As the vibrant capital of Japan, Tokyo pulsates with an energy that is truly unparalleled. Whether you're captivated by the traditional arts or technological innovations, or simply seeking to indulge your taste buds, here at Urban List, we think Tokyo promises an unforgettable adventure with so much to see and do.
Here are the best things to do in Tokyo.
Take A Dip In An Onsen
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Not taking a dip in one of Japan’s various hot springs is almost identical to saying that you visited the country without feasting on sushi or ramen. Unbelievable. After all, a long day of taking in everything that Tokyo has to offer is most definitely exciting but can be tiring. And there is no better way to soothe sore muscles and tiredness than relaxing in the hot springs with soothing medicinal benefits.
If you are brave enough to enter the many local sentos (scattered around town, you might also find some with hot spring waters (onsen) sources from the mountains. Otherwise, a trip to nearby onsen towns can also be the perfect way to recharge and relax. Located about 80 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, Hakone is one of the most famous onsen towns nearby.
It offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, picturesque landscapes, and a variety of hot spring resorts. Nikko, although primarily known for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Toshogu Shrine and Nikko National Park, actually also has several onsen resorts with healing waters.
Explore Museums And Cultural Treasures
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Tokyo is steeped in history and culture, and its museums offer a glimpse into the country's creative scene. The city offers a wide array of cultural and artistic experiences, and there are so many museums worth exploring — rain, hail or shine.
Dedicated to the works of the legendary Hayao Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli, the Ghibli Museum, features original artwork, animations, and interactive exhibits that provide insight into the creative process behind beloved Ghibli films like My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away. If you’d like to visit, make sure you reserve your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment (it is very popular and you won’t be able to head in if you show up without a reservation).
TeamLab exhibitions offer an extraordinary fusion of technology, art, and interactive installations. Renowned for their immersive displays, TeamLab creates digital art experiences where visitors become part of the artwork through touch, movement, and sights and sounds. Blurring the boundaries between the physical and digital realms, these exhibitions invite visitors to explore mesmerising projections, interactive light installations, and immersive environments that are out of this world.
Sky high views and art? It doesn’t get better than this! Located on the top floors of the Mori Tower in the bustling Roppongi Hills complex, the Mori Art Museum showcases contemporary art from both local and international artists. With its stunning panoramic views of the city, it offers a unique setting to appreciate a diverse range of exhibitions, installations, and multimedia artworks.
Slurp Down Some Ramen
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Arguably one of Japan’s best foods, you definitely need to slurp down a few bowls of ramen whilst you are in Tokyo. Stroll down the street and you will probably spy a ramen restaurant in near sight. For some of the best places for your next ramen fix, consider the following.
Ichiran, with its various branches scattered around Tokyo, is a fan favourite and the perfect place to indulge in a bowl of creamy pork noods if you are an introvert. With stools sectioned individually where your ramen will be slid across to you individually uncover the covers, without even having to interact with the waiter, giving you maximum privacy so you can enjoy your meal in peace.
Offering a variety of tonkotsu ramen options, Kyushu Jangara is known for its creamy and porky broth, serving up authentic Kyushu style Tonkotsu ramen. They also have a range of customisable toppings to suit your preferences so you can spice up your ramen the way you’d like.
For vegan friends, T’s Tan Tan Ramen is a must visit. Conveniently located within major transport hubs like Tokyo station and Ueno station, ich creamy sesame flavour broth is full of umami and so tasty. Besides ramen, the restaurant also offers soy meat meals and dumplings for more vegan deliciousness.
Those seeking an immersive art experience should check out Vegan Ramen Uzu. In collaboration with Team Lab, this restaurant challenges the stereotype of ramen as fast food as we all know it, by inviting diners to practice the art of mindful and slow eating, whilst taking in the surrounding LED light installation.
Escape To One Of Tokyo's Many Themed Cafes And Restaurants
For an only in Japan experience that is equally entertaining as unique, look no further than themed or character cafes. These cafes are unlike anything we have in Australia—the catch is that they really take the whole themed thing seriously. From restaurant decor, to food and menu items to interaction with staff, everything really is on theme.
If you’ve ever wondered what growing up in a Japanese school was like, look no further than Year 6, Class 4, a primary school izakaya (bar) where the waitresses transforms into your school teacher, you are given a test to take (whilst you have a bevy or two) and you are transported back to classrooms that are designed to replicate different subjects.
If you are a big fan of Japanese trains, you aren’t alone. There is also an izakaya for that. Little TVG Izakaya in Akihabara is the place to visit for train enthusiasts. Attention to detail is found throughout — from the interior reminiscent of a vintage train, to the menu designed to replicate Tokyo’s metro lines and beverages created with the same colour scheme as Japan’s beloved bullet trains.
Fascinated by ninjas, shadows and the unexplainable? Ninja Tokyo offers a dining experience that will transport you into the world of the ninjas. Mystery excludes the moment you step into the restaurant as a ninja pops out of nowhere to guide you through to your seat. The magic doesn’t stop there — throughout your course meal, the ninja performs unbelievable tricks for a spectacular show. Who knew playing with your food could be this fun?
Thrift Up A Storm In Tokyo’s Trendy Neighbourhoods
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Thrifting in Tokyo offers a treasure trove of unique and one of a kind items. From vintage fashion pieces to quirky accessories, freshen up your wardrobe space by bringing home gems that reflect the city’s distinct style and fashion trends.
Located west of central Tokyo, Shimokitazawa is renowned for its vibrant thrift store scene. The neighborhood is packed with small, independent vintage shops, second hand clothing stores, and trendy boutiques.Harajuku Chicago Shimokitazawa is a multi floor thrift store that offers a vast selection of local and international fashion pieces. Meanwhile, Flamingo offers a fun mix of funky 70s outfits to trendy 90s fashion, it is the place to visit for everything retro and vintage.
Just a few train stops away from Shinjuku, Koenji is another popular neighborhood for thrift shopping. It has a bohemian and retro atmosphere with a wide range of vintage clothing stores, antique shops, and quirky boutiques. Bazz Store is a much loved thrift shop that focuses on streetwear and urban fashion. It offers a mix of vintage and contemporary clothing with brands from all over the world. Meanwhile, Spank! specialises in alternative and subculture fashion. It features a wide range of punk, gothic, Lolita, and other niche styles, making it a haven for those seeking edgier looks.
Known for its unique fashion and street style, Harajuku is home to various thrift stores catering to different styles and tastes. Takeshita Street and the surrounding area are particularly popular for thrift shopping. Kinji offers a wide selection of second hand clothing, shoes, and accessories — you really can spend hours here. It's known for its trendy and fashionable items, making it a favourite among fashion forward locals and travellers alike.
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For Everything Electronics, Head To Akihabara
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Akihabara, also known as Tokyo's Electric Town, is an iconic neighborhood that holds immense appeal for tech enthusiasts, anime and manga fans, and gamers alike. The district's wide array of electronics shops offers an unparalleled selection of cutting edge gadgets, computer components, and tech related goods, attracting those who seek and love the latest technology trends. Akihabara's fame in the anime and manga world is unrivaled, as it is home to numerous specialty stores where fans can discover a treasure trove of merchandise, collectibles, manga volumes, and character goods.
A stroll along the streets of Akihabara and you cannot miss the maids outside inviting you to experience a unique Japan phenomenon, maid cafes. Maid cafes, with their interactive and engaging dining experiences led by waitresses dressed as maids, have become a symbol of Akihabara's unique charm. Gaming enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise within Akihabara's bustling arcades, which offer an extensive selection of arcade games and claw machines.
Marvel At The Majestic Mount Fuji
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There is something just so magical about mountains and Japan’s beloved national landmark is well worth the trip. Fuji—san can be admired, near and far across multiple nearby prefectures and even from Tokyo on a bright, clear and sunny day.
However, if you prefer to find a bit of stillness and calm, we’d suggest you make a day trip out of it. Just around 1.5 hours away, Lake Kawaguchiko provides a stunning backdrop of natural beauty where calm waters of the lake reflect the majestic mountain, creating a picture perfect setting as you take it all in the area’s surrounding hotels and inns.
The Chureito Pagoda stands as an unrivaled vantage point for capturing the quintessential view of Mount Fuji. Perched on the mountainside, this five story pagoda offers an awe inspiring panorama of Fujiyoshida City and the majestic Mount Fuji in the distance. Meanwhile, Fujiyoshida Honcho Street located in Fujiyoshida is not only great for souvenir shopping, but it also offers a unique vantage point of a retro shopping street with Fuji—san looming in the backdrop.
Discover Tranquility In Tokyo’s Surrounds On These Day Trips
If the hustle and bustle of Tokyo’s sprawling metropolis is getting just a little too much, consider a day trip to one of the nearby destinations for one of the best day trips in tokyo.
Those seeking an escape towards nature should consider a hike to Mount Takao. With numerous trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, each walk takes only a few hours to complete and offers a welcoming breath of fresh air from the never ending crowds of Tokyo. If you are ever around from October — November, the area transforms into a breathtaking landscape of Autumn foliage that is a scene to behold.
For arts and tradition lovers, Kanazawa is a great town to check out. Known as the ‘City Of Gold and Craftsmen’ the area is renowned for its hosts of crafty traditions where the knowledge of the art has been passed down from generation to generation. Try your hand at gold leaf crafting at one of the numerous workshops available to take home your own unique memory of Kanazawa with you.
Those who miss the beach should check out the little seaside town of Enoshima. Known for its fresh seafood — feast on local delicacies, croquettes filled with shirasu, grilled squid rice crackers and odango at Benten Nakamise Dori Street. The Iwaya Caves are such a fun area to explore with tunnels of caves located right by the ocean for you to discover as you spend your day by the sea.
Take All Of Tokyo In At These Rooftop Views
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As a megacity that stretches far beyond the eye can see, there is no better way to appreciate and grasp how expansive Tokyo is than from high up. For some well loved paid views, the recently opened Shibuya Sky offers a spectacular open air rooftop of Tokyo's glistening skyline.
Situated at a height of approximately 230 meters above ground level, the observation deck offers a 360 degree panoramic view, allowing you to take in the cityscape from all angles. One of the highlights of Shibuya Sky is its glass floor section. This transparent flooring allows visitors to look straight down from the observation deck. Hot Tip: For sunset times, make sure you book well in advance to avoid missing out.
Located on the 52nd floor of Mori Tower in Roppongi Hills, Tokyo City View is another indoor observation deck that offers panoramic views of Tokyo's skyline. It provides a 360 degree view, including landmarks such as Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree. Just a bit up above, Sky Deck is the outdoor observation area located on the rooftop of Mori Tower. It offers an open—air experience, allowing visitors to feel the breeze and take in unobstructed views of the city. When is another time you would be able to stand on a heli—pad high up above Tokyo?
For some other rooftops that do not cost a dim, the Shinjuku Government Building allows visitors to enjoy free views 202 meters up high, which is a great alternative for budget conscious travellers. If the sky is clear, you might even see Fuji—san from here. The Asakusa Culture and Tourist Information Center features an observation deck that offers panoramic views of Asakusa and its surroundings. From the deck, you can enjoy a bird's eye view of landmarks like Senso—ji Temple, Tokyo Skytree, and the Sumida River. It's a great spot for capturing stunning photographs and appreciating the beauty of the neighborhood (especially during sunset).
Feast On Everything Seafood At Tsukiji Market
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A visit to Tsukiji Market offers a glimpse into the vibrant and lively atmosphere of a traditional Japanese market. The hustle and bustle, the calls of the vendors, and the sheer variety of sights, sounds, and smells create an immersive cultural experience as you witness the daily hustle of fishmongers, chefs, and locals going about their business.
Although the famous early morning tuna auction has been moved to Toyosu Market, you can still visit Tsukiji Market. Explore stalls selling Japanese kitchen knives, cooking utensils, tea, spices, and other culinary related items and pick up a few pieces here and there for souvenirs. One of the most popular activities at Tsukiji Market is enjoying a sushi breakfast. You read that right—sushi for breakfast. Several sushi restaurants in and around the market offer the opportunity to savour incredibly fresh and skillfully prepared sushi made from fish caught right off the rod.
For Everything Entertainment And Shopping, Make Your Way To Odaiba
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Odaiba, a man made island in Tokyo Bay, offers a variety of attractions and activities that make it a popular destination for visitors. Those who love to shop till they drop—Odaiba’s many malls, including Aqua City, Decks Tokyo Beach and Diver City Tokyo Plaza, have got you covered. These malls house numerous stores, boutiques, and entertainment facilities so if shopping isn’t your thing, you can also catch a movie, visit amusement parks, or play arcade games.
The area is also home to several museums and exhibition spaces that cater to different interests, such as the popular teamLab Borderless, a digital art museum that offers immersive and interactive art installations. The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation provides fascinating and thought provoking exhibits on science and technology. The iconic Rainbow Bridge is also a famous viewpoint of Odaiba and in the shops, you may come across rainbow Pocky that is unique to Odaiba.
Find Stillness At One Of Tokyo’s Many Temples
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If the noise of life or travelling is getting just a little too much, a visit to one of Tokyo’s many temples provides a peaceful and serene environment to reflect, meditate, and reconnect to stillness. Many temples also have designated areas or gardens for a moment of quiet. Here are some temples around Tokyo that are worth visiting.
Located in Asakusa, Senso—ji is Tokyo's oldest and most famous Buddhist temple. It features a stunning red gate called Kaminarimon, a bustling shopping street known as Nakamise, and the main hall where visitors can make offerings and pray.
Situated in a serene forested area near Harajuku, Meiji Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle, with beautiful walking paths, a large torii gate, and traditional wooden buildings. You won’t even be able to tell that the lively streets of Harajuku is closeby.
Nestled in the residential area of Nezu, Nezu Shrine is a Shinto shrine known for its vibrant azalea garden, which blooms in spring around April/May. The shrine grounds feature vermilion torii gates, a serene pond, and charming paths that lead visitors to various prayer areas.
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