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Tokyo is one of those cities that completely exceeded my expectations. Before visiting, I had a long list of attractions I wanted to see, but some of my favorite memories came from experiences I never would have planned in advance.
From browsing kitchen shops in Kappabashi and eating conveyor belt sushi to relaxing at a Japanese head spa and watching the city glow at sunset, these are the Tokyo experiences that stood out most during my trip.
Whether you’re visiting Tokyo for four days or a full week, deciding what to prioritize can be challenging. From ancient temples and bustling food markets to rooftop viewpoints and quirky local experiences, here are 10 things to do in Tokyo I’d recommend adding to your Tokyo itinerary.
Quick List: Favorite Things to do in Tokyo
- Explore Kappabashi Kitchen Town
- Visit Senso-ji Temple
- Eat conveyor belt sushi
- Spend an evening in Shinjuku
- Experience Japanese convenience stores
- Visit Tsukiji Outer Market
- Explore Nezu Shrine
- Watch sunset from an observation deck
- Eat ramen at a local shop
- Book a Japanese head spa
These are my favorite things we did in Tokyo, but you can read about our full 6-day Tokyo itinerary for even more recommendations.
1. Shop for Japanese Knives and Ceramics in Kappabashi
Located between Asakusa and Ueno, Kappabashi Kitchen Town is one of Tokyo’s most unique shopping districts. The street stretches for nearly a mile and is packed with stores selling Japanese knives, ceramics, cookware, restaurant supplies, and the incredibly realistic plastic food displays you’ll see outside restaurants throughout Japan.
I originally tagged along because my husband wanted to shop for a kitchen knife, but it ended up being one of my favorite experiences in Tokyo. Even if you don’t cook, it’s fascinating to browse the shops and see artisans making food replicas by hand. If you’re interested in the history of Kappabashi, you can even take a walking tour.
If you’re looking for a memorable souvenir, this is one of the best places in Tokyo to buy a Japanese chef’s knife, handmade pottery, or unique kitchen accessories. I left with chopsticks, chopstick rests, and several other souvenirs I hadn’t planned on buying.
Pro Tip: Visit in the morning before heading to nearby Senso-ji Temple. Most visitors completely skip Kappabashi, making it feel much less crowded than other parts of Tokyo.
2. Draw an Omikuji Fortune at Senso-ji Temple
Senso-ji Temple is the oldest temple in Tokyo and one of the most important cultural landmarks in the city. Located in the historic Asakusa neighborhood, it’s often the first stop I recommend for first-time visitors because it combines history, food, shopping, and sightseeing all in one place.
One of the most memorable experiences here is drawing an Omikuji fortune. For a small donation, you’ll receive a fortune that predicts everything from your luck in travel and relationships to future success. If you draw a bad fortune, tie it to the designated racks and leave the bad luck behind.
Don’t skip:
- Omikuji fortunes (my favorite part)
- Matcha ice cream nearby
- The side streets around Asakusa
Pro tip: Arriving before 8 a.m. makes a huge difference. You’ll experience a much quieter version of Senso-ji before tour groups fill Nakamise Street. While you’re in the area, consider an Asakusa walking tour.
3. Try Conveyor Belt Sushi
Even if you’re not a huge sushi person, this is part of the Tokyo experience.
Conveyor belt sushi spots are affordable, fast, and surprisingly good quality. Watching plates zip past your table somehow never gets old.
Popular chains:
- Sushiro
- Kura Sushi
- Uobei Sushi
Uobei in Shibuya is especially fun because the sushi arrives directly to your seat on little tracks. The sushi here was delicious and a fun way to break up the day.
4. Experience Tokyo After Dark in Shinjuku
If you want the classic “Tokyo at night” atmosphere, Shinjuku is where you’ll find it.
Think:
- Neon signs everywhere
- Tiny hidden bars
- Omoide Yokocho alleyways – you can even do a walking tour with a local guide!
- Late-night ramen shops
- Sumo wrestling show & experience
- Arcades open past midnight
Kabukicho can be chaotic, but it’s worth walking through at least once just to experience the energy.
5. Make a Japanese Convenience Store Run
It may sound surprising, but Japanese convenience stores are an attraction in their own right. There’s a reason both locals and tourists get so excited to visit a convenience store in Japan. On our 10-day trip to Japan, I went to a convenience store at least once, if not twice, daily!
7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson become part of your daily routine in Tokyo.
Must-try items at the convenience stores:
- Egg salad sandwiches (I think about them daily)
- Onigiri
- Matcha desserts
- Fried chicken
- Pocari Sweat
- Soufflé pancakes
You’ll probably end up going multiple times a day without even planning to.
6. Eat Your Way Through the Tsukiji Outer Market
While the famous wholesale fish auction moved to Toyosu, Tsukiji Outer Market remains one of the best places in Tokyo to sample local food.
You’ll find dozens of small vendors serving fresh sushi, grilled seafood, tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet), wagyu skewers, and seasonal specialties. Even if you’re not a seafood lover, the market is worth visiting simply for the atmosphere. If the amount of options overwhelm you, you can book a Tsukiji food tour that will take you to the best stalls.
The best time to visit is between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. when most vendors are open and the energy is at its peak.
7. Enjoy a Quiet Morning at Nezu Shrine
If you’re looking for a quieter side of Tokyo, Nezu Shrine was one of my favorite discoveries. Located in a residential neighborhood near Ueno, this historic shrine is known for its tunnel of red torii gates that many travelers compare to a smaller, less crowded version of Kyoto’s famous Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Arriving early in the morning lets you experience the grounds before tour groups arrive. The peaceful atmosphere feels completely different from the energy of Shibuya or Shinjuku.
The shrine is especially beautiful during spring when thousands of azaleas bloom throughout the gardens, but it’s worth visiting year-round for a glimpse into traditional Tokyo.
If you enjoy exploring lesser-known neighborhoods, combine your visit with a walk through nearby Yanaka, one of Tokyo’s most charming old-town districts.
8. Watch Sunset from Above Tokyo
Tokyo somehow looks endless from above.
| OBSERVATION DECK | COST | BEST FOR |
| Shibuya Sky | $$$ | Sunset |
| Tokyo Skytree | $ | Highest views |
| Tokyo Tower | $$ | Classic Tokyo |
| Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building | Free | Budget travelers |
Watching the city transition from daylight into glowing neon is one of the coolest things you can experience here. Many travelers strongly prefer Shibuya Sky for the open-air rooftop experience and sunset views, while Tokyo Skytree offers the highest observation decks in the city. Advance reservations are often recommended for sunset time slots.
9. Eat Ramen at a Tiny Local Shop
Some of the best ramen meals in Tokyo happen in places with:
- 10 seats
- A ticket vending machine
- No English menu
- Steam fogging up the windows
Those small, unassuming shops often serve some of the best ramen in the city.
Popular ramen styles to try:
- Tonkotsu
- Shoyu
- Tsukemen dipping ramen
- Spicy miso ramen
While famous chains like Ichiran are popular with tourists (and I enjoyed it), some of the best ramen experiences happen in tiny local shops tucked into side streets throughout Tokyo. Don’t be intimidated by ticket vending machines or menus with limited English. Pointing, Google Translate, and a little curiosity go a long way.
Neighborhoods like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ueno are packed with excellent ramen shops, making it easy to stumble upon a memorable meal while exploring the city!
10. Treat Yourself to a Japanese Head Spa
After spending days walking through Tokyo’s neighborhoods, a Japanese head spa can be one of the most relaxing experiences of your trip.
Unlike a traditional haircut appointment, a head spa focuses on scalp treatments, massage techniques, deep cleansing, and relaxation. At my appointment, the spa combined aromatherapy, scalp analysis, and extended massages that leave you feeling completely refreshed. I was so relaxed that I fell asleep! I was also given recommendations on how to take care of my hair and scalp which I’m putting to use today!
It’s a uniquely Japanese wellness experience and a great way to slow down after busy sightseeing days. Many visitors book a head spa treatment before flying home as a final treat before the long journey back.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Tokyo
How many days do you need in Tokyo?
For a first trip, 4–6 days lets you experience Tokyo’s major neighborhoods, food scene, temples, and observation decks. Read about my 6 day Tokyo Itinerary.
What is the best area to stay in Tokyo?
Shinjuku, Shibuya, Asakusa, Ginza, and Tokyo Station are among the most convenient neighborhoods for first-time visitors because they offer excellent transportation connections and easy access to major attractions.
What is the number one attraction in Tokyo?
Many first-time visitors consider Senso-ji Temple, Shibuya Crossing, and Shibuya Sky among Tokyo’s most iconic attractions.
Is Tokyo expensive?
Tokyo can be expensive, but many attractions are free and food can be surprisingly affordable.
Is Tokyo walkable?
Tokyo is extremely walkable within neighborhoods, but you’ll rely heavily on the city’s excellent train system to move between districts. Learn more about the public transportation on everything I wish I knew when planning a trip to Japan.
What should you not miss in Tokyo?
There are so many things to do in Tokyo. However, first-time visitors shouldn’t miss Senso-ji Temple, Shibuya Crossing, Shinjuku, Tsukiji Outer Market, and an observation deck like Shibuya Sky.
Final Thoughts
Tokyo is one of the few cities where every day can feel completely different from the last. One morning you might be exploring centuries-old temples, and by evening you’re surrounded by neon lights, ramen shops, and some of the busiest streets in the world.
While there are countless things to do in Tokyo, these 10 experiences ended up being some of my personal favorites. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or a full week, I recommend choosing a handful of highlights and leaving room for unexpected discoveries along the way. Some of the best memories in Tokyo happen when you wander down a side street and stumble across something you weren’t looking for at all.
