20 Coolest Places to Visit in Tokyo
Where to Go in Tokyo Right Now: List of 20 Best Places
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If you think you have seen most of Tokyo after visiting top tourist sites, you might be wrong! Tokyo is a city full of diversity, history and culture, where you can find a wide variety of unique attractions. Many of these places are lesser-known among tourists (yet), and some have just opened in recent years.
In this article, I’m sharing an up-to-date list of the 20 best spots and things to do in Tokyo, which are cool, trendy and highly recommended for those who want to explore the city in more depth! Check out the coolest places to visit in Tokyo right now!
*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.
1. Yanaka: Tokyo’s Cool Shitamachi District
Tokyo is best known for its modern and futuristic side, filled with high-tech sights and skyscrapers. But exploring its historical side is actually a great thing to do, as you can enjoy a totally different view of Tokyo. The Yanaka area is a true hidden gem located in central Tokyo, yet it has an unspoiled atmosphere and local vibes. Shop and eat like a local at Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street and explore the charming neighbourhood!
More info: Things to Do in Yanaka
Yanaka’s Old Town Walking Tour by Magical Trip is one of the most popular guided tours in Tokyo! If you want to see a different side of Tokyo rather than the city’s modern culture, this tour is highly recommended. Enjoy walking down the local streets, stopping by for street snacks, and hitting some hidden spots!
▶ Book the tour with a discount here!
2. Sumo Morning Practice Viewing
Sumo grand tournaments are always popular attractions to watch, which are only held at limited times of the year. But if you visit sumo wrestlers’ home ground, you have the chance to get a glimpse of the real lives of wrestlers any time of the year.
Several sumo training houses are located in the Ryogoku area, Tokyo (near the Asakusa area and Tokyo Skytree), where wrestlers live and practice. Some of them are open to the public, and visitors can see their morning training session up close. Not only can you watch their dynamic and powerful movements, but it is also a place to learn Japanese traditions and discipline, which you may not often see in modern times.
Related: My Sumo Morning Practice Experience in Tokyo
If you are in Japan at the right time of the year, you can go and watch live matches of Sumo grand tournaments, which are held 6 times a year (3 times in Tokyo), and each one lasts for 15 days.
▶ Join a Tokyo Sumo Tournament Tour with tickets included!
Or, if you’re not in Tokyo during the Sumo tournament season, Dosukoi Tanaka is a unique Tonkatsu (deep-fried pork cutlet) restaurant in Tokyo where you can enjoy an up-close sumo wrestling experience. Owned by a veteran sumo wrestler, it offers sumo-style lunch shows with demonstrations, exhibition matches, entertaining lectures, photo ops, and a chance to try sumo yourself. Enjoy a hearty tonkatsu meal while immersing yourself in sumo culture.
▶ Sumo Wrestling Restaurant Tokyo: Experience and Show with Chanko Nabe Lunch at Dosukoi Tanaka
3. Nightlife in Shinjuku
You may hesitate to dive deep into Shinjuku’s nightlife, but there are a lot of things for tourists to enjoy. For example, taking nighttime photographs under the bright neon lights of Kabukicho, getting tipsy at authentic, low-key Japanese gastropubs in Omoide Yokocho, or taking in the best views of Tokyo’s skyline from high-rise observatories.
Shinjuku features major entertainment hubs that can be enjoyed day and night, such as Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, a 255-meter tall skyscraper packed with dining, nightlife, and gaming venues, and Samurai Restaurant, the popular successor to the former Robot Restaurant.
▶ Book Tickets for Samurai Restaurant with a discount here!
Out of the many bars and izakayas in the Shinjuku area, it can be difficult for tourists—and even Japanese locals—to find a good one. One of the best ways to experience Tokyo’s drinking culture is through bar-hopping tours with local guides. With the “Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku”, you can hit hidden bars in the Shinjuku area and enjoy drinking with authentic izakaya food like the locals. Check the following link to find more details about the tour!
▶ Book the Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku!
4. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter opened in Tokyo in the summer of 2023. The immersive facility recreates the world of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films on a large scale, covering a space of approximately 30,000 square meters. Visitors can immerse themselves in the magical world by exploring iconic film sets that were actually designed and produced by the creators of the film series. Make sure to book your tickets in advance for this popular Harry Potter theme park in Tokyo!
▶ Book your tickets for Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter Ticket here!
 Access |
Next to Seibu Line Toshimaen Station |
|---|---|
 Business Hours |
Weekdays 8:30 AM–7 PM, Weekends 8:30 AM–9 PM |
 Price |
7,000 yen |
 Official Website |
https://www.wbstudiotour.jp/ |
5. Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple
Tsukiji Fish Market is one of the most visited tourist sites in Tokyo, but how many visitors make their way to the gorgeous temple located right off the street? Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple is a Jodo Shinshu Buddhist temple with a unique look, as its main hall was constructed with a motif inspired by ancient Indian architecture.
Notably, there is a Japanese-style cafe, “Tsumugi”, inside the temple, serving delicious and trendy Japanese dishes. It’s a wonderful hideaway from the crowds!
| Access |
Next to Tokyo Metro Tsukiji Station |
|---|---|
| Business Hours |
6 AM–4 PM |
| Price |
Free |
| Official Website |
https://tsukijihongwanji.jp/ |
6. Walk through the Tunnel of Torii Gates at Nezu Shrine
Not too far from the Yanaka area, Nezu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Bunkyo Ward, which is also within walking distance from the Ueno area. The shrine is best known for its Azalea Festival in the springtime, but it is a great spot to visit all year round.
If Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto is your thing, Nezu Shrine also has a gorgeous tunnel made of numerous vermilion torii gates, and it’s 100% photo-worthy.
| Access |
6-min walk from Nezu Station or 7-min walk from Sendagi Station or Todaimae Station |
|---|---|
| Business Hours |
5 AM–6 PM |
| Price |
Free |
| Official Website |
http://www.nedujinja.or.jp/ |
7. Digital Art Museums: teamLab Borderless and teamLab Planets
Wish to experience modern Japanese culture with cutting-edge technology and digitized attractions? Then you should definitely hit these digital art museums that opened in Tokyo in recent years.
There are two digital art museums produced by teamLab in Tokyo: teamLab Borderless and teamLab Planets, and both have been some of the most trending tourist attractions in Tokyo. teamLab Borderless opened as the world’s first interactive digital art museum in the Odaiba area in the summer of 2018 and instantly became the hottest attraction in the city. Shortly after, teamLab’s second permanent museum, teamLab Planets, opened in the Toyosu area in Tokyo (near Toyosu Fish Market) with an immersive space comprising virtual experiences and digital art installations.
In the summer of 2022, teamLab Borderless closed its doors and reopened in early 2024 inside Azabudai Hills, a brand-new complex facility in central Tokyo, as part of the Toranomon-Azabudai Project. Meanwhile, teamLab Planets extended its operation through 2027 due to its immense popularity.
Both museums are highly popular among both Japanese and foreign visitors, so it’s recommended to book tickets in advance!
▶ Book Tickets for teamLab Borderless TOKYO in Azabudai Hills here!
▶ Book Tickets for teamLab Planets TOKYO in Toyosu here!
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8. Brand-new Shibuya
There are several notable landmarks in the Shibuya area, such as Shibuya Crossing, Shibuya 109, and the Hachiko Memorial Statue at Shibuya Station. Although Shibuya has been one of the most popular districts in Tokyo for many years, it’s now a hotter place to visit than ever.
Related: Best Things to Do in Shibuya
The district has undergone a massive transformation in recent years. Major complexes like Shibuya Stream, Shibuya PARCO, Miyashita Park, and Dogenzaka-Dori established the area as a modern hub, while newer developments like Shibuya Sakura Stage and SHIBUYA AXSH have further reshaped the skyline and made navigating around the station much smoother. Looking ahead, the area is also preparing for the completion of the new Shibuya Marui, which will reopen as a sustainable, timber-framed shopping complex.
The sky-high observatory Shibuya Sky is located on the rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square, offering panoramic views across the city. Nearby, district icon Shibuya Tsutaya also reopened following a major multi-floor renovation.
▶ Book your Shibuya Sky Observation Deck Tickets here!
Japan’s first official Nintendo store, Nintendo TOKYO, is located on the 6th floor of the renovated Shibuya PARCO, right next to Pokémon Center Shibuya. Nintendo TOKYO offers a wide range of merchandise, games, and hardware, including exclusive items sold only at this shop.
Related: What to Buy at Nintendo store in Tokyo
9. Inokashira Park
Tokyo has several great parks in the city center such as Yoyogi Park and Shinjuku Gyoen, but for a more chilled and peaceful atmosphere, Inokashira Onshi Park is a perfect place. Inokashira Onshi Park is located in one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Tokyo, the Kichijoji area, which is full of trendy cafes and stylish shops.
The area offers quick access from both Shibuya and Shinjuku. The park features a spacious layout with a scenic pond, a small zoo, and beautiful spots for cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing. The famous Ghibli Museum is located at the edge of the park. If you are a fan of Studio Ghibli films, it is a must-visit destination (note that tickets must be purchased in advance).
| Access |
2-min walk from Kichijoji Station |
|---|---|
| Business Hours |
24j |
| Price |
Free |
| Official Website |
https://www.kensetsu.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/jimusho/seibuk/inokashira/index.html |
10. Shin Okubo: the Largest Korean Town in Tokyo
If you are a K-pop fan or into Korean beauty products, there is no reason not to visit Shin-Okubo, the largest Koreatown in Tokyo. Shin-Okubo is located just north of the Shinjuku area and is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Tokyo, especially among younger generations thanks to the global popularity of Korean culture.
In Shin-Okubo, you can find tons of K-pop merchandise, the latest Korean cosmetics, vibrant street food, and authentic Korean restaurants. The streets of Shin-Okubo are lined with hundreds of shops and eateries that make you feel like you’ve stepped right into Seoul. If you are around the Shinjuku area, you should definitely stop by; it’s only one stop away on the JR Yamanote Line!
More info: Shin-Okubo First-Timer’s Guide: How to Spend a Perfect Half-Day
11. Tokyo Metropolitan Edo-Tokyo Museum
Reopened on March 31, 2026, after a comprehensive four-year renovation, the Tokyo Metropolitan Edo-Tokyo Museum offers an immersive walk through 400 years of Tokyo’s history and culture. Housed in Kiyonori Kikutake’s iconic Metabolist-style building adjacent to Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Hall, the facility uses full-scale architectural replicas, detailed town dioramas, and digital media to bring historical eras to life.
Visitors can walk across a life-sized replica of the wooden Nihonbashi Bridge, step inside the newly accessible interior of the full-scale Nakamura-za Kabuki theater, and explore re-creations of Meiji-era storefronts and Showa-era collective housing. The renovated museum features updated spatial design by architect Shohei Shigematsu, immersive digital sky projections transitioning between ukiyo-e motifs and modern Tokyo skyscapes, smartphone-accessible audio guides in 13 languages, and refreshed cafe and museum shop spaces.
Tip: Pair your visit with a morning sumo practice viewing in Ryogoku or a traditional Chanko Nabe meal nearby!
| Access |
Next to Ryogoku Station |
|---|---|
| Business Hours |
9:30 AM–5:30 PM |
 Closed |
Monday |
| Price |
800 yen |
| Official Website |
https://www.edo-tokyo-museum.or.jp/ |
12. Shimokitazawa: Tokyo’s Vintage & Subculture Hub
If you want to experience Tokyo’s bohemian side, Shimokitazawa (often called “Shimokita”) is an absolute must-visit. Located just a few minutes by train from Shibuya and Shinjuku, this creative district is famous for its retro vibe, winding alleyways, vintage clothing boutiques, second-hand record stores, and thriving live music and theater scene.
While keeping its retro charm, the neighborhood has also evolved into a modern hotspot. Sleek lifestyle developments like Reload and Mikan Shimokita have transformed the former railway grounds into lively pedestrian hubs packed with trendy coffee shops, craft beer spots, and international food stalls. Whether you’re hunting for rare vintage fashion or grabbing a coffee in a hidden courtyard, Shimokitazawa offers one of the most distinctive cultural atmospheres in the city.
More info: Shimokitazawa Local Guide: Best Things to Do
13. Tsukishima Monja Street
What is monjayaki? Often called “monja” for short, it is a classic Tokyo comfort food and a savory relative of okonomiyaki. Made with a flavorful dashi broth batter filled with ingredients like cabbage, seafood, pork, and cheese, it is poured directly onto a tabletop griddle. It might look a bit unappealing at first glance, but it is delicious, savory, and tastes a hundred times better than it looks!
The Tsukishima district is celebrated as the birthplace of this local specialty. At its heart lies Tsukishima Monja Street (Nishinaka Dori), a lively shopping avenue packed with over 50 specialized monja eateries. Eating here is an interactive dining experience: you cook the batter on your table’s iron griddle and eat it straight off the surface using tiny metal spatulas called hagashi. If you want to dive deeper into Tokyo’s authentic food culture, visiting Tsukishima for monja is an absolute must.
14. Toyosu: Tokyo’s New Prominent Tourist Destination
After relocating from its historic home in Tsukiji, the world’s largest wholesale seafood market is now established in Toyosu. Visitors can explore a vast array of specialized shops, dine at renowned sushi restaurants, and watch the iconic early-morning tuna auction from dedicated observation galleries.
Beyond the market itself, Toyosu has grown into a major entertainment hub. It houses teamLab Planets, the popular immersive digital art museum, alongside Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai, an Edo-themed complex featuring traditional architecture, an extensive seafood dining hall, and rooftop hot-spring baths with skyline views.
While wholesale operations have shifted to Toyosu, the historic Tsukiji Outer Market is still a vibrant destination packed with local street food stalls and eateries, so visiting both Tsukiji and Toyosu is an excellent pairing to experience the best of Tokyo’s rich culinary scene.
15. Fantasy Springs: Tokyo DisneySea’s New Area
Fantasy Springs, the landmark 8th themed port at Tokyo DisneySea, stands as one of the resort’s most impressive expansions. Inspired by classic Disney Animation films, the area is split into three immersive realms: Frozen Kingdom (Arendelle), Rapunzel’s Forest (Snuggly Duckling and the Lantern Festival), and Peter Pan’s Never Land (Pixie Hollow and the Lost Kids’ hideout), anchored by the in-park Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel.
Visiting Tokyo Disney Resort in 2026 brings even more fresh entertainment to experience:
- Tokyo DisneySea’s 25th Anniversary (“Sparkling Jubilee”): The park is celebrating its milestone anniversary with special harbor greetings on Mediterranean Harbor, Jubilee Blue anniversary attire for characters, limited-time food menus, and the new stage show Dreams Take Flight.
- Tokyo Disneyland Updates: The park features special seasonal events like “it’s a small world with Groot” alongside ongoing major resort transformations—including a ground-up rebuild of Tomorrowland’s Space Mountain and the upcoming Wreck-It Ralph Sugar Rush attraction.
Related: Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea Event Schedule 2026
▶ Book your Tokyo Disney Resort e-tickets here!
| Access |
From Maihama Station, transfer to Resort Gatewy Station to take the Disney Resort Line to Tokyo Disneysea Station |
|---|---|
| Business Hours |
9 AM–9 PM |
| Price |
9,900 yen |
| Official Website |
https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/tds/ |
16. PokéPark KANTO
Opened in February 2026, PokéPark KANTO is the world’s first permanent outdoor attraction dedicated entirely to the Pokémon franchise. Located in the lush Tama Hills inside Yomiuriland in western Tokyo, this 26,000-square-meter park allows visitors to step into the shoes of a Pokémon Trainer and explore a world populated by over 600 life-sized Pokémon.
The park is divided into distinct zones, including the Pokémon Forest—a 500-meter outdoor nature trail with tall grass, rocky paths, and hidden Pokémon lurking in the trees and terrain—and Sedge Town, which features a Poké Mart, Sedge Gym, character greetings, and exclusive merchandise shops. Guests can also enjoy themed food, daily parades, and interactive photo spots like the Pikachu & Eevee Playroom.
Booking Tip: Entry requires timed advance tickets online (offered as a Trainer’s Pass or Ace Trainer’s Pass), both of which include general admission to the main Yomiuriland park.
| Access |
10-min via the Sky Shuttle gondola from Keio Yomiuri-land Station. Once inside Yomiuriland, follow the signs to get to PokéPark KANTO. |
|---|---|
| Business Hours |
12–8 PM |
| Price |
Ticket prices starting at 4,700 yen. Check official website for details. |
| Official Website |
https://www.pokepark-kanto.co.jp/ |
17. MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives
Opened in March 2026 within the new Takanawa Gateway City development, MoN Takanawa (The Museum of Narratives) is one of Tokyo’s most innovative cultural landmarks. Designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, the nine-story building features a striking timber spiral structure filled with native vegetation that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces.
Rather than displaying static historical artifacts, MoN Takanawa is built as a dynamic “cultural laboratory” combining art, technology, and interactive storytelling. The venue explores rotating bi-annual themes, bridging traditional Japanese discipline, contemporary pop culture, AI, and futuristic installations across immersive exhibition galleries and a state-of-the-art 1,000-seat LED theater (BOX1000).
Key Highlights: Visit the 200-square-meter TATAMI hall for live performing arts, stop by the spiral café for signature cornet pastries, or soak your feet in the rooftop Sky Footbath Terrace (Ashiyu) while watching Shinkansen bullet trains pass below.
| Access |
5-min walk from Sengakuji Station or 6-min walk from Takanawa Gateway Station |
|---|---|
| Business Hours |
10 AM–9 PM |
| Price |
Prices vary by exhibition, general admission is usually between 800 and 2,500 yen, special programs may range between 4,000 and 6,000 yen. Check official website for details on each exhibition. |
| Official Website |
https://www.montakanawa.jp/ |
18. Tokyo Mizumachi
Located along the Kitajukken River between traditional Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Mizumachi is a vibrant waterfront shopping and dining promenade built underneath the elevated Tobu Railway tracks. Paired with the Sumida River Walk, a scenic pedestrian bridge spanning the Sumida River, it creates a pleasant walking route that connects Asakusa directly to Tokyo Skytree Town.
The complex features a dozen trendy establishments overlooking Sumida Park, including popular bakery cafe Muya, lifestyle/coffee venue Deus Ex Machina Asakusa, traditional Japanese confectioner Ichiya, and casual riverside diner Land_A. Beyond dining, the space houses LATTEST SPORTS (featuring a bouldering gym) and Wise Owl Hostels River Tokyo, making it a lively neighborhood hub for both travelers and locals.
| Access |
5-min walk from Honjo-Azumabashi Station or 10-min walk from Tobu Line Asakusa Station |
|---|---|
| Business Hours |
10 AM–9 PM |
| Official Website |
https://www.tokyo-mizumachi.jp/ |
19. Character Cafes
Character cafes are one of Tokyo’s most fun and photo-worthy dining trends, turning beloved anime, gaming, and pop-culture icons into culinary art. From Pikachu-shaped curries to Kirby dessert plates, these venues serve creatively crafted dishes, themed drinks, and exclusive collectible merchandise you won’t find anywhere else.
Tokyo features two main types of character dining experiences:
- Permanent Hotspots: Iconic venues like the Pokémon Cafe in Nihonbashi, Kirby Café at Tokyo Skytree Town, and the Harry Potter Cafe in Akasaka offer year-round immersive themed dining.
- Pop-Up Collaborations: Limited-time cafes frequently pop up in trendy shopping hubs like Shibuya, Harajuku, and Ikebukuro (often hosted at venues like Capcom Cafe or Box cafe&space) to celebrate new anime seasons, film releases, or character anniversaries.
Reservation Tip: Due to immense popularity, almost all character cafes, especially permanent favorites like Kirby Café and Pokémon Cafe, require online reservations well in advance.
Related: Best Character Cafes in Japan 2026
20. Daikanyama
Often dubbed the “Brooklyn of Tokyo,” Daikanyama is a stylish, upscale neighborhood known for its tree-lined avenues, boutique fashion shops, and laid-back cafe culture. Although situated just a short walk from bustling Shibuya and neighboring Ebisu and Nakameguro, Daikanyama offers a much quieter, refined atmosphere with fewer crowds—making it an ideal spot to stop for brunch, sip artisanal coffee, or browse chic designer labels.
The architectural centerpiece of the district is Daikanyama T-SITE, a beautifully designed complex anchored by Tsutaya Books. Spanning multiple sleek buildings, T-SITE houses an expansive selection of books, magazines, and lifestyle goods, alongside cozy cafe lounges and an adjacent Starbucks featuring leafy outdoor terrace seating.
More info ▶ Best Things to Do in Daikanyama
This article is tailored for repeat visitors looking to experience a deeper side of Tokyo. In our guide for repeat travelers below, we share insider ways to explore Tokyo’s hidden neighborhoods like a local, perfect for anyone who wants to avoid the crowds or discover something new beyond the major tourist hubs.
Hope you enjoyed this list! If you’ve already checked off Tokyo’s major landmarks like Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, and Asakusa, these unique spots will give you plenty of inspiration for your next trip.
For more ideas on top attractions or day trips, check out these guides:
Written by
"The world is my oyster." As a dedicated globetrotter and hammock enthusiast, I’ve spent years chasing new experiences, collecting stories, and discovering the world’s most incredible destinations. Born and raised in Japan, I’ve always had a deep connection to my roots, but my love for adventure has led me to spend over a decade exploring countries across the globe—from culture-rich cities to remote hideaways.
Travel isn't just a hobby for me; it's a lifestyle. I'm constantly searching for new ways to fuel my wanderlust. Over the years, I’ve developed a wealth of knowledge and a treasure trove of tips that make traveling more enjoyable, practical, and meaningful.
Through my experiences, I've come to appreciate not only the beauty of travel but also the importance of understanding diverse cultures, embracing the unfamiliar, and stepping out of my comfort zone. My travels have shaped who I am today, and I’m excited to share those lessons with others.
With Japan Web Magazine, I aim to offer practical advice, insider tips, and firsthand stories that help travelers navigate their journeys to Japan or setting off on a global adventure. From hidden gems in Japan to travel hacks that make any trip smoother, I hope my insights inspire you to embark on your own adventures and make the most of every moment. Let’s explore the world together!
You can also find my stories here ▶ https://medium.com/@nahobm
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