Tokyo can feel overwhelming at first, given its vast expanse from the sea to the mountains. To help you navigate this sprawling metropolis, we’ve curated a list of must-see attractions.
Summit Japan’s Tallest Tower (above image)
Tokyo Skytree, the tallest and newest landmark in Japan, is impossible to miss while exploring the city. The tower features two observation decks at 350 and 450 meters, offering stunning panoramic views of Tokyo. At the base of the Skytree is Tokyo Skytree Town, which includes an aquarium, planetarium, museums, shops, and dining options. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji from the top.
Pilgrimage to Narita-san Temple
Upon arriving in Tokyo, you’ll most likely land at Narita Airport, located in the eastern outskirts of the city. Before heading into Tokyo, consider taking a short 20-minute trip to the nearby town of Narita. There, you’ll find the historic Narita-san Temple perched on a hill. Take a moment to soak in the fragrant incense and offer a prayer for good luck and health at this thousand-year-old temple.
Rickshaw Ride through Historic Asakusa
Asakusa offers a glimpse into the old Tokyo. You can take a rickshaw ride for ¥8000 or simply explore the area on foot. The iconic Kaminari Gate, the symbol of Asakusa, was built over a thousand years ago. Passing through the massive lantern, you’ll walk down the famous Nakamise Shopping Street, lined with more than fifty souvenir shops. At the end of the street, you’ll reach Sensoji Temple, one of the oldest and most revered temples in Tokyo, and still the most visited in the city.
Romantic Cruise Around Tokyo Bay
The Tokyo Bay Symphony Cruise departs from Hinode Terminal near JR Hamamatsu-cho Station. There are four different cruises available: Lunch, Afternoon, Sunset, and Dinner Cruise. Whichever you choose, you will be able to enjoy the city skyline of Tokyo as you relax on the ship’s deck and enjoy your meal. The Sunset and Dinner Cruises have a romantic atmosphere where the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower light up as you glide through the water under the stars.
Bike Rental and Cycling in Tokyo
At Yurakucho Station’s Muji Store, they have day long bicycle rentals for ¥1000. Yurakucho provides a glimpse of Japan’s early postwar era with the many outdoor yakitori and izakaya shops beneath the train tracks of JR Yurakucho Station. The station is also a central location for many sightseeing destinations. Cycle your way to the nearby Tokyo Station and marvel at the newly renovated exterior. Then pedal your way to the Imperial Palace and cycle along the moat that is lined with willows and cherry trees. At the end of your path, veer towards Hibiya Park, and perhaps you will encounter one of the many festivals that occur on the weekends.
Tokyo Skyscraper Bus Tour
Once you arrive in Tokyo, the Hato Bus Tour is the perfect way to soak in the city while recuperating from your jetlag. The bus tour has many destinations to choose from, ranging from half day to full day tours. The Tokyo Panorama Tour is excellent for a non stop, hour-long tour that hits all the major attractions in the city. Ride along the Rainbow Bridge and see the futuristic Fuji TV Building, see the throngs of shoppers crowding the streets of Ginza, and visit the world-renowned Tokyo Tower. The Tokyo Panorama Tour leaves from Tokyo Station Marunouchi South Exit with seven tours a day.
Morning Auctions at Tsukiji Fish Market
Tsukiji is one of the world’s largest wholesale markets for seafood. Early every morning, Tsukiji holds their famous Tuna Auction. Tickets are extremely limited, and at 5:00 am, visitors must apply to enter at the Kachidoki Gate. Only 120 visitors are admitted each morning between 5:15-6:15 am. If you are not able to make it to the auction, or you are not such an early bird, the wholesale markets are open to visitors at 9am. But be careful not to block traffic, as this is still a place of work.
City Escape at Mount Takao
A little less than an hour train ride outside of Shinjuku is Mount Takao, the closest natural recreation area from Tokyo. The mountain is considered sacred, and it houses Yakuoin Temple for visitors to pay their respects to the mountain gods. There are six different hiking trails varying in difficulties, and even a cable car for those who didn’t pack their hiking boots. In the summer, there is a beer garden near the peak that looks over the countryside for the perfect city getaway.
Museum Hopping at Ueno Park
In rain or shine, Ueno Park is a wonderful place to spend your day, especially in the spring when thousands of cherry blossoms are in bloom. The famous Ueno Zoo with their newly adopted pandas lies to the back of the park. If the day turns to rain, there are many museums on the grounds, including the Tokyo National Museum, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, the National Museum of Science and Nature, and the National Museum for Western Art.
Fashion Fanatics Head to Harajuku
Harajuku is a place of teen fashion, fun, and history. Takeshita Dori Street is lined with shops for teens and their eccentric and extreme fashion. Parallel to Takeshita Dori is Omotesando with designer brands and fashion boutiques. When the bustle of crowded shopping streets becomes too much, relax at the adjacent Yoyogi Park and visit the famous Meiji Shrine.
People Watching in Shibuya
Shibuya is the birthplace of Japanese fashion trends. The area is most famous for their world’s busiest intersection at the JR Station Hachiko Exit. The intersection was featured in the film Lost in Translation. To get a bird’s eye view of the cluster of people weaving in and out of the crowds, head to the second floor of Mark City where windows peer down at the crossing. At night, the streets are teeming with young people headed to bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Exciting Nightlife in Shinjuku
Shinjuku is Tokyo’s skyscraper district, home to some of Tokyo’s tallest buildings. On the east side of the station is Kabukicho, Tokyo’s largest redlight district with nightclubs, bars, pachinko parlors, and hostess clubs. Despite being known for it’s exciting nightlife, Shinjuku can also be serene and quiet. Shinjuku Gyoen is one of Tokyo’s largest and quietest parks, providing a tranquil escape from the city.