Tokyo is a glittering metropolis, where old traditions and new inventions coexist, offering a diverse range of experiences for first-time visitors. Whether you're interested in history, culture, technology, or food, Tokyo can offer something that will amaze every tourist.

These are the best 20 things to do in Tokyo, and which you should not miss when you first visit Tokyo.

List of Things to Do in Tokyo

Here’s a list of the top 20 things that first-time visitors should see in Tokyo;

1. Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa)

The oldest and most recognisable Buddhist temple in Tokyo is Senso-ji, a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the spiritual side of the city. The temple is situated in Asakusa and is a gorgeous combination of traditional and bustling markets. Explore the Kaminarimon Gate, visit Nakamise Street to experience the traditional souvenirs, and observe how people express their faith at the temple.

2. Meiji Shrine (Harajuku)

Located in a serene, forested area, the Meiji Shrine provides a peaceful meditation setting and offers an opportunity to experience traditional Shinto practices in Japan. It is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, and provides a quiet respite from the bustling streets of Tokyo, making it one of the city's favourite spiritual places.

3. Shibuya Crossing

The Shibuya Crossing is a quintessential Tokyo experience that embodies the city's vibrant nature, as it is one of the world's busiest pedestrian crossings. This is the most famous crossroads, featuring huge neon displays and malls, and it characterises the bustling atmosphere of the city.

4. Tsukiji Outer Market

The Tsukiji Outer Market is renowned for its fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere. Although the wholesale market is now located in Toyosu, the outer market remains a bustling hub for food enthusiasts and tourists. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a sushi breakfast or try the traditional Japanese snacks. It is not merely a food court; it is an exploration of Tokyo's food culture, where customers can learn about the food culture and customs of Japan in relation to food preparation.

5. Akihabara

Akihabara is the final place for electronics and anime/gaming fans in Tokyo. The Akihabara area is the heart of Japan's pop culture, housing a wide range of shops and boutiques that offer goods as diverse as gadgets and manga. They also have themed cafes, such as maid cafes, which provide a unique and unusual experience. It is a fantastic place to visit, offering the novelty of Tokyo's technology and young culture, which reveals the constantly shifting trends of the city.

6. Ueno Park and Zoo

Ueno Park is a cultural garden in Tokyo that houses museums, a zoo, and beautiful cherry trees during spring. The park also features several Shinto shrines, making it a serene spot for worship and reflection. Ueno Zoo is an excellent option for observing wildlife and learning about Japanese conservation efforts. It is a perfect destination for tourists seeking to experience the perfect blend of nature, culture, and history.

7. Odaiba

Odaiba is a highly futuristic island district that offers an extensive variety of entertainment, including shopping malls and museums. Among its remarkable features is the life-sized Gundam statue. One can also take a peaceful walk along the waterfront or visit the digital art museum, teamLab Borderless. Odaiba is a symbol of the modernity and innovation that Tokyo is embracing. Therefore, it is an ideal place where one can have fun and experience the future at the same time.

8. Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest building in Japan, offering remarkable views of the city from its observation decks. It is a contemporary marvel of construction, but it is also a state-of-the-art technology that characterises Tokyo. The tourists will enjoy a panoramic view of the expansive cityscape, and on clear days, they will even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji.

9. Ginza

Ginza is one of Tokyo's premier shopping districts, where visitors can explore luxury boutiques, art galleries, and fine dining establishments. The district is characterised by an advanced atmosphere, where tradition and modernity are united. It is a great site to observe how Tokyo has adopted Western influences and retained its own individuality.

10. Harajuku’s Takeshita Street

Takeshita Street in Harajuku is renowned for its vibrant fashion and youthful atmosphere. Ranging from trendy shops with unique clothes and accessories to sweet treats like crepes, this traditional street is an indispensable destination for anyone who wants to experience the high culture of fashion in Tokyo.

11. Roppongi Hills

Roppongi is a vibrant nightlife area; however, it also boasts some culinary attractions, such as the Mori Art Museum. The Tokyo City View observation deck offers a stunning view of the city, and visitors can also explore the numerous restaurants, shops, and art galleries that make Roppongi Hills a vibrant cultural destination.

12. Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea

DisneySea and Tokyo Disneyland are indispensable destinations for families and Disney fans. The parks are distinct, and Tokyo DisneySea is exclusive to Japan. Both parks offer an opportunity to escape into the fairy tale world of Disney and experience Japanese hospitality, with the added excitement of thrilling rides and magical parades.

13. Yanaka District

Yanaka is where you go if you want to experience a more classic feel of Tokyo. This area was not rebuilt after World War II, and it remains in its post-war atmosphere, characterised by temples, small shops, and narrow streets. It is a perfect destination for strolling, savouring local delicacies, and enjoying a slower-paced lifestyle.

14. Shimokitazawa

Shimokitazawa is a fashionable area with a bohemian atmosphere, featuring a diverse mix of vintage shops, cafes, and live music bars. It is where one can encounter the alternative Tokyo culture and creative vigour. Whether it's buying a special piece of clothing or a cup of coffee in an eccentric cafe, Shimokitazawa has a particular atmosphere that is unlike other, more commercial neighbourhoods of the city.

15. Tokyo National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum, situated in Ueno Park, is regarded as one of the most significant museums in Japan, housing over 110,000 items, including samurai armour, ancient pottery, and Buddhist statues. Tourists can discover Japan's rich cultural history by visiting artefacts and objects that date back centuries.

16. Tokyo Tower

To emulate the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Tokyo Tower is a legendary sightseeing building that commands magnificent panoramas in its observation decks. The tower is one of Tokyo's iconic symbols of rebirth after the war, but it also offers a unique perspective on the modern city. The tower is lit up at night, adding a magical touch to the skyline.

17. Nakano Broadway

Nakano Broadway is a shopping centre that collectors and pop culture enthusiasts cannot afford to miss. It is well-known for offering a vast assortment of anime, manga, and vintage toys. Nakano Broadway is an interesting place to visit, whether you are an anime fan or fascinated by Japan's pop culture.

18. Tokyo Metro Museum

For those interested in the Tokyo transport system, the Tokyo Metro Museum offers a deep insight into the history and evolution of the subway system. It is a learning and entertaining experience, particularly for families and train enthusiasts, as it features interactive exhibits and displays about the iconic Tokyo metro system.

19. Mount Takao

Mount Takao is a mountain located just outside Tokyo, offering a chance to escape the city and experience the natural surroundings. The hill offers hiking paths, Buddhist temples, and a cable car ride to the summit. It is also an excellent worship site at the Yakuoin Temple, where one can pray for wealth and good health.

20. teamLab Borderless

A new type of museum that combines technology and art, teamLab Borderless is an interactive space where visitors can immerse themselves in a constantly changing digital art installation of breathtaking beauty. It is also one of the most thrilling and future-oriented cultural experiences in Tokyo.

Exploring Tokyo’s Diverse Experiences!

The city of Tokyo is an ideal blend of the old and the new, offering tourists a chance to explore the country's rich traditions alongside its high-tech modernity. It doesn't matter whether you are provided spiritual contemplation in Meiji Shrine, spend money in fashionable areas such as Ginza, or engage in the digital realm of teamLab Borderless; Tokyo has it all. All these top 20 things to do in Tokyo will guarantee unforgettable moments and experiences during your first visit to Tokyo.

Sources

TripAdvisor - Attractions in Tokyo

Hey Roseanne - Best Places to Visit in Tokyo for First-Timers

Tokyo Tourist Information - Things to Do in Tokyo