Things to do in Tokyo: districts, sights and day trips

Tokyo is less a single city than a collection of neighbourhoods, each with its own atmosphere. The list of things to do in Tokyo is endless, so organising visits by district saves time on trains and leaves room for wandering.

Asakusa and the east

Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, and the shopping street of Nakamise capture the spirit of old Edo. Nearby, the Tokyo Skytree offers views across the city, and Sumida River cruises link Asakusa with Hamarikyu Gardens.

Shibuya and Harajuku

The famous Shibuya Crossing is best seen from the observation decks above the station. Harajuku's Takeshita Street shows youth fashion, while the tree-lined Omotesando and the forest of Meiji Jingu offer a calmer contrast.

Shinjuku

Skyscrapers, the free observation floors of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, the tiny bars of Golden Gai and Shinjuku Gyoen, one of the best gardens for cherry blossoms.

Ueno and Yanaka

Ueno Park gathers the Tokyo National Museum and other major museums. The quiet streets of Yanaka, next door, preserve wooden houses and small temples.

Akihabara and Ginza

Akihabara is the centre of electronics, anime and gaming culture. Ginza offers department stores, galleries and refined dining.

Odaiba and the bay

Artificial islands with seaside promenades, shopping centres and digital art museums, reached by the automated Yurikamome line with views of Rainbow Bridge.

Food experiences

The Tsukiji Outer Market for breakfast seafood, depachika food halls in department stores, ramen alleys and izakaya under the railway arches of Yurakucho are among the best food-related things to do in Tokyo.

Easy day trips

Practical tips

Stay near a station on the JR Yamanote loop line, which connects Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo Station, Ueno and Akihabara. Use an IC card for all local transport, and avoid rush hours when carrying luggage. Popular attractions such as the Ghibli Museum and digital art museums sell out weeks in advance.

Planning things to do in Tokyo by season

Spring brings cherry blossoms to Ueno, Shinjuku Gyoen and Chidorigafuchi. Summer means fireworks along the Sumida River. Autumn colours peak in late November in Meiji Jingu Gaien and Rikugi-en, and winter offers illuminations and clear views of Mount Fuji.

Museums and culture

Beyond the Tokyo National Museum, the Edo-Tokyo Museum, the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi, the Nezu Museum and its garden, and the Sumo stadium in Ryogoku, with tournaments in January, May and September, offer insights into the city's history and arts.

Shopping districts

Ginza for luxury and department stores, Shibuya and Harajuku for fashion, Akihabara for electronics and games, Kappabashi for kitchenware, and Shimokitazawa or Koenji for vintage shops. Department stores open around 10 am and close at 8 pm. Most department stores also have rooftop gardens and food halls worth a visit.

Official source: Japan National Tourism Organization

Frequently asked questions