Tokyo

Tokyo Travel Guide

One of the world's largest cities and Japan's capital. From Shibuya's neon to Akihabara's otaku culture, Asakusa's traditional temples, and Ginza's high-end shopping, each neighborhood has its own distinct personality. With the most Michelin-starred restaurants on the planet, it is a gastronome's paradise, while precise subways and spotless streets make it welcoming even for first-time overseas travelers. A city of unmatched charm where cutting-edge technology and tradition coexist.

Essential Tokyo Travel Info

Must-Visit Places in Tokyo

★ 4.7

Asakusa Senso-ji Temple

Founded in 628, Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple and draws more than 30 million visitors a year. Past the massive Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) lies the 250m Nakamise shopping street, lined with traditional sweets and souvenirs. Illuminated at night for a different atmosphere, the temple also hosts the Sanja Matsuri festival every May. Free admission (temple grounds). A 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station (Ginza Line), Exit 1.

HoursMain hall 06:00-17:00; grounds open 24 hours

LocationTaito-ku, Tokyo

TipsVisit around 6 a.m. for a tranquil atmosphere before the crowds. Don't miss ningyo-yaki and age-manju along Nakamise street.

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★ 4.5

Tokyo Tower

Completed in 1958 and modeled on the Eiffel Tower, the 333m Tokyo Tower offers panoramic city views from its Main Deck (150m) and Top Deck (250m), with Mt. Fuji visible on clear days. Painted in vivid red and white, it's especially striking when lit at night and stands as a cultural icon of Japan's postwar growth. Main Deck admission JPY 1,200; Top Deck JPY 3,000. A 7-minute walk from Kaminarimen Station (Hibiya Line).

Hours09:00-23:00 (last entry 22:30)

LocationMinato-ku, Tokyo

TipsArrive 30 minutes before sunset for the night view. Nearby Shiba Park offers a great photo angle of the full tower.

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★ 4.4

Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Shibuya Scramble is the world's busiest crossing, with up to 3,000 people crossing at every signal change. Surrounded by giant neon signs and screens, it captures the energy of modern Tokyo. The Hachiko statue outside Shibuya Station is a famous meeting spot, and the view from the Shibuya Sky observation deck is breathtaking. Shibuya Sky admission JPY 2,000. Directly at JR Shibuya Station, Hachiko Exit.

Hours24 hours (Shibuya Sky: 10:00-22:30)

LocationShibuya-ku, Tokyo

TipsShibuya Sky offers a top-down view that reveals the true scale of the crossing. The second floor of Starbucks Shibuya Tsutaya is another great vantage point.

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★ 4.6

Meiji Jingu Shrine

Founded in 1920 to honor Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the shrine sits within a 700,000㎡ man-made forest of roughly 100,000 trees donated from across Japan, creating a dramatic contrast with bustling Harajuku just outside. Walking the gravel path through the towering wooden torii feels like a meditative retreat in the middle of Tokyo. During the New Year's hatsumode visit, more than 3 million people come to pray. Free admission (Inner Garden JPY 500). A 5-minute walk from JR Harajuku Station or Meiji-jingumae Station.

HoursSunrise to sunset (varies by month, roughly 06:00-17:00)

LocationShibuya-ku, Tokyo

TipsPair it with a stroll down Harajuku's Takeshita Street. You may be lucky enough to spot a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony taking place.

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★ 4.3

Akihabara Electric Town

Akihabara is the world's largest electronics district and the nerve center of Japanese otaku subculture. Multi-story shops packed with anime merchandise, figurines, and retro games line every street, alongside maid cafes and idol theaters for a truly unique experience. Since the 2000s it has transformed from an electronics bazaar into a global pilgrimage site for pop-culture fans. Tax-free shopping is widely available. Directly outside JR Akihabara Station, Electric Town Exit.

Hours24 hours (individual shops roughly 10:00-21:00)

LocationChiyoda-ku, Tokyo

TipsYodobashi Akiba is great for tax-free electronics, and Radio Kaikan (Radikan) is a figurine paradise. The main road becomes a pedestrian zone on Sundays.

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★ 4.6

Tokyo Skytree

Opened in 2012, the 634m Tokyo Skytree is the world's second-tallest free-standing tower. Two observation decks at 350m (Tembo Deck) and 450m (Tembo Galleria) offer 360-degree panoramas of all Tokyo, with Mt. Fuji visible on clear days. The base contains Tokyo Skytree Town with an aquarium, planetarium, and shopping mall. Spectacular lighting illuminates the tower at night, making it a great view from Asakusa and Ueno too. Tembo Deck admission JPY 2,100; combined ticket JPY 3,100. Directly at Tokyo Skytree Station (Tobu Skytree Line).

Hours10:00-22:00 (last entry 21:00)

LocationSumida-ku, Tokyo

TipsArrive an hour before sunset to enjoy both day and night views. Weekday afternoons are quietest, and online advance tickets let you skip the line.

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★ 4.6

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Originally built as an imperial garden during the Meiji era, Shinjuku Gyoen is a 58-hectare national garden combining Japanese, English landscape, and French formal styles in a single space. Around 1,000 cherry trees of 65 varieties make it one of Tokyo's top hanami spots in spring, while November foliage and winter plum blossoms are equally stunning. The expansive lawns set against Shinjuku's skyscrapers create a uniquely Tokyo scene. Admission JPY 500. A 10-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station, South Exit.

Hours09:00-18:00 (closed Mondays; open daily during cherry blossom and autumn seasons)

LocationShinjuku-ku, Tokyo

TipsDuring cherry blossom season (late March-early April), arrive on a weekday morning to avoid crowds. Alcohol is prohibited in the garden.

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★ 4.7

teamLab Planets Tokyo

Opened in 2018 in Toyosu by the Japanese digital art collective teamLab, Planets is an immersive museum where you take off your shoes and walk knee-deep through water, experiencing infinite universes created by giant mirrors and digital projections. The Floating Flower Garden, filled with 13,000 live orchids suspended in air, is an Instagram favorite, and every installation reacts to visitor movement, creating ever-changing scenes. Guinness World Records named it the world's most visited museum. Admission JPY 3,800 (advance booking required). A 1-minute walk from Shin-Toyosu Station (Yurikamome Line).

Hours10:00-22:00 (seasonal variations; last entry 21:00)

LocationKoto-ku, Tokyo

TipsOnline advance booking is required. Short skirts aren't advised due to mirrored floors, and bring a waterproof phone case as you may get wet.

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★ 4.5

Ueno Park

Designated in 1873 as Japan's first modern public park, Ueno Park is one of Tokyo's largest urban green spaces. Around 1,000 cherry trees make it a top hanami spot in spring, and the grounds also host the Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Zoo, and Shinobazu Pond, offering a full day of activities. Once part of Kan'ei-ji Temple during the Edo period, it opened as a public park after the Meiji Restoration. Free entry (facilities extra). A 2-minute walk from JR Ueno Station, Park Exit.

Hours05:00-23:00 (park grounds); facility hours vary

LocationTaito-ku, Tokyo

TipsDuring cherry blossom season, arrive early morning to claim a spot. Shinobazu Pond's lotus flowers peak in summer.

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★ 4.6

Tokyo National Museum

Founded in 1872 and located inside Ueno Park, the Tokyo National Museum is Japan's oldest and largest museum. Its Honkan (Japanese Gallery), Toyokan (Asian Gallery), and Heiseikan buildings hold roughly 120,000 items including paintings, ceramics, armor, and Buddhist statues, with 89 pieces designated National Treasures. It's the best place to grasp Japanese art history systematically, and special exhibitions are held frequently. Admission JPY 1,000. A 10-minute walk from JR Ueno Station, Park Exit.

Hours09:30-17:00 (closed Mondays)

LocationTaito-ku, Tokyo

TipsThe National Treasure Gallery on Honkan's 2nd floor rotates exhibits seasonally — check the website beforehand. Spring and autumn are especially recommended for the beautiful garden.

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★ 4.4

Tokyo Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace is the residence of Japan's Emperor and imperial family, built on the site of Edo Castle, once the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate. The palace interior is open to the public only on limited days such as New Year and the Emperor's birthday, but the Nijubashi (double bridge), moats, and Matsu-no-Roka can be viewed year-round from outside. The spacious Kokyo Gaien lawns are a popular spot for a relaxed city stroll. Free (interior tours require advance reservation). A 5-minute walk from Nijubashimae Station (Chiyoda Line).

HoursKokyo Gaien open 24 hours; interior tours 09:00-15:00 (reservation required)

LocationChiyoda-ku, Tokyo

TipsInterior tours require online advance booking. The view in front of Nijubashi is one of Tokyo's classic photo spots.

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★ 4.5

Ginza

Dating back to the Meiji era, Ginza is Japan's premier upscale shopping and commercial district, packed with luxury brand flagships and historic department stores like Mitsukoshi and Wako. Rebuilt as a Western-style brick district after the 1872 great fire, it became a symbol of Japan's modernization, and its main streets turn into a pedestrian paradise on weekend afternoons. Newer complexes like Ginza Six and Tsutaya Books blend tradition with modernity. Free to explore. Directly connected to Ginza Station (Tokyo Metro).

Hours24 hours (shops roughly 10:00-20:00)

LocationChuo-ku, Tokyo

TipsFrom noon on weekends and holidays, Chuo-dori becomes a car-free pedestrian zone. Explore the side alleys for old-school sushi shops too.

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★ 4.4

Roppongi Hills

Opened in 2003, Roppongi Hills is one of Tokyo's largest mixed-use redevelopment complexes, blending offices, residences, shopping, and cultural facilities. Tokyo City View, on the 52nd floor of the central Mori Tower, offers views of both Tokyo Tower and Skytree, while the Mori Art Museum on the 53rd floor is known for contemporary exhibitions. The giant spider sculpture 'Maman' in the plaza is a popular photo spot. Observatory admission JPY 2,000. Directly connected to Roppongi Station Exit 1C (Hibiya Line).

Hours10:00-22:00 (observatory; last entry 21:30)

LocationMinato-ku, Tokyo

TipsTime your visit to Tokyo City View around sunset to enjoy both day and night views. The outdoor terrace offers open-air night views at no extra charge.

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★ 4.3

Rainbow Bridge

Opened in 1993, the 798m Rainbow Bridge connects the Shibaura district with the man-made island of Odaiba across Tokyo Bay. True to its name, it's illuminated at night in three solar-powered colors, forming a highlight of the Tokyo Bay night view. A pedestrian walkway lets you cross on foot, and riding the Yurikamome line lets you enjoy views of both the Tokyo skyline and Odaiba simultaneously. Free pedestrian crossing. A 5-minute walk from Shibaura-futo Station (Yurikamome).

HoursPedestrian walkway 09:00-21:00 (varies by season)

LocationMinato-ku, Tokyo

TipsThe walkway is best after dark to see the illuminated bridge up close. The view from Odaiba Seaside Park is also excellent.

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★ 4.4

Yanaka

Largely spared from WWII bombing, Yanaka is one of Tokyo's classic old neighborhoods, retaining the atmosphere of the Edo and Meiji eras. Narrow lanes wind past wooden houses and around 70 temples, while the roughly 170m Yanaka Ginza shopping street is lined with old-fashioned side-dish shops and traditional confectioneries. Known as a 'cat town' for its many street cats, Yanaka Cemetery is also famous for cherry blossoms. Free to explore. A 5-minute walk from JR Nippori Station.

Hours24 hours (shops roughly 10:00-18:00)

LocationTaito-ku, Tokyo

TipsThe menchi-katsu (minced cutlet) at Yanaka Ginza always draws a line. The sunset view from the 'Yuyake Dandan' steps is especially beautiful.

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★ 4.3

Ameya-Yokocho

Ameya-Yokocho (Ameyoko for short) is Ueno's iconic market street, born from a black market right after WWII ended. Along a roughly 400m arcade, some 400 stalls sell fresh seafood, dried goods, fruit, clothing, and sundries at bargain prices. The name is said to derive either from 'candy (ame) shop street' or 'American goods street.' The narrow alley beneath the JR tracks buzzes with vendors calling out to customers. Free to explore. A 1-minute walk from JR Ueno or Okachimachi Station.

Hours10:00-20:00 (varies by shop)

LocationTaito-ku, Tokyo

TipsLate December is the busiest time as shoppers stock up on New Year's food. Many stalls are open to haggling — don't hesitate to ask.

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★ 4.6

Rikugien Garden

Built over seven years starting in 1702 by Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu, a close aide to the fifth Tokugawa shogun, Rikugien recreates 88 famous scenes from classical Japanese waka poetry within its grounds. A masterpiece of the 'stroll-style' garden centered on a pond, it is designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. The weeping cherry tree in spring and the illuminated autumn foliage are especially beautiful. Admission JPY 300. A 7-minute walk from JR Komagome Station.

Hours09:00-17:00 (last entry 16:30)

LocationBunkyo-ku, Tokyo

TipsVisit in the evening during the autumn illumination period (mid-November to early December). The huge weeping cherry near the entrance peaks in late March.

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★ 4.7

Ghibli Museum

Opened in 2001 in Mitaka near Tokyo, the Ghibli Museum is Studio Ghibli's official museum, displaying original art, production notes, and a giant Catbus model from films like 'My Neighbor Totoro' and 'Spirited Away.' The maze-like interior and the robot soldier statue on the rooftop garden reward visitors who explore, and an exclusive short animation is screened on-site. Tickets are sold only through monthly advance online booking (first-come, first-served). Admission JPY 1,000. A shuttle bus or 15-minute walk (via Inokashira Park) from JR Mitaka Station.

Hours10:00-18:00 (closed Wednesdays; timed entry)

LocationMitaka, Tokyo

TipsTickets for the following month go on sale on the 10th and sell out fast. The robot soldier statue in the rooftop garden is a must-see photo spot.

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Things to Do in Tokyo

Culture

Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Cross the world's busiest intersection, then watch from the 2nd-floor Starbucks. Free

Price FreeDuration 30 min - 1 hour

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Tour

Tokyo Bay Cruise

Cruise past Rainbow Bridge and Odaiba on Tokyo Bay. About JPY 1,500-3,000

Price About JPY 1,500-3,000Duration 1-2 hours

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Nightlife

Robot Restaurant

Robot show restaurant in Shinjuku Kabukicho. Dazzling neon lights and robot performances. About JPY 8,000

Price About JPY 8,000Duration 1.5 hours

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Adventure

Tokyo Disneyland

World-renowned theme park in Urayasu near Tokyo. Centered on Cinderella's Castle with attractions, parades, and nightly fireworks for a full day of fun. 5-minute walk from JR Maihama Station. 1-day passport about JPY 7,900-10,900

Price 1-day passport about JPY 7,900-10,900Duration 8-10 hours

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Culture

Tsukiji Outer Market Food Tour

Morning food crawl through Tsukiji Outer Market sampling maguro don, oyster fries, dashimaki tamago, and other fresh Japanese bites. Budget about JPY 3,000-5,000 per person

Price About JPY 3,000-5,000 per personDuration 2-3 hours

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Nightlife

Odaiba Night Walk

Stroll the man-made island of Odaiba with views of Rainbow Bridge, the Statue of Liberty replica, and the giant Gundam statue. DiverCity mall and teamLab Borderless are nearby. Free entry (attractions extra)

Price Free (attractions extra)Duration 3-4 hours

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Must-Try Food in Tokyo

Sushi

🍱 Traditional

Sushi: traditional Japanese dish of fresh fish on vinegared rice. The Tsukiji market area is especially famous. About JPY 1,500-5,000 per person (conveyor belt to omakase). Try the sushi alleys near Tsukiji Outer Market and Toyosu Market.

Ramen

🍱 Traditional

Ramen: rich-broth Japanese noodle soup; Tokyo-style is known for its soy sauce base. About JPY 800-1,200 per bowl. The ramen alleys in Shinjuku and Ikebukuro, plus Tokyo Ramen Street (underground at Tokyo Station) are famous.

Melon Pan

🍢 Street Food

Melon Pan: a sweet Japanese bread topped with a crispy cookie crust. About JPY 200-400 each. The melon pan at Kagetsudo in Asakusa is especially famous.

Tempura

🍱 Traditional

Tempura: lightly battered and deep-fried shrimp and vegetables. A tendon (tempura rice bowl) costs about JPY 1,000-2,000. Daikokuya in Asakusa and Kaneko Hannosuke in Nihonbashi always have a line.

Monjayaki

🍢 Street Food

Monjayaki: a runny batter grilled on a hot plate and scraped up with a small spatula — a uniquely Tokyo street food. About JPY 800-1,500 per serving. Over 70 specialty restaurants line Tsukishima Monja Street.

Wagyu Steak

🍱 Traditional

Wagyu Steak: Japan's prized black-cattle beef with exceptional marbling that melts in your mouth. About JPY 5,000-15,000 per serving. Teppanyaki restaurants in Ginza and Roppongi grill it tableside.

Yakitori

🍢 Street Food

Yakitori: charcoal-grilled chicken skewers served with shio (salt) or tare (soy glaze) — a quintessential Japanese izakaya snack. About JPY 150-400 per skewer. The yakitori alleys in Shinjuku's Omoide Yokocho and under the Yurakucho train tracks are famous.

Tokyo Travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Tokyo?

Best in spring (March-April) for cherry blossoms and autumn (October-November) for foliage. Summers are hot and humid.

How much does it cost to travel in Tokyo?

Daily budget around $70-145 (lodging $35-85; food $20-35; transport $7-15).

How do I get around in Tokyo?

From Narita Airport, the Skyliner reaches Ueno in 36 minutes; from Haneda, the monorail takes 20 minutes into the city. Within Tokyo, the JR Yamanote Line and subway are most convenient. SIM cards and pocket WiFi rentals are available at the airport (about JPY 500-800/day). IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) are convenient, and most places accept both cash and cards. Tipping is not customary.

Do I need a visa to visit Tokyo?

Korean passport holders may enter visa-free for up to 90 days.

Is Tokyo safe for tourists?

One of the safest cities in the world, but familiarize yourself with earthquake evacuation procedures.

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