Top 10doTokyo

Top 10 Best Places to Do in Tokyo

Tokyo offers endless experiences from ancient temples to cutting-edge digital art museums. Discover traditional tea ceremonies, world-class karaoke, sumo wrestling, and immersive art installations in this city where tradition meets innovation.

Updated January 21, 2026

All-Time Best

1.

teamLab Borderless & Planets

teamLab Borderless & Planets
$$$
Borderless: Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza B, B1F | Planets: 6-1-16 Toyosu, Koto-kuWebsite

Experience two of the world's most innovative digital art museums. teamLab Borderless features a borderless world where artworks move freely and merge into one another, while teamLab Planets offers a body-immersive experience where you wade barefoot through water and stunning light installations.

Highlights

  • World-famous digital art museums
  • Interactive installations respond to visitors
  • Planets: wade through water barefoot
  • Borderless: art without boundaries
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2.

Sumo Wrestling Experience

Sumo Wrestling Experience
$$$
Ryogoku Kokugikan, 1-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida-kuWebsite

Witness Japan's ancient national sport at the legendary Ryogoku Kokugikan arena. Grand tournaments (honbasho) are held in January, May, and September. Experience sacred rituals, dramatic matches between massive wrestlers, and the electric atmosphere of this 2,000-year-old tradition.

Highlights

  • Tokyo tournaments: January, May, September
  • Watch morning stable practice sessions
  • Visit the Sumo Museum
  • Book tickets 1 month in advance
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3.

Traditional Tea Ceremony

Traditional Tea Ceremony
$$
Multiple locations - Maikoya Asakusa: 1-8-5 Hanakawado, Taito-kuWebsite

Immerse yourself in the meditative art of Japanese tea ceremony (chado). Learn the philosophy of 'ichigo ichie' (one time, one meeting), proper etiquette, and prepare your own matcha in an authentic tatami room. Many experiences include wearing a beautiful kimono.

Highlights

  • Authentic matcha preparation
  • Traditional tatami room setting
  • Learn tea ceremony philosophy
  • Often includes kimono rental
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4.

Karaoke Experience

Karaoke Experience
$$
Karaoke Kan Shibuya: 30-8 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku

Belt out your favorite songs in Japan's beloved karaoke boxes. Private rooms come equipped with state-of-the-art sound systems, disco lights, costumes, and tambourines. Choose from thousands of songs in multiple languages with all-you-can-drink packages available.

Highlights

  • Private rooms for your group
  • Thousands of international songs
  • All-you-can-drink packages
  • Costume props available
  • Open until 5am
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5.

Onsen Hot Spring Experience

Onsen Hot Spring Experience
$$-$$$
Thermae-Yu: 1-1-2 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku | Oedo Onsen: 2-6-3 Aomi, Koto-kuWebsite

Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot spring baths, a cornerstone of Japanese wellness culture. Tokyo offers several onsen complexes with multiple bath types, saunas, outdoor pools, and relaxation areas. Experience the therapeutic benefits of mineral-rich waters.

Highlights

  • Multiple bath types and temperatures
  • Natural mineral-rich waters
  • Saunas and cold plunge pools
  • Tattoo-friendly options available
  • Open late night
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6.

Sushi Making Class

Sushi Making Class
$$$
Tokyo Sushi Academy: 2-10-12 Tsukishima, Chuo-kuWebsite

Learn the art of sushi-making from professional itamae (sushi chefs). Master the secrets of perfect sushi rice, fish selection, knife techniques, and nigiri/maki rolling. Classes often include a visit to Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh ingredients.

Highlights

  • Hands-on instruction from sushi masters
  • Learn rice preparation secrets
  • Fish cutting and selection techniques
  • Eat your creations afterwards
  • Small group sizes
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7.

Robot Restaurant Show

Robot Restaurant Show
$$$
1-7-7 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-kuWebsite

Dive into sensory overload at Tokyo's famous Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku's Kabukicho district. Giant robots, neon lights, taiko drummers, dancers in futuristic costumes, and laser shows create an only-in-Tokyo spectacle that defies description.

Highlights

  • Giant robot battles
  • Neon lights and laser shows
  • Multiple daily performances
  • Unique only-in-Tokyo experience
  • Book online for discounts
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8.

Street Go-Kart Experience

Street Go-Kart Experience
$$$
Multiple locations - Shibuya, Akihabara, Shinagawa

Race through Tokyo's streets in go-karts while dressed as your favorite video game or anime characters. Cruise past iconic landmarks like Tokyo Tower, Rainbow Bridge, and through bustling districts like Shibuya and Akihabara.

Highlights

  • Drive through real Tokyo streets
  • Dress up in character costumes
  • 1-3 hour course options
  • Pass famous landmarks
  • International Driving Permit required
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9.

Samurai Experience

Samurai Experience
$$$
Samurai Museum: 2-25-6 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-kuWebsite

Step into the world of the samurai with authentic sword training and armor fitting. Learn katana techniques from trained masters, understand the bushido code of honor, and don traditional samurai armor for stunning photo opportunities.

Highlights

  • Katana sword training
  • Wear authentic samurai armor
  • Learn bushido warrior philosophy
  • Professional photo session
  • English-speaking instructors
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10.

Sake Tasting Experience

Sake Tasting Experience
$$
Sake Plaza: 1-1-21 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-kuWebsite

Discover the depth and variety of Japan's national drink through guided sake tastings. Learn about different sake grades (junmai, ginjo, daiginjo), brewing regions, serving temperatures, and perfect food pairings from knowledgeable sommeliers.

Highlights

  • Taste multiple premium varieties
  • Learn brewing techniques
  • Understand sake grades and regions
  • Food pairing recommendations
  • Visit sake bars and izakayas
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Best of 2026

1.

teamLab Planets

teamLab Planets
$$$
6-1-16 Toyosu, Koto-kuWebsite

A body-immersive museum where you wade through knee-deep water and walk barefoot through stunning digital art installations. Experience the Infinity Mirror Room, koi fish that swim around your feet, and lying down in a sea of flowers.

Highlights

  • Wade through water installations
  • Walk barefoot through art
  • Wear shorts or knee-length pants
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2.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo
$$$$
1-1-7 Kasuga-cho, Nerima-kuWebsite

The Making of Harry Potter - Asia's first permanent Harry Potter attraction. Walk through meticulously recreated sets from the films including the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and Platform 9 3/4. See authentic props, costumes, and movie magic secrets.

Highlights

  • Asia's first Harry Potter studio tour
  • Walk through iconic sets
  • Book tickets in advance
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3.

Shibuya Sky Observation Deck

Shibuya Sky Observation Deck
$$$
Shibuya Scramble Square 14F-46F, 2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya-kuWebsite

The newest must-visit observation deck atop Shibuya Scramble Square. The rooftop Sky Stage at 229m offers 360-degree open-air views of Tokyo, perfect for sunset and night photography of the city lights below.

Highlights

  • Open-air rooftop at 229m
  • 360-degree Tokyo views
  • Stunning sunset spot
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Spring Activities

1.

Cherry Blossom Viewing (Hanami)

Cherry Blossom Viewing (Hanami)
$
Shinjuku Gyoen: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku-ku

Experience Japan's beloved sakura season by joining locals for hanami picnics under blooming cherry trees. Top spots include Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, Meguro River, and Chidorigafuchi moat near the Imperial Palace.

Highlights

  • Late March to early April
  • Bring a picnic blanket
  • Evening illuminations at many spots
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2.

Yoyogi Park Picnic

Yoyogi Park Picnic
Free
2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya-ku

Tokyo's Central Park equivalent comes alive in spring with cherry blossoms and street performers. Rent a bike, join spontaneous music sessions, and enjoy the bohemian atmosphere near Harajuku.

Highlights

  • Perfect for picnics
  • Near Harajuku & Meiji Shrine
  • Weekend street performers
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Winter Activities

1.

Winter Illuminations

Winter Illuminations
Free
Marunouchi: Near Tokyo Station, Chiyoda-ku

Tokyo transforms into a wonderland of lights from November to February. Don't miss the spectacular displays at Marunouchi, Roppongi Hills, Shiodome Caretta, and the famous blue tunnel at Nakameguro.

Highlights

  • November to February
  • Free to view
  • Perfect for evening strolls
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2.

Onsen Day Trip to Hakone

Onsen Day Trip to Hakone
$$$
Hakone (1.5 hours from Shinjuku via Romancecar)

Escape Tokyo for a day trip to Hakone's famous hot spring resorts. Soak in natural onsen baths with views of Mount Fuji, explore the volcanic Owakudani valley, and cruise Lake Ashi.

Highlights

  • Natural hot spring baths
  • Mt. Fuji views (weather permitting)
  • Hakone Free Pass recommended
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3.

January Sumo Tournament

January Sumo Tournament
$$$
Ryogoku Kokugikan, 1-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida-ku

The first grand sumo tournament of the year (Hatsu Basho) brings top wrestlers to Ryogoku Kokugikan. Experience the ceremonial rituals, dramatic matches, and festive New Year atmosphere.

Highlights

  • January 11-25, 2026
  • Tickets released early December
  • Book through official site
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January Activities

1.

Hatsumode (First Shrine Visit)

Hatsumode (First Shrine Visit)
Free
Meiji Shrine: 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya-ku

Join millions of Japanese in the tradition of visiting shrines during the first days of the new year. Meiji Shrine sees over 3 million visitors, while Senso-ji and Kanda Myojin offer equally festive atmospheres.

Highlights

  • First 3 days of January
  • Draw omikuji fortunes
  • Buy good luck charms (omamori)
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2.

Winter Sale Shopping

Winter Sale Shopping
$$
Ginza: Chuo-ku / Shibuya 109: 2-29-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku

January brings massive winter sales (fukubukuro - lucky bags) at department stores and fashion districts. Score amazing deals at Ginza, Shibuya 109, and Harajuku during the post-New Year sales.

Highlights

  • Fukubukuro lucky bags
  • Up to 70% off
  • Lines form early on Jan 1-2
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Frequently Asked Questions

Each season offers unique experiences. Spring (late March-April) is ideal for cherry blossom viewing. Summer (June-August) features festivals and fireworks but is hot and humid. Autumn (September-November) offers pleasant weather and fall foliage. Winter (December-February) has fewer tourists, beautiful illuminations, and sumo tournaments in January.

Yes, for popular attractions like teamLab Borderless, teamLab Planets, sumo tournaments, and Warner Bros. Studio Tour, advance booking is essential - often weeks or months ahead. Tea ceremonies, cooking classes, and observation decks can usually be booked a few days in advance. Temples and shrines are free to visit without reservations.

Sumo tournaments are held in Tokyo in January, May, and September at Ryogoku Kokugikan. Tickets go on sale about one month before each tournament (usually the first Saturday of the prior month) through the official site sumo.pia.jp. They sell out quickly, especially for weekends. Consider a package tour if official tickets are unavailable.

Absolutely! Many of Tokyo's best experiences are free: visiting Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Shrine, watching Shibuya Crossing, exploring Tsukiji Outer Market (food costs extra), walking through Harajuku and Akihabara, viewing winter illuminations, and enjoying parks like Yoyogi and Ueno. Many shrines and some museums have free admission.

Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll walk a lot. For teamLab Planets, wear shorts or clothes that can be rolled up (you wade in water) and skip skirts (mirror floors). For tea ceremonies, avoid short skirts and wear clean socks. Temples don't have strict dress codes but modest attire is respectful. Bring layers as indoor spaces can be heavily air-conditioned.