Tokyo is home to many centuries-old temples, and the most iconic is Senso-ji in Asakusa. Founded in 628, it’s the oldest in the city.

Start your visit at the famous Kaminarimon Gate and walk down Nakamise Street, where traditional snacks and souvenir shops create a lively, old-Tokyo atmosphere. It’s a spot nearly every visitor finds themselves drawn to.

Like temples, many of Tokyo’s shrines date back hundreds of years. Among them, Meiji Jingu stands out as one of the most important, located right next to Harajuku.

Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the shrine is surrounded by a vast forest of 100,000 trees donated from across Japan. Spanning 700,000 square meters, it offers a peaceful escape into nature right in the heart of the city.

During the first few days of January, over 3 million people visit for hatsumode, the year’s first shrine visit, making it the busiest in Japan. Meiji Jingu is not just a shrine—it’s a symbol of Tokyo.

Shukubo are traditional lodgings originally built for shrine visitors and monks, but today many also welcome travelers seeking a unique cultural experience. A stay at a shukubo offers the chance to try spiritual practices like meditation, prayer rituals, or waterfall purification.

In Tokyo, the most well-known area is near Mount Mitake in Ome, where over 20 shukubo inns line the paths near Musashi Mitake Shrine. One such spot, Komadori Sanso, is especially popular for its scenic views and the opportunity to experience waterfall meditation.

Step into the Edo-Tokyo Museum and you’ll be transported 400 years back to when Tokyo was known as “Edo.”

See a full-scale replica of the Nihonbashi Bridge, an Edo-period theater, and miniature models from the Meiji era—all illustrating how daily life, culture, and the city itself evolved from Edo into the Tokyo we know today.

If you're fascinated by samurai history, don’t miss the Samurai Museum in Shinjuku. The museum showcases an impressive collection of kabuto helmets, yoroi armor, swords, and weapons that trace over 700 years of samurai legacy.

Don’t miss the chance to suit up in samurai gear and snap a photo—it's one of the museum’s most popular experiences.

Information is available in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean, making it easy for international visitors to feel welcome. Beyond the exhibits, staff perform sword demonstrations and teach basic katana techniques, offering a hands-on glimpse into the spirit of the samurai.

Sumo is one of Japan’s oldest traditional sports, with a history spanning over 1,500 years. Of the six annual tournaments held across Japan, the January, May, and September matches take place at Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo—the heart of the sumo world.

This iconic arena has seen countless legendary bouts and also offers insights into the rituals and etiquette that define sumo culture. For first-time spectators, we recommend trying the masu seki box seats, where you can enjoy a meal while watching the action. Be sure to check the schedule and ticket info in advance if you plan to attend.

Watching a foreign sport can be daunting, but if you're curious, it’s well worth the experience.

도쿄에는 최신 예술들이 모여있다. 그 중에서도 예술가 집단 팀 랩이 선보이는 신개념 디지털 아트 뮤지엄은 오픈 이후 꾸준한 사랑을 받고 있다.

오다이바 ‘팀 랩 보더리스’에서는 보더리스, 즉 경계없는 세상을 표현하고 새로운 예술작품을 선보이고 있다. 또 도요스에 위치한 ‘팀 랩 플래닛 TOKYO DMM’에서는 인체와 작품의 경계가 모호해지는 ‘투입감’을 체험해 볼 수 있는 공간도 마련되어 있다.

Maid cafés are now a globally recognized symbol of Japanese pop culture. With a cheerful “Welcome home, Master and Princess,” the maids, dressed in charming outfits, greet guests with smiles and fun performances. The food menu is also surprisingly varied.

Among the many maid cafés in the area, “@Home Café Akihabara Main Store” is a great place for first-timers. All the staff receive English training, which makes it an especially welcoming spot for international visitors.

When it comes to otaku culture, Tokyo has two major hotspots: Akihabara in the east and Ikebukuro in the west. Around Ikebukuro’s landmark Sunshine City, a cluster of anime, cosplay, and doujinshi shops—especially popular among women—make up the beloved “Otome Road.”

One standout is Surugaya Ikebukuro Otomekan, supported by Meikido, offering around 130,000 items including new and secondhand anime goods and doujinshi. Rare finds pop up often, making it a fun stop even for casual fans.

Tokyo Disney Resort® is home to two world-class theme parks: Tokyo Disneyland® and Tokyo DisneySea®. From thrilling rides and dazzling shows to meet-and-greets with your favorite Disney characters, it’s a dream destination for all ages.

With seven unique themed lands, there’s far more than you can explore in a single day. Each area is packed with exciting attractions, immersive shopping, and great dining, every corner touched by Disney magic.

No trip to Japan is complete without experiencing the charm of a traditional izakaya. In Shinjuku and Shibuya, you’ll find alleys that feel like a time warp to postwar Japan.

Just a 3-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, Omoide Yokocho still retains the atmosphere of the 1940s. Likewise, Nonbei Yokocho in Shibuya is lined with tiny nostalgic bars that exude an old-school, soulful vibe. While big chains like Uotami and Warawara are everywhere, these cozy backstreets offer a more intimate, local feel.

For the freshest seafood in Tokyo, head to Toyosu or Tsukiji. Since 2018, the wholesale market and famous tuna auctions have moved from Tsukiji to Toyosu, where visitors can watch the action from observation decks.

While many restaurants also relocated, Tsukiji’s outer market still thrives with long-standing eateries and a nostalgic charm. Visit Toyosu for the auction experience, or Tsukiji for a stroll through traditional food stalls—each offers its own flavor of Tokyo.

For those eager to try Japan’s renowned wagyu beef, a yakiniku buffet is a delicious and affordable way to indulge. Many spots across Tokyo offer all-you-can-eat menus that include a wide variety of premium cuts like wagyu short rib, loin, and tongue.

You can grill each slice to your liking, dip it in savory sauces, and enjoy the rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes wagyu so special. It’s a must-try experience for meat lovers.

Sushi, a beloved dish that originated in the Edo period, is a must-try when visiting Tokyo. From traditional counter-only shops to conveyor belt sushi and buffets, the city offers endless options to suit every budget.

Many restaurants serve generous portions of fresh seafood like tuna and salmon at surprisingly reasonable prices. Whether you're seated at a classic sushi bar or trying an all-you-can-eat deal, Tokyo is the perfect place to enjoy authentic sushi in its hometown.

Inside Tokyo Station near the Yaesu Central Exit lies Tokyo Ramen Street, a collection of popular ramen shops offering a perfect pit stop during travel.

From rich seafood and pork bone broths to tsukemen (dipping noodles) and even vegan-friendly options, the variety is impressive. Some shops offer limited-edition bowls you won’t find anywhere else—making it an ideal first meal upon arriving in Tokyo.

Matcha, the finely ground green tea powder beloved in Japan, has gained global popularity—especially in desserts. Its rich, slightly bitter flavor pairs perfectly with sweetness, creating a uniquely satisfying taste.

From matcha parfaits to soft-serve and gelato, Tokyo offers countless ways to enjoy this traditional ingredient. Some specialty shops even let you choose the intensity of matcha flavor, with ultra-rich varieties offering a deep, unforgettable taste.

If Osaka is known for okonomiyaki, then Tokyo is known for monjayaki!

Said to have originated in the Edo period (1603–1868) as a snack for children, monjayaki gradually evolved into a popular dish enjoyed by adults with drinks.

This quintessential Tokyo comfort food is cooked on a hot iron griddle, where shredded cabbage and various toppings are combined with a watery flour batter. Unlike okonomiyaki, monjayaki has a thinner consistency, creating a uniquely gooey texture. Diners typically cook it themselves right at the table.

Tsukishima Monja Street is known as the birthplace of monjayaki. Stretching about 400 meters, this lively area is home to more than 60 monjayaki specialty restaurants, earning it the nickname “Monjayaki Theme Park.” If you’re curious about the taste of monjayaki, this is the perfect place to try it.

Harajuku is at the forefront of Japan’s fashion and food trends, always buzzing with trend-conscious visitors. The area is packed with stylish shops and malls, offering something to see in every direction.

A must-visit is the flagship store of Japan’s top cosmetics review site, @cosme TOKYO. This beauty haven carries over 200 brands and around 20,000 products, making it a fun and exciting stop even if you're just browsing.

Ginza is a favorite among international visitors for its blend of high-end boutiques and affordable brands like Uniqlo and GU. On weekends and holidays from 12 PM to 6 PM (until 5 PM from October to March), the main street transforms into a car-free pedestrian zone.

Enjoy the unique atmosphere while picking up souvenirs at GINZA SIX or scoring duty-free deals at Tokyu Plaza Ginza, home to Lotte Duty Free. It's a great way to combine shopping with a truly Tokyo-style street experience.

Ameyoko is one of Japan’s most iconic shopping streets, packed with everything from food stalls to fashion and household goods. With over 400 shops lining a stretch of about 500 to 600 meters, it offers an energetic and diverse shopping experience.

Located between JR Ueno and JR Okachimachi Stations, the street runs along and beneath the Yamanote Line tracks—making it easy to access and full of hidden finds.

Step off the main path into the side alleys around Ameyoko, and you’ll find a different kind of charm. In the evenings, cozy izakaya fill up with locals winding down after work—offering a glimpse into Tokyo’s everyday nightlife and a chance to experience it for yourself.

Takeshita Street in Harajuku is the heart of Tokyo’s youth culture, where everything is bursting with color and cuteness.

Lined with quirky boutiques, trendy street food, and photo-worthy treats, it's a must-visit spot for anyone curious about Japan’s playful and ever-evolving fashion scene.

The street is always buzzing with people hunting for unique fashion finds and fun accessories, and the massive 100-yen shop here is especially popular among tourists. Be sure to try a crepe from one of the many cafes lining the street—it’s a Harajuku must.

Shibuya is iconic for its bustling scramble crossing and trendsetting department stores that draw both locals and tourists.

It’s a hotspot for fashion, food, and entertainment, where neon lights, music, and crowds create the unmistakable pulse of modern Tokyo.

Everyone wants to meet at the famous Hachiko statue outside Shibuya Station. A longtime center of youth culture, Shibuya is filled with bars, restaurants, and live music venues that keep the area buzzing day and night.

It’s also close to Yoyogi Park, where on weekends you’ll spot everything from elaborate cosplay to leather-clad rockabillies. In Shibuya, there’s never a dull moment.

The neon-lit streets of Akihabara are known as Electric Town, a paradise for tech lovers. You’ll find everything from computer parts and gaming software to cameras, TVs, and phones.

Beyond electronics, Akihabara has become a global hotspot for anime and manga culture, drawing fans from around the world with its specialty shops, arcades, and themed cafés.

Odaiba Seaside Park offers a sandy beach where you can enjoy activities like windsurfing and canoeing right in the city.

It’s also a great spot to watch boats drift beneath the Rainbow Bridge and is especially popular in the evening with visitors hoping to catch a beautiful Tokyo sunset.

Nearby, you’ll find Dai-san Daiba, a historic site featuring old cannons and a former gunpowder storage area. Along the waterfront, there’s also a variety of restaurants where you can relax and enjoy a meal with a view.

Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s best spots for cherry blossoms, but it’s beautiful year-round.

While many come just to enjoy the open green space, the park is also packed with things to see and do.

Inside, you’ll find Kaneiji Temple, historic graves, Toshogu Shrine, museums, art galleries, and even a zoo. As one of Japan’s first designated public parks, it also features lovely flower beds, ponds, and fountains perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Shinjuku Gyoen is a beautifully maintained national garden in the heart of Tokyo and one of the city’s top spots for cherry blossoms.

The park blends three distinct styles: traditional Japanese, French formal, and English landscape gardens. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, while winter offers serene views of snow-dusted pines in the Japanese garden.

It’s a peaceful retreat that can be enjoyed year-round.

Right above the iconic crossing, MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 offers a lesser-known rooftop spot, CROSSING VIEW & ROOFTOP LOUNGE MAG8, where you can watch the organized chaos unfold below.

For an unforgettable memory, you can even book a photo service (1,800 yen) that captures you with the scramble as your dramatic backdrop.

A beloved landmark for both locals and tourists, Tokyo Tower offers stunning views from above along with seasonal light displays inside its observation decks.

In 2019, the 150-meter-high Main Deck was fully renovated, with refreshed windows, flooring, and fixtures. After taking in the view, browse for exclusive souvenirs or enjoy live music at CLUB333 on the first floor of the Main Deck.

Tokyo Skytree®, Japan’s tallest structure at 634 meters, is a modern icon offering panoramic views from its observation decks, along with restaurants and souvenir shops.

On clear days, you can see up to 75 kilometers from the upper deck—sometimes even Mount Fuji. Sunset views and glittering city lights make evening visits especially breathtaking.

For a truly memorable Tokyo trip, why not choose a hotel that offers both convenience and incredible views? A stay near a major station with skyline vistas adds something special to your experience.

High-rise hotels like those near Tokyo Station often feature floor-to-ceiling windows, giving you front-row seats to breathtaking nightscapes. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

One of the best free activities in Tokyo is visiting the observation decks at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

At 202 meters above ground, you can take in sweeping city views—and even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji on clear days.

Open until 11 PM, it’s also a great spot to enjoy the sparkling city lights after dark without spending a yen.

Since 1733, crowds have gathered along the Sumida River to enjoy fireworks in the summer.

Today, it remains one of Tokyo’s largest fireworks festivals, held every July with a mix of traditional and innovative displays lighting up the sky.

Streets can get crowded, so one of the best ways to view the show is from a cruise boat on the river as fireworks burst overhead.

(This article was originally researched in the past and partially updated in June 2025. For the latest details, please check each official website.)