Things To Do In Tokyo
Whether you’re a techno buff or want to take in some more traditional Japanese sights and sounds, this city can offer it all. Visit splendid Shinto shrines or indulge in some shopping on Tokyo’s equivalent of Fifth Avenue.
oneinchpunch/Shutterstock.comMeiji-jingu
This nationally recognized Shinto shrine is considered one of Japan’s primary symbols of the country’s major religion. Take in the huge 11-meter cypress tree torii (gate) before wandering peacefully along winding paths to the wonderful inner buildings.
Nattee Chalermtiragool/Shutterstock.comMt Fuji and Hakone 1-Day
Escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and diskover Japan's natural wonders around World Heritage Mount Fuji and Hakone in just one day. Visit the 5th Station of Mt Fuji, explore the Ninja House, and relax in a Japanese Garden. Later, experience the vibrant energy of Owakudani, the Great Boiling Valley, go for a landscape ride on a sky gondola then feel the breeze from a Lake Ashi cruise.
Sean Pavone/ShutterstockSenso-ji
The Senso-ji temple is an old-town Buddhist institution. Though a major tourist attraction, this is primarily a traditional, local site where worshipers cast coins, clap ceremoniously and bow in respect to an image of Kannon, the Goddess of Compassion.
IM_photo/Shutterstock.comKabuki-za
This stylised theater performance consists of elaborate choreography and make-up combined with colorful traditional nagauta music. The plays are dramatic and exciting, though, in the 17th century, female kabuki performers were banned - men now play the roles of both genders most convincingly.
LO Kin-hei/Shutterstock.comShibuya Crossing
Crossing the streets in front of the Shibuya Station is an experience on its own. Approximately 2.500 people cross the road at a time. Many street artists gather in this area to show their performances. You can also find the statue of the famous and loyal dog Hachikō between the station and the intersection.
f11photo/Shutterstock.comGo-Kart Tour
Experience Tokyo in a fun and unique way on a street go-kart tour dressed in costume from your favorite game or anime character. Zip past iconic landmarks such as the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower, and enjoy stunning views of Tokyo Bay.
Foodforthoughts/ShutterstockSumo Wrestling
Sumo wrestling is possibly Japan’s most recognized cultural event. Dating back 2.000 years, Sumo is the country’s national sport, and as such combines religious, athletic, and traditional features. There are several places to watch, check the tour schedule on their website to find out which suits you best. There is also a Sumo museum.
J. Henning Buchholz/Shuttertstock.comTokyo National Museum
For a taste of Japanese history, this is where you’ll find Japan’s largest collection of Asian artifacts. The main gallery, Honkan, displays an impressive assortment of swords, masks, wood-block prints and kimonos while other "don’t miss" features include the 7th-century bronze-seated Buddhas in the Horyu-ji Homotusukan.
thebunwangs/Shutterstock.comMori Art Museum
At the top of Mori Tower in the vast Roppongi Hills, this one of the major contemporary art museums in Tokyo combines breathtaking views with fresh artistic talent. Of particular note are the visual projections allowing guests to traverse through virtual imagery and environments. Also includes The Sun cafe, The Moon restaurant, a gift shop and a panoramic observation deck.
J. Henning Buchholz/Shutterstock.comEdo-tokyo Museum
The museum is situated close to the sumo stables so there’s a chance you bump into the odd wrestling professional on your way to the Edo. Inside, a more thorough glimpse of Tokyo’s history is revealed, with exhibits depicting events like the 1923 Great Kanto earthquake and traditional scenes from everyday life.
jumoobo/Shutterstock.comShinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen is a popular park among tourists and locals alike and no wonder why - it is one of Tokyo's largest parks. With a large number of cherry (Sakura) trees and amazing greenhouses with tropical and subtropical flowers. This traditional Japanese landscape garden is the ultimate escape for relaxation.
Patryk Kosmider/Shutterstock.comTokyo Great Cycling Tour
If you would like to discover the city in a different way, this might be something for you - explore the city with a bike. Tokyo Great Cycling Tour is a guided tour which will take you to the major tourist spots in Tokyo. This will definitely be a fun way to see Tokyo.
maroke/Shutterstock.comTokyo Disneyland
This amazing fantasyland also exists in Tokyo; a paradise for young and old. Tokyo Disneyland offers seven themed lands like the Adventureland where you can enjoy a jungle cruise or why not explore the Westernland and go on the roller-coaster called Mine Train? There is also the area called Fantasyland where you can wander around at Prince Charming and Cinderella´s castle. In addition, there is Tokyo DisneySea which is located in Tokyo Disney Resort. It also provides seven themed ports with lots of fun for all ages.
SweetLeMontea/Shuttertstock.comNational Museum of Nature and Science
The National Museum of Nature and Science covers both science and natural history. Here you can learn more about the history of Japan's science and technology and the history of Earth. The dinosaur displays are especially popular among children. Be sure not to miss the 360-degree theatre.
Sarunyu L/Shuttertstock.comKabukicho
Shinjuku's red-light district, Kabukicho, is worth visiting even only for the spectacle of neon signs that brighten its alleys when the sun sets. From a roaring Godzilla head to a robot-themed restaurant, this bizarre location doesn't hold back in giving a unique experience to its visitors.
Lifestyle Travel Photo/ShutterstockRainbow Bridge
For a stunning view over Tokyo's harbor, you should head over to Rainbow Bridge. It is 798 meters long. There are some lookouts at various locations where you can take beautiful pictures. During the nighttime, the bridge is lit up with colorful lights - very romantic! Be sure not to forget your camera!
Travel mania/Shutterstock.comUeno Zoo
Ueno Zoo is the oldest zoo in Japan. It was founded in 1882 and today it holds 3000 animals, more than 400 different species and provides all visitors a learning experience. In the East area, you will find pandas, animals in Japan, mammal, and ocean creatures. In the West area, you will find African animals, reptiles, small mammals, and a children's zoo.
Satit Soithongcharoen/Shutterstock.comJapanese Cooking Classes
If you really want to dive into the Japanese culture, you can't miss out on getting to know local cuisine and culinary traditions that go back centuries. There are several locations for Japanese cooking classes across Tokyo, some of which include: Maikoya - Kimono Tea Ceremony (& cooking lessons) Kabukicho 9F, Tokyo +81 362 738 818 Nobu Restaurant located in the Toranomon Towers Office +81 357 330 070
Orest Drozda/Shutterstock.comYebisu Beer Museum
In this museum, you will learn the history of the Yebisu beer, first produced in 1890 in the namesake neighborhood in Tokyo. Partake in a guided tour or stroll through the museum on your own and end the tour in the tasting corner, where you can purchase 6 different kinds of brews, produced in the Yebisu halls.
View Apart/Shutterstock.com