Things to Do in Tokyo

Akihabara (Electric Town) (Free to explore) — The anime, manga, and gaming capital of the world. Multi-storey arcades, retro game shops, and maid cafes. Even if you're not into anime, the sensory overload is an experience in itself

Day trip to Nikko or Kamakura (~$15-30 transport) — The Great Buddha of Kamakura (1 hour south) or the ornate Toshogu Shrine in Nikko (2 hours north) make excellent day trips from Tokyo

Harajuku & Takeshita Street (Free) — Tokyo's youth fashion epicentre. Wild street style, quirky shops, crepe stands, and themed cafes. Explore the quieter backstreets of Ura-Harajuku for vintage shopping and independent boutiques

Meiji Jingu Shrine (Free) — A tranquil Shinto shrine set in 70 hectares of forested parkland in the heart of Harajuku. A peaceful contrast to the surrounding urban energy

Senso-ji Temple & Asakusa (Free) — Tokyo's oldest temple, dating to 645 AD. Walk through the iconic Kaminarimon thunder gate and browse Nakamise-dori shopping street for traditional snacks and souvenirs

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue (Free) — The world's busiest pedestrian crossing is mesmerising to watch and walk. Head to the Shibuya Sky observation deck (~$15) or the Starbucks above the crossing for the best views

Shinjuku Golden Gai (Free to explore; drinks $5-10) — A labyrinth of over 200 tiny bars crammed into six narrow alleys. Each bar seats 5-10 people. Some charge a small seating fee (¥500-1000), but the atmosphere is unmatched

Sumo Wrestling (Tickets from ~$30; morning practice free) — Catch a tournament at Ryogoku Kokugikan in January, May, or September. Between tournaments, some stables allow free morning practice viewing — arrive by 7am

TeamLab Planets (~$25) — An immersive digital art experience where you wade through water, walk on mirrors, and lose yourself in kaleidoscopic light installations. Book tickets online in advance — it sells out

Tsukiji Outer Market (~$10-20 for grazing) — The original fish market moved to Toyosu, but the outer market remains a street food paradise. Graze on fresh sushi, tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette), grilled seafood skewers, and matcha treats

Yoyogi Park & Sunday Performers (Free) — Adjacent to Meiji Shrine, this sprawling park comes alive on weekends with musicians, cosplayers, and performers. Prime cherry blossom viewing spot in late March/early April