Things To Do in Tokyo 2026

Tokyo's most iconic temple, founded in 628 AD in the heart of Asakusa. Walk through the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and along the Nakamise shopping street lined with traditional snacks and souvenirs. The five-story pagoda and the main hall are spectacular, especially at dawn before the crowds arrive.

The world's busiest pedestrian crossing — up to 3,000 people cross simultaneously when the lights change. Watch from the Starbucks overlooking the crossing, or go to the top of Shibuya Scramble Square (230m) for a bird's-eye view. The surrounding Shibuya district is Tokyo's most energetic shopping and entertainment hub.

Tokyo's most beautiful park — 58 hectares of French formal gardens, English landscape gardens, and traditional Japanese gardens. Home to over 1,000 cherry trees, making it one of the best cherry blossom spots in Japan. The greenhouse has tropical plants from around the world.

The world's most famous fish market — the inner market moved to Toyosu, but the outer market still buzzes with fresh seafood stalls, sushi restaurants, and street food. A sushi breakfast at one of the tiny counter restaurants is a quintessential Tokyo experience. Try the tamagoyaki (sweet egg omelette) and fresh uni (sea urchin).

Tokyo's fashion capital — Takeshita Street is a narrow pedestrian lane packed with quirky fashion boutiques, crepe shops, and the most creative street fashion in the world. Nearby Omotesando is Tokyo's answer to the Champs-Élysées — luxury brands in stunning architectural buildings. The Meiji Shrine is a 5-minute walk away.

Tokyo's most extraordinary art experience — teamLab creates immersive digital art installations where visitors walk through rooms of flowing light, flowers, and water. teamLab Planets in Toyosu is the most popular (barefoot, water-wading experience). teamLab Borderless reopened in Azabudai Hills in 2024 with new installations.

Tokyo's electronics and anime district — multi-story electronics stores, anime merchandise shops, maid cafes, and retro game arcades. The best place in the world to buy electronics, manga, and anime collectibles. The Yodobashi Camera store is the size of a city block.

The world's tallest tower at 634m — the Tokyo Skytree has two observation decks at 350m and 450m with extraordinary views of Tokyo and, on clear days, Mount Fuji. The surrounding Solamachi shopping complex has 300+ shops and restaurants. The tower is especially beautiful at night when it's illuminated.

Tokyo's most serene escape — the Meiji Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, set in 70 hectares of forested grounds in the heart of the city. The towering torii gate and the forested path create a profound sense of calm. Adjacent Yoyogi Park is perfect for picnics and people-watching.

Tokyo has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world — but the real Tokyo food experience is in the ramen shops, izakayas (Japanese pubs), and yakitori restaurants under the train tracks. Shinjuku's Golden Gai has 200+ tiny bars. Shibuya's Nonbei Yokocho is perfect for izakaya hopping.

Japan's most iconic landmark — Mount Fuji (3,776m) is just 2 hours from Tokyo by Shinkansen or bus. The Fuji Five Lakes area (Kawaguchiko) offers the best views of the mountain reflected in the lake. The climbing season is July to early September. The Chureito Pagoda view is one of Japan's most photographed scenes.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site 2 hours from Tokyo — Nikko is home to the extraordinarily ornate Tosho-gu Shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo shogunate. The shrine complex is covered in intricate gold leaf carvings and colorful lacquerwork. The surrounding mountains and waterfalls are spectacular.