It is hard to find another city that can rival the extraordinary character of Tokyo, which is showcased through its advanced technology, unique culture, and delectable cuisine. Tourists can explore the city's themed robot cafes, the blooming Sakura trees, or the digital teamLab museum, all of which provide many fun and interesting activities for them to experience.
On my three trips to Tokyo, I have been refining my ideal itinerary. This guide provides some of the best activities to do in Tokyo, organized by day. It includes delicious, cultural, and unique activities that are sure to make your stay memorable.
This four-day itinerary for Tokyo offers some of the top attractions and activities the city has to offer. From ancient temples, modern malls, and the famous Tsukiji Fish Market, Tokyo has something for everyone. Day one is dedicated to the Imperial Palace and the East Gardens, followed by a stroll through the Ueno Park and its surrounding area. The second day is devoted to the world-famous Tsukiji Fish Market and the Ginza shopping district. Day three is filled with visits to the Sensoji Temple, the Tokyo Skytree, and the Edo-Tokyo Museum. On the last day, visitors can take a day trip to Mt. Fuji and the Hakone National Park.
A Visit to Harajuku and Enjoyment of Yummy Cuisine
On the first day of my trip, I explored the vibrant Harajuku area and had the pleasure of indulging in some of the delicious food it had to offer.
1. The Hie Shrine
This particular shrine is renowned for its spiritual history and importance. It is a popular place of pilgrimage for many people throughout Japan. It is known for its traditional architecture and the fact that it is a important religious site. Visitors from around the world come to pay homage to the shrine and to explore its history.
A photo of Hie Shrine in Tokyo, Japan is displayed, part of a 4-day itinerary.
Start the day off with a stroll around the Hie shrine, a spot that brings to mind the well-known torii gates at Arashiyama in Kyoto. The cheerful stairway is a great spot for a picture, and if you are there on a weekend, you will see locals gathering at the temple at the top to receive blessings.
2. Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park and the Meiji Shrine are two popular tourist destinations located in Tokyo. These two sites are renowned for their beauty, history, and the culture they represent. Yoyogi Park is a large public park, and the Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine that honors Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The park is a great place to take a leisurely stroll, while the shrine offers visitors a chance to learn about Japan's rich history and culture.
Once you've arrived at Harajuku station, you'll be in one of Tokyo's top tourist spots. Before taking a look around the fashionable, funky, and quirky streets, it's worth walking over to Yoyogi park. There, you'll find a beautiful, green area with seasonal changes – including the changing colours of fall and the cherry blossoms of spring.
On your way to the Meiji Jingu shrine, you will pass the barrels along the way. There is also a cafe with a variety of food and drinks, such as snacks, coffee, and ice cream. However, if you are looking for something more substantial, there are plenty of delicious eateries to choose from in Harajuku.
3. Shopping in Harajuku and Observing the People Around You
From Harajuku, there is the opportunity to shop and take in the sights of the people in the area. People watching is a great way to get a feel for the culture and the people living there.
Harajuku is the place to be if you have a penchant for vibrant colors, Alice in Wonderland-style decor, and unique desserts. I often wear the sweaters I bought there and find it an ideal spot to observe people and enjoy crepes and ice cream.
In the video below, all of my activities at the monster cafe can be viewed, however, it is unfortunate that the cafe has closed.
4. Photographing Omotesando
Visiting this Tokyo destination is a great opportunity to capture amazing pictures.
Once you've completed your journey through Harajuku, you'll arrive at Omotesando. Here you can find an escalator with mirrored sides, providing an ideal opportunity for a picture of the street beyond. If you want a photo of yourself, ask someone to snap a shot of you while coming down the steps. I have never encountered a sight like it anyplace else!
5. The Robot Restaurant
The Robot Restaurant is a unique dining experience where patrons can enjoy a robotic show while consuming their meals. This restaurant is located in Tokyo and offers a variety of robotic performances that are sure to be a memorable experience. The Robot Restaurant is a great place to visit for a meal and a show.
The Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku's Kabuchiko district is a spectacle of neon and glitzy walls from the second you step through the doors. For the next 90 minutes, you'll be treated to a show like no other, where robotic machines battle, dragons spew real fire, and ninjas swing their blades while the crowd reacts with their glowsticks.
It's a good idea to get tickets ahead of time due to the high demand of the show. There are three performances on a daily basis, with the first one tending to be available on weekdays. It is also possible to get tickets at the venue if there are any left.
It is important to take note that the cafe is shut down for the time being in response to COVID.
Alex of Swedish Nomad suggests, that you should check out their website.
Day Two: Experiencing Ramen, Visiting Shibuya Crossing, and Exploring Nakano
6. Shinjuku Gyoen Park
Situated in the heart of Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen Park is a stunning oasis of Japanese gardens, tranquil ponds, and lush greenery. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy a leisurely stroll, take in the breathtaking scenery, and admire the park's many cherry trees.
To start your day, you can take a trip to Shinjuku Gyoen park. Although the park is beautiful year-round, it is especially breathtaking during spring. The park is huge and is like an urban oasis in the heart of Tokyo during sakura season. You can observe hundreds of trees with more than 12 different types of blossoms all in bloom with soft pink and white petals. Additionally, when visiting at this time of year, you can witness hanami, a tradition in Japan where families, acquaintances, and co-workers come together to celebrate the arrival of spring under the cherry blossom trees with food and music.
Kylie of Our Overseas Adventures highly recommends spending three days in Tokyo with your kids.
7. The Bustling Intersection of Shibuya
The internationally renowned Shibuya crossing is renowned for its hustle and bustle; with thousands of people passing through it per minute! To witness the spectacle from a bird's eye view, the Starbucks is a go-to spot.
To replicate a shot similar to this one, ask a buddy to set up a tripod and take a long-exposure picture of you standing still while the crowd passes. It is preferable to do this away from the crosswalk so as to not hinder people's progress. You don't need to be concerned about cars since it's a 4-way stop.
8. Exploring Ramen Dishes
Take a tour of ramen dishes and explore the unique flavors and ingredients that make them so delicious!
Beginning in Shibuya, I am going to embark on a six-bowl ramen tasting tour that will take me to three different ramen restaurants that each specialize in a unique style of ramen.
Traditionally thought of as a working class meal, this modernized version of the classic dish gives you the opportunity to sample the traditional miso ramen as well as creatives flavors like pesto and squid ink, all the way up to curry ramen. My partner and I decided to split each bowl, giving us the ability to taste all TWELVE flavors and varieties of ramen.
9. Ice Cream and Photography Opportunity at Nakano Broadway
A visit to Nakano Broadway isn't complete without a taste of the ice cream and a chance to capture the moment with a photo op.
Surprisingly, we got ice cream after our ramen excursion! Even if you feel full, the towering, assorted ice cream at Daily Chico in Nakano broadway is a must-have. Although the selection of flavors may switch up, you can usually find banana, coffee, chocolate, vanilla, matcha, and strawberry.
We decided to go all out and do a full stack, and just take a look at the result!
Strolling along Broadway from the subway station, I decided to take a look down the side streets to the right and was pleasantly surprised by the photo opportunities they presented. To my amazement, these alleys were rather uncrowded and the pictures I took came out great.
— What Comes After —
Discovering Japan over two weeks is an adventure that can be tailored to a variety of interests. This article offers an ideal itinerary to explore the country, from the thriving cities to the serene countryside. It is a great way to experience the best of Japan in such a short period of time.
On the Third Day: Experiencing teamLab and Kaiseki Cuisine
10. Senso-ji – A Sacred Temple
The Senso-ji Temple is a sacred place of worship located in the Asakusa district of Tokyo. It is the oldest temple in the city and is a popular tourist attraction. It is dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon and is a major site for the practice of Buddhism in Japan.
This one may not be as close as the others on this list, but it's still a sight to behold in Tokyo and is worth the effort to get there.
In the Asakusa district of Tokyo stands the ancient Senso-ji Buddhist temple. It is one of the most venerated religious sites in Japan and its brilliant reds and golds and towering pagodas make it a beautiful sight. Locals come to offer their prayers and toss coins, giving visitors a unique cultural experience.
11. Tsukiji Marketplace
The Tsukiji Market is famed for its bustling atmosphere and abundance of seafood. It is renowned throughout Japan as one of the most significant sources of fresh, top-notch fish and seafood. Visitors can explore the inner market, where wholesale stores and vendors sell their products, as well as the outer market, where smaller stores and restaurants offer a variety of local delicacies. Tourists can find everything from traditional sushi restaurants to small eateries serving up unique dishes.
If you're looking to satisfy your hunger before visiting teamLab, why not visit the Tsukiji Outer Market? There's plenty of stalls and small cafes with a seemingly endless selection of local delicacies. Even though the tuna auction has moved to Toyoso, the old market area still has a vibrant atmosphere. If you're feeling adventurous, you must try the freshest sushi, sea urchins served in their shells, and the delicious wasabi tempura crab sticks.
Katy from Untold Morsels recommends this: the best activities to do in Japan with kids.
12. Sunamachi's Streets
Sunamachi is a city located in Japan. It is known for its winding streets, filled with shops, restaurants, and lively atmosphere. The district is most popular for its unique shopping and dining experiences, as well as its many festivals and events. Visitors to the area can enjoy a variety of traditional Japanese dishes, as well as some modern twists on classic favorites. Sunamachi is a great place to explore and soak in the culture of Japan.
If you're not a fan of seafood, there's another spot near teamLab you can explore for other types of street food. Sunamachi is located in Koto Ward, and is one of the few places in Tokyo where you can eat on the street. It's also known as 'side-dish' street, since it's full of shops and stalls selling food that's normally eaten as a side dish with rice, like tempura, pickled vegetables, yakitori, and oden (pictured above). This Japanese dish consists of skewers of tofu and vegetables simmered in a light soy and dashi broth.
With a recommendation from Margherita of The Crowded Planet, exploring Tokyo street food in Sunamachi is a must.
13. teamLab Planets Experience
A visit to teamLab Planets provides a unique opportunity to explore an immersive digital world. This interactive art museum is a must-see for those looking to explore a space that combines art, technology, and nature in a captivating way. Visitors are invited to explore the various installations and take part in interactive activities, all while discovering the beauty and power of digital art.
It's essential to check out a TeamLab show! This collective's amazing art displays never cease to amaze me. Think of twinkling lights set to music, real orchids suspended in the air, and passing through liquid with digital koi fish reflected on the surface. They usually stay open for just a few years, and TeamLab Planets is expected to remain open for another year or so.
I have been to two teamLab exhibits, including the closed Borderless, and I think it's worth spending 2-3 hours in each. I suggest going in the hours before closing to reduce the number of people in your photographs. Additionally, it's wise to book a ticket in advance; we were able to skip the whole line with this one. The cost for entrance is ¥3200.
14. The Tsurutokame Kaseiki Eatery
A trip to Japan wouldn't be complete without experiencing kaiseki, and Tsurutokame is the most memorable of all the ones I've had the pleasure of trying.
If you're looking for something special, Tsurutokame is the place to be. Located in the streets of Ginza, it is the city's only all-female Kaiseki restaurant, run by 7 remarkable chefs aged between 18 and 35. The menu changes daily in true Kaiseki style and it is more than just a restaurant: it is a movement that aims to challenge the male-dominated restaurant scene in Japan. It has gained so much popularity that it's best to book seats in advance. The price is very reasonable, ranging from 10,000¥ to 16,000¥, for an experience that is almost unheard of for Kaiseki.
— What's Coming Up —
Exploring Japan alone as a female traveler can be an amazing experience. Bemytravelmuse.com offers advice on how to make the most of such an opportunity. It provides helpful tips on where to go and what to do, and also covers the challenges that come along with it. The website is a great resource for those considering a solo trip to Japan.
Day Four: An Excursion to Tokyo Disney, Visiting Museums, or Racing with MarioKart
Tokyo Disney and Disney Sea, two renowned amusement parks in the world, have become a popular destination for people of all ages.
This has been a dream of mine for a long time, and if our child had been older when we were last in Japan, we would have definitely spent a day or two at Tokyo Disney and Disney Sea. Even though Disney attractions are the same no matter where you go, the Japanese influence in the cuisine, souvenirs, and the energy of the people would make this a special experience! You can reserve park tickets with transport here.
16. Tokyo GoKarting Adventure
Take a thrilling drive around the streets of Tokyo in a GoKart!
If you don't feel like going to a Disney theme park, or don't have the time to devote to it, why not live out your video game fantasies instead?
On multiple occasions, I've observed the go karts speeding around Tokyo with drivers wearing costumes, and each time, I've thought about how amazing it would be to join them. It would be living out my N64 Mario Kart dreams. What's kept me from doing so is not having an international drivers license, which you need to get from your native country before your trip. Ensure you have one before booking.
17. Adorn Yourself in a Kimono
Asakusa is the perfect area to experience traditional attire, as there are many shops offering both kimono rentals and sales in the older area of Tokyo which also houses the historic Senso-ji. Taking a stroll while wearing the garments from the 19th or 20th century is a great experience, not to mention the fantastic photos you can take! However, if you are visiting during the warmer months, you might want to consider asking for a yukata instead, which is a summer version of kimono with fewer layers but a similar look.
Nam from the website Laugh Travel Eat highly recommends these 8 activities to do in Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan.
18. The Ghibli Museum is a renowned institution which offers unique experiences for its visitors. It is a place which allows individuals to immerse themselves in the world of Ghibli, with exhibitions which showcase the films and artwork of the studio.
For those who adore animation, in particular the traditional Japanese films like My Neighbour Totoro, Kiki's Delivery Service, and The Grave of the Fireflies, a visit to the Ghibli Museum is a must. Every detail is perfect, entertaining as well as providing a great deal of information. You can learn about the techniques used before computer animation, explore how the movies were created, and even step into one scene from a movie!
You need to purchase tickets ahead of time at a Lawson. It's important to be on time for the time slot on your ticket, or you won't be allowed in! Generally, people spend an average of three hours in the museum. If you plan on having a meal while you're there, it will take longer, so make sure to plan accordingly.
Thais of World Trip Diaries suggests that a visit to the Ghibli Museum in Japan is a must for kids.
19. Feline-Focused Cafe
A cat cafe is an establishment that serves drinks and snacks and also provides a place to interact with cats. This type of cafe is becoming increasingly popular, as it allows customers to enjoy a relaxing atmosphere while spending time with cats. These cafes are becoming increasingly popular all over the world, providing people with a unique experience.
Temari No Oshiro, or the Kichijoji Petit Mura, is a cat cafe located in Tokyo near the Ghibli Museum. All the cats here are monitored by nutritionists and the staff diligently records each of their meals on data sheets. I've personally seen them writing down how many times the cats have eaten and how much, while ensuring that each cat gets its own bowl!
At Kichijoji Petit Mura, all areas are kept sparkling clean and there is one rule to adhere to: the cats can do whatever they please! However, visitors are not permitted to feed the cats (unless they buy snacks from the cafe) or disturb them when they are sleeping.
Having spent some time in Tokyo, it's not difficult to understand why it's rare to see pets. Nonetheless, the Kichijoji Petit Mura is a great spot to cuddle with cats and unwind. It may be hard to believe, but many locals come to the cats with presents each week, treating them as if they were their own!
It is recommended by the blog, Traveling Dany, to plan a 5-day itinerary for Tokyo.
Accommodation Options
Looking for a place to stay? There are plenty of options available to choose from. Whether you're seeking a hotel, an Airbnb, or a hostel, you can find the perfect fit for your needs.
When I go on trips, I rarely spend much time in the accommodation, but Tokyo was an exception. The Prince Gallery hotel had a magnificent view, plus a wonderful club lounge. Instead of visiting the Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower, I was content to stay in and take in the view from our room.
The breakfast provided was top-notch, offering both Japanese and Western options, and the centrality of the hotel was really handy. I would stay there again without hesitation.
This guide provides the perfect representation of the vibrant and appetizing Tokyo, although there are a virtually infinite number of activities available.
I'm certain that after you experience Tokyo, you'll keep wanting to return – I know I do!
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Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.