The Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Travel

Tokyo Travel Guide

Tokyo can feel overwhelming at first, but don’t worry – I’ve done the hard work for you.

From your first steps at the airport to finding the perfect hotel and tasting unforgettable local dishes, this guide makes Tokyo simple.

I’ll show you the city’s best spots and help you plan amazing day trips for a Tokyo adventure you’ll never forget. 😊

Navigating Tokyo Airports

Tokyo has two main airports: Haneda and Narita. Haneda is closer to the city, just 14 km from downtown, while Narita is farther at 60 km away.

Let me show you how to get to central Tokyo from each airport using public transportation – it’s easier than you might think!

1. Narita Airport to Tokyo City Center

Narita Express

a. Narita Express (N’EX)

  • Your fastest train option that takes you directly to major stations in Tokyo
  • To Tokyo Station: 57 minutes, ¥3,070
  • To Shinjuku Station: 1 hour 25 minutes, ¥3,250
  • To Shibuya Station: 1 hour 20 minutes, ¥3,250

Read More:

b. Keisei Skyliner

Keisei Skyliner

  • Your best choice if you’re heading to northeast Tokyo
  • Takes you to Ueno Station in just 50 minutes
  • Costs ¥2,580 for a one-way ticket
  • Perfect if your hotel is near Ueno or Asakusa

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c. Airport Limousine Bus

Airport Limousine Bus

  • Takes you directly to major hotels and stations across Tokyo
  • Main stops include:
    • Shinjuku Area: Hilton Tokyo, Keio Plaza Hotel, Hyatt Regency Tokyo, Shinjuku Washington Hotel, Hotel Sunroute Plaza, Shinjuku Station
    • Tokyo Station Area: Tokyo Station Yaesu North Exit, Palace Hotel Tokyo
    • Ginza and Shiodome Areas: Courtyard by Marriott Tokyo Ginza Hotel, The Royal Park Iconic Tokyo Shiodome, Conrad Tokyo, Park Hotel Tokyo, Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier
  • To Shinjuku: 1 hour 25 minutes, ¥3,600
  • To Tokyo Station: 1 hour 25 minutes, ¥3,100
  • To Ginza: 1 hour 55 minutes, ¥3,600
  • Great if you have lots of luggage – staff will help you load and unload

2. Haneda Airport to Tokyo City Center

a. Tokyo Monorail

Tokyo Monorail

  • Takes you to Hamamatsucho Station in 21 minutes
  • Costs just ¥520 one-way
  • From Hamamatsucho, you can easily switch to other train lines
  • Offers great views of Tokyo Bay during your ride

b. Keikyu Line

Keikyu Line

  • Gets you to Shinagawa Station in just 17 minutes
  • Very affordable at ¥330 one-way
  • Shinagawa Station connects you to most major train lines
  • Perfect for reaching any part of Tokyo

c. Airport Limousine Bus

Limousine Bus at Haneda Airport

  • Drops you off right at major hotels and stations
  • Key stops include:
    • Shinjuku Area: Hilton Tokyo, Keio Plaza Hotel, Hyatt Regency Tokyo, Shinjuku Washington Hotel, Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku, Century Southern Tower, Shinjuku Station West Exit, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal, TOKYU KABUKICHO TOWER
    • Tokyo Station Area: Tokyo Station Yaesu North Exit
  • To Shinjuku: 45 minutes, ¥1,400
  • To Tokyo Station: 55 minutes, ¥1,200
  • Comfortable ride with space for your luggage

Read More: Haneda Airport to Shinjuku: The Fastest and Easiest Ways

Top 12 Attractions in Tokyo You Simply Can’t Miss

1. Shibuya

a. What Makes Shibuya Special

Shibuya

  • Heart of Tokyo’s youth culture and trends
  • Fashion hub with countless shops and boutiques
  • Vibrant nightlife with bars, clubs, and live music
  • Amazing food options for all budgets
  • Central location, easy to explore other popular Tokyo areas like Harajuku, Omotesando, and Shinjuku areas

b. Top Things to Do in Shibuya

Shibuya Sky

  • Shibuya Sky
    • Stunning 360° city views from rooftop deck
    • Most spectacular at sunset
    • One of Tokyo’s newest observation spots
  • Cross the famous Shibuya Scramble
    • World’s busiest pedestrian crossing
    • Thousands of people cross at once
    • Best views from Starbucks overlooking intersection
  • Shibuya Center-Gai
    • Main shopping street filled with fashion stores
    • Hub of restaurants and entertainment spots
    • Perfect place to experience Tokyo’s youth culture
  • Shibuya 109
    • Iconic fashion mall popular with young women
    • Multiple floors of trendy boutiques
    • Showcases latest Japanese fashion trends

Read More: 17 Top Things to Do in Shibuya with My Ideal Itinerary

2. Shinjuku

a. What Makes Shinjuku Special

Shinjuku

  • Vibrant atmosphere that never sleeps, offering a unique blend of modern and traditional Japan
  • Home to the world’s busiest train station, making it your perfect base to explore Tokyo
  • Each neighborhood has its own unique character – from the skyscraper district of Nishi-Shinjuku to the entertainment hub of Kabukicho
  • Shopping paradise with massive department stores and specialty shops like Don Quijote (Donki), catering to all budgets
  • Features Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a peaceful retreat with beautiful Japanese, English, and French landscapes

b. Top Things to Do in Shinjuku

Kabukicho

  • Kabukicho
    • Japan’s largest entertainment district
    • Home to numerous bars and clubs
    • Features the iconic Godzilla head statue atop Toho Cinema
  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    • Beautiful park perfect for picnics and strolls
    • Best during cherry blossom season and fall foliage
  • Omoide Yokocho
    • Historic narrow alley lined with small eateries
    • Famous for yakitori (grilled chicken skewers)
    • Authentic local atmosphere
  • Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    • Free observation decks
    • Panoramic city views
    • Chance to see Mount Fuji on clear days

Read More: 17 Best Things to Do in Shinjuku with My Perfect Itinerary

3. Ginza

a. What Makes Ginza Special

Ginza

  • Premier upscale shopping district featuring luxury brands, high-end department stores, and boutique shops
  • Unique weekend experience with car-free Chuo Dori, perfect for leisurely shopping and strolling
  • Home to the world’s most expensive real estate, showcasing stunning modern architecture
  • Culinary destination known for Michelin-starred restaurants and world-class sushi establishments

b. Top Things to Do in Ginza

Ginza Wako

  • Ginza Wako
    • Iconic department store with famous clock tower
    • Specializes in luxury jewelry, watches, and traditional crafts
    • Landmark building symbolizing Ginza’s elegance
  • Chuo Dori (Central Avenue)
    • Main shopping street that becomes pedestrian-only on weekends
    • Best time to visit: Saturday and Sunday afternoons
    • Perfect for photos with iconic Ginza architecture
  • GINZA SIX
    • Houses over 200 stores under one roof
    • Features a scenic rooftop garden with city views
  • Art Aquarium Ginza
    • Unique fusion of art and live goldfish displays
    • Features illuminated exhibits with musical accompaniment
    • Perfect for evening visits and photography

Read More: Top 17 Things to Do in Ginza

4. Tsukiji Outer Market

a. What Makes Tsukiji Outer Market Special

Tsukiji Outer Market

  • Renowned for fresh seafood and diverse street food offerings – a true paradise for food enthusiasts
  • Experience authentic Tokyo daily life through the bustling market environment and vendor interactions
  • Rich historical significance as part of the former world’s largest fish market
  • Diverse selection of specialty shops selling kitchen tools, ceramics, and unique food-related souvenirs
  • Lively atmosphere with friendly vendors offering various Japanese delicacies

b. Top Things to Do in Tsukiji Outer Market

Foods at Tsukiji Outer Market

  • Fresh Sushi Breakfast
    • Many eateries open early, making it ideal for breakfast visits
    • Try local favorites like Sushi Dai or Tsukiji Sushi Sei Honten for authentic experiences
  • Street Food Sampling
    • Must-try items include tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet)
    • Try grilled seafood skewers and fresh oysters
  • Tamagoyaki (Japanese Omelette)
    • Visit specialty shops like Shouro and Marutake
    • Served on sticks for convenient snacking while exploring
  • Japanese Knife Shopping
    • Visit stores like Aritsugu and Masamoto for professional-grade kitchen knives
    • Staff available to help you choose the right knife for your needs

5. Asakusa

a. What Makes Asakusa Special

Nakamise Shopping Street in Asakusa

  • Historic Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple dating back to the 7th century, featuring iconic Kaminarimon Gate and five-story pagoda
  • Traditional shitamachi (downtown) atmosphere, giving you a glimpse into old Tokyo through preserved streets and shops
  • Vibrant Nakamise Shopping Street where you can find traditional snacks, souvenirs, and festival stalls
  • Rich cultural experiences including kimono rentals, rickshaw rides, and traditional craft shopping

b. Top Things to Do in Asakusa

Sensoji Temple

  • Sensoji Temple
    • Start your visit by walking through the impressive Kaminarimon Gate with its eye-catching giant red lantern
    • Explore the temple grounds and admire the intricate architecture.
    • Don’t forget to try omikuji (fortune-telling papers) for a fun traditional experience
  • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • Shop for traditional Japanese souvenirs such as fans and kokeshi dolls.
    • Make sure to taste local treats like ningyo-yaki (sweet cakes shaped like dolls) and kibi dango (sweet rice dumplings)
    • Soak in the energetic atmosphere as you browse through the colorful stalls
  • Take a Rickshaw Tour
    • Hop on for a short ride around Asakusa’s main spots
    • Perfect for capturing memorable photos while learning interesting local history
  • Sumida Park
    • Take a break and relax by the riverside, where you’ll get great views of Tokyo Skytree
    • It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll
    • If you’re here during cherry blossom season, you’re in for a truly beautiful sight

Read More: 17 Wonderful Things to Do in Asakusa

6. Akihabara

a. What Makes Akihabara Special

Akihabara

  • Electronics wonderland with massive multi-story stores, small specialized shops, and endless gadget selections
  • Vibrant hub of otaku culture featuring anime, manga, gaming merchandise, and collectible stores
  • Entertainment paradise offering themed cafes, gaming arcades, and unique dining experiences
  • Pop culture center where you’ll find everything from classic gaming to the latest tech trends

b. Top Things to Do in Akihabara

Yodobashi Camera

  • Yodobashi Camera
    • Multi-story electronics store with endless gadgets and appliances
    • Find everything from smartphones to gaming equipment
    • Features tax-free shopping for tourists
  • Maid Café Experience
    • Unique themed dining where staff dress as maids
    • Enjoy special performances and interactive entertainment
    • Try cute decorated food and drinks
  • Mandarake Complex
    • Multi-story store specializing in anime and manga
    • Browse endless collections of figurines and collectibles
    • Perfect for finding rare items and memorabilia
  • Akihabara Radio Kaikan
    • Historic landmark building with 10 floors of shops
    • Great for electronic parts and anime figures
    • Visit small, specialized stores run by passionate collectors
  • Explore Chuo Dori
    • Walk down this main street packed with electronics shops and anime stores
    • Best visited on Sundays when it becomes pedestrian-only
    • Perfect for photo ops with colorful buildings and giant advertisements

7. Ueno

a. What Makes Ueno Special

Ueno

  • Cultural hub featuring Japan’s top museums and art galleries all in one area
  • Home to Ueno Park, one of Tokyo’s largest green spaces and cherry blossom spots
  • Authentic local atmosphere with affordable shopping and diverse dining options
  • Easy access as a major transport hub in Tokyo

b. Top Things to Do in Ueno

Ameyoko Market

  • Ameyoko Market
    • Bustling market street with over 400 shops
    • Great deals on snacks, clothes, and souvenirs
    • Local street food and fresh seafood
    • Lively atmosphere especially during evenings and weekends
  • Explore Ueno Park
    • Japan’s first public park, perfect for nature walks and seasonal views
    • Famous for 1,200 cherry trees blooming in spring
    • Home to multiple major museums, temples, and a serene pond
  • Visit World-Class Museums
    • Tokyo National Museum: Japan’s oldest museum showcasing Asian art
    • National Museum of Nature and Science: Interactive exhibits for all ages
    • National Museum of Western Art: European masterpieces in a Le Corbusier building
  • Ueno Zoo
    • Japan’s oldest zoo housing over 3,000 animals
    • Famous for its giant pandas and unique Japanese species
    • Features a historic five-story pagoda within its grounds
    • Perfect for families and animal lovers
  • Yanaka Ginza
    • Short distance from Ueno
    • Offers nostalgic look at Tokyo’s past
    • Features traditional shops
    • Rich in Showa-era charm

8. Shibamata

a. What Makes Shibamata Special

Shibamata

  • Step back in time in this charming neighborhood that feels like old Tokyo
  • Home to Tora-san, Japan’s beloved film character – you’ll spot his statue right outside the station
  • Walk the lively Taishakuten Sando, a 200-meter shopping street packed with local treats
  • Try authentic Japanese snacks like green rice dumplings and freshly grilled rice crackers
  • Perfect for experiencing traditional Japanese culture without the big city rush

b. Top Things to Do in Shibamata

Taishakuten Sando Street

  • Taishakuten Sando Street
    • Your gateway to local life with plenty of food shops and craft stores
    • Great spot to try traditional snacks while you walk
    • Takes you straight to the famous temple
    • Perfect for window shopping and people watching
  • Must-Try Foods at Taishakuten Sando Street
  • Shibamata Taishakuten Temple
    • Marvel at the incredible wooden carvings – they’re a true masterpiece
    • Take a peaceful walk through the temple gardens
    • Check out the 400-year-old pine tree shaped like a dragon
    • Tip: Don’t miss the detailed carvings inside the temple
  • Yamamoto-tei
    • Experience a unique mix of Japanese and Western architecture
    • Sit down for traditional matcha tea with Japanese sweets
    • Enjoy the peaceful garden views while you relax
    • Great spot for photos and a break from walking

Read More: 10 Hidden Gems Most Tourists Don’t Know in Tokyo

9. Odaiba

a. What Makes Odaiba Special

Odaiba

  • Modern entertainment district built on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay
  • Perfect blend of futuristic architecture and waterfront relaxation spots
  • Home to unique landmarks including a life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue and mini Statue of Liberty
  • Offers some of Tokyo’s best views through Rainbow Bridge connections and waterfront locations
  • Family-friendly destination combining shopping, entertainment, and outdoor activities

b. Top Things to Do in Odaiba

Rainbow Bridge

  • Rainbow Bridge
    • Enjoy spectacular views of Tokyo Bay and city skyline
    • Best visited at sunset or after dark for light displays
  • Fuji TV Building
    • Explore the distinctive building with its giant spherical observation deck
    • Get panoramic views of Tokyo Bay from the Hachitama sphere
    • Visit the observation deck for potential Mount Fuji views on clear days
  • Shopping Experience
    • DiverCity Tokyo Plaza: Take photos with the life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue, shop at numerous fashion outlets
    • Aqua City: Browse stores while enjoying harbor views, great spot for sunset dining
    • DECKS Tokyo Beach: Explore retro-themed floors and enjoy seaside restaurants
  • teamLab Borderless
    • Wander through immersive digital art installations
    • Experience interactive exhibits that respond to your movements
    • Perfect for unique photos and memorable experiences
    • Book tickets in advance to avoid long queues
  • Odaiba Marine Park
    • Relax on the artificial beach with views of Tokyo Bay
    • Take photos with the miniature Statue of Liberty
    • Enjoy waterfront walking paths and green spaces
    • Popular spot for couples and families, especially at sunset

Read More: 17 Fun Things to Do in Odaiba with My Complete Itinerary

10. DisneySea

a. What Makes DisneySea Special

DisneySea

  • World’s only nautical-themed Disney park with eight uniquely designed ports
  • Home to Mount Prometheus, a massive volcano that’s the park’s iconic centerpiece
  • Features exclusive attractions you won’t find at other Disney parks worldwide:
    • Journey to the Center of the Earth
    • 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
  • Fortress Explorations
  • Designed with more adult appeal while still being family-friendly
  • Known for its incredible attention to architectural details and immersive theming
  • Home to Fantasy Springs (opened June 2024), featuring Frozen, Tangled, and Peter Pan areas

b. Top Things to Do in DisneySea

Mount Prometheus

  • Journey to the Center of the Earth
    • Signature attraction inside Mount Prometheus
    • Thrilling dark ride through crystal caverns and prehistoric scenes
    • Culminates in an exciting escape from an erupting volcano
  • Soaring: Fantastic Flight
    • Simulated hang-gliding adventure over famous global landmarks
    • Enhanced with scents and effects
  • Fantasy Springs
    • Newest area featuring attractions based on Frozen, Tangled, and Peter Pan
    • Offers immersive experiences
  • Toy Story Mania!
    • Interactive 4D ride
    • Compete in carnival-style games

Read More:

11. Warner Bros Studios

a. What Makes Warner Bros Studios Tokyo Special

Ministry of Magic

  • World’s largest indoor Harry Potter attraction, bringing the magic to life
  • Exclusive Tokyo-only features, including a full-size Ministry of Magic
  • Interactive experiences using cutting-edge technology for immersive magic
  • Houses Japan’s biggest Harry Potter shop with exclusive merchandise
  • Perfect blend of filmmaking craft and magical experiences

b. Top Things to Do at Warner Bros Studios Tokyo

Warner Bros Studios Tokyo

  • Great Hall & Iconic Sets
    • Walk through meticulously crafted film sets including the Great Hall
    • Experience Platform 9¾ and the magical Diagon Alley
    • See original props and costumes from the films
    • Perfect photo opportunities at every turn
  • Interactive Magic
    • Try your hand at wand movements and spells
    • Become a moving portrait using special effects
    • Practice your potion-making skills
    • Experience green screen magic to “fly” on a broomstick
  • Magical Dining & Shopping
    • Taste authentic Butterbeer at themed cafés
    • Browse Japan’s largest Harry Potter shop
    • Enjoy wizard-themed treats and snacks

Read More: 10 Fun Places I Regret Not Visiting with My Family in Tokyo

12. teamlab Borderless Azabudai Hills

a. What Makes teamLab Borderless Azabudai Hills Special

teamLab Borderless's Borderless World

  • World’s largest permanent digital art museum
  • Cutting-edge digital art museum where artworks respond to your presence and movement
  • Family-friendly interactive spaces featuring unique attractions like Sketch Ocean
  • Revolutionary technology creating immersive environments that redefine traditional art

b. Top Things to Do in teamLab Borderless Azabudai Hills

Bubble Universe

  • Bubble Universe
    • New installation featuring mesmerizing illuminated spheres
    • Perfect spot for capturing stunning photos
    • Immerse yourself in moving light displays
  • Borderless World
    • Core section where digital artworks flow freely between spaces
    • Experience ever-changing landscapes that respond to your movements
    • Watch as different installations interact and blend with each other
  • Sketch Ocean
    • Draw your own fish and watch it come alive digitally
    • Popular interactive experience from the original location
    • Great for families and children to engage with art
  • Infinite Light Sculpture
    • Spectacular installation combining mirrors and LED lights
    • Creates breathtaking endless sparkle effects
    • Must-visit spot for memorable photos and experiences

3 Perfect Day Trips from Tokyo

1. Kamakura

a. Why Visit Kamakura

Kamakura

  • Historical Significance: Kamakura was Japan’s political center during the 12th century, offering a glimpse into the country’s feudal past.
  • Cultural Landmarks: The city is home to numerous temples and shrines, including the iconic Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple.
  • Natural Beauty: Surrounded by hills and the sea, Kamakura provides scenic landscapes and pleasant hiking trails.
  • Proximity to Tokyo: Just an hour away by train, it’s an easy and convenient escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

b. Must-Visit Sacred Sites

Great Buddha

  • Great Buddha (Daibutsu)
    • This massive 11.4-meter bronze Buddha sits peacefully in the open air
    • You can actually go inside the hollow statue (worth doing to understand its amazing construction)
  • Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • This is Kamakura’s most important shrine, dating back to 1063
    • Look for the stunning red bridges and torii gates leading up to the main building
    • Take part in local traditions by writing your wish on an ema (wooden prayer plaque)
  • Hasedera Temple
    • Don’t miss the towering 9-meter wooden Kannon statue
    • Head to the observation deck for amazing views over Kamakura
    • If you’re visiting in June, you’ll catch the beautiful hydrangea gardens in full bloom

c. Food and Fun Spots

Sea Candle Lighthouse

  • Enoshima Island
    • It’s a quick trip from central Kamakura
    • You’ll get fantastic views of Mount Fuji on clear days
    • Make sure to visit the Sea Candle lighthouse viewpoint
    • Try the local specialty, shirasu (tiny whitebait fish) – it’s super fresh here
  • Komachi-dori Street
    • This lively shopping street is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs
    • Must-try snacks:
      • The Grilled Great Buddha treats (go for the custard or bacon cheese filling)
      • Fresh fish cakes at Maruten
      • Matcha sweets at Kamakura Chacha

Read More: 10 Best Day Trips from Tokyo

2. Yokohama

a. Why Visit Yokohama

Yokohama

  • Modern Waterfront Charm: Yokohama’s Minato Mirai 21 district combines stunning architecture, shopping, and a scenic harborfront.
  • Japan’s Largest Chinatown: Explore vibrant streets filled with over 600 restaurants and shops offering authentic Chinese dishes.
  • Unique Attractions: Home to the Cup Noodles Museum and the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum, Yokohama blends fun and food like no other.
  • Close to Tokyo: Only 30 minutes by train, it’s a perfect day trip for first-time visitors looking for variety.

b. Fun and Entertainment

Cosmo World

  • Cosmo World
    • You can’t miss the massive Cosmo Clock 21 – it’s one of the world’s largest Ferris wheels
    • Get amazing night views of the city from the wheel (perfect for photos!)
    • If you’re up for thrills, hop on the Spinning Coaster Vanish
    • Traveling with kids? Head to the Kids Carnival Zone for family-friendly rides
  • Cup Noodles Museum
    • Create your own unique cup noodles flavor (great souvenir to take home!)
    • Watch the fun and interactive history of instant noodles at the Momofuku Ando Theater
    • Explore the massive Instant Noodles History Cube to see noodles from around the world

c. Shopping and Dining Spots

Yokohama Chinatown

  • Yokohama Chinatown
    • This is Japan’s largest Chinatown
    • Main Street is packed with amazing street food stalls
    • Don’t skip the colorful Masobyo Temple
    • Try your luck with traditional fortune papers at Kantei-byo Temple
    • Pro tip: Come hungry! The steamed buns here are legendary
  • Red Brick Warehouse
    • These beautifully restored buildings are perfect for unique shopping
    • You’ll find lots of local designer goods and crafts
    • Great spot for harbor-view dining
    • Check their event calendar – they host fun seasonal festivals like Christmas markets

3. Fujikawaguchiko

a. Why Visit Fujikawaguchiko

Oishi Park at Fujikawaguchiko

  • Stunning Views of Mount Fuji: Fujikawaguchiko offers some of the most picturesque views of Mount Fuji, especially from Lake Kawaguchi.
  • Seasonal Beauty: Enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant foliage in autumn, and snow-capped peaks in winter.
  • Relaxing Atmosphere: Escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo for a day of tranquility.
  • Proximity to Tokyo: It’s conveniently located about 2 hours from Tokyo, making it ideal for a day trip.

b. Top Attractions

Chureito Pagoda

  • Chureito Pagoda: A five-story pagoda offering iconic views of Mount Fuji, especially during cherry blossom season.
  • Lake Kawaguchi: Enjoy boat rides or simply relax by the shore with Mount Fuji as a backdrop.
  • Oishi Park: Known for its beautiful flower displays and panoramic views of Mount Fuji.
  • Kachi Kachi Ropeway: A cable car ride that provides stunning views of the area.

Read More: Tokyo to Mount Fuji: A Complete Day Trip Guide for You

5 Must-Try Foods in Tokyo

1. Sushi

Sushi

Tokyo is renowned for its fresh and artfully prepared sushi. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

  • Sushi consists of vinegared rice topped with raw fish or seafood
  • Nigiri (hand-pressed sushi) and maki (rolled sushi) are common types
  • Many sushi restaurants offer omakase (chef’s choice) menus
  • It’s typically eaten with soy sauce and wasabi
  • Use chopsticks or your hands to eat sushi

Popular sushi restaurants in Tokyo:

  • Sushi no Midori
  • Ganso Zushi
  • Uobei
  • Uogashi Nihonichi
  • Sushi Dai
  • Mawashizushi Katsu Seibu Shibuya

2. Ramen

Ramen

Ramen is a comforting noodle soup dish that’s perfect for any time of day. Here’s what you should know:

  • Ramen consists of Chinese-style wheat noodles in a meat or chicken-based broth
  • Common flavors include shoyu (soy sauce), miso, shio (salt), and tonkotsu (pork bone)
  • Toppings often include chashu (braised pork), menma (bamboo shoots), and nori (seaweed)
  • Many ramen shops have vending machine ordering systems

Popular ramen restaurants in Tokyo:

  • Ichiran
  • Ginza Kagari Honten
  • Ramen Jiro
  • Oreryushio Ramen
  • Afuri tokyo
  • Ramen Nagi
  • Ramen Tatsunoya
  • Hakata Tenjin Ramen

3. Yakiniku

Yakiniku

Yakiniku is Japanese-style barbecue where you grill your own meat at the table. Here’s what to expect:

  • You’ll be served raw meat (usually beef) to cook on a grill built into your table
  • Various cuts of meat are available, from affordable to premium wagyu
  • Dipping sauces and side dishes like kimchi and salad are typically provided

Popular yakiniku restaurants in Tokyo:

  • Hinomaru
  • Rokkasen
  • Oreno Yakiniku Ginza
  • Yakiniku Jambo
  • Steak Lodge

4. Tonkatsu and Gyukatsu

Gyukatsu

Tonkatsu is a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, while gyukatsu is its beef counterpart. Both offer a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Tonkatsu is made with pork, while gyukatsu uses beef
  • Both are typically served with shredded cabbage, rice, and miso soup
  • For tonkatsu, two main cuts are used: hire (tenderloin) and rosu (loin)
  • Gyukatsu is often served medium-rare to maintain the beef’s tenderness

Popular tonkatsu and gyukatsu restaurants in Tokyo:

  • Maisen (tonkatsu)
  • Gyukatsu Motomura (gyukatsu)
  • Gyukatsu Ichi Ni San (gyukatsu)
  • Butagumi (tonkatsu)

5. Tendon (Tempura Rice Bowl)

Tendon

  • Tendon is a popular Japanese dish that combines two beloved elements: tempura and rice. Here’s what you should know about this delicious meal:
  • Tendon is short for “tempura donburi”, meaning tempura served over a bowl of rice
  • Common ingredients include shrimp, fish, eggplant, and sweet potato
  • A sweet and savory sauce called “tentsuyu” is drizzled over the tempura
  • It’s a filling, one-bowl meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner

Popular tendon restaurants in Tokyo:

  • Tempura Tendon Tenya
  • Kaneko Hannosuke
  • Tsunahachi Rin
  • Tempura Shinjuku Tsunahachi Souhonten
  • Tempura Kurokawa
  • Tempura Daikokuya

Read More:

5 Food Souvenirs in Tokyo You’ll Want to Take Home

1. Tokyo Banana

Tokyo Banana
Photo Credit: 東京ばな奈ワールド
  • A banana-shaped soft sponge cake filled with banana custard cream
  • Made with real banana puree in the original flavor
  • Each piece individually wrapped – perfect for gifting
  • Must-try flavors: Original, Honey (Haneda Airport exclusive), Chocolate

Where to Buy
Tokyo Banana Stores

2. Press Butter Sand

Press Butter Sand
Photo Credit: PRESS BUTTER SAND
  • Premium butter shortbread cookies with butter cream and caramel filling
  • Made with high-quality Hokkaido butter
  • Features a melt-in-your-mouth texture you’ll love
  • Available flavors: Original, Chocolate, Hazelnut Chocolate
  • Comes in elegant packaging – great for gifting

Where to Buy
Press Butter Sand Stores

3. Tokyo Tulip Rose

Tokyo Tulip Rose
Photo Credit: TOKYOチューリップローズ
  • Features “Cat Tongue Biscuits” with whipped chocolate cream center
  • Unique double-crunch texture from two crispy layers
  • Three delicious options:
  • Mixed Berry: Sweet strawberry and tart raspberry combo
  • Nutty Caramel: Rich caramel with crunchy nuts
  • Passion Fruit Mango: Tropical fruit blend

Where to Buy
Tokyo Tulip Rose Stores

4. Pista & Tokyo

Pista & Tokyo
Photo Credit: PISTA & TOKYO
  • Heaven for pistachio lovers with three varieties:
  • Pistage: Crumbly cookie filled with pistachio cream
  • Pistachio Sando: Pistachio chocolate between pistachio cookies
  • Pistachio Chocolate: White chocolate blended with pistachio paste
  • Perfect if you’re crazy about nuts and want something unique

Where to Buy
Pista & Tokyo Stores

5. Tokyo Campanella

Tokyo Campanella
Photo Credit: 東京カンパネラ
  • Light, crispy biscuits made with premium flour
  • Rich butter base with chocolate topping
  • Available in different chocolate varieties: dark, white, and matcha
  • Known for its perfect texture – crispy yet melts in your mouth
  • Great choice if you love buttery, chocolate-topped treats

Where to Buy
Tokyo Campanella Stores

Read More:

Where to Stay in Tokyo

a. Why Stay Here

Shinjuku

  • Central and convenient – you’re connected to everywhere
  • All major train lines meet here (JR, Metro, subway)
  • Easy airport access from both Haneda and Narita

b. What’s Around

  • Shopping from budget to luxury – everything at your doorstep
  • Endless food options, from cheap eats to fancy dining
  • Lots of convenience stores and supermarkets
  • Amazing nightlife in Kabukicho (entertainment district)

c. Perfect For Day Trips

  • Direct trains/buses to Mt. Fuji
  • Quick access to Hakone
  • Easy ride to Yokohama

d. Area Tips

  • East side: busier, more nightlife and shopping
  • West side: quieter, more business-focused
  • Look for hotels near Shinjuku Station for maximum convenience

e. Recommended Hotels

1. Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku (Booking.com | Agoda) – West Side

Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku
Photo Credit: Agoda
  • Super close – just 3 minutes on foot from JR Shinjuku Station’s South Exit
  • Great access to trains and subways
  • Airport buses to Haneda and Narita stop at the hotel
  • 3-minute walk to Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal
  • Laundry facilities available

2. APA Hotel Shinjuku Kabukicho Chuo (Booking.com | Agoda) – East Side

APA Hotel Shinjuku Kabukicho Chuo
Photo Credit: Agoda
  • Right in Kabukicho, Tokyo’s lively entertainment area
  • Quick 6-minute walk from Shinjuku Station’s East Exit
  • Good value for money in Shinjuku
  • Has laundry facilities

Read More: Only 3 Best Places to Stay in Tokyo

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Photo Credit:
Photos by PIXTA

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