Top 10 things to do in Tokyo, Japan
Approximate reading time: 12-15 minutes
Team MarVe
Table of contents
Introduction
Disclaimers
Top 10 Things to Do in Tokyo
Tokyo Disneyland & Tokyo Disney Sea
Galaxy Harajuku
Take a Day Trip to Kamakura
Bless Your Eyes With the Scenic View of Mount Fuji
Make Your Own Cup Noodles at the Cup Noodle Museum
Indulge Your Inner Child at Akihabara
Immerse in the Rich Culture of Local Festivals
Visit and Pay Respects at Shrines and Temples
Explore the Taste of Japan
Go Shopping at Markets That Just Seem to Have It All!
Quick Tips
Places to stay at
Money
Transportation cards
Special tickets
Etiquette / Cultural customs
Ending Notes
Introduction
The Solhaugens
Found in the land of the rising sun, Tokyo serves as the capital and central transportation hub of Japan. This solidifies its role as the cultural center or melting pot of Japan – with so many interesting things to do, where do you even begin your journey in this dream-like place?
We might have a little bit of a bias here, as our daughter is named after the bright city of Tokyo. Still, we’re definitely not alone when we say this is one of our most favorite places to visit! With this guide on the best activities in Tokyo, it might just be yours, too.
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Disclaimers
Details including but not limited to operating hours and price may change. This article will contain affiliate links, which will come at no cost to you for clicking.
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Top 10 Things to Do in Tokyo
A Random Tokyo Travel Vlog (What to do in Tokyo)
Tokyo Disneyland & Tokyo Disney Sea
They really do mean it - it’s most magical place on Earth! I can’t wait to go back here with my own family next time. Whether you’re bringing your partner, best friends or just yourself, this is the perfect place for theme park enjoyers, especially if you like Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Disney princesses like Cinderella, and many more from your childhood!
Watch and come with baby Tokyo to Tokyo Disneyland.
Tokyo houses the first and only Disney Sea location, so be sure to check this off your bucket list. To really maximize your time, visit both Disneyland and Disney Sea, and check in at the hotel nearby to immerse yourself in the experience! It’s more convenient, too.
Disney Sea Tokyo Experience Travel Vlog
Pro Tip: Check for the availability of Starlight passes on off-peak seasons. You’ll be able to enter the theme park for a discounted price, with a catch: you can only enter from 3PM onwards.
Galaxy Harajuku
Tokyo, Japan
If you’re into photography or just want to get some cool photos, try visiting Galaxy Harajuku! Organized by the famous company behind Samsung technologies, Galaxy Harajuku is an installation that features activities and viewing experience all powered by their technology, of course. I enjoyed the ‘Social Galaxy’ room the most, because the wall of photos from my Instagram got me reminiscing about all of my travels. I went here in 2019 with my friend Cory, so I was able to get some pretty cool pictures here.
The best part about it is that entrance is completely free of charge – yup! You get to experience a VR of a mission to space, the social galaxy wall, a 4D theater and more, for no entrance fee at all, making it perfect for those who are traveling on a budget.
Dive Into Tokyo’s Anime Playground
Hunt rare merch, explore 10 floors of figures, and end with a shrine from Love Live! nostalgia.
Starts at just $32 per person
BOOK AKIHABARA TOUR HERE
Take a Day Trip to Kamakura
Known as Japan’s surf town, Kamakura is a quaint, charming place just an hour away from Tokyo by train. It’s hard not to fall in love with the seaside views in this town, which lends a Hawaiian-like vibe to the place.
It’s amazing that there is a place like Kamakura in such a busy landscape like Tokyo. Compared to the ever present hustle and bustle in Tokyo, Kamakura has a more laid back feel; just hearing the waves on the shore is already relaxing.
There are also many specialty shops and cafes, as well as a beautiful garden you can visit for a fee.
Bless Your Eyes With the Scenic View of Mount Fuji
Scenic View of Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is one of, if not the most iconic landmarks of Japan. It’s an active volcano blanketed beautifully in snow every winter season, and is one of three of Japan’s sacred mountains. Tourists flock her all year-round to see the stunning landform.
Lake Kawaguchiko is the usual place for viewing, since it’s the most accessible view of Mt. Fuji for all ages. However, if you want to wake up to the grandeur of Mt. Fuji, there’s a camping site nearby for seasoned and beginner campers.
This site is also especially famous in spring, and for good reason - cherry blossoms with Mt. Fuji in the background? There is no more picture perfect way to say you’ve been to Japan.
It’s advised to go there by booking a private van, especially if you’re in a big group or traveling with elderly tourists. (affiliate)
Experience Mount Fuji Like Never Before
Five epic stops. Legendary pagodas. Instagram-famous streets. And that surreal view of Fuji towering behind Lawson.
Starts at just $53 per person
Make Your Own Cup Noodles at the Cup Noodle Museum
About 30 minutes away from Central Tokyo by train is Yokohama, a port city that has been popular for centuries now. In recent years, it’s become more popular because of the Cup Noodle Museum in the Minato Mirai district. Yes, you read that right – a museum dedicated to cup noodles!
In this museum, visitors can learn all about the history of the cup noodle from the invention of ramen to current innovations in flavor.
With an entrance fee of Y500, you get access to most areas as well as the Noodles Bazaar food court where you can try various ways of having ramen. One of the most exciting parts of this museum is the ‘My Cup Noodles’ factory where you can customize your very own cup noodles from the flavor, toppings to the packaging! This activity costs Y500 per cup and comes with a very cute inflatable bag.
Indulge Your Inner Child at Akihabara
Of course, since Japan is home to anime, it only makes sense to have places dedicated to many beloved series. The biggest place I’ve encountered so far is Akihabara, where you can find store after store filled with anime memorabilia. Since my siblings are fans, this is where I get pasalubong for them, particularly at Jump Shop or Animate. They offer merchandise and books released exclusively in Japan only, so if you collect such goods, definitely stop by!
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Since Japan has also been one of the leading countries for game development, it’s expected to see Nintendo stores and full-blown arcades over at Akihabara, the electronics hub. From first person shooter games, rhythm games and dance dance revolution, there’s surely something for everyone at these fun places.
Immerse in the Rich Culture of Local Festivals
Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival
With its long documented history, it comes as no surprise that Japan has kept their culture rich by keeping certain traditions and festivals alive throughout the centuries. As travelers, Martin and I always make sure to immerse ourselves in the culture of the countries we visit so that we can treat them with utmost respect – and enjoy ourselves, of course!
In the spring, cherry-blossom viewing has to be one of the most sought after activities to do in Japan. At least, that’s true for me and Martin! It’s one of my dreams. Sometime during March to April, you can participate in the local cherry blossom viewing festival at Ueno to witness thousands of sakura trees paint the skies and streets in full bloom.
If you’re coming a little later after April, you might want to book your flight in time for the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival instead. It is said that Tokyo is the apparent origin of the prototype for fireworks, hence the cause for celebration every summer.
For winter lovers, there’s something for you, too! At Yokohama, Tokyo Skytree, and Omotesando, you can find regularly scheduled winter illumination shows that make great use of the snow blanketing Tokyo at that time. These are usually held throughout winter from December to February.
Visit and Pay Respects at Shrines and Temples
Despite its busy scenes, Tokyo still preserves many shrines and temples from many centuries ago. Tourists flock to these places to experience Japanese culture and appreciate the architecture, too. Just remember to be respectful when entering these sites!
In the heart of Shibuya is the Meiji-Jingu shrine, most popular every new year. Here, many visitors hold their first prayer for the year. Admission to the shrine grounds is free, with an additional Y500 for the inner garden and Y1000 for the museum.
Another famous temple in Asakusa is Sensoji Temple, most recognizable by its large thunder gate with a huge, red lantern hanging in the middle. It’s pretty hard to miss! Within the grounds of the temple is Shin Nakamise, a street lined with shops selling street food, traditional clothing, and souvenirs.
Explore the Taste of Japan
To really experience the authentic Japanese cuisine taste, I prefer going to restaurants where you can find lots of locals dining. Who knows, you might just find your next favorite in a hidden gem in the back alleys of Tokyo!
On my Japan trip last 2019, I explored Omoide Yokocho in Shibuya with my friend Cory and found so many lowkey izakaya or bars that just had some of the best food I’ve ever had. Do note that many are by reservation and most accept cash only, so be sure to check and politely excuse yourself if they don’t accept you as a walk-in!
Another must-have experience is the sushi conveyor belt restaurant, Kura Sushi. Here, you can get quality sushi for a lower price - it just tastes different to me! Maybe it’s the vibe? The water being different? Go and try it for yourself and let me know what you think!
Fast food chains like Yoshinoya, Sukiya, and Matsuya are going to be lifesavers on your trip. These are special to Japan, and if you do have them back at home, they likely won’t be the same - from service to taste.
Go Shopping at Markets That Just Seem to Have It All!
I already mentioned Shin Nakamise in Asakusa, but Ueno also has Ameya Yokocho. Accessible by a short walk away from Ueno Park, Ameya Yokocho boasts many varieties of shops selling authentic, traditional Japanese products like matcha, yukata or traditional clothing, or tax-free apparel stores from places like ABC Mart if that’s your goal! If you get hungry, there are also food stalls and restaurants selling mostly grilled meat or seafood.
Now, you always hear people go crazy at Don Quijote – we aren’t safe from that, either! But a cheaper alternative is a pharmacy or drugstore you can find on most shopping streets in Tokyo, anyway. Sometimes, they have better prices for the usual pasalubong like Kit Kat, Royce chocolates, beauty products and the like.
It’s also less crowded since tourists like to experience Don Quijote for themselves, but I personally get overwhelmed with how huge that place is. Drugstores are a safer choice for me, and most likely, you’ll have one near your accommodation
100-yen stores like Daiso, CanDo and 3 coins are perfect if you’re looking for pasalubong on a budget! Even if the price is surprisingly low, these stores still have the cutest offerings and snacks you can surprise your loved ones with.
Looking for the perfect stay in Tokyo Japan?
Here are our top three hotel recommendations.
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Courtyard by Marriott Tokyo Station [ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ]
Address : Chuo-ku Kyobashi 2-1-3
THE BLOSSOM HIBIYA [ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ]
Address : Minato-ku Shinbashi 1-1-13
Tokyo Bay Shiomi Prince Hotel [ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ]
Address : Koto-ku Shiomi 2-8-16
Quick Tips
Money
While cashless options are available in most stores in Japan, always have cash on hand since some stores (especially locally run, small businesses) do not accept card payments. We’ve found that convenience store ATMs are the next best thing for withdrawing cash if there’s no money exchange nearby.
There’s also good news for all Filipinos using GCash! You can use the app abroad to pay in Japan at a good conversion rate. Just have them scan the QR code generated using AliPay+. If you use WePay or ApplePay, you can also look for the sign first before you ask.
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Transportation cards
If you haven’t gotten yourself an ICOCA, Suica, or PasMo yet, it might be the best time to get one (affiliate). Makes traveling that much easier!
Special tickets
Got the JR Pass? Make sure to keep it with you ALWAYS since it’s nonrefundable! If you want to know more about the Japan Rail Pass and its different alternatives, check out our article here (link to transpo article)!
Etiquette / Cultural customs
Remember to be respectful and mindful of Japanese culture while visiting, especially at shrines and temples.
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Are you ready to enter a tropical paradise? Book that much deserved beach vacation and skip the hassle of planning with Dream Philippines Tours. We’ll make sure that you get the very best beach experience wherever you choose to go. Dream Philippines Tours connects you to nothing but the best accommodations, services, and activities. Let Dream Philippines Tours handle all your planning concerns so that all you have to do is sit back, relax, and feel the seabreeze on your skin.
Ending Notes
I hope this helped you feel excited for your Japan trip (yes, we’re already claiming it!) or you can also use it as a guide for your itinerary.
If you’re planning to stick to local travels for now, we’ve also got just the thing for you – let Dream Tours Philippines handle the planning so you can enjoy El Nido, Siargao and Boracay without the stress!
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