Best Things to Do in Tokyo You Cannot Miss!

Tokyo is a destination often featured on a traveler’s bucket list, and those who visit it are likely to come back time and time again. It’s easy to see why: this vibrant city in Japan is jam-packed with things to do, see, taste, and experience.

Tokyo is a great place to travel with friends because it offers something to satisfy every traveler’s desire. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, an anime fan, or simply an avid traveler, the bustling streets of Tokyo have something to offer everyone. 

Planning a group trip can be stressful. It's not easy to satisfy everyone, and coordinating the planning can be a headache. Use a planning tool to discover new attractions while also having a place to save and share all your travel plans.

To help you plan the trip of a lifetime, I’ve curated the ultimate list of 6  best things to do in Tokyo. From must-visit attractions to hidden gems, I’ll guide you through the sights, sounds, scents, and scenes of Tokyo. Let’s go! Sāikō! さあ行こう!       

The 6 Best Things to Do When Traveling to Tokyo, Japan

1. Tokyo National Museum 

If you’re into history or want to learn more about the city you’re visiting, a trip to Japan’s oldest museum is in order! The Tokyo National Museum is a treasure trove for history buffs to lose themselves in. 

It’s one of the most popular museums in the world and has an extensive array of artifacts ranging from culturally significant paintings and pottery to infamous Samurai swords and prehistoric relics. 

Be sure to have this English guide handy when visiting the museum. It includes a detailed map of the museum grounds and short descriptions of what exhibits to expect.

Just a 10-minute walk from the Ueno or Uguisudani Station, getting to the Tokyo National Museum is a breeze. The museum is made up of six buildings, each housing a unique collection of its own: 

• Heiseikan 
• Honkan 
• Hyokeikan 
• Kuroda Memorial Hall 
• The Gallery of Horyuji Treasures  
• Toyokan 

The Tokyo National Museum is one of around 144 museums in Tokyo, ranging from the Ghibli Museum to the War Memorial Museum. If you’re super into museums, you can very easily make a full day of it!

2. Senso-Ji 

To say that Tokyo is full of shrines and temples is an understatement. There are around 1,450 of them scattered around the metropolis! But if you only have time for one temple visit in Tokyo, make it the Senso-Ji Temple. Senso-Ji is not just an ancient temple but also the oldest temple in Tokyo.       

Steeped in history, Senso-Ji's roots date back to 628 AD. The current structure was rebuilt after WWII, but this sacred site speaks to the profound influence of Buddhism on Japanese culture

As you stroll down the vibrant street leading to the colorful temple, you'll be tempted by the array of stalls (there are nearly 100!) selling unique souvenirs and snacks. Have your fortune read or sip on some tea while waiting for the inevitable crowds to disperse. The overall vibe of being at Senso-Ji is exciting and deeply spiritual.

Conveniently located just a short 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station, this breathtaking piece of Japanese heritage is easily accessible and is one of the best things to do in Tokyo!  Take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, Tobu Skytree Line or Tsukuba Express to reach Asakusa station.

Travel Tip: A huge part of the Senso-Ji experience is the smoke that wafts from the trails of incense, said to purify the bodies of visitors. This smoke is pungent, and the air is thick with it. If you have asthma or any kind of sensitivity to smoke, you should sit this one out. 

3. Shop in Tokyo’s Local Markets  

Another top thing to do in Tokyo is to take a stroll down one of the many market streets. Tokyo is known for its yokocho (alleyway) markets, which have everything from fish markets to flea markets.   

Just outside of Senso-Ji, you’ll find Nakamise Shopping Street. Either side of this iconic street is lined with upwards of 90 stalls selling an assortment of goods. 

If you’re more into farmer’s markets, there’s the Market of the Sun, which is held on the second Saturday and Sunday of each month. The market offers high-quality jams, produce, and even coffee for sale. However, prices are on the higher end.

The UN University Farmers’ Market is a great alternative for those who don’t make the Market of the Sun. It's open most weekends and holidays, making it easier to fit it into your busy travel itinerary! 

There are so many things to buy in Japan, and the vast majority of them can be found in Tokyo’s markets. Pick up a locally made memorabilia   

Travel Tip: Due to the appeal to tourists and locals, most markets are heaving with people. It’s best to go as early in the morning as possible to try to avoid the crowd. While a handful open at 08:00, most shops are open from 10:00, so aim to arrive for this time.

3. Tokyo Skytree 

For an unparalleled viewing experience, the magnificent Tokyo Skytree is where it’s at. This towering giant stands unmatched. Soaring 634 meters high, it's the world's tallest tower since 2012. 

Whether you visit during the day or night, the observation decks will grant you stunning views of Tokyo's urban sprawl in all its glory. While modern in design, the structure thoughtfully incorporates traditional Japanese elements, adding a touch of cultural charm. 

Enjoy a meal at the 360° view restaurant, sip coffee at the café, and browse the souvenir shop. You can even walk atop the glass floor if you’re braver than I am! 

Situated mere seconds from the nearest train station, you can arrive via the convenient Tokyo Skytree Station on the Tobu Skytree Line or take the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line to Oshiage Station. It's just a 4-minute stroll away! Keep a local map handy when transiting to the Skytree.

If heights don't faze you, this iconic attraction is one of Tokyo's best for panoramic views and sightseeing thrills! What’s more, Tokyo Skytree often runs special events, like Skytree Yoga and special sunrise viewing parties, so if you time it right, you may be in for an even bigger treat.

6. Odaiba Marine Park 

Odaiba is the largest artificial island in Tokyo Bay and is an area dedicated to party-goers, shopaholics, adrenaline junkies, and those who are after a true taste of nightlife in Tokyo. While the area is renowned for its shopping, the real magic is found on the shoreline. 

The Odaiba Marine Park is a must-visit attraction that looks almost like a real beach. The 800-meter stretch of artificial coastline is yours to enjoy! Soak up the sun and tan on the white sand or keep your adrenaline flowing by participating in water sports. 

You’ll be wowed at nighttime by illuminated views of the iconic Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Tower, and the Giant Ferris Wheel. For a change of perspective, why not take in the views from a yakatabune (a low-slung wooden boat decorated by lanterns) for an unforgettable experience?

7. Feast on Japanese Food 

If you’re a foodie, visiting Tokyo will make you feel like you’ve reachedculinary heaven. Whether you’re staying in one of the best areas to stay in Tokyo or are slumming it on the cheap (we’ve all been there!), you’ll be in for a treat! Tokyo treats those who visit it to drool-inducing Japanese cuisine that will make you want to travel back to Tokyo again and again.

You might think that Tokyo only offers raw fish and noodles, but you’d be wrong. While you can find this type of food in abundance in Tokyo, it’s far from the only food this incredible culinary haven has in store for hungry travelers. Sushi and ramenaside, traditional foods like monjayaki, gyoza, and miso soup are aplenty in Tokyo.

Street food in Tokyo is also in a league of its own. Try yakitori (grilled meat on a skewer) from Toriyuu on Musashi Koyama Street, or wander over to Togoshi Ginza Shotengai and taste an oden croquette at Goto Kamabokoten. Stock up on authentic Japanese candy from Niki No Kashi in Ameya Yokocho and the list goes on. 

If you’re after a taste of home or feel intimidated by ordering in Japanese (#orderinganxiety) there are also a variety of establishments selling non-Japanese food. There’s an assortment of fast food chains, including McDonalds and Burger King. You’ll also find a handful of pizza restaurants and a bunch of Chinese eateries.