Tokyo, a city seamlessly fusing tradition with modernity, holds a special place in our hearts. Whether you’re drawn to culture, fashion, or cuisine, Tokyo offers something extraordinary. Here’s a list of must-experiences that will elevate your Tokyo journey, especially if it’s your first visit!
1. Experience Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple
Begin your Tokyo exploration in Asakusa, where the past and present collide in a delightful fusion. Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, is a cultural gem adorned with vibrant lanterns and bustling Nakamise Shopping Street, offering an array of traditional snacks and crafts. Soak in the ancient vibes with a modern twist as you immerse yourself in the heart of Asakusa. This is also a fun area for souvenirs and small knick knacks, but it is often really crowded so just be prepared to weave through people.
2. Visit the Iconic Shibuya Crossing and go Shopping
Head to Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing. It’s fun to watch a (seemingly) chaotic sea of people walking in all sorts of directions without bumping into each other. It’s a real-life spectacle that turns the simple act of crossing the road into a fun experience. Just be careful if you stop to take a photo or video – most of these people are actually trying to get some where! While you’re here, take some time to pop into some of Shibuya’s unique cafes and boutiques. It’s one of our favorite areas of Tokyo to go without a plan.
3. Find Serenity at Meiji Shrine
Escape the urban hustle by entering the serene oasis of Meiji Shrine in Shibuya. Surrounded by lush greenery, this Shinto shrine provides a peaceful retreat. Walk through the towering torii gate, cleanse your spirit at the temizuya (water basin), and feel the tranquility of Meiji Shrine. It’s a perfect blend of nature and spirituality in the heart of Tokyo.
4. Revel in Harajuku’s Fashion and Culture
Indulge your inner fashionista in the vibrant district of Harajuku. Takeshita Street is a treasure trove of unique fashion, quirky boutiques, and innovative street styles. Dive into the colorful world of Harajuku’s street culture, explore the vibrant street art, and embrace the creativity that defines this iconic neighborhood. This area has really cute cafes and snacks, so definitely stop for a latte or a crepe. This is also one of our favorite areas to shop in, but it can get really busy really fast. We like to visit on off hours during the week to dodge the weekend crowds.
5. Explore the Electric town of Akihabara
For tech enthusiasts and anime aficionados, Akihabara is a paradise waiting to be explored. This district is a haven of electronic wonders, manga shops, and themed cafes inspired by your favorite anime and manga series. Dive into the electric atmosphere of Akihabara, where technology and pop culture collide in a dazzling display.
6. Get a Bird’s-Eye View of Tokyo from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
While most people head to Tokyo Tower for sky-high views, we recommend the Tokyo Metropolitan building too! The building boasts two observation decks, each located on the 45th floor of its respective tower. And the best part? You can access these decks free of charge! Tokyo Tower can get busy, and the tickets are a bit on the pricey side, so this is a great option.
Situated in the bustling district of Shinjuku, the Tokyo Metropolitan building stands as an iconic landmark on Tokyo’s skyline. Comprising a pair of twin towers, this government complex not only houses administrative offices but also offers visitors an unparalleled view of the city.
7. Indulge in Omotesando’s Shopping Scene
Take a stroll down Omotesando, Tokyo’s answer to the Champs-Élysées, Michigan Avenue, and Rodeo Drive. This upscale district is home to high-end boutiques, designer stores, and trendy cafes. Treat yourself to a shopping spree along the tree-lined avenue, where cutting-edge fashion and architectural sophistication converge. Here, you can hidden gems in the labyrinthine backstreets for a truly unique shopping experience. It’s honestly fun to just walk around because of how beautiful the area is. We plan on staying closer to Omotesando on our next trip to Japan. Just be careful – we ended up having to buy an extra luggage after our day here. Next time we’ll only pack the essentials so we have space for all the shopping we’ll be doing!
8. Unearth Vintage Treasures in Shimokitazawa
For lovers of all things vintage, Shimokitazawa is a haven. You could spend all day here – probably multiple days – just thrifting. Explore its narrow alleys filled with small shops, second-hand stores, and quirky boutiques. They have the more traditional thrift shops, but also have some luxury pre-loved shops too. It’s a paradise for those seeking one-of-a-kind treasures with a touch of nostalgia. It’s definitely less busy in this area as well, which is nice when you’re staying in the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. We bought a lot on our last visit to Shimokitazawa – check out some of the outfits we wore on our last trip to Japan!
9. Savor Seafood Delights at Tsukiji Fish Market
No visit to Tokyo is complete without an adventure at Tsukiji Fish Market. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this bustling market, where vendors showcase an array of fresh seafood delights. We recommending heading over there pretty early (like 7am) to beat the main crowds and to stuff your face with fresh fish for breakfast. Indulge in sushi crafted from the day’s catch, savor unique Japanese street food, and witness the artistry of a lively tuna auction. The line tend to be very long, so we recommend finding 1-2 must spots and standing in line right away. There are so many options, and you really can’t go wrong anyway. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself waiting in line for most of the time you’re there, which is no fun.
10. Watch Cherry Blossoms at Ueno Park
If you’re lucky enough to travel to Japan in March/April, Ueno Park is the perfect place to watch cherry blossoms. Ueno Park is a vast green space that houses museums, temples, and a zoo. Pack a picnic, find a serene spot beneath the sakura trees, and revel in the beauty of Tokyo’s seasonal charm.
Tokyo, with its wide variety of experiences, offers once-in-a-lifetime memories no matter how often you visit. Because the city is so massive, it’s easy to spend a week (or more) here. From ancient shrines to futuristic districts, traditional markets to chic shopping avenues, the city awaits your exploration. Happy travels! 🇯🇵✨
