Best Places to Visit in Tokyo Japan: Top 30 Spots for Culture, Food & Hidden Gems

22 April 2025

Planning a trip to Japan’s capital? Discover the best places to visit in Tokyo Japan—from iconic temples and gardens to trendy cafés, shopping streets, and must-see museums. Your ultimate Tokyo travel guide starts here!

North Tokyo: Ikebukuro / Komagome / Korakuen

Things to Do & Gardens

Rikugi-en

📍 6 Chome-16-3 Honkomagome, Bunkyo City
Designed in the 17th century, Rikugi-en is one of Tokyo’s most celebrated traditional gardens, protected by the city as a cultural treasure. Rolling hills and a large central pond form a picture-perfect example of Japanese landscape design. The garden’s charming teahouse, known for its delicate wagashi (traditional sweets), draws in curious visitors and sweet lovers alike. Come autumn, when the trees are ablaze with red maple leaves and the paths are gently illuminated, it becomes absolutely magical.
Entry: €2.40

Fukunoyu

📍 5 Chome-41-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo City
Slip into the warm waters of this retro-style public bath and step back in time. Fukunoyu isn’t just a sento—it’s an architectural gem, blending classic woodwork with vibrant mosaic tile and nostalgic murals of Mount Fuji. This unisex bathhouse (with gender-separated areas) reflects 1960s Tokyo aesthetics, and the inviting atmosphere makes it feel more like a cozy escape than a simple soak. Be sure to enjoy the aromatic bath and relax in the lounge afterward.
Entry: €3.75

Shopping in North Tokyo

Sunshine City

📍 3 Chome-1 Higashiikebukuro, Toshima City
Sunshine City is Tokyo’s largest shopping and entertainment complex—and a full-on adventure. Spread over nine stories, it houses shops of every kind, restaurants, an aquarium, a planetarium, and the biggest Pokémon Center in all of Japan. It’s a must-visit if you’re in the northern part of the city.

Don’t miss the Sky Circus observatory on the top floor—opened in 2016, this digital experience 251 meters above the ground features VR attractions and stunning panoramic views. Grab a drink at the bar while you take in the Tokyo skyline.
Sky Circus Entry: €9.60

Central Tokyo: Imperial Palace / Roppongi

Where to Stay

Mandarin Oriental Tokyo

📍 2 Chome-1-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku
Set in the towering Nihombashi Mitsui Tower, this five-star hotel is tailor-made for travelers who demand the best. With sweeping views of the city, Michelin-starred restaurants, a world-renowned spa, and flawless service, the Mandarin Oriental checks every luxury box.
From: €350

Aman Tokyo

📍 1 Chome-5-6 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku
Aman Tokyo brings a tranquil Japanese soul to urban luxury. The design fuses traditional materials—like camphor wood, washi screens, and dark stone—with dramatic modern proportions: 30-meter-high lobby ceilings, 71m² rooms, a sprawling 2,500m² spa, and a heated 30-meter indoor pool with breathtaking views. On clear days, you can spot Mount Fuji. Savor master-crafted sushi by Edomae chef Hiroyuki Musashi, or join a samurai sword lesson or kimono workshop. Steps from Tokyo Station and the Imperial Gardens.
From: €890

The Tokyo Edition (Toranomon)

📍 4-1-1 Toranomon, Minato-ku
Opened in June 2020, The Edition blends sleek design with an unbeatable location between Tokyo Tower and the Imperial Palace. Rooms are modern and minimal with stunning city views. There’s a heated pool, a spa, and a gym open late. Breakfast with a view of Tokyo Tower? Yes, please.
From: €314

K5

📍 3-5 Nihonbashi Kabuto-cho, Chuo-ku
Just a few minutes from Tokyo Station, this all-suite boutique hotel is the definition of cool. Think lush plants, moody lighting, and soft minimalism. There’s a hidden cocktail bar, a craft beer pub, and an artisanal coffee stand, all wrapped up in a cozy vibe.
From: €194

Candeo Roppongi

📍 6-7-11 Roppongi, Minato-ku
In one of Tokyo’s liveliest districts, this 4-star gem is perfect for travelers who want comfort without breaking the bank. Enjoy big rooms, a hearty breakfast, and a rooftop spa with killer skyline views.
From: €110

Gardens & Museums in Central Tokyo

Imperial Palace

📍 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City
The heart of Tokyo, both historically and geographically, the Imperial Palace is surrounded by massive moats and lush gardens. While the inner palace grounds are off-limits, the outer gardens are open to the public and ideal for peaceful walks or scenic jogs—there’s even a 5-km running loop around the perimeter. During cherry blossom season, head to Chidori-ga-fuchi for one of the most picturesque sakura experiences in the city. For a deeper look, join one of the guided tours to access the interior gardens.
Tip: There are public showers nearby for runners.

21_21 Design Sight

📍 9-7-6 Akasaka, Minato-ku
Like a concrete origami sculpture resting lightly on the lawn, this museum—designed by architectural legend Tadao Ando—is a poetic space for contemporary design. With rotating exhibits that blur the lines between art, design, and culture, it’s a must for creative minds.
Entry: €8

Roppongi Hills Mori Tower

📍 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato City
A vertical city with shops, restaurants, a cinema, and a jaw-dropping open-air observation deck at 270 meters. But its true cultural crown is the Mori Art Museum—Tokyo’s flagship for contemporary art. While the museum is currently under renovation, the tower’s gardens regularly host pop-up art installations worth checking out.

Bars & Restaurants in Central Tokyo

Ryugin

📍 7F Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, 1-1-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku
Just steps from Tokyo Station, this three-star Michelin restaurant reimagines the traditional kaiseki meal with daring creativity. From Hokkaido lamb to wild Ezo venison and even fugu (pufferfish) in winter, chef Seiji Yamamoto pushes the boundaries of Japanese haute cuisine. An unforgettable experience for food connoisseurs.
Menu from: €402

Yonezawa Gyu Oki

📍 1-9-1 Chiyoda-ku
Located inside Tokyo Station, Yonezawa Gyu Oki is all about wagyu—served as sushi, hot pot (nabe), or grilled yakiniku. The restaurant specializes in Yonezawa beef, one of Japan’s finest breeds. Simple, elegant, and pure indulgence.
Price range: €16–47

Ippodo Tea House

📍 3-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku
This legendary Kyoto-based tea house offers immersive workshops in the art of Japanese tea, just steps from the Imperial Palace. Learn to prepare matcha, gyokuro, sencha, and more. The space is as refined as the teas themselves.
Workshop: €30 (English available)

West Tokyo: Shibuya / Shinjuku / Harajuku / Yoyogi / Omotesando

Where to Eat & Drink

Miyashita Park

📍 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Shibuya’s skyline got an upgrade with this rooftop park-meets-shopping center. Grab takoyaki (octopus fritters), grilled skewers, or yakisoba (fried noodles) from the lower-level food stalls and picnic on the rooftop lawn—just above the skate ramp and climbing wall.
Entry: Free

Spring Valley Brewery

📍 13-1 Daikanyama, Shibuya-ku
A sleek beer hall in a repurposed warehouse in trendy Daikanyama. Behind a glass wall is the brewery itself. Go for the beer flight (six varieties in mini glasses) and grab a terrace seat when the sun’s out.
Beer from: €6

Soba House Konjiki Hototogisu

📍 3-34-2 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
A Michelin-starred ramen house that changed the noodle game in Tokyo. The signature bowl features sea bream broth, porcini mushroom oil, and truffle—yes, truffle. It’s tiny, so come early or prepare to queue.
From: €7.50

Café Rostro

📍 1 Chome-14-20 Tomigaya, Shibuya-ku
Just steps from Yoyogi Park, this local favorite serves house-roasted beans on a calm leafy terrace. Perfect for slow mornings or quiet coffee breaks.
Coffee from: €2.80

Nanakusa

📍 2-22-5 Tomigaya, Shibuya-ku
Named after a traditional New Year’s dish made with seven herbs, chef Rica Maezawa’s restaurant revives historic recipes with elegant flair. It’s intimate, slow-paced, and deeply seasonal.
Menu from: €65

Cultural Stops, Museums & Garden Walks in West Tokyo

D47 Museum

📍 8F Hikarie Building, 2 Chome-21-1 Shibuya-ku
Housed on the upper floors of the stylish Hikarie building, this compact yet compelling museum explores Japan through 47 carefully curated objects—each representing a different prefecture. It’s a design-lover’s dream, with excellent storytelling and exhibits. Afterwards, pop into D47 Shokudo on the same floor to taste regional dishes.
Entry: Free | Meals from €12

Daikanyama T-Site

📍 16-15 Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku
A serene oasis of culture and coffee. These three glass buildings—connected by a suspended walkway—are home to one of Tokyo’s best bookstores, curated music and film sections, a high-end café, and lifestyle shops. Time disappears here.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

📍 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku-ku
Once reserved for the Imperial family, this sprawling park blends Japanese, English, and French garden styles across its spacious grounds. It’s a go-to spot for cherry blossom season, but equally gorgeous year-round with koi ponds, teahouses, and forest paths.
Entry: €4

Shimokitazawa

📍 Start at Shimokitazawa Station (Central Exit)
Shimokita is Tokyo in village mode—laid-back, artsy, and endlessly photogenic. Vintage shops, cozy cafés, and street art line its car-free alleys. Don’t miss Bonus Track, a newly built cultural mini-village with independent bookshops, creative studios, and a charming courtyard for snacks like onigiri.

Gotoku-ji Temple

📍 2 Chome-24-7 Gotokuji, Setagaya-ku
Known as the birthplace of the lucky beckoning cat (maneki-neko), this quiet temple is guarded by hundreds of tiny paw-waving statues. The peaceful grounds also include a striking three-tiered pagoda.
Entry: Free

Meiji Jingu Shrine

📍 1-1 Yoyogi-Kamizonocho, Shibuya-ku
Tokyo’s grandest Shinto shrine sits within a 70-hectare forest that feels miles away from city life. At the main hall, shake the omikuji box for a poem-like fortune inspired by Emperor Meiji. On the way out, stop by the Meiji Museum (by Olympic stadium architect Kengo Kuma) or the peaceful Imperial Garden.
Shrine: Free | Garden: €4 | Museum: €8

Ota Memorial Museum of Art

📍 1-10-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku
For lovers of ukiyo-e woodblock prints, this cozy museum offers rotating exhibitions focused on Edo-period artists like Hokusai and Hiroshige. A quiet cultural gem tucked into bustling Harajuku.
Entry: €6.50

Shopping & Unique Finds in Shibuya and East Tokyo

Hands Shibuya / LOFT

📍 12-18 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku , 21-1 Udagawacho, Shibuya
Two iconic department stores that every shopper in Tokyo should experience. Think of them as giant lifestyle treasure troves, selling everything from bento boxes and stationery to beauty gadgets and travel gear. If you love browsing for quirky, useful things you never knew you needed—this is your happy place.

Musubi Furoshiki

📍 2-31-8 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku
Furoshiki—the ancient Japanese art of wrapping gifts in cloth—is having a serious comeback, and this shop is at the heart of it. Here, you’ll find beautifully designed fabric squares in every size and pattern, with staff happy to demonstrate clever ways to fold and tie. Sustainable, elegant, and uniquely Japanese.

Hotels in East Tokyo: Asakusa / Ueno / Akihabara

Wired Hotel Asakusa

📍 2 Chome-16-2 Asakusa, Taito-ku
Just a few blocks from Senso-ji Temple, this laid-back hotel is perfect for travelers on a budget. Expect soft pastel tones, wooden interiors, and big terraces overlooking the rooftops. The Japanese-style breakfast—featuring grilled fish and miso soup—is a must.
From: €115, breakfast included

Restaurants & Food Spots in East Tokyo

Nakasei

📍 1 Chome-39-13 Asakusa, Taito-ku
Near the iconic Senso-ji Temple, this historic tempura house has been delighting diners for six generations. With wooden interiors and a serene koi pond, Nakasei is as much about atmosphere as flavor. Try the classic tempura set or opt for the house specialty: tendon—crispy seafood over fluffy rice.
From: €20

Mizumachi

📍 1 Chome-2 Mukojima, Sumida-ku
A riverside shopping promenade linking Asakusa to the Tokyo Skytree—perfect for a scenic stroll. The café bar Deus Ex-Machina is a standout, offering cocktails with a retro twist. Plus, it’s all walkable along the Sumida River.
Cocktails from: €4.80

Kura Sushi Global Store Asakusa

📍 1 Chome-25-15 Asakusa, Taito-ku
This isn’t your typical sushi train. The “super kaiten” setup uses dual conveyor belts and robotic systems to deliver food and collect empty plates. Add in carnival-style games, a bottle-recycling robot, and fun prizes, and you’ve got a family-friendly dining experience that’s part meal, part theme park.
Plates from: €0.80

Kanda Kohju

📍 2-9-7 Kajicho, Chiyoda-ku
A hidden gem for sake lovers. Dimly lit with an intimate, upscale vibe, this izakaya specializes in pairings like foie gras sushi and yakitori. Settle in at the counter and let the sommelier guide you through the night.

Museums, Temples & Activities in East Tokyo

Senso-ji Temple

📍 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito-ku
Tokyo’s oldest and most beloved temple, Senso-ji is a must-see. Walk through the iconic Kaminarimon gate, browse the traditional shops along Nakamise-dori, and visit the main hall to offer incense to Kannon, the goddess of mercy. For photographers, it’s especially magical at night when the crowds thin and the lanterns glow.
Tip: Don’t leave without trying a fresh manju (sweet bun filled with red bean paste) from the stalls.
Private guided tours available.

Yanaka

📍 Start at Nippori Station
Yanaka feels like stepping into old Tokyo. This quiet neighborhood, untouched by war and disaster, is full of charming wooden houses, hidden shrines, and local cats lounging on rooftops. Rent a Tokyobike from a nearby sake merchant’s historic shop and pedal through narrow lanes lined with art galleries, cafés, and vintage shops.
Bike rental: from €20

Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum

📍 8-36 Ueno Koen, Taito-ku
Alongside the famous Mori Art Museum, this is one of Tokyo’s leading art institutions. Its impressive mix of permanent works and world-class temporary exhibitions makes it a must for lovers of fine art and Japanese sculpture.
Entry: €10.30

Tokyo National Museum

📍 13-9 Ueno Koen, Taito-ku
Japan’s most comprehensive collection of traditional art, Buddhist statues, samurai armor, and ancient scrolls. Prioritize the Gallery of Hōryū-ji Treasures and the Japanese art wing. Don’t miss the peaceful garden behind the museum—especially beautiful in spring.
Entry: €8 | Free for under 18s

Shopping Adventures in Akihabara, Kitchen Street & Ginza

Kappabashi-Dori (Kitchen Street)

📍 Taito-ku — Ginza Line to Tawaramachi Station, Exit 3
This legendary street between Asakusa and Ueno is a haven for chefs and food lovers. With nearly 200 stores selling everything from handmade knives to bento boxes and ceramic dishware, it’s also the go-to place for those shockingly realistic plastic food displays—called sampuru. Film buffs will love that Wim Wenders featured it in his documentary Tokyo-Ga.

Super Potato

📍 1 Chome-11-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku
Retro gamers, welcome to heaven. This nostalgic den in Akihabara stocks rare consoles, classic games, and collector’s items from every gaming era. The shop has a hardcore cult following—and for good reason. Expect everything from Famicom to Sega Saturn in pixel-perfect rows.

Mandarake Akihabara

📍 3 Chome-11-12 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku
A manga megastore that’s impossible to miss. With eight sprawling floors dedicated to Japanese comics, figurines, rare cards, anime scripts, and more, Mandarake is a temple of otaku culture. Come ready to browse—this place is vast and full of surprises.

Ginza Itoya

📍 2-7-15 Ginza, Chuo-ku
Tokyo’s ultimate paper store. This luxurious stationery paradise—open since 1904—spans several floors, each with a different theme. From artisanal washi to handmade journals and ink pens, everything is beautifully curated. Don’t miss the 8th floor for custom wrapping paper and craft goods.
Fun fact: The second floor, called “Share,” has everything you need to write a real letter home.

Last Stops: Art and River Views

Meguro River Promenade

📍 Meguro / Nakameguro
Nicknamed “Sakura River,” this peaceful stretch draws massive crowds in spring when the cherry blossoms form a pink canopy over the water. But even outside of hanami season, it’s a dreamy place to stroll. Expect riverside cafés, art galleries, and stylish boutiques lining both sides of the canal. Come evening, it’s one of the most romantic spots in the city.

teamLab Borderless

📍 Mori Building, Odaiba — borderless.teamlab.art
One of Tokyo’s most mind-blowing experiences. This immersive digital art museum is like stepping into a dream—where light, color, and sound respond to your movement. The “Walk, Walk, Walk” exhibit even shifts with the seasons. Odaiba’s futuristic setting makes it all feel even more surreal.
Entry: €25 | Children under 15: €8