Top Attractions to visit in Tokyo

 As Japan’s capital and the world’s most populous metropolis, Tokyo offers tradition and innovation, and unlimited opportunities to eat, shop and explore. Tokyo is known for its fashion and shopping, from the trendy shopping districts of Harajuku and Shibuya, to the luxury flagships of Ginza. Shinjuku is the thriving business district; a mix of gleaming skyscrapers and atmospheric back streets with tiny bars. Asakusa is the heart of Tokyo’s downtown, with ancient temples and traditional stores. Tokyo is a foodie paradise with more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world, along with hundreds of cheap and delicious ramen shops. 

Exploring Tokyo's dizzying array of restaurant and dining options, from theme cafes to haute cuisine. Checking out the latest electronics, games and gadgets at Akihabara, the home of technology and anime culture. Experiencing vibrant youth culture in Harajuku and Shibuya, the trend capitals of Tokyo. Visiting Tokyo' s most famous temple, Sensoji, before ferrying down the Sumida River and learning the role the city's waterways played in Edo-era Tokyo. Tokyo is a vibrant city with a rich mix of modern and traditional attractions. Here are some top places you might want to visit.

Tokyo Tower

Standing 333 meters high in central Tokyo, Tokyo Tower (東京タワー) is the world's tallest, self-supported steel tower and 3 meters taller than its model, the Eiffel Tower. A symbol of Japan's post-war rebirth as a major economic power, Tokyo Tower was the country's tallest structure from its completion in 1958 until 2012 when it was surpassed by the Tokyo Skytree. In addition to being a popular tourist spot, Tokyo Tower serves as a broadcast antenna. The tower's main deck at 150 meters is reached via elevator or a 600-step staircase (both paid). Thanks to the tower's central location, the observatory offers an interesting view of the city despite being only at a relatively moderate height. There are also some "lookdown windows" in the floor to stand on, a souvenir shop and a cafe. A second set of elevators connect the main deck to the 250 meter high top deck, from where you can get a bird's eye view of 

Tokyo from high above the surrounding buildings. It is the third highest observation deck in Tokyo (after the two decks at the Tokyo Skytree). When visibility is good, visitors can see the Tokyo Skytree and Mount Fuji in the distance. In the building at the base of the tower, known as the Foot Town, visitors can find a selection of shops and restaurants, as well as the Red Tokyo Tower e-sports entertainment complex. A symbol of Tokyo, offering panoramic views of the city. It's especially beautiful at night when it's illuminated.

Senso-ji Temple

Sensoji, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Asakusa. It is one of Tokyo's most colorful and popular temples. The legend says that in the year 628, two brothers fished a statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, out of the Sumida River, and even though they put the statue back into the river, it always returned to them. Consequently, Sensoji was built nearby for the goddess of Kannon. The temple was completed in 645, making it Tokyo's oldest temple. The legend says that in the year 628, two brothers fished a statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, out of the Sumida River, and even though they put the statue back into the river, it always returned to them. Consequently, Sensoji was built nearby for the goddess of Kannon. The temple was completed in 645, making it Tokyo's oldest temple. The legend says that in the year 628, two brothers fished a statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, out of the Sumida River, and even though they put the statue back into the river, it always returned to them. Consequently, Sensoji was built nearby for the goddess of Kannon. The temple was completed in 645, making it Tokyo's oldest temple.

Beyond the Hozomon Gate stands the temple's main hall and a five-storied pagoda. Destroyed in the war, the buildings are relatively recent reconstructions. The Asakusa Shrine, built in the year 1649 by Tokugawa Iemitsu, stands immediately adjacent to the temple's main building. Various events are held throughout the year in the Sensoji Temple area. The biggest of them is the Sanja Matsuri, the annual festival of the Asakusa Shrine, held in May. Other events are the Asakusa Samba Carnival in August and the Hagoita-ichi (Hagoita Market) at which decorated wooden paddles used in the traditional game of hanetsuki are sold. Tokyo's oldest and most famous temple, is located in Asakusa. The surrounding area is filled with traditional shops and food stalls.

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is one of Tokyo's most recognizable sights, pictured in countless films, magazines and blogs. During its busiest times, an estimated 1,000 to 2,500 people forge their way across this intersection every two minutes, enough to quickly fill up a football stadium. The phenomenon gave rise to its nickname "scramble," as pedestrians cross from all directions. Shibuya Crossing walks the line between manic chaos and perfect synchronization. Your explorations of Tokyo  will eventually bring you here to make your crossing and take advantage of Shibuya's wealth of shopping, dining and entertainment options.  Don't Miss Visiting Hachiko, the station's iconic dog statue, people-watching as thousands of pedestrians from around the world merge, and Tokyo's top shopping at Shibuya 109, Center Gai, Tokyu, Marui and more. One of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, and a must-see for anyone visiting Tokyo. The area is also great for shopping and nightlife.

To fully appreciate the magnitude of Shibuya Crossing, and to witness its rhythmic dance in real time, view the crossing from on high. There are a number of places to do this, including the shopping centers and cafes towering over the station entrance, such as the Starbucks in the QFRONT building. Over the years Shibuya's instantly recognizable crossing has been the backdrop for countless movies and television shows both in Japan and overseas thanks to its neon-lit buildings and mix of cultures and trendsetters, just like New York's Times Square. The crossing's surrounding areas are home to a number of stores that drive Japan's fashion, food and music trends. Visit longtime trendsetter stop Shibuya 109, or walk down Center Gai to see hundreds of shops competing to sell the next big thing. If you're looking for nightlife, Shibuya's Dogenzaka area is home to Tokyo's best nightclubs and plenty of interesting restaurants and bars for every taste.

Harajuku

Known for its quirky fashion and youth culture. Takeshita Street is lined with unique shops, cafes, and boutiques. Harajuku is the area around Harajuku Station, between Shibuya and Shinjuku  on the Yamanote Line. This haven of style is centered on Takeshita Street, lined with a mix of boutiques selling the latest trends and photo-ready food. Within a few blocks, you can see styles ranging from Harajuku goth and candy-colored decora kei to Harajuku punk. Stop for snacks ranging from classic crepes to rainbow grilled cheese, giant cotton candy, and Korean hattogu. Saunter down Cat Street towards Shibuya for hipster cafes, vintage fashion, and international brands. Take a break from the sensory stimulation with a quiet stroll through the grounds of the Meiji-Jingu Shrine.

Since the 1970s, when Tokyo's fashion-obsessed shifted from Shibuya , and impromptu rock performances sprung up every Sunday, Harajuku has been a suburb long synonymous with Japan's youth-driven street-fashion scene. From the area's iconic "Lolita girls" to some of the most groundbreaking names in streetwear, Harajuku's love of trend-driven fashion sees the suburb's culture evolve and transform as its fashionistas change with the passing trends. Harajuku's unique style has been featured throughout pop culture by such fashion icons as Lady Gaga. And while its recent international attention has brought big-name brands like H&M and Topshop, the district hasn't forgotten its local roots. Takeshita Street is Harajuku's main artery.  Harajuku is arguably Tokyo's streetwear capital, and what's streetwear without sneakers? No matter your style, budget, or size, you can find an incredible selection in Harajuku's somewhat hidden sneaker district at the end of Takeshita and across the street.

Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine is a shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken. Located just beside the JR Yamanote Line's busy Harajuku Station, Meiji Shrine and the adjacent Yoyogi Park make up a large forested area within the densely built-up city and offer walking paths for a relaxing stroll away from the concrete. The shrine was completed and dedicated to the Emperor Meiji and the Empress Shoken in 1920, eight years after the passing of the emperor and six years after the passing of the empress. The shrine was destroyed during the war but was rebuilt shortly thereafter. Emperor Meiji was the first emperor of modern Japan. He was born in 1852 and ascended to the throne in 1867 at the peak of the Meiji Restoration when Japan's feudal era came to an end and the emperor was restored to power. During the Meiji Period, Japan modernized herself to join the world's major powers by the time Emperor Meiji passed away in 1912. A peaceful Shinto shrine located in a forested area near Harajuku. It’s a great spot to experience traditional Japanese culture.

The main complex of shrine buildings is located a ten minute walk from both the southern entrance near Harajuku Station and the northern entrance near Yoyogi Station. Entry into the shrine grounds is marked by a massive torii gate, after which the sights and sounds of the busy city are replaced by a tranquil forest. The approximately 100,000 trees that make up Meiji Jingu's forest were planted during the shrine's construction and were donated from regions across the entire country. At the middle of the forest, Meiji Jingu's buildings also have an air of tranquility distinct from the surrounding city. Visitors can take part in typical Shinto activities, such as making offerings at the main hall, buying charms and amulets or writing out one's wish on an ema. Meiji Jingu is one of Japan's most popular shrines. In the first days of the New Year, the shrine regularly welcomes more than three million visitors for the year's first prayers, more than any other shrine or temple in the country. During the rest of the year, traditional Shinto weddings can often be seen taking place there.

Akihabara

The heart of Tokyo's otaku culture, famous for its electronics shops, anime stores, and gaming centers. Akihabara, also called Akiba after a former local shrine, is a district in central Tokyo that is famous for its many electronics shops and has also gained recognition as the center of Japan's otaku (diehard fan) culture. Many shops and establishments devoted to anime and manga are dispersed among the electronic stores in the district. Akihabara has seen some redevelopment over the past years, which added some large, modern buildings to the mix of small to medium-sized shops and buildings. Most prominent among them is a huge Yodobashi electronics store just next to the station.

Hundreds of electronics shops, ranging from tiny one-man stalls specializing in a particular electronic component to large electronics retailers, line the main Chuo Dori street and the crowded side streets around Akihabara. They offer everything from the newest computers, cameras, televisions, mobile phones, electronics parts and home appliances to second-hand goods and electronic junk. A few chain stores such as Sofmap and Laox each operate multiple specialized branches along the main roads, while small independent shops can be found in the side streets. The character of Akihabara has constantly changed over the decades and continues to do so. In recent decades Akihabara has emerged as a center of Japanese otaku and anime culture, and dozens of stores specializing in anime, manga, retro video games, figurines, card games and other collectibles have filled the spaces between the electronics retailers.

Odaiba

A futuristic island with attractions like teamLab Borderless and the Odaiba Seaside Park. Odaiba is a popular shopping and entertainment district on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. It originated as a set of small man-made fort islands (daiba literally means "fort"), which were built in the late Edo Period (1603-1868) to protect Tokyo against possible attacks from the sea and specifically in response to the gunboat diplomacy of Commodore Perry. More than a century later, the small islands were joined into larger islands by massive landfills, and Tokyo began a spectacular development project aimed to turn the islands into a futuristic new city district during the extravagant 1980s. But development was critically slowed after the burst of the "bubble economy" in the early 1990s, leaving Odaiba nearly vacant.

It was not until the second half of the 1990s, when several hotels, shopping malls and the Yurikamome elevated train line were opened, that Odaiba developed into a popular tourist attraction and dating spot with a wide selection of shopping, dining and leisure options. Despite the initial setbacks, several lavish development projects did materialize, including some of Tokyo's boldest architectural creations, such as the Fuji TV Building, Telecom Center and Tokyo Big Sight. Modern city planning furthermore provides Odaiba with plenty of green space and a pleasant division of motorized and pedestrian traffic using elevated walkways.

Ueno Park

A large park with museums, a zoo, and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. Ueno Park is a large public park next to Ueno Station in central Tokyo. The park grounds were originally part of Kaneiji Temple, which used to be one of the city's largest and wealthiest temples and a family temple of the ruling Tokugawa clan during the Edo Period. Kaneiji stood in the northeast of the capital to protect the city from evil, much like Enryakuji Temple in Kyoto. During the Boshin Civil War, which followed the Meiji Restoration in 1868, Kaneiji suffered nearly complete destruction in a battle between the victorious forces of the new Meiji government and loyalists of the overthrown shogunate. After the battle, the temple grounds were converted into one of Japan's first Western-style parks and opened to the public in 1873. A statue of Saigo Takamori, one of the generals in the Battle of Ueno, stands near the park's southern entrance.

 At the southwestern end of the park lies Shinobazu Pond, one of many reminders of Kaneiji Temple's former grandeur. The pond represents Lake Biwako (in reference to Kaneiji's model, the Enryakuji Temple of Kyoto, which overlooks Lake Biwako). On an island in the middle of the pond stands Bentendo, a temple hall dedicated to the goddess of Benten. Today Ueno Park is famous for the many museums found on its grounds, especially the Tokyo National Museum, the National Museum for Western Art, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, and the National Science Museum. It is also home to Ueno Zoo, Japan's first zoological garden. Additionally, Ueno Park is one of Tokyo's most popular and lively cherry blossom spots with more than 1000 cherry trees lining its central pathway. The cherry blossoms are usually in bloom during late March and early April and attract large numbers of hanami parties

Tokyo Skytree

The tallest structure in Japan, offering incredible panoramic views of Tokyo. The Tokyo Skytree is a television broadcasting tower and landmark of Tokyo. It is the centerpiece of the Tokyo Skytree Town in the Sumida City Ward, not far away from Asakusa. With a height of 634 meters (634 can be read as "Musashi", a historic name of the Tokyo Region), it is the tallest structure in Japan and was the second tallest in the world at the time of its completion. A large shopping complex with an aquarium is located at its base. The highlight of the Tokyo Skytree is its two observation decks which offer spectacular views out over Tokyo. The two enclosed decks are located at heights of 350 and 450 meters respectively, making them the highest observation decks in Japan. A visit to the Tokyo Skytree starts on the 4th floor where the tickets for the first observation deck (but not for the second deck) are sold. A fast and smooth elevator ride takes visitors to the top floor of the first observation deck where tickets for the second observation deck can be purchased. Visitors then access the second deck before descending back to the first observatory where they board the elevator down to the tower's exit on the 5th floor.

Tembo Deck, the lower of the two decks is 350 meters high and spans three levels with great views from all of its floors. The top floor features tall, broad windows that offer some of the best 360 degree panoramic views of the city. The middle floor has a souvenir shop and the Musashi Sky Restaurant, which serves French-Japanese fusion cuisine, while the lowest floor features a cafe and some glass panels on the ground for a vertical look downwards. A second set of elevators connects the Tembo Deck to the 450 meter high Tembo Galleria. Dubbed "the world's highest skywalk", the Tembo Galleria consists of a sloping spiral ramp that gains height as it circles the tower. The construction of the steel and glass tube allows visitors to look down from the dizzying height of the tower and out over the Kanto Region. At the top of the spiral ramp is a more conventional observation deck floor with lounging areas and tall windows from which to look out over Tokyo. This floor is officially located at 451.2 meters and constitutes the highest point of the observation decks.

Tsukiji Outer Market

A lively market where you can enjoy fresh seafood and Japanese street food. Tsukiji Outer Market  is a district adjacent to the site of the former Tsukiji Wholesale Market. It consists of a few blocks of wholesale and retail shops, as well as restaurants crowded along narrow lanes. Here you can find fresh and processed seafood and produce alongside food-related goods such as knives. A visit to Tsukiji Outer Market is best combined with a fresh sushi breakfast or lunch at one of the local restaurants, which typically open from 5:00 in the morning to around noon or early afternoon. Because most of the fish served and sold at Tsukiji Outer Market is delivered directly from Toyosu Market, it is one of the best places in Tokyo to enjoy fresh seafood.

Roppongi Hills

Roppongi Hills is one of the best examples of a city within the city. Opened in 2003 in the heart of Tokyo's Roppongi district, the building complex features offices, apartments, shops, restaurants, a hotel, art museum, observation deck and more. The office floors are home to leading companies from the IT and financial sectors, and Roppongi Hills has become a symbol of the Japanese IT industry. At the center of Roppongi Hills stands the 238 meter Mori Tower, one of the largest buildings in the city. While most of the building is occupied by office space, the first few floors have restaurants and shops and the top few floors house an observation deck and modern art museum that are open to the public.

The Tokyo City View observation deck is one of Tokyo's best. When the weather permits, views can also be enjoyed from an open-air deck on the rooftop. Also located on Mori Tower's top floors is the Mori Art Museum, a contemporary art museum with a focus on new artistic ideas from all over the world. Other areas of interest in Roppongi Hills include the Mori Garden just behind the tower and the Grand Hyatt luxury hotel. Numerous shopping and dining options can be found all across the complex, and there is also a large cinema complex which plays both Japanese and international movies. The headquarters of TV Asahi are also located on the grounds.

Imperial Palace

The residence of the Emperor, with beautiful East Gardens open to the public. The current Imperial Palace is located on the former site of Edo Castle, a large park area surrounded by moats and massive stone walls in the center of Tokyo, a short walk from Tokyo Station. It is the residence of Japan's Imperial Family. Edo Castle used to be the seat of the Tokugawa shogun who ruled Japan from 1603 until 1867. In 1868, the shogunate was overthrown, and the country's capital and imperial residence were moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. In 1888 construction of a new Imperial Palace was completed. The palace was once destroyed during World War Two, and rebuilt in the same style, afterwards. From Kokyo Gaien, the large plaza in front of the Imperial Palace, visitors can view the Nijubashi, two bridges that form an entrance to the inner palace grounds. The stone bridge in front is called Meganebashi (Eyeglass Bridge) for its looks. The bridge in the back was formerly a wooden bridge with two levels, from which the name Nijubashi (Double Bridge) is derived. 

The inner grounds of the palace are generally not open to the public. Only on January 2 (New Year's Greeting) and February 23 (the Emperor's Birthday), visitors can enter the inner palace grounds and see the members of the Imperial Family, who make several public appearances on a balcony. Furthermore, guided tours of the palace grounds are offered during the rest of the year, although no buildings are entered. The tours take about 75 minutes and are held in English and Japanese daily at 10:00 and 13:30 except on Mondays, Sundays, and national holidays. Advance reservations can be made through the Imperial Household Agency (see links below), but same-day registrations before the start of the tours are also possible at the Kikyomon Gate.

Ginza

Tokyo's upscale shopping district with luxury stores and gourmet dining. The Ginza is Tokyo's most famous upmarket shopping, dining, and entertainment district, featuring numerous department stores, boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, nightclubs, and cafes. One square meter of land in the district's center is worth over ten million yen, making it one of the most expensive real estate in Japan. From 1612 to 1800, today's Ginza district was the site of a silver coin mint (Ginza means "silver mint" in Japanese), after which the district was eventually named. The Ginza evolved as an upmarket shopping district following the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake. Most shops in the Ginza district are open every day of the week. A visit is most pleasant on weekend afternoons when the central Chuo Dori street is closed to automobile traffic and becomes a large pedestrian zone. 

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

A tranquil garden with a mix of Japanese, English, and French styles, perfect for a peaceful stroll. Shinjuku Gyoen originated during the Edo Period (1603-1868) as a feudal lord's Tokyo residence. Later it was converted into a botanical garden before being transferred to the Imperial Family in 1903 who used it for recreation and the entertainment of guests. The park was almost completely destroyed during World War II, but was eventually rebuilt and reopened in 1949 as a public park. Shinjuku Gyoen is comprised of three different types of gardens: The oldest is a traditional Japanese landscape garden featuring large ponds dotted with islands and bridges. Well-manicured shrubs and trees surround the water together with several pavilions and the Kyu Goryotei (also called the Taiwan Pavilion) which was built on the occasion of the wedding of the Showa Emperor. A chrysanthemum exhibit is held during the first two weeks of November in the Japanese garden with numerous flower displays.

The park's other main gardens include a symmetrically arranged, formal French garden, and an English landscape garden featuring wide, open lawns surrounded by flowering cherry trees. The rest of the park consists of forested areas, lawns, and several structures including a restaurant, an information center and an art gallery. There is also a beautiful greenhouse with many tropical and subtropical flowers. Shinjuku Gyoen is home to a large number of cherry trees of more than a dozen different varieties. From late March to early April, more than 400 Somei Yoshino trees blossom around the English garden, turning the lawns into one of Tokyo's most popular and pleasant hanami spots. In addition, the park has numerous early and late blooming cherry trees which provide an extended cherry blossom viewing season for those who miss the main season. Shinjuku Gyoen is also nice to visit during autumn when the leaves change. There are a lot of different types of trees that change colors around the park, however, the maple trees are particularly beautiful and can be seen in large numbers around the Japanese garden and Momijiyama ("maple mountain") on the park's eastern side. The colors typically appear from mid-November to mid-December.

Why Visit Tokyo

Visiting Tokyo offers a unique blend of the old and the new, making it one of the most fascinating cities in the world. Tokyo is home to historic sites like the Meiji Shrine and Senso-ji Temple, where you can experience Japan’s spiritual traditions. From tea ceremonies to kabuki theater, Tokyo offers countless opportunities to engage with Japan's traditional arts. Tokyo's skyline is a testament to its futuristic design, with landmarks like Tokyo Tower and the Tokyo Skytree. As a global hub of technology, Tokyo is the place to experience cutting-edge gadgets and the latest trends. Tokyo has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city. From sushi to ramen, the food scene is diverse and exquisite.  Enjoy local favorites like takoyaki, taiyaki, and yakitori at markets and food stalls. 

From the high-end boutiques in Ginza to the quirky stores in Harajuku, Tokyo is a shopper's dream.  Pick up unique Japanese items like anime merchandise, traditional crafts, and quirky gadgets. Areas like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Roppongi are famous for their bustling nightlife, with bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. Explore the traditional side of Tokyo with historic temples, narrow streets, and traditional shops. Tokyo is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a tech enthusiast, or just looking for a unique travel experience.