Best Things To Do in Tokyo – Top Attractions and Activities For Your First Trip

Looking for the best things to do in Tokyo? We’re featuring some of the top tourist attractions and must-do activities for your first Tokyo trip!

Tokyo’s the kind of city that keeps you curious. One minute you’re wandering ancient temples, the next you’re gliding through digital art or slurping ramen at a smoky izakaya.

For first-time visitors, the possibilities are endless.

To smoothly transition between these incredibly different experiences, I highly recommend these useful Japanese travel apps on your phone.

I’ve visited Tokyo twice for over a week each time across different neighborhoods, and I’ve narrowed it down to these places to visit in Tokyo that’s perfect for your first trip.

These Tokyo attractions and activities hit all the right notes and cover everything from pop culture to quiet parks to full-on food adventures.

The Best Things To Do in Tokyo, Japan

Here are some of the best things to do in Tokyo that’s I’ve done and loved, in alphabetical order.

Cherry Blossom (Sakura) Season

If you are visiting in late March or early April, seeing the cherry blossoms in Tokyo is the number one thing you must do.

The entire city transforms into a pink wonderland, and it is truly magical. I got very lucky to see them even though I arrived Tokyo on the second week of March so I highly recommend coming earlier.

There are so many parks and riversides to choose from, but some are definitely better than others depending on the vibe you want.

I have narrowed down the top places for picnics, boat rides, and iconic views on my guide to the Best Tokyo Cherry Blossom Spots.

Ghibli Museum

The Ghibli Museum in Mitaka felt like stepping into a fairytale.

I snagged tickets online (need to book early because they sell out fast) and wandered through storybook-style rooms, animation sketches and a cozy theater showing Ghibli shorts you can’t see anywhere else.

The whole place was designed by Hayao Miyazaki himself, and yep, there’s a giant Totoro waiting to greet you at the front.

Nearest subway station: Mitaka Station

Godzilla

If you love monsters and movie lore, Tokyo’s Godzilla spots are a blast. I stopped by Godzilla Road in Shinjuku to see the roaring Godzilla head towering over the building. And yes, it roars.

Then in Ginza, you can get a photo with the statue outside Toho Cinemas, the studio behind the franchise. Just cool, nostalgic fun and super easy to find.

Nearest subway station: Seibu-Shinjuku Station & Ginza Station

Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace’s East Gardens were way quieter than I expected for central Tokyo. It’s built on the site of Edo Castle, and wandering among moats, stone walls and lush greenery felt like a time warp.

A great spot for cherry blossoms in the spring. Perfect if you love history or just need a breather from the city buzz.

Nearest subway station: Otemachi Station & Tokyo Station

Kyoto-style Kaiseki

Kaiseki is Japan’s haute cuisine that originated in Kyoto. But if you’re not visiting Kyoto on your trip, Tokyo’s top chefs celebrate this Kyoto culinary tradition with seasonal flair. Some spots even have Michelin recognition or Gault Millau recognition.

Travelling Foodie Tip: Use some of these dining and travel apps for Japan in finding a chef that prepares this traditional meal in Tokyo.

When I stayed at Park Hotel Tokyo, I had a traditional kaiseki dinner at Hanasanshou, one of the best restaurants in Tokyo, located in Minato by Shiodome Station.

Paired with sake from Tochigi Prefecture, the dinner unfolded in beautifully crafted courses: sashimi, cherry salmon, lily bulb bun, seasonal tempura, simmered beef rice, and finally dessert.

For drinks, I paired it with Senkin sake from Tochigi Prefecture and a sweet potato-based dessert cocktail that was creamy, cold, and surprisingly not too sweet

Omoide Yokocho

Known as Piss Alley, Omoide Yokocho was like stepping into Tokyo’s smoky past. Tucked right in Shinjuku by the subway station, it’s a narrow alley of tiny izakayas, sizzling yakitori and post-work conversations.

Gritty, warm and a must-do after sunset. I went on a Friday night, and it was packed and hard to navigate! The alley was bustling and buzzing, filled with tourists and locals.

Nearest subway station: Shinjuku Station

Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo

Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo is pure fun, especially if you grew up on Pikachu and Charmander. Located inside Sunshine City in Ikebukuro, it’s packed with exclusive merch, plushies and gaming stations.

Opened in 2014, it’s the largest not just in Japan, but the world. I found rare collectibles and totally geeked out. Great spot for kids, fans or anyone needing a dose of nostalgia.

Nearest subway station: Ikebukuro Station

Sensoji Temple

Sensoji Temple in Asakusa is Tokyo’s oldest temple and totally iconic. I walked through Kaminarimon Gate when it was pouring rain, but it was still packed with people.

Between the incense, lanterns and omikuji fortunes, it felt alive with tradition. The shopping street outside is great for souvenirs and street snacks. You’ll leave with photos, and good luck.

Nearest subway station: Asakusa Station

Shiba Park

When I stayed in Shiba neighborhood at Shiba Park Hotel, I wandered into Shiba Park and instantly got that classic Tokyo Tower shot framed by cherry blossoms.

Opened in 1873, it’s one of Japan’s oldest public parks and surprisingly peaceful.

If you’re visiting in spring, pack a picnic. It’s also home to Zojoji Temple, so you get a double dose of history and chill.

Nearest subway station: Onarimon Station

Shibuya Scramble Crossing

One of the most iconic things to do in Tokyo is in Shibuya.

Shibuya Scramble is wild, in the best way! I stood on the corner, waited for the lights, and boom: hundreds of people weaving past each other while massive screens flashed overhead.

I saw it in the afternoon and at night, and it’s nice to see how the scene changes. Go at dusk when the lights hit and everything feels cinematic.

Nearest subway station: Shibuya Station

Street Go-Kart Racing

Street Kart Go-Kart Racing Tour was hands-down one of the wildest Tokyo activities I did.

I dressed up as Stitch (because I love the character), got my international license and zipped through real city streets with a group of go-karts.

Real Life "MARIO KART" Street Go-Kart Tour in Japan! Tokyo Go-Kart!

We passed iconic spots like Tokyo Tower near Shiba and Shibuya‘s Scramble Crossing. People waved, snapped photos and it honestly felt like being in a video game.

Nearest subway stations: Akihabara Station / Asakusa Station / Shinagawa Station / Shin-Kaba Station

Sushi-Making Class

Sushi Nigiri Tokyo is a sushi-making class hosted at Reiwa Academy Club. I was able to do the class for free during my stay at Sakura Hotel Ikebukuro as part of a limited offer.

And wow, what an experience! Upon arrival, I got to choose a kimono (went with black for a sleek look), then learned about sushi history and techniques through a demo and presentation by Chef Hide.

Rolling sushi and crafting nigiri was hands-on, fun and surprisingly therapeutic. The best part? Getting to eat our creations afterward.

Nearest subway station: Shimbashi Station

teamLab Planets

TeamLab Planets in Toyosu was like entering another universe. This digital art museum transforms you into part of the exhibit.

With areas themed around Water, Forest, Garden, and Open Air, it’s an interactive sensory wonderland.

Picture walking through knee-high waterfalls, catching virtual animals via an app, bouncing across giant spheres, and standing among mirrored floral landscapes.

Trust me, don’t rush to film everything when you first enter rooms. Take it in first. The wow moments are constant.

Nearest subway station: Shin-Toyosu Station

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

This is the best panoramic views of Tokyo.

And it’s free!

I rode up to the 45th floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku and lucked out with a clear views of the city.

The building itself is a 1991 Kenzo Tange design with serious presence. Morning or sunset is prime time for photos.

And there’s a free light-mapping show at night too!

Nearest subway station: Tochomae Station

Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower is vintage cool. Built in 1958, it’s still one of Tokyo’s most recognizable landmarks.

At night, the tower glows orange and makes for dreamy photos. It’s close to temples and parks (like Shiba Park and Zōjō-ji Temple in Shiba) too.

Nearest subway station: Akabanebashi Station

Tsukiji Market

Even though the wholesale market moved, Tsukiji Outer Market still rocks.

You can eat your way in this market for traditional Japanese food like tamagoyaki, grilled scallops and fresh tuna sashimi from open-air stalls.

It’s busy, but the locals know their stuff, and a fun way to try a lot of different street food in one spot.

I enjoyed a sushi omakase at one of the best restaurants in Tokyo in this market.

Nearest subway station: Tsukiji Station / Higashi-Ginza Station

Yoyogi Park

Yoyogi Park is where Shibuya unwinds. Right next to Meiji Shrine, it’s a massive green space filled with dogs, dancers, picnickers and random jam sessions.

I walked around the park and watched the city do its thing. And I also went sakura spotting here.

Nearest subway station: Harajuku Station

Whether you’re chasing Tokyo attractions like temples and towers or trying hands-on Tokyo activities like sushi-making and street karting, this bustling metropolitan got layers you’ll keep uncovering.

These are some of the best things to do in Tokyo, and I hope they help shape your itinerary.

If you want to dive deeper into local neighborhoods or build a day-by-day Tokyo travel guide around these picks, I’ve got you covered.

As always, happy travels and eating!