πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅ Tokyo, Japan

Things to Do in Tokyo

Top attractions, hidden gems, and free activities. Everything you need for the perfect Tokyo experience.

8
Attractions
0
Free Activities
19h
Total Time
$80
Top 10 Cost
⭐

Must-See in Tokyo

#1
⛩️
Senso-ji Temple

Tokyo's oldest and most significant Buddhist temple located in the historic Asakusa district. The iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) with its massive red lantern welcomes visitors to Nakamise shopping street leading to the main hall. The temple grounds offer a glimpse into traditional Japan with incense rituals, fortune telling (omikuji), and beautiful architecture. Early morning visits provide the most peaceful experience before tourist crowds arrive.

⏱️ 2h
#2
πŸŒ„
Tokyo Skytree

The tallest tower in Japan at 634 meters, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the Tokyo metropolis and beyond. On clear days, Mount Fuji is visible from the observation decks. The tower features two observation decks at 350m and 450m, along with the Solamachi shopping complex at its base with over 300 shops and restaurants. A must-visit for understanding the sheer scale of Tokyo.

⏱️ 2h
#3
⛩️
Meiji Shrine

A serene Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, set within 170 acres of forested parkland in the heart of Tokyo. The walk through the towering torii gates and peaceful forest provides a stark contrast to the nearby bustle of Harajuku. Visitors can witness traditional Shinto rituals, write wishes on wooden ema plaques, and experience Japanese spiritual culture. The adjacent Yoyogi Park is perfect for relaxation.

⏱️ 1.5h
πŸ“…
If You Have 1 Day
The essential Tokyo experience
  • 1Senso-ji Temple2h
  • 2Tokyo Skytree2h
  • 3Meiji Shrine1.5h
  • 4teamLab Borderless Azabudai3h
Total: ~8.5 hoursEst. cost: ~$40
πŸ—“οΈ
Weekend Itinerary
2 days of Tokyo highlights

Day 1

  • Senso-ji Temple
  • Tokyo Skytree
  • Meiji Shrine
  • teamLab Borderless Azabudai

Day 2

  • Tsukiji Outer Market
  • Shibuya Crossing & Shibuya Sky
  • Tokyo National Museum
  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Total: ~19 hoursEst. cost: ~$80
πŸ’°

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* Estimates based on typical entry fees. Actual prices may vary.

All Attractions

⛩️

Senso-ji Temple

temple

Tokyo's oldest and most significant Buddhist temple located in the historic Asakusa district. The iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) with its massive red lantern welcomes visitors to Nakamise shopping street leading to the main hall. The temple grounds offer a glimpse into traditional Japan with incense rituals, fortune telling (omikuji), and beautiful architecture. Early morning visits provide the most peaceful experience before tourist crowds arrive.

⏱️ 2h

Quick Info

⏱️ Duration2h
πŸ’° PriceVaries
πŸŒ… Best TimeAny time
πŸ“ AreaCity Center
πŸŒ„

Tokyo Skytree

viewpoint

The tallest tower in Japan at 634 meters, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the Tokyo metropolis and beyond. On clear days, Mount Fuji is visible from the observation decks. The tower features two observation decks at 350m and 450m, along with the Solamachi shopping complex at its base with over 300 shops and restaurants. A must-visit for understanding the sheer scale of Tokyo.

⏱️ 2h

Quick Info

⏱️ Duration2h
πŸ’° PriceVaries
πŸŒ… Best TimeAny time
πŸ“ AreaCity Center
⛩️

Meiji Shrine

temple

A serene Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, set within 170 acres of forested parkland in the heart of Tokyo. The walk through the towering torii gates and peaceful forest provides a stark contrast to the nearby bustle of Harajuku. Visitors can witness traditional Shinto rituals, write wishes on wooden ema plaques, and experience Japanese spiritual culture. The adjacent Yoyogi Park is perfect for relaxation.

⏱️ 1.5h

Quick Info

⏱️ Duration1.5h
πŸ’° PriceVaries
πŸŒ… Best TimeAny time
πŸ“ AreaCity Center
πŸ›οΈ

teamLab Borderless Azabudai

museum

An immersive digital art museum where artworks move, flow, and interact with visitors. The museum features a world of artworks without boundaries that change based on viewer presence and behavior. Stunning light installations, interactive water displays, and room-scale projections create an otherworldly experience. One of Tokyo's most Instagram-worthy attractions and a testament to Japan's innovation in blending art and technology.

⏱️ 3h

Quick Info

⏱️ Duration3h
πŸ’° PriceVaries
πŸŒ… Best TimeAny time
πŸ“ AreaCity Center
πŸ›οΈ

Tsukiji Outer Market

market

While the famous inner fish market moved to Toyosu, the outer market remains Tokyo's best destination for fresh seafood and Japanese culinary culture. Narrow lanes packed with vendors sell the freshest sushi, tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet), wagyu beef, and countless Japanese delicacies. Come hungry for breakfast or early lunch to experience Tokyo's food scene at its most authentic. Many shops close by early afternoon.

⏱️ 2.5h

Quick Info

⏱️ Duration2.5h
πŸ’° PriceVaries
πŸŒ… Best TimeAny time
πŸ“ AreaCity Center
πŸŒ„

Shibuya Crossing & Shibuya Sky

viewpoint

Experience the world's busiest pedestrian crossing where up to 3,000 people cross simultaneously during peak times. For the best views, visit Shibuya Sky's open-air rooftop observation deck on the 46th floor of Shibuya Scramble Square, offering 360-degree panoramic views including the crossing below. The area also offers excellent shopping, dining, and access to the famous Hachiko statue.

⏱️ 2h

Quick Info

⏱️ Duration2h
πŸ’° PriceVaries
πŸŒ… Best TimeAny time
πŸ“ AreaCity Center
πŸ›οΈ

Tokyo National Museum

museum

Japan's oldest and largest museum housing the world's most comprehensive collection of Japanese art and antiquities. Over 110,000 objects including national treasures, samurai armor, ancient pottery, Buddhist sculptures, and ukiyo-e woodblock prints tell the story of Japanese civilization. The main building and surrounding galleries in Ueno Park provide hours of cultural exploration.

⏱️ 3.5h

Quick Info

⏱️ Duration3.5h
πŸ’° PriceVaries
πŸŒ… Best TimeAny time
πŸ“ AreaCity Center
🌳

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

nature

One of Tokyo's largest and most beautiful parks, seamlessly blending three distinct garden styles: traditional Japanese, formal French, and English landscape. The park spans 144 acres and is famous for cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage. A perfect escape from Tokyo's urban intensity, with spacious lawns, serene ponds, and a greenhouse featuring tropical and subtropical plants.

⏱️ 2.5h

Quick Info

⏱️ Duration2.5h
πŸ’° PriceVaries
πŸŒ… Best TimeAny time
πŸ“ AreaCity Center
πŸ—ΊοΈ

πŸ’‘ Sightseeing Tips for Tokyo

1

Book popular sites in advance. Major attractions sell out weeks aheadβ€”book online to avoid disappointment.

2

Go early or late. Major attractions are packed midday. Visit at opening time or after 5pm for smaller crowds.

3

Look for free entry days. Many museums offer free entry on certain days or evenings.

4

Get a city pass. If you're visiting multiple attractions, city passes often save money and include transport.

πŸ”— More About Tokyo

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