Places to visit in Tokyo

Ginza is one of the poshest, most upmarket places to visit in Tokyo, with an abundance of shops, restaurants, boutiques, lifestyle experiences and much more. You can also explore galleries, nightclubs and cafes for a wholesome experience that will make your visit to Tokyo memorable.

This stunning garden located in the city is one of the most interesting places to visit in Tokyo, because of its natural beauty and rich history. The garden was built in 1906 as part of the property belonging to a feudal lord from the Edo era. After many years, it was turned into a national garden, open to the public and boasting of three distinct styles in its construction – the Japanese Traditional Garden, the formal garden and the landscape garden.

Harajuku Station stands as an iconic landmark in Tokyo's vibrant Harajuku district. Serving as a gateway to one of Japan's fashion and youth culture hubs, it welcomes throngs of visitors daily. The station's distinctive design mirrors the area's eclectic energy, making it a must-see stop for travelers exploring Tokyo.

Street Kart Tokyo Bay offers an exhilarating and unique way to explore the vibrant streets of Tokyo. Participants don costumes and hop into colorful go-karts, transforming into real-life Mario Kart characters as they zip through the city's iconic landmarks. With routes passing by Tokyo Bay, Rainbow Bridge, and Odaiba, adventurers can enjoy panoramic views while experiencing the thrill of street karting. The experience blends sightseeing with adrenaline-pumping fun, creating unforgettable memories for participants of all ages. It's a one-of-a-kind way to immerse oneself in Tokyo's bustling energy and capture the essence of Japan's pop culture phenomenon.

Kabuki-za is the principal theatre in Tokyo known for its kabuki performances. The theatre hall has a history which dates back to the 19th century and boasts of a baroque Japanese revivalist style of architecture. 

The National Diet Building in Tokyo stands as a remarkable symbol of Japan's governance, cultural heritage, and architectural prowess. Designed by renowned architect Kenzo Tange and completed in 1936, this imposing structure serves as the central hub for Japan's bicameral legislature, the National Diet of Japan. Its significance extends beyond mere functionality, embodying Japan's commitment to democracy, transparency, and cultural preservation.

Visitors to the National Diet Building are greeted by its awe-inspiring facade, which seamlessly integrates traditional Japanese architectural elements with modern design principles. The building's grandeur reflects its solemn purpose as the seat of government and underscores its importance in Japanese society.

Stepping inside, visitors are enveloped in an atmosphere of elegance and prestige. The interior of the National Diet Building boasts exquisite craftsmanship, with intricate woodwork, ornate furnishings, and captivating artwork adorning its halls and chambers. Each detail speaks to Japan's rich cultural heritage and artistic tradition, offering visitors a glimpse into the nation's storied past.

One of the highlights of a visit to the National Diet Building is the opportunity to observe Japan's democratic process in action. Visitors can attend parliamentary sessions, committee meetings, and public hearings, gaining insights into the country's political landscape and governance structure. The building's openness and accessibility underscore Japan's commitment to democracy and public participation.

Chidorigafuchi in Tokyo is a picturesque destination famous for its stunning cherry blossoms along a 700-meter-long path.

Sumida Park in Tokyo is a scenic riverside park located along the Sumida River. It offers stunning views of Tokyo Skytree and is famous for its cherry blossom trees, making it a popular spot during the hanami (cherry blossom viewing) season. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and boat cruises along the river, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of Tokyo.

Takeshita Street in Tokyo is a bustling and vibrant shopping street in the Harajuku district, known for its trendy fashion boutiques, quirky cafes, and vibrant atmosphere. It's a hub for youth culture and street fashion, offering a wide range of unique clothing, accessories, and snacks. Visitors can explore the lively street and experience Tokyo's vibrant pop culture scene.

TeamLab Planets Tokyo is an immersive digital art museum where visitors explore interactive installations blending art, technology, and nature.

The Odaiba Statue of Liberty is an 11-meter-tall replica of the famous Statue of Liberty located on the waterfront of Odaiba, Tokyo. Erected in 2000, it has become a popular tourist attraction and photo spot, particularly due to its backdrop with the Rainbow Bridge .

Omotesando, located in Tokyo, is a bustling district renowned for its upscale shopping, contemporary architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.

Nijubashi Bridge, located in the heart of Tokyo, is a renowned landmark and a symbol of Japan's rich cultural heritage. This picturesque bridge, whose name translates to "Double Bridge," is actually a pair of bridges that span the moat leading to the Imperial Palace. 

The Rainbow Bridge in Tokyo, Japan, is an iconic architectural marvel that connects the Shibaura Pier and the Odaiba waterfront development. This suspension bridge was built in the year 1993, and since then, it has stood in complete luxury! 

TeamLab Borderless Tokyo is an immersive digital art museum that transcends traditional boundaries. It showcases interactive installations where art, technology, and nature converge seamlessly. Visitors are transported into a mesmerizing world of light, sound, and movement, creating a surreal and unforgettable experience that challenges perception and sparks creativity.

The Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, located in the bustling district of Asakusa in Tokyo, Japan, serves as a gateway to the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Asakusa Shrine, situated in Tokyo's vibrant Asakusa district, stands as a testament to Japan's rich cultural heritage. Also known as Senso-ji, it's Tokyo's oldest temple, dating back to the 7th century. Visitors are greeted by the imposing Kaminarimon Gate, leading to a bustling street lined with shops and eateries. The shrine itself offers serene gardens, traditional architecture, and spiritual reflection amid the city's hustle.

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, the Imperial Palace is the prime residence of the Emperor of Japan. It is a world-famous cultural and historical landmark which displays a mesmerising blend of traditional Japanese architecture with breathtaking gardens. Surrounding the palace are various large stone walls and moats that offer a majestic appearance. The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace are open to the public and offer a tranquil retreat from the bustling city. Visitors can explore the manicured gardens, historical ruins, and seasonal flora. 

Roppongi is a vibrant Tokyo district known for nightlife, art museums, international dining, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere that attracts locals and tourists.

Opened in 1871, the National Museum of Nature and Science is located in the northeastern part of Tokyo’s Ueno Park. Opened in 1871, this museum is a part of the Tokyo Science Museum and is shaped like an aeroplane. 

Nakamise is a bustling shopping street that was established in the 17th century. It is one of the most recommended Tokyo famous places that are worth visiting because it gives you a direct insight into the shopping habits and local culture of the people of Tokyo. You can buy an innumerable amount of things in Nakamise, including delicious local snacks, souvenirs, jewellery, handicraft items, textiles, books, street food from shops that have been run by the same family for generations, ice cream and much more

Location: 1 Chome-36-3 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan

Timings: Monday to Sunday (10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) 

Sensoji is the oldest temple in all of Tokyo, and is one of the most revered Tokyo famous places, especially for Buddhists. The temple was built way back in 628 AD by two brothers in honour of the Kannon – the Goddess of Mercy. Today, this colourful temple is frequented by people from all over the world because of its religious significance, as well as its colourful architecture.

Location: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan

For a comprehensive insight into the life and culture of the people of Japan and especially Tokyo there are no better places to visit in Japan than the Edo Tokyo Museum. The Museum, through interactive installations, displays, artefacts from history and colourful artwork, effectively showcases how Tokyo, formerly known as Edo (till 1869) has developed, grown and thrived. Volunteer guides who speak English and other languages roam the museum for you to have the most authentic and rewarding experience here.

Location: 1 Chome-4-1 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday (9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.)

Entry fees: 600 yen

Opened in 1926, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum is one of the high-profile exhibitions of modern art. It is known for the retrospective artworks of artists like Edvard Munch, Isamu Noguchi, and Tsuguharu Foujita. 

When visiting places in Tokyo, one can’t do without skipping a visit to the Tokyo National Museum – the oldest and biggest of all of Japan’s top-level museums throughout the country. The museum houses over 110,000 pieces of historical artefacts, and over 100 national treasures. Apart from the 4,000 things that are always on display at the museum at any given time, you can also enjoy seasonal exhibitions and shows focusing on various aspects of Japan’s rich history.

Studio Ghibli is one of the most famous artistic products to have come out of Japan and many people visit the country simply to learn more about the animation studio of Miyazaki Hayao, who has produced some of the most emotional and well-made films in the world. If you too are interested in learning more about these famous films and animation, one of the best places in Tokyo is the Ghibli Museum in Inokashira Park in Mitaka. You can check out life-size figurines, robots, drawings, original drafts and much more at the museum.

Location: 1 Chome-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday (10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.)

Entry fees: 1000 yen

The Japan National Stadium is the official National Stadium of Japan and is located in Kasumigaoka, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan. The multipurpose stadium has a seating capacity of 68,000 spectators. It has also served as the main stadium for the opening and closing ceremonies of the 1964 Summer Olympics, the 2020 Summer Olympics and the 2020 Summer Paralympics. 

The Meiji Shrine or the Meiji Jingu is amongst some of the most sought-after Tokyo famous places, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll, admire the natural surroundings and scrutinize the intricate architecture of the shrine. There is also a shop where you can buy amulets and charms that are said to contain magical and mystical properties. During the New Year, millions of people visit the shrine to witness the first prayer, which is supposed to be the holiest of all offerings.

Location: 1-1 Yoyogi Kamizono Cho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan

Timings: Monday to Sunday (5:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.)

Hamarikyu Gardens, located in the heart of Tokyo, is a picture-perfect and historic public park that blends traditional Japanese garden aesthetics and urban modernity. The garden was originally a feudal lord's residence and duck hunting grounds; however, it was opened to the public in 1946. This tranquil oasis is spread over approximately 62 acres of land between the city's skyscrapers and Tokyo Bay. 

Ueno Zoological Gardens is the first modern zoo in Japan and is one of the most visited zoos in the country. Founded in 1882, the zoo currently stretches over 14.4 ha (35.6 acres) and houses around 300 different species and around 3000 animals. In addition to the animals of Japanese origin, the zoo also houses some rare animals such as giant pandas and forest giraffes. A visit to this zoo is a must on any Japan trip.

Ryōgoku Kokugikan is a sporting venue located in Tokyo, Japan with a seating capacity of up to 10,000 spectators. This is a venue that hosts sumo wrestling tournaments three times a year and was built in 1985. Apart from sumo wrestling tournaments, the venue is the go to place for boxing and concerts too. This hall is open throughout the year even when there are no sporting events happening in the place.