Welcome to Tokyo! Let me share 17 amazing places that show you the best of this wonderful city.
You’ll find peaceful gardens, exciting theme parks, historic temples, and lively shopping streets.
Each spot has its own special charm – some are perfect for photos, others for relaxing or having fun.
This guide will help you plan your Tokyo adventure and make great memories. 😊
1. Tokyo Disneyland
a. What Makes It Special
- First Disney park outside the USA (opened 1983)
- Seven themed areas: World Bazaar, Adventureland, Westernland, Critter Country, Fantasyland, Toontown, and Tomorrowland
- Classic Disney magic with unique Japanese touches
- Impeccable cleanliness and attention to detail
b. Must-See Attractions
- Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast: A magical trackless ride through iconic scenes with animatronics and classic songs from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.
- Space Mountain: A thrilling indoor coaster reaching speeds of 48km/h through a galaxy of lights and special effects.
- Pooh’s Hunny Hunt: A unique trackless dark ride based on Winnie the Pooh.
- Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek: Use a flashlight to discover hidden monsters throughout Monstropolis. Interactive fun for all ages.
- “it’s a small world”: A classic boat ride featuring dolls from around the world.
Read More: 20 Best Tokyo Disneyland Rides You Shouldn’t Skip for All
c. Shows and Parades
- Disney Harmony in Color: A daytime parade featuring Disney characters on colorful floats
- Tokyo Disneyland Electrical Parade Dreamlights: A nighttime parade with illuminated floats
- Nighttime fireworks display (check the schedule as it may not run daily)
d. Planning Your Visit
- Must buy tickets online – no ticket sales at park.
- Use the free Priority Pass (formerly FastPass) for popular attractions. Get the passes via the Tokyo Disney Resort App – they’re free but limited daily.
- Consider purchasing Disney Premier Access for popular rides to skip long lines.
- Download the Tokyo Disney Resort app before your visit – it’s super helpful for checking wait times, buying Premier Access, and even ordering food.
- Plan to arrive at least an hour before the park opens to beat the crowds.
e. How to Get There
- Take the JR Keiyo Line or JR Musashino Line to Maihama Station.
- When you arrive at Maihama Station, you should exit through the South Exit.
- Follow the crowd and go straight.
- The walk from Maihama Station to Tokyo Disneyland takes about 5 minutes.
Read More: How to Go to Tokyo Disneyland
2. Nakamise Shopping Street
a. What Makes It Special
- One of Japan’s oldest shopping streets (1700s)
- Located right in front of Sensoji Temple
- 250 meters long with 90 traditional shops
- Perfect mix of old and new Japanese souvenirs
- Feels like you’re walking through historic Tokyo
b. Must-Try Street Foods
- Dango (Asakusa Soratsuki): Colorful mochi skewers topped with fresh strawberries and sweet bean paste in various flavors.
- Ningyo Yaki (Kimuraya): Sweet bean-filled cakes shaped like dolls and landmarks.
- Kibi Dango (Kibidango Azuma): Soft rice cakes with soybean powder coating.
- Age Manju (Asakusa Kokonoe): Hot fried buns with red bean, matcha, or chocolate filling.
- Rice Crackers (Tokiwado Kaminari-okoshi Honpo): Fresh-grilled crackers in various flavors.
- Asakusa Menchi: Crispy meat croquettes.
- Melon Pan (Kagetsudo): Sweet bread with a crispy sugar coating.
c. How to Get There
- By Tokyo Metro: Take the Ginza Line to Asakusa Station. Use Exit 1, which leads directly to Nakamise Shopping Street.
- By Toei Subway: Take the Asakusa Line to Asakusa Station. Use Exit A4, then walk about 5 minutes to reach Nakamise Shopping Street.
- By Tobu Railway: Take the Tobu Skytree Line to Asakusa Station. Use the main exit and walk about 5 minutes to Nakamise Shopping Street.
*Tip: Look for the large Kaminarimon Gate, which marks the entrance to Nakamise Shopping Street.
Read More: 17 Wonderful Things to Do in Asakusa
3. Shibuya Sky
a. What Makes It Special
- Highest open-air observation deck in Tokyo at 229 meters (751 feet) above ground
- 360-degree panoramic views of Tokyo’s skyline
- Located directly above the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing
- Offers both indoor and outdoor viewing areas
- Combines cutting-edge technology with breathtaking vistas
b. What to Do at Sky Gate (14th Floor)
- The entrance to Shibuya Sky is on the 14th floor of Shibuya Scramble Square
- Take the high-speed elevator to the 45th floor
- Experience the immersive “Transition” area with digital art installations
c. Exploring Sky Gallery (46th Floor)
- Store your belongings in the 100-yen lockers (coin returned upon exit)
- Enjoy indoor observation areas with floor-to-ceiling windows
- Interact with digital art installations and informative exhibits
- Browse the souvenir shop for unique Shibuya Sky merchandise
d. Experiencing Sky Stage (Rooftop)
- Take the glass-walled escalator to the open-air observation deck
- Walk around the entire perimeter for 360-degree views
- Spot famous landmarks like Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, and Mt. Fuji
- Capture the Shibuya Scramble Crossing from above
- Relax on the “Cloud Hammock” suspended above the city
- Visit “Sky Edge” corner for unobstructed views (popular photo spot)
e. Practical Tips
- Book your tickets online 4 weeks in advance for the best time slots
- You can bring cameras, but tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks aren’t allowed
- Come early to catch the sunset, or arrive later to view the city’s nighttime lights
- During your elevator ride, watch out for an exciting 3D sound and light show
f. How to Get There
- Take the JR Yamanote Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line, Den-en-toshi Line, Keio Inokashira Line, or Tokyo Metro (Ginza, Hanzomon, Fukutoshin lines) to Shibuya Station.
- Follow signs for the East Exit or Shibuya Scramble Square Exit.
- Take the elevator to the 14th floor, where the Shibuya Sky entrance is located.
Read More: 17 Top Things to Do in Shibuya with My Ideal Itinerary
4. Sensoji Temple
a. What Makes It Special
- Tokyo’s oldest temple since 628 CE
- One of the world’s most-visited temples (30+ million yearly worshippers)
- Dedicated to Kannon (Buddhist goddess of mercy)
- Features the famous Kaminarimon Gate and five-story pagoda
b. Entering the Temple Grounds
- Start at Kaminarimon Gate – look for the huge red lantern
- Look for the statues of the gods of wind and thunder on either side of the gate
- Walk through Nakamise Shopping Street (250m shopping path)
- Pass through Hozomon Gate – the second main entrance with guardian statues
- Stop at the large incense burner – wave smoke over yourself for good luck
- Find the 5-story pagoda on your left – it’s 55 meters tall and great for photos
c. Exploring the Main Hall
- Visit the main hall (Hondo) to offer prayers and light incense
- Check out the beautiful ceiling art
- Look for the large incense burner in front of the main hall
d. How to Get There
- By Tokyo Metro: Take the Ginza Line to Asakusa Station. Use Exit 1, which leads directly to Nakamise Shopping Street and Sensoji Temple.
- By Toei Subway: Take the Asakusa Line to Asakusa Station. Use Exit A4, then walk about 5 minutes to reach the temple.
- By Tobu Railway: Take the Tobu Skytree Line to Asakusa Station. Use the main exit and walk about 5 minutes to the temple.
Read More: Tokyo Itinerary: The Best 7-Day Guide for a Fantastic Trip
5. teamLab Borderless Tokyo
a. What Makes It Special
- You’ll discover over 50 interactive artworks that seamlessly blend together
- Experience a unique “borderless” concept where art flows freely between spaces
- Explore at your own rhythm – there’s no fixed path or time restriction
- Watch as artworks transform and respond to your presence and others around you
- Immerse yourself fully as the experience engages all your senses
- See how art, science, technology, and nature come together in fascinating ways
b. Key Exhibits to Experience
- Bubble Universe: Step into a magical realm where glowing spheres of light float around you
- Light Sculpture: Experience towering illuminated structures that flow and move in your direction
- Sketch Ocean: Let your creativity swim free as you design sea creatures that spring to life in a virtual ocean
- Borderless World: Wander through an ever-changing digital environment where artwork flows naturally and transforms with each visitor’s presence
c. Tips for Enjoying Your Visit
- Don’t wear baggy shorts or skirts because of the mirrored floors
- Set aside 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the museum experience
- Let yourself get lost in the borderless world – that’s part of the experience!
- Remember to book your tickets in advance online for your preferred date and entry time
d. How to Get There
By Tokyo Metro: Take the Hibiya Line to Kamiyacho Station. Use Exit 5, which leads directly to teamLab Borderless.
Read More: 10 Places I Regret Not Visiting in Tokyo
6. Kabukicho
a. What Makes It Special
- Tokyo’s biggest and brightest entertainment district
- A bustling nightlife paradise with endless dining and entertainment options
- Kabukicho offers a glimpse into modern Japanese urban culture and nightlife
b. Planning Your Visit
- Best time to visit: After 6 PM when all the neon lights turn on
- Perfect for dinner and evening entertainment
c. Top Attractions
- Godzilla Head: A massive roaring monster statue on top of Hotel Gracery. Catch the hourly shows with roars and steam effects from 12 PM to 8 PM.
- Golden Gai: A network of 6 narrow alleys filled with over 200 tiny bars. Each bar fits only 5-10 people and has a unique theme.
- Hanazono Shrine: A beautiful traditional Shinto shrine right in the heart of Kabukicho.
- Don Quijote (“Donki”): Huge 24/7 discount store selling everything. Find Japanese snacks, beauty products, electronics, clothes, and great souvenirs at good prices.
- Kabukicho Gate: The famous entrance with bright red neon lights. Best photo spot to capture the district’s energy, especially after dark.
d. Practical Tips
- Stay on main streets: Stick to busy, well-lit areas where most tourists hang out. It’s safer and more fun.
- Watch out for promoters: People might try to get you into their bars. Just say “No, thank you” and keep walking.
- Check prices first: Look for menu prices outside bars and clubs before going in. Avoid surprises on your bill.
- Keep belongings safe: Hold your bag close and keep valuables secure. The area gets very crowded at night.
e. How to Get There
- By JR Train: Take any JR line to Shinjuku Station. Use the East Exit or Central East Exit. It’s about an 8-minute walk to the heart of Kabukicho.
- By Tokyo Metro: Take the Marunouchi Line to Shinjuku Station. Use the East Exit. It’s about an 8-minute walk to the heart of Kabukicho.
- By Subway: Take the Oedo Line to Higashi-Shinjuku station. Use Exit A1, which is closer to Kabukicho.
Read More: 17 Best Things to Do in Shinjuku with My Perfect Itinerary
7. DisneySea
a. What Makes It Special
- It’s the only DisneySea park in the world, with unique theming based on ocean adventures
- Features eight themed ports of call, each with its own distinct atmosphere and attractions
- Known for its more adult-oriented atmosphere compared to other Disney parks
- Offers a blend of thrilling rides and immersive storytelling experiences
b. Must-Try Attractions
- Journey to the Center of the Earth: Thrilling volcano ride through Mount Prometheus.
- Soaring: Fantastic Flight: Fly over world landmarks in this breathtaking simulator.
- Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey: Boat ride through Arendelle with favorite Frozen songs.
- Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival: Magical boat ride under thousands of glowing lanterns.
c. Must Watch Show
- “Believe! Sea of Dreams” – nighttime spectacular at Mediterranean Harbor
- Features projections, lights, and Disney characters
- Best evening entertainment in the park
d. Tips for Maximizing Your Time
- Priority Pass (FREE):
- Get it through Tokyo Disney Resort App
- Available as soon as you enter the park
- Reduces wait times for select attractions
- Disney Premier Access (PAID):
- Skip lines at popular attractions
- Purchase through the app
- Single Rider Lines:
- Much shorter wait times
- Available at select attractions
- Perfect if you don’t mind riding separately
- Restaurant Planning:
- Make reservations through the app
- Book before your visit
- Avoid long waits during meal times
e. Planning Tips
- Buy tickets online – not available at park entrance
- Download Tokyo Disney Resort App for wait times and maps
f. How to Get There
- By JR Train: Take the JR Keiyo Line or Musashino Line to Maihama Station. The trip from Tokyo Station takes about 15 minutes.
- From Maihama Station: Exit through the South Exit and walk to Resort Gateway Station (about 2 minutes).
- By Disney Resort Line: From Resort Gateway Station, take the monorail to Tokyo DisneySea Station (about 9 minutes, 260 yen for adults).
- From Tokyo DisneySea Station: It’s a short 1-minute walk to the park entrance.
Read More: How to Get to Tokyo DisneySea
8. Warner Bros. Studio Tokyo
a. What Makes It Special
- It’s the largest indoor Harry Potter attraction in the world
- The Ministry of Magic set is exclusive to the Tokyo location
- Many of the props and costumes are original items from the films
- The attention to detail in the sets is incredible, allowing for an immersive experience
- It offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the movies were made
b. Planning Your Visit
- Book tickets in advance online – they’re not available for purchase at the attraction
- Choose a specific date and entry time slot when booking
- Plan to spend about 4 hours to fully enjoy the experience
- Check the official website for opening hours, which vary throughout the yea
c. Highlights of the Tour
- Experience the Tokyo-exclusive Ministry of Magic set
- Start your journey in the iconic Great Hall, complete with original costumes
- Explore the Forbidden Forest, with its lifelike magical creatures
- Visit Platform 9¾ and see the full-size Hogwarts Express
- Walk through the incredibly detailed Diagon Alley set
d. Interactive Experiences
- Ride a broomstick in front of a green screen
- Practice wand movements and “cast spells”
- Step into a moving portrait in the halls of Hogwarts
- Join the crowd in a Quidditch match video experience
- Create your own “wanted” poster in the Ministry of Magic
e. Food and Drinks
- Enjoy a meal at the Backlot Café, which offers both Western and Japanese options
- Try the famous Butterbeer at the Butterbeer Bar
- Grab a snack or dessert at the Food Hall near the entrance
- Consider having an early lunch to avoid long queues
- Bring a water bottle to refill, as the tour can be long
f. How to Get There
- From Ikebukuro Station: Take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line bound for Toshimaen and get off at Toshimaen Station. The journey takes about 17 minutes and costs 190 yen one way. Exit the station and walk straight for about 2 minutes.
- From Shinjuku Station: Take the Toei Oedo Line to Toshimaen Station. This takes about 20 minutes and costs 280 yen one way. Use Exit A2, turn left on the street in front of 7-Eleven, and walk for about 5 minutes.
Read More: 5 Days in Tokyo Itinerary: How to Do It Under $550
9. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
a. What Makes It Special
- An oasis of tranquility in the heart of bustling Tokyo
- Spans 58.3 hectares, offering ample space to explore and relax
- Features three distinct garden styles: Japanese, English, and French
- Home to over 20,000 trees, including 1,500 cherry trees
- Offers beautiful scenery year-round, with each season bringing unique charm
b. What to Do in the Japanese Garden
- Stroll along winding paths around serene ponds
- Visit the Taiwan Pavilion, a gift from the Taiwanese community
- Admire traditional Japanese landscaping techniques
- Photograph picturesque bridges and carefully pruned trees
c. Highlights of the French Formal Garden
- See over 100 varieties of roses in the rose garden (best in May and October)
- Admire the symmetrical design and geometric patterns
- Walk along straight paths lined with neatly trimmed hedges
- Enjoy the contrast between this structured area and the other gardens
- Photograph the beautiful flower beds, especially vibrant in spring and summer
d. Must-See Attractions
- The Greenhouse: Home to tropical and subtropical plants.
- Maple Hill: Spectacular autumn colors in late November.
- Cherry Blossom Area: Over 400 Somei Yoshino trees in full bloom during spring.
e. How to Get There
- By Tokyo Metro (Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station): Take the Marunouchi Line to Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station. Use Exit 1 and walk for about 5 minutes to reach the Shinjuku Gate or Exit 2 for the Okido Gate of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
- By Tokyo Metro (Shinjuku-sanchome Station): Take the Fukutoshin Line or Marunouchi Line to Shinjuku-sanchome Station. Use Exit E5 and walk for about 5 minutes to reach the Shinjuku Gate of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
- By Toei Subway: Take the Toei Shinjuku Line to Shinjuku-sanchome Station. Use exits C1 or C5 and walk about 5 minutes to reach the Shinjuku Gate of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
10. Shibuya Center-gai
a. What Makes It Special
- Being a hub of youth culture and fashion
- Vibrant atmosphere with crowds of people, especially young locals
- Neon signs and large video screens creating a lively ambiance
b. Shopping Experience
- Explore Shibuya 109, famous for its trendsetting women’s fashion
- Find a mix of international fast-fashion brands like H&M and ZARA
- Explore Japanese fashion chains such as Uniqlo and GU
- Browse electronics and gadgets at shops like Bic Camera
- Visit Mega Don Quijote, a multi-story discount store with everything from snacks to electronics
- Browse the Disney Store for official merchandise and cute souvenirs
c. Must Try Foods
- Uobei: Every plate starts at just 150 yen, making it an affordable choice.
- Mawashizushi Katsu Seibu Shibuya Store: A popular conveyor belt sushi restaurant with a wide selection.
- Yaro Ramen Shibuya Center Gai Sohonten: Famous for its hearty, stamina-boosting ramen.
- Chuka Menten Kiraku: A historic ramen shop operating since 1952, known for its classic Tokyo-style ramen.
- BeBu-Ya Shibuya: Enjoy an affordable unlimited Black Wagyu yakiniku experience, featuring carefully curated cuts.
- Steak Lodge: Popular for its affordable yet tasty steak options
d. How to Get There
- Exit Shibuya Station through the Hachiko Exit
- Cross the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing
- Look for the street next to the large Tsutaya store and Starbucks
- The entrance to Center-gai is right there, impossible to miss
- It’s about a 2-minute walk from the station exit
11. Ueno Park
a. What Makes It Special
- Japan’s first public park, established in 1873
- Sprawling 538,506.96 square meter urban oasis in the heart of Tokyo
- Home to major museums, a zoo, and historical temples
- Famous cherry blossom viewing spot with over 1,000 cherry trees
b. Top Attractions
- Ueno Toshogu Shrine: Ornate shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu.
- Ueno Zoo: Japan’s oldest zoo, home to giant pandas and 350+ species.
- Tokyo National Museum: Largest collection of Japanese art in the world.
- National Museum of Western Art: Houses works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso.
- Shinobazu Pond: Large pond with lotus flowers and rental boats.
c. How to Get There
- By JR Train: Take the JR Yamanote, Keihin-Tohoku, or other JR lines to Ueno Station. Use the “Park Exit” which leads directly to Ueno Park.
- By Tokyo Metro: Take the Ginza or Hibiya line to Ueno Station. Use Exit 7, which leads to Ueno Park.
12. Omoide Yokocho
a. What Makes It Special
- A narrow alley lined with small eateries and bars
- Often called “Piss Alley” due to its past lack of restrooms (don’t worry, there are public toilets now)
- Authentic glimpse into post-war Tokyo culture
- Known for its nostalgic atmosphere and traditional Japanese cuisine
b. What to Eat
- Sample yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) in various cuts and seasonings
- Try horumon (grilled offal) for a true local experience
- Order nikomi (simmered beef tendon stew) on colder nights
- Taste grilled vegetables like shishito peppers and thick-cut green onions
- Don’t miss the crispy, flavorful chicken skin skewers
- Look for establishments with English menus if you’re not comfortable with Japanese
c. Navigating the Area
- The alleys are very narrow, so be mindful of others
- Walk through all the alleys first to get a feel for the atmosphere
- Look for the green neon signs above the alleys to find the entrance
- Use the official Omoide Yokocho website map to locate specific establishments
d. How to Get There
- By JR Train: Take any JR line to Shinjuku Station. Exit through the West Exit, and Omoide Yokocho is just a 2-3 minute walk away. Look for the narrow alley filled with signs and eateries.
- By Tokyo Metro: You can also take the Marunouchi Line to Shinjuku Station and head towards the West Exit. Follow the signs for Omoide Yokocho.
- By Subway: Take the Oedo Line to Shinjuku-Nishiguchi Station. Use Exit D3, and from there, it’s about a 1-minute walk to Omoide Yokocho
Read More: 10 Must-Buy Food Souvenirs Most Tourists Overlook in Tokyo
13. Tokyo Skytree
a. What Makes It Special
- It’s the tallest structure in Japan at 634 meters (2,080 feet) high
- Offers unparalleled 360-degree views of Tokyo from its observation decks
- Combines modern architecture with traditional Japanese design elements
- Has become an iconic symbol of Tokyo’s skyline since opening in 2012
b. Observation Decks
- Tembo Deck (350 meters high):
- Three floors with panoramic views
- Glass floor sections for a thrilling look straight down
- Souvenir shop and café
- Digital telescopes for close-up views of landmarks
- Photo service spot for commemorative pictures
- Tembo Galleria (450 meters high):
- Spiral ramp that gradually ascends for changing perspectives
- Offers even more expansive views than Tembo Deck
- Unique sloping floor design adds to the experience
c. Tips for Your Visit
- Buy tickets in advance to avoid long queues
- Choose a combo ticket if you want to visit both decks
- Arrive about 30 minutes before your scheduled time
d. How to Get There
- By Tobu Railway: Take the Tobu Skytree Line to Tokyo Skytree Station. The station is directly connected to the Tokyo Skytree complex, so you’ll naturally flow into Tokyo Skytree.
- By Tokyo Metro: Take the Hanzomon Line to Oshiage (Skytree) Station. Use Exit B3, which leads directly to Tokyo Skytree.
- By Toei Subway: Take the Asakusa Line to Oshiage (Skytree) Station. Use Exit A2, then follow the signs to Tokyo Skytree.
14. Denboin Street
a. What Makes It Special
- A peaceful 200-meter shopping street extending west from Nakamise
- Home to beautiful century-old traditional shop buildings
- Wider and less crowded than Nakamise – perfect for a relaxed stroll
b. Shopping
- Family-owned shops selling traditional handmade items
- Great place to find beautiful folding fans and kanzashi hair pins
- Visit Yamatomi for authentic Japanese clothing – kimonos, yukatas, and traditional footwear
c. Cultural Experiences
- Perfect spot for photos of old Tokyo
- Try exploring in a rental kimono for the full traditional experience
d. How to Get There
- By Tokyo Metro: Take the Ginza Line to Asakusa Station. Use Exit 1, then walk about 2 minutes west along Nakamise Shopping Street. Turn left at the end to reach Denboin Street.
- By Toei Subway: Take the Asakusa Line to Asakusa Station. Use Exit A4, then walk about 7 minutes west along Nakamise Shopping Street. Turn left at the end to reach Denboin Street.
- By Tobu Railway: Take the Tobu Skytree Line to Asakusa Station. Use the Main Exit and walk about 5 minutes west along Nakamise Shopping Street. Turn left at the end to reach Denboin Street.
15. Shibuya Crossing
a. Experience the World’s Busiest Crossing
- World’s busiest crossing with up to 3,000 people at once
- All traffic stops in all directions, letting people cross from every angle
- Massive video screens and neon lights surround the intersection
- Famous spot featured in movies and TV shows
b. Best Viewpoints
- Visit the second-floor Starbucks for a prime view
- Shibuya Sky deck at Shibuya Scramble Square for an unobstructed aerial view
- Magnet by Shibuya 109 building’s rooftop observation deck
- Hoshino Coffee inside 109 MEN’S for a more relaxed viewing experience
c. Crossing the Intersection
- Wait for the pedestrian signal before stepping onto the crossing
- Walk briskly but don’t run – you’ll have enough time to cross
- Keep to the left side to avoid collisions with other pedestrians
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure
d. How to Get There
- By JR Train: The easiest way is to take the JR Yamanote Line and get off at Shibuya Station. From the Hachiko Exit (Exit #8), you’ll walk straight into the famous scramble crossing.
- By Tokyo Metro: Take the Ginza Line, Hanzomon Line, or Fukutoshin Line to Shibuya Station and follow the signs to the Hachiko Exit (Exit #8).
Read More: 10 New Things to Do in Tokyo
16. Mega Don Quijote
a. What Makes It Special
- Tokyo’s largest Don Quijote store, offering an unparalleled shopping experience
- Caters specifically to international tourists with a wide range of souvenirs and tax-free shopping
- Features a large supermarket section in the basement
- Spans eight floors, from basement to 7th floor, offering a vast array of products
b. Must-Buy Items
- KitKats in unique flavors like matcha and strawberry
- Character-themed cookies and sweets (e.g. Hachiko and Hello Kitty)
- Pocky sticks and other iconic Japanese snacks
- Character goods and plushies (Pokemon, Hello Kitty, etc.)
- Japanese cosmetics and skincare products
c. Shopping Tips
- Bring your passport for tax-free shopping at the 7th-floor counter
- Consider buying a reusable shopping bag, as plastic bags may be charged
- Check expiration dates on food items, especially if buying as souvenirs
d. How to Get There
- By JR Train: Take the Yamanote, Saikyo, or Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Shibuya Station. Use the Hachiko Exit, then walk about 5 minutes to reach MEGA Don Quijote.
- By Tokyo Metro: Take the Ginza, Hanzomon, or Fukutoshin Line to Shibuya Station. Use Exit A2, then walk about 7 minutes to reach MEGA Don Quijote.
Read More: 12 New Japan Snacks You Have to Try on Your Next Trip
17. Takeshita Street
a. What Makes It Special
- It’s the heart of Tokyo’s youth culture and fashion scene
- Packed with unique shops, cafes, and street food vendors
- Vibrant and energetic atmosphere with constant crowds
- Showcases the latest trends in Japanese street fashion
b. Shopping Highlights
- Check out vintage clothing stores for unique finds
- Explore shops selling kawaii (cute) accessories and trinkets
- Visit Daiso, a popular 100-yen shop, for budget-friendly souvenirs
- Stop by WEGO for trendy and affordable clothing options
c. Must-Try Street Food
- Indulge in rainbow cotton candy from Totti Candy Factory
- Sample Japanese-style crepes with various sweet and savory fillings from Marion Crepes
- Taste the crispy, towering “tornado potato” spiral from Long! Longer!! Longest!!!
d. How to Get There
- By JR Train: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station. Use the Takeshita Exit, which leads directly to the entrance of Takeshita Street.
- By Tokyo Metro: Take the Chiyoda Line or Fukutoshin Line to Meiji-jingumae Station. Use Exit 3 and walk about 2 minutes to reach Takeshita Street.