Kiyosumi Garden, Tokyo | Image credit: MarySloA/Flickr
Tokyo rightfully deserves a spot on every first-time visitor’s Japan itinerary. As the epicentre of technology, culinary excellence, anime and manga culture, high fashion, and entertainment, Tokyo promises a thrilling yet potentially overwhelming adventure. To fully enjoy this dynamic metropolis in 2025, it’s essential to plan strategically. Let’s uncover the must-visit places and attractions for sightseeing, food, nightlife, and more in Tokyo, which will help you maximise your time while minimising the stress of navigating this sprawling urban wonderland.
Also read | A Guide On What To Do In Tokyo: Your First Time Vs. Your Second Time
The best time to visit Tokyo
Cherry Blossom in Tokyo | Image credit: Humanoid one, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Tokyo is exciting all year round, depending on the experiences you’re seeking. Spring and autumn are popular seasons to visit Tokyo, but they also have disadvantages, such as over-tourism and expensive flights and hotels.
Summer is brutally hot and humid in Tokyo, but the perks are fewer tourists and plenty of fireworks festivals to enjoy. Although Tokyo is chilly in winter, it’s worth the trip if you like Christmas markets, indoor hot springs, and winter illuminations (especially around Tokyo Skytree, Ginza, Roppongi, Shibuya, and Marunochi).
The best part about visiting Tokyo is that there’s always something happening. Whether it’s events, concerts, music gigs, art installations, or creative workshops, this city is full of life! Read on to discover all the must-visit places, ensuring you don’t miss any of the new and classic attractions for your Tokyo itinerary.
Book your stay at Westin Tokyo via Agoda
Book your stay at Westin Tokyo via Booking.com
Tokyo’s latest gems: Must-visit new places in 2025
Harajuku Quest: This aesthetic complex in Shibuya will open in spring 2025 and feature cafes, boutique shops, restaurants, and small-scale exhibitions.
Senkyaku Banrai: This shopping complex will transport you back to the Edo period. Featuring restaurants, hot springs, and traditional Japanese townscapes, visitors can immerse themselves in the era’s rich history.
TeamLab expansion in Toyosu: Starting January 22, TeamLab Planets in Toyosu will unveil a large-scale expansion. New art installations and attractions, including Future Park and Athletic Forest, will be available for visitors to explore.
Ginza Sony Park: This open-space park includes art installations, live music performances, pop-up exhibits, and experiences featuring Sony gadgets.
Must-visit temples and shrines in Tokyo
Sensoji Temple | Image credit: RW Sinclair/Flickr
Gōtokuji Temple in Gotokuji: Located in Setagaya Ward, the temple is believed to be the birthplace of Maneki-Neko or ‘beckoning cat’.
Meiji Jingu Shrine in Harajuku: a Shinto shrine dedicated to the late Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. The shrine is surrounded by lush greenery and is the perfect place to escape Tokyo’s busy life.
Sensoji Temple in Asakusa: One of the oldest temples in Asakusa and a popular landmark among tourists.
Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku: A popular Shinto shrine surrounded by cedar trees. Performing artists, actors, musicians, and entertainers come here to pray for successful careers.
Kanda Myojin Shrine in Kanda: Businessmen pray for good fortune and prosperity.
Tokyo’s must-visit parks and traditional gardens
Yoyogi Park | Image credit: clio1789/Flickr
Yoyogi Park: One of the largest parks in Tokyo, it is perfect for picnics and cherry blossom viewing.
Kiba Park: Located in Koto City, this expansive park is ideal for hosting barbecues, enjoying sunny picnics, and featuring dog parks.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: This clean and well-maintained park is perfect for strolls and hanami parties.
Kiyosumi Gardens: A beautiful traditional Japanese garden with serene lakes and charming teahouses.
Hamarikyu Garden: A large garden dedicated to greenery featuring seawater ponds and traditional Japanese architecture.
Also read | Go Forest Bathing In Japan, From Bamboo Groves To Enchanting Woods
Places to visit in Tokyo: Museums and historical sites
Tokyo National Museum | Image credit: hiromy/Flickr
Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park: This is one of Tokyo’s oldest and largest museums, featuring many historical Japanese artefacts, art collections, and installations.
The National Art Center in Roppongi is a must-visit art hub for those who appreciate photography, fashion, and contemporary art. It hosts rotating exhibitions.
Mori Art Museum in Roppongi: Located on the 53rd floor of Roppongi Hills, the Mori Art Museum offers stunning views of Tokyo’s skyline, visual art installations and cultural performances.
Samurai Museum in Shinjuku: This interactive exhibit is perfect for anyone interested in samurai history and culture.
Tokyo’s iconic landmark attractions
Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree | Image credit: Manish Prabhune/Flickr
Shibuya Sky: Located atop the Shibuya Scramble Square building, this observation deck offers guests a breathtaking panoramic view of Tokyo.
Shibuya Scramble Crossing: This world-famous intersection is outside Shibuya Station, where thousands of people cross daily.
Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower: These iconic landmarks provide stunning city views and are great places to shop for last-minute souvenirs.
Hachikō Memorial Statue: This bronze statue commemorates Hachikō, an Akita known for his unwavering loyalty to his deceased owner. Today, it is a popular meeting point and photo spot in Tokyo.
Rainbow Bridge: This bridge connects Shibaura Pier to the Minato district. You can enjoy its beautiful lights from Odaiba or Tokyo Bay at night.
Shopping places to visit in Tokyo
Ginza Chuo-Dori | Image credit: camknows/Flickr
From shopping for designer goods to thrifting for vintage items, Tokyo is a paradise for shoppers. Some of the best places to visit in Tokyo for shopping are:
For thrifting clothes, books, and vintage items, visit Shimokitazawa, Koenji, Jinbocho, and Ueno.
For Japanese makeup and skincare products, visit Shin-Okubo, @cosme Tokyo in Shibuya, Hands, Loft, Fruit Gathering, Skinholic, and Ginza Mitsukoshi.
For anime, kawaii fashion, and character goods, visit Nakano Broadway, Sunshine City, Animate in Ikebukuro, Akihabara, Takeshita Street in Harajuku, Character Street inside Tokyo Station, and Surugaya.
Visit Omotesando, Ginza Chuo-Dori, Roppongi Hills, Kitte Ma, and Tokyo Midtown for the best shopping streets for luxury fashion and beauty.
Some of the best malls to visit in Tokyo are Ginza Six, Diver City Tokyo Plaza, Tokyo Solamachi, Shibuya 109, Shinjuku Takashimaya Times Square, Lala Port Toyosu, and Shibuya Parco.
Visit 100 and 300 Yen stores like Daiso, Can Do, Three Coins, and Seria.
Find cutesy stationery and miscellaneous goods at Loft, Bumpodo, Itoya, and Hands.
Keep our Tokyo shopping guide handy to navigate the retail scene like a pro.
Book your stay at Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, via Agoda
Book your stay at Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, via Booking.com
Top restaurants in Tokyo
Tokyo is a paradise for food lovers. You can find almost every type of cuisine in the world here, and the best part is that the flavours and authenticity are on point!
Visit Saizeriya and Popolamama when craving delicious and affordable Italian cuisine.
If you’ve never tried Japanese curry and rice, visit Coco Ichibanya. Your tastebuds will be in for a treat!
Sushiro, Kura Sushi, and Hama Sushi are some of the best Sushi restaurants in Tokyo.
A comforting bowl of ramen from Ichiran and Ippudo is perfect after a long, tiring day.
After tasting MOS Burger, Lotteria, Freshness Burger, and Dom Dom Hamburgers, you’ll never want to go to other burger chains again.
If you’re looking for vegan restaurants in Tokyo, head to T’s Tantan at Ueno Station for delicious ramen made with vegetables in a rich broth. We Are The Farm in Toyosu, and Mr Farmer in Shibuya also offer a variety of vegan dishes featuring fresh, seasonal vegetables.
For international cuisine, try To the Herbs in Shibuya, where you can savour the Pizza Capriccio and the Cod Roe Cream Carbonara pasta.
If you’re in the mood for gourmet seafood, make a reservation at CEDROS. We highly recommend the soft-shell crab tempura, seared tuna steak, and truffle miso lobster risotto.
Among the many fantastic Indian restaurants in Tokyo, we recommend Erick South Yaesu, located at Tokyo Station. They offer authentic and well-balanced Indian meals that will satisfy your appetite.
Book your stay at Aman Tokyo via Trip.com
Nightlife in Tokyo
Although most shopping streets and malls in Tokyo close by 10 pm, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the nightlife. If you want to dance the night away, consider visiting WOMB, Atom, and Forestlimit in Shibuya, Space in Shinjuku, and Clubasia in Shibuya.
Housed in a nine-story building, Grand Hammer is a new nightlife destination focusing on music, entertainment, Japanese cultural events, and leisure. It provides customers with a unique dining experience combined with elements of Japanese culture. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere with jazzy beats, try hanging out at Hachigatsu no Kujira (The Whales of August), Bonobo, Trunk, or Aoyama Hachi, all located in Shibuya.
Book your stay at Bellustar Tokyo via Agoda
Book your stay at Bellustar Tokyo via Booking.com
For those who enjoy quieter evening activities, consider taking in the panoramic views of Tokyo from the Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower. Lalaport in Toyosu and Odaiba Seaside Park also offer beautiful views of the calm sea. Additionally, many temples and shrines remain open until midnight, perfect for peaceful evening visits and night photography!
Top-rated hotels in Tokyo
While there is no shortage of hotels in Tokyo, and you can find one for every budget and theme, some of the most luxurious and highly-rated hotels in the city include Trunk (House) Tokyo, Westin Tokyo, Mandarin Oriental, Aman Tokyo, Bulgari Hotel Tokyo, and Bellustar Tokyo, a Pan Pacific Hotel.
Book your stay at Bulgari Hotel Tokyo via Agoda
Book your stay at Bulgari Hotel Tokyo via Booking.com
Insider tips to follow while visiting Tokyo
Lucky cats at Gotokuji Temple | Image credit: Stephen Kelly/Flickr
Always travel with a Suica or Pasmo IC card to access trains, buses, bike rentals, and vending machines.
Use Google Translate and Google Maps to find routes and navigate around Tokyo.
Buy a small coin pouch to carry loose change.
Avoid travelling during rush hour by not taking trains and buses from 7:30 am to 10 am and 5 pm to 7 pm.
Taxi travel can be expensive; consider using trains, bicycle rentals, or buses as more affordable options.
Be prepared to walk at least 5,000 to 10,000 steps a day. Invest in a comfortable pair of sports shoes.
When using escalators in malls or subways, stand on the left side if you’re not in a rush. If you are in a hurry, use the right side.
Avoid tipping at restaurants or when using public transport services.
Many local restaurants and shops do not accept card payments, so always carry cash or consider opening a PayPay account.
Learning a few key Japanese phrases will enhance your travel experience.
When driving or riding, avoid honking the horn unless it’s an emergency.
Carry your passport while shopping to take advantage of tax-free benefits.
Especially on weekdays, avoid speaking loudly on trains and buses.
Do not litter on the streets; carry your rubbish until you find a bin.
7-Eleven ATMs accept international credit and debit cards.
Make reservations in advance for teamLabs, the Pokémon Cafe, the Kirby Cafe, and the Ghibli Museum, as spots fill up quickly.
(Feature image credit: MarySloA/Flickr)
Related | Go Beyond The Tourist Trail To Savour The Experiences You Can Only Get In Japan
Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Are there any free attractions in Tokyo?
From green spaces like Yoyogi Park and the Imperial Palace East Gardens to viewing Tokyo’s skyline from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory, there are plenty of free attractions in Tokyo.
How can I travel around Tokyo?
Using prepaid cards like Suica and Pasmo, tourists can travel seamlessly around Tokyo by bus, taxi, train, and rental bikes. These cards can be purchased at international airports like Haneda and Narita.
Where can I experience Tokyo’s modern art and culture?
To experience Tokyo’s take on modern art and culture, visit the Mori Art Museum, The Museum of Contemporary Art, The National National Museum of Modern Art, and teamLabs Planets.
What are the best day trips from Tokyo?
The best day trips about an hour away from Tokyo are Kamakura, Enoshima, Nikko, Hakone, Kawaguchiko, Kawagoe, and Yokohama. Since most stores and restaurants in the countryside shut at 6-7 pm, we recommend leaving early morning from Tokyo.
What are the best traditional Japanese gardens to visit in Tokyo?
Some of the prettiest traditional Japanese gardens to visit in Tokyo are Hamarikyu Garden, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Kiyosumi Garden, and Rikugien.
What are the best places to visit Tokyo for adventure?
The best places for adventure junkies in Tokyo are Tokyo Joypolis, Tokyo Mystery Circus, Flystation Japan, Musashi Ninja Clan and Ninja Wire Action Experience.
What are the best movie shooting locations in Tokyo to visit?
If you’ve watched ‘Lost in Translation’, visit Shibuya Crossing and the Park Hyatt. Some iconic scenes from ‘The Fast & The Furious: Tokyo Drift’ were shot at Ebisu Circuit, Shinjuku, Shibuya Crossing, and Roppongi Districts. You can spot some scenes from ‘Kill Bill: Vol. 1’ at the restaurant Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu in Tokyo.
Written By
Sharon Alphonso
Sharon is from Mumbai and currently lives in Tokyo with her Japanese husband. Before moving to Japan, ..Read Moreshe worked with POPxo, Grazia and MTV India. She now writes for several English magazines in Japan, including Savvy Tokyo, Tokyo Weekender, and GoConnect Japan. Her favourite way to unwind is to listen to lo-fi music while reading a book and sipping on a matcha latte. Read Less
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