20 Things to Do in Tokyo: a Guide to Unmissable Experiences

Tokyo is one of those cities that captures your heart at first sight. Between my passion for Japan and the fact that, as you know, Fabio and I organize group trips, we now visit at least 3-4 times a year. We’ve been there four times in the last 12 months alone, so it’s finally time to share a definitive recap of the experiences that made me fall in love with this incredible city.

Grab your pen and paper, because I’m about to reveal the 20 unmissable things to do in Tokyo!

01.Get lost in the madness of Takeshita Street Takeshita Street

In the heart of Harajuku, is an explosion of colors, young people in the most eccentric outfits, and quirky stores. Perfect for eccentric shopping and tasting sweets with impossible colors!

02. Write a wish on an Ema plaque

Ema are small wooden plaques where you can write your wishes at any Shinto shrine. Take a moment to reflect on your dreams and leave a mark of your journey in Japan.

03. Play retro games in Akihabara

Akihabara is paradise for video game lovers and Japanese nerd culture enthusiasts. From vintage arcades to specialized shops, you can relive the thrill of classic arcade games from the ’80s and ’90s. Head to “Super Potato” for a nostalgic dive into Pac-Man, Street Fighter, and other unforgettable games that shaped history!

04. Spend hours at Uniqlo and Don Quijote

If you love shopping, get ready to lose track of time. Uniqlo offers quality, minimalist clothing, while Don Quijote is a mega-store that literally sells everything imaginable. I recommend the one in Shibuya for the best selection!

05. 3D Cappuccinos

It’s not just a cappuccino it’s a real work of art! Order your 3D cappuccino and enjoy the perfect Instagrammable break. You’ll find many places around Tokyo, we tried it in Ginza HERE.

06. Try the Head Spa

Haircare is taken very seriously in Japan. Treat yourself to a relaxing “Head Spa” treatment, a special massage that rejuvenates your scalp and hair—an absolute must-try! I went HERE.

07. Senso-ji Temple

Located in Asakusa, this is one of Tokyo’s most fascinating and ancient temples. Don’t miss the traditional shops on Nakamise Street leading up to it.

08. Tokyo Tower

This iconic red tower offers spectacular views. For postcard-worthy photos, also explore its surrounding streets, especially at sunset.

09. Shibuya Crossing

World-famous, it’s the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. Crossing it is a surreal experience, something you must do at least once in your life.

10. Meiji Shrine

Nestled within a forest right in the city center, Meiji Shrine offers a peaceful and spiritual escape. Don’t miss the walk beneath ancient trees.

11. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Located in Shinjuku, this building offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo, completely free of charge! Don’t trust the hours listed on Google Maps as those are office hours. Check HERE for the correct opening hours (use Google Translate).

12. Eat ramen at Ichiran

Ichiran serves one of the world’s most famous ramen dishes. It’s a unique experience, with individual booths to savor Tokyo’s most authentic and delicious ramen.

13. Take a trip to Kamakura

Kamakura is a charming historical town less than an hour from Tokyo. Here you’ll find beaches, temples, and the famous Great Buddha, an unforgettable sight.

14. Historic Yanaka District

An authentic and nostalgic neighborhood that survived earthquakes and bombings. Wander through old houses, artisan shops, and charming little streets.

15. Kappabashi Dori

If you love cooking, Kappabashi is your paradise: shops selling ceramics, knives, every possible utensil, and traditional Japanese kitchen items. Unmissable!

16. Shimokitazawa District

The mecca of vintage and second-hand shopping: clothes, accessories, and unique vinyl records. A youthful, energetic district perfect for uncovering hidden gems.

17. Asakusa melon pan

You can’t leave Tokyo without tasting melon pan: a sweet bread with a crispy crust, delicious and hugely popular among locals. The absolute best? 2 Chome-7-13 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Giappone.

18. Japanese sweets and matcha class

Take a local cooking class and learn to make traditional Japanese sweets paired with authentic matcha tea. You have many options, like THIS ONE or THIS ONE.

Stay in a Ryokan or Capsule Hotel

Enjoy a unique experience by staying in a traditional ryokan with tatami and futon (we chose Ito Ryokan di Tokyo we find HERE), or in an ultra-modern capsule hotel like the Resol hotel, find it HERE. Both options provide unforgettable memories.

20.TeamLab

This digital, interactive experience will make you feel like you’re inside a dream. Lights, sounds, and spectacular projections immerse you in a dreamlike world truly unmissable! Get your or on the official website HERE.

These are my top 20 favorite experiences to have in Tokyo. Now, all that’s left is to wish you an amazing trip to ✈️🇯🇵✨