The Best Things to do in Tokyo - Akbar Travels Blog

Over the first few months of 2026, there was an 18.3% surge in the number of Indian visitors in Japan, and Tokyo has been one of the most visited cities. Travellers have increasingly been engaging in classic and crowd favourite best things to do in Tokyo.

If you ever find yourself itching to go on a life-changing journey, one that will rattle your world views and fetch you unique core memories at the same time, Tokyo is your place. Because when it comes to fun and unique activities, Ghibli tours, go-karting on the streets, making sushi and Sumo matches are just the tip of the iceberg here. The best things to do in Tokyo are bound to surprise you.

The city, capital of one of the most futuristic countries in the world, is home to a world you’ve never seen or experienced before. It is often recommended as one of the most important places to visit in Japan, especially if you are a first timer. Many new travellers have been searching for queries like how much time does it take for Japan visa for Indians. Consider this your sign to explore the city as well.

They say, you could spend a year in Tokyo, and still have things you could never see or do. Nevertheless, if you can spend 5 to 7 days on a wholesome Tokyo trip this year, you can cover the city’s most charming highlights.

With spring and summer seasons just around the corner in Japan, now is the best time to book Tokyo tour packages.

For a head start on planning your trip, here is a list of the top 15 best things to do in Tokyo.

Enjoy The Views From The Famous Tokyo Skytree
Visit The Shibuya Crossing
Go Cosplay Gokarting
Explore TeamLab Planets or TeamLab Borderless
Visit The Ghibli Museum
Enjoy a Full Blown Kaiseki Meal
Visit the Sensoji Temple
Explore The Famous Akihabara
Watch a Sumo Wrestling Match
Watch a Kabuki Performance
Explore The Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – And Meditate
Experience Live Tuna Auctions At Toyosu Market
Drink at Golden Gai
Visit the Samurai Restaurant
Take a Japanese Calligraphy Class
Wrapping Up: The Best Things to Do in Tokyo
Frequently Asked Questions – The Best Things to Do in Tokyo

Enjoy The Views From The Famous Tokyo Skytree

The famous Tokyo Skytree during Spring, Tokyo, Japan
Image courtesy: Cris Foto/Shutterstock

Tokyo Skytree is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Located in Sumida city, it is easily accessible via train through multiple lines, and is also only a 20-minute walk from Asakusa. Standing 634 meters high, it is Tokyo’s broadcasting and observation tower, and is the second tallest building in the world, after the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Needless to say, it offers breathtaking views of Tokyo city, which is why it is one of the best things to do in Tokyo. While you’re here, don’t forget to take pictures for the gram.
You can easily visit this attraction while touring the city; book your accommodation at one of the best hotels in Tokyo, and take your time to explore.

Visit The Shibuya Crossing

A morning in Shibuya crossing, Tokyo Japan
Image courtesy: dotmiller1986/Shutterstock

Shibuya Crossing is known to be the world’s busiest intersection. It has even appeared in several Hollywood movies, and is famous for its bustling vibe. With five zebra crossings making this iconic destination, it is said that almost 3000 people scramble across this pedestrian intersection every two minutes at peak times. Visiting this world-famous Japanese landmark, and taking in the way the world moves would indeed be one of the best things to do in Tokyo.
In addition to enjoying the bustling atmosphere, you can also indulge in a few other touristy activities here, such as:

Enjoying panoramic views of the crossing up from Shibuya Sky
Visiting the famous Hachiko statue
Walking through the neon-lit streets in the night
Shopping
Indulging in street food

Also Read: Japan Visa For Indians: Requirements And How to Apply

Go Cosplay Gokarting

Mario Kart tour on the streets of Tokyo
Image courtesy: Yellow Cat/Shutterstock

If you’re a fan of any element of the otaku culture in Japan, cosplay go karting is hands down one of the best things to do in Tokyo. Visiting your favourite character’s world in a store is one thing; but dressing up in full costume and driving around the streets of Tokyo city is on a whole other level.
Yes, you get to drive around a tiny go-kart out on the real streets of Tokyo, as people watch, wave, and even take pictures. For the same reason, you will need an international driving permit for this activity. It is recommended to pick a time closer to sunrise or sunset so that there may be fewer crowds in the streets and because the city streets feel spectacular during the golden hours.

Explore TeamLab Planets or TeamLab Borderless

TeamLab Planets Art Museum in Tokyo
Image courtesy: Brester Irina/Shutterstock

TeamLab exhibitions are some of the most surreal displays of art in the world. With super-immersive elements, creative use of lights, projections, sound waves and other innovative attributes, these digital art museums offer an experience like no other.

While TeamLab Planets offers a more interactive experience with several rooms, including a stunning water area where you can walk barefoot, a live garden, a fun play area, and a vegan ramen shop, TeamLab Borderless is newer and hence offers newer, more innovative displays. Borderless is also more centrally located near Azabudai Hills.

If you enjoy art, visiting TeamLab museums will be one of the most unique things you will do in Tokyo.

Visit The Ghibli Museum

Ghibli Museum, Mitaka, Tokyo
Image courtesy: Rafael Dias Katayama/Shutterstock

The iconic Ghibli Museum in Tokyo, is the epitome of whimsy meets reality in Japan. It beautifully showcases the magic of the Studio Ghibli world. This easily makes it one of the top 10 things to do in Tokyo, especially if you are a Ghibli fan. It features a host of fun and immersive experiences, such as the Saturn Theater that shows exclusive original short animated films, a rooftop garden, the Cat Bus Room that comes with a large plush Catbus from My Neighbour Totoro, a themed straw hat cafe and the Mamma Aiuto Gift Shop that offers exclusive merchandise, among many other things.

Tickets to explore this gem of a Tokyo tourist attraction must be booked through advanced reservations.

For a safe bet, try to look for tickets to visit the Ghibli Museum right when you finish booking cheap flights to Tokyo so that your visit is confirmed and hassle free.

Enjoy a Full Blown Kaiseki Meal

A Japanese gourmet kaiseki dinner made of many small dishes, served in a traditional hotel Ryokan
Image courtesy: julianne.hide/Shutterstock

Kaiseki is one of the most elaborate and carefully prepared meals you will ever have. It is Japan’s famous multi-course fine-dining experience, and comprises around 7 to 15 dishes, each made with fresh local ingredients. These meals are also known for their artistic plating techniques, seasonal flavours, as well as “omotenashi” or wholehearted hospitality. This form of Japanese haute cuisine is something you must try at a traditional Ryokan in Tokyo. It is one-of-a-kind and offers something more than just flavours and taste.

A standard Kaiseki meal will most likely include the following:

Appetizers or Sakizuke
Seasonal theme setters or Hassun
Sashimi or Mukozuke
Grilled fish or Yakimono
Simmered vegetables or Takiawase
Rice and soup items

Visit the Sensoji Temple

Sensoji Temple also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple , Tokyo, Japan
Image courtesy: TriratP/Shutterstock

The Senoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo is a treat for the eyes and the soul. Set in Japan’s most traditional neighborhood, this Buddhist temple exudes serenity and vibrance at the same time.

Aside from the bright red aesthetics and clean surroundings of the temple that stand out, you will also find lush gardens and quieter shrines to explore. At the main temple, visit the fortune teller to try your hand. And cover yourself in incense as well, for good luck.

Explore The Famous Akihabara

The bustling Akihabara district, Tokyo Japan
Image courtesy: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Japan’s electric town is an experience like no other. Bustling with neon lights, anime stores, gaming centers, maid cafes, galleries, and more, Akihabara offers a wholesome indulgence into the otaku culture of Japan. Even if you are not a fan of anime, visiting this attraction is something you must do in Tokyo, as some of the experiences here are quirky, unforgettable, and rare.

For example, driving around in Mario karts, dressing up in your favourite cosplay costumes and having a photoshoot, and interacting with cute maids who will cast spells on your food to make it tastier, are not the kind of things you can do any other day.

Also Read: How to Plan an Easy Japan Trip From India: A Comprehensive Japan Tour Guide

Watch a Sumo Wrestling Match

A Sumo wrestling match underway in Tokyo
Image courtesy: J. Henning Buchholz/Shutterstock

Sumo wrestling is Japan’s most coveted, highly ritualized and ancient sport. It involves two wrestlers or rikishi, engaging in full-contact wrestling, attempting to force each other out of the ring or dohyo.

What makes getting to watch this sport a rare feat, in addition to its ancient origins, is the fact that there are only 6 sumo tournaments held in Japan each year. Of the six, three are held in Tokyo, near the Ryogoku Station in January, May and September.

Watching a match up close is one of the best things to do in Tokyo, as it showcases Japan’s unique culture at its finest.

Watch a Kabuki Performance

Kabuki is an ancient, 400-year-old Japanese performing art form that combines dance, drama, song, and stylized expressions. It is often referred to as a “total art form” as it uses elaborate makeup, costumes, and emotionally charged storytelling. Performed exclusively by male actors, this theatrical extravaganza also includes female impersonators known as onnogata.

A typical traditional Kabuki performance is characterized by intense, exaggerated acting, signature poses to indicate peak scenes or moments, live traditional music, stage props, and solid themes for stories. Needless to say, it is unlike any other traditional performance. This makes it one of the top things to do in Tokyo.

While Kabuki performances are typically long and can last throughout a whole day sometimes, you can also book tickets to watch single acts within a story.

Explore The Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – And Meditate

Landscape view of the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden in Tokyo
Image courtesy: DiegoMariottini/Shutterstock

The Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one of the many stunningly beautiful zen gardens that Japan has. It is known for its skyscraper backdrops and gorgeous cherry blossoms in April. The fall season also brings its own magical hues.
Boasting stunning arrays of trees, botanicals, shrubs, flowers, ponds, pagodas, pathways and the utmost tranquil ambience, the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a striking oasis set in the heart of the city. While you’re here, along with soaking up with the lush greens, try your hand at meditation too. These gardens are designed for deep contemplation, and not just walking.

Experience Live Tuna Auctions At Toyosu Market

A tuna auction at Toyosu Market, Tokyo
Image courtesy: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

The Toyosu fish market in Japan is the world’s largest, most modern, and bustling wholesale seafood market. Best known for its high-speed tuna actions, ultra-fresh seafood, and modern infrastructure designed to maintain the highest quality of its catch, Toyosu replaced the old Tsukiji market when it closed down in 2018.

The new market also holds the record for the most expensive tuna sold in Japan in 2020, when a 276 kg bluefin tuna was sold for a whopping $3 million USD.

Its early morning live tuna actions are one of its primary attractions. The market even has observation windows where visitors can watch the action. To see the auction from the lower, up-close observation decks, you will need to book in advance. It would undoubtedly be one of the top things to do in Tokyo, as it gives you a glimpse into the bustling lives of the locals in Japan.

Drink at Golden Gai

Narrow streets of Golden Gai restaurant area in Tokyo, Japan.
Image courtesy: Tupungato/Shutterstock

Golden Gai is an intriguing series of narrow streets in Shinjuku, Tokyo, lined with tiny bars instead of restaurants. Each of these bars has its own theme, personality, specialties, music, and sometimes even games or other activities.

Most of the bars have an entrance fee, and some may not allow foreigners. However, many of them are quite friendly, and make for a fun bar-hopping experience. Be sure to carry cash when visiting Golden Gai, and try some of the local drinks. While the prices may sometimes be high, the endearing experience would definitely be unforgettable. The taste and vibes are a whole other story. Especially if you are planning to visit Tokyo with a group of friends, Golden Gai would be one of the best places to visit in Japan.

Visit the Samurai Restaurant

A Samurai themed restaurant in Tokyo, Japan
Image courtesy: kuremo/Shutterstock

The Samurai Restaurant located in Shinjuku, which formerly was the Robot Restaurant, is best known for its unique high-energy cabaret shows and performances. Characterized by neon-lit props, robots, energetic and flamboyant acts, dancing demons and more, it offers an entertaining experience you’ll never find elsewhere. The show also uses a fusion of traditional and futuristic elements, such as taiko drums and robots.

In every way, it gives you an immersive experience, along with food and drinks. Visitors often describe the feeling to be colourful and kaleidoscopic. Dining at such a uniquely themed restaurant would undoubtedly be one of the best things to do in Tokyo.

Take a Japanese Calligraphy Class

Japanese Caligraphy Set
Image Courtesy: mypokcik/Shutterstock

The Japanese alphabet is art in itself. It makes the practice of writing an art form; something to indulge in mindfully and admire. This is why a Japanese calligraphy class is one of the best ways to wind up a Tokyo trip. In the Asakusa district you will find one to 1.5 hour-long calligraphy lessons. In these sessions, a master instructor will guide you through the art of writing artistically with a brush. At the end of the session, you will have your very own calligraphy piece to take home with you.

With an authentic calligraphy class like this, not only will you get to learn about an intricate art form associated with the Japanese alphabet, but also get to own a personalized souvenir to remember your trip by.

Also Read: Sushi And More: 10 Unique And Delicious Foods to Try in Japan

Wrapping Up: The Best Things to Do in Tokyo

Tokyo is one of those magical cities where the more you explore, the more you feel there is to do. It holds tradition, futuristic wonder, entertainment, and little surprises that you will never find anywhere else in the world. Whether it is touring the famous Ghibli museum, observing a live seafood auction, or watching an authentic Kabuki performance, Tokyo’s unique experiences are bound to be unforgettable for you.

This summer, make it a trip to remember; book an exciting Tokyo tour package. Before you do, make sure to apply for your Japan visa with a reliable provider of online visa services for 180+ countries, for a hassle-free journey.

Frequently Asked Questions – The Best Things to Do in Tokyo

Are 3 days enough in Tokyo?

3 days is considered enough to explore a few of the highlights of Tokyo. However, for a more in-depth experience, a trip of 7 to 8 days is recommended. It will let you explore the city without feeling rushed.

What to buy in Japan cheaply?

Some affordably/cheap things you can buy in Japan include:

Stationery (pens, notebooks and stickers)
Sheet masks
Drugstore beauty brands like DHC and Kose
Small kitchen gadgets
Matcha products
Gachapon
Traditional fans
Retro video games

Is it worth going to the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden?

Yes, visiting the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is generally considered well worth the experience, because of its wide variety of gardens, plants, and general ambience.

What is a must eat in Tokyo?

Some must eat foods in Tokyo include Edomae Sushi, ramen, Yakitori, Wagyu, fluffy pancakes, and candied sweet potatoes.

Which part of Tokyo is best for food?

Some of the best areas in Tokyo for food are:

Tsukiji Outer Market
Yotsuya Arakicho
Niku Yokocho, Shibuya
Kagurazaka Street
Tsukishima Monja Street

What are the top 5 tourist attractions in Tokyo?

The top 5 tourist attractions in Tokyo are:

Senso-Ji Temple in Asakusa
Shibuya Crossing
Tokyo Skytree
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Teamlab Planets

Is Shinjuku or Shibuya better in Tokyo?

Shinjuku and Shibuya offer different, equally exciting experiences and things to do. While Shinjuku is considered more of an adult district, Shibuya is known for being a youth district. Consider visiting both regions to experience the multi-faceted appeal of Tokyo city.

Which month is better to visit Tokyo?

The best time to visit Tokyo is during the spring season from March to May. The fall season from October to November is also a popular time. While the spring season brings beautiful Sakura blooms and sunny weather, autumn brings stunning foliage and cool weather.

Where should first-time visitors stay in Tokyo?

Shibuya or Asakusa are often recommended as some of the best areas to stay for first-time visitors in Tokyo. These places are well-connected by public transport and are in proximity to major attractions in the capital city.

Is Tokyo walkable?

Tokyo, in its entirety, is a colossal city and is not walkable per se. However, the individual neighborhoods in Tokyo, such as Shibuya, Harajuku etc. are much easier to navigate and are walkable.

What’s the best time of day to book international travel?

The best time to book international travel is usually early mornings on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Airlines are known to release flash sales and discounts during midweek nights, which results in some of the lowest fares between 5 am and 9 am.

How much bank balance is required for Japan tourist visa from India?

While there is no official requirement for a specific bank balance to obtain Japan tourist visa from India, it is advised to maintain between Rs. 3 lakhs and Rs. 5 lakhs for a smooth solo trip to cover expenses including flights, hotels and daily activities.

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