When we think of Japan, the first things that come to mind are Tokyo and cherry blossoms. And planning Tokyo- the capital city of Japan, it’s not difficult to find the dreamy cherry blossoms. But to live up to this dream, you need to visit during the best time.
Tokyo is a city which flaunts both its glamorous and traditional sides. Tourists find numerous things to do and places to visit in Tokyo, which makes their visit memorable. In this guide, we will be discussing the highlights that you must not miss, so stay with us in this virtual journey.
Tip: Before planning your trip, you must first learn about the tourist visa requirements for Indians.
Things to Do in Tokyo
Tokyo is bursting with energy and unique experiences, whether you’re crossing the busy Shibuya Scramble, exploring the anime world in Akihabara, or snapping magical photos at Teamlab. Ride the Shinkansen to Mt. Fuji, relive your childhood at Disneyland Tokyo, or dress up for a night out in Ginza. Don’t forget to stroll through the colourful stalls at Takeshita Street. These top things to do in Tokyo let you experience the city’s fun, fast pace, and surprises!
Take the Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing is the busiest intersection in the world, and when you’re here, you’ll instantly know why. Every two minutes, around 1,000 to 2,500 people cross from all directions at once- it’s called a “scramble” for a reason!
Head out from Shibuya Station and walk straight towards Shibuya Centre Gai. This lively area has many shops, restaurants, bars, and bright neon lights. Want the best view? Just pop into a café or restaurant on the upper floors or go to the Shibuya Sky Observatory and capture that perfect top-down photo- it really does look like ants swarming from above!
The crossing has starred in countless movies, music videos, and fashion magazines, making it one of Tokyo’s most iconic spots. And while you’re here, don’t miss the Hachiko Statue nearby.
Significance of Hachiko StatueHachiko was a loyal dog who waited daily at Shibuya Station for his deceased owner for nine years and died waiting. The statue honours his loyalty and love. |
Don’t forget to snap a video of this crossing, as this is one of Tokyo’s most Instagram-worthy spots!
Enjoy the Otaku Culture at Akihabara
| Otaku Culture is all about anime, manga, and video games. It’s a fun and colourful world where fans enjoy collecting, watching, and dressing up as their favourite characters. |
Akihabara is Tokyo’s electric town and the heart of otaku culture. From anime and manga to gaming and collectables, this is where every fan’s dream comes alive.
As you walk through the lively streets, you’ll spot multi-storey shops like Animate and Mandarake stacked with rare manga, action figures, and cosplay items. Love gaming? Don’t miss the retro arcades where locals challenge each other at lightning speed.
Cafes here are an experience of their own- try a maid cafe, where waitresses dressed in costumes greet you with a smile and quirky service.
Akihabara is a treasure trove of surprises for anime fans, vintage console lovers, and those curious about Tokyo’s vibrant subcultures. Even if you’re not a hardcore fan, the energy, colours, and creativity here are something you won’t forget. This is where Tokyo lets its wild, fun side shine!
Take Instagram-Worthy Pictures at teamLab
You can call Teamlab- a Digital Wonderland. It is the most magical spot in Tokyo for photos. teamLab Borderless or teamLab Planets– two incredible digital art museums that are unlike anything you’ve seen before.
Imagine this: glowing lantern rooms, floating flower gardens, and endless mirrors that reflect light, colour, and movement. Every room reacts to your presence, making you feel like part of the art.
Whether you’re walking barefoot through water, chasing digital butterflies, or standing in a room that feels like a dream, every corner is made for Instagram.
The best part? These installations change and move, so each visit is different.
So, dress up, charge your phone, and get ready to take the most aesthetic pictures of your Tokyo trip. This will be a key highlight of your Japan gallery!
Take the Shinkansen to Mt. Fuji
Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) for a fast and smooth ride to one of Japan’s most famous sights, Mt. Fuji. Watching this majestic mountain appear through your window is a moment you won’t forget.
You will see the best views of Mt. Fuji on the Tokaido Shinkansen, especially between Tokyo and Shin-Fuji Station. If you are travelling from Tokyo, sit on the right side of the train for a great view of Mt. Fuji.
In just about an hour, you’ll go from the busy city to views of snow-capped peaks, wide skies, and peaceful countryside.
And if you’re heading towards Hakone or Lake Kawaguchi, it’s easy to connect from the Shinkansen to local trains or buses.
Taking the Shinkansen to Mt. Fuji is a quick, comfortable, and beautiful experience. It is a must-do in Japan.
Live Your Childhood at Disneyland Tokyo
Tokyo Disneyland is a magical place where fairytales come to life and childhood dreams never grow old. No matter your age, whether you are 5 or 50, this place brings out the child in everyone!
From the charming Cinderella Castle to thrilling rides like Space Mountain and Splash Mountain, every corner of the park is filled with joy and excitement. Don’t miss the character parades, where Mickey, Minnie, and all your favourites wave hello in a colourful, musical celebration.
Craving something extra magical? Head next door to Tokyo DisneySea- a unique theme park that’s perfect for older kids and adults.
Whether you’re posing with Disney characters, munching on themed snacks, or watching the nighttime fireworks, every moment here is picture-perfect. So wear your Mickey ears, grab a churro, and get ready to live your best Disney life- right in the heart of Tokyo!
Enjoy the Nightlife in Ginza
After sunset, Ginza rises with bright colours and energy. It is a stylish place. It’s one of Tokyo’s fanciest neighbourhoods, and the nightlife here is all about relaxing in a classy way.
Think stylish cocktail bars, cosy jazz lounges, and rooftop spots where you can sip a drink and enjoy city views. Even just walking around feels magical- the buildings are all lit up, and the streets look like a movie set.
Not into drinking? No worries! You can go for a calm evening stroll, grab a sweet treat at a café, or do some late-night window shopping.
Ginza is perfect if you’re looking for a more elegant and peaceful night out in Tokyo. It’s not wild, but it’s beautiful, relaxing, and full of charm.
Explore the day market at Takeshita Street
Takeshita Street is the centre of Harajuku’s trendy fashion and one of Tokyo’s colourful markets. This narrow street is filled with unique shops, cute cafes, and tasty street food- perfect for a casual walk.
You can find cool and affordable items, such as funky socks, pastel-coloured clothes, and cute accessories, everywhere. If you want a tasty treat, try a giant crepe, rainbow cotton candy, or bubble tea. These snacks are popular on Instagram for good reasons!
You’ll also spot lots of young people dressed in creative outfits, especially on weekends. It’s a great place to visit in Japan to people-watch and feel the playful side of Tokyo.
Takeshita Street is loud, lively, and full of surprises. Even if you’re not into fashion, the vibe is worth experiencing. Just arrive early, as it gets extremely crowded quickly!
Best Places to Visit in Tokyo, Japan
From peaceful shrines to futuristic skylines, Tokyo offers some of Japan’s most iconic sights. Visit spiritual spots like Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Shrine, enjoy nature at Shinjuku National Garden or Ueno Park, and admire modern views from Tokyo Tower and Roppongi Hills.
Explore the historic Imperial Palace or relax by the bay at Odaiba Island. Each place tells a different story of Tokyo- traditional, modern, and everything in between.
So, choose your best place to stay to taste each flavour of Tokyo.
The Imperial Palace
Do you know why the Imperial Palace is famous? It carries the royal heritage of Japan as the main residence of Japan’s Emperor and a symbol of the nation’s history and heritage.
The Imperial family still lives in the palace, which makes it even more special. From the outside, the palace looks really grand yet calming, especially with its lovely gardens and the famous Nijubashi Bridge- great places for tourists to take photos!
Highlights of the Imperial Palace, Tokyo:
- Nijubashi Bridge (the double-arched bridge)
- Imperial Palace East Gardens (beautiful gardens with traditional walls, gates, and seasonal flowers)
- Otemon Gate (the grand main entrance to the East Gardens)
- Sannomaru Shozokan (Museum of the Imperial Collections): Exhibits of historical artworks and treasures owned by the Imperial family.
- Fujimi-yagura (Mt. Fuji View Keep): A surviving Edo-period watchtower with scenic views.
If you are wondering if tourists can visit the Imperial Palace and get a glimpse of its rich history?
Of course, yes, visitors can visit parts of the Imperial Palace. The inner grounds are mostly closed, but guided tours are available by advance booking. On special days, like the Emperor’s birthday and New Year, they do open up for everyone to visit.
Tip: Visit in the spring to see the cherry blossoms or in the autumn to enjoy the colourful leaves in the gardens.
Senso-ji Temple
If your question is, “Is Senso-ji Temple worth visiting”? The answer is an absolute yes! It’s Tokyo’s oldest temple, located in the historic Asakusa district. It offers a mix of unique traditions, culture, and lively local life that makes it a must-visit on any Tokyo itinerary.
Do you know what makes Senso-ji so famous? The temple, constructed in the year 645, is dedicated to Kannon, the deity representing mercy. It continues to be a place of worship and wonder even today. It’s especially well-known for its huge red Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and the shopping street Nakamise-dori that leads up to the main hall.
Highlights of Senso-ji Temple:
- Kaminarimon Gate
- Nakamise Street
- Main Hall (Hondo)
- Five-Storied Pagoda (the symbol of old Tokyo)
- Omikuji Fortune Papers: Draw a paper and discover your fortune for a fun cultural ritual!
The best part? You can explore the temple grounds at no cost. Whether you’re there to pray, take photos, or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere, Senso-ji welcomes everyone.
Roppongi Hills
Tokyo’s modern side with a dash of luxury can be seen in Roppongi Hills. It is a place with art, sophistication and skyline views. The beautiful trace of culture, architecture, and entertainment comes together in one dynamic space, and it’s here.
Roppongi Hills is famous for its sleek design, upscale boutiques, and the iconic Mori Tower. But what really makes it stand out is the Mori Art Museum and Tokyo City View observation deck, offering stunning panoramic views of the Tokyo skyline, especially magical at sunset!
Things to Do in Roppongi Hills
- Tokyo City View & Sky Deck– you can enjoy spectacular views of the Tokyo skyline from the 52nd-floor indoor observatory and open-air rooftop deck.
- Mori Art Museum– Visit contemporary art exhibits from Japan and around the world on the 53rd floor of Mori Tower.
- Mohri Garden– Visit this peaceful Japanese garden with ponds, bridges, and flowers that change with the seasons.
- Roppongi Hills Shopping & Dining– Browse luxury boutiques, high-street brands, and indulge in gourmet meals or casual bites at stylish cafés and restaurants.
- Roppongi Hills Arena– Check out outdoor performances, live events, and seasonal markets in this vibrant open-air space.
- Maman Spider Sculpture– Snap a photo with the iconic giant spider sculpture near the Mori Tower entrance- a favourite Instagram spot!
- Keyakizaka Street– A beautiful, tree-lined avenue perfect for a scenic walk, especially during winter illuminations with Tokyo Tower in the background
Wandering around is totally free, and even if you’re not in the mood to shop, you can still enjoy public art installations, designer buildings, and beautifully landscaped open spaces.
Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine is a peaceful spot in a quiet forest near Harajuku Station. This shrine pays tribute to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It offers visitors a place to escape the busy city and experience traditional Japanese culture.
What makes Meiji Shrine so special is not just its history, but the entire atmosphere. Surrounded by over 100,000 trees donated from across Japan, the shrine grounds feel more like a tranquil forest walk than a typical tourist site.
Things to See at Meiji Shrine:
- Torii Gate
- Main Shrine Building
- Ema Wall– you can write your wishes or prayers on wooden plaques and hang them for blessings.
- Barrels of Sake & Wine– Decorative displays that symbolise offerings to the deities.
- Meiji Jingu Inner Garden– A small admission-fee garden with seasonal flowers like irises in June
You can explore the Meiji Shrine for free! Visitors can pray, write wishes on wooden plaques called ema, or simply enjoy the calm atmosphere. The shrine welcomes everyone, no matter their background.
Ueno Park
The dreamy place that everyone, at least once, dreams of can be experienced in Ueno Park. It’s one of the city’s largest and liveliest green spaces, known for a fun and relaxing day out in Tokyo.
Ueno Park is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, drawing thousands for hanami (flower viewing) picnics. But it’s more than just a seasonal attraction- the park is packed with museums, a zoo, shrines, and peaceful ponds, offering something for everyone.
Highlights of Ueno Park:
- Ueno Zoo– Japan’s oldest zoo and home to pandas, elephants, and more.
- Tokyo National Museum (Japanese art, samurai swords)
- Shinobazu Pond (a scenic pond with lotus flowers, rowboats, and a picturesque shrine)
- National Museum of Nature and Science
- Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum
Yes, the park itself is free to enter, and you can walk, people-watch, or just chill under the trees at no cost. Some museums and attractions do have entry fees, but they’re absolutely worth it!
Odiba Island
If you’re in the mood for seaside vibes, futuristic attractions, and loads of fun all in one place, Odaiba Island is your go-to Tokyo escape. This artificial island in Tokyo Bay offers a unique mix of shopping, entertainment, and relaxing waterfront views- perfect for a full day out with friends or family.
Odaiba is famous for its scenic skyline views, Rainbow Bridge, and that giant Unicorn Gundam statue outside DiverCity. It blends modern cool with laid-back charm, and you’ll find everything from digital art museums to beaches and even a mini Statue of Liberty!
The best part? Just wandering around the island will offer you so much to see, even without spending a yen- though there are plenty of shops, museums, and attractions if you feel like diving in.
Things to See at Odaiba Island:
- Rainbow Bridge– a lovely spot to walk or drive across, especially lit up at night.
- DiverCity Tokyo Plaza– Home to the life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue and great shopping.
- teamLab Planets– A mind-blowing, immersive digital art experience (book in advance!).
- Palette Town Ferris Wheel– Enjoy gorgeous bay views from this colourful, iconic ride.
- Odaiba Marine Park– A breezy artificial beach with views of the city and the Statue of Liberty.
Shinjuku National Garden
Need a break from Tokyo’s hustle and bustle? Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is the perfect green escape right in the heart of the city. Once part of a feudal lord’s estate and later an imperial garden, today it’s a peaceful public space loved by both locals and tourists.
What makes Shinjuku Gyoen truly special is its blend of traditional Japanese, French formal, and English landscape gardens- all in one place. It’s especially popular in spring when over a thousand cherry trees burst into bloom, and in autumn when the maple leaves paint the park in rich reds and golds.
Highlights of Shinjuku Gyoen:
- Japanese Garden– Elegant ponds, stone bridges, and a teahouse set in a timeless landscape.
- French Garden– Neatly arranged flowerbeds and tree-lined pathways with a European feel.
- English Garden (open grassy lawns ideal for a walk or picnic)
- Greenhouse
- Kyu-Goryo-Tei Pavilion– a Chinese-style wooden building.
There’s a small entry fee (¥ 500= 300 INR for adults), but the peaceful atmosphere and stunning seasonal beauty are well worth it.
Tokyo Tower
For incredible views in Tokyo, visit Tokyo Tower, a 333-meter red and white landmark in Minato. While it’s inspired by the Eiffel Tower, it has its own unique style. Tokyo Tower is an important part of Tokyo’s skyline and a piece of Japan’s recent history.
While the outside is perfect for photos, the real magic is inside. The tower has two observation decks that provide amazing 360° views of the city. On a sunny day, you can spot Mount Fuji in the background! At the base, you’ll find FootTown, a multi-storey building with shops, cafés, and quirky attractions.
Highlights and Things to See at Tokyo Tower:
- Main Deck (150 m)– Offers sweeping views, glass floor panels, and a chill café to relax.
- Top Deck Tour (250 m)– A guided experience with jaw-dropping views and photo ops.
- Skywalk Windows– Look straight down through the glass floor if you’re feeling brave!
- FootTown– Explore souvenir shops, fun exhibits, and family-friendly attractions.
- Night Illuminations– The tower lights up in seasonal colours, making it magical after dark
There is an entry fee for the observation decks, but the experience is absolutely worth it, especially at sunset when the city lights start to sparkle.
Conclusion
To really experience the essence of Japan, visiting Tokyo is a must. Tokyo is a vibrant city that beautifully blends traditional and modern attractions. You can explore historic sites, savour fresh, delicious cuisine and experience the bustling energy of markets.
Each area offers its own vibe, from the trendy streets to the serene park. Engage with Japanese culture through a tea ceremony or a sumo match. With diverse sights, delicious cuisine, and rich history, Tokyo truly represents the spirit of Japan.
Plan your trip today and discover all that this incredible city has to offer! So why wait? Let us help you plan the perfect Tokyo itinerary that suits your vibe and travel goals. From booking exclusive experiences to personalised travel tips, we’ve got you covered every step of the way.
Reach out to us today and start your unforgettable journey to the heart of Japan. Tokyo is calling- and we’re here to make it happen!
Frequently Asked Questions on Things to Do & Places to Visit in Tokyo
What is the best time to visit Tokyo?
- The best time to visit Tokyo-
- spring (March-April) for cherry blossoms
- autumn (October-November) for pleasant weather and colourful leaves.
Is Mt. Fuji visible from Tokyo?
Yes! On clear days, especially in winter, you can see Mt. Fuji from Tokyo Tower or high-rise buildings. For closer views, take the Shinkansen.
Are Tokyo’s attractions kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Disneyland, Ueno Zoo, TeamLab, and even places like Takeshita Street are great fun for families with kids.
How do I get around Tokyo?
The Tokyo Metro and JR trains are fast, reliable, and the best way to explore the city. Get a Suica or Pasmo card for convenience.
Do I need to know Japanese to travel around Tokyo?
Not at all! Signboards are in English, and many locals are helpful. Apps like Google Translate also make it super easy.
