Are you new in Tokyo? Have you just made the big leap and moved to one of the most exciting cities in the world? First off—congrats! But also… feeling a little overwhelmed? You’re not alone. Tokyo is massive, fast-paced, and full of hidden gems, and it can be a bit of a maze when you’re just getting started. Maybe you’re wondering where the locals actually hang out, how to make connections, or what kind of activities can help you feel more settled.
The good news is, Tokyo has so much to offer beyond the tourist hotspots—especially if you’re ready to dive into the local lifestyle. From chilled neighbourhood cafés and underrated museums, to cultural workshops and community events, there are loads of ways to start feeling at home here. So let’s break it down: here are 20 of the best things you can do in Tokyo to help you settle in, explore like a local, and fully experience what life in this incredible city is all about.
1. Visit 100 Yen Shops
Big 100 yen chains like Daiso and Seria sell everything from decorations to kitchen goods, all for just 100 yen or a similarly low price. These stores are perfect for picking up little bits and bobs for your room, or even some food items to help kickstart your life in Japan. You can get so much for so little—it’s a brilliant way to save money. One of the largest 100 yen shops can be found in downtown Tokyo, right next to Funabashi Station, so make sure to bring a big bag!
2. Check Out Donki
Don Quijote (aka Donki) is Japan’s biggest discount chain store. Not only is it packed with deals on daily essentials, but the store itself is a whole experience. The chaotic, colourful vibe attracts thousands of people daily, and it’s a top spot for picking up weird and wonderful souvenirs (omiyage). From snacks to skincare, Donki’s prices often beat your local drugstore—so it’s a solid place to grab basics like shampoo and conditioner on a budget.
3. Go to Electronics Stores
Electronics stores are great for kitting out your new home. Japan’s plug sockets differ from those in many countries, especially in North America and Europe, so you might need to grab plug adapters—or even new appliances. Major electronics chains include Yamada Denki, Bic Camera, Edion, K’s Denki, and Yodobashi Camera. You’ll find them near big stations across Tokyo, especially in Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Akihabara.
4. Go to Local Izakayas
The word “居酒屋” literally means “stay sake shop,” a place where people eat, drink, and chill. Izakayas serve traditional or Western-style dishes that pair well with alcohol, making them the perfect spot to dive into Japanese social life. Salarymen often head here after work, so you’ll get a glimpse of the more relaxed side of Japan’s business culture—maybe even join them for a pint! Weekends tend to be even livelier, so it’s also a fun way to meet people and make friends.
5. Explore Your Local Neighbourhood
Getting to know your neighbourhood is key to feeling at home. By wandering around, you’ll start recognising landmarks and building a mental map of nearby essentials like your train station, supermarket, drugstore, and convenience store. It’ll make everyday life way easier—and who knows what local gems you’ll stumble upon. Every Tokyo neighbourhood has its own unique vibe, so take time to discover what makes yours special!
6. Discover Local Areas of Tokyo
Our website has loads of area guides that cover both famous districts and hidden gems around Tokyo. Exploring different neighbourhoods isn’t just fun—it also helps you get more comfortable using Japan’s train system. Let’s be real: Tokyo trains can be confusing, even with English signs. Big stations like Shinjuku can feel like a maze, so getting out there, riding different lines, and trying out transfers is great practice for navigating daily life in Japan.
Here’s a quick list of places you could explore to get a real feel for Tokyo:
Shimokitazawa is located in the district of Setagaya, Tokyo. It is a hub for fashionistas who love to go thrift shopping. As well to thrift stores there are endless unique restaurants and shops that build the hipster and indie atmosphere of Shimokitazawa. You can get lost in the streets, being inspired by the many different quirks of this neighbourhood. If you need a one-of-a-kind accessory or clothing item to add to your wardrobe, then Shimokitazawa is the place for you!
Nakano is tucked just a few stops away from Shinjuku and is an absolute haven for anime, manga, and pop culture lovers. The legendary Nakano Broadway is packed with quirky shops selling vintage toys, rare collectibles, and all things otaku. Beyond that, Nakano is also home to loads of hidden izakayas and ramen joints, giving you a proper taste of local Tokyo life. It’s the perfect mix of nerdy nostalgia and tasty adventures.
Ryogoku is the heart of sumo wrestling in Tokyo, and you can feel the tradition the moment you step out of the station. Home to the Ryogoku Kokugikan (sumo stadium), this area lets you catch live matches if you’re lucky—or just spot a sumo wrestler grabbing lunch at a local chanko nabe (sumo stew) spot. Beyond sumo, there’s the Edo-Tokyo Museum and loads of little temples and museums that give you a peek into old-school Tokyo. It’s a chill mix of culture, history and big bowls of hearty food.
Koenji is your go-to if you’re into punk vibes, underground music, and retro fashion. This laid-back neighbourhood has a buzzing artsy scene, with second-hand shops, vinyl record stores, and small live music venues tucked into every corner. It’s also a hot spot for street art and chill cafes, making it a cool escape from the big city hustle. Whether you’re browsing for vintage finds or enjoying the creative atmosphere, Koenji offers a unique local experience.
7. Enjoy Seasonal Flowers
Japan is famous for its stunning seasonal flowers and trees. From the soft pink hues of cherry blossom season in early spring to the vibrant sunflowers of summer, there’s always something blooming. It honestly feels like there’s a never-ending cycle of new flowers coming into season.
Once one fades, another is already on the rise. A great way to enjoy this natural beauty is by taking a day trip out of Tokyo—there are loads of flower fields and parks around areas like Mount Fuji, which are absolutely breathtaking. It’s the perfect escape when you want a break from city life and a chance to experience Japan’s landscapes in full colour.
8. Visit a Shrine and Make a Prayer
If you’re planning to settle into life in Japan, visiting a local shrine is a beautiful way to connect with the culture. You don’t have to go far—your own neighbourhood probably has a small shrine just waiting to be discovered. Of course, you can also visit larger, well-known ones around the city. Each shrine honours different deities and offers blessings for things like love, health, and good fortune.
Before visiting, it’s a good idea to do a bit of research on the history of the shrine and learn the basic etiquette. For instance, when entering the shrine grounds, it’s customary to bow once as a sign of respect to the deities. Taking part in these rituals not only shows appreciation for Japanese traditions but also gives you a deeper sense of what it means to be part of the community.
9. Eat Fresh Sashimi and Sushi
If you think you’ve had great sushi before, Tokyo is about to raise the bar. Fresh sashimi and sushi here are on another level. One of the best places to experience this is the Toyosu Fish Market, near Shijomae Station, which you can reach easily on the Yurikamome Line. It’s a dream for seafood lovers—from witnessing tuna auctions to buying fish straight off the morning boats.
Up on the 4th floor, you’ll find a bunch of local eateries where you can feast on fresh sushi, sashimi, and even dishes like tonkatsu. Just a heads up—the queues can get long, especially for the most popular restaurants—so plan ahead or go early to beat the rush.
10. Go on a Day Trip
One of the best parts about living in Tokyo is how easy it is to get out of the city. Thanks to the efficient JR train system and Shinkansen (bullet trains), you can hop on a train and find yourself surrounded by mountains, lakes, or beaches in just a few hours. Whether you’re heading to Kasumigaura Bay, Karuizawa, or a quiet onsen town, day trips are an amazing way to unwind, see a different side of Japan, and add some variety to your routine.
Check out our detailed blog post on day trips for ideas on where to go and how to get there—you’ll be surprised how much you can see in just one day!
11. Do a Full Day of Tourist Attractions
It might sound strange, but dedicating a full day to seeing all the major tourist attractions can actually help you feel more like a local in the long run. Once you’ve ticked off the big names—like Tokyo Tower, Asakusa, Shibuya Crossing, and Harajuku—you’ll free yourself up to explore lesser-known, more local areas without feeling like you’ve missed out.
Plus, hitting all the major spots in one go gives you a better sense of the city’s layout and vibe. You’ll understand where the crowds go, what to expect, and what kind of places you might want to revisit later on your own terms. We’ve also got a guide here to help you plan your one-day tourist blitz like a pro.
12. Make Use of the Tokyo Wide Pass
The JR Tokyo Wide Pass is a great option for non-Japanese passport holders, including foreign residents living in Japan. It costs 15,000 yen (about 100 USD) and is valid for three consecutive days. The pass can be used on most JR trains and some non-JR lines across a wide area around Tokyo, covering popular spots like Karuizawa, the Fuji Five Lakes, Nikko, and the Izu Peninsula. It’s perfect for weekend getaways or short trips outside the city. You can buy it at major JR stations in the Tokyo area or online, and it includes free seat reservations—just note that it doesn’t cover the Tokaido Shinkansen.
13. Try an Immersive Cultural Experience
Tokyo and its surrounding area are packed with amazing cultural experiences that let you dive deeper into Japanese life beyond just sightseeing. Joining local activities is a great way to connect with the culture and the community. From cooking classes where you can learn to make authentic Japanese dishes, to matcha workshops that guide you through the traditional tea-making process, there’s something for everyone.
You can also try your hand at calligraphy, kimono dressing, or even make your own Japanese knife with a local craftsman. These hands-on experiences are not just fun—they give you real stories to share, new skills to take home, and often new friends too. We offer a bunch of curated cultural activities to help you explore the real Japan—check them out here!
14. Go to a Local Museum
Tokyo is full of unique and underrated museums that offer a deeper, more personal look into Japanese culture and history. From quiet photography galleries to fascinating spots exploring the impact of natural disasters on Japan, these museums give you insight you won’t find just by Googling. You’ll see real artefacts, detailed exhibits, and stories that help you connect with the country’s roots.
For something a little offbeat, check out the Meguro Parasitological Museum—odd, but super interesting—or step into the past at the Shitamachi Museum, which recreates the vibe of old-school Tokyo. There’s also the Tobacco and Salt Museum, surprisingly packed with cultural gems that show how everyday life in Japan has evolved. These lesser-known spots are a great way to experience a more local, authentic side of Tokyo.
15. Go Thrift Shopping
Thrift shopping in Tokyo is an adventure in itself. It’s not just affordable—it’s also sustainable and a great way to find one-of-a-kind fashion pieces. Thrifting has become super popular recently, which means there are loads of second-hand shops all over the city. Big names like Chicago, Flamingo, and NEW YORK JOE EXCHANGE are a great place to start.
For the full experience, head to Shimokitazawa or Koenji, two districts known as thrift heaven. With constant imports and rotating stock, every visit feels like a new treasure hunt. Whether you’re after vintage streetwear, designer steals, or funky accessories, you’re bound to walk away with something cool.
16. Enjoy a Local Park
Stepping away from the city’s hustle and into a local park can do wonders for your mood. Tokyo has loads of beautiful green spaces where you can relax, people-watch, or just take a peaceful stroll. Many parks are huge and packed with things to do—Ueno Park, for example, has museums, a zoo, and lots of food stalls all within its grounds.
These parks aren’t just great for a bit of fresh air—they’re part of local life. Grab a bento box, take a book, and enjoy some quiet time surrounded by nature and Tokyoites doing the same.
17. Check Out an Animal Cafe
Animal cafes are super popular in Japan and honestly, they’re as cute as they sound. You can enjoy your coffee while chilling with everything from hedgehogs and owls to mini pigs. While these cafés are popular with tourists, they’re still a fun way to spend a few hours, especially on a rainy day or when you’re in need of a serotonin boost.
Just make sure to double-check the café’s policies and that the animals are being well cared for—some places are more ethical than others.
18. Enjoy Street Food
Street food is one of the best ways to experience local flavours without breaking the bank. From yakitori (grilled skewers) to takoyaki (octopus balls) and steamed buns, the variety is endless—and seriously delicious. You’ll find food stalls in busy neighbourhoods, near temples, or at festivals throughout the year.
Certain areas like Ameya-Yokocho in Ueno and Sunamachi Ginza are especially famous for their traditional street food vibes.
19. Meet People Through Events and Meetups
Living in a new city can get lonely, so making connections is super important. Luckily, Tokyo has loads of events and meetups happening all the time—whether you’re into language exchanges, board games, photography, or yoga, there’s probably a group for it.
Apps like Bumble BFF and Tinder can also help you make friends (or more than friends 👀), and turning an online connection into a real-life one is easier than you’d think. All it takes is showing up with an open mind!
20. Explore Tokyo’s Nightlife
Let’s be honest—Tokyo’s nightlife is next level. Whether you’re into low-key bars or full-on clubs, there’s something for every vibe. Areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku are packed with bars, izakayas, and clubs, and you’ll always find a crowd ready to dance, drink, and make new friends.
Nightlife is also a great way to meet people and let loose after a long week. And hey, after a few drinks, chatting with strangers becomes a whole lot easier. Just remember to drink responsibly and know your way home—those late-night trains can be a maze!
Living Like a Local Starts with Curiosity
Exploring Tokyo like a local isn’t about ditching the tourist spots completely—it’s about going a little deeper. It’s saying yes to neighbourhood strolls, small museums, cultural workshops, and hidden food joints. It’s taking time to understand the traditions, trying out everyday activities, and chatting with people who call this city home. The more curious you are, the more Tokyo opens up in the most unexpected and rewarding ways.
So next time you’re planning your days in the city, think beyond the big landmarks. Book that cooking class, visit that quirky museum, or spend an afternoon wandering around a neighbourhood you’ve never heard of. These small, authentic experiences are what’ll stick with you—and they’ll help you feel less like a visitor, and more like you’re part of it all.
