The Essential Tokyo Bucket List
Even after 10 years of traveling around the globe to new and exciting places, Tokyo continues to reign as my favorite city. The harmonious blend of vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and an unlimited number of attractions make it the best urban metropolis to visit. With a population of over 37 million, Tokyo is the world’s largest city and most likely your first stop when visiting Japan. Building upon our first Top 10 Tokyo Blog, this guide will expand the horizons of our past travel experiences and help you explore the eccentric city with a renewed perspective. Here are the top 25 best things to do in Tokyo!
Tokyo Top 25
25. Harajuku – Check out the quirky shops loaded with unique fashion as you walk your way down Takeshita Street, indulging in all kinds of tasty dessert snacks like cotton candy, crepes, candied fruits, and a cheesy coin pancake.
24. Giant Gundam Robot – Take a trip out to Odaiba where you’ll find a giant robot from the Gundam anime overlooking the Tokyo Bay.
23. Meiji Shrine – Find your Zen at this oasis of calm with a majestic temple located directly in the city.
22. Dance the Night Away in Roppongi Hills – One of the best districts to enjoy the nightlife Tokyo is so famous for is in the eclectic bars of Roppongi from modern clubs to reggaetón dive bars.
21. Ginza – Tokyo’s premier shopping district, Ginza boasts luxury boutiques, department stores, and fine dining often compared to New York’s 5th Avenue.
20. Ueno Park – This enormous park has museums, a zoo and the most sakura trees in the entire city, especially beautiful during peak cherry blossom season. There’s also a statue dedicated to Saigo Takamori, the REAL last samurai.
19. Grab a drink at Golden Gai – Drinking in Shinjuku’s Golden Gai area is the quintessential Japan barhopping experience. The narrow alleys and snug 5 person bars are great for making new friends.
18. Tsukiji Outer Market – Despite being replaced as the fish auction capital of Japan by the Toyosu Market, You can still try some of the freshest sushi in the world at the remaining shops and restaurants.
17. Edo Castle – Take a guided tour of the Imperial Palace to gain insight into the country’s tumultuous past. Keep in mind the tours operate at 9am & 12:30pm and are closed Mondays and Sundays.
16. Eat Ramen – Ramen is one of the most iconic foods to try synonymous with Japanese cuisine. Despite being hard pressed to find anything that’s not delicious, Ichiran is one of the most famous places to get a bowl.
15. Take a Day Trip to Mount Fuji – The sacred volcanic mountain Fujisan is an iconic symbol of Japan not too far from downtown Tokyo. An epic day tour of the most scenic viewing spots or a hike to the summit is sure to elevate your Tokyo experience.
14. Godzilla’s Head – Head to the 8th floor of the Hotel Gracery in the Kabukicho area in Shinjuku to see the massive fire-breathing Godzilla head up close. Keep in mind entrance to the café is between 12pm – 8pm.
13. Hei Shrine – A Shinto shrine in the Chiyoda prefecture of Tokyo, the tunnels of red tori gates give off similar vibes to the temples in Kyoto.
12. Daikeizan Gōtoku-ji – Despite being a 30min train ride outside downtown, this Buddhist temple is also known as the cat temple as evident by the thousands of cat figurines scattered throughout.
11. Shinjuku Gyoen National Park – This sprawling garden in Shinjuku offers intricate Japanese landscape designs and a beautiful place to relax and enjoy nature, especially during the full sakura bloom.
10. Akihabara – Also known as Electric Town, this flashy district offers a plethora of tech gadgets, anime shops, and the multi-level Sega arcades. It is a must for anime lovers. It even has a Monster Hunter themed Cafe / Bar!
9. Omoide Yokocho – Also known as Memory Alley, wandering thru the narrow streets will transport you back in time to much simpler days. Here you’ll find tons of small bars & shops grilling up yakitori (chicken skewers).
8. Shop at Shibuya Parco – The Shibuya Parco Mall has a diverse array of luxury stores but the main attraction on the 6th floor is every gamer’s paradise. Here you’ll find the official Nintendo, Pokémon, Capcom, and Shonen Jump stores where you can buy random stuff from all your favorite franchises.
7. Tokyo Tower – Inspired by the iconic Eiffel Tower, Tokyo Tower is a homage to the world famous French edifice that shines in the city skyline. Be sure to purchase tickets to the top here. For great views of the tower check out the free observation deck on the 33rd floor at Azubudai Hills.
6. Scramble across the Shibuya Crossing – Quite possible the world’s most notorious crosswalk, scurrying across this busy intersection will resonate your soul with the breath of the city. For the best views, head to the top of the Shibuya Sky observation deck to witness the madness from above. Be sure to reserve at least a month in advance!
5. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building – This is the 5th tallest structure in the city and offers great views of the city for free! It also has one of the world’s largest permanent projection light displays every night from 7pm – 9:15pm.
4. Sensoji Temple – Located in Asakusa, Sensō-ji is Tokyo’s oldest temple. The approach through the Nakamise shopping street offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture with its array of shops selling souvenirs and snacks. For the best views, check out the free observation deck across the street at the Asakusa Culture and Tourist Information Center.
3. Tokyo Skytree – Ascend Japan’s tallest building, soaring to a height of 634 meters into the sky for an unbeatable perspective on the city. On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance! Book your tickets in advance here.
2. Teamlab Planets Tokyo – The digital art exhibit at Teamlab Planets is an unparalleled immersive sensory overload. Be sure to reserve tickets at least a month in advance since the time entry sells out quickly. For even more futuristic digital art, check out the newer Teamlab Borderless. Check out our full experience inside the exhibit here!
1. Ride Go-Karts Around Tokyo – The best way to immerse yourself in the spirit of the city is by zipping around the streets in a go-kart dressed as your favorite anime character. Sign up for your exclusive real-life Mariokart costumed tour across Tokyo here! Keep in mind you’ll need an international driver’s permit to participate in the activity.
Tokyo is a radiant metropolis that constantly reinvents itself while honoring its rich past. Each visit unveils new experiences that may take more than a lifetime to discover. Whether you’re drawn to its ancient temples, cutting-edge technology, or the glorious Japanese gastronomy, Tokyo promises an transformative experience you won’t ever forget. Maybe one day I’ll visit a place capable of de-throning this incredible city but until then, Tokyo is number one. For more tips on planning your trip to Japan and avoiding culture shock, check out this travel guide. Thanks for reading and keep leveling up!
Check out some of the best things to do in Tokyo in part 1 of our Tokyo bucket list tour!
Here’s part 2 of our Tokyo Bucket List with even more amazing sights!
Find out how we rank each of our 21 favorite things to do in Tokyo here!
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