Top 10 Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan

When Tokyo comes to mind, images of neon-lit streets, busy crowds, and towering skyscrapers often appear. Beyond that, however, there are countless exciting things to do, such as immersing yourself in the world of anime and games in Akihabara, enjoying a drink at an izakaya, or taking a day trip to Mount Fuji. Each experience is so amazing, you can't help but exclaim! Let's dive into this Japan tour and discover more unmissable experiences in Tokyo.

Enjoy Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea

Tokyo Disney Resort is an absolute must-visit on your Tokyo itinerary. You might wonder why you should go there when many countries have a Disney park. The reason is simple: Tokyo has both Tokyo Disneyland and the globally exclusive DisneySea.

Tokyo Disneyland is inspired by classic Disney movies and characters. Popular attractions include Pooh's Hunny Hunt, Cinderella's Fairy Tale Hall, and Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast. There are also daytime parades and evening lights and fireworks shows, making it a top choice for families and Disney fans.

Adjacent to Disneyland, DisneySea's theme is ocean and adventure, providing more thrilling and intense rides that are better suited for teens and adults. You can take a boat ride for "Anna and Elsa's Frozen Journey" or start a temple escape in "Indiana Jones Adventure."

The resorts' scene designs create a highly immersive experience. Even if you've visited Disney parks in other countries, Tokyo's Disney Resort offers plenty of new things worth experiencing.

Find Calm in Meiji Shrine

Torii Gate

For a moment of tranquility in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, consider a visit to Meiji Shrine. This shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, is surrounded by a forest of over 100,000 trees, making it one of the most peaceful places in central Tokyo. Before entering the shrine, you'll pass through a massive wooden torii gate, one of the largest in Japan. Inside the shrine, you can offer prayers, write wishes on ema (votive tablets), or wish for good fortune at Kiyomasa's Well.

Meiji Shrine is also a popular place for traditional Shinto weddings, so you'll often see couples in their elegant wedding clothes. If you're planning to get married, you could even organize a Japanese-style wedding here. And if you're thinking of a honeymoon, Odynovo can help plan one just for you.

Wear Kimono and Visit Senso-ji Temple

Nakamise-dori street

Senso-ji Temple, one of Japan's best temples, is also a highly frequented tourist spot. Its main entrance, Kaminarimon Gate, is usually crowded, leading directly into the lively Nakamise-dori street. This street is lined with traditional shops selling various Japanese snacks and souvenirs, such as ningyo-yaki (a small, baked cake filled with sweet red bean paste), senbei (rice crackers), and yokan (traditional Japanese confectionery). Consider renting or buying a kimono nearby to enhance your experience while exploring this street. Many shopfronts are adorned with lanterns, creating an overall atmosphere perfect for memorable photos.

Further on, you'll reach Senso-ji Temple. In front of the main hall, there's an incense burner where many people pause to bathe in the smoke. It is believed that it offers purification and wards off evil - it's worth trying. After visiting the temple, you can buy an omikuji (fortune slip) to see what fate holds. If you draw a bad fortune, tie it to the outside rack (to change your fate); if you draw a good one, take it home with you.

Explore Tokyo Skytree and Nearby

Tokyo Skytree and Street View

Tokyo Skytree is Japan's tallest building and a significant landmark in Tokyo. You can go up to the observation deck to enjoy a magnificent 360-degree view of the city from 350 meters high. No worries if you have a fear of heights, you can still admire its grandeur from the ground. The nearby Tokyo Solamachi is a shopping paradise with over 300 shops, including shopping, dining, and an aquarium. Perhaps you could visit the Sumida Aquarium, located on the fifth and sixth floors of Tokyo Skytree Town's West Yard area, which has Japan's largest indoor pool tanks. It's home to a wide variety of marine life, and especially as night falls, the changing lights create a dreamlike atmosphere.

Anime and Gaming Fun in Akihabara

Akihabara is widely recognized as the center of Japanese otaku culture. It is packed with various themed stores, model shops, and game centers. If you're a fan of otaku and anime culture, and looking for the best anime things to do in Akihabara, you'll find that there are many stores selling garage kits, manga, and exclusive merch - it's the perfect time to "stock up." You can also try your luck at a gashapon machine. Akihabara Gachapon Kaikan has the widest selection, so give it a spin and see if you can get what you like.

For gaming enthusiasts, head to an arcade to challenge rhythm games, racing games, or classic arcade games and fully enjoy your gaming time. When you need a break, why not visit a maid cafe for a themed service and warm hospitality? Just remember to respect the cafe's rules, such as no unauthorized photos of the maids and no physical contact.

Walk Around Bustling Shinjuku

Shinjuku Street View

The first impression of Shinjuku for many is its dense crowds and quick rhythm. When night falls and neon lights begin to shine, Kabukicho (known as Tokyo's famous sleepless district) becomes the city's most eye-catching spot. Here, you can enjoy the nightlife to the fullest at various izakayas and karaoke bars. As you wander, don't be startled if you look up and see Godzilla's head - it is a landmark of Kabukicho, and you can get a closer look at it from the Hotel Gracery Shinjuku's Godzilla Terrace. From 12 PM to 8 PM, the Godzilla head "comes alive" every hour, with its eyes glowing red and emitting roars.

But Shinjuku isn't just for nighttime fun, there are plenty of things to do during the day, too. You can shop at department stores and drugstores (for some cosmetics) or head to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, one of Tokyo's most popular parks, to relax on its wide lawns and winding paths.

Learn About Sumo at Ryogoku Kokugikan

Sumo Museum

Sumo is Japan's national sport, and the Ryogoku Kokugikan is its main venue, making it an excellent place to understand traditional Japanese sports culture. The Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournaments are held here annually in January, May, and September. If you happen to be in Tokyo during these times, don't miss the chance to witness a thrilling sumo tournament. The lively atmosphere is sure to ignite your excitement.

On days without tournaments, you can still visit the Sumo Museum inside the Ryogoku Kokugikan. It features Nishikie (woodblock prints) depicting ancient sumo champions and various related artifacts, allowing you to trace the sport's evolution and past. Please note that entry to this museum is usually free, but a ticket is required during the Grand Sumo Tournaments.

Taste Authentic Tokyo Food

Izakaya in Tokyo

You don't always need to opt for high-class restaurants when dining in Tokyo. Instead, you can choose an izakaya or find a yokocho (alleyway). These places have a more relaxed environment and give you a better feel for local life. At an izakaya, be sure to order yakiniku (Japanese BBQ), tonkatsu (deep-fried pork cutlet), and monjayaki (a type of Japanese pan-fried batter), paired with a draft beer or shochu. It will be a meal to remember.

Omoide Yokocho is a nostalgic alleyway. It is crowded with food vendors, filled with delightful smells of food, and densely packed with seats. This is exactly what makes it the perfect place to taste authentic Tokyo food.

Drive a Street Go-Kart in Tokyo

Ever only driven a go-kart in a game? Well, now you can have a real-life karting race. In Tokyo, you can dress up as an anime character and drive a go-kart on actual streets, experiencing the joy of "speeding" (though the pace won't be too fast). You'll pass landmarks like Tokyo Bay, Akihabara, and Ginza, and get to take plenty of cool photos. There's no other special thing like this.

Relax, don't worry about getting lost or safety, professional guides will lead the way. Just note that an international driving permit is required, and be sure to book a go-kart activity in advance.

Take a Day Trip to Mount Fuji

View of Mount Fuji With the Chureito Pagoda

Although Mount Fuji isn't located in central Tokyo, it's very easy to reach from the city, taking about 2.5 hours by train. Many tourists specifically include this as a stop on their Tokyo itinerary. Lake Kawaguchi is an excellent spot to admire Mount Fuji, and make sure to capture the enchanting reflection of Mount Fuji on the lake's surface. From late September to early May, you can even see its snow-capped peak.

Another great option is Arakurayama Sengen Park. Climb up 398 steps, the views continuously expand on the way up, showing distinct beauty in each season, from spring cherry blossoms to autumn foliage. At the top, take a moment on the observation deck and quietly appreciate the iconic view of Mount Fuji framed with the Chureito Pagoda. As one of Japan's most recognizable symbols, seeing Mount Fuji firsthand is surely a highlight worth including in your Tokyo itinerary, isn't it?