Discover the Best Places to Visit in Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan’s sprawling capital, is a city of contrasts where ancient temples stand alongside soaring skyscrapers, and bustling streets give way to harmonious gardens.

Whether it’s exploring historic landmarks, indulging in world-class Japanese cuisine, or experiencing unique cultural districts, Tokyo promises a journey filled with discovery and excitement.

This guide highlights the city’s most captivating attractions and places to visit, perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned travellers alike.

Located in the historic district of Asakusa, Senso-ji Temple is Tokyo’s oldest and one of its most revered Buddhist temples. Established in 645 AD, the temple is dedicated to Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, and remains a spiritual and cultural hub in the city. The striking Kaminarimon Gate, adorned with a massive red lantern, welcomes visitors to this iconic landmark and sets the tone for an unforgettable experience.

The temple’s approach, Nakamise Street, is a bustling 250-metre-long walkway lined with over 90 stalls offering traditional snacks, handcrafted souvenirs, and unique keepsakes. This lively promenade captures the essence of Japanese culture and serves as a prelude to the majestic main hall and tranquil five-story pagoda within the temple grounds.

Senso-ji is particularly lively during the Sanja Matsuri festival in May, one of Tokyo’s largest Shinto festivals. The streets surrounding the temple come alive with dynamic parades, traditional music, and mikoshi (portable shrine) processions, drawing locals and tourists alike.

Pro tip: Visit early in the morning to enjoy the serene ambience and avoid peak crowds. The temple is conveniently accessible from Asakusa Station, served by the Ginza, Asakusa, and Tobu subway lines.

Tucked away in a lush forested area near Harajuku, Meiji Shrine is a sacred Shinto site completed in 1920, honouring Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.

The shrine’s setting is remarkable, surrounded by a 70-hectare forest featuring over 100,000 trees donated by people across Japan. These trees, representing various species from different regions, symbolise national unity and create a serene, natural canopy that feels far removed from Tokyo’s bustling streets. Visitors are greeted by two massive wooden torii gates, each crafted from 1,500-year-old cypress trees, which mark the transition into the sacred space.

Within the shrine grounds, traditional rituals and activities offer an immersive cultural experience. Visitors can write prayers or wishes on wooden ema plaques, hung near the offering hall, or partake in the purification ritual at the temizuya (water pavilion). The shrine is also renowned for its Shinto wedding ceremonies, where couples dressed in elaborate traditional attire add to the site’s cultural vibrancy.

The Meiji Jingu Museum, located within the grounds, houses a collection of artefacts, including personal items of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Seasonal events further enhance the appeal of the shrine, with New Year celebrations drawing millions for hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year) and the iris garden blooming beautifully in early summer.

Pro tip: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station for convenient access. Visit early or during weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience.

The Imperial Palace, located in the Marunouchi district, serves as the residence of the Emperor of Japan. While the inner palace grounds are off-limits to the public, visitors can explore the East Garden, a beautifully landscaped area featuring remnants of Edo Castle and beautiful seasonal blooms.

The Imperial Palace’s outer grounds feature moats and stone bridges, including the iconic Nijubashi Bridge, which make for excellent photo opportunities. Guided tours of the inner grounds, available by reservation, provide fascinating insights into the palace’s history, while special openings on New Year’s Day and the Emperor’s Birthday allow rare access to the imperial family.

Pro tip: Visit during spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for the garden’s vivid foliage. Find out more about the best times to visit Japan.

Shibuya is synonymous with its world-famous scramble crossing, where thousands of pedestrians flow through the intersection in a mesmerising display of organised chaos. Beyond this iconic landmark, Shibuya encapsulates Tokyo’s fascinating culture, fashion, and entertainment scenes.

The area offers countless shopping and dining options. Shibuya 109, a trendsetting fashion hub, caters to youth with its edgy styles, while Shibuya Scramble Square boasts an observation deck, Shibuya Sky, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Music lovers will enjoy Tower Records, one of the largest music stores in the world, featuring rare vinyl and live performances.

At night, Shibuya transforms into a buzzing nightlife district, filled with izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots. For a cultural touch, the Moyai Statue near the station and the Hachiko Memorial Statue honouring Japan’s famous loyal dog offer great photo opportunities and stories to discover.

Pro tip: Visit the crossing in the evening for a dazzling view of the neon lights. Shibuya is accessible via the JR Yamanote Line.

Harajuku is Tokyo’s epicentre of creativity, where unique fashion trends and youthful energy converge. Takeshita Street is the district’s most popular thoroughfare, lined with eclectic vintage boutiques, quirky accessory shops, and food stalls offering delights like rainbow cotton candy and freshly made crepes. Be sure to drop by Harajuku Gyoza Lou for some savoury dumplings.

For a more refined experience, head to Omotesando, Harajuku’s upscale counterpart. Here, you’ll find luxury boutiques like Louis Vuitton and Prada, alongside chic cafes housed in architecturally stunning buildings. Art lovers will appreciate the Design Festa Gallery located nearby, which showcases works by emerging local and international artists.

Pro tip: Visit early in the day to navigate Takeshita Street’s shops and eateries before the crowds gather. Harajuku is accessible via the JR Yamanote Line or Meiji-Jingumae Station.

Ginza is Tokyo’s high-end shopping and dining district, celebrated for its sophisticated charm and elegant atmosphere. Lined with flagship stores and luxury boutiques such as Chanel, Hermès, and Dior, Ginza rivals the world’s most famous shopping streets. Iconic department stores like Mitsukoshi and Ginza Six house everything from international fashion labels to traditional Japanese crafts.

Beyond retail, Ginza’s culinary scene is second to none. Indulge in Michelin-starred sushi restaurants, including Sukiyabashi Jiro, or savour local delicacies at historic establishments like Ginza Akebono, known for its traditional wagashi sweets. The district also hosts Kabukiza Theatre, where visitors can witness captivating kabuki performances, a classic Japanese art form.

On weekends, the main street, Chuo-dori, transforms into a pedestrian haven, allowing visitors to stroll and shop at leisure amidst the refined surroundings.

Pro tip: Visit on weekends for pedestrian-friendly streets and a relaxed shopping experience. Ginza Station is served by multiple subway lines, providing easy access.

Akihabara is a dream destination for fans of anime, manga, and cutting-edge gadgets. Known as 'Electric Town', it’s filled with multi-story stores selling everything from figurines and collectables to the latest electronics. Popular spots include Yodobashi Camera and Akihabara Radio Kaikan for tech enthusiasts.

Anime lovers will find treasures in speciality shops filled with figurines, DVDs, and merchandise dedicated to popular franchises. Retro gaming enthusiasts can browse stores like Super Potato, which stocks vintage consoles and games from gaming’s golden era. For an interactive experience, themed arcades such as SEGA Akihabara offer floors of entertainment, from claw machines to virtual reality.

Akihabara is also famous for its unique maid cafes, where staff dressed as maids serve food in a whimsical and friendly environment. These themed eateries provide an experience unlike any other, blending fantasy with fun.

Pro tip: Visit during the afternoon to enjoy a livelier atmosphere. Akihabara is accessible via the JR Yamanote Line.

Spanning over 130 acres, Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s most beloved green spaces that is especially popular during spring when its cherry blossoms attract visitors for hanami (blossom viewing) picnics.

Beyond its natural beauty, the park boasts some of Tokyo’s most prestigious cultural institutions. The Tokyo National Museum displays an unparalleled collection of Japanese artefacts, while the National Museum of Western Art features acclaimed European works. Ueno Zoo, Japan’s oldest zoological park, is another highlight, home to a wide range of animals, including its beloved giant pandas.

In summer, Shinobazu Pond transforms into a picturesque retreat, with vibrant lotus blooms and boat rentals for a tranquil escape. Seasonal festivals, food stalls, and street performances also add vibrancy to the park throughout the year.

Pro tip: Access Ueno Park via Ueno Station on the JR and Tokyo Metro lines. Arrive early during cherry blossom season to secure a prime spot for hanami.

Tokyo Skytree, standing at an impressive 634 metres, is the tallest structure in Japan and a symbol of modern engineering. Located in the Sumida district, the tower features two observation decks, one at 350 metres and the other at 450 metres, providing sweeping views of Tokyo’s skyline. On clear days, visitors can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji.

At the base of the tower is the Solamachi complex, a shopping and dining hub with over 300 stores and a variety of restaurants. Highlights include speciality shops offering traditional Japanese crafts and unique souvenirs. The tower also houses an aquarium and a planetarium, making it a great spot for families.

Pro tip: Visit close to sunset for daytime and nighttime views from the observation decks. Book tickets online in advance to skip long queues. Take the Tobu Skytree Line to Tokyo Skytree Station for direct access.

Located on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay, Odaiba is a futuristic destination filled with shopping, entertainment, and attractions. DiverCity Tokyo Plaza is a highlight, featuring a life-sized Gundam statue and a shopping mall with an array of international and Japanese stores. Nearby, the Miraikan Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation offers hands-on exhibits about robotics, space exploration, and technology.

For a more relaxed experience, Palette Town boasts a retro-style shopping mall and one of the world’s largest Ferris wheels, offering stunning views of Tokyo Bay. Odaiba’s waterfront area, with its sandy beach and decked walkways, is a great spot for strolls and offers a perfect view of the illuminated Rainbow Bridge at night.

Pro tip: Plan your visit in the afternoon to enjoy the attractions and stay for the stunning sunset views. Take the Yurikamome Line for a scenic journey across the bay.

With its blend of tradition and modernity and endless places to visit and things to do, Tokyo is simply one of the world’s most captivating cities.

From the historic serenity of Senso-ji Temple to the futuristic allure of Odaiba, the city offers something for every traveller.

Plan your journey to experience the energy, charm, and cultural depth of Tokyo — where every corner reveals something extraordinary.