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
Tokyo Tower vs. Tokyo Skytree: Why Age Reigns Supreme
Tokyo’s skyline is locked in an epic battle between two towers. The reigning...
The Best Narita Airport Sushi Bar: Standing Sushi Bar in Terminal 3
Narita International Airport is one of Japan’s major air gateways, serving millions of travellers each...
Sightseeing in Shibuya – Walking the Big Two Part 1
Shibuya and Shinjuku are the two biggest urban centers in Tokyo and two...
Tokyo Tower and a Tour through Surrounding Areas
Jutting out of the city center, you’d be mistaken for thinking that the...
Phenomenal Ramen in the Suburbs: Shibasakitei in Umegaoka
With literally thousands of ramen restaurants in Central Tokyo and across the Greater...
Views and Booze at The Peak Lounge and Bar at Park Hyatt
If you only have a limited time in Tokyo, you’ll no doubt be...
Stroll through Architectural History at Tokyo’s Open-Air Folk House Museum
In its sunken hearth, the fire crackles enticingly. Its guardian, an elderly woman...
Lose yourself in the Digital Landscapes of TeamLab Borderless
Not sure if you’ve heard, but the whole Tokyo city lights and neon...
The Oldest Things to See in Tokyo: Ultimate Guide
While the historic aspects of Tokyo aren’t as immediately obvious as in some...
Retro cocktails, hip coffee, and Michelin Italian food: An evening in Yoyogi Uehara
On the outskirts of Shibuya-ku, Yoyogi Uehara has a reputation for being a...
Starting Up and Breaking Down: Tokyo to Okinawa Day 1
Follow our road trip from Tokyo to Okinawa; fourteen days, multiple forms of...
Hanami in Inokashira Park: A How To Guide
It would be a shame to be in Japan during cherry blossom season...
All Rise for Kikuya’s Standing Tempura in Ebisu
A standing restaurant is the epitome of Japanese efficiency. No seats means more...
Trams Through the Blossoms: Discovering Tokyo on the Arakawa Line
Roses line this Tokyo tram line
At its peak,...
Dashi Chazuke En: Comfort Food Before A Flight at Narita
Narita International Airport has dozens of eating options, from ramen and sushi to...
Yes, Cold Noodles Are Cool: Sanpotei Tokyo Lab’s Hiyashi Tantanmen
Summer in Tokyo is deadly. We’re not even joking: hundreds of people in...
Top 3 Torii Gate Tunnel Photo Spots in…Tokyo!
Loving those red torii gate tunnel images from Kyoto, but just can’t get...
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.
Soothing Summer Wind Chimes from Shinohara Furin
Shopping in Tokyo? Head to Shinohara Furin Honpo for some traditional glass wind...
Halloween Hijinx at Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea
Halloween is one of the spookiest events on the calendar; a time for...
Skating the Art Rink at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse: Fun Winter Activities in Tokyo
Toddlers giggle, adults fall flat on their back, and a select few swoop...
Mt. Mitake: A One-Day Itinerary for Nature and Serenity
When the excitement of Tokyo has gotten to be too much, head to...
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...
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...
Shopping locally made artisanal products at Akihabara’s 2k540
Are you on the hunt for Japanese souvenirs that are high quality and...
Akihabara to Ueno Part 1 – An Akihabara Trek
The districts of Akihabara and Ueno sit next to one another and offer...
Toyosu Market Sushi Restaurant: Iso Sushi
Iso Sushi (or Isozushi) restaurant was a Tsukiji...
Visiting The World’s Tallest Tower: Tokyo Skytree
Since its opening in 2012, Tokyo Skytree has become a beloved fixture on...
Sakura Jingu Shrine: Pretty in Pink Cherry Blossoms and Ribbons
There are plenty of places to see cherry...
Tokyo Rojiura Soup Curry Samurai, Shimokitazawa
Look up Shimokitazawa in most guides to the city, and you’ll quickly discover...
Crossing the Rainbow Bridge and Diving Into an Odaiba Tour
The artificial island of Odaiba is one of the primary leisure centers in...
Could ‘American’ Be The Biggest Sandwich In Tokyo?
Ginza, Tokyo. An upscale neighbourhood all about high-end shopping and dining. As such, many cuisines...
A Day Trip To Shibamata: Tokyo’s Magical Retro Hood
Spend a few days exploring Tokyo and you’ll start to get a sense...
Unlimited Fun at Kabukicho’s Okinawa Paradise
If you’re after a rowdy night with Tokyo locals, look no further than...
Tokyo Sake Bar in Ebisu: Frozen Sake Bar Buri
Head west of Ebisu Station into the backstreets...
Exploring the Tarō Okamoto Memorial Museum
If you’re a fan of avant-garde artwork, you’ve probably heard of Tarō Okamoto....
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...
Exploring Local Nightlife at a Japanese Yokocho
For an authentic, down-to-earth Japanese dining experience, head straight for the nearest yokocho,...
Exploring The Tokyo Sewerage Museum “Rainbow”
If you’re a fan of all things public works, the Tokyo Sewerage Museum...
Kichijoji Tour: Hammocks, Shopping and Parks
Kichijoji is a favorite destination for both tourists and Tokyo residents. With a...
A $500 Sandwich At Nakameguro’s Wagyu Mafia
In Tokyo, you can totally get by eating on a dime. But when...
Gluten-Free in Tokyo: Everything You Need to Know
Visiting new places with an allergy can be hard. However, knowing what you...
Akihabara to Ueno Part 2: An Ueno Tour
Unlike Akihabara, which comprises the first part of this tour, Ueno offers a...
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...
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...
Tokyo’s Secret Wilderness: Exploring Todoroki Valley
Todoroki Valley is one of Tokyo’s best-kept secrets. Had your fill of busy...
Sangenjaya Tour – Burgers, Cafes and a Stop in the Park
Tokyo is filled with trendy neighborhoods. Some of them, like Ginza, are more...
Sampling, Shopping and Snacking at Tokyu Food Show
Food lovers, prepare yourselves for one of the most dangerous foodie activities in...
Rare and Extreme Japanese Beers on Tap at Beer Boy
Beer lovers have plenty to be happy about in Japan. From cheap cans...
Exploring Cosplay Shops in Tokyo. Destination: Akihabara.
Many a Tokyo guidebook will suggest a visit to the neighbourhood of Akihabara....
All Day Breakfast in Tokyo at Tractor, Nakameguro
Laid back, tattooed staff, grungy design, avocado on toast and cold drip coffee....
Shibuya’s Underbelly: A Walk Through Love Hotel Hill and Dogenzaka
Shibuya may have the reputation of being a teen shopping mecca with a...
Zōjōji Temple, underneath Tokyo Tower, is full of great local history!
If you’re only going to visit a few religious sites in Tokyo, put...
Ambling Asakusa Tour: A Tour of Old Tokyo Part 3
After a leisurely boat ride along the Sumida River, you will arrive in...
Nakameguro Tour – A Taste of Trendiness
If you’re looking to get a taste of cozy bistros and trendy cafés,...
Get Your Fill at Tokyo’s All-You-Can-Eat Restaurants
If you arrive in Tokyo with a big appetite, you should have every...
Why Yanaka ‘Cat Town’ Is THE Place For Cat Lovers in Tokyo
If you’re coming to Tokyo and worry you’ll...
Soup Curry in Tokyo: Where and Why You Should Eat It
If you like soup and if you love...
Tokyo Craft Beer at Far Yeast Brewing in Shibuya
Note: the Shibuya location moved to Gotanda to...
Kungyokudo Incense: Modernity Meets Tradition in Tokyo
While shopping in Japan, there is a huge range of souvenirs to choose...
Head To Toriyoshi For Some Juicy, Smoky, High-Quality Yakitori
Many cultures have something similar to yakitori in their cuisine—meat or vegetables threaded...
Digging Through Don Don Down on Wednesday
Shopping for second-hand clothing in Tokyo isn’t quite the cost-saving measure it is...
Japanese Edible Candy Art: Amezaiku at Ameshin
Amezaiku is an ancient art requiring intense concentration and skill. Specifically, amezaiku is...
Prime Chicken and Flaming Charcoal at Ganchan Roppongi
Yakitori has to be one of my favourite meals in Japan. It’s an...
Gotokuji, Tokyo’s Lucky Cat Temple
You may not known their name, but no doubt you’ve seen those white...
Tips for Catching the Train or Bus in Tokyo
Using public transport in Tokyo can feel overwhelming, it’s the largest city in...
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...
Indie Cinema in Tokyo: Human Trust, Shibuya
Tokyo Cinema Scene
For...
Buckle up for Tokyo Mario Kart Tours
Tokyo Mario Kart Tours!? These Nintendo-esque go-kart street tours have to be one...
Jindaiji Temple: A Spiritual Day Trip From Tokyo
Follow the Keio line to Chofu in West Tokyo where you'll find a...
Onden’s Japanese Curry Rice—a Taste of Home in the Heart of Harajuku
To the average Tokyoite, Harajuku evokes youth culture and fashion. It’s where you...
The Stages of Tokyo: A Guide to Traditional Tokyo Theater
Most theater fans both in Japan and abroad have heard of kabuki. The...
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...
Grab an exquisite lunch at Hayama Ramen, Shinjuku
Hayama Ramen, Shinjuku. Some of the best ramen in Tokyo.
How to Ride the Bullet Train in Japan
Riding the bullet train (also known as Shinkansen) is easily the most convenient...
Mizumoto Park: Tokyo’s Biggest and Best Place to See Irises
The northeastern reaches of Tokyo are home to the oft-overlooked Katsushika Ward, bordered...
Yanaka Beer Hall: Craft Beer In A Traditional Setting
With its bustling Ginza shopping street, veteran shopkeepers,...
A Taste of Home: Tokyo’s International Grocery Stores
It happens to the best of us. You’ve planned your trip, you’re all...
Gomaya Kuki – World’s Richest Black Sesame Ice Cream?
If you have a sweet tooth and you’re visiting Japan, green tea-flavoured desserts...
Urban Oasis: Aoyama Flower Market Teahouse
Interior of Tokyo cafe 'Aoyama Flower Market Teahouse'
The...
Late Night Eats at Ebisu Yokocho
By day, the neighbourhood of Ebisu hums with shoppers, museum-goers and the lunchtime...
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...
Cook your own dinner at Sakura Tei Okonomiyaki
The artistic interior of Harajuku Okonomiyaki purveyors 'Sakura Tei'.
Pizza Slice—A Taste of New York in Tokyo
Japanese pizza has a reputation for being a little strange. Where else would...
Strolling Through Yesteryear: Exploring Yanaka Ginza
After an early morning photo shoot at Nezu...
Meat-ya Asagaya: Tokyo’s Best Spaghetti House
Do one thing, and do it well. Many restaurants in Japan subscribe to...
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...
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...
Kurogi’s Killer Kinako Kakigori – A Shaved Ice Dessert to Die For
Kinako, or roasted soybean flour, might be a difficult sell if you’ve never...
Tokyo’s Plum Blossom Season: Where and why you should go
While much ado is made about Japan's cherry blossom season, winter-weary travellers should...
Tips for Visiting Tokyo Disneyland
Whether you’re looking for a fun day trip while you’re in Tokyo or...
Rockabillies, Dogs in Turtlenecks and Soothing Nature at Yoyogi Park
Whenever someone visits Tokyo, I’m quick to recommend slotting Yoyogi Park into their...
California Cuisine from a San Francisco punk rock veteran in Shibuya
*Note: This restaurant is no longer operating*
“Tonight there’s gonna...
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...
Standing Yakiniku Restaurant Jiromaru: a great place for A5 Wagyu Beef
Whenever I have visitors in town, I love taking them to a stand-up...
For Fabulous Shoyu Ramen, Head to Junteuchi Daruma
Whether it’s tonkotsu, salt, or miso, you’ll find all kinds of ramen in...
Experience Summer Fireflies in Tokyo at Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
At night, the winding paths of Tokyo’s Chinzanso Garden are bathed in a...
River Walks: A Tour of Tokyo’s Waterways – Part 1
From the jam-packed transit system to the teeming walkways around hubs like Shibuya...
Enter a Magical Wonderland at the Shibuya Disney Store
For Disney fans, a visit to Japan is a no brainer. There’s Tokyo...
Tokyo Zoos: A Guide to Tokyo’s Wild Side
Amidst the towering skyscrapers of downtown Tokyo and the low grey concrete of...