In case your journey by Japan begins in Tokyo, you’ll be thrown headfirst into every little thing that makes this nation so distinctive. Tokyo is a metropolis the place you’re always balancing between extremes. Nowhere else on the planet are outdated and new, calm and chaos, custom and hypermodernity so shut collectively. It’s a metropolis that by no means sleeps, but one the place you possibly can at all times discover moments of stillness. Tokyo is stunning and overwhelming, intense but refined. With its 23 distinct neighborhoods, every with its personal character and vibe, you would simply spend every week (or extra) immersing your self in every little thing Japan has to supply. That can assist you profit from the world’s largest metropolis, I’m sharing my ideas for the perfect issues to do, prime hotspots, and sensible recommendation to get essentially the most out of your keep!
Many vacationers start their Japan journey in Tokyo, and also you’ll more than likely arrive at Narita Airport. From there, you possibly can simply stroll by the arrivals terminal to the practice connections and take public transit to your a part of the town. Choose up a Suica card on the station instantly – it’s a chargeable transit card you should utilize on all public transportation all through Japan.
With practically 39 million residents, you may anticipate getting across the metropolis to be a nightmare – nevertheless it’s truly surprisingly simple. One of the simplest ways to get round Tokyo is by public transit. The subway is quick, clear, and extremely dependable. You will get from one aspect of the town to the opposite in below an hour. Mix that with a number of brief walks and also you’ll get all over the place with out sitting in visitors. For shorter distances, ride-hailing apps like Uber or Go are additionally a fantastic choice in Tokyo.
Tip: Get a Tokyo Metro low cost cross legitimate for twenty-four, 48, or 72 hours, together with the practice journey from the airport to the town middle. Handy and nice worth should you’re planning to pack lots into your Tokyo go to.
There may be a lot to do, see, and style in Tokyo that it might probably rapidly really feel overwhelming. However when you dig somewhat deeper, you’ll discover that the town is split into distinct neighborhoods, every with its personal environment. Beneath, we first spotlight a number of standalone sights, adopted by a neighborhood-by-neighborhood information to all of the issues you are able to do and see.
Snack your approach by Tsukiji Fish Market
Tsukiji Fish Market was as soon as the most important fish market on the planet and the beating coronary heart of Tokyo’s seafood trade. Since 2018, the wholesale operations have moved to the brand new Toyosu Market, however there’s nonetheless lots to expertise at Tsukiji. It’s a maze of slim alleys filled with market stalls and small eateries the place you possibly can pattern all types of meals. Strive tremendous contemporary bluefin tuna sushi, tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelette), or a bowl of donburi (a rice dish with braised fish and greens). The perfect time to go to the fish market is early within the morning.
Go to the interactive museum teamLab Planets TOKYO
That is no unusual museum – it’s an expertise that engages all of your senses. teamLab is world-renowned for its mesmerizing gentle installations and interactive areas the place you actually grow to be a part of the art work. The environment is magical, dreamlike, and calming suddenly, as should you’ve stepped into one other world solely. I received’t give an excessive amount of away, however one factor is definite: that is an expertise you don’t wish to miss in Tokyo! Keep away from carrying brief skirts because of the mirrored flooring, and should you’re carrying lengthy pants, select one thing you possibly can simply roll up – a part of the route goes by water.
Advance reserving required: Since customer numbers per time slot are restricted, it by no means feels too crowded. Tickets are solely out there on-line and grow to be out there about two months upfront. Guide early, as standard time slots promote out quick.
Take all of it in at Akihabara Electrical City
That is the place the place expertise, gaming, and Japanese popular culture collide into one utterly overstimulating spectacle. The second you step out of the station, you’re hit by flashing neon indicators, large anime figures, and shops stacked ground to ceiling with manga and retro video games. Every part blinks, makes noise, and strikes – it feels such as you’ve landed inside a online game. You’ll discover countless rows of outlets full of collectibles, cosplay equipment, and limited-edition figures. Should-see stops embody Yodobashi Digital camera for the most recent tech and Tremendous Potato for nostalgic retro video games. In between, you possibly can sing karaoke in a sport café, watch folks play pachinko (a Japanese arcade playing sport), or step right into a maid café the place servers in cute costumes serve you tea.
The perfect locations to buy in Tokyo
Tokyo is bursting with distinctive shops, each large and small. From huge electronics outlets and sport shops to gashapon outlets filled with merchandising machines the place you possibly can crank out little capsules with shock collectible figurines. These playful shops are quintessentially Japanese and successful with folks of all ages.
For trend and creativity, head to the Harajuku neighborhood. The second you step off the subway, you’ll end up on Takeshita-dori, a bustling road filled with brightly coloured clothes and quirky little outlets. Stroll additional and also you’ll uncover quieter aspect streets with one-of-a-kind boutiques and trendy cafés.
The Shimokitazawa neighborhood is a neighborhood favourite, filled with classic shops, document outlets, and comfortable espresso spots. The vibe is laid-back and somewhat different – good should you get pleasure from inventive finds away from the busy metropolis middle.
In search of luxurious? Then Ginza is the place to be in Tokyo. This upscale purchasing district is residence to flagship shops from manufacturers like Chanel, Uniqlo, and Muji. Even should you’re not shopping for something, it’s nicely value strolling by the attractive streets.
Stroll by the gardens of the Imperial Palace: Kōkyo
The Imperial Palace Kōkyo is the official residence of the Japanese Imperial Household, which suggests solely a small a part of the grounds are open to guests. The perfect space to discover is the East Gardens (Kōkyo Higashi Gyoen). You’ll stroll previous the stays of outdated fortress partitions, stone gates, koi ponds, and completely manicured gardens. In spring, the cherry timber listed here are gorgeous, whereas fall fills the park with heat, wealthy colours. The gardens are free to enter however closed on Mondays and Fridays.Those that wish to see the inside palace grounds can be a part of a free guided tour held twice each day. You’ll want to order upfront by the official web site and produce your passport to point out on the entrance on the day. The tour takes you thru the outer grounds, previous ceremonial buildings and the areas the place official state receptions are held.
Discover Tokyo with a neighborhood on an e-bike tour
Wish to get to know Tokyo rapidly and see lots in a brief period of time? Then this e-bike tour is one of the simplest ways to do it! Alongside a neighborhood who is aware of each nook of the town, you’ll glide by vibrant neighborhoods, quiet alleyways, and previous spots you’d in any other case stroll proper by. You’ll be able to select from three completely different routes, every with its personal distinct character. The Tokyo route is all about tradition and environment, with stops at Tokyo Station, the Imperial Palace, and a good looking Japanese backyard. The Tokyo Bay route treats you to open house, contemporary sea air, and futuristic vibes within the Odaiba neighborhood. And on the Tokyo Tower route, you’ll uncover the proper mixture of historic temples, fashionable skyscrapers, and inexperienced metropolis parks. Whichever route you select, you’ll see Tokyo because it really is – and that’s what makes this bike tour among the finest methods to expertise the town.
Day journey to Nikko or Mount Fuji from Tokyo
A go to to Nikko is without doubt one of the most lovely day journeys you possibly can take from Tokyo. It’s a spot the place you permit the town’s hustle behind and embrace the peace of nature. Tradition and nature come collectively fantastically right here: ornately embellished temples nestled amongst historic cedar timber, babbling rivers, steaming scorching springs, and waterfalls cascading down the mountains. From Tokyo, you possibly can attain Nikko in about two hours, making it a super vacation spot for a day journey.For those who solely have in the future for Nikko, it’s value reserving this Nikko day tour. It takes care of transportation between the assorted sights so that you received’t lose time ready for buses. When you’ve got extra time, it’s undoubtedly value spending the evening and exploring the realm at a leisurely tempo – Nikko has greater than sufficient to fill a number of days. Try my ideas for Nikko to see every little thing there may be to do.
Tip: One other nice tour from Tokyo is the Mount Fuji day journey, the place you’ll go to a number of scenic spots with views of the long-lasting volcano – climate allowing.
Shinjuku is the guts of Tokyo that by no means appears to sleep. Skyscrapers, outlets, karaoke bars, and izakayas (Japanese gastropubs) all mix collectively right here. You’ll discover the busiest practice station on the planet, a significant enterprise district, and proper subsequent to it, one of many metropolis’s hottest nightlife areas.
Stroll by the gorgeous gardens of Shinjuku Gyoen
Shinjuku Gyoen was as soon as a non-public property, however immediately it’s a sprawling park of over 58 hectares (143 acres) with fantastically landscaped gardens, open lawns, and a greenhouse filled with tropical vegetation. In the midst of busy Shinjuku, this place is a real oasis of calm the place you possibly can escape the noise of the town. In spring, Shinjuku Gyoen is without doubt one of the most lovely spots in Tokyo to expertise sakura (cherry blossom season). Greater than a thousand cherry timber flip the backyard pink, and folks unfold out their blankets for a picnic below the blossoms. In fall, every little thing transforms into heat shades of pink and orange.
Heads up: Throughout cherry blossom season, it’s good to purchase your ticket upfront. Outdoors of that interval, you possibly can pay on the entrance on the day.
Better of Izakaya meals tour: Uncover the perfect flavors of Tokyo
A meals tour in Tokyo is without doubt one of the most enjoyable methods to kick off your journey to Japan! As you wander by the vigorous streets of Shinjuku, you’ll pattern quite a lot of dishes, sip sake, and study all about Japanese meals tradition. Top-of-the-line meals excursions in Tokyo is the Better of Izakaya meals tour – not solely do you get to benefit from the meals, however you’ll additionally study concerning the traditions and customs that include an actual izakaya expertise. An izakaya is finest described as a cross between a pub and a tapas bar: a vigorous, informal spot the place folks collect after work to eat, drink, and unwind.
Tip: For those who’re working with a tighter price range, this extra reasonably priced meals tour is a good different. The bites are somewhat extra informal, however you’ll nonetheless eat extremely nicely and study every little thing about Japanese delicacies.
Snack on yakitori in Omoide Yokocho (Reminiscence Lane)
Step into one of many slim alleyways proper in the midst of Shinjuku, surrounded by colourful neon indicators, and also you’ll really feel immediately transported to the Tokyo of the previous. The maze of slim lanes with glowing lanterns, decorations, and tiny eateries feels virtually like a film scene. The alley referred to as Omoide Yokocho is standard with Shinjuku locals who come right here after work for yakitori (grilled rooster skewers). Just a few spots open up within the afternoon, however the neighborhood actually comes alive as soon as night falls.
Higher to skip in Tokyo: Together with Iceland and Norway, Japan is without doubt one of the final international locations on the planet that also hunts whales. Within the twentieth century, many whale species had been practically pushed to extinction by mass searching, and these animals are nonetheless killed immediately utilizing explosive harpoons – a follow that causes immense struggling. Whales play an important position in wholesome oceans and assist take in CO₂ from the environment. For those who’d fairly not help the controversial whaling trade, skip ordering whale meat in Japan.
Discover the Kabukichō neighborhood at evening
Kabukichō is maybe Tokyo’s most intriguing neighborhood. Initially envisioned as a cultural middle, it grew into the guts of Tokyo’s nightlife. You’ll discover every little thing that makes the town so intense: karaoke bars, arcade halls, host golf equipment, love resorts, and hidden cocktail bars.Kabukichō can be the place you’ll get a glimpse into an enchanting aspect of Japanese tradition: the world of host and hostess golf equipment. These institutions aren’t nearly flirting – they’re about consideration and escape from the pressures of on a regular basis life. A contemporary spin on this idea is the “rental boyfriend or girlfriend” expertise. These are younger women and men you possibly can “rent” for a number of hours to go for a stroll, seize a meal, or just have a dialog – all strictly platonic. To outsiders, this might sound unusual, however in Japan, the place many individuals stay alone and social interplay is usually restricted to the office, it serves an actual emotional objective. It’s not about romance or something bodily – it’s about connection, one thing that’s usually lacking within the each day grind. The most well-liked hosts within the metropolis are even handled like celebrities, with life-size posters displayed on buildings and vans.
Heads up: Kabukichō is rather more accessible and safer than it was, particularly because the metropolis cleaned up the realm. That mentioned, be cautious round golf equipment the place touts aggressively attempt to pull you inside – these are sometimes vacationer traps with unclear or very steep costs.
Seize a drink within the vigorous Golden Gai neighborhood
Only a few steps behind the bustle of Kabukichō lies Golden Gai. This neighborhood is a maze of six slim alleyways hiding greater than 200 tiny bars and cafés. At first look it appears to be like somewhat tough across the edges, however that’s precisely what offers it its allure. An evening in Golden Gai is like happening somewhat journey – behind each door is a bar with its personal persona: rock and movie themes, classic interiors, or partitions coated in outdated pictures and books. The areas are so small that they usually match not more than six to 10 folks.Step in respectfully, make eye contact with the proprietor, and politely ask if there’s room – don’t simply sit down. Don’t take it personally if a bar doesn’t allow you to in; some merely don’t have house, and locations with “Members Solely” or “No vacationers” indicators are defending their regulars. Simply transfer on to the following door – there’s lots to select from. Golden Gai actually comes alive after 10:00 PM, and amongst vacationers, the artsy “Albatross” and “Bar Champion” are standard picks.
Good to know: Costs in Golden Gai are a bit increased than common, and there’s usually a small cowl cost of 500 to 1,000 yen. The place the duvet is increased, drinks are typically somewhat cheaper, and vice versa – helpful to bear in mind should you’re planning to bar-hop or settle in for the night. Money is the norm right here.
Shibuya is all about trend, music, and nightlife, making it one among Tokyo’s most dynamic and iconic neighborhoods.
Stroll internationally’s busiest intersection: Shibuya Crossing
That is maybe essentially the most iconic road scene in all of Japan – and because of its neon-lit backdrop, it frequently exhibits up in movies and media. The second the visitors gentle turns inexperienced, an estimated 2,500 folks cross concurrently in each path. It’s organized chaos that resolves itself inside a couple of minutes, as if nothing occurred. To really expertise the crossing, you’ll in fact wish to cross it your self. However simply as spectacular is the view from above.
Shibuya Sky is undoubtedly essentially the most spectacular spot to see Shibuya from above. From the open-air commentary deck on the forty seventh ground of the Shibuya Scramble Sq. constructing, you look out over all of Tokyo with the bustling crossing beneath. The view is particularly magical round sundown. Reserving nicely upfront for Shibuya Sky is a should.
MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 is a lesser-known however wonderful different to Shibuya Sky. You’ll discover this viewpoint on the prime of a shopping center. Head as much as the café on the seventh ground, pay the doorway payment (which features a drink), and benefit from the view.
Sip a creative espresso at Café Reissue
Tucked into the Harajuku neighborhood, amongst trend boutiques and streetwear shops, is a café that turns your espresso right into a small inventive expertise: Café Reissue. The baristas listed here are true artists. Utilizing milk, foam, and a tiny spoon, they rework your favourite character, pet, or photograph right into a miniature masterpiece floating on prime of your cappuccino. From cute cats and cartoon characters to portraits of celebrities – nothing is just too bold. You’ll be able to even have your individual photograph recreated as a 3D latte artwork.The café is small and standard, so arrive early or exterior of lunchtime to keep away from a wait. They settle for money solely and are closed on Mondays.
Go-kart by neon-lit Shibuya
Road karting by Tokyo may simply be essentially the most distinctive method to discover the Japanese capital. Neglect a peaceful amusement park journey – this can be a actual highway expertise the place you zip by the guts of the town in a low-riding kart, weaving alongside taxis, buses, and Tokyo visitors. You’re actually eye-level with the town. Wearing a colourful costume, you hop within the kart and comply with a information in a small group previous iconic hotspots like Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Tower, Odaiba, and Asakusa. Able to tear by Tokyo your self?
Heads up: You’ll want a world driver’s license to drive on public roads in Japan. For those who’re from the US, you possibly can get hold of one by AAA earlier than your journey.
Asakusa is the a part of Tokyo the place time appears to have stood nonetheless. Whereas different neighborhoods are outlined by neon lights and skyscrapers, Asakusa nonetheless breathes the spirit of the outdated Edo interval: the Japan of wood homes, temple bells, and road distributors promoting conventional snacks. For those who’re searching for a extra genuine aspect of Tokyo, that is your neighborhood!
Go to Senso-ji Temple
The center of Asakusa is Senso-ji Temple, the oldest and most visited temple in Tokyo. Stroll by the Kaminarimon gate with its huge pink lantern towards the primary temple corridor. Draw an omikuji (a fortune slip) and soak within the vitality of this sacred place. The temple grounds are open 24/7, however come early within the morning or late within the night when every little thing is fantastically lit up, to expertise it in peace.After your go to, head down Nakamise-dori, Japan’s oldest purchasing road – a vigorous stretch filled with stalls promoting souvenirs, followers, kimonos, and Japanese sweets. Strive a melon pan (candy bread with a crispy crust) or ningyo-yaki (small crammed truffles formed like dolls). Make certain to cease and eat them on the spot, since strolling and consuming on the identical time is taken into account dangerous etiquette in Japan. Between 9:00 and 10:00 AM, all of the little outlets open up and it will get busy quick.
Take within the view from Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo’s tallest construction
At 634 meters (2,080 ft), Tokyo Skytree is the tallest construction in Japan. You’ll be able to spot it from virtually each neighborhood within the metropolis, however the perfect expertise goes up your self. The Skytree has two commentary decks: the Tembo Deck at 350 meters (1,148 ft) and the Tembo Galleria at 450 meters (1,476 ft). The views are breathtaking – on a transparent day, you possibly can even spot Mount Fuji within the distance. Simply earlier than sundown is essentially the most magical time, while you watch the day flip to nighttime and the town lights slowly flicker on. It’s finest to e book your tickets upfront to keep away from lengthy strains.
Tip: In your method to Tokyo Skytree, take a second to stroll by Sumida Park, which gives a fantastic view of the towering construction. In spring, the park is full of blooming cherry timber – one of the lovely spots to have a good time hanami (flower viewing). In summer season, it’s the proper place to observe the Sumida River Fireworks Competition, normally held on the final Saturday of July.
Catch a sumo present in Tokyo
Whereas the official sumo tournaments (basho) happen on the Ryogoku Kokugikan Area close by, sumo exhibits are frequently organized in Asakusa – making it perfect for vacationers who wish to expertise the game up shut with out attending a multi-day match. In the course of the Sumo Present with Japanese dinner, you’ll not solely watch actual sumo wrestlers in motion, but in addition study concerning the customs and rituals surrounding the game: the ceremonial salt-throwing, the stance earlier than the bout, and the spectacular energy and strategy of the athletes. Afterward, you possibly can usually problem a wrestler your self, take pictures with them, or ask questions by the information. Dinner is included with the present, so no have to eat beforehand.
Tokyo is a gigantic metropolis with a staggering variety of eating places. Beneath you’ll discover my 13 favorites. Some have a number of places; for others I point out the neighborhood so you possibly can simply see whether or not they’re close to you.
Ichiran Ramen – Considered one of Tokyo’s most well-known ramen chains with many places all through the town. You customise your individual bowl of ramen along with your most well-liked elements.
Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka (Shibuya) – A contemporary sushi conveyor belt restaurant with tablets and lightning-fast lanes that ship your sushi in seconds.
Ain Soph. Journey (Shinjuku) – A classy restaurant serving inventive vegan Japanese fusion dishes like tofu burgers and matcha pancakes.
Teppan Child (Shinjuku) – Watch them put together okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake) proper in entrance of you on a big iron griddle.
Vegan Bistro Jangara (Shibuya) – Strive among the finest vegan tacos, grilled tofu, ramen, and curries within the metropolis.
Gyukatsu Motomura – This restaurant chain is thought for its gyukatsu: crispy deep-fried beef cutlets that you simply end grilling your self on the desk.
Tofu Ukai (Minato-ku) – A relaxed and stylish restaurant close to Tokyo Tower that revolves solely round tofu. You order a kaiseki menu (a multi-course tasting menu) during which tofu is ready differently with every course.
LaVASARA CAFE&GRILL (Asakusa) – Craving Italian meals? That is the place to go.
Afuri – This stylish ramen restaurant has a number of places throughout Tokyo and is thought for its gentle yuzu shio ramen with a contemporary citrus twist, served in a smooth fashionable setting.
Tsukishima Monja Moheji Honten (Chuo) – That is the place you attempt monjayaki (the creamier cousin of okonomiyaki) – a skinny batter with cabbage and fillings cooked proper on the griddle at your desk.
Blue Bottle Espresso – The go-to breakfast spot in Tokyo! The inside is tremendous fashionable, the espresso is great, and the breakfast choices are scrumptious. A number of places out there.
Katsukura Shinjuku Takashimaya (Shinjuku) – Refined tonkatsu (Japanese breaded pork cutlet) produced from premium meat, served with freshly floor sesame and house-made sauce.
Vegan Gyoza (Taito) – This cozy spot is all about colourful vegan gyoza with stunning fillings. Each gyoza is available in a unique enjoyable coloration!
For those who love being in the midst of the motion across the clock, the Shinjuku and Shibuya neighborhoods are nice decisions. Shinjuku is a neighborhood of many faces: from izakayas in slim alleyways to skyscrapers with sweeping views, and it gives easy accessibility to trains and subways heading to each nook of the town. Shibuya feels a bit youthful and extra energetic, with loads of outlets, hotspots, and that quintessential Tokyo buzz. Step out of your resort and also you’re proper within the thick of metropolis life.For those who’d favor a quieter, extra conventional aspect of Tokyo, the Asakusa neighborhood is a good base. Right here you’ll stroll between temples and outdated streets and expertise a beautiful native environment. Lodging costs right here additionally are typically a bit decrease than within the neighborhoods above. The one factor to bear in mind is that Asakusa isn’t essentially the most centrally positioned – it sits on the japanese aspect of Tokyo. Getting from Asakusa to Shinjuku or Shibuya by subway takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
In search of a comfy place to remain within the Shibuya neighborhood? Then Lodge Graphy Shibuya is the highest decide! The placement is properly central – near Shibuya station and the crossing, however tucked right into a quiet nook. A fantastic bonus is the shared house on the seventh ground with a big balcony, pool desk, and bar, the place you possibly can simply meet different vacationers, particularly throughout the each day completely satisfied hour. Want to remain proper within the coronary heart of Tokyo’s buzz? Then the trendy APA Lodge Higashi Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower in Shinjuku is an ideal match. You’re surrounded by eating places, outlets, and neon chaos, but as soon as contained in the resort it’s surprisingly quiet. A number of subway and JR stations are inside strolling distance, so you possibly can zip throughout all of Tokyo with ease. The rooms are snug with particularly cozy beds due to the thick mattress toppers. One other large plus is the massive spa and onsen – the proper method to unwind after a packed day in Tokyo. The b Asakusa is a brand-new, fashionable resort proper within the coronary heart of the Asakusa neighborhood. It’s steps away from charming streets with nice eateries and outlets, and a number of other subway stations are inside strolling distance. A scrumptious breakfast buffet is served each morning, and every night visitors obtain a complimentary snack on the entrance desk.
