Tokyo, the bustling capital city of Japan, is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends the traditional with the ultra-modern. When traveling to Tokyo, there are some important tips to keep in mind to make the most of your trip:
- Purchase a Suica or Pasmo card for easy access to public transportation.
- Respect the local customs and traditions, such as bowing and removing shoes before entering homes.
- Try the delicious street food, from takoyaki to ramen to sushi.
- Visit the iconic Meiji Shrine and Senso-ji Temple to experience the spiritual side of Tokyo.
- Explore the diverse neighborhoods, from the trendy shops of Harajuku to the historic streets of Asakusa.
- Take a day trip to nearby Mt. Fuji or Hakone for stunning views of the countryside.
- Don’t forget to experience the quirky side of Tokyo with a visit to the Robot Restaurant or a cat cafe.
Things to do in Tokyo / Top 20 must-visit sites and monuments in Tokyo:
- Tokyo Skytree – The tallest tower in Japan offering panoramic views of the city. [Reference: tokyoskytree.jp]
- Tsukiji Fish Market – The largest fish market in the world, where you can experience the bustling atmosphere of a traditional Japanese market. [Reference: tsukiji.or.jp]
- Shibuya Crossing – The busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, where you can witness the organized chaos of Tokyo. [Reference: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shibuya_Crossing]
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – A serene escape from the city with beautifully landscaped gardens and cherry blossoms in spring. [Reference: env.go.jp/garden/shinjukugyoen/english/]
- Tokyo Disneyland – A magical world of Disney characters and attractions for the whole family. [Reference: tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/tdl/]
- Imperial Palace – The former residence of the Emperor of Japan, surrounded by gardens and moats. [Reference: kunaicho.go.jp/eindex.html]
- Odaiba – A futuristic artificial island with shopping malls, entertainment complexes, and the iconic Rainbow Bridge. [Reference: visit-oedaba.com/en/]
- Akihabara – The mecca of anime, manga, and electronics, with countless shops and cafes dedicated to otaku culture. [Reference: go-to-akiba.com/en/]
- Ueno Park – A sprawling park with museums, a zoo, and cherry blossoms in spring, perfect for a leisurely stroll. [Reference: ueno-park.tokyo/]
- Roppongi Hills – A modern complex with shopping, dining, art galleries, and the Mori Art Museum. [Reference: roppongihills.com/en/]
- Asakusa – A historic district with the famous Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise shopping street, and traditional rickshaw rides. [Reference: asakusatemple.com/]
- Tokyo Tower – An iconic symbol of Tokyo with observation decks offering stunning views of the city skyline. [Reference: tokyotower.co.jp/en.html]
- Odaiba Gundam Statue – A 60-foot tall statue of the iconic Gundam robot, a must-see for anime and robot enthusiasts. [Reference: gundam.jp/]
- Yoyogi Park – A popular spot for picnics, festivals, and people-watching, with lush greenery and open spaces. [Reference: tokyo-park.or.jp/park/format/form022.html]
- National Museum of Modern Art – A world-class museum showcasing Japanese and international contemporary art. [Reference: momat.go.jp/)
- Tokyo Dome – A multi-purpose stadium hosting concerts, sports events, and amusement park rides. [Reference: tokyo-dome.co.jp/e/]
- Kabukiza Theater – Experience traditional Japanese Kabuki theater performances in this historic theater. [Reference: kabukiweb.net/theaters/kabukiza/]
- Edo-Tokyo Museum – Learn about the history and culture of Tokyo, from its Edo period roots to modern-day. [Reference: edo-tokyo-museum.or.jp/en/]
- Yanaka Ginza – A charming shopping street lined with traditional shops, food stalls, and nostalgic vibes. [Reference: tasteatlas.com/yanaka-ginza]
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building – Visit the observation decks for panoramic views of Tokyo for free. [Reference: metro.tokyo.lg.jp/en/]
Activities Reference Links:
- Tokyo Skytree – [https://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/en/]
- Tsukiji Fish Market – [https://www.tsukiji.or.jp/]
- Shibuya Crossing – [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shibuya_Crossing]
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – [https://www.env.go.jp/garden/shinjukugyoen/english/]
- Tokyo Disneyland – [https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/tdl/]
- Imperial Palace – [https://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/index.html]
- Odaiba – [https://www.visitingodaiba.com/en/]
- Akihabara – [https://www.gotokyo.org/en/kanko/chiyoda/spot/40113.html]
- Ueno Park – [https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/format/form022.html]
- Roppongi Hills – [https://www.roppongihills.com/en/]
- Asakusa – [https://www.asakusu.jp/en/]
- Tokyo Tower – [https://www.tokyotower.co.jp/en.html]
- Odaiba Gundam Statue – [http://www.gundam.jp/]
- Yoyogi Park – [https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/detail_01.html#yoyogi]
- National Museum of Modern Art – [https://www.momat.go.jp/english/]
Don’t forget to get Travel Insurance Before You Travel
If you’re looking for travel insurance, we recommend the following travel insurance provider:
World Nomads Travel Insurance | Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip with Travelex | Cancel for any reason with Travel Guard |
Our Top Travel Gear and Equipment Recommendations: Best Camera, Photo and Video Equipment for Your Travels
If you’re interested in our recommended travel gear and photo/video equipment:
- Best and Most Useful Travel Gear:
- Best photo / video cameras and equipment for Travel:
- Best Action Cameras and Portable Cameras
- Best Full-Frame DSLR Cameras and DSLR Cameras for Amateur and Professional Photographers
- Best Drones and Aerial Photography Cameras
- Best Tripods, Monopods and Selfie Sticks for Photography and Videography
- Best Mobile Phones and Cell Phones, Best Laptops and Computers for Travel:
3 Days in Tokyo Visit 3-day itinerary for exploring Tokyo:
Day 1:
- Morning: Visit Asakusa to see Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise shopping street, and take a rickshaw ride.
- Afternoon: Explore Ueno Park, including the museums and Ueno Zoo.
- Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Shinjuku, including Kabukicho and Golden Gai.
Day 2:
- Morning: Head to Tsukiji Fish Market for a fresh seafood breakfast and explore the market stalls.
- Afternoon: Visit the Imperial Palace and walk around the East Gardens.
- Evening: Enjoy the bright lights of Shibuya Crossing and explore the trendy shops and cafes in Harajuku.
Day 3:
- Morning: Take a trip to Odaiba to see the Gundam Statue, Rainbow Bridge, and enjoy shopping at the malls.
- Afternoon: Visit Tokyo Skytree for stunning city views and explore the surrounding Sumida Aquarium.
- Evening: End the day with a relaxing stroll in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and a visit to the Robot Restaurant.
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Where to stay in Tokyo / Best Rated Hotels and Accommodation in Tokyo
Highest Rated Tokyo Hotels priced over $200 per night:
- The Okura Tokyo
- The Tokyo Station Hotel
- The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho
- THE AOYAMA GRAND HOTEL
- TRUNK(HOTEL) YOYOGI PARK
Recommended Tokyo Hotels priced between $100 to $200 per night:
- Shiba Park Hotel
- HOTEL TOMOS ASAKUSA
- Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku
- Hotel Intergate Tokyo Kyobashi
- Hotel Monte Hermana Tokyo
Top Rated Hotels in Tokyo priced between $50 to $100 per night:
- OTHER SPACE Asakusa
- Toshi Center Hotel
- Hotel Gracery Tokyo Tamachi
- Sotetsu Fresa Inn Tokyo Kanda
- APA Hotel Higashi Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower
Top Tokyo Hotels priced below $50 per night:
- HOTEL HOUSE LEE
- Akihabara Bay Hotel (Female Only)
- 9h nine hours Suidobashi
- Anshin Oyado Tokyo Shinbashi Shiodometen
- Resol Poshtel Tokyo Asakusa
Please note that ratings and prices may vary depending on the season and availability. Make sure to check the current rates and availability through the provided links.
For more about Japan, Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Chiba, Fukuoka and other travel destinations in Japan, read the travel tips and see all travel stories, videos, photos and writing on Rolling Coconut’s Travel section.
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