Ultimate Tokyo Travel Guide: Tips and Highlights

Tokyo is a city of surprises — ancient temples are nestled among modern skyscrapers, and you’re just as likely to see someone wearing a cosplay costume as you are a person in a traditional kimono. Moreover, even though Tokyo is the most populated city in the world, the streets can be almost eerily silent. You’ll find every modern convenience (and then some), but because Japan was closed off to the rest of the world for many years, technology evolved in a way that reflects the Japanese psyche. Consequently, English is not widely spoken, and the far-reaching effect of globalization is still minimal. This unique atmosphere is a refreshing change from other destinations that have lost their individuality in catering to tourists.

These intriguing contradictions make Tokyo a city that leaves you curious, fascinated, and wanting more. In a single day, you can visit a 7th-century temple, order ramen from a vending machine, and watch a sumo match. Hence, there is no shortage of things to do, see, and eat in Tokyo. While its citizens tend to be respectful and accommodating, they too, like to keep you on your toes. Swing by a maid cafe or a Babymetal concert to truly understand the vibrant culture.

Time Zone

Japan Standard Time (GMT+9)

Best Time to Go

The ideal time to visit Tokyo is in the spring, when cherry blossoms bloom (typically March to April) and in the autumn, when the weather cools and fall colors become vibrant (between September and November). That being said, the weather in Tokyo is fairly temperate—even in winter—although it can be hot and humid from late June to the end of August.

Things to Know

Currency: Yen
(Check the current exchange rate)

Language: Japanese

I don’t speak Japanese: Watashi wa nihongo o hanasemasen

I’m lost: Michinimayoimashita

I would like…: O onegaishimasu…

Calling Code: +81

Capital City: Tokyo

How to Get Around

Trains: It’s not shocking that trains are the preferred method of transportation around Tokyo. The city is so large that the train system is divided into two companies: the Tokyo Metro and the Toei Subway. Between the two, there’s nowhere in Tokyo you can’t access. However, due to Tokyo’s sheer size (and excellent train coverage), the metro and subway map can be confusing—make sure to download the Tokyo Subway Navigation for Tourists app before you set out.

Buses: Because the train system is so easy to use and comprehensive, most people skip the bus. Nonetheless, it exists. The Toei Bus runs throughout Tokyo and to neighboring suburbs.

Taxis: There are several taxi companies in Tokyo—all sporting various colors. Additionally, you can hop in an Uber.Car service: Many private car services operate in Tokyo—including Tokyo Car Service and Blacklane.

Best Hotels

Hoshino Resorts OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka

2 Chome-26-1 Kitaotsuka, Toshima City, Tokyo 170-0004 Japan
Phone: +81 570-073-022

For an upscale yet casual hotel with easy access to the metro, OMO5 Tokyo Otsuka under the Hoshino Resorts umbrella is a top choice. The property boasts ultra-modern rooms, a welcoming lounge, and a team of OMO Rangers—locals ready to take you on a tour of the neighborhood. The area, which straddles Ikebukuro and Sugamo, has a retro feel with streetcars and narrow streets lined with bakeries and ramen spots.

Aman Tokyo

Address: The Otemachi Tower, 1 Chome-5-6 Ōtemachi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0004 Japan
Phone: +81 3-5224-3333

One of Tokyo’s finest five-star hotels, Aman Tokyo offers a stellar vantage point over the city (and even Mount Fuji on clear days) due to its location at the top of the Otemachi Tower. The hotel seamlessly blends an urban, modern feel with traditional Japanese design—washi paper doors, ryokan-style rooms, and ikebana displays (Japanese flower arrangements). This harmonious blend flows into Aman Tokyo’s guest rooms, suites, and the expansive Aman Spa.

The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo

Address: 9 Chome-7-1 Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo 107-6245, Japan
Phone: +81 3-3423-8000

The Ritz-Carlton brand is synonymous with excellence, and their luxury hotel in Tokyo is no exception. The downtown hotel is situated high in the Midtown Tower, one of the city’s tallest buildings. With floor-to-ceiling windows, The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo takes full advantage of its city views while offering seven on-site restaurants. The rooms and suites—ranging from 52 to 3,300 square feet—exude a clean, elevated elegance.

Onyado Nono Asakusa Natural Hot Spring

Address: 2 Chome-7-20 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Phone: +81 3-5830-0510

At first glance, Onyado Nono Asakusa Natural Hot Spring appears to be a low-key hotel with clean, straightforward rooms. However, upon closer inspection, you’ll discover that it offers easy access to the Asakusa Station and the Sensō-ji temple—a top Tokyo attraction—with bathing facilities that rival even the most high-end Tokyo hotels. The beautiful traditional Japanese bathing area features both indoor and outdoor baths along with various saunas.

Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku

Address: 5 Chome-3-18 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
Phone: +81 3-5361-8355

Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku is conveniently located mere minutes from the bustling downtown neighborhood of Shinjuku, yet it maintains a sense of calm and tranquility. The hotel’s standout feature is its traditional ryokan feel (Japanese inn), bathing facilities, and its open-air bathhouse fed by natural hot spring water. The modern, cozy rooms are complemented by an on-site restaurant that uses traditional techniques and local, seasonal ingredients to impress guests.

Wired Hotel Asakusa

Address: 2 Chome-16-2 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Phone: +81 3-5830-6533

For a truly trendy Tokyo escape, head to this three-star hotel near Asakusa Station and the Tokyo Skytree. Wired Hotel offers a range of accommodations from budget rooms to high-end suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies. When it’s time to relax, guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant or explore the numerous neighboring dining options.

Best Restaurants

Kikanbo

Address: 2 Chome-10-9 Kajicho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0044, Japan
Phone: +81 3-6206-0239

Chances are you arrived in Tokyo with ramen cravings. While ample ramen spots abound, Kikanbo stands out with its large bowls of deliciousness made from a rich broth, Shinshu Miso, perfectly chewy noodles, and carefully selected spices (fair warning: spicy orders come with an extra kick). Order at the vending machine outside, hand your ticket to the chef, and wait for your steaming bowl. Reservations are unnecessary, and seating is available indoors.

Udon Shin

Address: 2-20-16 Yoyogi, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-0053, Japan
Phone: +81 03-6276-7816

You might encounter a line at the low-key Udon Shin, but the thick hand-rolled udon noodles are worth the wait. You can order your udon in various styles—hot broth, dipping broth, or cold—all guaranteed to satisfy. No reservations are required, so arrive early to avoid hunger pangs.

Sushi Kanesaka

Address: 8-10-3 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0061, Japan
Phone: +81 3-5568-4411

If you’re in search of a Michelin-starred sushi experience, head to Sushi Kanesaka in Ginza, celebrated for its exceptional omakase (which means “chef’s choice”). Each sushi roll adheres to strict traditional standards, balancing rice, the topping, and wasabi flawlessly. Reservations are advisable for indoor seating.

Tamawarai

Address: 5 Chome-23-3 Jingumae, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan
Phone: +81 3-5485-0025

It would be a shame to visit Tokyo without indulging in one of the country’s most cherished dishes. While soba noodles are generally delightful, those served at Tamawarai are exceptional—the owner and chef mills the buckwheat himself, enhancing the flavor in every soba dish. Stop by (no reservation needed) and enjoy the calming simplicity of the indoor dining space.

Onigiri Bongo

Address: 2 Chome–26–3 Kitaotsuka, Toshima City, Tokyo 170-0004 Japan
Phone: +81 3-3910-5617

Located in the food-rich neighborhood of Otsuka, Onigiri Bongo elevates a Japanese staple—onigiri (stuffed rice balls). Feel free to drop in, sit at the counter (no reservation needed), and select your fillings from the chef, all while enjoying a warm cup of green tea.

Things to Do

Sumo Tournament at Ryōgoku Kokugikan

Address: 1 Chome-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
Phone: +81 3-3623-5111

Sumo is as integral to Japan as sushi, and if you time your visit correctly, you can witness one of the annual official sumo tournaments held at Ryōgoku Kokugikan, commonly known as Ryōgoku Sumo Hall. Situated in the Yokoami neighborhood of Sumida, this indoor arena accommodates thousands of fans eager to watch the 15-day tournament.

Sensō-ji

Address: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Phone: +81 3-3842-0181

Experience Tokyo’s oldest temple without venturing far. Centrally located in the Asakusa neighborhood, Sensō-ji is an ancient Buddhist temple rich in vibrant history. Enjoy a leisurely stroll leading to the temple, lined with food and trinket stands, before arriving at the main attraction. Observe the local customs for respectful behavior as you approach and enter the temple.

Tsukiji Market

Address: 4 Chome-16-2 Tsukiji, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
Phone: +81 3-3541-9444

Although Tsukiji—the world’s largest fish market—saw changes in late 2018, the original location remains vibrant. Here, you can explore endless street vendors serving remarkably fresh sushi and delicacies like squid-ink sticky buns. If you’re keen on witnessing an early fish auction, be sure to visit the neighboring Toyosu Market, which is also worth seeing.

Shibuya Crossing

Address: 1 Chome-2-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan
Phone: NA

Many cities cannot claim a crosswalk as a tourist attraction, yet anyone who’s experienced the wild scramble at Shibuya Crossing understands its appeal. Experience the mix of business-as-usual commuters and selfie-taking tourists as you navigate one of Tokyo’s busiest intersections. For a different perspective, visit the Shibuya Scramble Square tower for an aerial view of the chaos.

BathHaus

Address: 1 Chome–50–8 Nishihara, Shibuya City, Tokyo 151-0066 Japan
Phone: +81 80-6694-6529

Not long ago, communal bath houses were a norm—even in Tokyo. This sentō (communal bath house) serves as a casual gathering space for locals and tourists to bathe and unwind. In addition to a traditional sentō experience, you will find yoga classes, gourmet coffee, and craft beer at this hidden gem.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Address: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0014, Japan
Phone: +81 3-3350-0151

Japan is renowned for their elegant yet simple gardens, but none are more stunning than Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Alongside native, traditional gardens, you’ll find landscapes inspired by French and English designs and beautiful water features. If possible, plan your visit during cherry blossom season for a truly breathtaking experience.

Best Shopping

Isetan

Address: 3 Chome-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
Phone: +81 3-3352-1111

This high-fashion department store boasts a history dating back to 1886 and is located in the heart of Shinjuku. In addition to featuring top brands—both Japanese and international—there’s an expansive homeware selection and a food hall filled with almost-too-pretty-to-eat bento boxes.

Haight & Ashbury

Address: 2 Chome–37–2 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0031, Japan
Phone: +81 3-5453-4690

The neighborhood of Shimokitazawa might technically be within Tokyo city limits, but it feels like another world. Trendsetters cruise the streets while young shoppers explore quaint shops and trendy thrift stores. Within this scene, you will find Haight & Ashbury, a high-end vintage shop filled with unique clothing (both from Japan and abroad) with a chic quality.

Tokyo Solamachi

Address: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan
Phone: +81 3-5302-3480

If visiting the Tokyo Skytree is on your itinerary, don’t miss Tokyo Solamachi, a vast shopping complex located at the base of the Skytree. It houses over 300 shops and restaurants, ranging from souvenir shops to high-end clothing boutiques.

R for D

Address: 1-4-5, Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 153-0041, Japan
Phone: +81 3-6407-9320

This trendy boutique is the go-to place for clothing designed by Japanese designers, making it hard to leave without picking something up—everything from graphic tees to silk dresses and boundary-pushing fashion with a distinct Japanese flair.

Ginza 6

Address: 6 Chome-10-1 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
Phone: +81 3-6891-3390

In the central Ginza district of Tokyo, you will find this luxury shopping complex. The concept behind Ginza 6 is “world class,” ensuring that almost everything has an upscale twist—from restaurants to books and art.

Neighborhoods to Know

Harajuku: It doesn’t get much more hip than Harajuku, a neighborhood known for youth fashion, unique vintage and cosplay shops, and colorful street art. When you’ve had your fill of people-watching on Takeshita Street, make sure to head to Omotesando Avenue for a dose of more traditional (and high-end) boutiques.

Asakusa: Tokyo may be a bright, modern city, yet certain neighborhoods retain a sense of old-world charm. Asakusa, home to Sensō-ji temple and Nakamise Street (lined with traditional street food and craft shops), still conveys a feel of ancient Tokyo. In addition to drawing tourists, the area hosts events and festivals alongside the river and has a bustling dining scene.

Shimokitazawa: While it may be a bit of a trek, Shimokitazawa is worth the journey. The neighborhood is filled with stylish stores offering everything from vintage clothing to records. When you’ve shopped enough (and enjoyed people-watching), you can relax in one of the many cafes and restaurants.

Shinjuku Golden Gai: The neighborhood of Shinjuku has just about everything, but one corner of the area stands out—Golden Gai is a network of narrow alleys filled with tiny bars that seat only a few patrons.Shibuya City: You’ll likely make a stop in Shibuya during your journey. While it’s most known for Shibuya Crossing, the area also houses two of the world’s busiest railway stations and boasts excellent shopping opportunities.

Weather

Spring: The beauty of spring in Tokyo is hard to match, particularly if you can catch the annual cherry blossom bloom. Temperatures generally range from the low 40s to mid-70s (with mid-70s occurring in May) and average around 5 inches of rain monthly.

Summer: Tokyo summers can be warm—with temperatures reaching the high 80s—but air conditioning is ubiquitous, and there are plenty of tree-lined parks to escape the heat.

Fall: Following the spring cherry blossom season, fall is undoubtedly the best time to visit Tokyo. The weather is comfortable, and the autumn foliage can be striking against the modern city backdrop.Winter: Although temperatures don’t drop drastically in Tokyo (typically ranging from 35 to 54 degrees), the city’s coastal location can make it feel colder. If you’re visiting during winter, bundle up and plan various indoor activities.

Apps to Download

Uber: Ride hailing, electric bikes and motorized scooters, food delivery
iOs | Android

Google Translate: word translation with offline capabilities
iOs | Android

Tokyo Subway Navigation: Tokyo metro map, route planning, route updates
iOs | Android

The Infatuation: Guide to restaurants near you with in-app reviews
iOs | Android