Tokyo, where neon lights meet ancient temples, offers an electrifying blend of the old and the new. If it’s your first time in this vibrant city, you’re in for a whirlwind of experiences that’ll have your senses buzzing. Whether you’re wandering through serene gardens, diving into the heart of bustling markets, or savouring the best sushi of your life, Tokyo promises adventures at every corner. This essential guide is your ticket to discovering the city’s must-visit spots, including its top-notch Japanese restaurants.
Our Selection of 15 Best Places to Visit in Tokyo For First Timers
Let’s uncover the gems that make Tokyo a destination like no other, ensuring your trip is nothing short of unforgettable.
1. Tokyo Skytree
Rising 634 meters above Tokyo, the Tokyo Skytree is a marvel of modern engineering and an unmissable landmark. Located in the Sumida City Ward, this towering structure is Japan’s tallest and offers breathtaking views from its two observation decks at 350 and 450 meters. The lower deck, Tembo Deck, features expansive windows for stunning 360-degree views, a souvenir shop, and the Musashi Sky Restaurant with its unique French-Japanese fusion cuisine. For the daring, glass panels on the floor provide a thrilling look straight down.
The higher deck, Tembo Galleria, is dubbed the world’s highest skywalk with a spiralling glass ramp offering dizzying perspectives of Tokyo and beyond. Remember to explore Tokyo Solamachi at the base, home to 300 shops and the fascinating Sumida Aquarium. Whether you’re gazing out of the city or shopping for Skytree-themed souvenirs, visiting Tokyo Skytree is an unforgettable adventure.
Tokyo Skytree
Operating Hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm (Timings may change, check the website)
Address: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
2. Harajuku
Harajuku, nestled between Shibuya and Shinjuku, is Tokyo’s vibrant heart of teenage culture and fashion. This buzzing area around Harajuku Station is best known for Takeshita Street, a lively hub of quirky shops, fashion boutiques, and delectable crepe stands that cater to trend-conscious teens. But Harajuku isn’t just for the young.
Just south, Omotesando offers a more sophisticated shopping experience with high-end brand stores and chic cafes, perfect for the adult crowd. Beyond shopping, Harajuku is home to the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine, the lush Yoyogi Park, and intriguing museums like the Ota Memorial Museum of Art. Whether you’re diving into its fashion-forward streets or exploring its rich cultural sites, Harajuku promises an unforgettable Tokyo experience.
Harajuku
Operating Hours: Always Open
Address: Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan
3. Shinjuku
Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s 23 city wards, is a bustling hub of entertainment, business, and shopping, centered around the world’s busiest railway station. Handling over two million passengers daily, Shinjuku Station is your gateway to an urban playground that never sleeps. To the west, you’ll find Nishi-Shinjuku’s towering skyscrapers, including the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building with its free observation decks. Head northeast to Kabukicho, Japan’s largest and liveliest red-light district, for a taste of Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife.
The area around the station is brimming with high-class department stores, electronic megastores, and modern shopping complexes like NEWoMan Shinjuku. When night falls, Shinjuku becomes a neon-lit wonderland with endless dining and entertainment options. Whether you’re soaking in panoramic views, exploring unique bars, or savouring local ramen, Shinjuku offers a dynamic mix of culture, excitement, and adventure.
Shinjuku
Operating Hours: Always Open
Address: Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan
4. Shibuya
Shibuya is a vibrant district in Tokyo, known for its bustling shopping and entertainment scene, particularly popular among the youth. Centered around Shibuya Station, it boasts iconic landmarks like the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, where crowds of pedestrians create a mesmerising sight. The area is packed with trendy fashion boutiques, department stores like Shibuya109 and Seibu, and countless dining options.
Shibuya is also undergoing significant redevelopment, with new additions like Shibuya Stream, Shibuya Scramble Square, and Miyashita Park enhancing its appeal. These spots offer modern shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences, including the Shibuya Sky observation deck with panoramic city views. The district also embraces its creative side with independent cinemas, live music venues, and the Tokyo Anime Center, making it a hub of contemporary culture.
Shibuya
Operating Hours: Always Open
Address: Shibuya City, Tokyo, Japan
5. Roppongi
Roppongi is a dynamic district in central Tokyo, blending luxury and nightlife seamlessly. This area is home to world-class art museums, Michelin-starred restaurants, and high-end shopping destinations. At the heart of Roppongi are two major developments: Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown, each offering exquisite dining, arts, and cultural experiences. The Mori Art Museum in Roppongi Hills and the Suntory Museum of Art in Tokyo Midtown highlight the area’s artistic appeal, making it a cultural hub.
Despite its upscale ambience, Roppongi is also famed for its vibrant nightlife. The district buzzes with bars, clubs, and restaurants that stay open late, providing an international and cosmopolitan flavour. Whether exploring the luxury boutiques or enjoying the lively party scene, Roppongi offers a unique and exciting experience, balancing sophistication with exuberance.
Roppongi
Operating Hours: Always Open
Address: Minato City, Tokyo 106-0032, Japan
6. Hoppy Street
Hoppy Street, also known as Hoppy Dori or Stew Street, is a vibrant destination in Asakusa, Tokyo, perfect for alfresco dining and drinking. Lined with old-school izakayas, this lively street offers delicious beef stew, monjayaki, and plenty of Hoppy, a nostalgic low-alcohol beer mixed with shochu. By day it’s popular, but by night it truly comes alive with a bustling, festive atmosphere. Recommended spots include Shōchan, located at the top of the street opposite Fuglen Asakusa.
Hoppy Street’s charm lies in its blend of food, drink, and culture. The street food scene includes yakitori, tempura, and the iconic grilled beef tongue. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant ambience, street performers, and possibly a traditional Japanese festival. If you’re a first-time visitor, the flavours and lively atmosphere of Hoppy Street are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Hoppy Street
Operating Hours: Always Open
Address: Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
7. Tokyo DisneySea
Tokyo DisneySea, a unique theme park within Tokyo Disney Resort, is inspired by the mysteries and wonders of the sea. Opened in 2001, it features eight captivating ports of call: Mediterranean Harbor, Mysterious Island, Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery, American Waterfront, and Fantasy Springs. Unlike its counterpart, Tokyo Disneyland, DisneySea caters to a more mature audience with a focus on gourmet dining and intricate attractions.
From the Venetian charm of Mediterranean Harbor to the enchanting undersea realm of Mermaid Lagoon, each themed area offers distinct experiences. The park’s latest addition, Fantasy Springs, brings beloved Disney movies to life and requires reservations for access. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins in the Lost River Delta or sailing through Port Discovery’s futuristic marina, Tokyo DisneySea promises a magical adventure for all ages.
Tokyo DisneySea
Operating Hours: Check out the website’s main page for timings, as they keep changing.
Address: 1-13 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-8511, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
8. Odaiba
Odaiba is a vibrant shopping and entertainment district on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. Originally built as fort islands in the late Edo Period to defend Tokyo, Odaiba underwent a major transformation in the 1990s into a futuristic hub. Today, it is renowned for its striking architecture, including the Rainbow Bridge and the replica Statue of Liberty. Major shopping spots like Aqua City and DiverCity, which feature a life-sized Unicorn Gundam, draw visitors from all over.
Odaiba also offers a variety of family-friendly attractions, such as Tokyo Joypolis, Legoland Discovery Center, and the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation. For a leisurely escape, head to Odaiba Seaside Park, Tokyo’s only beach, where you can enjoy scenic views of the skyline. With its blend of modern marvels and entertainment options, Odaiba is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
Odaiba
Operating Hours: Always Open
Address: Tokyo, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
9. Ghibli Museum
The Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, just outside central Tokyo, is a magical tribute to the iconic Studio Ghibli. Designed by the studio’s co-founder Hayao Miyazaki, the museum captures the whimsical charm of the studio’s films, featuring life-sized characters like the robot from “Castle in the Sky” in its rooftop garden. Inside, the museum showcases the history and techniques of animation on the first floor, while the second-floor hosts rotating exhibitions. Exclusive short films are shown in the Saturn Theater, and visitors can also enjoy a café, a children’s play area, and a gift shop filled with unique Studio Ghibli merchandise.
A visit to the Ghibli Museum is a journey into the heart of Studio Ghibli’s imaginative world. Although entry requires advance ticket purchase and ID, the experience is well worth it. The museum offers original sketches, a replica of the Cat Bus from “My Neighbor Totoro,” and a permanent exhibition space that feels like a glimpse into the creative process behind the studio’s beloved films.
Ghibli Museum
Operating Hours: 10:00 am – 06:00 pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Address: 1 Chome-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan
10. teamLab Planets
teamLab Planets Tokyo redefines the art gallery experience with its groundbreaking digital art exhibits created by Japan’s renowned teamLab. Located near Odaiba, this immersive space features seven full-body art installations that combine touch, sight, sound, and innovative design. At Planets, you’ll explore the exhibits barefoot and sometimes wade through shallow water, creating a truly tactile and sensory-rich adventure. The experience emphasises dissolving the boundaries between the viewer and the artwork, making each interaction uniquely engaging.
teamLab, a collective of artists, programmers, and technologists, has made a significant impact with their immersive creations. Since opening teamLab Planets in 2018, they’ve captivated millions with their boundary-pushing exhibits. Recognised by Guinness World Records as the most-visited museum dedicated to a single art group, Planets continues to attract global attention. Expect to navigate maze-like rooms, discover hidden surprises, and enjoy light-filled displays. New exhibits in early 2025 will include interactive artworks designed especially for children, enhancing the museum’s appeal for all ages.
teamLab Planets
Operating Hours: 09:00 am – 10:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 6 Chome-1-16 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0061, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
11. Ueno Park
Ueno Park in central Tokyo is a historic and vibrant public park renowned for its cultural institutions and natural beauty. Originally the grounds of Kaneiji Temple, a prominent Edo Period temple, the park was converted into one of Japan’s first Western-style parks in 1873 following the Meiji Restoration. Ueno Park is home to several prestigious museums, including the Tokyo National Museum, the National Museum for Western Art, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, and the National Science Museum. It also houses Ueno Zoo, Japan’s first zoo, and features the scenic Shinobazu Pond with its iconic Bentendo temple hall.
Ueno Park is especially famous for its cherry blossoms, attracting millions of visitors during the blooming season in late March and early April. The park’s central pathway, lined with over 1000 cherry trees, becomes a hub for hanami (flower viewing) parties, creating a lively and picturesque atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s historical landmarks, such as the statue of Saigo Takamori, known as the “last true samurai,” and the Ueno Toshogu Shrine. With its rich blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, Ueno Park offers a quintessential Tokyo experience for both locals and tourists.
Ueno Park
Operating Hours: 05:00 am – 11:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 5-20 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
12. Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park is one of Tokyo’s largest and most beloved parks, offering expansive lawns, serene ponds, and lush forested areas. Ideal for jogging, picnicking, and a variety of outdoor activities, the park is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Though it has fewer cherry trees compared to other famous hanami spots in Tokyo, Yoyogi Park still provides a beautiful cherry blossom experience from late March to early April. Additionally, its ginkgo tree forest is a major attraction in late November to early December when the leaves turn a vibrant golden colour.
The park’s history adds to its unique charm. Before becoming a public park in 1967, the area was the Olympic Village for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and served as a residential area for U.S. military personnel before that. Today, Yoyogi Park is a lively hub that draws diverse crowds, from dance crews and cosplayers to joggers and families enjoying picnics. Its proximity to Meiji Jingu Shrine and the bustling Harajuku district makes it a perfect spot for a day of leisure and exploration. Visitors can also take advantage of the park’s sports facilities, cycling paths, and numerous events that bring the community together throughout the year.
Yoyogi Park
Operating Hours: Always Open
Address: 2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-0052, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
13. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen is one of Tokyo’s largest and most popular parks, offering a tranquil escape with spacious lawns, meandering walking paths, and serene scenery. Located a short walk from Shinjuku Station, the park originated during the Edo Period as a feudal lord’s residence and was later converted into a botanical garden before becoming an Imperial Family property in 1903. Though it was almost destroyed during World War II, Shinjuku Gyoen was rebuilt and opened to the public in 1949.
The park features three distinct gardens: a traditional Japanese landscape garden with ponds and pavilions, a formal French garden with abundant flowers, and an English landscape garden with wide open lawns. Shinjuku Gyoen is a prime spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring, with more than 400 Somei Yoshino trees, and offers stunning autumn foliage with its vibrant maple trees. The greenhouse, Taiwan Pavilion, and ties to the Showa Emperor add cultural significance, making it a must-visit oasis in Tokyo.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Operating Hours: 09:00 am – 06:30 pm (Closed on Mondays) | Operating Hours may change
Address: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0014, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
14. Senso-ji Temple
Sensoji, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple, is a vibrant and historical Buddhist temple located in Asakusa, Tokyo. The temple’s origins date back to 628 AD when two brothers discovered a statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, in the Sumida River. Despite returning the statue to the river, it repeatedly came back to them, prompting the construction of the temple, which was completed in 645 AD, making it Tokyo’s oldest temple.
Visitors enter through the iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and proceed along Nakamise, a bustling shopping street lined with traditional snacks and souvenirs. Beyond the Hozomon Gate, the temple’s main hall and a five-storied pagoda await. Though destroyed in WWII, the current structures are impressive reconstructions. Sensoji Temple, with its rich history, colourful events like the Sanja Matsuri, and the atmosphere of old Edo, is a must-visit destination for experiencing Tokyo’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Senso-ji Temple
Operating Hours: 06:00 am – 05:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
15. HOSHINOYA Tokyo
HOSHINOYA Tokyo, a high-rise ryokan nestled in the heart of Tokyo’s bustling financial district, offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese design and modern luxury. This ryokan redefines the classic Japanese inn, blending customary elements like tatami floors, futon beds, and shoeless entry with contemporary comforts. Architect Rie Azuma’s interior design incorporates bamboo, cedar, and hand-plastered walls alongside modern touches like glass bathroom walls that turn opaque with a button press. The hotel’s dramatic rooftop bath, filled with natural hot spring water, provides a serene escape with views of the Tokyo sky.
Guests can enjoy a range of activities, from dawn ken-jutsu lessons on the roof to traditional tea ceremonies. Dining is an experience in itself, with chef Ryosuke Oka crafting seasonal multi-course omakase meals in the basement dining area. Each floor’s communal lounge, exclusive to its guests, fosters a sense of community with tea and seasonal sweets served by staff in traditional attire. Managed by Hoshino Resorts, HOSHINOYA Tokyo exemplifies the evolution of the ryokan, maintaining its deep-rooted traditions while catering to the needs of modern travellers.
HOSHINOYA Tokyo
Operating Hours: Always Open
Address: 1 Chome-9-1 Ōtemachi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website | Facebook | Instagram | X
Conclusion
Tokyo offers an extraordinary blend of traditional culture and cutting-edge modernity, making it an unforgettable destination for first-time visitors. From the serene beauty of Shinjuku Gyoen and the historical significance of Senso-ji Temple to the vibrant shopping streets of Harajuku and the futuristic skyline seen from Tokyo Skytree, the city promises a diverse range of experiences. With its world-class cuisine, bustling neighbourhoods, and tranquil parks, Tokyo captivates the heart and imagination. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples or enjoying the latest in technology and fashion, Tokyo is a city that will leave you longing to return.