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🌸 Top 20 Things to Do in Japan (Tokyo) – Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

 Are you planning a trip to Japan and wondering what to do in Tokyo? Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, Tokyo is a vibrant city full of culture, food, fashion, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s a list of the top things to do in Tokyo, Japan’s most exciting city!

Don Quijote Higashiguchi Honten | 歌舞伎町ドン・キホーテ新宿東口 ...

🗼 1. Visit Tokyo Tower

Get panoramic views of the city from Tokyo Tower, Japan’s iconic red-and-white structure. It’s a must-visit for photography lovers and first-time tourists.

🛍️ 2. Shop at Shibuya 109

Explore Shibuya 109, a fashion-forward shopping mall for trendy clothes, Japanese cosmetics, and stylish accessories.



Harajuku Kawaii Monster Cafe | Roxanne Ready | Flickr
 

🐕 3. Take a Photo at Hachiko Statue

Meet Hachiko, the loyal dog whose statue stands near Shibuya Crossing. A famous Tokyo landmark with a heartwarming story.


🚦 4. Cross Shibuya Scramble

Walk through Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection. A once-in-a-lifetime Tokyo experience!

🍡 5. Explore Takeshita Street in Harajuku

Head to Harajuku and walk down Takeshita Street, a paradise of quirky snacks, fashion, and kawaii culture.

🏯 6. Visit Sensoji Temple in Asakusa

Explore Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Don’t miss the Thunder Gate and Nakamise shopping street.

🏞️ 7. Relax in Yoyogi Park

Unwind at Yoyogi Park, one of the largest parks in Tokyo. Perfect for picnics, walks, and cherry blossom viewing in spring.


🎢 8. Go to Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea

Experience the magic of Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea. Great for families, couples, and thrill-seekers.

🎮 9. Dive Into Akihabara’s Anime Culture

Love anime, manga, or gaming? Head to Akihabara, Tokyo’s mecca for otaku culture and electronics.

🛁 10. Try a Capsule Hotel

Stay in a unique capsule hotel for a budget-friendly and futuristic Japanese experience.

👘 11. Rent a Kimono for a Day

Dress in a traditional kimono and explore Tokyo’s historic sites like Asakusa or Meiji Shrine.

☕ 12. Visit a Maid Café

Head to a themed maid café in Akihabara for a fun and quirky dining experience.

🛒 13. Shop at Don Quijote (Donki)

Get everything from beauty products to snacks at Don Quijote, Japan’s most famous discount chain.

📷 14. Take Purikura (Photo Booth)

Snap photos at a Purikura machine with anime-style filters — a fun memory and Japanese pop culture must-do.

💇‍♀️ 15. Visit a Japanese Hair or Nail Salon

Get a stylish makeover at a high-quality Japanese salon known for excellent service and affordability.

🌉 16. Ride the Yurikamome Line to Odaiba

Take the Yurikamome monorail across Rainbow Bridge to Odaiba, a futuristic entertainment island.

🤖 17. See the Giant Gundam Statue

Stop at Diver City Odaiba to see the life-sized Gundam statue — and watch it move during light shows at night.

🛍️ 18. Visit Venus Fort Mall

Explore Venus Fort, a mall styled like a European city — with an indoor sky and fountain plaza.

🍵 19. Try Matcha Ice Cream

Savor authentic green tea ice cream, a Japanese favorite that’s rich, earthy, and refreshing.

Maid Cafe Advert, Akihabara | uploaded with Flickr Uploader … | Flickr

📍 20. Discover Korea Town (Shin-Okubo)

Enjoy Korean food, cosmetics, and K-pop shops at Shin-Okubo, Tokyo’s Korean district near Shinjuku.

🙋 Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Tokyo

From neon lights to ancient shrines, Tokyo is a city that offers traditional culture, modern innovation, and unforgettable experiences at every turn.

If you found this list of best things to do in Japan helpful, don’t forget to:
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Stay tuned for Part 2, where I’ll explore even more hidden gems and day trips from Tokyo.

– Puja Naik
Travel Blogger | All About Japan Web

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