Best Things to Do in Tokyo (2025): Insider’s Guide from a 25-Year Resident

Tokyo Skytree

This is the tallest tower in Japan, and it offers unparalleled views of central Tokyo and beyond. On clear days, you can spot Mount Fuji in the distance, making the admission fee worthwhile.

The observation deck boasts perspectives you can't get elsewhere in the city.

My annual ritual is watching the first snow from Tokyo Skytree's observation deck, and I recommend it to anyone who visits in winter.

Visit during sunset to watch Tokyo shift from daylight business hub to neon-lit wonderland.

The Tokyo Skytree also houses excellent restaurants and shops, though they're pricier than neighborhood alternatives.

Imperial Palace

The Emperor's residence sits in the heart of Tokyo, surrounded by beautiful gardens and historical sites.

The East Gardens open to the public year-round, offering peaceful walks just minutes from Tokyo Station. Cherry blossoms here bloom magnificently in spring, creating one of the city's most photogenic spots.

You can join the free guided tours to learn about Japanese history and the palace's role in modern Japan. The Imperial Palace represents continuity in this rapidly changing metropolis and ranks among the most culturally significant attractions in Tokyo for understanding Japanese heritage.

Meiji Shrine

Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, this shrine offers tranquility within bustling Shibuya. The path through towering trees feels like entering another world, despite being just a short walk from Harajuku Station. It's a beautiful and peaceful area. I run through the shrine grounds every Tuesday at 6 am - the priests always nod hello now.

Traditional Shinto weddings happen regularly here, and give glimpses into Japanese culture most tourists never see. The shrine grounds extend into Yoyogi Park, perfect for combining cultural exploration with outdoor relaxation.

Yoyogi Park

Tokyo's largest park looks magical during cherry blossom season, when locals gather for hanami parties under blooming trees. Street performers, musicians, and artists work together to create a festival atmosphere year-round, especially on weekends.

Like I mentioned before, the park connects to Meiji Jingu Shrine and is walking distance from trendy shops in Harajuku. It's where Tokyo residents come to breathe, exercise, and socialize away from the city's intensity. Every sakura blossom season, I claim the same spot near a fountain for hanami with my friends. I'd recommend you come with your loved ones, too; it's a beautiful experience.

Tokyo Tower

Inspired by the Eiffel Tower but painted bright orange and white, Tokyo Tower is an iconic symbol despite being shorter than Tokyo Skytree. The views here feel more intimate, showing the city's neighborhoods rather than treating them as abstract patterns.

Night illumination makes Tokyo Tower particularly striking, visible from many parts of Tokyo's center.

The surrounding area offers excellent restaurants and the nearby Zojoji Temple provides historical context.

Senso-ji Temple

Tokyo's oldest temple sits in Asakusa, approached through Nakamise Shopping Street lined with traditional snacks and souvenirs.

The temple grounds buzz with activity as both tourists and locals come to pray and purchase good luck charms. You can visit too, and get some good fortune for your visit in Japan.

Asakusa Station connects easily to other parts of Tokyo, making Senso-ji accessible for day trips.

The neighborhood retains old Tokyo charm that's increasingly rare in this modernizing city, and makes it a must-see if you like subtle aesthetic views.

Tsukiji Outer Market

Although the famous fish market moved to Toyosu, the Tsukiji Outer Market continues serving incredible street food and fresh ingredients. Local vendors have traded and made food here for generations, resulting in unique culinary experiences.

Early morning visits offer the best selection and smaller crowds. I have breakfast at the same tamagoyaki stall as often as I can. Even after all these years, the recipe hasn't changed!

The Tsukiji Fish Market legacy lives on through these dedicated food artisans who moved their businesses here decades ago.

Mori Art Museum

Located in Roppongi Hills, this museum features contemporary art exhibitions that change regularly.

The combination of international and Japanese artists gives you perspectives on modern culture you won't find elsewhere. That's not all. The museum's location offers stunning city views, especially from the observation deck.

teamLab Planets

This digital art museum has experiences that draw you in, where visitors become part of the artwork.

If you're slightly into art and creativity, I highly recommend spending a few hours here.

Water rooms, mirror installations, and interactive projections blur the lines between observer and participant.

Rikugien Garden

This traditional Japanese garden shows off seasonal beauty throughout the year, from cherry blossoms to autumn maple leaves. Every October, I walk through the garden to watch the leaves change.

The carefully designed landscapes offer perfect examples of Japanese aesthetic principles. My friends love the garden almost as much as I do, and I'm pretty sure you will too!

Evening illuminations during peak seasons create romantic atmospheres for couples and photography enthusiasts. The garden is less crowded than other famous gardens while maintaining exceptional beauty.

Hamarikyu Gardens

These gardens sit beside Tokyo Bay, with unique seawater ponds that change with the tides. The traditional teahouse in the center serves matcha while guests enjoy views of modern skyscrapers beyond. You can easily spend a few hours here, and not even notice the time go by. Interesting fact: Many years ago, the gardens served as duck hunting grounds for the Tokugawa family.

Ameya-Yokocho Market

One of my favorites, this bustling market near Ueno Station sells everything from vintage clothing to international foods. The narrow alleys pulse with energy as vendors call out prices and shoppers haggle good-naturedly. Local residents shop here for daily necessities while tourists hunt for unique souvenirs. The market survived World War II bombing and proudly continues serving the community.

Unassuming places like this market have a lot of history, so I recommend you see them with a local who knows all the stories!

Top Ramen Shops That Locals Queue For

Although fancy restaurants are valued, real ramen culture happens in small shops where locals wait patiently for steaming bowls of perfectly balanced broth.

Every shop specializes in specific styles, from rich tonkotsu to light shio varieties.

Ramen Kamo, Negi, and Kikanbo are just a few of the amazing ramen shops you should definitely visit.

The best ramen shops often have no English signage and limited seating, but the quality speaks for itself. During lunch hours, follow the queues of office workers to find genuine local favorites.

You may have to order awkwardly or figure out what to order from the machine, but it will be worth the effort!

Konbini Must-Tries and Unique Snacks

I've seen tourists be surprised by how Japanese convenience stores offer incredible variety and quality.

Hot foods, seasonal specials, and regional delicacies rotate regularly, creating constant discovery opportunities. And if there's one thing you have to get, it's onigiri!

These triangular rice balls are delicious and a must-have on any foodie (and even non-foodie!) list.

In addition, vending machines complement konbini offerings with hot and cold drinks, including seasonal flavors unavailable elsewhere. If you want to eat and drink like locals, this is how you do it.

These shops form the backbone of daily Tokyo life for residents and visitors alike.

High-End Eateries Beloved by Locals

Tokyo's upscale dining scene goes far beyond Michelin-starred establishments. Neighborhood restaurants earn devoted local followings through consistent excellence. These places balance sophistication with approachability. With that said, if you can get a table at one of Tokyo's Michelin-star restaurants, don't hesitate. I highly recommend Nakiryu in Otsuka or Ginza Hachigo. You'll never forget their meals!

Reservation systems vary, but persistence often pays off for special occasion dining. Local recommendations through hotel concierges or neighborhood contacts work better than online reviews, so ask around for the best restaurants. I'm certain you'll find some of the best eateries this way.

Shabu Shabu Restaurants for Japanese Hot Pot

This interactive dining style brings people together over bubbling broths and premium ingredients.

Quality shabu shabu restaurants provide excellent beef, fresh vegetables, and multiple dipping sauces.

All-you-can-eat options exist, but higher-end establishments focus on ingredient quality rather than quantity.

The social aspect makes shabu shabu perfect for group dining experiences. A restaurant I'll always recommend is Mo-Mo-Paradise. They've got the most amazing Shabu Shabu hotpot with high-quality meat and "all you can eat" deals.

Best Okonomiyaki Spots

This savory pancake dish varies by region, but Tokyo versions offer unique local ingredients and preparation styles. Small shops with hot griddles create intimate dining experiences where cooking is part of the entertainment. Many okonomiyaki restaurants let customers cook their own, providing ingredients and guidance. Shiraiwa Asakusa, a place I'll enthusiastically recommend to anyone willing to listen, serves delicious food and has multi-language menus.

Top Street Food Stalls Locals Love

Festival seasons bring incredible street food variety to neighborhoods throughout Tokyo, from yakitori to taiyaki fish-shaped pastries. These temporary stalls often serve specialties unavailable in permanent restaurants. Year-round street food concentrates around train stations and shopping districts, offering quick meals for busy Tokyo residents. Quality remains high despite casual presentation and reasonable prices.

Izakayas and Why They Matter

These casual drinking establishments serve as community gathering places where neighbors, coworkers, and friends share food and conversation. Depending on the location and clientele, the atmosphere ranges from boisterous to intimate.

Many have no English menus, but pointing, smiling, and adventurous eating usually lead to memorable evenings.

Shokudo Todaka has been a favorite haunt of mine and friends for years, and if you get the chance to stop by, don't hesitate! You'll leave stuffed full of amazing food and wonderful memories.

Hidden Local Restaurants in Meguro and Yanaka

These residential neighborhoods house restaurants that serve local communities rather than seeking tourist attention. Quality remains exceptional while prices stay reasonable compared to central Tokyo alternatives.

Exploring side streets in these areas will often lead to unexpected culinary discoveries.

Local residents are usually happy to provide recommendations when approached politely.

Stop by Robata No Sato, Hakata Hotaru Nakameguro, or Sushi Noike for unforgettable food! The riverside café where I wrote my first article about Tokyo is still my go-to workspace during cherry blossom season. I'm sure you'll find a favorite here as well.

Depachika for Gourmet Finds

Department store basement food halls offer incredible variety and quality, from fresh sushi to elaborate desserts. These spaces function as both grocery stores and prepared food destinations. The presentation and packaging in depachika reach artistic levels, making them perfect for gifts or special occasion meals. Prices reflect the premium quality and beautiful presentation. I love Shibuya Tokyu Foodshow and always spend longer than necessary at the sweets zone on the first floor when I go there.

Tokyo National Museum

The National Museum houses treasures from across Asia, with particular strength in Japanese historical items and archaeological discoveries that illuminate the country's cultural evolution.

If you like seeing historical pieces, you should definitely stop here for a few hours.

Special exhibitions complement the permanent collection, often featuring items rarely displayed publicly. The museum grounds in Ueno Park provide peaceful settings for reflection after viewing cultural treasures, making this one of the most educational activities in Tokyo.

Nezu Museum

This private museum specializes in pre-modern Japanese and East Asian art, housed in a building surrounded by traditional gardens. The combination of indoor galleries and outdoor landscapes creates comprehensive aesthetic experiences.

Also, tea ceremony demonstrations happen regularly, so you'll see how people used the items on display many, many years ago.

Ghibli Museum

Dedicated to Studio Ghibli's animated films, this museum requires advance ticket purchases and attracts devoted fans worldwide.

The whimsical architecture and exclusive short films create magical experiences for visitors of all ages, even 28-year-old locals who visit the museum way too often. Located in suburban Mitaka, the museum can give you respite from central Tokyo's intensity while celebrating Japan's most beloved animation studio. The surrounding Inokashira Park is a big bonus too.

Kabuki Theater

Traditional Japanese theater can be enjoyed at venues throughout Tokyo, with the Kabuki-za in Ginza being the most famous. To be honest, my first kabuki experience was completely confusing, but now I buy my tickets ahead of time on a regular basis.

English-language audio guides help international audiences follow complex plots and appreciate performance techniques. Single-act tickets make kabuki accessible without committing to full-day performances. The elaborate costumes, makeup, and stagecraft provide spectacular visual experiences even when language barriers exist.

Sumo Wrestling Tournaments

Professional sumo tournaments happen at Tokyo Dome and Ryogoku Kokugikan several times annually, offering glimpses into Japan's national sport. If you're planning on attending tournaments, advance booking ensures better seats. However, if you're lucky, same-day tickets sometimes become available.

Sumo wrestlers train at stables throughout Tokyo, and some allow visitors to watch morning practice sessions. I know that sumo wrestlers look scary, but they're actually nice people when you get to know them. I'd recommend you try to hang out with these athletes if you can get the chance.

Don Quijote for Unique Japanese Shopping

You really have to experience the wonderful chaos that is Don Quijote - locals call it "Donki."

Picture wandering through aisles packed floor-to-ceiling with an impossible mix of items: Hello Kitty merchandise beside samurai replicas, luxury cosmetics next to instant ramen, costumes sharing space with electronics.

The layout defies all logic, but that's precisely what makes it so entertaining. After shopping at Donki for so many years, I still find something completely unexpected on every visit. It's like an adult treasure hunt where you never know what you'll stumble upon.

The fun is in the browsing itself, letting serendipity guide you through the maze-like floors.

And honestly, where else can you find unique souvenirs for everyone back home while picking up daily essentials at 2 AM? The 24-hour locations have saved me countless times when I needed last-minute gifts or forgot something important.

Daiso and Seria for Incredible Finds

These 100-yen ($0.66 USD) shops are all about remarkable value and variety, from household goods to office supplies and seasonal decorations. The quality often exceeds expectations, given the low prices.

Visiting these stores will give you some insight into Japanese design sensibilities and daily life priorities.

Many items are uniquely Japanese, making them perfect, affordable souvenirs for friends and family.

Over the years, I've spent many hours and a lot of money here, buying amazing items I don't think I would have found elsewhere.

Tokyu Hands and Loft for Creative Goods

Recently rebranded to just Hands, Tokyu Hands is well-known in Japan, and locals still call it Tokyu Hands despite the name change. These two stores have become essential stops for me.

Tokyu Hands and Loft are multi-story wonderlands that perfectly show off Japanese ingenuity.

Think eight floors of beautifully designed stationery, innovative home solutions, and tools you never realized you needed.

What I love most about these places is how they showcase Japanese attention to detail in everyday objects. You'll find everything from precision craft supplies to clever organizational systems that actually work. Also, the staff is wonderfully patient and helpful, often demonstrating products even when language barriers exist. They genuinely want you to know why each item is special.

I always plan extra time when visiting because the selection is genuinely inspiring: beautiful notebooks that make you want to write, kitchen gadgets that solve problems you didn't know you had, and artistic supplies that spark creativity.

It's where locals go when they want something that will last and perform beautifully for years to come.

Uniqlo and Muji for Great Deals

These Japanese retailers offer high-quality, minimalist clothing and home goods at reasonable prices.

Their success internationally started in Tokyo, where flagship stores showcase the complete product range. The emphasis on function, quality, and simple design reflects Japanese aesthetic values.

Both brands provide practical souvenirs that continue providing value long after Tokyo visits end.

Yodobashi Camera for Electronics

I have to admit, even after many years, I still get excited walking into Yodobashi Camera.

These aren't just electronics stores—they're tech wonderlands that showcase everything Japan does brilliantly with consumer electronics.

What really impresses me is how knowledgeable the staff are. They'll patiently explain technical specifications and help you compare models, even demonstrating features so you can make informed decisions.

The tax-free shopping for international visitors is fantastic, but honestly, I think the real value is the experience itself. Where else can you spend hours testing professional cameras, trying out the newest headphones, and playing with gadgets that won't hit international markets for months?

It's like getting a preview of the future, and the competitive pricing means you're often getting better deals than you'd find anywhere else.

High-End Shopping in Ginza, Aoyama, and Omotesando

These upscale districts house luxury boutiques, department stores, and flagship retail experiences.

Window shopping alone provides entertainment, while the architecture and design create sophisticated urban environments.

The areas offer insights into Tokyo's wealth and consumer sophistication. Stop by stores like Mitsukoshi Ginza and LOVELESS AOYAMA, as well as well-known options such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior.

Even without purchasing, experiencing these districts helps understand Tokyo's position in global fashion and luxury markets.

Akihabara for Anime, Manga, and Electronics

Known worldwide as Tokyo's electronics and otaku culture center, Akihabara offers everything from vintage video games to the latest manga releases. Multi-story shops specialize in specific niches within these broad categories.

The area attracts international visitors seeking Japanese pop culture items unavailable elsewhere.

Of course, even locals come here often, including yours truly. My friends and I spend hours here at a time, so I recommend you clear your schedule before stopping by. Even non-fans often enjoy the colorful displays and enthusiastic customer service typical of these specialized retailers.

Nippori Fabric Town

I stumbled upon Nippori Fabric Town completely by accident years ago, and it's become one of my favorite discoveries to share with visitors who appreciate craftsmanship.

This entire district is dedicated to fabrics and sewing supplies, with shop after shop displaying the most beautiful textiles you can imagine - from traditional Japanese patterns to cutting-edge materials used by Tokyo's fashion designers. The variety is absolutely incredible - you'll find everything from delicate kimono fabrics to industrial-strength materials, often at prices that would surprise you given the quality.

Kappabashi for Kitchenware

Here you'll find everything from razor-sharp knives that cost more than my monthly train pass to those incredibly realistic plastic food displays that grace restaurant windows throughout Japan.

What I love about wandering through these shops is watching professional chefs examine knives with the same reverence that art collectors show toward paintings.

The craftsmanship is extraordinary—these aren't just tools; they're instruments that reflect generations of culinary tradition. Even if you're not a serious cook, you can't help but appreciate the precision and quality that go into each piece.

Nakameguro: Cherry Blossom Views and Riverside Cafés

The Meguro River is Tokyo's most romantic spot during cherry blossom season, when pink petals create tunnels over the water. Year-round, the riverside walk offers peaceful escapes with trendy cafés and boutiques.

The neighborhood attracts young professionals and creative types, creating a sophisticated but relaxed atmosphere. Independent shops and restaurants are alternatives to chain stores found in busier districts, and they come highly recommended.

Koenji: Vintage Shopping and Indie Music Venues

Koenji holds a special place in my heart as Tokyo's creative soul. It's where the city's artistic energy feels most genuine and unfiltered. Walking these streets, you'll encounter vintage shops run by passionate collectors who can tell you the story behind every piece, and intimate live music venues where you might find your new favorite band performing to an audience of twenty people.

What draws me back to Koenji repeatedly is how it attracts Tokyo's creative community - musicians, artists, and young professionals who value authenticity over trends. The vintage clothing stores aren't just selling old clothes; they're curating pieces with real character and history.

Kichijoji: Vibrant Café Culture and Inokashira Park

Consistently ranked among Tokyo residents' favorite neighborhoods, Kichijoji combines urban conveniences with natural beauty.

Inokashira Park provides green space for relaxation, while the surrounding streets offer excellent shopping and dining. It is at this park that I learned to appreciate truly Japanese aesthetics.

I've spent entire afternoons here over the years. The neighborhood's popularity with locals rather than tourists creates warm and memorable Tokyo experiences. The balance of nature, culture, and urban amenities explains why many Tokyo residents choose to live here.

Yanaka: Old-Town Charm and Traditional Craft Stores

This historic neighborhood survived World War II bombing, preserving traditional Tokyo architecture and community atmosphere. Small shops sell handmade crafts while temples and shrines maintain spiritual traditions.

Walking these streets feels like time travel to earlier eras of Tokyo's past. The area offers respite from modern Tokyo's intensity while showcasing cultural continuity and traditional craftsmanship. The pottery shop on the main street is where I bought my first piece of Japanese ceramics. I still use those bowls daily, and if you buy anything here, it'll last you a lifetime too.

Sangenjaya: Hipster Cafés and Local Nightlife

Known locally as "Sancha," this residential area has developed a reputation for innovative cafés, craft bars, and independent restaurants. The neighborhood attracts creative professionals seeking alternatives to central Tokyo's mainstream offerings.

I find that the intimate scale encourages walking and discovery, with new businesses opening regularly.

Local nightlife focuses on quality over quantity, creating memorable experiences for those willing to explore. There's a craft bar called Craft Beer Shop Sangenjaya Sanity where I became friends with other long-term foreign residents. It's a great spot for connecting with like-minded people.

Omotesando Ura: Boutique Shopping and Trendy Cafés

The back streets behind famous Omotesando Avenue hide sophisticated shopping and dining experiences away from tourist crowds. These quiet streets feature designer boutiques and innovative restaurants.

The area showcases Tokyo's fashion and design leadership while maintaining a human scale and walkable streets.Window shopping and café hopping are perfect afternoon activities for style-conscious visitors.

Ueno: Parks, Museums, and Street Food

Ueno Park concentrates multiple museums, a zoo, and seasonal attractions in one walkable area. The Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, the Samurai Museum, science museums, and Ueno Zoo create full-day cultural experiences that explore both traditional and contemporary culture.

I visit the ceramic collection every start of the new year. It's become my personal tradition, and I highly recommend you visit. It's a lot more interesting than it sounds! Street food vendors and casual restaurants serve museum visitors and park guests.

The area balances high culture with popular entertainment, making it accessible to diverse interests and age groups while offering some of the most enriching things to do in Tokyo.

Shinjuku: Vibrant Nightlife and Shopping

Tokyo's busiest district pulses with energy 24 hours a day, from massive department stores to tiny bars and restaurants. Shinjuku Station handles millions of passengers daily, making it Tokyo's transportation hub. I finally found the fastest route to platform 15—it only took me 23 years to figure out!

The area offers everything from high-end shopping to budget entertainment, with vertical development creating multiple layers of urban experiences. Both Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden provides green relief from the urban intensity.

Shibuya: Fashion Hub and City Energy

Beyond the famous crossing, Shibuya offers cutting-edge fashion, innovative restaurants, and energetic nightlife. The area attracts young people from across Tokyo, creating dynamic street scenes and trend-setting businesses.

Shibuya Sky provides aerial views of the district's organized chaos, while ground-level exploration rewards visitors with constant surprises. The neighborhood embodies Tokyo's youth culture and commercial energy.

Ikebukuro: Otaku Culture and Entertainment

This major transportation hub has become a center for anime, manga, and gaming culture. Massive electronics stores and themed cafés cater to otaku interests while mainstream shopping and dining serve diverse populations.

The area offers alternatives to Akihabara for pop culture shopping, often with better prices and less crowded conditions.