The Ultimate Tokyo Travel Guide

things to do & see, what to eat, where to stay!

Tokyo, Japan, is a vibrant capital where tradition meets innovation. Discover the contrast between towering skyscrapers illuminated by neon lights alongside peaceful temples nestled in lush gardens. Savor Michelin-starred dining or unearth local gems at charming izakayas—don’t forget to try the gourmet meals from high-end vending machines!

Immerse yourself in the city’s eclectic shopping districts, energetic nightlife, and rich cultural heritage for an unforgettable experience. This Tokyo travel guide will help you navigate the city like a pro, covering the best places to stay in Tokyo, where to eat in Tokyo, and what to do in Tokyo. 

Best Neighborhoods To Stay In Tokyo

Shibuya

Home to the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing, the city’s busiest intersection and a bucket-list spot. Shibuya is also artistic and hip, catering to a young, fashion-forward crowd. It is filled with delicious, inexpensive places to eat and charming record shops and small movie theaters.

Activities – Things to Do

• Real Life Mario Go-Karting—Live your Real-Life Mario Kart fantasy and explore Tokyo in a go-kart! Cross the city’s most iconic locations, such as Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing.
• Watch my experience here!
• Shibuya 109: Trendy shopping mall
• Mega Don Quijote: 24-hour, 7-floor shopping haven
• Nearby Neighborhoods: Shimokitazawa, Nakameguro, Daikanyama, Ebisu
• Shimokitazawa: Young & trendy bohemian neighborhood with vintage shopping & cute cafés
• Nakameguro: Hipster, laid-back area best known for seeing Japan’s cherry blossoms
• Meguro Sky Garden: Rooftop relaxation

Attractions – Things to See

• Hachiko Statue: Legendary Japanese dog statue (the corner of the scramble crossing)
• Meiji Jingu Park: Serene park around Meiji Shrine (perfect for leisurely strolls)
• Shibuya Crossing: World’s busiest pedestrian crossing
• Tip: For the best crossing views, head to Mag’s Park Rooftop, the Starbucks across the street, or Shibuya Sky
• Shibuya Sky: Observation deck with panoramic views
  • Tip: The sunset slot sells out very quickly, so get this way ahead of time!

Restaurants – Where to Eat & Drink

• Toritake: Yakitori
• About Life Coffee Brewers: Trendy & aesthetic coffee spot
• Pepper Parlor: Robot waiter experience
• Udon Shin: Homemade udon noodles
• Ichiran Ramen: Solo dining booth for Japan’s #1 Tonkotsu ramen

• Shibuya Sky: Rooftop drinks 
• Gyukatsu Motomura: Gyukatsu (deep-fried and breaded beef)

• Ebisu Yokocho: Lively & vibrant indoor atmosphere of restaurants and bars, similar to a food court
• Curry Spice Gelateria KALPASI: Colorful meals & homemade gelato 
• Shiro-Hige Cream Puff Factory: Totoro-shaped Cream Puff
• Hiroki: Okonomiyaki 
• Kokashita: Historic & trendy shopping arcade with restaurants 

Shinjuku

An energetic, bustling, and hectic area in Tokyo full of offices, pubs, restaurants, sky-scrapers, gardens, parks, and more. It has become a neon nightlife hotspot at night with izakaya (Japanese pubs) and its Kabukicho district for late-night adventures.

Activities – Things to Do

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden for a leisure walk among the city’s largest parks
• Shopping at Lumine Est Shinjuku
• Visit Pokemon and Nintendo Center
• Play Pachinko (Japan’s famous “slot machines”- not for real money)

Attractions – Things to See

• Gotokuji Temple: Known for its charming and numerous maneki-neko, or “beckoning cat,” figurines believed to bring good luck and fortune. Close to Shinjuku, visitors can explore the serene temple grounds, where hundreds of these cat statues adorn the area, creating a unique and picturesque atmosphere. 
• Cross Shinjuku Vision: Cross Shinjuku Vision is a prominent digital billboard located near Shinjuku Station, captivating passersby with its vivid and ever-changing displays of advertisements and artistic content. You will see the famous 3D Cat animation and other 3D billboards here.

Nightlife

• Enjoy singing in private karaoke booths available in both Shibuya and Shinjuku.
• Golden Gai Bar Hopping: Navigate through Shinjuku’s network of tiny eclectic bars, speakeasies, and themed bars.
  • Araku for a speakeasy bar covered in bills from around the world 
  • Champion Bar for a fun karaoke bar – pop a balloon & win what’s inside (I got sake shots)
• Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku: Explore the nightlife in Japan’s infamous Red Light District. 
• Kabukicho District – AKA: “Japan’s Red Light District”) 
• Shin Okubo – Korea Town
• Omoide Yokocho – which also goes by “memory lane” or “piss alley”  with tons of little stalls to dine (izakaya) 

Where to Shop & Eat

• Kagurazaka Ishikawa for a three-Michelin-Starred bucket-list kaiseki experience 
• Coco Ichibanya for curry 
• Mister Donut for breakfast or dessert
• Omoide Yokocho for a selection of izakayas and bars along a tiny alley
• Zao Fishing Restaurant for catching your own fish to eat 
• Tatsukichi  for anan omakase-style restaurant

Ginza

One of Tokyo’s most glamorous, high-end neighborhoods. The area is filled with luxe department stores that align with Ginza’s overall elegant vibe. In keeping with that theme, you’ll also find lots of high-end dining here: Michelin Stars and gourmet restaurants abound.

Activities – Things to Do

• Head to Chuo Dori Street for luxury shopping 
• Take a stroll around Ginza’s main shopping street
• Shop at the biggest Uniqlo and Muji Flagship stores
• Experience the art of Kabuki — traditional Japanese drama where highly skilled actors sing and dance in elaborate costumes and make-up — at the Kabukiza Theatre. 
• Peruse Ginza’s numerous world-class art museums, including the Shiseido Gallery, for contemporary art and dynamic exhibitions, and Ginza Maison Hermès, for a luxe, exceptionally chic art gallery/movie theater/high-end shopping moment. 
• TeamLab Tokyo: An immersive digital art museum in Koto City (close to Ginza) that combines cutting-edge technology with interactive art installations, offering visitors a mesmerizing and ever-changing experience in a world of digital wonder.
  • Tip: Get the first entry ticket to avoid the very big crowd

Where to Eat

• Tsukiji Outer Market: A bustling and lively marketplace and culinary hub renowned for its fresh seafood stalls and diverse sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese delicacies. Spend the morning sampling all the goods. There are even numerous shops selling kitchenware, snacks, and local products. Grab top-tier sushi at Tsukiji Itadori Bekkan for Tamagoyaki – Marutake, for wagyu skewers – Grilled Wagyu Beef, for sashimi – Maguroya Kurogin, for dessert – Soratsuki.
• Tsuru TonTan Udon or Sato Yosuke Ginza Inaiwa for Udon Noodles
• Ippudo Ginza for ramen
• Oreryu Shio-Ramen for one of Tokyo’s highest-rated tempura restaurants
• Higashiya Ginza for the homemade sweets, tea curation, and tea salon
• Ginza Kojyu for the two-Michelin-Star elevated Japanese tasting menu 
• Ginza Shabuki for the private, dimly lit signature all-you-can-eat shabu-shabu 
• Hakkoku for elevated sushi
• Star Bar for expertly crafted drinks at a world-renowned bar that uses three types of ice 
• Nissan Cafe for customized coffee art
• A Happy Pancake for delicious dessert pancakes
• Ginza Kimuraya for a selection of pastries from the bakery 
• Ginza Music Bar for cocktails

Minato & Roppongi

Minato is a bustling central hub, home to the famed Tokyo Tower, a red-and-white structure that resembles the Eiffel Tower. Within Minato, you’ll find Roppongi, a sophisticated neighborhood generally considered one of — if not the — best nightlife hubs in Tokyo. It’s also home to several of the city’s best art museums. Despite Roppongi’s high-end reputation, however, its culinary scene offers something for everyone and every budget. There are two major developments in Roppongi: Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown, where you’ll find various upscale restaurants, museums, high-end shops, hotels, and entertainment options, along with clubs and bars. 

Attractions – Things to See

• Tokyo Tower: This iconic landmark symbolizes the city’s modernity and resilience. With its distinctive orange and white lattice design, this communications and observation tower offers panoramic views of Tokyo and beyond.
• Mori Art Museum: unique local & contemporary art with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Tokyo skyline from its observation deck
  • Tip: Check their upcoming exhibitions prior to booking

Activities – Things to Do

• The National Art Center, a glass architectural marvel that exclusively shows temporary exhibitions
• The Suntory Museum of Art, which shows both ancient and modern art from several disciplines
• Visit the Tokyo Tower, an iconic landmark and observation tower with panoramic views of Tokyo and beyond.
• Visit Omotesando & Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku – a building with geometric-shaped mirrors on the ceiling (great photo op). Shop at Omotesando’s high-end fashion mall with upscale vintage shops
• Tokyo City View And Sky Deck – head to the rooftop for views of the city,
• Maidreamin’ Cafe is one of the most well-known maid cafe chains, with a unique blend of entertainment and hospitality. With waitresses dressed in maid costumes, the cafe offers a whimsical experience where guests can enjoy themed food and drinks with playful interactions.
  • Tip: Reserve online for the maid show

Where to Eat

• Butagumi- the tonkatsu restaurant’s deep-fried pork is legendary. 
• Japan’s famous pizza at Savoy Azabu-juban, which cooks its Neapolitan pies (plus other delights) in wood-fired ovens. 
• Pizza Studio Tamaki, where wood-fired pies are made with meticulously selected ingredients. 
• For a farm-to-table cocktail-tasting menu, Gen Yamamoto is a must.
• Shabu Shabu restaurant

Akihabara

The famous Anime district for anime-loving enthusiasts. Akihabara is the place to go to surround yourself with all things related to Japanese subcultures. Anime is pervasive, and a slate of arcades and electronics stores give the area a lively, fun, and playful vibe. And although it’s not in Akihabara, the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka is very much worth a visit. Even if you’ve never seen Spirited Away or other Studio Ghibli films, the museum is a special delight, sure to be among your trip highlights. Pro tip: get tickets in advance.

Exploring the anime-filled streets of Akihabara 

Activities – Things to Do

• Shop in manga and electronics stores
• Visit a thematic Maid Cafe in Akihabara
• Play vintage arcade video games at the Sega Building
• Visit Kanda Shrine
• Peruse the numerous electronics and games stores. 
• Read comics, watch movies, access the internet, and people watch at the area’s 24-hour manga cafés.

Where to Eat

• Manga cafés and Themed cafés. 
• Ramen stands 
• Micro Tea Cup Café is a brightly lit spot with lots of pink and puppies. Make reservations in advance.
• The famous Maiddreamin’ maid cafe – maids who dance and sing and serve “kawaii” (cute) looking food
• Ameyoko shopping district and marker
• The famous Owl Cafe
• Cat Cafe
• Grab dinner at Sushiro

Asakusa

Activities – Things to Do

• Visit the Kaminarimon Gate 
• Visit the Senso-ji Temple, a famous Buddhist temple (you can receive your fortune outside)
• Explore Nakamise Shopping Street for street food, local sweets and souvenir steels
• Shop for Japanese crafts and souvenirs down the Koen-dori street
• Views the Tokyo SkyTree – Japan’s tallest structure and previously the tallest tower in the world

Attractions – Things to See

• Kaminarimon Gate: One of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks and a significant cultural symbol. It is the outer gate of Senso-ji Temple, located in the Asakusa district. The gate is characterized by a large red lantern called “Chochin” that hangs under the center of the gate. → Cost: Free
• Senso-ji Temple: Senso-ji Temple, founded in 628 AD, is Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, featuring the iconic Kaminarimon Gate and a vibrant Nakamise-dori shopping street. Visitors can explore the main hall, make offerings, and experience the rich cultural heritage of this revered destination. → Cost: Free

Where to Eat

• Misojyu for miso soup & onigiri rice balls 
• Kura Sushi for revolving sushi
• Asakusa Kagetsudo for the bakery
• Pelican Cafe for sandwiches

Harajuku

Activities – Things to Do

• Takeshita Street for rainbow foods cosplay and fashion trends
• See Meiji Shrine & gardens
• Mipig Cafe: The first and only one in Japan where you can meet micro pigs. Similar to Mameshiba Cafe, a ticket will allow you to interact with the micro pigs. They also offer the option of booking private rooms in sessions of 30 minutes, up to 1h30 minutes.
• Harajuku for trendy shopping around the area

Where to Eat

• Totti Candy Factory for the famous jumbo rainbow cotton candy 
• Rainbow Grilled Cheese
• Strawberry Delight for candy strawberries 
• Afuri Ramen for ramen
• Harajuku Gyozaro for a plate of Gyozas
• Menchirashi for Udon
• Spontini Cascade for pizza
• Dotcom Space for breakfast case
• I’m donut? for dessert donuts
• Marion Crepes for the famous crepes
• Number Sugar for dessert coffee
• Eiswelt Gelato for animal-shaped gelato 

Odaiba

Also known as Tokyo’s entertainment island, Odaiba is a futuristic district with shopping, games, malls, views, and dining.

Activities – Things to Do

• River Cruise 
• DiverCity Mall – view the stature and rainbow stairs out front
• VR Park
• AquaCity Mall 
• Decks Mall 
• Rainbow Bridge – walk across or view it

An Overview: Top Places for Shopping and Markets

• Shibuya 109: Discover the latest trends at this iconic fashion mall.
• Ginza Chuo Dori Street: Indulge in luxury shopping at high-end boutiques.
• Ameyoko Shopping Street: Experience the bustling market atmosphere.
• Thrift Shopping in Shimokitazawa: Discover unique finds at New York Joe Exchange and other local thrift stores.
• Record Hunting at Pianola Records: Dig for vinyl treasures in this music lover’s haven.
• Shop for souvenirs and snacks on Nakamise Shopping Street.
• Omotesando: Shop at high-end fashion malls and upscale vintage shops.
• Harajuku’s Takeshita Street: Explore unique fashion trends, including Rainbow Grilled Cheese and mega cotton candy, and visit the serene Meiji Shrine nearby.
• Odaiba’s DiverCity: Enjoy a variety of shopping and entertainment options in this futuristic district.

Here’s a List of The Best Places To Stay in Tokyo’s Top Neighborhoods:

Shibuya

• Trunk Hotel – boutique hotel combining urban tranquility & modern minimalism (wellness vibe)
• Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel – Book Here – stunning city views & modern amenities

Shinjuku

• Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo – Vibrant, stylish, top-tier concierge

Nihonbashi

• Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo – sleek sophistication & stylish amenities with views of Tokyo’s skyline 

Roppongi

• The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon – panoramic views of Tokyo’s skyline with a chic modern design & stylish accommodations with seasonal art and culture exhibitions
• The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo – situated in Tokyo’s tallest building, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days & surrounded by a lively, upscale neighborhood with sushi-making classes & traditional tea ceremonies

Otemachi

• Hoshinoya Tokyo – a modern luxury ryokan-style hotel blending traditional Japanese hospitality & contemporary design with tea ceremonies & kaiseki dining with tatami-mat rooms 

Chiyoda

• The Peninsula Tokyo –  world-class dining, luxurious rooms, & excellent location near the Imperial Palace with tea ceremonies & kimono fittings

Otemachi

• Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi – elegant with luxurious accommodations & great central location

Asakusa

• The Capitol Hotel Tokyu – Japanese aesthetics & modern luxury luxurious with a prime location near the Imperial Palace & city center with tea ceremonies & ikebana (flower arranging) classes

Shinbashi

• Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills – blends modern luxury design with elements of Japanese art & culture with sake tastings, calligraphy classes, & traditional tea ceremonies.

→ Reach out to me for PERKS for your hotel stay!

 Exclusive Perks May Include:

• $100-$300 Hotel Credit 
• Free Daily Breakfast for 2
• Priority for Free Room Upgrade (subject to availability)
• Early check-in, late check-out (subject to availability)
• Free fruit, bottled water, snacks, cheese plate
• Free champagne or alcohol of choice
• Airport Transfer
• Free Massage
• VIP Greeting

Best Times to Visit

Japan welcomes you year-round with its pleasant weather, but for the full bloom of culture, visit in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). These seasons offer mild weather, making it perfect for exploring outdoor sites and participating in festivals. 

Spring – March to May

• Peak cherry blossom (sakura) viewing, especially in early April
• Enjoy hanami (flower viewing) parties and seasonal treats
• Mild weather is ideal for outdoor exploration

Summer – June to August

• Attend vibrant festivals like the Asakusa Samba Carnival, Sumida River Fireworks Festival, and Tanabata (Star Festival)
• Enjoy summer kaiseki meals
• Experience grand fireworks displays and bustling food stalls
• Warm and humid; pack lightweight clothing

Autumn – September to November

• Enjoy cooler temperatures and watch landscapes transform with vibrant autumn leaves
• Ideal weather for hiking and visiting parks and temples (like Shinjuku Gyoen & Meiji Jingu Gaien)
• Fewer tourists than spring, allowing for a more relaxed visit
• Experience cultural experiences such as moon-viewing events (tsukimi) and tea ceremonies featuring seasonal treats

Winter – December to February

• Experience traditional and vibrant Japanese New Year celebrations (shogatsu) in late December and early January, with activities like hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year) at places like Meiji Shrine and Senso-ji Temple.
• Ideal for warming up with onsen (hot spring baths) and enjoying seasonal cuisine like osechi ryori (New Year’s food).
• Experience dazzling light displays at Tokyo’s Roppongi Hills, creating a magical winter atmosphere.
• During winter, enjoy ice skating at outdoor rinks set up in various city parks and shopping centers, such as Tokyo Midtown.

Top Winter Activities Outside of Tokyo: 

• Visit the Snow Monkeys in Jigokudani at Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano to see Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) relaxing in hot springs
• Enjoy Skiing & Snowboarding in Hokkaido (Niseko, Furano) and Nagano (Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen) with breathtaking mountain views.
• Relax in Natural Hot Springs (Onsen) in Hakone, Beppu, and Kusatsu.
• Attend Winter Festivals such as the Sapporo Snow Festival in Hokkaido, where you can admire enormous ice sculptures (February)

The ideal length of stay: 5-7 days is ideal to get a thorough taste of all Tokyo offers, but if the city is one stop on a longer Japan trip, you can get by with three solid days!

Tokyo Travel Guide – Bonus Tips

• Check out my favorite travel essentials here!
• Dress in comfy walking clothes like these!
• Bring a great camera to capture your memories!

• When you ask me where to eat in Tokyo you probably don’t expect me to say 7/11 but believe me when I say you have to experience the quality of their food! 
• Stock up on facial products at Don Quixote 

• Don’t leave without trying soba noodles, ramen, udon noodles, yakitori, kaisaki, sukiyaki, and sushi (of course!)
• Download a translation app that is especially useful outside central Tokyo
• Carry a bilingual map to help when asking locals for directions

Important Information to Know

• Public Transport System: very clean, safe, and highly efficient; above-ground (Japan Rail East) and underground (the Tokyo Metro, Toei Transportation)
  • If you’re checking out the main spots, you can mostly walk or easily get a taxi (or Uber)
• Airports: Haneda Airport (HND), Narita International Airport (NRT)
• Currency: ¥, Japanese yen (JPY)
• Language: Japanese but English is widely spoken
• Signature dishes: sushi & sashimi, yaki-tori (grilled chicken or veggie skewers), ramen, tempura, tonkatsu (breaded and deep-fried pork), shabu-shabu (beef hot pot)
• Key phrases: konnichiwa (kohn-nee-chee-wah, hello), arigatou gozaimasu (ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zah-ee-mahs, thank you), sumimasen (soo-mee-mah-sen, excuse me/pardon me), kudasai (koo-dah-sigh, please)

Plan Your Next Adventure With Adventures By Sky

Feeling inspired by this Tokyo travel guide? Book your Tokyo trip with Adventures By Sky and I’ll build you a personalized itinerary and help you unlock exclusive perks! As someone who has visited Tokyo many times, I love sharing my well-tested tips on  what to do in Tokyo!