Having lived in Tokyo for a few years now, I get asked all the time by visiting friends, family, and distant friends-of-a-friend-of-a-friend what the top Tokyo bucket list must-do things are. And I get it, Tokyo is just one of those places where there are limitless things to do, see, and experience, so creating a one-week itinerary is tough.
So, to help you make sure you don’t miss out on some of the best experiences Tokyo has to offer, I’m sharing this complete Tokyo bucket list. I’ve tried to make sure to include something for everyone, and whilst there are some touristy spots worth visiting, there are also quite a few hidden gem experiences that you might not otherwise know.
The Best Way to See All of Tokyo
The reality is that there’s no way to fit absolutely everything on this Tokyo bucket list in a matter of days or even weeks. But, if you want to see the best of Tokyo in a short amount of time, there’s no better way than on a Tokyo tour. We offer group, private, and totally personalised Tokyo adventures to help you make the most of your experience.
Tokyo Sightseeing Spots
This is really the “if you went to Tokyo and didn’t see xyz, then did you really go to Tokyo at all”? That doesn’t mean they’re not really cool and worth a stop to snap a photo (they absolutely are), but you also don’t need to allocate more than an hour or two for exploring them!
1. Tokyo Tower
It’s iconic, it’s beautiful, it’s Tokyo Tower. You can visit the actual tower and even take an elevator up to the top deck for some nice views and spectacular architecture, but I think the tower is best seen from the streets in Roppongi. The view from near Roppongi Station is especially great (take exit 5 and walk towards Donki), or take it in from above from the 52nd floor of Roppongi Hills observatory.
2. Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree sits along the Sumida River and easily stands out against the much lower skyline. I like the view best from across the river, making it an easy stop before/after exploring Asakusa and Senso-Ji (more on this below). Similar to Tokyo Tower, you also have the option to take an elevator to the top observation deck.
3. Shibuya Sky
The famous skyscraper-top elevator with views from Shibuya across the rest of Tokyo. You’ll need to book the experience a little in advance, just make sure to consider what time of day you’d like to go, as the view changes spectacularly from during the day, through sunset and into the night.
4. Shibuya Crossing (and Hachiko)
The busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, which is…probably a little smaller than you’re imagining. Although the sheer number of people who line up to cross it every 90 seconds is admittedly mind-boggling and quite cool to experience. Make sure to also catch the Hachiko dog statue on the station side of the crossing for a bonus sightseeing stop.
5. Takeshita Street
You might be surprised to see this under sightseeing instead of shopping, but as someone who has lived in Tokyo for years, I have to be honest: no local really buys anything on Takeshita Street except for strawberries. It’s a place for taking photos and taking in the unique subculture sights of Harajuku, which is well worth a stop…even if it’s just so you can say you went!
6. Shinjuku’s Giant 3D Cat
Listen, the 3D cat billboard by Shinjuku Station is cool, but it’s also just a 3D billboard. Luckily, after watching the cat dress up, move around, and hear it loudly meowing, there’s a whole lot to do around it. It’s in the heart of Shinjuku with potentially endless shops, restaurants, and bars around to enjoy.
Tokyo Temples and Shrines
One of the best things about Tokyo is that you can find the most wonderful local shrines and temples on any unassuming street. That being said, there are some temples that are particularly worth a dedicated visit.
7. Senso-Ji
Senso-Ji is considered to be Tokyo’s most important Buddhist temple. It is usually quite crowded with other sightseers, but for good reason. The temple is beautiful. There’s the iconic giant lantern, the lively Nakamise street in front of it for souvenir shopping, and delicious street food stalls to the side.
8. Meiji Jingu
This is actually my personal favourite shrine in Tokyo (I’ve visited probably 100 times and would go again in a heartbeat). This is because of the grounds around the shrine more than anything. You walk through giant torii gates to enter the approximately 170 acres of woodland paths that surround Meiji Jingu. It’s my pocket of peace in between the chaos of Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya.
9. Nezu Shrine
If you don’t have time to visit the Toshogu Shrine in Nikko, then Nezu Shrine is the next best thing. This picture-perfect shrine in the North of Tokyo has almost 2,000 years of history (although the current site is just over 300 years old). It was modelled on the Toshogu Shrine, with bright colours and stunning wood carvings
10. Tennoji Temple
Tennoji Temple is another really special Buddhist temple in Tokyo that’s probably best known for the huge bronze sitting Buddha statue located on the grounds. It’s quite close to Ueno Park and Yanaka, so an easy add-on to a visit to either location.
11. Gotokuji Temple
You might know this better as the “Lucky Cat” temple, where you’ll find thousands of cat statues left as offerings. Gotokuji is a little bit more out of the way in Setagaya City, but it is a totally unique and very memorable Tokyo bucket list adventure.
Parks and Gardens in Tokyo
In my opinion, there’s almost no better way to spend a weekend afternoon in Tokyo than gently strolling through one of the many serenely pretty gardens and parks. Many are designed using traditional principles for creating peace and beauty, and are, without a doubt, Tokyo bucket list stops.
12. Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park is such a favourite place for so many local Tokyo-ites. It’s more relaxed than pretty much anywhere else in the city, where you’ll see couples holding hands, people playing music, and (if you’re lucky) the Tokyo Rockers dancing to 50s rock n’ roll on a Sunday afternoon.
13. Shinjuku Gyoen
One of my favourite places to bring people visiting Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen is a place that has a little bit of everything. There’s a tranquil Japanese garden, a tea house, a multi-story greenhouse, and even an incredibly aesthetic Starbucks.
14. Ueno Park
Ueno Park is a place that really never gets boring. My favourite part is the lake with a temple in the centre that transforms with every season, but there are also several museums within the park, and some sort of cultural festivals almost every weekend.
15. Hamarikyu Gardens
Hamarikyu Gardens is another wonderfully beautiful traditional Japanese garden in Tokyo. There’s a small entrance fee, which you immediately see the returns on when you step into the pristinely curated garden. One side also runs along the water, making it a little extra special.
16. Miyashita Park
Miyashita is unlike any other park on this list for a few reasons, but mainly because it’s on a rooftop in the middle of Shibuya. It might just be the coolest park in the city, with a skate park, climbing wall, and volleyball court all overlooking Shibuya’s skyline.
Tokyo Day Trips
Part of the Tokyo bucket list is visiting the nearby areas to get a completely different taste of Japan. This is just a short list of the day trips I think are a must-do, but of course, there are so many more that you could consider.
17. Nikko
Nikko is North of Tokyo in Tochigi prefecture, taking a little over two hours to reach by train. It’s home to the magnificent Toshogu Shrine, as well as really breathtaking natural landscapes of trees, mountains, and marshlands.
18. Kawaguchiko
Now, if we’re talking about a Japan bucket list (not just Tokyo), then seeing Mount Fuji has to be at the top. The easiest way to do this in a day trip from Tokyo is with a visit to Kawaguchiko. It’s one of Fuji’s Five Lakes, where there’s a lot to do, including taking a ropeway up a mountain for great Fuji views.
19. Okutama
I simply adore Okutama. It’s an area which is (funnily enough) along the Okutama River that’s absolutely perfect for hiking and getting out into nature. In summer, there are spots where you can escape the heat by dipping into the cold water, but the area is really lovely all year round.
20. Kamakura
Kamakura is a really popular Tokyo day trip, and I have to say it’s worth the train ride to see. The town is picture-perfect pretty, looking straight out of a slice-of-life anime. There are temples, the famous bronze Buddha, and it’s right next to the beach.
21. Enoshima
You can visit Enoshima on a dedicated day or along with a Kamakura trip. It’s an island reachable by a pedestrian bridge with a temple on the top that you can hike up to or take an outdoor escalator to reach (yes, really). There are countless food and souvenir stalls, and the view from the back is rumoured to be the inspiration for Hokusai’s “Great Wave” masterpiece.
Tokyo Otaku Experiences
It might not be for everyone, but everyone should try adding at least one otaku or anime-inspired activity to their Tokyo bucket list. It opens you up to an entirely different side of Tokyo that you really won’t find anywhere else.
22. Akihabara
It probably goes without saying that Akihabara is the ultimate Otaku destination. Along with the collectables shopping and arcades, you’ll find themed cafes, street eats, and gachapon on every corner.
23. Nakano Broadway
Nakano Broadway is a little bit of a less touristy Akihabara alternative. You’ll find so many retro and second-hand shops where (with a little time and determination) you can find some absolute collector’s treasures. It’s the perfect Tokyo bucket list add for anyone interested in figurines, trading cards, and especially manga.
24. Toei Animation Museum
Toei Animation Studios is where so many of THE greats were produced (Naruto, One Piece, Sailor Moon Eternal, to name just a few), and the Toei Animation Museum on the studio grounds in Nerima pays homage to it. It’s free to enter with rotating exhibitions and lots of cool things to see and do.
25. Unicorn Gundam
Bear with me, this is a LIFE-SIZED Unicorn Gundam that lights up and transforms in day and nighttime shows. It was relocated from Yokohama to Odaiba in Tokyo a couple of years ago, standing at an astonishing 19.7 metres tall.
26. Tokyo Anime Centre
The Tokyo Anime Centre is exactly what it sounds like: it’s the place where anime lovers, creators, and studios come together. They host frequent exhibitions and pop-ups for different anime, with a large manga collection, and a shop to buy merch from all your favourite shows.
27. The Pokémon Centres
Let’s get this out of the way: there are four Pokémon Centres in Tokyo. No, you don’t need to visit all of them, but you should make the trip to at least one. Each has its own exclusive merch, though, so if you do hit all four, you can complete your Tokyo Pokémon collection.
Tokyo Museums and Attractions
I’m sure you know this by now, but there’s really no shortage of unique things to do in Tokyo, and that doesn’t stop at the many, many, many museums and attractions you have to choose from. For the complete bucket list, these are the Tokyo museums you need to tick off…
28. Ghibli Museum
I know it’s a pain to get tickets, and it’s a little out of central Tokyo, but the Ghibli Museum truly is worth it. The ticket price is so reasonable, and from the second you step into the Ghibli Museum, you are transported into an absolute wonderland of fun and surprises. You have to get your ticket on the 10th of the month before, but you can check out our advanced reservation guide for more info on that.
29. Tokyo National Museum
This is one of the aforementioned Ueno Park museums, inside of which is a huge collection of Japan’s art and architectural treasures. The museum has amazing English support (including English audio guides) and is well worth the stop if you happen to be in Ueno.
30. National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)
I think Miraikan is one of the best places to take kids in the whole of Tokyo. It’s filled with so many interactive elements (including robots) to help teach children about the world of science, making it both a fun and educational experience. The museum is located in Odaiba, so you can make a day out of visiting the area with stops at TeamLab Planets and the giant Gundam.
31. Mori Art Museum
I really love the Mori Art Museum., iIt’s right at the top of Mori Hills Tower in Roppongi and, between you and me, is one of my favourite date spots in the city. There are always really innovative and interesting exhibitions featured at the museum, and the breathtaking 52nd-floor Minato-ku views are just the cherry on top.
32. TeamLab
I’ve been to the old teamLab Borderless, teamLab Planets, and the new teamLab Borderless, and I have to say, it is worth the ticket price. The immersive art galleries do have a novelty factor, but they’re also just so cool. If you’re choosing between the two, I’d say Planets is more immersive, whilst Borderless is more open space and freer.
Check out our top teamLab tips
33. Former Residence of Prince Asaka
I don’t know how more people don’t know about this place! It’s an absolutely incredible home and grounds that were built for Prince Asaka in the 1920s in an amazing collaboration between the top French Art Deco designers and Japan’s top architects. If you like Lalique, then this is especially fabulous, as vintage Lalique lighting and wall features are found throughout the house.
Tokyo Food & Drink Bucket List
This really needs to be a list all of its own, so I’m not going into every individual bite and dish you need to add to your Tokyo bucket list. Instead, I’m giving you the Tokyo-specific experiences that you need to do before you leave the city.
34. Tsukiji
Need I say more? Although I will. Tsukiji is the most famous fish market in Japan (maybe the whole world), where you can buy skewers, fresh sushi, even kitchenware and Japanese knives. Tsukiji also used to host a fish auction for the top chefs to buy their fish for the day, but due to the market’s popularity, that element has now moved.
35. Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai
Tsukiji is great, but I honestly prefer Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai and Fish Market. It’s much less touristy, with just as delicious food, and even more to do. There’s a free rooftop foot bath, local craft shops, and a real tuna auction in the early mornings.
36. Animal Cafes
These days, you can find cat cafes pretty much all over the world, but Tokyo really takes the concept to another level. There are the famous micro pig cafes, shiba cafes, hedgehog cafes, and even capybara cafes. Of course, do a little research beforehand to make sure you feel comfortable seeing the animals in that setting, but these really are a Tokyo bucket list item.
37. Go Izakaya Hopping
You just can’t skip over visiting an izakaya on a trip to Tokyo. These are the classic Japanese drinking establishments where you’ll see salarymen and friends relaxing, ordering beers and highballs, and sharing small plates. The atmosphere is really like nowhere else, being both relaxed and lively, and as soon as you sit down, you’re made to feel right at home.
38. Michelin-Star Meals
Did you know Tokyo has the highest concentration of Michelin Stars out of every city in the world? And the good news is that you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to experience one. There are a bunch of affordable Michelin Star establishments, including for late-night ramen, gyoza, and soba.
Shopping in Tokyo
There’s a reason I tell anyone visiting Tokyo to bring an empty suitcase: the city is a bit of a shopping haven. You have the obvious stops like Donki and Cosme, but there are some more specific Tokyo shopping destinations that have something particularly unique to offer.
39. Thrift Shopping
Okay, I have to be clear. Tokyo does have amazing thrift shopping, but you have to dig a little to find it. The areas to check out are Shimokitazawa, Koenji, and Kichijoji. Prepare to see a lot of slightly overpriced American collegiate clothing, but part that are some amazing items at amazing prices.
40. Uniqlo Flagship Store
If there ever was a Tokyo bucket list destination, it’s the 12-story Ginza Uniqlo store. Why does there need to be a 12-story Uniqlo? I’m not sure. However, I love that it exists. You can find literally anything, plus Tokyo exclusives and local collaborations that you really can’t find anywhere else. It’s also always fun to go from Ginza luxury to endless Uniqlo on the same street.
41. Kappabashi Street (Kitchen Street)
Kappabashi is famous for the back-to-back kitchenware, dishware, and Japanese knives shops that line the street. This is where real Japanese chefs cook, and a great destination for picking up really unique pottery items and kitchen utensils. If you’re interested in buying a Japanese knife in Tokyo, this is also a place I really recommend checking out.
42. Ueno Ameyoko
Don’t sleep on Ueno Ameyoko! The shopping area around Ueno Station is a goldmine, particularly for Japanese denim, but also jewellery, souvenirs, and thrift shopping. I especially love all the izakaya with outdoor seating that make the streets feel so alive, and give you a chance to sit and eat in between shopping.
43. Naka Meguro
Naka Meguro (or Nakame to locals) is such an underrated area for tourists in Tokyo. Along the river are chic boutiques and independent cosy coffee shops perfect for an afternoon of strolling and shopping. Of course, Nakame is very famous during the cherry blossom season, but I think it’s a must-visit all year round.
FAQs for Your Tokyo Bucket List
How many days is enough in Tokyo, Japan?
It really depends. I’ve lived here for a long time and still have so much to see and do! As a rule of thumb, I’d try to have at least five days to hit most of the Tokyo bucket list spots, with a week being ideal.
How much money do I need in Tokyo for a day?
You can get by on a shoestring budget or spend hundreds of thousands of yen a day. I would say a ¥8,500 to ¥10,000 daily budget should be enough to cover most things, excluding hotel costs.
Is Tokyo famous for anything?
Tokyo is famous for many things! Amazing food, lots of novel pop cultural experiences, and the sheer number of people who exist in the city. There are famous sights like Senso-Ji and Shibuya Crossing, and famous areas like Shinjuku and Akihabara.
Which part of Tokyo is best to visit?
This changes depending on your preferences. For shopping, try Ginza and Shimokitazawa, for sightseeing, I recommend Minato and Asakusa, and for nightlife, you’ll want to visit Shinjuku and Shibuya.
What is the coolest town in Tokyo?
There’s no definitive answer, as this is so subjective. To me, Kichijoji and Gakugei-daigaku are some of the coolest areas, but you might prefer Naka Meguro, Shimokitazawa, or Jimbocho.
