Travel to Tokyo, the incredible capital of Japan, is the first destination for almost all travelers who come to the country. And the truth is, deciding what to see and do in this city can be quite a challenge, because it is ENORMOUS! But don't worry, we'll help you get organized here.
To give you an idea, almost 14 million people live in the prefecture alone. And if you count the entire Greater Tokyo area, the population rises to a whopping 38 million! Yes, Tokyo is huge, but that's an advantage: there's always something new to discover and you'll never run out of things to do. The best part? You'll have the perfect excuse to come back again and again.
In this post we give you a lot of ideas of What to see and do in Tokyo, organized by areas to make it easier to get around. Get ready to make the most of this city that has it all! 🎌✨
ARE YOU PLANNING A TRIP TO JAPAN?
HERE YOU HAVE CONTENT THAT PROBABLY INTERESTS YOU
- How to Organize a Trip to Japan
- ESIM data card to have internet on your trip
- Travel Insurance
- Find cheap flights
- Get the Klook Pass Tokyo
- Get your JR Pass here
- Greetings in Japanese
- Buy your ticket for Universal Studios Japan
- How to get to Osaka from Kansai Airport
- How does transportation work in Tokyo?
- How to get from Narita Airport to central Tokyo
- Travel to Osaka
- Travel to Kyoto
- Travel to Fukuoka
Combining past and future, Tokyo dazzles with its traditional culture and passion for everything new. Tokyo is divided into 23 prefectures and each one will make you discover totally different wonders. Traveling to Tokyo will give you endless possibilities since there are no two experiences alike in the city.
Some neighborhoods look like a vision of the future, with ever-taller structures, and others transport you back in time, with low-rise wooden buildings and bright streetlights.
Why visit Tokyo?
If you're wondering why everyone is so crazy about Tokyo, let me tell you. This city is like a giant theme park, full of surprises and wonders that will make you want to stay forever.
Imagine this: wandering through the crazy districts of Shibuya and Shinjuku, where the neon lights never go out. Or stopping by Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa for a touch of tradition. Are you a fan of modernity? Harajuku will blow your mind with its quirky shops and unique cafes. And if you need a break from the chaos, the Imperial Palace Gardens will provide a perfect respite.
And why not take a trip to Tokyo? Direct flights and proximity to other destinations in Asia make it easier than you might imagine. And if you're travelling with kids, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea will be the bomb!
So now you know, Tokyo is waiting for you with lots of cool things to do. Ready for adventure?
Traveling to Tokyo: Organizing the trip
What documentation do I need to travel to Tokyo?
Once you have decided to travel to Tokyo, the first thing is to know what the main requirements are and what you should do when traveling to Japan, In this post, You will find everything you need when it comes to organize a trip to Japan.
Besides, New requirements have been imposed for travelling to Japan, both immigration and health-related, which you must meet in order to live the Japanese experience. These requirements are added to the usual visa requirements for travelling to Japan and we will tell you everything in this post.
When is the best time to travel to Tokyo?
Spring in Tokyo
During spring, which runs from March to May, Tokyo is transformed into a spectacle of colours. Cherry blossoms are the main attraction, and the phenomenon of 'hanami', which involves picnicking under the blossoming trees, is a popular tradition.
Temperatures are mild, ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, making it a very pleasant time to stroll around. Many of the city's parks, such as Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen, come alive and offer impressive visual spectacles.
Summer in Tokyo
Summer, which runs from June to August, is the hottest and most humid season. Temperatures can exceed 30 degrees Celsius. Despite the heat, summer is a vibrant time, with festivals and sound events. Visiting Tokyo in summer has its peculiarities. Some people prefer to avoid the heat, but for those who enjoy party atmospheres, there is much to offer this season.
Autumn in Tokyo
Fall, which runs from September to November, is also a highly recommended season for its pleasant temperatures and beautiful tree foliage. Ochre and red hues cover the parks, creating an ideal environment for outdoor exploration.
Winter in Tokyo
December to February is the winter season in Tokyo. Although temperatures can drop close to freezing, the city lights up with festive decorations. Christmas lights and temple celebrations add a magical touch to this time of year.
Traveling to Tokyo: How to get to Tokyo from the airport
Arriving in Tokyo from Haneda Airport
The most famous Japanese airports around the world are Narita International Airport and Tokyo International Airport (Haneda), and are the airports that serve Tokyo.
Located in Tokyo's Ota district, Haneda Airport, or Tokyo International Airport, is known for its proximity to the city center. How to get from Haneda Airport to central Tokyo? It takes less than an hour to get there from Asakusa, Shibuya, Tokyo and most other points in the city. The Keikyu Line connects to Terminals 1 and 2 of the airport.
To go from the station Shinagawa to Haneda Airport, take the Keikyu Main Line for 20 minutes (300 yen each way). Make sure you are exiting from Keikyu Shinagawa Station, not the JR station. If you are going to or coming from Asakusa, take the Toei Subway Asakusa Line to Haneda in 34 minutes (*Airport Express train bound for Haneda) for 560 yen (one way).
He Tokyo Monorail, which connects the airport to Hamamatsucho Station (a transport hub with connections to the JR and subway lines), is an option that offers panoramic views of Tokyo Bay.
Arriving in Tokyo from Narita Airport
Narita Airport has three terminals. It is a large airport with many restaurants serving Japanese and international cuisine, souvenir shops, cafes and even Japanese cultural activities. Read our post where we tell you about them. HOW TO GET FROM NARITA AIRPORT TO CENTRAL TOKYO.
Another option is private transfers, which are a bit more expensive than the other options, however, it is a super comfortable option since they take you from the airport to the hotel and can be a super good option if you are a group of 3 or 4.
You can book it in advance online at this link.
How to get to Tokyo from Kyoto
If you are in Kyoto and heading to Tokyo, you have several options, but here I tell you how I do it, in my style, making the most of the travel experience in Japan.
Shinkansen: My favorite way (fast and comfortable)
For me, there is nothing like the ShinkansenIt's fast, convenient, and I honestly love the experience. I always choose the Nozomi, which takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes in taking me from Kyoto to Tokyo. It is the fastest bullet train, and while the Japan Rail Pass does not cover it (it only covers the Hikari, which takes about 20 minutes longer), is worth every yen.
Personal tip: Before boarding, I love stopping by the bento shop at Kyoto Station and picking up one of those packed lunches (there are so many delicious options!). Eating it as the train speeds along with views of the Mount Fuji It's a must-do experience. Oh, and choose a seat on the right side for the best view of Fuji.
Night Bus: Ideal for saving money
When I want to save on accommodation or just want to stretch the travel budget, I opt for the night bus. It takes about 8 hours, but it is surprisingly comfortable and modern. Companies like Willer Express either JR Bus They offer reclining seats and even premium options with more space and privacy.
The good: You sleep on the way and arrive in Tokyo early in the morning, ready to start the day.
The not so good: You don't always sleep as well as you do in a bed, but with some good headphones and an eye mask, you can fix it!
How to get around Tokyo
Getting around Tokyo is easy thanks to its efficient and well-organized transportation system. Knowing the options available is key to maximizing your experience in the city. In this article we tell you all about HOW TRANSPORT WORKS IN TOKYO.
If you plan to travel around Japan, you are probably interested in the JR Pass. We leave you our JAPAN RAIL PASS GUIDE | WHAT IT IS AND HOW TO KNOW IF IT IS WORTH BUYING IT so you can assess whether it is the right choice for you best option for you, if so, here are a couple of options from trusted partners where you can get it!
- Buy your Japan Rail Pass on Klook: We got it here on our last trip to Japan and it was a great price, so keep an eye out as they may have a sale on!
- Buy the JR Pass with JR Pass.com: Another site with good prices. We used it on our first trip to Japan and it was great.
Travel Insurance
We always make sure to travel with our Iati travel insurance, And for Japan, we use Iati Estrella. Why? Because healthcare there can be quite expensive and we prefer not to take any chances. If you have questions about which insurance to choose, don't hesitate to leave a comment on the post. We'll be happy to help!
And a little tip: if you're going on a long trip, like the one to Japan, it's also a good idea to add cancellation insurance. Just take out the medical + cancellation insurance within the first 7 days after purchasing the tickets. That way you're covered in case something goes wrong!
Oh, and if you want to save a little, here's a link to purchase any Iati insurance with a 5% discount. Travel with peace of mind and at a good price!
What to See and Do in Tokyo: Complete Guide by Areas
A very important task on any trip, and especially when traveling to Tokyo, is to plan by day. To organize our routes we usually read many travel journals and blogs and we look for all the official tourism websites. In our blog you will find all the information you need and you also have our services of Travel Consulting to help you create your ideal itinerary!
Shinjuku: Where Tokyo Never Sleeps
If there's one place that captures the frenetic, vibrant pace of Tokyo, it's Shinjuku. This district is the epicentre of the action, with its towering skyscrapers, bustling streets and endless entertainment on offer. Here, no matter if it's day or night, you'll always find something to do.
- Free viewing point (with amazing views): Hop aboard the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for an epic panoramic view of the city. It's free and, with luck, you might even see Mount Fuji!
- Kabukicho, the neon district: This is the craziest side of Shinjuku, with themed restaurants, secret bars and lots of neon signs. Chaos that you will love.
- Golden Gai: Imagine alleys full of super unique mini bars. This is the place to go for a drink in a mega cool atmosphere.
- Shinjuku Gyoen: If you need a break after so much intensity, this park is an oasis where you can relax or have a picnic.
Harajuku: One of the coolest areas in Tokyo
Harajuku is famous for its quirky and youthful fashion. The area is a hotbed of creativity and style. Along Takeshita Dori Street, visitors can stroll among boutiques, vintage shops and unique cafes. This neighborhood is ideal for observing Japanese fashion trends and enjoying its lively atmosphere. The mix of luxury stores and small designer shops makes Harajuku a special place for those looking for a unique style.
Takeshita Dori Street
Takeshita Dori Street is the heart of Harajuku and a meeting point for Tokyo's youth. Colourful shop fronts and vibrant music create a festive atmosphere. Here you can find diverse clothing styles, unique and original accessories, as well as delicious street food options, including popular sweets such as crepes.
Shibuya: Tokyo of Neons and Fashion
Shibuya is the Tokyo you imagine when you think of skyscrapers full of screens and zebra crossings full of people.
- The famous Shibuya crossing: Yes, that zebra crossing that appears in all the movies. The best thing is to see it from above in a café or to jump across it like a local.
- Hachiko, the most famous dog: This dog is a symbol of loyalty and, in addition, its statue is a classic meeting point.
- Shibuya Sky: Climb up to the 360-degree viewing platform for photos that will be the envy of your social media accounts.
- Shopping in Shibuya: From giant malls like Shibuya 109 to locally-branded stores with a lot of flair, you'll want to spend money here.
Asakusa: Traditional Tokyo
If you want to experience the older, quieter side of Tokyo, Asakusa is where you have to go. Here everything is more relaxed, but no less impressive.
- Sensoji Temple: It is the oldest temple in Tokyo, and you will reach it by crossing Nakamise Street, a street full of shops and street food. Don't forget to take a photo at the Kaminarimon Gate with its huge red lantern.
- Sumida River: A stroll along the river is always a good idea, and if you can get on a boat, even better! The views of the Tokyo Skytree from here are spectacular.
- Street food: From taiyakis (fish-shaped cakes) to yakitori (chicken skewers), eating on the street is part of the experience.
Akihabara: For Geeks and Tech Lovers
Akihabara is the epicenter of otaku culture in Tokyo. This district is packed with shops dedicated to anime, video games, and manga. It is also known for its intense nightlife and maid cafes. Akihabara is a vibrant and unique place that attracts the most geeky lovers of Japanese culture. Among its numerous shops, you can find that Goku figure you needed for your collection, or even technological gadgets.
- Electronics stores: Here you'll find everything from super modern gadgets to vintage stuff you didn't know you needed.
- Maid Cafés: Ok, this may be a bit weird, but it's also very Japanese. You're served by girls dressed as maids in a super peculiar atmosphere.
- For otakus: Animate, Mandarake and a bunch of other specialty stores have everything you can imagine: figures, mangas, posters, everything!
Ginza: The Fancy District
Ginza is Tokyo's most exclusive district, famous for its luxury boutiques and big international brands. The streets are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and high-end shopping malls. It's an ideal place for those looking for luxury fashion and accessories.
- Brand stores: Major fashion houses have their boutiques in this area, including Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Gucci.
- Ginza Six Shopping Mall: This complex offers a variety of luxury shops, as well as restaurants and art galleries.
- Exclusive experiences: Many places in Ginza also offer personalized services and unique shopping experiences.
Tsukiji Market
Although the wholesale market has moved to Toyosu, the Tsukiji area remains an iconic spot for food lovers. Here you can find numerous restaurants and stalls offering fresh sushi and other delicious dishes.
- Sushi: You can enjoy quality sushi directly from the market, which is known for its freshness.
- Seafood: Various fresh varieties that can be enjoyed instantly.
- Local dishes: From takoyaki to onigiri, a wide variety of options.
Tokyo Museums
Tokyo has a rich cultural offering, with museums that stand out for their impressive exhibitions and architecture. Two of the most representative are the Tokyo National Museum and the Edo-Tokyo Museum, which offer an immersion in Japanese history and tradition.
National Museum of Nature and Science, Tokyo
This museum is also located in Ueno Park and is one of the largest science museums in Japan. It is the only national museum in the country that has a comprehensive exhibition on natural history and the history of science and technology.
Unko Museum
The poop museum! Located in Odaiba, this place transforms an unexpected topic into a fun and colorful experience. With interactive exhibits and a super cheerful atmosphere, it guarantees laughter and good times for all ages. Ideal for quirky photos and unforgettable memories.
Ghibli Museum
This is a must-see destination for Studio Ghibli fans. The museum immerses you in the magical world of Hayao Miyazaki's films, with exclusive exhibits, original short films, and charming details around every corner. It's like stepping into an animated dream!
TeamLab Borderless
This digital art museum is a unique sensory experience. Artworks are projected onto walls and floors, creating an immersive environment where the boundaries between art and viewer disappear. It is a place where you can lose yourself in a world of ever-changing light and colour.
Small Worlds Tokyo
This miniature museum captures elements both historical and fantastical, providing a fascinating look into different eras and imaginative worlds. The detailed miniature models and scenes will transport you to diverse settings, from futuristic cities to classical landscapes.
Samurai Ninja Museum Tokyo With Samurai and Ninja Experience
Immerse yourself in the rich history of samurai and ninja at this interactive museum. Located in Asakusa, it offers visitors the chance to try on authentic armor, learn sword fighting techniques, and practice ninja skills such as shuriken throwing and blowgun use. An educational and exciting experience for all ages.
Excursions from Tokyo
From the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, there are a number of excursions that allow you to explore Japan's cultural and natural richness. These short breaks provide the opportunity to discover nearby wonders and enrich the traveller's experience.
Visit Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji, an iconic symbol of Japan, is located approximately two hours by train from Tokyo. Rising to 3,776 metres above sea level, this majestic mountain offers stunning scenery and is an ideal candidate for a day trip.
Hiking trails welcome adventurers and nature lovers, especially during the climbing season, which runs from July to September. For those who prefer to appreciate the mountain from a safe distance, the Fuji Five Lakes area provides spectacular views. In addition, the local culture, with its temples and shrines, adds a spiritual touch to the visit.
Spending the day in Yokohama
Just 30 minutes by train from Tokyo, Yokohama is Japan's second largest city and an attractive destination to enrich your stay. Its famous port area, Minato Mirai, is a vibrant place home to modern shops, museums and the iconic Landmark Tower.
Yokohama highlights include:
- Chinatown: One of the largest Chinatowns in the world, where you can enjoy traditional dishes and explore colorful shops.
- Sankeien Park: A beautiful traditional Japanese garden housing ancient tea houses and temples.
- The Ramen Museum: An interactive place celebrating the famous Japanese dish, where you can learn about its history and taste different varieties.
Nikko excursion
Nikko, a gem located north of Tokyo, is famous for its historic architecture and stunning natural beauty. This destination is easily reachable in about two hours by train and is perfect for a day trip.
Within Nikko, visitors will find the Toshogu Shrine, a World Heritage Site that pays homage to the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, and is notable for its intricate design and decoration. The region is also known for its mountain scenery and waterfalls, with Nikko National Park being a great place to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and photography.
The combination of cultural heritage and stunning nature makes Nikko a must-see destination for those seeking an authentic and enriching experience in Japan.
Traveling to Tokyo: Planning by day
To make the most of a visit to Tokyo, there are various itineraries available to suit different time frames. I'll leave you with the ideal plans to explore the city in three, five and seven days.
Where to stay in Tokyo
Tokyo, one of the most visited cities in Asia, has plenty of hotels, hostels and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) to suit all budgets. Tokyo is a huge city, so deciding where to stay in Tokyo can be quite a challenge.
It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons such as spring and autumn. Online platforms offer price comparisons and allow you to check availability. It is essential to read reviews from other travellers to ensure you choose the option that best suits your personal needs. Special offers can also be found that include breakfast, transport or entrance fees to attractions, so it is worth doing your research in advance.
The good news is that the quality of Tokyo hotels is generally very good, with comfortable, clean rooms equipped with everything you need. However, hotel prices are comparable to those in many large European cities and, since space is at a premium in Tokyo,, the rooms are usually small.
Best areas to stay in Tokyo
The best place to stay in Tokyo for first-time visitors. Lots of things to do, with great shopping, restaurants, cafes and bars.
Top attractions: Ghibli Museum, Samurai Museum (here for a samurai experience), Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and Shinjuku Gyoen Japanese Garden.
A modern and cutting-edge area with fantastic shops and restaurants, well connected to the rest of the city by several metro lines.
Main attractions: Shibuya Sky (open-air observation deck), Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue.
Central, modern and exclusive area with excellent luxury shopping and wide boulevards. Tokyo Station is Tokyo's main transport hub, excellent for day trips from Tokyo (to, for example, Mt Fuji – Hakone and Fuji Five Lakes, and onwards to Kyoto and Osaka).
Main attractions: Imperial Palace and Tsukiji Fish Market.
A quieter, more relaxed area of Tokyo, with a huge park, many museums and excellent budget hotels.
Major attractions: Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Park, Ueno Zoo, National Science Museum and Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Great atmosphere and local Japanese culture. Old part of Tokyo, with low buildings, temples, shrines and rickshaws on the streets. It feels a bit like Kyoto. Great budget hotels.
Main attractions: Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo Sky Tree.
The most part Tokyo geek, a paradise for enthusiasts of manga and anime. Budget accommodation.
Average budget for traveling to Tokyo
The budget for a trip to Tokyo depends primarily on the traveler's lifestyle. Generally speaking, the following ranges of spending per day are considered:
- From 50 to 100 euros per day: For those who prefer budget accommodation and simple meals, this range also includes metro transport and some entrance fees to attractions.
- From 100 to 200 euros per day: For those who desire greater comfort with stays in mid-range hotels and meals in mid-range restaurants.
- More than 200 euros per day: Ideal for those looking to enjoy luxuries, such as staying in luxury hotels and dining in fine dining restaurants. This budget also allows for participation in guided tours and special activities.
Additional expenses
When calculating the total cost of the trip, it is crucial to take into account certain expenses that may not be included in the initial budget.
- Souvenirs and shopping: It is common to set aside a portion of your budget for souvenirs, such as handicrafts or traditional products. Shopping areas such as Ginza or Shibuya offer options for all budgets.
- Cultural activities: Participating in festivals, theatre performances or cooking classes may represent an additional expense, but it enriches the experience of your stay.
- Transportation to other cities: If you are planning to make excursions to nearby places such as Kyoto or Yokohama, it is important to consider the cost of high-speed train travel.
- Tipping: Although it is not traditional in Japan, some services may include a small amount. It is useful to be informed about this and take this detail into account in the budget.
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