Get to know Tokyo

The bustling metropolis of Tokyo is a captivating mix of the weird and the wonderful, where vending machines dispense everything from umbrellas to hamburgers, and ancient Edo-era temples sit alongside futuristic skyscrapers and vibrant pop culture. Despite its dizzying pace and dense population, Tokyo is remarkably clean, efficient, and well-organized, with excellent transportation connections to the rest of Japan. This urban jungle is packed with surprises, and even a full day wouldn’t be enough to scratch the surface. To help you navigate your Tokyo exploration, we’ve put together some top tips for experiencing this fascinating and dynamic capital city.

Try world-class cuisine

From Michelin-starred Japanese restaurants to casual eateries and mouthwatering street food, Tokyo is a dream destination for food lovers. As you wander the city’s lively streets during your Tokyo exploration, you’ll encounter everything from authentic regional cuisine to top-tier international dishes. Tokyo has significantly shaped Japanese culinary traditions, even giving rise to its own local style, Edo-mae, meaning “in front of Edo,” a reference to when seafood was sourced directly from Edo Bay (now Tokyo Bay).

Be sure to try standout dishes like nigiri-zushi, tempura, soba noodles, monjayaki (a savory pancake with meat and vegetables), and chanko-nabe, the hearty stew traditionally eaten by sumo wrestlers. Casual diners will love the hidden gems found in department store basements or tucked away near busy train stations. For fine dining, head to the top floors of luxury hotels like the Shangri-La or Tokyo Station Hotel, or skyscrapers such as the New York Grill, where gourmet meals come with sweeping city views.

Kickstart your day at the legendary Tsukiji Fish Market, soon relocating to Toyosu. This bustling wholesale market moves an astonishing 2,000 tons of seafood daily and is the perfect spot to sample a fresh sushi breakfast while soaking in the energy of early-morning Tokyo. Tokyoites take their food seriously. At Michelin-starred RyuGin, diners are asked to avoid strong perfume so as not to interfere with the flavors of the meticulously crafted dishes. Local etiquette also matters, while eating in public is considered impolite, slurping your noodles is not only acceptable but encouraged, as it’s believed to enhance the experience of the flavors. For something more playful, Tokyo also offers a variety of quirky themed restaurants (including the famous Robot Restaurant) for a truly unforgettable dining adventure.

Read more: The best things to do in Japan

Embrace culture and history galore

For those interested in uncovering the rich history of Japan and its iconic capital, a Tokyo exploration wouldn’t be complete without delving into the city’s fascinating museums and serene temples. Tokyo, part of the legendary “Land of the Rising Sun”, offers immersive experiences that bring centuries of culture to life.

Start with the Edo-Tokyo Museum, housed in a strikingly modern building. Its permanent exhibit takes you through over 400 years of Tokyo’s evolution, beginning with the Edo Period (1603–1868), and features miniature townscapes, life-sized models, and detailed figurines that paint a vivid picture of the city’s transformation. For a deeper dive into Japan’s warrior past, visit the Samurai Museum in Shinjuku. It’s a family-friendly spot with English-speaking guides who walk you through the gripping legacy of the samurai. The museum features impressive displays, live-action reenactments, and even the chance to try on traditional armor, perfect for an interactive, educational outing.

Science lovers will enjoy the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, where hands-on exhibits explore topics like robotics, space travel, and genetics. One especially engaging display explains how the internet works, using ball bearings and springs in a surprisingly effective analogy.

Of course, no Tokyo exploration would be complete without visiting two of the city’s most iconic spiritual sites. In Asakusa, the Senso-ji Temple stands as Tokyo’s oldest temple, dating back to 645 AD. Built to honor the goddess Kannon, legend has it the temple was founded after her statue was pulled from the Sumida River by two fishermen. With its bold architecture and vibrant atmosphere, it remains one of Tokyo’s most visited landmarks. Equally serene is the Meiji Shrine, a peaceful oasis dedicated to Emperor Meiji (1852–1912). Nestled among lush forests, this Shinto shrine offers a welcome escape from the city’s fast pace and is an ideal place for a reflective stroll surrounded by traditional Japanese design.

Find your inner zen

Tokyo exploration isn’t just about neon lights and skyscrapers, it’s also about discovering the city’s peaceful, green side. Amidst the fast-paced energy of Japan’s capital, Tokyo’s tranquil parks and gardens offer a breath of fresh air and a chance to find your inner zen. One of the city’s most beloved green spaces is Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a 144-acre sanctuary that provides a striking contrast to the buzz of Shinjuku. The garden is divided into three distinct styles—an English landscape, a formal French garden, and a traditional Japanese garden. Don’t miss the charming teahouse on-site, where you can relax and enjoy the calm atmosphere. Visit in early April, and you’ll be perfectly positioned to witness Tokyo’s iconic cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Another must-visit stop on your Tokyo exploration is the Imperial Palace East Garden, located just a 10–15 minute walk from Tokyo Station. This sprawling 210,000-square-meter garden includes historical ruins, manicured landscapes, and beautiful seasonal flowers like roses, bamboo, and cherry trees. The on-site Museum of the Imperial Collection also features rotating exhibits of art and photography, adding a cultural touch to your outdoor experience. For families, Showa Kinen Park is a fantastic choice. Kids will love the rainbow pool and playground areas, while adults can stroll through vast green lawns, wooded paths, and vibrant seasonal flower gardens. These are just a few of the serene pockets of nature waiting to be uncovered during your Tokyo exploration, proof that even in one of the world’s busiest cities, you can still find space to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with nature.

Read more: How to go off the beaten track in Japan

Make it happen

Ready to explore Tokyo? Our local travel experts are here to craft your ideal, tailor-made journey, whether you’re seeking hidden gems off the beaten path or want to check off all the iconic, bucket list sights. Let us help you experience Tokyo your way. Get in touch today!