Visiting Tokyo is like stepping into a multi-layered series of alternate universes. After all, it’s where ultra-modern high-rises and technology-centric worlds collide with peaceful temples, parks, and more traditional neighborhoods that have kept their unique charm intact. And we haven’t even gotten to the food, art or fashion yet! Travel to Tokyo for the perfect blend of chaos and tradition.
Tokyo Japan Highlights
There are as many ways to enjoy Tokyo as there are visitors — this city of nearly 10 million people has something to offer for everyone.
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That said, if you’re planning a visit, there are some popular spots like Shibuya Crossing, Sensoji Temple, Meiji Jingu shrine and Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower.
And you shouldn’t miss one of those, if only for the spectacular perspective(s). If you stay in a high-rise hotel, you’ll likely get similar views — but if not, find a restaurant, cafe, or bar that’s located on the highest few floors of one of Tokyo’s many skyscrapers and check out the views from there.
While seeing the historic side of Tokyo and the Shinto and Buddhist shrines and temples is a must, it’s also the perfect city for an ultra-modern moment. Check out Team Labs Borderless or Team Labs Planets and immerse yourself in modern art installations for a few hours, or visit Joypolis for some virtual reality adventures.
Travel To Tokyo: Logistics
The Tokyo Metro will get you most places that you need to go, and it’s worth figuring out the method to the seeming madness that you find in some of the biggest stations like Tokyo Station and Shinjuku station.
As you’re planning your activities, keep in mind that it may take you a while to travel between various areas of the city, since Tokyo is huge and traffic is intense, especially during rush hour. The train might be your best option in many cases.
Scheduling your days so that you’re doing multiple things in the same area can help, e.g., visiting Meiju shrine and then exploring the Asakusa neighborhood’s little cafes, restaurants, and kitchenware shops. (Pick up some beautiful chopsticks or a Japanese knife if you’re an avid home chef. Japanese knives are some of the best in the world).
Note that although a good amount of signage is in English, Google Translate will be your friend, especially for restaurant menus. Keep the app handy!
Travel To Tokyo: What to Pack
Tokyo is pretty similar to the east coast of the U.S. in regard to weather, so what to pack depends on the season. Keep in mind that you’ll be walking a lot, so comfortable shoes are a must and sneakers are more than fine nearly everywhere.
Remember that in Japan, you’ll likely have to take off your shoes for some sites or temples, or even restaurants depending on where you go. So pack nice socks!
What to Eat in Tokyo
Pretty much every form of Japanese specialty can be found in Tokyo, with exceptional sushi, ramen, udon and more, seemingly around every corner. And the dessert options are unreal! Melon pan, mochi of all kinds, and the best soft serve ice cream you may ever have.
One thing to note is that while you’ll definitely see long queues for Instagram and TikTok-favorite spots, there’s a good chance there’s a similar option nearby that lacks the social media hype (and therefore the line). And really, it’s hard to go wrong dining-wise! If you need some direction, check out Tabelog for some guidance, it’s essentially Japan’s answer to Yelp.
Another option is the Depachika or basement and ground levels of department stores, which are culinary playgrounds filled with interesting and unique options. And of course, you can’t forget the combini or convenience store offerings, which are truly outstanding. Onigiri, sandos, and a wide variety of snacks are just the beginning.
Tokyo Travel Guide: Neighborhoods and Where to Stay
Each neighborhood has its own flair and flavor, but if you’re visiting as a tourist you’ll likely be exploring multiple areas. As far as where to stay, as long as you’re near one of the main metro stations that connects multiple lines, you’ll be just fine.
Be aware that hotel rooms in Japan’s cities tend to be on the small side compared to North America, so you may have less space in Tokyo than you’re used to — but you’ll be out exploring so much anyways that it probably won’t matter!
For a high-rise hotel with some artistic flair, check out the Park Hotel Tokyo — many of the rooms are “artist rooms” with murals painted by Japanese artists and each one is unique.
Shopping in Tokyo, Japan
Chances are if you’re reading this site, you’ll want to explore Tokyo’s legendary shopping. From Japanese beauty to souvenirs featuring what seems like every video game or anime character that exists to next-level vintage treasures, setting aside some time to shop is almost a necessity.
Tax-free shopping is a thing in Japan and will take 10% off the sticker price (if the tax free price isn’t marked already. So be sure to ask about it. The shop’s staff will need to scan your passport and if you’re buying something consumable (such as cosmetics or skincare), you’ll need to keep it in the sealed packaging until you leave the country. While it’s unlikely your bags will be checked at the airport, it is a possibility and your passport will be scanned on the way out.
Have you been to Japan? If so, what were your personal highlights? Are you considering a trip to Tokyo or elsewhere in Japan in 2025 or at some point in the future? Let us know in the comments or on our Growing Younger Facebook page!
– Jacqueline Zenn
You may also like to read more of Jacqueline’s travel adventures. See Gloriously Chaotic Bangkok Thailand: Travel Tips, Adventures and How To Navigate, Travel Tips and Adventures in Thailand: Chiang Mai and the Thai Highlands. and Travel Tips and Adventures in Cambodia: Siem Reap and Angkor Wat.
Photos: Jacqueline Zenn for Fountain Of 30
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