best things to do in tokyo

Tokyo, the vibrant capital of Japan, is a city that offers a wide range of exciting experiences for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in Tokyo:

Must-visit attractions:

1. Shibuya Crossing: This famous intersection is known for its busiest and most colorful street crossing in the world.
2. Tokyo Skytree: At 634 meters tall, Tokyo Skytree offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation decks.
3. Meiji Shrine: Dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken, this shrine is a serene oasis in the midst of the bustling city.
4. Tsukiji Fish Market: While the inner market has moved to a new location, the outer market still offers a fascinating glimpse into Tokyo’s seafood culture.
5. Asakusa: This historic district is home to the famous Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, and traditional Japanese architecture.

Food and drink:

1. Try sushi at the Tsukiji Fish Market: Fresh sushi at the market or at one of the many restaurants nearby.
2. Sample street food at Shinjuku’s Omoide Yokocho: This small alleyway is lined with tiny restaurants serving delicious yakitori, tempura, and other Japanese street food.
3. Visit the Tsukiji Outer Market’s Sushi Dai: This famous sushi restaurant is known for its high-quality sushi and lively atmosphere.
4. Explore the food halls at Tokyo Station: From high-end restaurants to casual eateries, Tokyo Station’s food halls offer a wide range of culinary options.
5. Visit the Ichiran Ramen: This famous ramen chain has a unique, rich tonkotsu broth and a quirky dining experience.

Shopping:

1. Shibuya 109: This iconic department store is a must-visit for fashionistas and fans of Japanese pop culture.
2. Ginza: This upscale shopping district is known for its high-end boutiques, luxury brands, and traditional Japanese shops.
3. Harajuku: This trendy district is famous for its unique fashion styles, shopping streets, and snack shops.
4. Akihabara: Tokyo’s electronics and anime hub, Akihabara is a must-visit for fans of Japanese pop culture.
5. Shinjuku’s Omoide Yokocho: This small alleyway is lined with tiny shops selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts.

Arts and culture:

1. Visit the Tokyo National Museum: This museum features a vast collection of Japanese art and artifacts, including ancient pottery, samurai armor, and ukiyo-e woodblock prints.
2. Explore the Ghibli Museum: Dedicated to the works of Studio Ghibli, this museum features exhibits on the studio’s films, as well as a beautiful garden and a theater showing Ghibli films.
3. Attend a traditional tea ceremony: Experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony at a temple or a tea house.
4. Visit the Neon Museum: This museum showcases Tokyo’s iconic neon signs, which are a symbol of the city’s vibrant nightlife.
5. Take a stroll through the Imperial Palace East Garden: This beautiful garden is a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city.

Other experiences:

1. Visit the Tokyo Tower: This iconic tower offers stunning views of the city from its observation decks.
2. Take a sumo tournament tour: Experience the excitement of a live sumo tournament at the Ryogoku Kokugikan.
3. Visit the Tokyo Zoo: Home to over 400 species of animals, the Tokyo Zoo is a great place to spend a day with family.
4. Explore the trendy neighborhoods: From Harajuku to Shimokitazawa, Tokyo’s trendy neighborhoods offer a unique glimpse into the city’s fashion, food, and culture.
5. Take a day trip to Nikko: Located about two hours away from Tokyo, Nikko is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ornate temples and shrines.

These are just a few of the many amazing things to do in Tokyo. Whether you’re interested in history, food, fashion, or pop culture, Tokyo has something for everyone.