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Top things to do in Tokyo

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Tokyo: the city's best neighborhoods

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About Tokyo

Including tips for the best time to visit Tokyo

Japan's capital is one of the world's most incredible megacities, with over 13 million residents and a variety of diverse districts. Tokyo's mix of old-world charm and cutting-edge innovation means it has something for everyone.

There's no better place to start experiencing Tokyo's traditions and culture than the ancient temples of Asakusa, the Meiji Shrine (in Harajuku), and Chiyoda's Imperial Palace. An enormous amount of seafood—close to 2,000 tons daily—is traded at the Tsukiji Market, which is also a great place to enjoy a sushi breakfast, before shopping for fresh meat, fruit, vegetables, and flowers.

The city is also home to some great museums like Tokyo's National Museum, which houses a large collection of Japanese art, samurai swords, and colorful kimonos. Film-lovers shouldn't miss the Ghibli Museum, showacsing the work of world-renowned animator Miyazaki Hayao. This space features original sketches, a rooftop garden, and life-size recreations of film sets.

For the best views over the city, take a trip up to the Tokyo Skytree – one of the tallest buildings in the world. The observation deck offers 360-degree views, plus there's a shopping mall and restaurant on other floors below. Then catch a sumo wrestling match in Ryōgoku or visit the rides and attractions at Tokyo Disneyland. Narita Airport is Tokyo's main airport, located 43 miles northeast of the city. The quickest way to travel between them is the Skyliner electric railroad, which takes less than 45 minutes. Some international flights operate from Haneda Airport, though most are domestic.

Tonight

From $84 per night

Next weekend

From $179 per night

Most popular time to visit October-December
Cheapest time to visit January-March
Local currency ¥1,000 = $6.54
Language Japanese
Average weekend price $153 per night
Average weekday price $156 per night
Average stay 2 nights

Points of interest in Tokyo

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Tokyo reviews

What other travelers say about Tokyo

10

Tokyo and Japan overall is one of those places you are going...

May 2, 2024

Tokyo and Japan overall is one of those places you are going to miss when back home. Shinjuky, Shibuya, Osaka and Kyoto station are fantastic spots, however everywhere you look streets are clean, people are impeccably dressed, there are nicer public bathrooms that you can find at your own home and the food is top tier. And the public transportation? unbelivable! clean, fast, and on time! like nowhere else in the world.

Heika
Heika Costa Rica
8.0

I didn't feel the crowding of the world's most...

May 2, 2024

I didn't feel the crowding of the world's most densely populated city. The only real crowding was in viewing the cherry blossoms found in parks around the city. The few places I experienced were large enough that the crowds were spread out. I would recommend walking in the city to places you want to see (if possible) as the subways do get crowded. I planned to be able to walk an hour or less to my destinations. If you can't/don't like to walk, an IC card or subway pass is a good thing to have. I loved seeing the giant Miyazaki clock and Skytree really gives you an idea of the density and size of Tokyo. The Imperial Palace grounds are beautiful. Meiji Temple is one place I would go back to as I didn't have a lot of time to experience the trails around it. The entrance is lined with an avenue of huge trees.

Cynthia
Cynthia United States of America
10

Tokyo is a city one will visit time after time - there are...

May 2, 2024

Tokyo is a city one will visit time after time - there are simply too many quaint and beautiful places to explore. It is also a great transport hub where one can make many day trips from. The service is impeccable - from hole-in-the-wall shops/eateries to established venues. Take time to wonder along side streets and gardens, and take in the sights. With google translate, non-Japanese speakers can also get around quite easily.

Dawn
Dawn Singapore
10

Even though Tokyo is a mega-city, we found the city so green...

May 1, 2024

Even though Tokyo is a mega-city, we found the city so green, clean, quiet and flowing. Though the streets are crowded with people and/or vehicles, you always have your personal space, no bumping into or touching you by either people on foot or bicycles on the sidewalk. Taxis are easy to get and can get you to your destination with ease and reasonable in price. I am an elderly woman walking with a cane and I could always find handicapped restrooms and wheelchairs available for free when needed-you just need to ask for help. Japan has lots of stairs, but I was able to find escalators and elevators to help me make my way thru the city. Only thing I found difficult was finding resting spots along the way, but I found lots of coffee shops to rest in. The Japanese are courteous, kind and willing to help and many are able to converse in English.

Osakidot
Osakidot United States of America
10

Not a straightforward city.

May 1, 2024

Not a straightforward city. Takes a bit of time to explore and venture in the various neighbourhood. But then it gets very exciting and fascinating. We spent 4 days/5nights which just about right to have the right mix between entertainment and culture. Count one day per neighbourhood. Among my favorite: sky tree tower, ninja restaurant, emperor palace, and the cherry trees :) Do book restaurants in advance!

Fabien
Fabien Switzerland
10

Tokyo was a busy and vibrant city with lots to do.

May 1, 2024

Tokyo was a busy and vibrant city with lots to do. Clean everywhere. Lovely friendly people. Great transport links. Felt very safe as 2 female travellers. We visited the Tokyo Skytree which was worth a visit if you love shopping and great views of Tokyo but very busy.. Disney land Tokyo was amazing

Lorraine
Lorraine United Kingdom

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