50 Best Things to Do in Tokyo (2024 Edition)

26. Sumo Tournaments at Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Stadium

At Ryogoku Kokugikan, an institution built for professional sumo wrestling, you can see the Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournament held three times a year in January, May, and September. Tickets can be bought online in English at the official website. The tournament venue is also home to the Sumo Museum on the first floor, where you can learn more about this traditional Japanese sport through displays of items related to sumo. Other sumo-related things to do in the Ryogoku area include seeing sumo wrestlers practice at a sumo stable or trying chanko nabe, a staple hot pot dish beloved by sumo wrestlers.

27. Butler Cafe and Maid Cafes in Ikebukuro and Akihabara

One well-known kind of themed cafe in Japan is the maid cafe. It’s a unique experience where you get to enjoy cute food and drinks served up by an adorable maid. They’ll dance, sing, and even take a commemorative photo with you! But don’t just stop there - complete your Tokyo journey with a trip to a butler cafe as well. Though they won’t dance or sing to you, the butlers will do their utmost to ensure you have a top-notch dining experience, treating you like a lord or lady.

28. Sanja Matsuri (Sanja Festival)

One of the top three festivals in Tokyo, the Sanja Matsuri takes place over three days in early summer at Asakusa Shrine. It is held in honor of the three men who founded Senso-ji Temple, and is said to bring good fortune to the businesses and residents of Asakusa. If you’re lucky enough to be in Tokyo on the day of the festival, you’ll get to see around 100 “mikoshi” portable shrines parading through Asakusa’s streets!

29. Comiket

Short for “Comic Market,” this semi-annual doujinshi convention is one of the biggest in not just Japan, but the entire world! People from all over come to see, sell, and buy doujinshi and other anime, manga, and game-related merchandise, both official and fan-made. It is usually held at Tokyo Big Sight, Japan’s largest convention center which opened in 1996. Despite the large size of the venue, Comiket is so popular that it has a notoriously long wait to get in. This may deter some, but since it’s attended by big names including publishers, animation production companies, game companies, famous cosplayers, and iconic voice actors, many still brave the lines to get at least one taste of this large-scale event.

30. Kabukiza Theatre

Kabuki is the most popular type of traditional performing arts in Japan. While there are several places where you can view it live, we recommend the Kabukiza Theatre in Ginza, Tokyo. The theater itself is magnificent in design, standing out from the other buildings in the neighborhood. But it’s also beginner-friendly - for example, a typical kabuki show lasts up to four hours and is split into three to four acts, but you can buy tickets for a single act at Kabukiza Theatre. They also have subtitle guides in several languages so that you can better follow along with the show.

More about the Kabukiza Theatre: A Guide to the Kabukiza Theatre

31. Tokyo Sakura Tram (Toden Arakawa Line)

The Toden Arakawa Line is the only streetcar line remaining in Tokyo today. It was nicknamed “Tokyo Sakura Tram” in 2017 because of the amazing cherry blossom views it offers in the spring. Running from Minowabashi Station to Waseda Station, it displays around 12.2 kilometers of scenic Tokyo sights, from retro shopping streets to roses and autumn foliage. If you like to take photos or experience a more nostalgic side of Tokyo, don’t miss the opportunity to take a trip on this tram.

More about the Tokyo Sakura Tram: Travel Leisurely in Tokyo via the Toden Arakawa Line

32. Avatar Robot Cafe DAWN ver.β

This cafe has a really cool concept: it’s run by robots, who are actually remotely controlled by people who have difficulty going out for various reasons. Patrons can chat with the people on the other end, and even try their hand at remotely controlling one of the robots themselves! See just how Japan plans to use technology to transcend barriers at this accessible cafe. There’s a diner, bar, and cafe section, so you can visit at any time of the day (reservation needed for the diner).

33. Daikokuyu Onsen

This hot spring sento is loved by locals and tourists for its inexpensive price and central location that offers a prime view of the Tokyo Skytree. Many admire the indoor bathing space which has a mural of Mt. Fuji, completely setting the mood for a refreshing soak. There’s also two sauna rooms, a popular medicinal bath that’s changed daily, a coin laundry area, and a wood deck for relaxing after your bath. Even those with tattoos are welcome, so don’t miss the opportunity to check out this long-established local sento.

34. Hirata Tantojo

Ever wanted to see a katana maker work their magic in real life? Within the outskirts of Tokyo sits the workshop of the Hirata swordsmith and “murage” iron maker couple, and it is available for touring. They are some of the last makers in Japan to employ traditional katana forging methods, and have taken to uploading images and videos of their art on Instagram to broadcast to the world. Learn their philosophy about the world of swordmaking and perhaps even take one home to treasure!

More about the couple running Hirata Tantojo: The Japanese Swordsmith Power Couple Keeping Katana Making Traditions Alive
More about katana according to Hirata Tantojo: The World of Katana and Nihonto

Best Places and Things to Eat and Drink in Tokyo

35. Tsukiji Market and Toyosu Market

Tsukiji Market used to be one of the world’s largest fish markets until its wholesale section was moved to Toyosu and renamed “Toyosu Market.” Despite this, it is still a bustling tourist attraction today, luring people in with its excellent food scene. Toyosu Market also has restaurants open to tourists, but its main appeal is the tuna actions held in the early morning. If you can wake up early enough, you’ll be in for the show of a lifetime!

More about Tsukiji Market and Toyosu Market: Tsukiji Market vs Toyosu Fish Market

36. Unadon

Unadon is one of the classic foods you have to try when in Tokyo. Consisting of unagi kabayaki (freshwater eel basted with a soy-based sauce and grilled) set over a bowl of rice, this deceptively simple dish is full of umami and so tender that it falls apart with the slight touch of chopsticks! While you can get unadon outside of Tokyo, it’s said that the dish originated in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, so we recommend you try it here.

Restaurants to try unadon in Tokyo: Must-Try Unagi Restaurants in Tokyo

37. Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai in Shinjuku

Two of the most popular drinking spots in Tokyo are Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai. Omoide Yokocho is right outside of Shinjuku Station’s West Exit. It’s a street full of privately-owned bars and restaurants, and is popular for its retro look that changes with the seasons. Golden Gai is to the east of the station. It was once the main hangout for creative souls, but today is mainly a place for drinking. If you’re hungry, go to Omoide Yokocho. If you want to get smashed, check out Golden Gai.

38. Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo

This is the fifth Starbucks Reserve Roastery in the world and the first in Japan. Opened in 2019, it is a coffee wonderland, complete with an in-house bakery and all kinds of exclusive drinks and treats. It is located in the trendy Nakameguro neighborhood, and is particularly popular among locals during the spring season, as you can get a gorgeous view of the cherry blossoms while sipping on some delicious sakura-themed drinks. The building’s design is equally as attractive, with traditional Japanese aesthetics on the inside and an exterior created in collaboration with world-famous architect Kengo Kuma.

More about Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo: Japan's First Starbucks Reserve Roastery Is Now Open in Tokyo

39. Chanko Nabe

Chanko nabe is a hot pot dish made with all kinds of vegetables and protein. It has its roots in sumo culture, as it’s said to have been created in the Sumida area of Tokyo by a retired sumo wrestler. Like ramen, each restaurant flavors their chanko nabe differently, so it’s easy to eat it several days in a row, which is something sumo wrestlers actually do. If you’re looking for something nutritious and chock full of flavor, don’t miss out on chanko nabe!

40. Ameya Yokocho

Commonly known as “Ameyoko,” this shopping street located just outside of JR Ueno Station is where you’ll find practically anything from cosmetics to “sukajan” bomber jackets, which are a throwback to its origins as a black market. It is also a thriving food market, with many visiting just to check out its candy shops, purchase fresh produce at bargain prices, and explore its food stalls. It’s incredibly popular among locals and tourists alike, so it does get quite busy during the day, but Ameyoko is still worth a visit for those who want to see the lively side of Tokyo.

41. Tsukishima Monja Street

Tsukishima Monja Street is a 500-meter-road lined with around 80 shops, many who specialize in “monjayaki.” This dish is said to have originated from the Tsukishima neighborhood of Tokyo, and is very similar to okonomiyaki, but with a much thinner batter. The entirety of the street is framed by blue “noren” curtains, with subtle moon decorations paying homage to Tsukishima’s name which literally translates to “moon island.” Visit to enjoy this local delicacy and the retro aesthetics of the street.

42. Onigiri Bongo

As its name suggests, Onigiri Bongo is a shop in Otsuka that specializes in “onigiri” rice balls. For over 60 years, they have steadily worked to grow their menu to a whopping 56 different kinds of fillings, and their fan base has grown to include people from all over the world. What makes their onigiri so special is that they’re about twice as large as the ones you can find at convenience stores, and they’re absolutely packed with filling! There are always huge lines outside their doors, so you might have to wait for a bit, but their onigiri are very well worth the wait.

More about the owner of Onigiri Bongo: The Woman Who Led Onigiri Bongo to Success
More about onigiri: How to Make Delicious Onigiri According to Onigiri Bongo

Best Shopping Spots in Tokyo

43. Mega Don Quijote Shibuya

For souvenir shopping, there’s no better place than Don Quijote. You’ll find Japanese snacks, branded items, cosmetics, and much more tightly packed into every corner of this chain store. Mega Don Quijote Shibuya is Tokyo’s largest Don Quijote, open 24 hours a day and offering some exclusive items you can’t find anywhere else. It is a tourist attraction in its own right and a stop not to be missed for those wanting to explore a unique side of Japan’s shopping culture.

More about Mega Don Quijote Shibuya: MEGA Don Quijote Shibuya: Tokyo’s Largest Selection of Souvenirs at Bargain Prices

44. Kappabashi Street (Kappabashi Kitchenware Town)

The approximately 160 shops that line this 800-meter-long shopping street between Asakusa and Ueno mainly specialize in everything related to food, from tableware to stoves. It is paradise for professional and amateur chefs alike! Most stores are open to the public, so you can easily score great deals on even professional-grade kitchenware. Some stores also offer repair services for beloved kitchen tools such as knives.

More about Kappabashi Street: What to Buy in Kappabashi

45. Oedo Antique Market

The Oedo Antique Market is the largest outdoor antique market in Japan. Unlike many others that stick to just one kind of antique, you can find a wide variety of antiques here, from Japanese heirlooms to historic European pieces. It is held on the first and third Sunday of every month at the plaza of the Tokyo International Forum in Yurakucho - so, pretty much at the heart of Tokyo. If you have a little spare time, why not check out this flea market and see if you can discover a new treasure?

More about the Oedo Antique Market: Encounter Amazing Treasures and People at Oedo Antique Market

46. Takashimaya (and Other Department Stores)

If you want to get all your shopping done in one fell swoop, there’s no better place than one of Tokyo’s many shopping malls. One of the most well known is Takashimaya Shinjuku. This shopping mall has everything you might need, from a basement floor dedicated to food from all over the world to international luxury outlets and even a gigantic Tokyu Hands, a variety shop full of products unique to Japan.

More about Takashimaya Shinjuku: Find Anything and Everything at Takashimaya Shinjuku
More about Tokyu Hands: Top 25 Things to Buy at Tokyu Hands

47. Ginza Itoya

Itoya is one of the most famous stationery stores in Japan, and its main branch is in Ginza. It has an illustrious history as one of the first stationery stores in the country. Today, it continues to compete by offering not just innovative goods, but also original products, repair services, and even bespoke services such as engraving pens. The flagship Ginza store has a whopping 18 floors dedicated to all kinds of stationery divided by theme, and regularly hosts pop-ups and other stationery-related events. If you’re a fan of Japanese stationery, you can’t miss this shop!

More about Ginza Itoya: The Charms of Itoya

48. Tower Records Shibuya

Although this CD retail chain saw bankruptcy across the world in 2006, Tower Records Japan survived because it became independent from the international chain store in 2002. With 85% of music sales in Japan coming from CDs, it is still thriving today, with over 80 stores established across Japan. Tower Records Shibuya is the chain’s flagship store, with nine floors of old-school CDs, vinyl records, cassette tapes, merchandise, books, and more. In today’s day and age when most music is streamed online, visit this store to experience the past and look for hard-to-find items that may no longer be in production.

49. Takeshita Street and Cat Street in Harajuku

If you’re looking to explore the fashion subcultures of Japan, look no further than the streets of Takeshita and Cat. Takeshita Street is the more well-known of the set, and is where you’ll find not just clothing stores, but also cosmetics shops, purikura photo booths, and snack stores selling super Instagrammable foods such as crepes. Cat Street, which connects Harajuku and Shibuya, is more quiet and is mainly filled with fashion stores. You’ll find everything from designer brands to secondhand goods. The only thing you won’t find here are actual cats!

50. Shin-Okubo

Head to the right of Shin-Okubo Station and you’ll discover Tokyo’s Koreatown. In recent years, thanks to the Korean pop culture boom in Japan, this area has gained a large number of visitors. You’ll find cosmetics shops, artist merchandise stores, and tons of Korean restaurants and snack stalls to explore. The left side is quieter but still worth exploring if you’re a foodie, as it’s where you’ll find restaurants and small supermarkets serving up food, ingredients, and miscellaneous goods from Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East.

 

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