In this video, we'll show you the top 10 things to do in Tokyo.
The suggestions are based on our fun trip to the largest city on Earth.
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And stick around until the end of this video because we have a bonus for you.
Here are our top 10 picks:
Number 10: Takeshita Street
Tokyo is famous for its diverse shopping options, including luxury fashion brands,
electronics, and traditional Japanese goods.
Explore Takeshita Street in Harajuku, known for its trendy fashion, unique boutiques,
and youth culture. The area is known for its vibrant street style.
It is often associated with the "Harajuku girls" who dress in eclectic and colorful fashion
and the busy multilevel Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku shopping mall.
Try the rainbow toast – because why not :)
the longest tunnel potato, or one of many other delicious desserts,
like cotton candy at Totti Candy Factory or Marion crêpe.
If you're up for a unique cute experience, don't skip the nearby Hedgehog café.
And there are tons of places all over Tokyo
where you can experience a culture of cuteness or, as they call it in Japan – kawaii.
There are many other districts and neighborhoods that offer unique shopping experiences,
like the upscale Ginza, known for its luxury shopping, high-end fashion boutiques, and department stores.
Number 9: Sensō-ji Temple
Japan has two major religions: Shinto and Buddhism. And the two that have coexisted for centuries.
While both Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples in Japan are places of worship and can be visited
by the general public, they have different customs and practices associated with them.
Did you know there are over 3,000 shrines and temples in Tokyo, more than any other city in Japan?
Visit Sensō-ji, one of Tokyo's most popular and oldest Buddhist temples.
Although rebuilt several times over the centuries due to fires and other natural disasters,
and bombing during the World War II it is still known for its rich history, traditional architecture,
and cultural significance. It dates back to the 7th century when two fishermen discovered a Kannon statue
in the Sumida River. The temple was built around the statue, now housed in the main hall.
One of the most striking features of Sensō-ji is the temple's main gate,
the Kaminarimon, which is adorned by a large paper lantern bearing the temple's name.
Visitors to the temple typically walk through the gate and down the Nakamise-dōri,
a shopping street lined with traditional shops selling souvenirs and Japanese goods,
leading to the temple's main hall. The temple also features several other buildings,
including a pagoda, a treasure house, and a museum. Don't forget to explore the rest of Asakusa
with several shopping streets and delicious food.
Number 8: Food
Tokyo is one of the world's top destinations for foodies. It offers a diverse and delicious
food scene and a wide variety of cuisines and dining experiences, like the intriguing alleys
called yokocho, for example the famous Omoide Yokocho, aka Memory Lane - a narrow street filled with
tiny bars and restaurants or, as the Japanese called it, izakayas
or for instance, Golden Gai or Golden Block,
both popular nightlife spots, and both located in Shinjuku.
The area is known for its bohemian atmosphere and association with the city's counterculture and nightlife.
Of course, while visiting these unique places, get a taste of Japanese rice wine called sake, often served as part
part of a traditional Japanese meal. You can enjoy it as an aperitif or paired with various dishes.
Tokyo – the city with the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world is considered
one of the world's food capitals Besides its famous typical dishes
like sushi and its many variations of sushi, like sashimi and nigiri, or renowned ramen,
udon, or soba. Don't skip delicious street food with famous takoyaki octopus balls,
stir-fried noodles called yakisoba, skewered rice dumplings named dango, and many others.
Japan is also known for its delicious and unique desserts, many of which have been
influenced by traditional Japanese ingredients and techniques, for example, Wagashi
that comes in various shapes and flavors and is often enjoyed with tea, like mochi, or other desserts,
like dorayaki – a type of Japanese pancake or fish-shaped dessert called taiyaki.
Check our travel guide for more suggestions and ideas about which cafes to visit.
By the way, our mobile-friendly travel guide covers the top 20 things to do in Tokyo
and things to know before you visit, including maps, opening hours,
links, itinerary suggestions, best day trips, and other information.
Number 7: Tokyo Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace in Tokyo is the main residence of the Emperor of Japan located in Chiyoda,
It is located on the former site of Edo Castle (Chiyoda Castle)
a large feudal castle built in the mid-15th century.
The castle was the shogun's residence and military government headquarters throughout the Edo period.
Did you know that Tokyo was originally a small fishing village known as Edo,
which means "estuary" in Japanese? In 1868, following the Meiji Restoration,
the capital was moved from Kyoto and the city's name was changed to Tokyo
meaning "Eastern Capital," to reflect its new status as the capital of the modernized Japan.
However, Edo Castle has a long history with several fires occurring over the centuries.
The last major one in 1873, destroyed much of the castle. Today, only a few structures
from the original castle remain, including the castle's foundation stones, moats, and walls.
In 1960, a palace called the Imperial Palace was built on the site of the former Edo Castle,
which now serves as the residence of the emperor of Japan.
You can visit the palace on a guided tour or freely walk around the gardens and the ruins.
Discover the enchanting Chiyoda City,
an idyllic destination filled with picturesque canals, vibrant gardens, and charming pathways,
like The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. During the Sakura season, make sure to rent a boat
at the moat and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of cherry blossoms.
Number 6: Vending machines
Vending machines are a common sight in Japan. They can be found in many locations,
including on the street, train stations, and shopping malls. They offer various products
with drinks, snacks, and unique items, like a cake in a can, ramen,
or even insects. Insert some coins and select from a diverse array of cartoon characters,
anime stars, and collectibles available in vinyl, plushies, and other forms.
It is estimated that with 5 million machines, Japan has the highest number of vending machines per capita
– literally one for every 25 people. Vending machines are popular due to the country's
high population density and busy lifestyle, which makes purchasing items from vending machines
a quick and convenient option for people. One of the most interesting ones is
the so-called Horror Vending Machine Corner, located close to Akihabara.
Number 5: Miraikan Museum
Tokyo's museums offer a diverse and fascinating array of exhibits, showcasing everything from
traditional Japanese art and culture to innovative technology and contemporary art worldwide.
Miraikan, also known as The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation,
is a cutting-edge museum offering diverse exhibits and experiences showcasing the
latest advancements in science and technology. Visitors are immersed in interactive displays,
virtual reality simulations, and hands-on experiments, providing a unique opportunity
to explore the frontiers of innovation. Miraikan covers a wide array of topics,
including robotics, space exploration, artificial intelligence, and environmental sustainability.
It serves as a hub for scientific education and exploration, encouraging visitors to ponder
the impact of emerging technologies on society and the world we inhabit.
Miraikan stands as a beacon of scientific discovery, inspiring curiosity and fostering
a deeper understanding of the rapidly evolving world of science and technology.
Tokyo offers an array of museums to explore, making it an ideal destination,
especially on rainy days.
Number 4: Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing, or "Scramble Crossing," is a busy intersection
in the heart of the commercial and financial center - Shibuya. It is known for its large crowds of pedestrians
crossing the street simultaneously, creating a unique, almost chaotic scene.
The crossing is located in front of the Shibuya Station. It is often featured in movies and TV shows
as a symbol of Tokyo's bustling city life. It is considered one of the busiest pedestrian
crossings in the world, with as many as 2,500 people crossing at one time during peak hours.
Shibuya is a popular tourist destination, and many people come to watch the crossing
from the surrounding buildings. This place is scheduled for redevelopment in the near future.
Don't skip a popular meeting spot at The Hachikō Memorial Statue honoring the loyal Akita dog Hachikō,
who waited for his deceased owner at the train station every day for nine years.
Explore the rest of Shibuya, like the narrow street of Shibuya Center-Gai, which is especially
popular among youths. It offers many food options, brand-name stores, and busy nightlife.
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Number 3: Ueno Park
Ueno Park, established in 1873, is a large public park known for museums,
temples, gardens, and a zoo. The park is home to several important cultural institutions,
including the Tokyo National Museum and the National Museum of Nature and Science.
The park also features several temples, like Benten-do Temple, dedicated to the goddess of mercy.
One of the main attractions in Ueno Park is the Shinobazu Pond,
home to various bird species. Rent a boat and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Tokyo is home to many beautiful parks and gardens. Check our travel guide for more suggestions.
Number 2: Otaku culture
Otaku culture is a significant part of Japanese pop culture and has also gained popularity around the world.
This subculture is associated with strong interest in anime, manga, video games,
and other forms of popular entertainment. The term "otaku" originally referred to people
with obsessive interests but has since taken on a more positive connotation.
Otaku culture encompasses various attractions and activities, including cosplay, collectible card games,
and fan fiction. It is also known for its vibrant subcultures, such as the maid cafés,
where young women dress in maid costumes and serve customers in a café setting.
Tokyo is home to several places popular among otaku culture fans,
such as the famous Akihabara neighborhood, often referred to as the "otaku capital" of Japan,
and Ghibli Museum, dedicated to the works of the Japanese animation studio.
Number 1: Observation decks
Tokyo offers several impressive observation decks that offer panoramic views of the city.
Visit at least The Tokyo Skytree, a broadcasting and observation tower completed in 2012.
At 2,080 feet (634 meters) it is the tallest structure in Japan. The Skytree features observation decks,
a restaurant, and a shopping mall. The tower is designed to withstand earthquakes and typhoons.
Don't skip The Tokyo Tower - a 1092 ft (333 meters) tall communications and observation tower built in 1958,
once the tallest structure in Japan until the completion of the Tokyo Skytree in 2012.
The tower is a popular tourist destination and is often used as a symbol of Tokyo.
If you don't have enough time to visit one of two observation decks,
just walk around the Zojo-ji Buddhist temple with beautiful views towards Tokyo Tower.
And here is the bonus that we promised.
If you have extra time in Tokyo, visit one of many unique cafes.
There is no place like Tokyo when it comes to exciting bars and restaurants like Avatar Robot Café.
Experience a one-of-a-kind dining adventure or enjoy refreshing juice, where you'll be served
by robot avatars controlled remotely by individuals with disabilities or mental health challenges,
enabling them to engage with society and overcome the limitations of their homebound circumstances.
We wish you an amazing trip to Tokyo.