15 Best Places to Visit in Tokyo, Japan (2026)

Discover the top places to visit in Tokyo — from iconic towers and temples to leafy parks and vibrant neighborhoods. A perfect guide for first-time visitors!

Tokyo is a city of dazzling contrasts — where centuries-old temples sit just blocks away from ultramodern skyscrapers, and serene parks hide behind neon-lit streets. In this guide, we take you on a journey through the very best places Tokyo has to offer: from panoramic viewpoints atop its iconic towers, to historic shrines and bustling districts teeming with culture and flavor.

Whether you’re seeking tradition, urban thrills, or peaceful escapes, Tokyo has something for everyone. Read on to discover the must-see spots that should be on every traveler’s itinerary.

Note: If you are visiting Japan for the first time, here is the perfect 2 week itinerary! 

Best Places to visit in Tokyo

1. Shinjuku

Home to a bustling shopping area, a variety of restaurants and clubs, and a selection of arcade and gaming stores; Shinjuku is where the city heads to for a good night and is our first best places to visit in Tokyo. We stayed here during our 5 days in Tokyo and it was perfect for sightseeing and nightlife.

Shinjuku Station is the world’s busiest railway station – making it easy to get lost! Some of Tokyo’s best hotels can be found in the skyscraper district just west of the station along with the Metropolitan Government Building.

Restaurants in the Kabukicho ‘red light’ distract are typically open from 11 am – 12 am with some open 24 hours whilst the clubs typically open around 7 or 8 pm and stay open until the early hours of the morning. Check out Omoide Yokocho; also known as memory lane and nicknamed Piss Alley; a network of alleyways with some of the best eateries in Tokyo.

For those visiting Japan for the first time, this is a great place to stay, with easy access to the rest of Tokyo and cities beyond.

2. Meiji Shrine

Our next best places to visit in Tokyo has to be Meiji Shrine; a must on your Japan bucket list. Completed in 1920, this shrine is a popular choice for anyone visiting Tokyo. The shrine was destroyed during the Second World War and later rebuilt and dedicated to Emperor Meiji.

Walk through the massive Torii Gate and find yourself surrounded by thousands of trees as you walk the ten-minute stretch from the gates to the main complex of the shrine, where you come across the tranquil grounds and explore the buildings, temple, and gardens.

Open from sunrise to sunset with no entrance fee, the best way to get to Meiji Shrine is by taking the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station, with the entrance just a few steps from the station.

3. Tokyo Tower

For a great view of Tokyo, head to Tokyo Tower; an iconic structure of Tokyo and not dissimilar to the Eiffel Tower. In fact, you can even treat yourself to some macaroons from the main observatory café. If you are visiting with a partner, this is one of the more romantic places to visit in Tokyo and we loved it!

Open 9 am to 11 pm and costs 900 yen for the main observatory (150m) and another 700 yen to visit the special observatory (250m). Get the Metro Oedo Line to Akabanebashi station and the tower is just a 5-minute walk from Akabanebashi Gate.

4. Tokyo Skytree

Our next best places to visit in Tokyo is Tokyo Skytree. Soaring 634 metres above the city, is one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit for breathtaking panoramic views. Its two observation decks offer sweeping vistas that stretch across Tokyo’s sprawling skyline, with Mount Fuji visible on clear days.

Beyond the views, the Skytree complex includes Tokyo Solamachi, a multi-storey shopping and dining hub filled with boutiques, souvenir stores, and restaurants, making it a great place to spend a few hours. Whether you visit during the day for crisp cityscapes or at night to see Tokyo illuminated in dazzling lights, the Skytree delivers an unforgettable perspective of Japan’s capital.

You can catch the Tobu Skytree Line from Asakusa station or catch the Tosi Asakusa line or the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon line to Oshiage SkyTree station. Enjoy views of the city from this incredible best places to visit in Tokyo; the Tokyo Skytree.

Ticket time slots are available from 8 am to 8.30 pm with day tickets with no time assignment costing 2060 yen and advanced purchase tickets with an assigned day and time costing 2560 yen.

5. Tsukiji Fish market

For foodies, the fish market is another one of the best places to visit in Tokyo. You can watch the fish auction, try fresh fish and enjoy an authentic Japanese tradition.

Check the official market calendar for open dates and remember that early morning tuna auctions begin promptly at 5 am and people line up for auction tickets from 4 am, with 120 entrance tickets available. Registration is free but you need to get there as early as you can. It may be worth watching some youtube clips of the auction to decide whether you want to visit at this time in the morning.

If you decide to go early then you will need to walk or organize a taxi in advance as there are no subways at this time and it may be difficult to get a taxi from the street at this time.

Creative Tip: When you are packing for Tokyo, bring layers; the market can get quite chilly in the early morning. 

6. Senso-ji

Open from 6 am to 5 pm with free entrance, the best way to get to Senso-ji temple is to take the JR Yamanote Line from Tokyo Station to Kanda Station then transfer to the Ginza subway line to Asakusa. If you’re heading from Shinjuku Station, jump on the orange JR Chup Line to Kanda station and change here for Ginza to Asakusa.

Explore the Buddhist temple of Senso-ji; a bright and colorful temple as well as Tokyo’s oldest. This is a stunning area to explore, with a shopping street leading up to the temple offering Japanese souvenirs and traditional snacks.

7. Harajuku shopping district

The Harajuku shopping district is Tokyo’s vibrant hub of youth culture, bold fashion, and quirky boutiques, making it an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience the city’s playful side.

Stroll down Takeshita Street, a lively pedestrian lane packed with vintage shops, pop-culture stores, and colourful cafés serving towering crepes and Instagram-worthy treats. Just a short walk away, Omotesandō Avenue offers a stylish contrast with its high-end boutiques, designer flagships, and modern architecture.

Whether you’re hunting for unique souvenirs, exploring Japan’s trendsetting fashion scene, or simply soaking up the energetic atmosphere, Harajuku delivers an unforgettable snapshot of Tokyo’s creativity and style.

8. Tokyo Imperial Palace

Open from 9 am to 5 pm with admission free. There are various ways to access the Imperial Palace, with several entrance gates around the complex. Detailed options can be found here.

The Imperial Palace is named so because of its residence of the Imperial family. It is a fascinating complex, full of ancient stone bridges, beautiful gardens, luxurious architecture, and fascinating museums.

9. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku is one of the best free things to do in Tokyo, offering viewpoints in the city, from its twin observation decks.

Rising 243 metres above the streets, the building lets you admire Tokyo’s endless skyline, from towering skyscrapers to – on clear days – the distant silhouette of Mount Fuji.

Inside, you’ll also find small cafés, souvenir shops, and helpful information counters, making it an easy and budget-friendly stop for first-time visitors. Its central location in Shinjuku means you can pair your visit with nearby attractions, lively nightlife, and some of the city’s best dining options.

10. Akihabara

Our next best places to visit in Tokyo is Akihabara, often called Electric Town. This is the ultimate destination for fans of anime, gaming, and Japanese pop culture.

This neon-soaked district buzzes with multi-storey arcades, specialty electronics shops, manga stores, and themed cafés, creating an exciting, immersive world for visitors. Whether you’re browsing retro video games, hunting for rare figurines, or stepping into a themed café for a uniquely Japanese experience, Akihabara offers endless discoveries.

Even if you’re not an avid gamer or anime enthusiast, the electric energy and vibrant streets make it one of Tokyo’s most memorable and fascinating neighbourhoods to explore.

11. Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Sea

Opening times vary from 8 or 9am to 10pm. Tickets cost 6900 yen for one day in one park; multi park tickets are only available when purchasing 3 or 4 day passes. From Shinjuku station you can catch the JR Chuo Line rapid train to Tokyo station, then change to get either the JR Keiyo line or the JR Musashino line to Maihama.

Disney parks do often appear on my top things to do list because a) I am a big kid, b) I love Disney and c) it is a great way to spend a day, having thrills and fun whilst enjoying a typical theme park with the countries own twist. If you have at least 10 days in Japan, why not visit the Disney parks then head down to Osaka and visit Universal Studios too!

Both Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Sea are fantastic parks and perfect for families, so choose one or spend two days exploring both.

12. The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation

Open from 10 am to 5 pm with tickets costing 620 yen. Catch the JR Saikyo Line to the Tokyo Teleport Station, walk through the shopping center as you exit the station, and follow directions for the museum.

Tokyo is known for its innovative and developing technology, head to the National Museum to catch the famous Asimo Robot.

13. Shinjuku Gyoen

The park is open from 9 am to 4.30 pm with a 200 yen entrance fee. It is just a ten-minute walk from the new south exit of JR Shinjuku Station and a 5-minute walk from Shinjukugyoenmae Station.

As one of Tokyo’s largest parks, Shinjuku Gyoen is a popular choice for many. The park is comprised of three different gardens; a traditional Japanese landscape garden, a French symmetrically arrange garden, and an open English landscape. Head here in the spring to catch the beautiful cherry blossoms.

14. Tokyo Dome

Whilst in Tokyo, try to catch a baseball game, American football game, or concert at the Tokyo Dome; Tokyo Dome is one of the more exciting places to visit in Tokyo. The architecture is impressive in itself and is also surrounded by various rides. A one-day pass for all the rides costs 3900 yen or some rides can be paid for individually.

You can catch the JR Chuo-Sobu line or the Mita line to Suido Bashi Street or the Marunouchi and Namboku line to Korakuen Street.

15. Mount Fuji

Standing at 3776 meters high, Mount Fuji is Japan if not Asia’s most famous Volcano and one of the best places to visit in Tokyo. It can be seen from Tokyo on clear days or you can enjoy a walk around Fuji Five Lake.

You can climb the volcano during July and August with some guesthouses on the lower levels of the mountain for those wishing to climb the mountain for sunrise. Climbing the mountain can take 5-7 hours with various routes available.

Ways to see Mt Fuji:

Fuji Five Lakes (Especially Lake Kawaguchiko)

• One of the best and most accessible areas for clear views of Mount Fuji.
• Enjoy lakeside walks, scenic photography spots, onsen resorts, and seasonal views like cherry blossoms or autumn leaves.
• Easily reached from Tokyo by bus or train.

Hakone

• A popular hot-spring region with ropeways, lake cruises, and traditional ryokans.
• Ride the Hakone Ropeway or cruise Lake Ashi for stunning Fuji views on clear days.
• JR Pass-friendly, making it a simple day trip or overnight escape.

Mount Fuji Views from Tokyo

• Catch a glimpse of the mountain from observation decks such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Buildingor Tokyo Skytree.
• Best visibility early in the morning or on crisp winter days.

Climbing Mount Fuji (Seasonal)

• Available only during the official climbing season from July to September.
• A bucket-list adventure offering sunrise views from the summit.

Things to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

Best Places to Visit in Tokyo FAQ

What are the must-see places in Tokyo for first-time visitors?
First-time visitors should explore iconic spots like Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, Shinjuku, and Harajuku; all some of the best places to visit in Tokyo. These areas offer a perfect mix of culture, shopping, food, and sightseeing.

Where can I get the best views of Tokyo?
Top viewpoints include the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (free), Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, and the Shibuya Sky rooftop. Each offers amazing city panoramas, especially at sunset.

What is the best neighborhood to stay in when visiting Tokyo?
For convenience, stay in Shinjuku or Shibuya, both packed with restaurants, nightlife, and easy transport links. Asakusaand Ueno are great for a more traditional vibe, while Ginza suits luxury travelers.

Where can I shop for fashion in Tokyo?
Head to Harajuku for youth fashion and quirky boutiques, Shibuya for trendy streetwear, and Ginza for high-end designer brands. Akihabara is perfect for anime, gaming, and electronics shopping.

Is Mount Fuji visible from Tokyo?
Yes, on clear days you can see Mount Fuji from spots like the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Tokyo Skytree, and Shibuya Sky. For guaranteed views, visit Lake Kawaguchiko or Hakone.

What is the best time of year to visit Tokyo?
Spring (March–April) brings cherry blossoms and mild weather, while autumn (October–November) offers beautiful foliage. Winter has crisp skies and great visibility, and summer is lively but hot and humid.

How many days do I need in Tokyo?
Most travelers enjoy 4–5 days, which is enough to explore major neighborhoods, enjoy top attractions, and take a day trip to places like Kamakura or Mount Fuji.

Is Tokyo expensive to visit?
Tokyo can be pricey, but budget travelers can save by using convenience stores for meals, riding the subway, staying in business hotels, and visiting free attractions like parks and observation decks.

What are the best day trips from Tokyo?
Popular day trips include Hakone, Nikko, Kamakura, Yokohama, and the Fuji Five Lakes region. These offer nature, culture, and unique sightseeing experiences.

Do I need to speak Japanese to visit Tokyo?
Not necessarily. English signage is common in train stations and major attractions, and many locals know basic English. Learning a few Japanese phrases can enhance your visit.