TOKYO
Sensoji Temple in Asakusa
TOKYO
Japan’s bustling capital is home to over 9 million people and is a veritable hub of culture, dining, shopping and entertainment. As such, there are an endless array of things to do in Tokyo. History and culture buffs will love wandering the many temples, shrines, museums and traditional districts. Foodies will have access to some of the best restaurants in the world. Outdoorsy types may be surprised to learn that Tokyo is in fact a great walking and biking city; many suburbs are connected by landscaped greenways and spectacular parks and gardens abound. And you can take it all in from one of the great city views around town—you might even glimpse Mount Fuji.
Whether it’s the neon lights of Shinjuku, the traditional backstreets of Asakusa or the ultra-hip Shimokitazawa, Tokyo has a vibe for everyone. Simply wander off the beaten track to discover what else this amazing city has to offer. In the meantime, here are a few of our favourite things to do in Tokyo.
POPULAR POSTS
A Cultural Heritage Park in Tokyo – Rikugien Garden of Waka poetry
Beautiful Parks in Tokyo
Many...
A Magical Guide to Tokyo DisneySea
For Disney fans, the happiest place in Japan isn’t Tokyo Disneyland, but next...
Iwasa Sushi, Toyosu Market
Though Tsukiji Market has closed and is settling into its new location at...
Gallivanting around Ginza – A Tour Through Old Tokyo Part 1
Many people come to Tokyo for the bright lights of Shibuya and Shinjuku....
Meeting the King Kaiju: A Closer Look at Shinjuku’s Godzilla Head
It's difficult to miss the screeching, smoke-spewing, 40-foot Godzilla head in Shinjuku. In...
Tokyo Farmer’s Market at UNU
The Tokyo Farmer’s Market at UNU runs every...
Where to get an afternoon drink in Omotesando
So, I totally get it. You’re on vacation and you’ve been sightseeing or...
Motsuyaki Ban, Tokyo’s original Lemon Sour Bar
We head to the birthplace of the Lemon Sour, ‘Motsuyaki Ban’
The Lemon Sour, a staple...
Meiji Shrine: Serenity Amid The Urban Sprawl
Meiji Jingu, one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines, can be found deep...
Gachapon Capsule Toys: Cheap Souvenirs and a Bit of Fun
If you’re looking for a cheap souvenir that comes with a bit of...
Yes, Book and Beer Cafes Exist: Here are Two of Tokyo’s Best
After a long, hard week, who doesn’t love to kick back and relax?...
The Artizon Museum: Experiencing Creativity in Tokyo
If you find yourself near Tokyo Station with time to spare, consider checking...
Marquis Maeda’s Tokyo Legacy: A Tale of Two Homes
In Tokyo's peaceful Komaba district, the Japanese and European former homes of Marquis Maeda quietly await visitors.
Harajuku LUSH: Eye Candy and Exclusive Products
For a nation that adores bathing and kawaii things so much, it’s no...
Natural History Comes To Life at Tokyo’s National Museum of Nature and Science
Natural history and science come to life at the National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo's Ueno Park!
Japan Folk Crafts Museum in Tokyo: The Home of Japan’s Handmade Heritage
The Japan Folk Crafts Museum, hidden away in Tokyo's leafy Komaba district, is a must-visit for craft enthusiasts.
Tsukiji Market Trek – A Tour Through Old Tokyo Part 2
After leaving Ginza on your way south, the luxury of early 20th century...
Serenity A Stone’s Throw Away At Tokyo’s Kiyosumi Gardens
There's no shortage of beautiful parks and green spaces in Tokyo. So, to...
Digging Through Don Don Down on Wednesday
Shopping for second-hand clothing in Tokyo isn’t quite the cost-saving measure it is...
Toyosu Market Sushi Restaurant: Iso Sushi
Iso Sushi (or Isozushi) restaurant was a Tsukiji...
A Day Trip To Shibamata: Tokyo’s Magical Retro Hood
Spend a few days exploring Tokyo and you’ll start to get a sense...
Healthy Vegan Lunches at Brown Rice Canteen in Omotesando
Vegan-friendly meals used to be difficult to find...
Rockabillies, Dogs in Turtlenecks and Soothing Nature at Yoyogi Park
Whenever someone visits Tokyo, I’m quick to recommend slotting Yoyogi Park into their...
Serenity and Samurai at the Bamboo Temple: Hokokuji
A tranquil haven linked to an ancient, ruling samurai clan, Hokokuji Temple is...
5-star Luxury in a Historic Oasis: Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
When it comes to accommodation in Tokyo, it’s important to find a place...
Trams Through the Blossoms: Discovering Tokyo on the Arakawa Line
Roses line this Tokyo tram line
At its peak,...
Kyu Asakura House: Wood in a Concrete Jungle
Kyu Asakura House is an unlikely residential building with a beautiful strolling garden, nestled in the concrete heart of Shibuya.
What To Eat While Watching Sumo: Kokugikan Yakitori
Japan is a nation steeped in tradition. There is a profound reverence for...
Tokyo Rojiura Soup Curry Samurai, Shimokitazawa
Look up Shimokitazawa in most guides to the city, and you’ll quickly discover...
Refined Kaiseki and Stunning Gardens at Tofuya Ukai
We follow our hostess through the twisting and turning hallways of the converted...
Hot Pies, Cold Drinks: A Taste of Australia at Punk Doily
Biting into my classic steak pie, I relished a flavour profile I hadn’t...
The Best Tantanmen in Tokyo: Bazoku
Japan, 1977. The economy was booming, black-and-white television was a distant memory and baseball legend...
A Perfect Layover Lunch near Narita Airport: Grilled Unagi Rice Bowls at Kawatoyo
Have a layover at Narita Airport with several hours to spare? A day...
Gearing Up at the Final Fantasy XIV-Themed Eorzea Cafe in Akihabara
Calling all adventurers! The realm of Eorzea is in dire need of your...
Set Sail on a Cherry Blossom River Cruise in Tokyo
Springtime in Japan means one thing, and one thing only: cherry blossoms. The...
A Circuit Through Shimokitazawa
Shimokitazawa, known as Shimokita by locals, is one of the primary centers of...
Ariso Sushi: A Great Pre-Flight Meal at Haneda Airport
Airport food doesn’t have a good reputation. Thankfully, Haneda Airport’s culinary offerings defy...
A Brooklyn Brunch that’s Beyonce approved, right in Harajuku
One day I was on my way to Harry’s Sandwich Co., and I...
Backpacking Through Japan – An Overview
In the spring of 2019, my fiancée and I spent three weeks backpacking...
Strolling Through Yesteryear: Exploring Yanaka Ginza
After an early morning photo shoot at Nezu...
Tobusakana—A Local Seafood Izakaya in Shimokitazawa
Shimokitazawa is known for vintage fashion, soup curry, and cafes. The unceasing renovation...
Say Cheese! The Ultimate Guide to Purikura Japanese Photo Booths
If you’re looking for a fun activity that doubles as a memorable keepsake...
Elevate Your Art-Viewing Experience At Mori Art Museum
Located 50-odd floors above the streets of Roppongi, the Mori Art Museum offers...
Harajuku Art Scene: Ukiyo-e Ota Memorial Museum of Art
Looking for a dash of culture at a Tokyo museum? Skip the Harajuku...
Ueno Park: One of the Best Places to see Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo
Come springtime in Japan, there’s one thing on everybody’s mind: cherry blossoms. People...
Soup Curry in Tokyo: Where and Why You Should Eat It
If you like soup and if you love...
A Visit To The Oldest Eel Restaurant in Tokyo: Izuei Honten
Unagi is a bit of a thing in Japan. Loved for centuries with...
Kooriya Peace in Kichijoji Serves Gorgeous Shaved Ice Creations Almost Too Beautiful to Eat
Tokyo has no shortage of great shaved ice (kakigori), but even with all...
For Fabulous Shoyu Ramen, Head to Junteuchi Daruma
Whether it’s tonkotsu, salt, or miso, you’ll find all kinds of ramen in...
Meat-ya Asagaya: Tokyo’s Best Spaghetti House
Do one thing, and do it well. Many restaurants in Japan subscribe to...
Mt. Mitake: A One-Day Itinerary for Nature and Serenity
When the excitement of Tokyo has gotten to be too much, head to...
Where to get an afternoon drink in Harajuku, Tokyo
OK, so you’re on vacation and you’ve been sightseeing or shopping all day....
Visiting Hidaka (Japan’s Secret Korea) and Hiking the Mt. Hiwada, Mt. Takasashi, and Mt. Monomi Trail
It was time to get my hike on. A whirlwind of days in...
JK For A Day: Embracing Your Inner Teen In Tokyo
Living in Japan, I can’t help but look around at all the cute...
Tokyo Tower and a Tour through Surrounding Areas
Jutting out of the city center, you’d be mistaken for thinking that the...
How to Ride the Bullet Train in Japan
Riding the bullet train (also known as Shinkansen) is easily the most convenient...
Delicious French Fusion in Nakameguro
Outside the Nakameguro French Restaurant, La Gueule de Bois
We visit...
Akihabara to Ueno Part 2: An Ueno Tour
Unlike Akihabara, which comprises the first part of this tour, Ueno offers a...
The Oldest Things to See in Tokyo: Ultimate Guide
While the historic aspects of Tokyo aren’t as immediately obvious as in some...
A Charming Expedition to Tokyo’s Ancient Egyptian Museum
The Ancient Egyptian Museum is a small corner space on the eighth floor...
Unlimited Fun at Kabukicho’s Okinawa Paradise
If you’re after a rowdy night with Tokyo locals, look no further than...
Gloriously Decadent Sukiyaki at Ningyocho Imahan
If you want a meal that’s guaranteed to...
Tokyo’s Secret “Power Spot”: Meiji Jingu Inner Garden
I look on as a group of five groundskeepers silently go about their...
Dashi Chazuke En: Comfort Food Before A Flight at Narita
Narita International Airport has dozens of eating options, from ramen and sushi to...
Tips for Visiting Tokyo Disneyland
Whether you’re looking for a fun day trip while you’re in Tokyo or...
Magurodake Bono Shirakawa’s Tuna Donburi Keeps Lunch Sweet and Simple
Roppongi isn’t all swanky clubs and expensive restaurants. As with most areas in...
Visiting The World’s Tallest Tower: Tokyo Skytree
Since its opening in 2012, Tokyo Skytree has become a beloved fixture on...
International Food in Tokyo: Injera, Poutine, and Pasta
Travelers visiting Tokyo are spoiled for options when it comes to Japanese food....
Don’t Miss Tokyo’s Dreamiest Cherry Blossom Spot: Meguro River
Tiny and sweet, cherry blossoms are a sure-fire symbol of spring, and in...
Shopping locally made artisanal products at Akihabara’s 2k540
Are you on the hunt for Japanese souvenirs that are high quality and...
Tokyo Tower vs. Tokyo Skytree: Why Age Reigns Supreme
Tokyo’s skyline is locked in an epic battle between two towers. The reigning...
Soothing Summer Wind Chimes from Shinohara Furin
Shopping in Tokyo? Head to Shinohara Furin Honpo for some traditional glass wind...
All Rise for Kikuya’s Standing Tempura in Ebisu
A standing restaurant is the epitome of Japanese efficiency. No seats means more...
Exploring Shinjuku – Walking the Big Two Part 3
If Shibuya is the current center of development, commerce, and shopping, Shinjuku is...
Ferries and Cruises: A Tour of Tokyo Waterways – Part 2
Walking isn’t the only way to tour Tokyo’s extensive system of waterways. While...
Sakura Jingu Shrine: Pretty in Pink Cherry Blossoms and Ribbons
There are plenty of places to see cherry...
Tokyo’s Fabled 100 Yen Stores: Our Top Picks
For cash-strapped travellers, Tokyo’s 100 yen stores are a godsend. One hundred yen...
Spicy, Soupy, Sublime: That’s Soup Curry at Yellow Company
Eat out in Japan often enough and you’ll notice a certain dearth of...
Commune 2nd, Omotesando’s Food Truck Park Paradise
Tokyo food trucks at Commune 2nd, Omotesando.
Commune 2nd...
Grab an exquisite lunch at Hayama Ramen, Shinjuku
Hayama Ramen, Shinjuku. Some of the best ramen in Tokyo.
Starting Up and Breaking Down: Tokyo to Okinawa Day 1
Follow our road trip from Tokyo to Okinawa; fourteen days, multiple forms of...
Moominvalley Saitama: It’s Moominsummer Madness!
Hidden in the hills of Hanno and only 40 minutes from Tokyo, Moominvalley awaits. It's time for Moominsummer madness!
Top 3 Torii Gate Tunnel Photo Spots in…Tokyo!
Loving those red torii gate tunnel images from Kyoto, but just can’t get...
Tokyo Day Trip: Koedo, Kawagoe’s Breath of Edo
We hear music in the distance. Drums beat and flutes whistle a traditional...
Togoshi Ginza Shopping Street: Tokyo’s Hidden Gem
Yearning to see a more “local” side of Tokyo, but still want the...
Hinatomaru: A Sushi Bar Making A Case for Tuna Head Sushi
Asakusa is not the first place most people think of when it comes...
Nagi Shokudo is Where to Go for Affordable, Delicious Vegan Food in Shibuya
Vegans have a tough time of it in Tokyo—at least, that’s how it...
Ambling Asakusa Tour: A Tour of Old Tokyo Part 3
After a leisurely boat ride along the Sumida River, you will arrive in...
Exploring Tokyo’s Biggest Cave: Nippara Limestone Caves
At the western edge of Tokyo prefecture, around 2 hours from the city...
Vegan Food with a Side o’ Wonder at Saido Vegan Restaurant Jiyugaoka
Historically, vegetarians and vegans have had a tricky time dining out in Japan....
Best Yakitori in Nakameguro: Kushiwakamaru. The Stick Factory.
When people ask me what to eat in Tokyo, a hundred places immediately...
Da Yo Ne is A Great Little Tea Rice Bar in Roppongi
Few dishes are more comforting on a cold, rainy day than the humble...
21_21 Design Sight: Tokyo’s Modernist Masterpiece
21_21 Design Sight is a modernist gallery in Tokyo featuring exhibitions on the themes of ecology, sustainability and design.
A Mystical Sea of Clouds in Tokyo’s Historic Chinzanso Garden
If you venture out of the cities, you’ll find that Japan is a...
Finding New York Style Pizza at The Pizza in Hiroo
One of the first things I tell people who visit Tokyo is that...
Where To Get Japanese Breakfast in Tokyo Without Breaking The Bank
Are you a budget conscious traveller? If so, you’re probably not staying in...
Healthy Fast Food at Onigiri Asakusa Yadoroku
The idea of healthy fast food may seem...
Hana wa Saku in Nakano Serves A Mean Bowl of Udon
One of our favourite areas in the metropolis to hang out and eat...
Enter the Belly of the Kawaii (Cute) Beast: Harajuku’s Kawaii Monster Café
Lights, camera, monsters? Delve into the belly of the beast (a cute beast...
Tokyo’s Favourite Day Hike: Mount Takao (Takaosan)
Offering scenic hiking trails, a popular monkey park, and ancient shrines, it's no...