Your ultimate guide to visiting Tokyo — from ancient temples and neon-lit streets to world-class cuisine, getting around, and insider tips for an unforgettable trip to Japan's electric capital.
Tokyo Travel Guide: Your Complete City Companion
Tokyo, Japan’s dazzling capital, is a city where ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity coexist in breathtaking harmony. From serene Shinto shrines nestled between gleaming skyscrapers to quiet backstreet ramen shops steps away from neon-drenched entertainment districts, Tokyo offers an endlessly fascinating tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for the fifth time, this guide covers everything you need for an unforgettable trip.
Top Attractions You Can’t Miss
The Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa is Tokyo’s oldest and most iconic temple, dating back to the 7th century. Approach through the magnificent Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and stroll along Nakamise-dori, a vibrant shopping street filled with traditional snacks and souvenirs. Nearby, the Tokyo Skytree soars 634 metres into the sky, offering panoramic views across the entire Kanto plain on clear days.
The Meiji Shrine, set within a lush forested park in Shibuya, provides a tranquil escape from the city’s energy. Just minutes away, the legendary Shibuya Crossing — the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection — pulses with thousands of people at every signal change.
For imperial history, the Imperial Palace East Gardens offer a free, beautifully maintained glimpse into Japan’s royal heritage, while the Tsukiji Outer Market (and the newer Toyosu Fish Market) remain essential stops for seafood lovers.
Museums & Culture
The teamLab Borderless digital art museum (now in Azabudai Hills) is a must-see immersive experience. The Tokyo National Museum in Ueno houses Japan’s largest collection of art and antiquities, while the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi Hills showcases contemporary works with stunning city views. For anime and manga fans, Akihabara is an electric paradise, and the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka is a pilgrimage for Studio Ghibli devotees (book tickets well in advance).
Historic & Religious Sites
Beyond Senso-ji, explore the serene Meiji Jingu, the elegant Zojo-ji Temple with Tokyo Tower rising behind it, and the peaceful Nezu Shrine with its tunnel of vermillion torii gates. For a day trip, Nikko and Kamakura are both under two hours away and offer extraordinary temple complexes and the Great Buddha statue.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Shinjuku is Tokyo at its most intense — home to the busiest train station in the world, the neon maze of Kabukicho, the tranquil Shinjuku Gyoen garden, and the free observation deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Shibuya buzzes with youth culture, fashion, and nightlife, while Harajuku’s Takeshita Street is the epicentre of Japanese street fashion.
Asakusa preserves old-world Tokyo charm with its traditional shops and rickshaw rides. Yanaka, one of the few neighbourhoods to survive WWII bombing, feels like stepping back in time with its narrow lanes, independent cafes, and a famous cemetery lined with cherry trees.
Modern Tokyo
Odaiba, the futuristic waterfront district, features the life-size Unicorn Gundam statue, teamLab exhibitions, and shopping malls with Tokyo Bay views. Roppongi offers upscale dining, art museums, and vibrant nightlife. Shimokitazawa, often called Tokyo’s Brooklyn, charms visitors with vintage shops, independent theatres, and cosy coffee houses.
Food & Dining
Tokyo holds more Michelin stars than any other city in the world, yet some of its best meals cost under ¥1,000 (around €6). Ramen ranges from rich, pork-based tonkotsu to delicate shoyu (soy sauce) broths — try legendary spots in ramen alleys across the city. Sushi at a conveyor-belt (kaiten) restaurant can be exceptional and affordable, while high-end omakase experiences are truly world-class.
Don’t miss izakaya (Japanese pubs) in areas like Yurakucho’s Gado-shita (under-the-tracks bars) for yakitori, tempura, and cold beer in atmospheric settings. For street food, explore Ameyoko Market near Ueno for fresh seafood, taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries), and takoyaki (octopus balls).
Where to Eat
Budget travellers should seek out teishoku (set meal) restaurants, convenience store bento boxes (surprisingly excellent), and standing soba noodle shops near train stations. For a splurge, book a table at a traditional kaiseki restaurant for a multi-course Japanese haute cuisine experience. Depachika (department store basement food halls) like those in Isetan Shinjuku or Mitsukoshi Ginza are culinary wonderlands perfect for grazing.
Getting Around Tokyo
Tokyo’s public transport system is one of the most efficient in the world. The Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines cover virtually every corner of the city, complemented by JR lines including the famous Yamanote Line loop. Purchase a Suica or Pasmo IC card for seamless travel across all train, metro, and bus lines — simply tap and go.
A Tokyo Subway Ticket (24/48/72-hour unlimited rides) offers excellent value for tourists exploring multiple areas per day. Trains run from approximately 5:00 AM to midnight, and the system is remarkably punctual.
Taxis & Walking
Taxis are clean, safe, and metered but expensive — a short ride can easily cost ¥2,000+. They’re most useful late at night when trains stop running. Many neighbourhoods, especially Asakusa, Yanaka, and Shimokitazawa, are best explored on foot. Cycling is also popular — rental bikes are available through apps and at many hotels.
Practical Tips
Cash is still king in many smaller restaurants, shrines, and markets — always carry yen. Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson) are lifesavers open 24/7 with ATMs, quality food, tickets, and even laundry services. Tipping is not customary and can even be considered rude. Learn a few basic Japanese phrases — arigatou gozaimasu (thank you) and sumimasen (excuse me) go a long way. Free Wi-Fi is available at major stations and convenience stores, but renting a pocket Wi-Fi device at the airport is highly recommended for seamless connectivity.
Best Time to Visit
Tokyo is a year-round destination, but the most popular seasons are spring (late March–April) for cherry blossoms and autumn (November–early December) for stunning foliage. Summer (June–August) is hot and humid with spectacular fireworks festivals, while winter (December–February) brings crisp, clear skies, fewer crowds, and magical illumination displays across the city. For the latest weather conditions in Tokyo, check our Tokyo weather forecast page.
