Tokyo is a city like no other. It’s constantly alive and buzzing with energy, and there’s always something new to discover. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Tokyo is sure to amaze you. In this blog post, we’ll share 27 things that you must do when in Tokyo!
So, without further ado, here are 27 things to add to your Tokyo bucket list:
1 – Visit the Meiji Shrine
The Meiji Shrine is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It’s surrounded by a forest that consists of 120,000 trees. The forest was originally planted to provide shade for the Meiji emperor during his trips to the shrine. Today, the forest is a popular spot for picnics and hiking. The Meiji Shrine is also home to a museum that houses artifacts from the Meiji period. If you’re interested in learning more about Japanese history, the Meiji Shrine is definitely worth a visit.
2 – Visit the Tokyo Skytree:
The Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan, standing at a height of 634 meters. It’s located in the Sumida Ward of Tokyo, on the banks of the Sumida River. The Skytree was completed in 2012 and it quickly became a popular tourist destination, due to its spectacular views of the city. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the Skytree, where they can enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo from an observation deck. The Skytree is also home to a shopping mall, restaurants, and an aquarium. If you’re visiting Tokyo, the Skytree is definitely worth a visit!
3 – Take a Ride on the Yamanote Line:
The Yamanote Line is one of Tokyo’s most iconic train lines. It circles around central Tokyo and stops at all of the major stations. The line was first opened in 1885 and has been crucial in connecting the various districts of Tokyo. Today, over 3 million people use the Yamanote Line every day, making it one of the busiest train lines in the world. The line is also well-known for its distinctive green and yellow livery. If you’re ever in Tokyo, be sure to take a ride on the Yamanote Line!
4 – Explore the Tsukiji Market:
The Tsukiji Market is one of the largest fish markets in the world, and it’s a must-visit for any food lover. The market is located in the Chuo Ward of Tokyo, and it’s home to a wide variety of seafood vendors. You can find everything from fresh sushi to live crabs, and the prices are very reasonable. The market is open daily from 4 AM to 2 PM, and it’s a great place to try some of the local cuisine. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the market can be quite crowded.
5 – Visit Sensoji Temple:
Sensoji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the Asakusa Ward of Tokyo. It is one of the most popular temples in Japan and definitely worth a visit. The temple was founded in 628 AD and is dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon. The main hall of the temple, known as the Kannon-do, houses a statue of Kannon. The temple complex also includes an impressive five-story pagoda. Sensoji Temple is best known for its massive evening festivals, which attract millions of visitors each year. However, the temple is also worth visiting during the day, when you can explore the grounds and learn about the history of this important religious site.
6 – Stroll Through Ueno Park:
Ueno Park is one of the most popular parks in Tokyo, and for good reason. The park is home to several museums, temples, and shrines, making it the perfect place to spend a leisurely day exploring. The Ueno Zoo is also located within the park, and is a great spot for families with young children. In addition to its many attractions, Ueno Park is also known for its beautiful cherry blossoms. Every spring, the park fills with people eager to see the blossoms in full bloom. Whether you’re looking to learn more about Japanese culture or simply enjoy some time outdoors, Ueno Park is definitely worth a visit.
7- Visit the Tokyo National Museum:
The Tokyo National Museum is the largest museum in Japan and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country. It is located in the Ueno Park and houses over 110,000 items, including paintings, sculptures, archaeological objects, and crafts. The museum was founded in 1872 and first opened to the public in 1882. Since then, it has undergone several expansions and renovations. The museum is divided into several departments, each of which has its own collection.
The main departmental collections include Japanese Archaeology, Japanese Art, East Asian Art, and Asian Ethnology. In addition to its permanent collections, the Tokyo National Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions. Visitors can purchase tickets for individual exhibitions or for a general admission that allows access to all areas of the museum. The Tokyo National Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in Japanese culture or history.
8 – Explore Akihabara:
Akihabara is a district of Tokyo that’s known for its electronic stores and anime shops. It’s a must-visit for any otaku (anime fan). Akihabara is also known as “electric town” because of the many electronics stores in the area. If you’re looking for the latest gadgets, you’ll find them here. The anime shops are another great reason to visit Akihabara. You’ll find all the latest merchandise, from figurines to DVDs. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants, so you can fuel up for a day of shopping. Whether you’re an otaku or not, Akihabara is worth a visit. You’ll find something to suit your interests, and you may even discover a new passion.
9 – Visit the Imperial Palace:
The Imperial Palace is the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. It’s located in the Chiyoda Ward of Tokyo and it’s surrounded by a large park. The palace is actually a complex of several buildings, including the main palace, the private residences of the Imperial Family, and various administrative buildings. Visitors to the palace are typically only allowed into the public areas, which include the grounds and some of the buildings. However, it is possible to arrange for a private tour of the main palace building. The Imperial Palace is a fascinating glimpse into Japanese culture and history, and it’s well worth a visit if you find yourself in Tokyo.
10 – Take a Walk in Ginza:
Ginza is one of the most popular districts in Tokyo, and it’s easy to see why. The streets are lined with high-end stores and restaurants, making it the perfect place to do some shopping or to enjoy a nice meal. If you’re looking for a taste of luxury, Ginza is the perfect place to start your trip to Tokyo.
11 – Visit Roppongi Hills:
Looking for a unique and exciting way to spend your day in Tokyo? Then be sure to check out Roppongi Hills! This massive complex is home to office buildings, apartments, shops, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend a few hours exploring. And with its convenient location in the Roppongi district of Tokyo, Roppongi Hills is easy to get to no matter where you’re staying in the city. So whether you’re looking for someplace new to eat lunch or just want to do some window-shopping, Roppongi Hills is definitely worth a visit.
12 – See the Tokyo Tower:
The Tokyo Tower is a communications tower that was built in 1958. It’s located in the Shiba Park district of Tokyo and it offers stunning views of the city. The tower is 1,092 feet tall and it has two observation decks. The main deck is at 820 feet and the second deck is at 150 feet. The tower also has an antenna that is used for radio and television broadcasts. The Tokyo Tower is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tokyo and it’s a great place to get a panoramic view of the city.
13 – Visit Odaiba:
located in Tokyo Bay, Odaiba is a large artificial island that is home to several amusement parks, malls, and museums. This futuristic development was originally built to house a port and airport, but it was later transformed into a hub for leisure and entertainment. Odaiba is also home to a number of museums, including the Museum of Maritime Science and the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation. With so much to see and do, Odaiba is a must-visit for anyone visiting Tokyo.
14 – Stroll Through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden:
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a large public park located in the Shinjuku district of Tokyo. The park is famous for its beautiful gardens and Cherry Blossom trees. The garden was originally built as a private strolling garden for the Imperial Family. However, it was opened to the public after World War II. Today, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tokyo. The garden features a variety of different gardens, including an English Landscape Garden, a French Formal Garden, and a Japanese Traditional Garden. In addition, the park is home to more than 1,000 Cherry Blossom trees. Every year, thousands of people come to the park to see the Cherry Blossoms in full bloom.
15 – Visit the National Art Center:
The National Art Center is one of the largest art museums in Japan. It’s located in the Roppongi district of Tokyo and it houses over 14,000 items. The museum was founded in 1972 and its collection covers a wide range of genres, including painting, sculpture, calligraphy, ceramics, and ukiyo-e. The museum also holds temporary exhibitions throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for art lovers of all ages. The National Art Center is accessible by train, and its central location makes it easy to explore other parts of Tokyo as well. Whether you’re a seasoned art aficionado or a first-time visitor, the National Art Center is sure to impress.
16 – Get lost walking around Shinjuku
Tokyo’s Shinjuku ward is one of the most vibrant and lively districts in the city. It’s home to a variety of businesses, shops, restaurants, and nightlife venues, as well as a large number of tourists. And with so much to see and do, it’s easy to get lost in the crowd. But that’s part of the appeal of Shinjuku; it’s a place where you can wander and explore, and you never know what you’ll find around the next corner. From busy shopping streets to quiet residential neighborhoods, there’s always something new to discover in Shinjuku. So if you’re looking for an adventure, ditch the map and get lost in Tokyo’s most vibrant ward.
17 – Visit the Edo-Tokyo Museum:
Tokyo is a city with a long and rich history, and the Edo-Tokyo Museum is the perfect place to learn about it. The museum is located in the Ryogoku district, which was once the center of the Edo period Tokugawa shogunate. The museum itself is divided into three main sections: the History Gallery, the Tokyo Gallery, and the Architecture Gallery. In the History Gallery, you can see exhibits on the rise of the Tokugawa shogunate and the establishment of Edo as the capital of Japan. The Tokyo Gallery covers the period from 1868 to 1945, when Tokyo was known as “Edo” and was ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate. The Architecture Gallery features scale models of famous buildings from Tokyo’s past, including the original Tokyo Station and the Asakusa Kannon Temple.
18 – See the Kabuki-za Theatre:
The Kabuki-za Theatre is a must-see for any theatre lover. It’s located in the Ginza district of Tokyo and it’s the primary theatre for the Japanese performing art of Kabuki. Kabuki is a form of classical Japanese dance-drama that dates back to the early 1600s. The typical Kabuki play is highly stylized, with elaborate costumes and make-up, and is often based on historical events or folklore. The plays are usually performed by male actors, although there are also some all-female troupes. If you’re interested in experiencing this unique form of theatre, be sure to check out the Kabuki-za Theatre.
19 – Visit the Mori Art Museum:
The Mori Art Museum is one of the premier contemporary art museums in Tokyo. Located in the Roppongi district, it is home to a wide range of temporary and permanent exhibitions. The museum also has a rooftop café with views of the city, making it the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.
The museum shop stocks a selection of books, posters, and other items related to the exhibitions on display. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for something different to do in Tokyo, the Mori Art Museum is well worth a visit.
20 – Check out the Shibuya Crossing
Be sure to check out the Shibuya Crossing. It’s one of the busiest intersections in the world, and it’s a great place to people watch. Every day, thousands of people converge on the crossing to shop, work, and play. The crossing is especially chaotic during rush hour, when the streets are filled with commuters rushing to catch their trains. But even at other times of day, the crossing is a hive of activity. If you’re looking for a true taste of Tokyo, the Shibuya Crossing is definitely a cool place to go.
21- Have an evening at Izakaya Alley:
If you’re looking for a delicious and fun evening out, look no further than Izakaya Alley! This Japanese-style pub offers a wide variety of small plates perfect for sharing, as well as an extensive list of sake, beer, and wine. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed, making it the perfect spot to catch up with friends or meet new people. And if you’re feeling brave, you can even try your hand at karaoke. Whether you’re a sushi fan or not, Izakaya Alley is sure to have something to please everyone. So why not give it a try? You might just find your new favorite place in town.
22 -Take a Walk in Yoyogi Park:
Yoyogi Park is one of the most popular parks in Tokyo and is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park is located in the Shibuya district of Tokyo and is easily accessible by public transportation. The park is famous for its Cherry Blossom trees, which attract visitors from all over Japan during the springtime. In addition to the Cherry Blossom trees, the park also has a wide variety of other trees and plants, making it a great place to take a walk and enjoy the scenery. The park also has a number of benches and picnic tables, making it a perfect spot to take a break from exploring Tokyo.
23 – Visit the National Museum of Western Art:
Tokyo is home to countless museums and art galleries, but one of the most impressive is the National Museum of Western Art. Located in Ueno Park, the museum houses over 14,000 items, covering a wide range of periods and styles. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and other works by some of the greatest Western artists, from the Renaissance masters to the Impressionists. In addition to being a treasure trove of art history, the museum is also a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the tranquil setting of Ueno Park. With its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere, the National Museum of Western Art is well worth a visit for anyone interested in art or simply looking for a relaxing day out.
25 – Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building:
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is the primary government building for the Tokyo metropolitan area. It’s located in the Shinjuku district of Tokyo and it offers stunning views of the city. The building is composed of two towers, which are connected by a series of sky bridges. The north tower is 48 stories high, while the south tower is 45 stories high.
There are two observation decks in the building, one in each tower. The observation decks are free to enter and they offer panoramic views of Tokyo. The building also houses a number of government offices, including the office of the Governor of Tokyo. If you’re interested in architecture or you want to get a bird’s-eye view of Tokyo, then I recommend visiting the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.
26 – Buy something from a Japanese vending machine
Japan is well known for its vending machines. In fact, there are over 5.52 million vending machines in Japan, which is more than one per 20 people. And these vending machines don’t just sell drinks and snacks; you can also buy items like umbrellas, books, and even used underwear! While some of these items may seem strange to purchase from a vending machine, they are actually quite convenient. For example, many umbrellas are available 24 hours a day, so you can always be prepared for the rain. And if you’re looking for a cheap book to read on the train, a vending machine is a great option. So next time you’re in Japan, be sure to check out the unique items that are available from vending machines.
27 – Hit up a rooftop bar for amazing views:
There’s no shortage of amazing views in Tokyo, but for something truly unique, you need to head to one of the city’s many rooftop bars.
Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a relaxing drink while watching the sun set over the skyline or hoping to experience Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife from above, there’s a rooftop bar to suit your needs.
One of the most popular rooftop bars is New York Bar, located on the 52nd floor of the Park Hyatt Hotel. With its stunning views of the cityscape and live music performances, it’s no wonder that this bar has been featured in numerous films and TV shows.
If you’re looking for something a little more laid-back, Skye Bar is a great option. Located on the 25th floor of The Ritz-Carlton, this bar offers breathtaking views of the city along with an extensive menu of drinks and snacks. No matter what your preferences are, there’s a Tokyo rooftop bar sure to fulfill your needs.
Conclusion:
Tokyo is a city with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply want to take in the sights and sounds of the city, there’s plenty to do. I hope this list has given you some ideas for things to do during your stay in Tokyo. Thanks for reading!
What’s on your Tokyo bucket list? Let us know in the comments below!
