19 Best Things To Do in Tokyo: Travel Guide + Extra tips

Japan had been on our list for a long time. For Juraj, it was a dream destination for many years. We were drawn to the culture and the food, and once the trip became real, we couldn’t wait.

Tokyo was our first stop, and it completely exceeded our expectations. We usually prefer nature over big cities, but Tokyo surprised us. After a few days of exploring, it became one of our personal favorite big cities in Asia.

There is so much to see and do here. Make sure you give Tokyo enough time. The city feels incredibly vibrant and full of contrast.

One moment we were walking through a quiet park with orange trees. Minutes later, we were standing in the middle of Shibuya Crossing, surrounded by neon lights, giant screens, and nonstop movement. That mix is what made us fall in love with it.

In this guide, we share our personal favorite things to do in Tokyo. You’ll find popular highlights, lesser-known spots, food recommendations, and practical tips to help you plan your visit.

If you’re still considering where to base yourself for the best experience, read our where to stay in Tokyo guide.

Top Things to do in Tokyo

Map of all the attractions

1. Enjoy free city views from Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

We visited the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building twice, and it quickly became our favorite city attraction. Both towers offer slightly different perspectives, but you can see Mount Fuji from either one, so you can’t go wrong. During the day, the views are incredible — the city spreads below you with Fuji in the distance on clear days.

Later, we returned for the projection shows, where short movies are displayed on the whole building for everyone to watch from The Plaza. Both locals and tourists gathered together to enjoy it and it was stunning. See the mapping projection schedule.

After the screening, we visited the South Tower to take in the night skyline, which felt completely different from the daytime view. And the best part? All of this is completely free!

2. Stroll through the peaceful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – our favorite park

Shinjuku Gyoen quickly became our favorite park in Tokyo. It’s a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city, with wide lawns, traditional Japanese gardens, and lovely walking paths.

We loved wandering around, taking in the seasonal flowers and calm ponds — it felt like a quiet escape from the city buzz just outside its gates. The park is huge, so give yourself time to explore, and don’t miss the greenhouse with its tropical plants.

It’s the perfect spot to slow down, enjoy nature, and even have a small picnic.

3. Discover the hidden beauty of Nezu Shrine

Nezu Shrine was one of those quiet gems that surprised us. Tucked away from the main streets, it has a traditional Japanese vibe with beautiful architecture and peaceful gardens.

We loved wandering through the torii gates and exploring the small paths lined with azaleas — especially if you visit during spring when they’re in bloom.

The shrine feels intimate compared to the bigger, more crowded spots, making it easy to pause, take photos, and just enjoy the calm. It’s a perfect stop if you want to see a quiet and less touristy temple.

4. Experience the calm Meiji Jingu Shrine surrounded by forest

Meiji Jingu Shrine felt like a calm bubble in the middle of bustling Tokyo. One of its entrances is right next to Takeshita Street, so it’s easy to step from colorful, busy streets into a quiet forest path. Walking under the tall trees along the wide approach, we immediately felt a sense of peace.

The shrine grounds are beautiful, with traditional wooden structures and serene ponds, and we were lucky enough to witness a wedding ceremony taking place — the couple, dressed in traditional attire, made the experience feel even more special.

We loved watching locals perform rituals and offer prayers. Spending time here was a perfect way to slow down and enjoy a bit of nature before returning to Tokyo’s energy.

5. Relax in a traditional Japanese onsen

Trying a Japanese onsen is such a nice way to relax in Tokyo. Warm baths, quiet spaces, and a bit of traditional culture all in one — perfect after a busy day of exploring.

One we had on our list was Manyo Club Onsen in Toyosu. They have different baths, including outdoor ones with city views, and spots to just sit back and unwind.

We didn’t go this time because we were traveling with little Ema, who was only 8 months old, but it’s definitely something we want to do in the future. If you’re visiting without a baby, it’s a really nice escape from the city buzz.

6. Experience the chaos of Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is chaotic, fun, and unforgettable. People move in every direction, neon signs flash all around, and the square just pulses with energy. We thought it’s just a crossroad but once we came, we crossed it a few times since it was so much fun!

It’s especially impressive during rush hour when the square is packed — the full Tokyo experience in motion. It can feel a bit crowded, but that’s part of the charm.

We also visited the Starbucks on the 5th floor, which has a viewing area overlooking the crossing. You need to buy something to sit there, but it’s worth it for the perfect bird’s-eye perspective of the crowds and lights.

Once at the crossing, you can wander the nearby streets full of shops, neon signs, and arcades, or stop by the Hachiko Statue.

7. Watch the futuristic 3D billboards in Shibuya

Tokyo is full of incredible 3D billboards scattered across the city, from Shibuya’s QFRONT and 109 Magnet to areas like Shinjuku and Ginza.

We watched the Akita dog one from Shibuya near the Hachiko Statue, which is the best spot to catch it in all its detail. The animations are stunning, though the shows are short — just long enough to leave you wanting more.

Usually they’re screened every full hour.

8. Go-kart through the streets of Shibuya

If you want a wild and fun way to explore Tokyo, go‑karting through the streets around Shibuya is unforgettable. Driving a real street‑legal go‑kart past neon signs, bustling intersections, and big shops gives you a completely different perspective on the city — it’s chaotic, colorful, and a lot more exciting than walking.

What makes this tour great is how smooth and safe everything is. They take care of the route, helmets, and safety briefing, so you can focus on enjoying the ride.

You’ll need an international driving permit, and mornings are usually quieter if you want more room on the streets.

9. Grab a drink in the tiny bars of Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho

Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho is a tiny alley packed with small bars, tucked away just a few steps from the bustling streets of Shibuya. Each bar is cozy, with its own personality, from simple drinks to interesting snacks.

Walking through the alley feels like stepping back in time — the neon lights of the main streets fade away, replaced by warm lanterns, chatter, and the clinking of glasses.

We loved hopping from bar to bar, chatting with locals, and watching the bartenders work their magic. One of our favorite moments was trying a tiny specialty drink recommended by the bartender.

A heads-up: photography inside the bars and on the street is prohibited, which makes the experience feel more authentic and respectful.

The alley is small, so evenings can get busy, but that only adds to the atmosphere.

10. Taste fresh seafood at Tsukiji Fish Market

Tsukiji Fish Market is a bustling outdoor market full of fresh seafood, sushi, fish snacks, and even wagyu, with each stall offering something unique. The mix of smells — salty sea air, grilled fish, and fresh ingredients — hit us the moment we stepped here.

We wandered through the narrow aisles, tasting a few different snacks along the way, and watching chefs expertly slice fish in front of us. Our favorite were the three types of tuna sushi we tried — each so fresh and flavorful.

Every corner had something different to try: perfectly rolled sushi, grilled skewers, seafood bowls, and unusual fish snacks you wouldn’t find anywhere else. We loved the energy of the market, especially in the morning when everything is at its freshest.

Practical tip – come hungry and take your time.

11. Take in waterfront views on the Yurikamome Line

The Yurikamome Line is an automated train with no driver, which means the first-row seats offer uninterrupted views — and we made sure to grab them.

The elevated route runs along the waterfront and through areas with towering skyscrapers, giving a constantly changing cityscape. We loved watching the streets, bridges, and water pass by while the skyline shifted from modern towers to the colorful Odaiba area.

The ride felt like a mini sightseeing tour, letting us see both Tokyo’s futuristic side and its calmer waterfront in one trip.

It’s best to start at its first stop, Shimbashi Station, which is easy to reach from central Tokyo. The Yurikamome Line is a typical public transport train used daily by locals, so fares are the same as other metro or train lines — very reasonable.

You can hop on and off to explore Odaiba or other stops along the route, making it a flexible and scenic way to get around.

12. Visit Senso-Ji Temple & explore Asakusa streets

The first thing you notice when entering the area is the massive Kaminarimon Gate, with its iconic giant red lantern — it’s instantly recognizable and sets the stage for the experience ahead.

Just beyond the gate, a wide street called Nakamise-dori leads straight to the temple. Lined on both sides with dozens of small stalls, it’s one of the most lively and colorful parts of Asakusa.

We had so much fun wandering this street, trying all sorts of snacks, drinks, and local treats along the way — it might have even been our favorite part of exploring the area. From sweet rice crackers to fried goodies and quirky souvenirs, there was something to taste and see at every step.

Even early in the morning, the street was already buzzing with people, which shows how popular this spot is.

When you reach the temple itself, Senso-Ji is impressive — the main hall is beautifully detailed, with incense smoke filling the air and visitors praying or making offerings. The surrounding grounds are peaceful despite the crowds, and the contrast between the colorful stalls and the temple’s classic architecture makes it feel special.

Another fun way to explore Asakusa is by rickshaw, pulled by a driver wearing traditional attire and horseshoes on their boots. The drivers often share stories about the neighborhood as they take you around, giving a different perspective and a touch of old Tokyo charm.

13. Dive into the energy and skyscrapers of Shinjuku

Shinjuku is loud, busy, and a little overwhelming — in a good way. We spent hours just walking around, looking up at the skyscrapers, watching the crowds, and letting the energy of the area pull us in. It feels like there’s something happening on every corner.

What we enjoyed most was stepping off the main streets into the narrow alleys. Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) was one of our favorites — tiny restaurants, smoky grills, people squeezed in everywhere, and a really local feel.

We also spent time in Golden Gai, hopping between its tiny bars, each one completely different.

And then there’s the Godzilla Head. We weren’t even looking for it, and suddenly it was just there, towering over the street above the Toho Cinema. It’s a fun, slightly weird attraction and one of those things that makes Tokyo feel so unique.

14. Admire quirky fashion on Takeshita Street

Takeshita Street completely caught us off guard. We knew it would be busy, but nothing prepared us for the moment we stood at the entrance and saw it packed from end to end. All we could see were heads moving up and down, slowly pushing forward. It was intense, loud, and very hectic — being squeezed by that many people definitely isn’t for everyone.

What made it even more surprising was how close it is to the peaceful forest around Meiji Jingu Shrine. One moment you’re walking through quiet paths surrounded by trees, and the next you’re dropped into one of the busiest streets in Tokyo. It truly felt like two opposite worlds right next to each other.

The street itself is lined with quirky fashion stores, colorful accessory shops, souvenir spots, and snack stands selling everything from oversized crepes to rainbow-colored sweets.

There are also small cafés and casual restaurants tucked between the shops, many with fun themes and playful interiors. Even if you don’t plan to shop, it’s worth walking through just to experience the atmosphere and see Tokyo’s bold, creative side up close.

15. Enjoy magical seasonal lights with Christmas illuminations

Tokyo’s illuminations usually start in mid-November and run through December, with some displays lasting into early January. If you’re visiting during this time, they’re absolutely worth planning around. Streets, parks, and entire neighborhoods light up, and the city feels extra special after dark.

One of our favorite spots was Roppongi Hills, where trees lining the street are completely wrapped in warm lights, creating a beautiful walkway with the city skyline and Tokyo Tower in the background.

Nearby, Tokyo Midtown Christmas is another popular stop, with elegant light displays and seasonal decorations.

We also loved the Christmas markets at Ueno Park, which felt more cozy and relaxed. There were food stalls, warm drinks, and a lively but friendly atmosphere — perfect for slowing down and enjoying the season.

If you’re in Tokyo in winter, the illuminations add a whole extra layer to the city and are easy to combine with sightseeing at night.

16. Take in classic city views from Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower is one of Tokyo’s most iconic sights, and we actually never went up to the observation decks. Instead, we enjoyed it from the outside — and honestly, that was just as memorable. There are so many great lookout points around the city that give you beautiful angles of the tower, and most of them aren’t right underneath it.

One of our favorite views was from Roppongi Hills during the Christmas illuminations, with the glowing trees in the foreground and Tokyo Tower shining in the distance. We also loved waking up to views of the tower from Park Hotel Tokyo, where we stayed — seeing it framed by the city skyline felt really special.

Another well-known street for photos is Sakurada Dori Avenue, which offers a classic straight-on view, but we didn’t manage to fit it into our schedule.

Tokyo Tower also has more to offer than just observation decks. Inside, there are shops, small attractions, exhibitions, and cafés, making it a place you can easily spend some time.

At night, the tower lights up in different colors depending on the season or occasion, and the official light-up schedules are published online, which is helpful if you want to plan your visit around a specific illumination.

17. Have fun playing games in Tokyo’s arcades

Tokyo’s arcades are loud, colorful, and impossible to ignore. We tried a few of them, mostly drawn in by the flashing lights and endless rows of claw machines. To be honest, we kept losing in Tokyo — no matter how confident we felt, the machines always won.

Funny enough, our luck completely changed in Osaka, where we somehow managed to win around eight plush toys. Still, even without winning, playing in Tokyo’s arcades was a lot of fun.

You’ll find arcades everywhere, especially in areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku, and they’re an easy, fun way to end an evening in the city.

18. Relax and people-watch in Ueno Park

Ueno Park feels like a calm break from the busy streets around it. We enjoyed walking through the wide paths, watching locals go about their day, and taking a moment to grab a coffee and slow down. It’s a popular spot for both residents and visitors, which makes it great for people-watching.

The park is especially well known during cherry blossom season, but even outside of spring it has a relaxed, everyday feel. There are ponds, open spaces, and shaded areas where you can sit and rest between sightseeing stops.

It has no entrance fee.

19. Admire Tokyo Skytree

Even without going up, Tokyo Skytree is impossible to miss — it’s the tallest structure in Japan and dominates the skyline. We enjoyed seeing it from around Asakusa and along the Sumida River, where you really get a sense of its scale and modern design.

The contrast between the tower and the surrounding streets, temples, and river is striking.

The area around the base, including the Solamachi shopping complex, is fun to explore. There are quirky shops, cafés, and snack stalls that make a visit enjoyable even if you skip the observation decks.

For those who do want to go up, tickets can be purchased online, and sunset or evening slots are especially popular.

Where to stay

After exploring Tokyo, we put together a where to stay in Tokyo guide to help you choose an area and hotel that actually match how you like to travel — not just what looks good on a map.

We’ve handpicked the best hotels in Tokyo, focusing on places we’d genuinely book again ourselves.

During peak seasons like cherry blossom season and autumn foliage, prices rise fast — often doubling or even tripling — which makes booking well in advance especially important.

Once you find a hotel that works for you, we recommend sticking with it unless you really need to change. Availability drops quickly, and rebooking later often means fewer choices or ending up in a location that’s less convenient than your original pick.

⭐️⭐️⭐️ Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo Premier Grand (our top pick) – A luxury hotel in Shinjuku with large rooms, great skyline views, and access to a quiet lounge. The location is perfect for trains, food, and evening walks. If we came back and wanted an easy, high-end stay, this would be our choice.
⭐️ Best for: Couples who want comfort, space, and a premium experience in a busy area.
👉 Check current deals →

⭐️⭐️ Park Hotel Tokyo – A stylish mid-range hotel in Ginza with art-filled rooms and city views. We loved that it felt modern and polished without being overwhelming. Direct access to Shiodome Station made getting around very easy. We appreciated that it was central but not chaotic.
⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want design, convenience, and a calm base.
👉 Compare prices →

⭐️ Shibuya Tokyu REI Hotel – A solid budget option just minutes from Shibuya Crossing. Rooms are compact but comfortable, and the location is hard to beat. We found it perfect for short stays when we wanted to be right in the action without overspending.
⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want location and simplicity.
👉 See latest prices →

Where to eat and drink

• Uogashi Nihon-Ichi Shibuya Dogenzaka – Standing sushi bar. Super fresh fish. Great prices for the quality.
• Roast Beef Ohno (Harajuku) – Tender roast beef bowl. Simple and very good.
• Kappo Sanoya – Traditional Japanese set meals. Calm place. Great experience.
• The Juicy Dumpling Manufactory – 100% recommend this place when visiting Asakusa. We tried their amazing dumplings with rich, flavorful fillings. Perfect for a quick bite or casual lunch.

How to get around

Getting around Tokyo is easy. Trains and metro lines cover the whole city and run all day. They are fast, clean, and always on time. We used Google Maps and it was really easy to understand where to go. It showed us the exact platform and line color. We added Suica card to our Apple Pay and simply tapped in & out.

Taxis are also an option but they’re rather expensive.

Best time to visit Tokyo

The best time to visit Tokyo is spring, from late March to early April. The weather is mild, and cherry blossoms are everywhere. It’s busy, but worth it.

Autumn, from October to November, is another great choice. We planned our trip at the end of November and had rather warm temperatures, clear skies, and fall colors in parks. We found this season very comfortable for walking all day.

Summer is hot and humid, especially July and August. It’s still fun, but sightseeing can feel exhausting. I would plan lighter days.

Winter is cold but dry. Fewer tourists and clear days. If you don’t mind the cold, it’s a calm and budget-friendly time to go.

Quick Tips & Local Insights

• Tokyo runs on rules. Follow the flow, stand on the correct side of escalators, and keep noise low on trains.
• Cash still matters. Many places accept cards, but small restaurants don’t. We always carried some yen.
• Trash bins are rare. We either kept a small bag in our backpack or brought our trash to convenience stores.
• Eating while walking is not common and is considered rude.

Final Thoughts

Tokyo completely surprised us. From the peaceful gardens to the bustling streets, the city feels alive at every corner. We loved how easy it was to move between quiet spots like Shinjuku Gyoen or Ueno Park and energetic areas like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Takeshita Street.

The food, the lights, and the unique experiences — from go-karting to tiny alleys and arcades — make Tokyo a city you want to explore slowly, but also can’t wait to dive into.

There’s so much to see and do, and even after a few days, we felt like we had only scratched the surface. Tokyo mixes tradition and modernity in a way that keeps surprising you, whether it’s a shrine tucked behind skyscrapers or neon lights reflecting off calm canals.

Plan enough time and enjoy both the big sights and the hidden corners.