Here at Local Adventurer, we want to build more of a community of people who are passionate about exploring both near and far. Our friend, Pete, has been to Japan seven times and has experienced a lot of exciting things that we hope to do on our next trip! Today, he’s sharing his guide to Tokyo.
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Last Updated: January 29, 2020
15 Coolest Things to Do in Tokyo Japan
I have had the good fortune of traveling to Tokyo seven times these past few years, and while I have ventured to some of the more bizarre corners of Tokyo, I feel as if I have only begun to scratch the surface of what this amazing city has to offer. Here is a list of the highlights that I have compiled during my visits. I am confident that this list can start you off in the right direction for what is sure to be nothing short of your own, personal, epic adventure.
4 Chome-12-9 Sotokanda, Chiyoda City, 101-0021, map
Race through the streets of Tokyo dressed as your favorite characters and learn how to drive on the left-hand side of the road while dodging real-life traffic. No guides, no helmets… probably one of the coolest things you can do in life (GPS not included).
You do need an international drivers license, and if you prefer to have a guide take you to all the highlights, that’s an option as well. Now, the only question left is which character will you dress up as?
1 Chome-7-1 Kabukicho | B2f, Kabukicho, Shinjuku 160-0021, map
Witness Taiko Drumming and laser beams on acid, flashing lights, freaking laser beams and giant, radio-controlled, robots battling to the death. Basically, everything you would come to expect from a trip to Tokyo.
The restaurant is extremely popular and it is very unlikely that you’ll get a seat if you walk up. Be sure to reserve your tickets ahead of time.
Harajuku Neighborhood, map
While walking down the bustling, pedestrian-friendly, roads of Harajuku make sure to peek your head into one of the many crêpe stands along the way. An instant-energy-pick-me-up. And sugar. There are also some interesting shops scattered along the walkway and endless Instagrammable foods to check out.
Note: If you are a first timer and want to explore more cool places in Harajuku, check out this Harajuku Fashion & Pop-culture tour with MagicalTrip.
2 Chome-2-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, 150-0043, map
While I would prefer to plug a local coffee shop or a small eatery, the second floor of the Starbucks at Shibuya crossing offers an unparalleled viewing experience of Shibuya Crossing. Witness one of the most heavily pedestrian trafficked areas in the world (if not THE most heavily pedestrian trafficked area) with roughly half a million people passing through daily.
The area has also become an unofficial place for street celebrations for young people. The most notable is on Halloween when thousands of people in costumes come to roam the streets.
Pro Tip: If you prefer to have a guide, check out this Shibuya tour, where they will take you around to iconic spots, including Starbucks, and tell you more about the history.
photo: Ryoji Iwata
1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, 151-8557, map
While visiting Harajuku in the Shibuya District, save enough time to write a prayer at the Meiji-Jingu Shrine. The tranquil setting, towering greenery, and wide-open gravel walking paths are a short-distance escape from the meticulously controlled chaos urban landscape that surrounds it.
You can even take a tour from a National Licensed Guide, and if you love sushi, combine it with Tsukiji Sushi Making.
Local Tip: There is an Inner Garden that is extra quiet and oftentimes missed.
1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, 131-0045, map
The second tallest building in the world is open to the public and has amazing views. The elevator ride is a trip, too. Go at least twice (once during the day and once during the night).
Local Tip: Skip the lines by picking up a ticket ahead of time.
1 Chome -11-4 Sotokanda | Mitsuwa Bldg. 3-7F, Chiyoda 101-0021, map
Looking to induce a quick culture shock fever? Try a Maid Café. Originally created to service the male otaku fetishes, it quickly expanded to attract a wide array of different customers. Just let one of the many girls on the street soliciting their services guide you down a seedy alleyway to an elevator that takes you up to one of the many different themed cafés.
The one we visited was @home cafe. It sounds as weird as it is. Totally worth it. Keep in mind that photos aren’t allowed unless you pay for them. We noticed some regular patrons had books where they collected photos with the maids.
Note: If you are a first timer, I recommend you to join this Akihabara tour with a local guide to experience Akihabara culture, must-visit maid cafes, and other gaming spots.
〒101-0021 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Sotokanda, 4 Chome−2−2 貴三ビル, map
They are scattered all over Tokyo and they all offer a really good time. Win an anime figurine in a claw game or wow your friends with your dancing skills. Just be warned that the locals are better than you. Like, a lot better.
If you want a guide to help you navigate the Akihabara area, check out this tour that will take you to all the must-do activities.
Looking for a day in Tokyo where you can just unwind and do nothing? Go to a traditional Onsen to enjoy natural volcanic hot spring water pumped from deep underground. You can even go to an Onsen with a view of Mount Fuji. Here are some popular onsen in and near Tokyo:
- Heiwajima Natural Hot Spring, South Tokyo
- Nagomi no Yu, West Tokyo
- Niwa no Yu, North Tokyo
- Oedo Onsen Monogatari, Central Tokyo
- Teikoku-yu, East Tokyo
Note: If you have a tattoo, many onsen will not allow you in because of their association with the yakuza (Japanese organized crime). Before your visit, double check the rules. If you have a small tattoo, you can cover it up with this waterproof concealer (see tutorial).
Otherwise, some tattoo-friendly onsen include:
Walk into something that looks like a fancy bank and you’ll have the opportunity to rent out a room with you and your buddies to sing the night away. Nice music selection. Alcohol not included. Sing until you lose your voice… even if it is 3 AM.
You can also check out this tour for a typical evening in Shinjuku, including game centers, little alleyways, and karaoke bars.
11. Walk along the beach at night in Odaiba
1 Chome-4 Daiba, Minato City, Tokyo 135-0091, map
With a view of Rainbow Bridge and no open container laws, you can play in the sand along the waterfront for an epic date night. If that’s the sorta thing you’re looking for.
Note: Get a taste of NYC with Odaiba’s replica of the Statue of Liberty.
2 Chome-2-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-8330, map
Some of the best views, drinks, and service in Tokyo. Closes pretty early (relative to some Karaoke Bars at least!). Remember not to tip! It’s considered rude.
13. Rely on vending machines and cafés for snacks
Address, map
Tired of shopping in Shibuya or recovering from a late night out in Roppongi? Grab a Pocari Sweat from a vending machine and then hit up a café for some fancy drip coffee and a slice of heaven.
While the US has the most vending machines overall, Japan has the greatest density of vending machines in the world. You can buy the most random things from vending machines here. Some of the strangest ones sold vegetables, fruit, eggs, rice, hot meals, and canned clothes.
14. Use the smart toilet
Address, map
It might be intimidating at first, but it will change your life and your butt will thank you. And then you will miss it when you come back to the States.
15. Check out the Pokémon Mega Center and the Aquarium in Ikebukuro
〒170-0013 Tokyo, Toshima City, Higashiikebukuro, 3 Chome−1−2 サンシャインシティ 専門店街アルパ 2F, map
Most Importantly, Get lost
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More Things to Do in Tokyo Japan
If you come back for a second visit, here are some more ideas for your next trip.
- B-Pump Akihabara (map) – go indoor rock climbing.
- Cooking Class – Make sushi, ramen, udon, and more.
- Ghibli Museum, Mitaka (map)
- Hedgehog Cafe & Pet Store HARRY Harajuku (map)
- teamLab Borderless, Palette Town (map)
- Izakaya Alley – grab a drink here
- Kawaii Monster Cafe, Harajuku (map)
- National Museum of Western Art, Ueno Park (map) – UNESCO site. Also take a swan boat ride in Shinobazu Pond.
- Senso-ji, Asakusa (map) – oldest temple in Tokyo.
- Sumo Wrestling – get a morning practice tour
- Tea Ceremony – taste the best matcha.
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Shinjuku (map) – great views from the observation decks and free to enter.
- Tokyo Tower (map)
- Toyosu Market (map) – formerly Tsukiji Fish Market and where they relocated to.
- Yayoi Kusama Museum, Shinjuku (map)
Top 10 Things to Do in Tokyo Japan According to Tripadvisor
Essential Tips for Visiting Tokyo for First Timers
- Best Time to Visit: Summer is peak season. Go during March and April to see cherry blossoms and between September and November to see fall foliage.
- Carry a Large Ziplock Bag or the Eco-friendly Stasher. It’s hard to find any public trash cans. I spent a day carrying wrappers in my hand. Even if it’s portable food, eat it there and dispose of your trash.
- Don’t Touch Taxi Doors. They auto open, and the drivers don’t like it when you touch them.
- Tsukiji Fish Market Moved to Toyosu Market. The famous tuna auction is at Toyosu, but the outer market with the restaurants at Tsukiji is still there.
- Use Google Maps. We relied on google maps to help us navigate the city. You can even get public transportation directions. At the bottom, it tells you how much you need to pay since price differs based on distance.
- Get a Hotspot. If you don’t have international roaming on your phone, grab a hotspot to stay connected.
- Get Help from the Concierge. Most hotels will have english speaking staff but not all restaurants will. Have them help you make a reservation.
- Cash is King. Although credit cards are taken in some places, Japan is still a cash-based society.
- Next Level Convenience Stores. Unlike convenience stores in the US, the ones in Japan are amazing! They have decent food and easy-to-use ATMs.
- Bring Hand Sanitizer. The toilets are fancy, but a lot of public bathrooms don’t have soap.
- Explore Neighborhoods. Tokyo is a big place and rather than wasting your time running around the city, do a little bit of planning so you can explore each neighborhood thoroughly.
How to Get to Tokyo
- By Plane – Fly in Narita Airport in Chiba or Haneda Airport.
- By Train – the shinkansen is the easiest way to get around from other parts of Japan to Tokyo.
Tokyo Vlog
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Have you been to Tokyo? Any must do things to do in Tokyo that we missed?
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Reviewed by Kritik Sah
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January 29, 2020
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