15 Things To Do in Tokyo 2024

Traveloka Accomodation
30 Aug 2023 - 7 min read

Things to do in Tokyo - Tokyo is Japan's capital city, where ancient traditions and modern innovations collide. This city offers various activities and attractions that cater to every traveler's taste. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a foodie, an anime lover, or simply seeking unique experiences, Tokyo has something extraordinary to offer.

This article will explore the top five must-do things and eight captivating places to visit in Tokyo, including new tourist attractions that emerged in 2023.

5 Must-Do Things in Tokyo

Even though there are fewer temples in Tokyo than in Kyoto, Senso-ji is one of the most well-known temples in Japan.

Senso-ji, the temple itself, is at the end of the shopping street, while a recently renovated five-story pagoda stands to the left (ranked as the second tallest pagoda in Japan).

Travelers first enter the complex by passing through Kaminari-mon (Thunder Gate), where a massive red lantern hangs above.

Beyond the gate, a chockablock shopping street, Nakamise-dōri, bustles with stalls selling trinkets and treats, from Edo-style handicrafts to pancake-like sweets filled with red bean paste.

Try to arrive earlier if you are keen to avoid crowds. Still, even tourists remotely interested in Japanese culture can find something to appreciate—even if it is the sweet taste of fresh snacks.

2. Chill Out in Shinjuku Gyoen

You will likely spend a lot of time in Shinjuku because there are many entertaining things to do here. This Gyoen, which means garden In Japanese, is a tranquil retreat in the heart of Shinjuku, tucked away among the city's many skyscrapers.

The center lawn areas are especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season in late March and early April. Spend your time doing a lunchtime picnic with the locals.

The gourmet food hall in the basement of the Takashimaya department store is where you can purchase various take-out foods. It is located just south of Shinjuku Station (east of the JR line tracks) and about 500 meters west of the garden's Shinjuku gate entrance.

Visit a Konbini to load up on delectable picnic fare, then spend the afternoon unwinding away from the bustle of Shinjuku.

Shinjuku Gyoen is open from Tuesday through Sunday, 9 AM to 4 PM, except for weeks when Monday is a national holiday. Adult admission costs around $2; children and students pay less.

3. Eat Fresh Fish and Snacks at the Tsukiji Fish Market

Delight your senses at the Tsukiji Fish Market, a bustling paradise for seafood enthusiasts.

Although the inner wholesale market has been relocated to Toyosu, the outer market retains its vibrant atmosphere, offering a delightful array of fresh seafood, street food, and traditional Japanese kitchen tools.

Savor some of the freshest sushi and sashimi you'll ever taste, prepared by skilled chefs with expertise passed down through generations.

The lively energy, colorful stalls, and friendly vendors create an immersive experience that showcases the authentic pulse of Tokyo's culinary culture.

Tsukiji Fish Market is only 5-6 minutes walk from Tsukiji Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line) and 3 minutes from Tsukiji-shijo Station (Toei Oedo Line).

4. Discover History at the Tokyo National Museum

Immerse yourself in the cultural treasures of Japan at the Tokyo National Museum, located in Ueno Park.

As the country's oldest and largest museum, it boasts an impressive collection of artifacts, art pieces, and historical relics, providing valuable insights into Japan's past.

Each museum exhibit tells a story spanning centuries, from intricate samurai armor and delicate pottery to elegant kimono and ancient calligraphy.

The serene ambiance of Ueno Park complements the museum experience, offering a perfect blend of education and relaxation.

Tokyo National Museum is only 10 minutes walk from Ueno or Uguisudani Station (JR Line) and 15 minutes from Ueno Station (Ginza or Hibiya Tokyo Metro Line), Nezu Station (Chiyoda Tokyo Metro Line), and Keisei Ueno Station (Keisei Line).

5. Embrace Pop Culture in Akihabara

Experience Tokyo's modern subculture hub in Akihabara, where the worlds of anime, manga, and video games collide.

This electric district is a haven for enthusiasts and collectors, with multistory buildings housing shops that offer the latest electronic gadgets, anime merchandise, and limited-edition figurines.

Dive into the virtual reality world in the arcades or savor-themed cafes where your favorite characters come to life.

Akihabara's vibrant energy and colorful streets create an unforgettable atmosphere that showcases Tokyo's innovative pop culture.

You can visit the area by walking from Akihabara Station. This station is served by several lines, such as JR Yamatone Line, JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, JR Sobu Line, the Tsukuba Express, and the Hibiya Subway Line.

You can also stop at Suehirocho Station (Ginza Subway Line), located around the northern end of Akibahara district.

8 Captivating Places to Visit in Tokyo

1. Ghibli Museum

Ghibli Museum is located around Kichijoji Avenue and Inokashira Park in Mitaka. If you are a fan of Studio Ghibli's movies or just an anime lover, you will absolutely adore this place. A very large Totoro will welcome you at the museum entrance.

The museum offers many extraordinary areas, all inspired by Studio Ghibli's movies. For example, you can enjoy the marvel of a five-meter-tall Robot soldier from Castle in the Sky at the museum's rooftop or even ride the cute-looking Cat Bus from "My Neighbor Totoro."

If you are planning to visit Ghibli Museum, be prepared that all admission is by reservation only, which means no reservation or ticket purchase can be made at the museum.

You can visit the place by walking for 15 minutes from the south exit of JR Mitaka Station or taking a community bus which appears every 10-20 minutes from the same station.

If you plan to visit Ghibli Museum soon, you can book the nearest accommodation, like Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel or Richmond Hotel Tokyo Musashino in Traveloka.

2. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter

Are you a fan of Harry Potter? There is a recently opened place in Tokyo that you shouldn't miss, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter.

Officially opened on 16th June 2023, the place provides the ultimate opportunity to venture behind-the-scenes of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beast Films and experience the remarkable world of film production.

Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter is the world's largest indoor Harry Potter attraction. It also features exclusive sets that you can't find anywhere.

The place is only a two-minute walk from Toshimaen Station (Seibu Toshima Line or Oedo Subway Line), which also got a Harry Potter makeover.

If you plan to visit Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter, you can book the nearest accommodation, like Hotel Cadenza Tokyo and Hotel Hill Top in Traveloka.

3. TeamLab Borderless

Venture into a surreal world of digital art at TeamLab Borderless, an innovative museum that blurs the boundaries between art and technology.

This immersive experience takes visitors on a captivating journey through interactive installations, mesmerizing light displays, and ever-changing digital landscapes.

Unlike conventional museums, TeamLab Borderless encourages active participation, enabling visitors to become part of the art. Be prepared to lose yourself in a world of dynamic colors, sounds, and textures that create an unforgettable experience.

You can access the museum by taking the Yurikamome line to Aomi Station or the Rinkai line to Tokyo Teleport Station. From either station, the museum is just 3-5 minutes on foot.

Plan to visit TeamLab Borderless soon? You can book the nearest accommodation, like Tokyo Bay Ariake Washington Hotel and Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba in Traveloka.

4. Odaiba

Step into the future with a visit to Odaiba, a futuristic entertainment district situated on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay.

Odaiba offers diverse activities and attractions, from the iconic life-sized Gundam statue to the giant Ferris wheel that provides breathtaking views of the bay area. Unwind on the sandy beaches, indulge in shopping at modern malls, and immerse yourself in the virtual reality centers.

Odaiba's unique blend of modern architecture, entertainment, and relaxation ensures an exciting outing for visitors of all ages.

To go to Odaiba, you can get off at Odaiba-Kaihinkoen Station (Yurikamome Line) or Tokyo Teleport Station (Rinkai Line).

Plan to stay around Odaiba? You can book the nearest accommodation, like Sotetsu Grand Fresa Tokyo - Bay Ariake and Hotel Trusty Tokyo Bayside in Traveloka.

5. Ginza

To taste Tokyo's sophistication and elegance, venture into Ginza, the city's premier shopping district. Renowned for its luxury boutiques, designer labels, and upscale department stores,

Ginza caters to discerning shoppers seeking the latest fashion trends and high-quality merchandise. Beyond shopping, Ginza offers a rich cultural experience with its thriving art scene, theaters, and chic cafes where you can indulge in delectable treats.

Whether seeking high-end fashion or a cultural escapade, Ginza presents an enticing blend of luxury and refinement.

Ginza can be reached by subway. There are three subway stations in the Ginza area: Ginza, Ginza 1-Chome, and Higashi Ginza. In addition, Yurakucho Station and Hibiya Station are also within walking distance.

Fancy a stay in Ginza? Book the nearest hotel in the area, like KOKO HOTEL Ginza 1chome and Ginza Grand Hotel in Traveloka.

6. Sumida Aquarium

Immerse yourself in an underwater wonderland at Sumida Aquarium, situated within the Tokyo Skytree Town. This captivating attraction showcases various aquatic creatures, including ethereal jellyfish, playful penguins, and mesmerizing sea creatures.

The aquarium's innovative exhibits, such as the "Jellyfish Ramble" and "Penguin Odyssey," offer visitors an enchanting glimpse into the ocean's mysteries.

Whether you're visiting with family or friends, the Sumida Aquarium promises an educational and awe-inspiring experience for all.

The entrance to the Sumida Aquarium is on the 5th floor of Tokyo Skytree Town. You can reach the area from Tokyo Skytree Station (Tobu Isesaki Line), Oshiage Station (Asakusa Subway Line, Hanzomon Subway Line, and Keisei Oshiage Line).

Plan to stay around Tokyo Skytree? You can book the nearest hotel, like Richmond Hotel Premier Tokyo Schole and Keisei Richmond Hotel Tokyo Oshiage in Traveloka.

7. Rikugien Garden

Discover the tranquility of traditional Japanese landscaping at Rikugien Garden, an exquisite oasis tucked away in the heart of Tokyo.

Renowned for its stunning seasonal beauty, the garden features a meticulously designed landscape with walking paths that meander around serene ponds and beneath picturesque bridges. During autumn, the maple trees transform the garden into a captivating tapestry of crimson and gold, creating a magical setting for visitors to explore.

Embrace the serenity of Rikugien Garden, where time seems to stand still, offering a much-needed respite from the bustling city.

Rikugien Garden is only a 5-10 minute walk from Komagome Station (JR Yamanote Line or Namboku Subway Line). There is a more convenient option from Someimon Gate, but it is not open to the public except during a few weeks in fall (late November to early December) and spring (late March to early April).

If you plan to stay around Rikugien Garden, you can book the nearest accommodation, like JR-East Hotel Mets Komagome and Smile Hotel Sugamo in Traveloka.

8. Sky Circus Sunshine 60 Observatory

Sky Circus Sunshine 60 Observatory is a newly-renovated tower In Ikebukuro that offers a whole new panoramic experience that stimulates your senses through sight, touch, emotion, and surprise.

The place provides a whole new experience to enjoy, such as Cafe Quu Quu Quu, Kaleido Scape, Sky Bridge, Sky Party, and Tenku 251. Another extraordinary thing you can enjoy is the 360-degree panoramic view from the observation deck, which stands 251 meters above the ground.

To visit the Sky Circus Sunshine 60 Observatory, you can walk for about 3-4 minutes from Higashi-Ikebukuro Station (Tokyo Metro Yurakocho Line) and Higashi-Ikebukuro Yonchome Station (Toden Arakawa Line). You can also get off at Ikebukuro Station (JR Line, Tokyo Metro Line, Seibu Line, and Tobu Line), then walk for around 8 minutes.

Plan to stay around Sky Circus Sunshine 60 Observatory? You can book the nearest accommodation, like Sunshine City Prince Hotel and Hotel Grand City In Traveloka.

Not only Articles about Things to do in Japan Traveloka provides, but we also have a lot of best-recommended articles for you guys to read! Here is the list of the best Articles recommendation special for you:

Anyway, Tokyo would give you an unforgettable vacation. You can use the Traveloka app to make your journey more convenient. This application allows you to make the booking process quickly and safely. Have a good vacation!

In This Article

• 5 Must-Do Things in Tokyo
• 1. Visit Senso-ji, Tokyo’s Most Popular Temple
• 2. Chill Out in Shinjuku Gyoen
• 3. Eat Fresh Fish and Snacks at the Tsukiji Fish Market
• 4. Discover History at the Tokyo National Museum
• 5. Embrace Pop Culture in Akihabara
• 8 Captivating Places to Visit in Tokyo
• 1. Ghibli Museum
• 2. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter
• 3. TeamLab Borderless
• 4. Odaiba
• 5. Ginza
• 6. Sumida Aquarium
• 7. Rikugien Garden
• 8. Sky Circus Sunshine 60 Observatory
Hotels
Flights
Things to Do
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