Tokyo, Japan
Top places to visit in Tokyo
6 places worth your time in Tokyo, with what each is actually like and when to go.
Last updated 2026-08-08
1. Senso-ji
Photo: Gustave67 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Tokyo's oldest temple, founded in 645, approached through the Kaminarimon gate and a long lane of traditional snack and craft stalls.
- Where: Asakusa
- Map: Open in Maps
- Best time: Before 08:00 or after dark, when Nakamise-dori is empty and the gate is lit
2. Meiji Jingu
Photo: User Welda on en.wikipedia · Public domain · source
A Shinto shrine to the Meiji Emperor set in 70 hectares of planted forest, entered through enormous cypress torii.
- Where: Shibuya, beside Harajuku station
- Map: Open in Maps
- Tip: Bow once at the torii, and keep to the sides of the path — the centre is traditionally reserved for the deity.
3. Shibuya Crossing and Shibuya Sky
Photo: Real Estate Japan from Tokyo, Japan · CC BY 2.0 · source
The scramble crossing, and the open-air rooftop deck above it that gives the only clean overhead view.
- Where: Shibuya
- Map: Open in Maps
- Best time: Sunset slots at Shibuya Sky, booked well ahead
4. Tsukiji Outer Market
Photo: Aimaimyi · CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
The wholesale auction moved to Toyosu, but the outer market's knife shops, tamagoyaki stands and sushi counters remain.
- Where: Tsukiji
- Map: Open in Maps
- Best time: 08:00–11:00; much of it closes by early afternoon
5. Shinjuku Gyoen
Photo: Kakidai · CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
A large garden combining English landscape, French formal and Japanese traditional styles — the best cherry blossom in central Tokyo.
- Map: Open in Maps
- Best time: Late March to early April for sakura, November for maple
- Cost: 500 JPY
6. teamLab digital art museums
Photo: The White House from Washington, DC · Public domain · source
Room-scale immersive installations that respond to movement. Genuinely unlike anything else, and heavily booked.
- Map: Open in Maps
- Tip: Timed tickets only, often sold out weeks ahead. Wear something other than a short skirt — several floors are mirrored.
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