Tokyo is a city of captivating contrasts, blending ancient traditions with futuristic innovations at every turn making for many can't miss places. From the quiet reverence of historic shrines to the pulse of neon-lit districts, Tokyo offers unforgettable experiences that showcase the best of Japan. This guide highlights Tokyo, from dawn to dusk, allowing you to make the most of each unique part of the city.
A Guide to Can't Miss Places in Tokyo, Japan
Explore Tokyo's Streets in Style with Go-Karting Adventures
While you can't actually tour all the places on this list via Go-Kart, this fun activity is definitely on top of my list of recommendations for Tokyo and a great way to see a the city from a different perspective.
There are a number of different operators providing go-karting tours that take riders through some of Tokyo's most famous districts, including Shinjuku, Roppongi, and Akihabara. Depending on how busy it is, you and a group of 1-7 others will dress up in fun costumes, hop into go-karts, and be led around by a guide through the neon-lit streets, taking Tokyo's energy from an entirely new perspective. These go-karting tours are unlike anything else, allowing participants to weave through bustling streets and iconic landmarks.
As you race down Tokyo's avenues, you'll be immersed in the lively surroundings, from the flashing lights of Shinjuku's entertainment district to Akihabara's electric town, renowned for its anime and tech culture. The exhilarating blend of sightseeing and adventure provides a rush, letting you experience the city at street level.
For this adventure, remember to bring an international driver's permit, as it's required to participate in go-karting tours. Booking an afternoon tour allows you to witness the city's transformation as the sun sets, with neon lights flickering to life, painting Tokyo in a magical, almost surreal glow.
Discover the New Toyosu Fish Market
For a firsthand look at Tokyo's bustling seafood industry, start your day at Toyosu Fish Market. Now the city's primary hub for wholesale fish sales and home to the renowned tuna auctions, Toyosu offers visitors an intimate glimpse into the heart of Japan's seafood culture. Located in Koto City, this market was designed with modern facilities that prioritize visitor access while preserving the authenticity of the auction atmosphere.
Arriving early grants you access to the designated viewing areas, where you can observe the lively bidding wars among Tokyo's fish vendors. As you watch, you'll notice the rapid pace of the auctioneers, the flash of hand signals, and the intense competition for the highest quality tuna.
After witnessing this unique spectacle, explore the market's expansive collection of restaurants and stalls serving the day's freshest catches. Indulge in a sushi breakfast crafted from the morning's auctions, or try kaisendon, a rice bowl topped with fresh seafood that showcases the market's variety. And, if you have time, also consider visiting the rooftop garden. It has nearly 360 degree views of the surrounding city, Tokyo Bay and Mt Fuji in the distance.
Step into a World of Digital Art at teamLab Borderless
teamLab Borderless isn’t just a digital art museum; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in a world where art and technology move in sync with you. Every exhibit is designed to respond to your presence, making each visitor an active part of the artwork and creating moments that blur the line between the digital and real.
Forest of Resonating Lamps: Step into this enchanting space, where each movement triggers a shift in color, casting a kaleidoscope of hues around you. The lamps seem to breathe and change with your presence, creating a meditative and immersive experience.
Crystal World: Enter a shimmering landscape of suspended LED lights that sparkle and shift around you, giving the sensation of walking among stars. This mesmerizing display offers endless photo opportunities as the lights seem to float in an ethereal, infinite space.
Memory of Topography: Stroll along a digital shoreline where waves crash around your feet, responding to your steps in real-time. This exhibit captures the surreal feeling of walking on water, with waves that ebb and flow as you move through the space.
En Tea House: Pause for tea in this serene setting, where digital flowers bloom directly in your cup. Each blossom responds to motion, adding an unexpected moment of wonder and beauty to the quiet ritual of sipping tea.
Tickets for teamLab Borderless often sell out, so purchasing them online in advance is highly recommended. Visiting in the afternoon provides a quieter atmosphere, allowing you to fully absorb each exhibit’s magic without the crowds.
Explore Tsukiji Outer Market for Fresh Food and Local Finds
Though Toyosu now handles the wholesale fish trade, Tsukiji Outer Market remains a beloved destination for food lovers and anyone interested in Japanese culinary traditions. Unlike Toyosu's wholesale focus, Tsukiji buzzes with energy as vendors offer a variety of foods and goods, from ready-to-eat treats to culinary tools. Wander through stalls brimming with fresh sushi, steaming bowls of ramen, and Japan's iconic tamagoyaki, the fluffy rolled omelet is often enjoyed as a breakfast staple.
One popular item is the grilled eel skewers, caramelized to perfection and bursting with a smoky-sweet flavor. Vendors prepare them right before you, filling the market with their rich, irresistible aroma. As you meander through the rows of food stalls, be sure to look out for other specialty items like uni (sea urchin) and toro (fatty tuna), prized ingredients that are as fresh as they come.
Beyond the food, Tsukiji is also home to an impressive selection of Japanese kitchenware. You'll find beautifully crafted ceramics, hand-forged knives, and intricately designed chopsticks, each offering a chance to bring a piece of Japanese craftsmanship home. Spend some time admiring the attention to detail in each item. Each knife and ceramic piece carries its own story and speaks to Japan's dedication to quality.
Immerse Yourself in the Art of Yayoi Kusama at the Yayoi Kusama Museum
The Yayoi Kusama Museum in Shinjuku pays homage to one of Japan's most iconic contemporary artists, known for her distinctive polka dots and immersive infinity rooms. The museum's rotating exhibits provide a deep dive into Kusama's artistic journey, from her early paintings to her surreal, larger-than-life installations.
Kusama's signature motifs are on display and they draw visitors into her world of bold colors and mesmerizing patterns. The museum's reservation-only policy ensures a peaceful, intimate environment, allowing each visitor to experience the works up close.
After exploring the museum, take a stroll through Shinjuku's quieter neighborhoods. Small galleries, cozy cafés, and quaint boutiques abound, inviting you to reflect on the immersive art experience you've just had.
Dive into Tokyo's Heartbeat at Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing, often called the busiest intersection in the world, is well-photographed and known across the internet. But that doesn't make it any less of a spectacle to experience yourself. Here, the organized chaos of Tokyo comes to life as hundreds—sometimes thousands—of people flow across the streets in perfect unison with each change of the traffic lights. It's a mesmerizing display of the city's efficiency, energy, and distinctive rhythm.
Just steps from the crossing, you'll find the famous Hachiko Statue. This bronze statue commemorates the story of Hachiko, an Akita dog known for his unyielding loyalty to his owner, even years after his passing. The statue has since become a beloved symbol of loyalty, drawing locals and tourists alike. Nearby, Shibuya 109, a multi-story shopping paradise, awaits those eager to dive into Tokyo's trendsetting fashion scene, offering various styles ranging from chic streetwear to avant-garde fashion.
Discover the Serenity of Meiji Shrine
In a forested area in Shibuya, Meiji Shrine provides a peaceful retreat from Tokyo's urban hustle. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, this Shinto shrine is surrounded by towering trees and winding paths that lead visitors through tranquil gardens. The approach to the shrine is lined with towering torii gates, setting a serene atmosphere that encourages quiet reflection.
As you explore, you'll encounter traditional practices like writing wishes on ema (wooden plaques), which are hung up as offerings. One unique feature of Meiji Shrine is the colorful display of sake barrels donated by brewers across Japan to honor the shrine's spirits. These barrels, intricately decorated, represent a longstanding Japanese tradition of reverence and celebration.
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the shrine is quiet. It's a perfect place to pause, breathe, and soak in the serene beauty of Tokyo's spiritual heritage.
Evening Spectacle at the Robot Restaurant
Embrace Tokyo's quirky side with a visit to the Robot Restaurant in Kabukicho, where a high-energy show awaits, complete with flashing lights, dancing robots, and anime-inspired visuals. This unique attraction captures Tokyo's playful spirit with a sensory extravaganza that combines pop culture with sci-fi elements.
Booking tickets in advance is a good idea, as the show's popularity often leads to sellouts. For a contrasting experience, visit the nearby Samurai Museum, where interactive exhibits and live samurai performances offer a deeper look into Japan's feudal history.
Conclude Your Day with City Views from Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree
End your Tokyo adventure with panoramic views from either Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree. Tokyo Tower, modeled after the Eiffel Tower, lights up in a warm red and white glow each night, offering a nostalgic charm that captures Tokyo's unique blend of old and new. Meanwhile, Tokyo Skytree, Japan's tallest structure, offers sweeping views that stretch all the way to Mt. Fuji on clear days.
To make the most of the view, plan your visit around sunset, when the city's skyline transitions from day to night, and the lights of Tokyo begin to sparkle. It's a sight that beautifully encapsulates the city's vibrant energy and grandeur, providing a fitting end to a day full of exploration.
Where to Stay
Prince Park Tower Tokyo
For an unforgettable stay with sweeping views of Tokyo’s iconic skyline, the Prince Park Tower Tokyo offers a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and unbeatable location. Nestled in the heart of Shiba Park, this elegant high-rise hotel places you right next to Tokyo Tower, offering spectacular vistas of the tower and the surrounding cityscape from almost every room.
The hotel’s spacious rooms and suites are designed with modern Japanese aesthetics, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that invite natural light and stunning views. Guests can unwind with premium amenities like a full-service spa, an indoor pool, and a natural hot spring bath—a rare treat in central Tokyo. Dining options abound, with multiple restaurants and bars offering everything from authentic Japanese fare to international cuisine, all served in stylish settings with breathtaking views.
The Prince Park Tower’s location provides a peaceful escape from the city's bustle while keeping you close to top attractions, including Zojoji Temple, Roppongi, and the shopping districts of Ginza and Shibuya.
Final Thoughts
Tokyo's magic lies in its blend of tradition, innovation, and creativity. Every corner introduces something new, from ancient temples to ultra-modern skyscrapers, creating a travel experience that captivates every visitor. Embrace each moment, from dawn at Tsukiji Market to dusk atop Tokyo Skytree, as you uncover the city's many faces and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and tastes that make Tokyo truly unforgettable.
Ready to experience Tokyo's contrasts firsthand? Start planning your Tokyo adventure and prepare for a journey of discovery, inspiration, and memories that will last a lifetime.
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