Travel Insights

From ancient shrines, zen gardens, and museums to almost-futuristic streetscapes and attractions – Tokyo is the ideal destination for those craving a blast of rich and divergent culture.

People in Tokyo covet their tradition and culture as well as their cutting-edge contribution to technology, and this is wonderful paradox is intricately woven into the fabric of life in Tokyo.

In this article, we’ll list 14 spots that are representative of the spirit of Tokyo – while we recommend you stay back to enjoy all of them, you can also choose to cherry pick and make your way to spots that cater to your area of interest.

14 things to see and experience in Tokyo, Japan

1. Tokyo National Museum

Established in 1872, the Tokyo National Museum houses several Asian artworks and artifacts, with a particular focus on Japan. The museum, located in the historic Ueno park, also houses 87 Japanese National Treasure holdings.

Don’t forget to visit the tea house and the back garden in the museum premises.

2. Meiji Shrine

This shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken and is located in the quirky Harajuku district. The shrine and the adjacent Yoyogi park offer a tranquil atmosphere with peaceful garden paths as well as opportunities to indulge in traditional Shinto activities in the middle of the world’s most densely populated city.

You can visit this haven of peace any day between 9 AM and 4:30 PM.

3. Sensoji Templei

If you’re a sucker for legends, don’t forget to visit Japan’s oldest (completed in 645 AD) and most colorful temple – the Sensoji Temple (also called the Asakusa Kannon Temple).

It’s a Buddhist temple for the most part, but it’s also dedicated to the goddess of mercy, Kannon.

4. The Imperial Palace

The current Imperial Palace is located at the site of the former Edo castle (did you know Tokyo was earlier called Edo?) at a short distance from Tokyo station.

After the fall of Japan’s feudal shogunate, Emperor Meiji shifted the capital from Kyoto to Tokyo and this palace was constructed as a residence for Japan’s imperial family.

The grounds of the castle are surrounded by robust stone walls and moats, and the inner palace grounds are closed to the public except on New Year’s Greetings day (January 2) and the Emperor’s birthday (December 23).

Nevertheless, a guided tour of the outer palace grounds is a great way to immerse yourself in the history of modern Japan.

5. Miraikan or the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation

The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation established by Japan’s Science and Technology Agency celebrates the country’s innovative spirit in the technological space.

Kids and adults alike flock to the museum on weekends and public holidays to see traditional as well as off-beat science exhibits. The museum is also known for its special yearly exhibits including The World of Manga Experienced Through Science (2012) and Pokémon Lab: You do it! You discover! (2015).

6. Edo-Tokyo Museum

Eager to know about the history of Tokyo in particular on your Japan visit? The Edo-Tokyo museum is a great place to start.

The museum’s exhibits depict the culture, tradition, and way of life from the Edo period to the recent decades. The museum also houses special Tokyo-themed exhibits from time to time.

Visit the museum anytime between 9:30 AM to 5 PM Tuesday-Sunday.

7. Ghibli Museum

Ghibli Museum is dedicated to Japan’s Studio Ghibli, which is known for some of the most heartfelt animated movies of all time, including Spirited Away and Ponyo.

The museum sheds light on the mechanics of Japan’s animation industry and is a charming building with winding staircases, a rooftop garden, and narrow corridors reminiscent of the universe created by the iconic studio.

Tours of this museum are quite exclusive – which means you have to book way in advance!

8. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Formerly the tallest structure in Tokyo, this building is visited by thousands of visitors every year for the phenomenal views of iconic Japanese monuments from its observation decks.

On a good day with clear weather you can see Mount Fuji, the Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Dome, Tokyo Skytree, and Tokyo tower from here.

9. Shinjuku Gyo-en National Garden

The Shinjuku Gyo-en National Garden is a mesmerizing green space in Tokyo that looks straight out of a fairy tale.

The garden has various landscaped sections, including the English Landscape, French Formal, Japanese Traditional, and the Mother and Child Forest.

If you end up here in the cherry blossom season (March to April), you may never want to leave!

10. Ginza

Ginza is the most energetic and luxurious area in Tokyo, with several cafes, high street stores for fashion and make up, gourmet eateries, as well as old school beer halls.

Visit the Kabuki (dance drama) theatre, gorge on fresh sea food at the Tsukiji Jougai area, shop duty free at Japan’s biggest flagship store Laox, sample eel sushi at the Sushi no Midori restaurant – the possibilities are endless in Ginza.

11. Akihabara

Looking for the best place to sample Japan’s underground culture and shop the latest gadgets at a bargain? Visit Akihabara.

Drop in to Mandarake, the largest anime and Manga store in the world, shop hi-tech gadgets at Yodobashi Camera, sample themed food and beverage at Gundam cafe, visit the eclectic Maid cafe – Akihabara is the center of Tokyo’s Otaku culture!

12. Tokyo Sea Life Park

Japan is famous for its aquariums, and the country’s most famous marine exhibit is the Tokyo Sea Life Park (a short walk from JR Kasai Rinkai Koen Station).

Step in and be mesmerized by hundreds of marine species from tropical, temperate, as well as arctic regions.

13. Tokyo Disney Resort, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disney Sea

Tokyo Disney Resort, located just a short train ride from Tokyo station, comprises two theme parks – Tokyo Disneyland and the more exotic Tokyo Disney Sea. The Tokyo Disney Resort complex also has the magnificent Ikspiari mall and several luxurious hotels.

Tokyo Disneyland was the first Disney-themed park to be built outside the US and is modeled after the Disney theme park in California as well as Magic Kingdom in Florida.

Tokyo Disneyland has a fun-packed day in store for you no matter how old you are, with familiar as well as special exhibits and parades throughout the year!

Tokyo Disney Sea is a fantasy theme park with distinct themed ports: Arabian Coast, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery, Mediterranean Harbor, Mysterious Island, Mermaid Lagoon, and American Waterfront.

Explore the world of Jules Verne (Mysterious Island), relax on a Gondola a la Venice (Mediterranean Harbor), or step into the magical world of Aladdin (Arabian Coast), among other equally thrilling exhibits here.

14. Tokyo Skytree

If you can’t pass up opportunities to take in phenomenal panoramic views of a city’s skyline, visit the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest building in Japan and the second tallest in the world at the time of its completion.

Apart from the observation decks, Tokyo Skytree also has a huge mall and an aquarium!

The Wrap – When is the best time to visit Tokyo?

Tokyo has much to offer throughout the year! Visit in October, November, March, and April to sightsee in comfortable weather and during January-February to take advantage of off-season deals. However, if you want to step into a fairytale, plan your trip to Tokyo in the cherry blossom season (March-April).

Happy planning!