Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, is a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity.
From ancient temples and serene gardens to cutting-edge technology and vibrant shopping districts, Tokyo offers an array of experiences that cater to every type of traveler.
In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best things to do in Tokyo. These must-see attractions and activities will give you a comprehensive taste of what the city has to offer.
From peaceful parks and historical sites to innovative art installations and iconic cityscapes, here are the top things to do in Tokyo.
Best Things to Do in Tokyo
1. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one of Tokyo’s largest and most beautiful parks, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Originally a feudal lord’s residence in the Edo period, it was later transformed into an imperial garden before being opened to the public.
The garden features a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese, English landscape, and French formal styles.
Visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers, including cherry blossoms in spring and chrysanthemums in autumn.
A stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one of the most relaxing things to do in Tokyo.
Location: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0014, Japan.
2. Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park, located adjacent to the bustling Harajuku district, is a vast green space popular with both locals and tourists.
It’s an ideal spot for picnicking, jogging, or simply relaxing under the trees.
On weekends, the park comes alive with various activities, including street performers, musicians, and dance groups.
The park is also famous for its ginkgo tree forest, which turns a brilliant yellow in autumn.
Visiting Yoyogi Park is one of the best things to do in Tokyo for those looking to experience the city’s vibrant outdoor culture.
Location: 2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-0052, Japan.
3. Sensō-ji
Sensō-ji, Tokyo’s oldest and most significant temple, is located in the historic Asakusa district.
Dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Sensō-ji attracts millions of visitors each year.
The approach to the temple, known as Nakamise-dori, is lined with traditional shops selling souvenirs, snacks, and crafts.
The temple’s striking red architecture, large incense cauldron, and iconic Thunder Gate make it a must-visit attraction.
Exploring Sensō-ji and its surrounding area is one of the top things to do in Tokyo for those interested in the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Location: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan.
4. teamLab Planets
teamLab Planets is an immersive digital art museum that offers a unique and mesmerizing experience.
Located in the Toyosu area, the museum features interactive exhibits that blend art, technology, and nature.
Visitors walk through water, navigate mirrored rooms, and become part of the art themselves.
The installations are designed to engage all senses, creating a surreal and captivating environment.
Experiencing teamLab Planets is one of the most innovative things to do in Tokyo, providing a glimpse into the future of art and technology.
Location: 6 Chome-1-16 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan.
5. Shibuya Scramble Crossing
Shibuya Scramble Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world, is an iconic symbol of Tokyo’s vibrant urban life.
Located in front of Shibuya Station, the crossing is famous for the sheer number of pedestrians that traverse it from all directions when the lights turn green.
The best views of the crossing can be found from the surrounding buildings, such as the Shibuya Station’s Hachiko Exit or the Shibuya Crossing Starbucks.
Watching the organized chaos of Shibuya Scramble Crossing is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Tokyo.
Location: Shibuya City, Tokyo, Japan.
6. Ghibli Museum
The Ghibli Museum, located in Mitaka, is a magical destination for fans of Studio Ghibli’s beloved animated films.
Designed by Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki, the museum offers a whimsical journey through the world of Ghibli.
Visitors can explore detailed exhibits, watch exclusive short films, and see original animation artwork.
The museum’s enchanting atmosphere and attention to detail make it a must-visit for both children and adults.
Visiting the Ghibli Museum is one of the top things to do in Tokyo for animation enthusiasts and those seeking a touch of magic.
Location: 1 Chome-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan.
7. Tsukiji Outer Market
Tsukiji Outer Market is a must-visit destination for food lovers and those interested in experiencing Tokyo’s vibrant culinary culture.
While the inner wholesale market moved to Toyosu in 2018, the outer market remains bustling with activity.
Here, visitors can explore a myriad of stalls selling fresh seafood, produce, and a variety of Japanese street food.
You can savor sushi, sashimi, and other traditional dishes while browsing through shops offering kitchenware and unique food products.
Visiting Tsukiji Outer Market is one of the top things to do in Tokyo for an authentic taste of Japanese cuisine.
Location: Japan, 〒104-0045 Tokyo, Chuo City, Tsukiji, 4 Chome, 及び６丁目一部.
8. Sanrio Puroland
Sanrio Puroland, also known as Hello Kitty Land, is an indoor theme park dedicated to Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty, My Melody, and Gudetama.
Located in Tama City, this whimsical park offers a variety of attractions, including live shows, parades, and character meet-and-greets.
Visitors can also enjoy themed rides, shopping for exclusive merchandise, and dining in character-themed restaurants.
Sanrio Puroland is a magical destination for fans of Sanrio characters and one of the most fun things to do in Tokyo for families and children.
Location: 1 Chome-31 Ochiai, Tama, Tokyo 206-8588, Japan.
9. Ueno Park
Ueno Park is a large public park in Tokyo’s Ueno district, famous for its cultural attractions and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.
The park is home to several museums, including the Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Zoo, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum.
It also features picturesque ponds, temples, and shrines. Ueno Park is a wonderful place to spend a day exploring art, history, and nature.
Visiting Ueno Park is one of the best things to do in Tokyo for those looking to enjoy a mix of cultural and outdoor activities.
Location: Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan.
10. Kappabashi Street
Kappabashi Street, also known as Kitchen Town, is a shopping street in Tokyo’s Asakusa district that specializes in kitchenware and restaurant supplies.
Here, you can find everything from professional-grade knives and cookware to plastic food replicas used by restaurants for displays.
It’s a great place to shop for unique souvenirs, whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook.
Exploring Kappabashi Street is one of the most interesting things to do in Tokyo for culinary enthusiasts and anyone looking to bring a piece of Japan’s culinary culture home.
Location: Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan.
11. Tokyo National Museum
The Tokyo National Museum, located in Ueno Park, is Japan’s oldest and largest museum, housing an extensive collection of art and antiquities.
The museum’s exhibits span several buildings and cover various periods of Japanese history, including samurai armor, ceramics, paintings, and sculptures.
It also features significant collections of Asian art from China, Korea, and other countries.
Visiting the Tokyo National Museum is one of the top things to do in Tokyo for history buffs and art lovers seeking to deepen their understanding of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
Location: 13-9 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8712, Japan.
12. Imperial Palace East Gardens
The Imperial Palace East Gardens are part of the inner palace area and are open to the public.
These beautifully landscaped gardens offer a serene escape in the heart of Tokyo.
Visitors can stroll through manicured lawns, traditional Japanese gardens, and historical sites such as the remains of Edo Castle.
The gardens are especially stunning during cherry blossom season in spring and the colorful foliage in autumn.
A visit to the Imperial Palace East Gardens is one of the best things to do in Tokyo for those seeking tranquility and a glimpse into Japan’s imperial history.
Location: 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan.
13. Tokyo Dome City
Tokyo Dome City is a large entertainment complex located in the Bunkyo ward, featuring a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages.
The complex includes the Tokyo Dome, an indoor stadium that hosts concerts and sporting events, an amusement park with roller coasters and rides, a shopping mall, and a spa.
Highlights include the Thunder Dolphin roller coaster and the LaQua spa complex.
Tokyo Dome City is a fantastic destination for a day of fun and excitement, making it one of the top things to do in Tokyo for families and thrill-seekers.
Location: 1 Chome-3-61 Koraku, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 112-8575, Japan.
14. Tokyo DisneySea
Tokyo DisneySea, located adjacent to Tokyo Disneyland, is a unique theme park inspired by the myths and legends of the sea.
It offers a distinct experience with themed ports of call such as Mediterranean Harbor, American Waterfront, and Arabian Coast.
Each area features thrilling rides, live entertainment, and beautifully designed environments.
Highlights include the exhilarating Journey to the Center of the Earth and the enchanting Mermaid Lagoon.
Visiting Tokyo DisneySea is one of the top things to do in Tokyo for Disney fans and anyone seeking a magical adventure.
Location: 1-13 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-8511, Japan.
15. Meiji Jingu
Meiji Jingu, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, is one of Tokyo’s most important Shinto shrines.
Nestled in a lush forest in Shibuya, the shrine offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
Visitors can walk through the expansive grounds, passing through the iconic torii gates and visiting the main shrine buildings.
The inner garden and the Meiji Jingu Treasure House, which displays personal belongings of the emperor and empress, are also worth exploring.
A visit to Meiji Jingu is one of the most serene and spiritual things to do in Tokyo.
Location: 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan.
16. Edo-Tokyo Museum
The Edo-Tokyo Museum offers an immersive journey through the history of Tokyo, from its origins as the small fishing village of Edo to its transformation into the bustling metropolis it is today.
The museum features life-sized reconstructions, interactive exhibits, and artifacts that bring the city’s history to life.
Highlights include a replica of the Nihonbashi bridge and models of Edo-period streets.
Visiting the Edo-Tokyo Museum is one of the best things to do in Tokyo for history enthusiasts and those interested in understanding the city’s cultural evolution.
Location: 1 Chome-4-1 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan.
17. Miraikan
Miraikan, also known as the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, is a cutting-edge science museum located in Odaiba.
The museum showcases the latest advancements in technology and science, with interactive exhibits covering topics such as robotics, space exploration, and environmental issues.
Notable exhibits include the life-sized ASIMO humanoid robot and the Geo-Cosmos, a stunning spherical display of Earth’s data.
Exploring Miraikan is one of the most exciting and educational things to do in Tokyo, offering insights into the future of science and technology.
Location: 2 Chome-3-6 Aomi, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0064, Japan.
18. teamLab Borderless
teamLab Borderless is a revolutionary digital art museum in Odaiba created by the art collective teamLab.
The museum features immersive and interactive art installations that blend seamlessly into one another, creating a borderless world of light, sound, and motion.
Visitors can wander through rooms filled with digital flowers, waterfalls, and other mesmerizing displays that respond to their presence.
Experiencing teamLab Borderless is one of the most innovative and visually stunning things to do in Tokyo, offering a glimpse into the future of art.
19. Tokyo Disneyland
Tokyo Disneyland, part of the Tokyo Disney Resort, is a beloved theme park that brings the magic of Disney to Japan.
Modeled after the original Disneyland in California, the park features seven themed lands, including Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland.
Visitors can enjoy classic rides like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and It’s a Small World, as well as meet beloved Disney characters.
With its enchanting atmosphere and exciting attractions, visiting Tokyo Disneyland is one of the top things to do in Tokyo for families and Disney enthusiasts.
Location: 1-13 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-8511, Japan.
20. Ueno Zoological Gardens
Ueno Zoological Gardens, commonly known as Ueno Zoo, is Japan’s oldest zoo, established in 1882.
Located within Ueno Park, the zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals, including giant pandas, tigers, elephants, and gorillas.
The zoo is divided into various zones, each showcasing different species and habitats.
Highlights include the Gorilla and Tiger Forest, the African Savannah, and the historical Five-Storied Pagoda.
Visiting Ueno Zoological Gardens is one of the best things to do in Tokyo for animal lovers and families seeking an enjoyable day out.
Location: 9-83 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8711, Japan.
In conclusion, Tokyo is a city that offers an incredible variety of experiences, from serene gardens and historical temples to futuristic art installations and bustling cityscapes.
Whether you’re wandering through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, enjoying the lively atmosphere of Yoyogi Park, exploring the cultural treasures of Sensō-ji, immersing yourself in the digital wonderland of teamLab Planets, witnessing the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing, or delving into the enchanting world of the Ghibli Museum, you’ll find no shortage of exciting things to do in Tokyo.
This dynamic city promises an unforgettable adventure filled with discoveries at every turn.
