There is so much to see and do in Tokyo finding the perfect way to spend your time can be overwhelming. Check out our list of things we think are actually worth spending your money and time on.
Tsukiji Fish Market
Tsukiji Fish Market is all over our FYPs so we had to check it out. Now will it be the best fish you even eat? No. But it’s a great way to get an introduction to Japanese food all in one place.
Some things to know:
- Some stalls won’t let you stand outside and eat, and very little have seating areas.
- There’s no bins and stalls won’t let you put rubbish from other market stalls in their bins, so bring your rubbish bag!
- Most places did only accept cash/ preferred cash so bring coins and smaller note sif you’re going early
Some of the foods we tried out:
Sinso-Ji Temple Area
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district, the Senso-ji Temple area offers a vibrant blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern attractions. As Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji is a significant spiritual site, drawing millions of visitors annually.
Some things to know:
- Spend about an hour exploring this place
- Get there early to avoid crowds – especially on the weekends
- No eating or drinking in the area around the temples and no bins anywhere -0 be careful buying things as there is lots of shops and stalls in the vicinity
- Souvenir shops in the area
- Bring some change as can get fortune read and also buy things from the temple
Visit a quirky cafe
Tokyo is famous for its eclectic dining scene, and quirky cafes are at the forefront of this charm. These unique establishments offer more than just coffee and pastries; they provide an experience that’s sure to delight any visitor.
From everything to Maid Cafes, to Pokemon themed cafes to a Vampire Café in Ginza. We personally visited HATCOFFEE and thought it was great.
Make sure to do some research on where you want to go and book ahead because these places get super busy.
Team Lab Planets
TeamLab Planets is an intriguing spot that initially seemed overhyped, but it turned out to be worth the visit. Located outside the city and accessible from Ginza station, it’s a fantastic place for photos, especially if you arrive early—our 9 AM booking (made a month in advance) helped us beat the crowds.
The museum features some of the best interactive art we’ve encountered, making it enjoyable for all ages. However, if you’re short on time, you might consider skipping it, as there’s not much else in the area. The cost is around €23 per person.
Visit an Izakaya
Izakayas, Japan’s beloved pubs, are informal eateries where friends and colleagues gather to unwind and enjoy a wide array of food and drinks. These cosy establishments offer a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for socialising over shared plates of delicious Japanese tapas-like dishes, such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), sashimi, and tempura.
They’re great because they usually have an ipad ordering system (with pictures). Which makes it easy to order and the prices are usually quite reasonable.
We ate at Kakekomi Gyoka in Shinjuku and the food was pretty good.
Thrift shopping at Shimokitazawa district of Tokyo
If you’re a fan of vintage shopping, you need to check out the Chimokitazawa district of Tokyo. Don’t expect super cheap prices, but there are some very cool pieces here and the area itself is really different.
Drink at a secret Speakeasy
Tokyo’s Speakeasy scene could be one of Japan’s best kept secret. Their are so many cool spots located around the city which could add a little something different to your Tokyo itinirary.
Check out Janai Coffee, a unique establishment that combines the allure of a secret bar with a cozy coffee shop atmosphere.
Explore the many areas of Tokyo
- Shibuya is famous for its iconic scramble crossing and vibrant youth culture, making it a hub for shopping, dining, and nightlife. Just a stone’s throw away.
- Harajuku captivates with its quirky fashion boutiques, trendy cafés, and the serene Meiji Shrine, providing a perfect contrast between modernity and tradition.
- Asakusa is home to the historic Senso-ji Temple and traditional markets, where visitors can savor local snacks and shop for souvenirs.
- Shinjuku boasts a dynamic nightlife scene, with towering skyscrapers, lush parks, and an array of entertainment options.
- Akihabara is a paradise for tech enthusiasts and anime fans, filled with electronics shops, manga stores, and themed cafés.
- Ueno features beautiful parks, museums, and a zoo, perfect for leisurely exploration. Each area offers its own unique experiences, making Tokyo a city that continually surprises and delights.
Visit Kappabashi Street: Tokyo's Kitchenware Paradise
Kappabashi Street, or “Kitchen Town,” is Tokyo’s culinary hub, renowned for its extensive selection of kitchenware and restaurant supplies. Located between Ueno and Asakusa, this street is a haven for cooking enthusiasts, offering an impressive array of Japanese knives known for their craftsmanship and precision.
Shops like Kappabashi Kinsai feature everything from traditional sushi knives to versatile chef’s knives, making it the perfect destination for those seeking high-quality tools.
Cook your own dinner at a GyuKatsu Restaurant
Visit one of Tokyo's many arcade rooms
If you find yourself wandering around Tokyo, you’ve got to check out the arcades. From classic games to the latest high-tech experiences, these lively spots are packed with colorful lights and excited gamers, and you’ll find them on just about every street. Head to Akihabara for some of the biggest arcades, like Club Sega and Taito Station, where you can dive into everything from claw machines to retro games. Shibuya and Shinjuku also have plenty of arcades, with Game Panic and Round1 offering a mix of fun and competition.
Save your coins because you’ll want to try it all!
Explore the gaming hubs of Tokyo
If you’re into gaming in any form, you will need to visit Akihabara and Nakano Broadway. Matthew was having an absolute freaker in this area and it was really cool and nostalgic to see all the history associated with the industry.
Here you’ll find shops packed with vintage video games, consoles, and collectables that appeal to both casual gamers and serious collectors. Super Potato in Akihabara is particularly well-known for its extensive selection of classic games and systems, while Card Kingdom offers a great variety of trading cards, including Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering.
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