Top Must-Do Activities in Tokyo: A Complete Traveler’s Guide

Are you planning to travel out for vacation and are you thinking of the best places to visit? Think no further as Japan is the best country so far for you to travel to. 

The above topics will give you the guidelines on what to expect if you visit Tokyo.

Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, which never ceases to amaze. A fusion of cutting-edge technology, rich history, and vibrant pop culture, Tokyo has something for every kind of traveler.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a returning explorer, here’s a complete guide to the best things to do in Tokyo.

1. Recce the Historic Sensō-ji Temple

•  Location: Asakusa.
•  Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Main Hall); Open 24/7 for general visits.
•  Entrance Fee: Free,

Sensō-ji, Tokyo’s oldest and most significant Buddhist temple, is a must-visit. Founded in 645 AD, this grand temple is dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy.

Enter through the majestic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and walk along Nakamise Street, lined with over 80 stalls selling traditional snacks, handcrafted souvenirs, and Japanese street food.  

Highlights:

– Try Taiyaki (fish-shaped cake) or Senbei (Japanese rice crackers).  

– Visit the Asakusa Culture and Tourist Center for an observation deck with a panoramic view of Asakusa.  

– Light incense at the temple’s giant cauldron for good fortune.  

2. Experience Shibuya Crossing 

• Location: Shibuya.
• Best Time to Visit: Evening or rush hours (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM).
• Entrance Fee: Free.

If you haven’t experienced the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, your trip to Tokyo is not yet complete, as over 3,000 people cross it at once from different directions. Visit it for the best aerial view.

– Shibuya Sky (229m high observation deck).

– L’Occitane Café (for a coffee with a view).

– Starbucks Tsutaya (one of the busiest Starbucks in the world).

Nearby Attractions:

– Hachikō Statue – A gladdening tribute to Japan loyal dog.  

– Shibuya Center-Gai – A lively street filled with fashion stores, bars, and gaming arcades.  

3. Uncover the Otaku Culture in Akihabara

• Location: Akihabara.
• Best Time to Visit: Afternoon to Evening.
• Entrance Fee: Free (Shopping prices vary).

Akihabara is known as ‘Electric Town’ and is the premium paradise for anime, gaming fans and manga.

Try to experience the themed cafes, multi-story, and stores selling collectibles from most known anime franchises.

Must-Visit Spots:

– Maid Cafés – Experience quirky themed dining at @Home Café or Maidreamin.  

– Super Potato – A retro gaming store with classic consoles and video games.  

– Mandarake – A massive store for rare manga, anime figurines, and cosplay costumes.  

4. Enjoy Fresh Sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market

• Location: Tsukiji.
• Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
• Entrance Fee: Free (Food prices vary).

The Tsukiji outer market stands as the must-visit for food lovers, as the inner market relocates to Toyosu Fish Market.

They remain the best place to have fresh seafood, traditional Japanese snacks and sushi.

Top Food to Try:

– Uni (Sea Urchin) – Creamy and rich in flavor.  

– Tamago (Japanese Omelet) – Sweet and fluffy, served on skewers.  

– Grilled Scallops with Butter & Soy Sauce – A mouthwatering delicacy.  

Pro Tip: Get there early (by 8:00 AM) to avoid crowds and experience the freshest sushi you desire. 

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5. Take in the City View from Tokyo Tower or Skytree

• Locations: Minato (Tokyo Tower) / Sumida (Tokyo Skytree).
• Tokyo Tower: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Tokyo Skytree: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
• Entrance Fee: ¥1,200 – ¥3,400 depending on observation deck.

Tokyo dominate and offers spectacular city views from its two iconic towers:  

– Tokyo Tower (333m) – The Eiffel Tower-motivated structure glows orange at night.  

– Tokyo Skytree (634m) – The tallest structure in Japan, offering panoramic views as far as Mount Fuji on clear days.  

6. Stroll Through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

• Location: Shinjuku.
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
• Entrance Fee: ¥500.

Anytime you travel down here, you can get the amazing retreat from the city, Shinjuku Gyoen that entertains three distinct garden styles:

Japanese, English, and French. During spring, it’s one of the best spots for cherry blossom viewing (hanami).

Best Time to Visit:

– Spring period (March – April) for cherry blossoms.  

– Autumn (October – November) for stunning red and orange foliage.  

7. Shop and Eat in Harajuku’s Takeshita Street

• Location: Harajuku.
• Best Time to Visit: Afternoon to Evening.
• Entrance Fee: Free.

Most people do say Harajuku is the heart of Tokyo’s street fashion and youth culture.

As Takeshita street is wadded with trendy boutiques, Instagram worthy food, and cosplay shops.

What to Try:

– Crepes – Marion Crepes or Santa Monica Crepes serve delicious sweet & savory options.  

– Cotton Candy from Totti Candy Factory– Colorful and larger than your head!  

– Purikura Photo Booths** – Snap cute, sticker-decorated selfies.  

8. Experience the Nightlife in Roppongi

• Location: Roppongi.
• Best Time: 9:00 PM – Late Night.
• Entrance Fee: Varies by club/bar.

If we are talking about the Roppongi, I can technically say it is for energetic nightlife like nightclubs, a mix of high end bars, and live music venues. 

Is best known for a cultural twist, visit the Mori Art Museum or rather take in Edo’s skyline from Roppongi Hills observation deck.

Top Bars & Clubs: 

– Propaganda – A cozy vodka bar with an extensive drink selection.  

– V2 Tokyo – A luxurious nightclub with amazing city views.  

9. Visit the Meiji Shrine for a Peaceful Escape

• Location: Harajuku.
• Opening Hours: Sunrise – Sunset.
• Entrance Fee: Free.

Meiji Shrine is one of Edo’s most essential Shinto shrines, and located near Yoyogi Park.

It was dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Explore the serene forest path leading to the grand shrine gates.

Don’t Miss: 

– Watching a traditional Shinto wedding procession

10. Ride the Odaiba Ferris Wheel & Visit TeamLab Planets

• Location: Odaiba,
• TeamLab Planets: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
• Entrance Fee: ¥3,200 for TeamLab Planets.

Odaiba stands as a futuristic entertainment island with shopping malls, museums, and waterfront views to tourists. The TeamLab Planets museum offers entrancing digital art experiences.  

 Must-See Attractions: 

– Life-size Gundam Statue – A must for anime fans.  

– Palette Town’s Giant Ferris Wheel – Stunning city views.  

Final Thoughts

The above guidelines on where to visit in Tokyo already serve as a dream come true, as you can feel it from the ancient temples to neon-lit streets. 

Tokyo city, which also refers to Edo, blends tradition with the future. Start planning your itinerary wisely now, and you will experience an unforgettable adventure!

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