Things to Do in Tokyo: A Complete Travel Guide with Personal Experiences
⏱ 8 min read
When people ask what is the capital of Japan, the answer is Tokyo, a city that effortlessly blends ancient culture with futuristic innovation. From serene temples and traditional rituals to modern shopping districts and quirky street fashion, Tokyo is full of surprises. If you’re planning your Japan itinerary here’s a detailed guide to the best things to do in Tokyo, based on my personal experiences.
Temples and Traditional Experiences in Tokyo
One of the most iconic places to visit in Tokyo is Asakusa Temple. I rented a kimono here, and walking through the temple grounds in traditional Japanese attire was magical I truly felt like I had stepped into another era.
Inside the temple, I tried the ritual of drawing a fortune slip (omikuji). Unfortunately, mine predicted bad fortune! Luckily, Japanese tradition allows you to tie the paper at the temple, symbolically leaving your bad luck behind. It was a fascinating cultural experience that I’ll never forget.
Futuristic Skylines and Famous Crossings
Tokyo is world-famous for its stunning modern attractions. I loved the sweeping city views from Tokyo Skytree, followed by a serene Sumida River Cruise. But the biggest thrill was standing at the legendary Shibuya Crossing the busiest intersection in the world. Watching hundreds of people cross from all directions feels chaotic yet perfectly synchronized.
At night, the illuminated Odaiba Rainbow Bridge was breathtaking. Tokyo at night has a dazzling charm that you simply can’t miss.
Disney Sea in Tokyo: Things to do in Tokyo
If you’re planning your Tokyo itinerary, make sure to dedicate at least one full day to Tokyo DisneySea because it’s truly one of a kind. While there are many Disneylands around the world, there is only one DisneySea, and it’s right here in Japan. The park is designed with ocean-inspired themes and attractions you won’t find anywhere else. As a fan of Ariel from The Little Mermaid, I dressed up like her and fully immersed myself in the magical shows and rides. It was without doubt one of the most unforgettable things to do in Tokyo and a highlight of my trip.
Day Trips from Tokyo
Tokyo’s location makes it easy to explore nearby cities and natural wonders. I took a day trip to Nikko, surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls. The highlight was the UNESCO-listed Toshogu Shrine, decorated with intricate carvings and golden details.
We had also planned Kamakura and Yokohama, but after days of exploring, we decided to spend more time shopping in Tokyo instead a decision I don’t regret at all!
Best thing to do in Tokyo Japan: Team Lab Planets
Another must on the list of things to do in Tokyo is teamLab Planets, an immersive digital art museum that honestly left me amazed I had never seen anything like it before. The experience is fully interactive: you walk barefoot through water, explore mirrored spaces, and become part of incredible light installations that shift all around you. What made it even more special for me was that it was within walking distance from my hotel, JAL City Toyosu. On our way back it started drizzling, which made the evening feel even more magical.
💡 Tips for visiting teamLab Plaanets:
- Book tickets in advance — slots sell out quickly.
- Dress smartly — the floors are mirrored, so wear pants instead of skirts or dresses.
- Light or white clothes look stunning under the glowing digital displays, making your photos even more Instagram-worthy.
This isn’t just an art museum — it’s a surreal, sensory journey and one of the most unforgettable places to visit in Tokyo.
Need Guidance on clothes: What to wear in Japan
Shopping in Tokyo: From Luxury Streets to Quirky Finds
When it comes to things to do in Tokyo, shopping deserves a special mention. The city is a paradise for shopaholics, offering everything from high-end luxury to quirky street fashion and hidden vintage gems. Some of the must-visit neighborhoods for shopping in Tokyo include:
Shinjuku – Famous for its buzzing nightlife and observation decks, Shinjuku also gave me one of my funniest memories: finding a Subway outlet (yes, the sandwich chain!). It might sound ordinary, but that was the best Subway sandwich I’ve ever eaten so good that I later recreated it at home because I missed it so much.
Harajuku’s Takeshita Street – A lively hub of youth culture, quirky fashion, and themed cafés. The entrance has a live YouTube streaming board that captures everyone walking in such a fun experience! This street is also lined with capsule toy shops where you pay a few hundred yen and get a surprise toy. It’s playful, colorful, and one of the most unique places to visit in Tokyo.
Ginza – Tokyo’s luxury shopping district, home to global brands, fine dining, and massive flagship stores. For example, Muji has a seven-floor building and Uniqlo boasts a twelve-floor megastore, each feeling like a city in itself. I even stepped into Gucci just for window shopping and was amazed by their hospitality being served sparkling water while browsing was a new experience for me. In India, shopping sometimes feels intimidating or judgmental, but in Japan, everything feels welcoming and effortless. For affordable yet stylish Japanese fashion, GU is a must.
👉 Still curious about what I brought back from Japan? Check out my full Japan haul
Beyond the big names, Tokyo also has treasures like Charles & Keith, which is noticeably more affordable in Japan compared to India. And if you love sustainable fashion, the city is full of vintage thrift stores offering pre-loved luxury handbags at great prices.
Shopping in Tokyo isn’t just about buying things it’s about the experience. From futuristic multi-floor architecture to the warm hospitality of staff, the city turns shopping into one of the most enjoyable things to do in Tokyo.
If you love luxury shopping, Tokyo is the place for you, with its high-end brands, flagship megastores, and unique fashion finds. But if you’re looking for more affordable, everyday shopping, then Osaka is where you’ll find budget-friendly options and casual street styles. Together, the two cities perfectly balance Japan’s shopping culture.
Want to go deeper? Read next: Japan Shopping Guide
The Quirky and Futuristic Side of Tokyo
Beyond the major attractions, Tokyo is full of little surprises. I spotted tiny toy-like cars zipping around the streets, and even saw robot deliveries bringing food to people’s homes. The city feels like a blend of anime imagination and real-world innovation. Every corner of Tokyo tells a different story, from traditional rituals to cutting-edge technology.
Where to stay in Tokyo?
During my trip, I stayed at Hotel JAL City Tokyo Toyosu. It was a luxurious stay with easy access to a FamilyMart convenience store right next to it. Convenience stores in Japan are fascinating in themselves perfect for grabbing snacks, drinks, and even full meals. It was also so close to the station that you can travel anywhere and everything with ease.
Things to do In Tokyo: Airport Shopping
Even on the last day, Tokyo had one final treat waiting for me. At the airport, I bought Royce’ Nama Chocolate a Japanese specialty that I highly recommend. The best part? At the airport, they pack it with dry ice, keeping it safe for 10–12 hours. It survived my entire journey home, and every bite reminded me of Japan’s sweetness.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Tokyo
From sacred temples to modern skylines, from Disney magic to endless shopping, Tokyo is a city that balances tradition with modernity like no other. My trip was full of surprises wearing a kimono at Asakusa, standing at Shibuya Crossing, eating my favorite Subway sandwich in Shinjuku, and taking home Royce’ chocolates.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, this guide covers the best things to do in Tokyo and the most memorable places to visit in Tokyo. Trust me, once you experience it, Tokyo will stay in your heart forever.
