background.
Hanazono Shrine has a deep connection to Shinjuku’s history. Built in the 17th century, it was the main shrine of the village that would eventually grow into the modern neighbourhood.
Dedicated to the god Inari, protector of harvests, commerce, and prosperity, small fox statues, the divine messengers of this kami, can be seen throughout the shrine grounds.
During the day, it’s common to see locals and nearby workers pausing for a brief prayer before continuing on their way.
At night, the illuminated lanterns create an almost magical atmosphere, making the shrine especially beautiful at sunset.
The shrine also hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as Tori no Ichi in November, dedicated to business luck.
During this festival, stalls sell colorful kumade, decorative rake-shaped charms adorned with symbols of good fortune.
It’s the kind of place that reminds visitors that, despite all the neon lights and screens, the city remains deeply connected to its spiritual roots.
Experiencing Fashion and Creativity in Harajuku
The Harajuku district is the beating heart of youth and alternative fashion in Tokyo.
Here, creativity knows no bounds, and every corner reveals a new trend, an unexpected color combination, or a concept that challenges convention.
It’s a neighborhood where individual expression is taken seriously, and the streets themselves become a vibrant stage.
Takeshita Dori, Harajuku’s most famous street, is the epicenter of this energy. Along just a few hundred meters, you’ll find independent shops, vintage boutiques, themed cafés, and stalls selling Japanese crepes, a near-institution for locals.
Walking along Takeshita Dori is a full sensory experience: loud music, extravagant shop windows, and a crowd of young people showcasing unique styles, from Lolita and Japanese punk to the most colorful kawaii fashion.
Even if alternative fashion isn’t your style, Harajuku is well worth a visit.
It’s a window into Tokyo’s most creative side and a true cultural expression, where you can see how Japanese aesthetics naturally blend tradition and innovation.
On Sundays, the neighborhood becomes even more lively. Young people from all over the city gather around Yoyogi Park and Jingu Bashi Bridge to show off their elaborate outfits and pose for photos.
So take note: Harajuku, located between Shibuya and Aoyama, is a must-visit for anyone wanting to feel the modern pulse of the city, a vibrant mix of fashion, art, and creative freedom that defines contemporary Tokyo.
Admiring Tokyo from the Top of Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower
Seeing Tokyo from above is one of the most unforgettable experiences on any trip to the Japanese capital.
The city’s vastness, with neighborhoods stretching as far as the eye can see and Mount Fuji on the horizon on clear days, takes on a whole new dimension when viewed from one of its iconic towers.
The Tokyo Skytree, opened in 2012, is the tallest structure in Japan, standing at 634 meters.
Located in the Sumida district, it was designed not only as a broadcasting tower but also as an observation deck and shopping complex. Visiting the Tembo Deck at 350 meters is enough to grasp the monumental scale of the city.
From the Tembo Galleria, even higher up, the view is almost surreal, especially at sunset, when the city lights gradually come on and Tokyo transforms into a sea of sparkling lights.
The Tokyo Tower, built in 1958 and inspired by the Eiffel Tower, offers a completely different charm. At 333 meters tall, it is shorter than the Skytree but carries the symbolism of Japan’s post-war reconstruction and entry into the modern era.
Its orange-and-white structure stands out on the skyline, and at night, when illuminated, it exudes an almost poetic presence.
Shopping in Ginza
Ginza is synonymous with elegance in Tokyo.
Wide, clean streets, glass-and-steel buildings, and illuminated façades at night give the district a distinct, almost ceremonial atmosphere.
Here, major Japanese and international brands showcase their creations alongside local design shops and quiet cafés, where silence is valued almost as much as a perfectly brewed cup of coffee.
Even if you don’t intend to buy anything, strolling through Ginza is an experience in itself.
The shop windows are like genuine art galleries, and the architectural details reveal the Japanese attention to aesthetics.
On Sundays, when the main street becomes pedestrian-only, the atmosphere changes completely: families, groups of friends, and couples take their time strolling, admiring the lights and the city’s hustle and bustle.
Ginza showcases Tokyo’s sophisticated side, where tradition and modernity coexist side by side, reflecting the city’s distinctive Japanese elegance.
Where to Stay in Tokyo?
Choosing where to stay in Tokyo is almost as important as deciding what to visit. The city is immense, and each district reveals a different side of the Japanese capital.
Shinjuku is the modern heart of Tokyo, where neon lights illuminate the night and the streets are always bustling. It’s an excellent base for those wanting to feel the urban pulse and have transport links everywhere. Check out Hotel Gracery Shinjuku (4 stars).
Asakusa, on the other hand, offers a dive into traditional Tokyo. Narrow streets, kimono shops, and the scent of incense near Senso-ji Temple make you forget, for a moment, the fast pace of the metropolis. Check out Asakusa Tobu Hotel (3 stars).
Shibuya is the symbol of youth and creative energy in Tokyo. The world-famous crossing, modern cafés, and fashion stores make it a constant meeting point. Check out Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu (4 stars).
Although I explored all these areas, I stayed at MIMARU Tokyo Hatchobori. The location proved perfect — central, with excellent transport connections, and in a neighborhood quiet enough to rest after intense days discovering the city.
It was, without a doubt, an excellent choice.
👉 Read the article I wrote about Where to Stay in Tokyo.
Where to Eat in Tokyo?
Eating in Tokyo is much more than satisfying hunger, it’s a true journey through the flavors and rituals of Japan.
The city offers options for every taste and budget, from traditional markets to restaurants specializing in freshly made ramen or sushi.
One of my favorite spots was Tsukiji Itadori Uogashi Senryo, near the old fish market.
The atmosphere is relaxed, the fish is incredibly fresh, and the sushi arrives at the counter with the typical simplicity and perfection of Japanese cuisine.
For ramen lovers, Ichikakuya is an excellent choice. The bowls are generous, the broth is rich, and the atmosphere recalls the small shops frequented by locals.
Kura Sushi, with its conveyor belt system and affordable prices, is perfect for a quick and fun meal, especially if you want to try different types of sushi at your own pace.
During my trip, I also discovered Katsugorou, a small Japanese sweets shop where I tried custard and chocolate taiyaki, freshly made in the shape of a fish. A real treat after a day of sightseeing.
And of course, in Tokyo, it’s impossible not to mention the convenience stores, like Seven Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson, open 24 hours and perfect for something quick. From onigiri to instant soups, there’s always something good to grab.
During intercity travel, I loved the experience of opening a bento box on the Shinkansen. These are carefully prepared boxes with rice, fish, vegetables, and small side dishes, turning any train journey into a complete meal.
👉 Check out the full article Where to Eat in Tokyo, where I share details, prices, and practical tips.
Practical Tips for Visiting Tokyo
- Transport card: Get a Suica or Pasmo card, which can be used on trains, subways, and even at convenience stores.
- Internet: Having an eSIM is essential; I use and recommend Holafly.
- Cash: Although Japan is modern, many places still prefer payment in cash.
- Language: Not everyone speaks English, but the Japanese are extremely helpful.
- Etiquette: Follow basic rules: don’t speak loudly on public transport, don’t eat while walking, and respect queues.
Travel Insurance for Japan
Traveling with good insurance is essential, especially to a distant destination like Japan.
IATI Travel Insurance offers comprehensive options covering medical expenses, trip cancellations, and even COVID-19 related situations.
I usually go for the IATI STAR plan, which is the most complete and covers long and adventure trips.
👉 Get your IATI Travel Insurance with a 5% discount here.
What You Need to Know Before Traveling to Tokyo, Japan
When is the best time to visit Tokyo?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons. The temperatures are mild, and the scenery is stunning, with cherry blossoms or golden leaves.
However, I traveled in August, which is one of the least ideal times to visit Japan due to the heat, and I still enjoyed it a lot.
How many days do you need to visit Tokyo?
I recommend at least five full days to explore the city at a relaxed pace. If you want to visit museums and neighborhoods in more detail, a week is ideal.
Is Tokyo an expensive city?
It depends on your travel style, but it’s possible to eat well at affordable restaurants and use the efficient public transport system. Major attractions have reasonable prices; however, in Japan, visitors often pay more than locals to enter museums.
Which is the closest airport to Tokyo?
The city has two main airports: Haneda (HND), which is closer to the city center, and Narita (NRT), about 60 km away.
How to get from the airport to central Tokyo?
From Haneda, the monorail is quick and affordable. From Narita, the most convenient options are the Narita Express or the Keisei Skyliner.
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We travel as a family, focusing on authentic experiences, sustainable choices, and that extra touch of comfort that makes all the difference. At passaportenobolso.com, we share travel tips and practical information about destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. I’ve visited over 40 countries and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Every now and then, I also travel solo… Follow along on YouTube / Instagram / Facebook / TikTok / X / Pinterest.
