Explore Tokyo
Plan Your Trip to Tokyo: Best of Tokyo Tourism
Essential Tokyo
The Best Free Things to Do in Tokyo
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Decks5,491Located on the 45th floor of a city office building in Shinjuku, Tokyo’s best no-fee observatory is a great introduction to the city’s never-ending sprawl. On clear winter days, you can even see Mt. Fuji. Make this one of your first stops, not only to get a handle on Tokyo’s layout but also for the Tokyo Tourist Information Center on the first floor, which has maps and brochures.
- Tokyo Free Walking Tour416Led by dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers, I always recommend this nonprofit that offers four free tours conducted in English that take in some of Tokyo’s most iconic sights and neighborhoods. Highlights include Asakusa, Ueno Park, the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, and Meiji Shrine and Harajuku. Tours are offered Saturday, Sunday, and some Wednesdays, and last 90 to 120 minutes.
- The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace (Edo Castle Ruin)2,051Edo Castle was once the mightiest in the land, surrounded by whirling moats and secured with 29 watchtowers and 38 gates. Today, all that remains are the stone ramparts, tower foundation, and turrets. Although the ruins are fascinating, my favorite part is Ninomaru, a traditional (and free) Japanese garden. It’s particularly beautiful in the spring when azaleas, wisteria, and other flowers are in bloom.
- Senso-ji Temple9,481Tokyo’s most famous temple predates the city by 1,300 years. Dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, it attracts some 30 million visitors every year. I love the temple’s festive atmosphere, which extends into the surrounding Asakusa neighborhood with its shitamachi (old downtown) character. Nakamise, the pedestrian lane leading to the temple, is lined with inexpensive souvenir stalls and is one of Japan’s oldest shopping streets.
- Meiji Jingu Shrine8,287Tokyo’s most venerated Shinto shrine is dedicated to Empress Shoken and Emperor Meiji (1852-1912), who oversaw Japan’s transformation from an agrarian feudal society to a modern industrialized nation. Nestled in a dense, sacred forest it has a peaceful atmosphere even though it’s not far from the vibrantly youthful Harajuku neighborhood. (However, it's an especially popular site to visit around the New Year, so expect crowds if you visit then.)
- Tsukiji Jogai Market1,898I was sad to see Tsukiji Fish Market move to a more sterile location in Toyosu, but Tsukiji Jogai (Outer Market) retains its bustling, lively atmosphere. A warren of alleyways lined with stalls and shops, it offers fresh seafood, seasonal produce, cooking utensils, and street food ranging from personal favorites like takoyaki (round octopus cakes) to king crab. It’s free to visit, but to escape the crowds arrive by 9 a.m.
- Yoyogi Park2,334This 133-acre free park near Harajuku and Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s largest and most beloved parks, making it a great place to see Tokyoites at play. Families, couples, students, and groups of all nationalities come for weekend picnics on wide, grassy lawns or to play sports ranging from soccer to frisbee. It also has a forested area, bird sanctuary, dog run, rental bikes, and a dedicated cycling course, including one for kids.
Explore Tokyo by interest
Only in Tokyo
Tokyo on a dime
If you’re feeling fancy-ish
Stop and smell the roses
See the city after dark
Sip on some sake
Take a break at a teahouse
The city’s a stage
All about that view
For the history buff
Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Tokyo
In the words of those who've been there before ...
What is the best way to get there?
Flying:
Tokyo is serviced by two major airports, Narita and Haneda. Haneda is closer to the city.
You can find more information here.
Train:
The Japan rail network is extensive and trains from other cities could arrive in multiple stations in Tokyo. The most serviced would include Tokyo Station, Shibuya Station and Shinjuku Station. Shinjuku is known as the world’s busiest train station. For bullet trains (shinkansen), the stations are Tokyo Station and Shinagawa Station.
Do I need a visa?
Currently, citizens from 68 countries can travel into Japan visa-free. Please check on your eligibility and visa information here.
When is the best time to visit?
October to February: Tokyo is a great destination all year round. However, the summer months can be excruciatingly hot. Avoid July, August, and early September if you don’t like to sweat as the average temperature over these months hovers at 85 Fahrenheit (29 Celsius). Tokyo’s high season falls between mid-March to late April, especially because many domestic and foreign travelers like to come at that time to see the cherry blossoms. Similarly, October and early November are peak times to view the fall foliage.
Are there local customs I should know?
For more observations on customs in Japan, here's a useful site.
- We recommend staying at one of the most popular hotels in Tokyo, which include:
- Some of the most popular restaurants in Tokyo include:
- Tokyo is known for some of its popular attractions, which include:
- We recommend checking out these popular tours when looking for something to do in Tokyo:
- If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Tokyo between June and August, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. Peak hotel prices generally start between December and February.