25 Unforgettable Things to Do in Tokyo for First-Time Visitors

Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Tokyo never fails to astonish. In this city where centuries-old shrines sit beside futuristic towers, every corner tells a story. We’ve curated a guide to Tokyo’s most iconic sights, cultural treasures, and quietly inspiring neighborhoods to help you make the most of your time—whether you have a single day or a whole week to explore.

Iconic Tokyo Landmarks

These beloved landmarks define the Tokyo skyline and offer a perfect introduction to the city's vibrant personality and layered history.

Tokyo Tower

Completed in 1958 and inspired by the Eiffel Tower, Tokyo Tower is a beacon of Japan's post-war rebirth. At 333 meters tall, it stood for decades as the country's tallest structure, symbolizing progress and optimism. Take in sweeping city views from its observation decks, or test your courage on the glass-floor SkyWalk. Though newer towers have risen, Tokyo Tower retains a nostalgic charm that's hard to resist.

Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa)

Tokyo's oldest temple, Senso-ji, dates back to 645 AD and remains a powerful symbol of the city's spiritual roots. Rebuilt after wartime destruction, it welcomes millions of visitors each year with its crimson gate, massive lanterns, and vibrant shopping street. Come at dusk when the temple glows softly and the crowds begin to thin. For a deeper journey, hop in a rickshaw and roll through the neighborhood's storied alleys.

Asakusa’s charm deepens when paired with the right place to stay. Discover our Guide to Where to Stay in Tokyo, tailored to match Tokyo’s vibrant districts with every kind of traveler.

Shibuya Crossing + Hachiko Statue

No image captures Tokyo's pulse quite like the organized chaos of Shibuya Crossing. Thousands of pedestrians flow in every direction with each signal change, a choreographed dance of urban life. Just steps away, the statue of Hachiko—the famously loyal dog—offers a quiet counterpoint of devotion and memory. For the best view, ascend to Shibuya Scramble Square and watch the scene unfold below.

Tokyo’s layered transit system is part of its allure—but also a challenge. Consult our Getting Around Tokyo guide for graceful movement through the city’s pulse points, from metro to monorail.

Meiji Shrine

Tucked within a forest of over 100,000 trees, Meiji Shrine feels worlds away from the nearby energy of Harajuku. Built in honor of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken in 1920, the shrine is a peaceful sanctuary steeped in Shinto tradition. Visitors may witness traditional wedding processions or pause at the treasure house museum. It's a place for quiet reflection, where Tokyo's past and present harmonize.

Tokyo Skytree

Towering above the city at 634 meters, Tokyo Skytree is a modern marvel that offers panoramic views stretching to Mount Fuji on a clear day. Opened in 2012, it quickly became a symbol of contemporary Tokyo and a hub for shopping, dining, and family-friendly attractions. Its twin observation decks provide breathtaking perspectives of the city by day or night. Skytree Town below buzzes with activity, making it a destination in itself.

Imperial Palace + East Gardens

Set in the heart of Tokyo, the Imperial Palace is the home of Japan's Emperor and a symbol of enduring tradition. While the inner grounds are closed to the public, the East Gardens invite visitors to stroll through manicured landscapes once part of Edo Castle. Seasonal blooms and ancient stone ruins offer a gentle contrast to the city around it. It’s a rare pocket of stillness amid the urban rhythm.

Should your travels coincide with cherry blossom season, Ueno Park becomes a dreamscape. Our Cherry Blossom Festival Guide reveals the most evocative viewing spots, local customs, and the fleeting beauty of sakura.Cultural & Local Experiences

Step away from the headline sights, and Tokyo reveals its quieter rituals — a graceful rhythm of tradition and artistry, often found in the most unexpected places.

Watching Sumo in Ryogoku

In Ryogoku, sumo wrestlers train in neighborhood stables before dawn, their movements echoing centuries of tradition. On tournament days, the entire district hums with anticipation — but even off-season, a visit to the Sumo Museum offers a window into this distinctly Japanese form of power and ceremony. It's a rare and powerful look at Japan's living heritage.

teamLab Planets or Borderless

From ancient ritual to avant-garde expression, Tokyo never stops reinventing its own story. At teamLab Planets or teamLab Borderless, art isn’t something you view — it’s something you wander through, touch, and even wade into. These digital dreamscapes shift with every step and ripple with the presence of those around you. It’s immersive, emotive, and unlike anything else in the world.

Shopping in Harajuku / Takeshita Street

Amid the electric energy of Harajuku’s Takeshita Street, Tokyo’s youth express themselves in every hue of creativity. Here, pop culture meets street food, fashion meets rebellion — and even the crepes come with flair. Step just a few blocks away and the noise fades, replaced by quiet cafes and secondhand shops that reveal the district’s softer edges.

Kabuki-za Theatre (Ginza)

In Ginza, the stately curtain rises at Kabuki-za Theatre, home to Japan’s most refined stage tradition. Whether you stay for a full performance or a single act, you’ll witness a visual feast of painted faces, embroidered robes, and stylized drama drawn from centuries of folklore. English audio guides make it accessible — though much of its beauty speaks in a language beyond words.

Visiting a Local Onsen

To end the day in perfect balance, there’s nothing more restorative than slipping into the warm waters of a local onsen. At Oedo Onsen Monogatari or Thermae-Yu, modern wellness meets ancient ritual in a space designed for rest. Let the steam rise, the city fade, and time slow — this too is Tokyo at its most authentic.

TeamLab Planets or Borderless

These immersive museums reimagine what art can be, turning light, space, and movement into interactive experiences that engage the senses. Created by Tokyo-based collective TeamLab, each installation draws you in—inviting you to walk through water, float among digital flowers, or dissolve into shifting mirrorscapes. No two visits are the same. Advance reservations are essential as these spaces are beloved by locals and travelers alike.

Watching Sumo in Ryogoku

Sumo is more than sport—it's an ancient ritual. In Ryogoku, you can witness the thunderous clashes of titans during the official tournaments in January, May, and September. Outside tournament season, visit a sumo stable or the museum to explore the discipline's deep roots. It's a rare chance to glimpse Japan's living heritage up close.

Shopping in Harajuku / Takeshita Street

Bright, playful, and always on the edge of what's next, Harajuku is Tokyo’s style laboratory. Takeshita Street bursts with colorful shops, quirky treats like rainbow cotton candy, and the creative spirit of Tokyo’s youth. Wander just beyond the crowds to find serene cafes and vintage boutiques. It’s a world where tradition and rebellion play side by side.

Kabuki-za Theater (Ginza)

Kabuki is drama at its most elegant and stylized, and there's no better place to experience it than Ginza's Kabuki-za. Even a single-act ticket reveals dazzling costumes, dramatic gestures, and centuries of performance tradition. English audio guides help decode the symbolism woven through every scene. It’s an unforgettable window into Japan's theatrical soul.

Tsukiji Outer Market

Though the famed inner fish auction has moved, Tsukiji's outer market continues to hum with culinary life. Here, you can graze your way through grilled scallops, tamagoyaki omelets, tuna sashimi, and local sweets. It's not just a place to eat—it’s a living snapshot of Tokyo's food culture. Come early, bring your appetite, and follow your nose.

Modern Tokyo Highlights

This is Tokyo with its gaze on the future—bold, bright, and a little bit surreal.

Akihabara (Electric Town)

Once a hub for post-war electronics, Akihabara has evolved into the beating heart of otaku culture. Towering stores brim with anime figurines, rare manga, retro games, and everything in between. Curious travelers can step into maid cafes or explore multi-floor arcades. It’s vibrant, eccentric, and unmistakably Tokyo.

Odaiba / DiverCity

A futuristic playground on Tokyo Bay, Odaiba combines waterfront views with entertainment and discovery. Pose beside the towering life-size Gundam statue, explore hands-on science at Miraikan, or simply stroll along the promenade at sunset. It's ideal for families or a rainy-day escape. Shopping, museums, and seaside parks are all within easy reach.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Amid Shinjuku's towering skyscrapers lies this vast and graceful garden. Originally an imperial retreat, it now offers public refuge with landscaped lawns, traditional teahouses, and walking paths. In spring, it's one of Tokyo's most beloved cherry blossom spots. It’s the kind of place where time slows just enough to catch your breath.

Roppongi Hills + Mori Tower

Modern, stylish, and cosmopolitan, Roppongi Hills blends art, architecture, and urban sophistication. Visit the Mori Art Museum to see cutting-edge exhibitions, then head to the observation deck for panoramic city views. As the sun sets, the city lights come alive in every direction. It's a favorite spot for date nights and cultural afternoons alike.

Pop Culture Picks

Tokyo is a wonderland for fans of all ages. Visit the Pokémon Center to stock up on plush souvenirs, browse the Ghibli Store for hand-drawn magic, or sip a themed latte at a character cafe. Whether you grew up on anime or just love a whimsical experience, there’s something here to make your heart smile.

Hidden Gems & Quieter Spots

When you're ready to step away from the crowds, Tokyo offers intimate corners where time slows and quiet beauty takes center stage.

Yanaka Ginza

This nostalgic shopping street survived the bombings of WWII and offers a rare glimpse of old Tokyo. Wooden storefronts sell everything from local snacks to hand-carved crafts, and the neighborhood's slow rhythm invites lingering. Friendly cats roam the alleys, adding to the charm. It’s a place to wander without a plan and find joy in the little things.

This nostalgic shopping street survived the bombings of WWII and offers a rare glimpse of old Tokyo. Wooden storefronts sell everything from local snacks to hand-carved crafts. Friendly cats and slow rhythms add to its charm. It’s a place to wander without a plan and find joy in the little things.

Kiyosumi Gardens

A serene example of traditional Japanese landscaping, Kiyosumi Gardens features stepping stones, koi ponds, and carefully placed boulders meant to evoke natural beauty. Created during the Meiji era, the garden has retained its quiet dignity ever since. It’s often overlooked by tourists, making it a welcome retreat for reflection. Bring a book or a camera—both are equally at home here.

Koenji + Shimokitazawa

Creative, bohemian, and slightly off the radar, these twin neighborhoods pulse with indie energy. Koenji is known for its live music venues, punk spirit, and vintage treasures, while Shimokitazawa blends secondhand fashion with cozy coffee shops and underground theater. Each alley tells its own story, revealing the texture of local life. These are the kind of places where locals linger — and visitors fall in love unexpectedly.

Best Attractions by Interest

How to Plan Your Tokyo Attractions

Not sure where to start? Our curated itineraries and travel guides help you experience the best of Tokyo based on how much time you have and when you're visiting. Mix and match iconic landmarks with cultural spots and local neighborhoods.

• 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary ➔

• Complete Tokyo Travel Guide ➔

• Where to Stay in Tokyo ➔

• Visiting Tokyo with Kids ➔

• Best Time to Visit Japan ➔

FAQ

What are the must-see places in Tokyo for first-time visitors?

Tokyo Tower, Senso-ji, Shibuya Crossing, Meiji Shrine, and Skytree are perfect for first-timers.

What’s the most famous tourist spot in Tokyo?

Shibuya Crossing is probably the most globally recognized, but Senso-ji is the oldest and most culturally significant.

Are there free attractions in Tokyo?

Yes! The Imperial Palace gardens, Meiji Shrine, and many parks like Yoyogi or Ueno are completely free.

What are fun things to do in Tokyo at night?

Night views from Tokyo Tower or Skytree, izakaya hopping in Shinjuku, and themed bars in Golden Gai.

Where should I go if I love anime?

Akihabara is the ultimate anime hub. Also check out Ikebukuro’s Animate store and themed cafes.

Is it better to visit Tokyo Tower or Skytree?

Tokyo Tower has old-school charm and shorter lines; Skytree offers higher views and more shopping/dining options.