What to do in Tokyo

One of the world's busiest pedestrian crossings. Mark walks across it on his way to dinner.

"One of the world's busiest pedestrian crossings. Mark walks across it on his way to dinner."

Japan's tallest tower, with an observatory plus a shopping mall, planetarium, aquarium, restaurants and VR park at its base.

"Japan's tallest tower, with an observatory plus a shopping mall, planetarium, aquarium, restaurants "

Tokyo's oldest temple, at the center of Asakusa.

"Tokyo's oldest temple, at the center of Asakusa."

The street from Kaminarimon gate to Sensoji, lined with Japanese sweets, street food and souvenir shops.

"The street from Kaminarimon gate to Sensoji, lined with Japanese sweets, street food and souvenir sh"

A wildly colourful street with giant potato sticks, rainbow cheese sandwiches and huge candy floss, a uniquely Japanese experience.

"A wildly colourful street with giant potato sticks, rainbow cheese sandwiches and huge candy floss, "

A busy business and shopping area of Tokyo. It is also known for its popular after-work izakaya, including the yakitori restaurant where Mark has dinner.

"A busy business and shopping area of Tokyo. It is also known for its popular after-work izakaya, inc"

The center of Japan's kawaii fashion culture, with a young, colorful vibe and crepe shops everywhere. It is also the start of a shopping route past La Foret, Tokyo Plaza and Cat Street.

"The center of Japan's kawaii fashion culture, with a young, colorful vibe and crepe shops everywhere"

Home to the world's busiest station, with skyscrapers on the west side and shopping and entertainment on the east. It is a good base for getting anywhere in Tokyo.

"Home to the world's busiest station, with skyscrapers on the west side and shopping and entertainmen"

A retro bar-hopping area behind Hanazono Shrine with about 200 tiny bars, each fitting 6 to 10 people. Many have cover charges, so ask at the entrance.

"A retro bar-hopping area behind Hanazono Shrine with about 200 tiny bars, each fitting 6 to 10 peopl"

Otaku paradise, packed with comic stores, video games, card games, electronics, cosplay and figurines. Some shops sell adult goods, so be aware with kids.

"Otaku paradise, packed with comic stores, video games, card games, electronics, cosplay and figurine"

One of Tokyo's central business districts. Mark has a lunch of fresh sashimi and chicken soup at a traditional, old-school restaurant down a small alley here.

"One of Tokyo's central business districts. Mark has a lunch of fresh sashimi and chicken soup at a t"

A cool bar-hopping alley with about 80 tiny bars and eateries serving everything from yakitori to soba. Most seat only 5 to 6 people, which makes it easy to meet locals.

"A cool bar-hopping alley with about 80 tiny bars and eateries serving everything from yakitori to so"

The place to soak up Japanese culture on Tokyo's east side. It is touristy, so the host suggests exploring the smaller streets and visiting on a Tuesday to avoid crowds.

"The place to soak up Japanese culture on Tokyo's east side. It is touristy, so the host suggests exp"

The thunderous red gate that marks the entrance to Sensoji.

"The thunderous red gate that marks the entrance to Sensoji."

The biggest park in Shibuya, free to enter and often hosting weekend festivals with food stalls. The host picks up food and eats in the park's larger areas.

"The biggest park in Shibuya, free to enter and often hosting weekend festivals with food stalls. The"

A Shinto shrine a step from Harajuku station, reached through a spiritual forest that helps you forget everyday stress.

"A Shinto shrine a step from Harajuku station, reached through a spiritual forest that helps you forg"

A former Imperial garden with a Central Park feel and skyscraper views, entered for a small fee. It has a Japanese garden where you can experience a tea ceremony, and botanical gardens.

"A former Imperial garden with a Central Park feel and skyscraper views, entered for a small fee. It "

Modeled on the Eiffel Tower but 3 m taller, and stunning when illuminated at night. Its base has a high-tech VR gaming center, useful in bad weather.

"Modeled on the Eiffel Tower but 3 m taller, and stunning when illuminated at night. Its base has a h"

Shinjuku's red-light district north of the east exit, with neon lights, hostess bars and love hotels. It is fun to see but needs caution around the clubs.

"Shinjuku's red-light district north of the east exit, with neon lights, hostess bars and love hotels"

A massive park with seven museums, a huge pond and several temples and shrines. It hosts a cherry blossom festival with lots of food stands.

"A massive park with seven museums, a huge pond and several temples and shrines. It hosts a cherry bl"

The former fish market area, where the outer market is open to everyone for fresh market food, including kaisendon rice bowls with sashimi.

"The former fish market area, where the outer market is open to everyone for fresh market food, inclu"

The Royal Family's residence on the grounds of the former Edo Castle, a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station. Tours can be booked online for private areas, and some gardens are open to the public.

"The Royal Family's residence on the grounds of the former Edo Castle, a 10-minute walk from Tokyo St"

A great spot for high-end brand shopping, within walking distance of Harajuku. Its wide streets and sidewalks are appreciated, but weekends get very crowded.

"A great spot for high-end brand shopping, within walking distance of Harajuku. Its wide streets and "

A kitchen supply street between Ueno and Asakusa selling handcrafted Japanese cooking knives and tableware. You can even make plastic food samples.

"A kitchen supply street between Ueno and Asakusa selling handcrafted Japanese cooking knives and tab"

A bay-side area with giant shopping centers like DiverCity, Aqua City and Palette Town. It is less busy than other parts of Tokyo and good for families, with free shuttles and a monorail.

"A bay-side area with giant shopping centers like DiverCity, Aqua City and Palette Town. It is less b"

An immersive digital art museum with mirrors, neon dreamscapes and 13,000 suspended orchids. In the water exhibit you wade barefoot among digital koi.

"An immersive digital art museum with mirrors, neon dreamscapes and 13,000 suspended orchids. In the "

An immersive digital art maze in Azabudai Hills with no set path, where artworks flow from room to room. It is more abstract and exploratory than Planets.

"An immersive digital art maze in Azabudai Hills with no set path, where artworks flow from room to r"

A 360° open-air rooftop observation deck 230 m above Shibuya Crossing, with views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Expect queues.

"A 360° open-air rooftop observation deck 230 m above Shibuya Crossing, with views of Mount Fuji on c"

A giant Godzilla head on top of Hotel Gracery. You can watch it from the street or get closer from the hotel's rooftop terrace.

"A giant Godzilla head on top of Hotel Gracery. You can watch it from the street or get closer from t"

A free observation deck 202 meters up with great views by day and gorgeous city lights at night.

"A free observation deck 202 meters up with great views by day and gorgeous city lights at night."

A shrine hidden between Akasaka and Nagatacho stations with one of Tokyo's most beautiful and photogenic torii gate corridors.

"A shrine hidden between Akasaka and Nagatacho stations with one of Tokyo's most beautiful and photog"

Ikebukuro's biggest entertainment complex, with J-World, a Pokemon Center, a planetarium and an aquarium.

"Ikebukuro's biggest entertainment complex, with J-World, a Pokemon Center, a planetarium and an aqua"

A long park along the Sumida River, a popular cherry blossom viewing spot.

"A long park along the Sumida River, a popular cherry blossom viewing spot."

A lively discount shopping street that began as a post-war black market. It runs along the train tracks and is known for Chinese and Korean street food and old-school bars.

"A lively discount shopping street that began as a post-war black market. It runs along the train tra"

A nostalgic street food shopping street also known as cat town. The Yuyake Dandan stairway at its entrance is a nice spot for sunset views.

"A nostalgic street food shopping street also known as cat town. The Yuyake Dandan stairway at its en"

One of Japan's most popular theme parks, next to Tokyo DisneySea but requiring a separate ticket.

"One of Japan's most popular theme parks, next to Tokyo DisneySea but requiring a separate ticket."

A popular theme park next to Tokyo Disneyland, requiring a separate ticket.

"A popular theme park next to Tokyo Disneyland, requiring a separate ticket."

Tokyo's Koreatown, good for Korean cosmetics and K-pop goods. Avoid weekends, when it is very crowded.

"Tokyo's Koreatown, good for Korean cosmetics and K-pop goods. Avoid weekends, when it is very crowde"

One of the largest travel hubs, with a newly renovated facade and unique bento boxes and souvenirs inside at shopping areas like Gransta and Character Street.

"One of the largest travel hubs, with a newly renovated facade and unique bento boxes and souvenirs i"

A trendy neighborhood near Shibuya, suggested as a nearby area to explore.

"A trendy neighborhood near Shibuya, suggested as a nearby area to explore."

One of Shibuya's busiest streets, filled with shops, fast food and chain restaurants.

"One of Shibuya's busiest streets, filled with shops, fast food and chain restaurants."

The fashion building that is the capital of Shibuya's gyaru fashion culture. It is worth a visit just for the crazy vibe inside.

"The fashion building that is the capital of Shibuya's gyaru fashion culture. It is worth a visit jus"

A shopping complex in Harajuku, mentioned along with La Forêt.

"A shopping complex in Harajuku, mentioned along with La Forêt."

A popular shopping route linking Harajuku and Shibuya.

"A popular shopping route linking Harajuku and Shibuya."

A strip of casual drinking spots in Asakusa serving hoppy, a beer-flavored drink with shochu, alongside cheap food from stalls.

"A strip of casual drinking spots in Asakusa serving hoppy, a beer-flavored drink with shochu, alongs"

The Asahi building, designed to look like a beer mug with foam on top, where you can have a cold beer overlooking the city.

"The Asahi building, designed to look like a beer mug with foam on top, where you can have a cold bee"

A life-sized Gundam statue in front of DiverCity, with a Gundam Base shop inside selling models and goods.

"A life-sized Gundam statue in front of DiverCity, with a Gundam Base shop inside selling models and "

You can run or walk across the bridge from the Ginza side to Odaiba, with great views of Odaiba from the bridge.

"You can run or walk across the bridge from the Ginza side to Odaiba, with great views of Odaiba from"

One of Tokyo's most foreign-friendly neighborhoods, known for luxury shopping at Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown, nightlife and art museums.

"One of Tokyo's most foreign-friendly neighborhoods, known for luxury shopping at Roppongi Hills and "

A laid-back, funky hipster neighborhood with vintage clothing shops everywhere and cozy cafes in the back streets.

"A laid-back, funky hipster neighborhood with vintage clothing shops everywhere and cozy cafes in the"

A Buddhist temple in Setagaya, about 30 minutes from Shinjuku, said to be a possible birthplace of the lucky maneki-neko cat. Its huge collection of maneki-neko is unlike anywhere else.

"A Buddhist temple in Setagaya, about 30 minutes from Shinjuku, said to be a possible birthplace of t"

Japan's national science and innovation museum, full of robots. It also has a spectacular globe made of over 10,000 OLED panels.

"Japan's national science and innovation museum, full of robots. It also has a spectacular globe made"

A replica Statue of Liberty by the bay on the Odaiba waterfront, in the shadow of the Fuji TV Building.

"A replica Statue of Liberty by the bay on the Odaiba waterfront, in the shadow of the Fuji TV Buildi"

Tokyo's more relaxed neighbour and one of the first ports opened to foreign trade in 1859. It is easy to combine with Kamakura in one day.

"Tokyo's more relaxed neighbour and one of the first ports opened to foreign trade in 1859. It is eas"

Yokohama's shiny waterfront district with a futuristic skyline on the bay.

"Yokohama's shiny waterfront district with a futuristic skyline on the bay."

Japan's largest Chinatown, with over 600 restaurants, buns and dumplings. It is a great night photography spot.

"Japan's largest Chinatown, with over 600 restaurants, buns and dumplings. It is a great night photog"

A pleasant riverside walk beneath Tokyo Skytree with a cool breeze, especially nice in the evening. You can follow it into central Tokyo.

"A pleasant riverside walk beneath Tokyo Skytree with a cool breeze, especially nice in the evening. "

A three-storey retro game shop stocking Famicom cartridges and Mega Drives, with an upstairs coin-op arcade full of CRT screens.

"A three-storey retro game shop stocking Famicom cartridges and Mega Drives, with an upstairs coin-op"

A five-storey otaku store selling high-quality anime figures, manga merchandise and cosplay gear.

"A five-storey otaku store selling high-quality anime figures, manga merchandise and cosplay gear."

One of Tokyo's largest cemeteries, established in 1874. It is a calm place for a stroll, especially in cherry blossom season, with feral cats sleeping on tombs.

"One of Tokyo's largest cemeteries, established in 1874. It is a calm place for a stroll, especially "

Suggested day trip that is breathtaking in autumn colors.

"Suggested day trip that is breathtaking in autumn colors."

A major cultural institution in Ueno Park, mentioned as one of the park's key attractions.

"A major cultural institution in Ueno Park, mentioned as one of the park's key attractions."

A museum dedicated to the works of the Japanese animation studio Studio Ghibli, popular with anime fans.

"A museum dedicated to the works of the Japanese animation studio Studio Ghibli, popular with anime f"

Akihabara's main street, closed to cars on Sunday afternoons so pedestrians can walk freely.

"Akihabara's main street, closed to cars on Sunday afternoons so pedestrians can walk freely."

A rooftop that offers a unique top-down view of Shibuya Crossing.

"A rooftop that offers a unique top-down view of Shibuya Crossing."

A shopping complex home to the official Nintendo store and the Pokémon Center. It is a great spot for exclusive gaming and anime merchandise.

"A shopping complex home to the official Nintendo store and the Pokémon Center. It is a great spot fo"

A giant 3D billboard cat that appears every few minutes between 7am and 1am.

"A giant 3D billboard cat that appears every few minutes between 7am and 1am."

A museum where hundreds of goldfish drift through kaleidoscopic tanks that feel more like modern art than aquariums.

"A museum where hundreds of goldfish drift through kaleidoscopic tanks that feel more like modern art"

An iconic pagoda reached by 397 steps, with a classic view of Mount Fuji from the top.

"An iconic pagoda reached by 397 steps, with a classic view of Mount Fuji from the top."

Japan's iconic mountain is about 1.5 hours from Tokyo by bullet train and offers great views, and some visitors climb to the summit. You can also see it from the Tokaido Shinkansen on the way to Osaka.

"Japan's iconic mountain is about 1.5 hours from Tokyo by bullet train and offers great views, and so"

A stylish, trendy neighborhood that was once a geisha district. Stone-paved lanes and quiet alleyways remain, and it is a good spot for street food.

"A stylish, trendy neighborhood that was once a geisha district. Stone-paved lanes and quiet alleyway"

One of the busiest districts on the Yamanote Line, with big department stores like Tobu and Seibu, great ramen and a reputation as an anime hub.

"One of the busiest districts on the Yamanote Line, with big department stores like Tobu and Seibu, g"

Ryogoku, near Skytree, is the home of sumo, with sumo stables and the Kokugikan arena. Tournaments are held in January, May and September, and tickets are fairly easy for visitors to get.

"Ryogoku, near Skytree, is the home of sumo, with sumo stables and the Kokugikan arena. Tournaments a"

Odaiba's landmark observation deck, with views of Tokyo Port, Skytree and Tokyo Tower. The lower floors have event shops for anime like One Piece and Dragon Ball.

"Odaiba's landmark observation deck, with views of Tokyo Port, Skytree and Tokyo Tower. The lower flo"

A complex by the station mentioned as a spot for free overhead views of the scramble crossing.

"A complex by the station mentioned as a spot for free overhead views of the scramble crossing."

A 'meat alleyway' of izakaya-style eateries in Shibuya, good for experiencing Japanese drinking and dining culture.

"A 'meat alleyway' of izakaya-style eateries in Shibuya, good for experiencing Japanese drinking and "

Known for its cherry blossom tunnel along the Meguro River, plus trendy bars, restaurants, accessory shops and high-end vintage stores.

"Known for its cherry blossom tunnel along the Meguro River, plus trendy bars, restaurants, accessory"

A fashion shopping building in Harajuku, mentioned as a stop after walking the main street.

"A fashion shopping building in Harajuku, mentioned as a stop after walking the main street."

A quirky, less touristy hidden shrine dedicated to Admiral Togo Heihachiro, who was born in 1847.

"A quirky, less touristy hidden shrine dedicated to Admiral Togo Heihachiro, who was born in 1847."

An indoor theme park inside Sunshine City with arcade games, haunted attractions, escape rooms and a gyoza food area.

"An indoor theme park inside Sunshine City with arcade games, haunted attractions, escape rooms and a"

Asakusa's retro amusement park, the oldest theme park in Japan, where a roller coaster sits next to a historic temple. You can see Sensoji from the free fall ride.

"Asakusa's retro amusement park, the oldest theme park in Japan, where a roller coaster sits next to "

A Kabuki theater in Ginza where you can see traditional performing arts while eating a bento box. The basement has souvenir shops.

"A Kabuki theater in Ginza where you can see traditional performing arts while eating a bento box. Th"

A small food hall in Aqua City gathering five popular ramen shops from around Japan in one place.

"A small food hall in Aqua City gathering five popular ramen shops from around Japan in one place."

A three-floor indoor amusement park in Aqua City with unusual rides, VR games and sometimes virtual anime concerts.

"A three-floor indoor amusement park in Aqua City with unusual rides, VR games and sometimes virtual "

A beach area for relaxing, with paddleboard and sailboat rentals and a spectacular night view of Rainbow Bridge.

"A beach area for relaxing, with paddleboard and sailboat rentals and a spectacular night view of Rai"

One of the main stadiums for watching Japanese baseball, with a lively atmosphere unlike US games.

"One of the main stadiums for watching Japanese baseball, with a lively atmosphere unlike US games."

A stadium for baseball games in Tokyo, along with Tokyo Dome.

"A stadium for baseball games in Tokyo, along with Tokyo Dome."

An art museum in Roppongi worth checking out.

"An art museum in Roppongi worth checking out."

An art museum in Roppongi Hills mentioned as worth a visit.

"An art museum in Roppongi Hills mentioned as worth a visit."

The host's favorite Tokyo observatory, with views of Tokyo Bay and the city from the 52nd floor and an open-air sky deck on sunny days.

"The host's favorite Tokyo observatory, with views of Tokyo Bay and the city from the 52nd floor and "

A calming park behind Tokyo Midtown with a Japanese garden, a pond, seasonal leaf colors and a playground for kids.

"A calming park behind Tokyo Midtown with a Japanese garden, a pond, seasonal leaf colors and a playg"

One of Tokyo's most desirable places to live, with lots of restaurants, shopping streets and street food. It feels like a more down-to-earth second Shibuya.

"One of Tokyo's most desirable places to live, with lots of restaurants, shopping streets and street "

A beautiful park in Kichijoji, mentioned as one of the area's highlights.

"A beautiful park in Kichijoji, mentioned as one of the area's highlights."

A bar alley in Kichijoji and one of the area's main highlights.

"A bar alley in Kichijoji and one of the area's main highlights."

An open-air museum of historic buildings, from ordinary middle-class houses to a former Prime Minister's home. The host calls it one of his favorite photo spots.

"An open-air museum of historic buildings, from ordinary middle-class houses to a former Prime Minist"

A street food shopping street about ten minutes from Shinjuku with a friendly, chill atmosphere. Locals call it a daily dish heaven, with cheap croquettes, yakitori and chicken balls.

"A street food shopping street about ten minutes from Shinjuku with a friendly, chill atmosphere. Loc"

A street food shopping street few foreign travelers visit because it is hard to reach, but the yakitori is worth it.

"A street food shopping street few foreign travelers visit because it is hard to reach, but the yakit"

Tokyo's longest shopping street, 1.3 km with more than 400 stores. Cars drive through it, so be careful.

"Tokyo's longest shopping street, 1.3 km with more than 400 stores. Cars drive through it, so be care"

An open shopping and amusement area next to Tokyo Dome with roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, restaurants and shops, good before or after baseball games or concerts.

"An open shopping and amusement area next to Tokyo Dome with roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, restaur"

One of the only ravines in Tokyo's 23 wards, about 20 minutes from Shibuya, where you can stroll along the Yazawa River and enjoy nature.

"One of the only ravines in Tokyo's 23 wards, about 20 minutes from Shibuya, where you can stroll alo"

A chaotic, smoky business district that is one of Tokyo's best spots for night photography, with the Yamanote line roaring overhead and standing bars full of office workers.

"A chaotic, smoky business district that is one of Tokyo's best spots for night photography, with the"

A 1970s relic of bubble-era Japan with low ceilings. Inside is a maze of cafes, standing bars and old-school repair shops.

"A 1970s relic of bubble-era Japan with low ceilings. Inside is a maze of cafes, standing bars and ol"

A retro basement kissaten in the New Shimbashi Building with a sweeping photo of Mount Fuji on the wall and decor unchanged since the 1960s. It serves cola floats and old-style dishes.

"A retro basement kissaten in the New Shimbashi Building with a sweeping photo of Mount Fuji on the w"

Asia's largest indoor miniature theme park, with 8,000 m² of detailed dioramas that shift from day to night every 15 minutes. It also has a working miniature airport.

"Asia's largest indoor miniature theme park, with 8,000 m² of detailed dioramas that shift from day t"

A waterfront mall with a retro Showa-era amusement street of sweet shops and vintage arcades. It also has a new museum packed with memorabilia.

"A waterfront mall with a retro Showa-era amusement street of sweet shops and vintage arcades. It als"

A food court in DECKS serving regional variations of takoyaki, Osaka's favourite street food.

"A food court in DECKS serving regional variations of takoyaki, Osaka's favourite street food."

A government-run facility that teaches earthquake survival. Its highlight is an immersive simulation of the aftermath of a mega-quake.

"A government-run facility that teaches earthquake survival. Its highlight is an immersive simulation"

A Thai restaurant by Shimokitazawa Station that looks like a 1980s movie set, covered in neon lights. The food is very good too.

"A Thai restaurant by Shimokitazawa Station that looks like a 1980s movie set, covered in neon lights"

A stylish tea shop serving Kyoto-sourced matcha, sold in sachets packed inside literal passports. It is recommended as a first-date spot.

"A stylish tea shop serving Kyoto-sourced matcha, sold in sachets packed inside literal passports. It"

A sticker shop that feels like a chaotic art gallery. Its stickers are UV-resistant, waterproof and even dishwasher safe.

"A sticker shop that feels like a chaotic art gallery. Its stickers are UV-resistant, waterproof and "

A series of restaurants on the outskirts of Shimokitazawa, near the start of a quiet residential walking path to Gotokuji.

"A series of restaurants on the outskirts of Shimokitazawa, near the start of a quiet residential wal"

A cafe in Tokyu Plaza Shibuya staffed by dozens of SoftBank Pepper robots that serve and entertain customers.

"A cafe in Tokyu Plaza Shibuya staffed by dozens of SoftBank Pepper robots that serve and entertain c"

A gritty, neon-lit Shibuya district full of love hotels and nightlife. It is a top night photography spot with a Blade Runner atmosphere.

"A gritty, neon-lit Shibuya district full of love hotels and nightlife. It is a top night photography"

A Tsutaya bookstore spread across three sleek interlinked buildings with curated books, magazines and vinyl. There is even a car showroom inside.

"A Tsutaya bookstore spread across three sleek interlinked buildings with curated books, magazines an"

A craft brewery taproom in a renovated warehouse that serves beer flights brewed on site. It has outdoor seating.

"A craft brewery taproom in a renovated warehouse that serves beer flights brewed on site. It has out"

A riverside area in Nakameguro, mentioned as the location of a Don Quijote branch.

"A riverside area in Nakameguro, mentioned as the location of a Don Quijote branch."

A tiny counter-only burger joint with cult status for simple, melt-in-your-mouth wagyu burgers.

"A tiny counter-only burger joint with cult status for simple, melt-in-your-mouth wagyu burgers."

A small shrine in Akasaka with perhaps Japan's most impressive collection of fox statues, set amid a maze of lanterns and incense.

"A small shrine in Akasaka with perhaps Japan's most impressive collection of fox statues, set amid a"

A district that grew up around the local beer factory and is named after the Yebisu brand.

"A district that grew up around the local beer factory and is named after the Yebisu brand."

A brewery that tells the history of Yebisu beer and offers beer tastings.

"A brewery that tells the history of Yebisu beer and offers beer tastings."

Known as Little Edo, this town has preserved Edo, Meiji and Taisho-era streets. It is 45 minutes by train from Shinjuku.

"Known as Little Edo, this town has preserved Edo, Meiji and Taisho-era streets. It is 45 minutes by "

Kawagoe's main street of preserved Edo-period clay warehouses with black-tiled roofs.

"Kawagoe's main street of preserved Edo-period clay warehouses with black-tiled roofs."

Kawagoe's iconic wooden bell tower, which has rung over the town for centuries and still rings four times a day.

"Kawagoe's iconic wooden bell tower, which has rung over the town for centuries and still rings four "

Candy Alley, a narrow street of around 20 retro sweet shops selling old-school confectionery and sweet potato pudding.

"Candy Alley, a narrow street of around 20 retro sweet shops selling old-school confectionery and swe"

A 1,500-year-old love and marriage shrine with a huge torii gate. In summer its walkway becomes a tunnel of 5,000 wind chimes.

"A 1,500-year-old love and marriage shrine with a huge torii gate. In summer its walkway becomes a tu"

An eel restaurant grilling unagi in Kawagoe since 1807, famous for smoky eel with sweet soy glaze. Waits can reach 2 hours.

"An eel restaurant grilling unagi in Kawagoe since 1807, famous for smoky eel with sweet soy glaze. W"

A tiny island off Kanagawa's coast with shrines, seafood stalls, sea views and caves. It is about 45 minutes from Shibuya.

"A tiny island off Kanagawa's coast with shrines, seafood stalls, sea views and caves. It is about 45"

One of Japan's three great shrines to the goddess Benzaiten, with water features and a spring where visitors wash coins for wealth.

"One of Japan's three great shrines to the goddess Benzaiten, with water features and a spring where "

A 60 m lighthouse and observation deck at the island's summit with sweeping coastal views.

"A 60 m lighthouse and observation deck at the island's summit with sweeping coastal views."

Candlelit cave tunnels carved into the rock that have been a place of worship for over 1,000 years. An animatronic dragon reacts to visitors.

"Candlelit cave tunnels carved into the rock that have been a place of worship for over 1,000 years. "

A charming little green coastal train running since 1902 between Fujisawa and Kamakura. Its crossing is famous from the Slam Dunk anime opening, with possible Mount Fuji views.

"A charming little green coastal train running since 1902 between Fujisawa and Kamakura. Its crossing"

A compact seaside former capital with around 100 temples and shrines tucked into its back streets and forested hills.

"A compact seaside former capital with around 100 temples and shrines tucked into its back streets an"

A 13 m, 121-ton bronze Buddha from the 13th century that has sat outdoors since a tsunami washed away its hall in 1498.

"A 13 m, 121-ton bronze Buddha from the 13th century that has sat outdoors since a tsunami washed awa"

A Kamakura shop known for legendary deep-fried curry bread, which locals call the best in Japan.

"A Kamakura shop known for legendary deep-fried curry bread, which locals call the best in Japan."

A Zen temple with a magical bamboo grove of over 2,000 stalks and a tea house for matcha. It is a quieter alternative to Arashiyama.

"A Zen temple with a magical bamboo grove of over 2,000 stalks and a tea house for matcha. It is a qu"

A ramen museum with a full-scale recreation of a 1950s street. Half-size bowls let you sample regional ramen from across Japan.

"A ramen museum with a full-scale recreation of a 1950s street. Half-size bowls let you sample region"

A 296 m tower that was once Japan's tallest building and anchors the Minato Mirai skyline.

"A 296 m tower that was once Japan's tallest building and anchors the Minato Mirai skyline."

A museum celebrating Momofuku Ando, inventor of instant and cup noodles. A mini factory lets you design your own cup noodles.

"A museum celebrating Momofuku Ando, inventor of instant and cup noodles. A mini factory lets you des"

A volcanic island administered by Tokyo and about 2 hours away by jet ferry. It has sleepy fishing towns, pristine coastline and huge spiders.

"A volcanic island administered by Tokyo and about 2 hours away by jet ferry. It has sleepy fishing t"

One of Japan's largest black-sand volcanic deserts, on Izu Oshima.

"One of Japan's largest black-sand volcanic deserts, on Izu Oshima."

A gritty Showa-era corridor beneath Asakusa Station with dim lighting, retro signage, old bars and noodle joints. Most tourists miss it.

"A gritty Showa-era corridor beneath Asakusa Station with dim lighting, retro signage, old bars and n"

A Kengo Kuma–designed building opposite Kaminarimon. Its free top-floor observation deck overlooks Nakamise, Sensoji and Skytree.

"A Kengo Kuma–designed building opposite Kaminarimon. Its free top-floor observation deck overlooks N"

Tokyo's book district, with around 150 bookshops, many specialising in rare and out-of-print works.

"Tokyo's book district, with around 150 bookshops, many specialising in rare and out-of-print works."

A shrine believed to date to the 10th century, nestled among the glass towers of Tokyo's financial district. It is a popular photo spot that contrasts old and new.

"A shrine believed to date to the 10th century, nestled among the glass towers of Tokyo's financial d"

One of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, famous for its tunnel of torii gates and azalea blooms each April.

"One of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, famous for its tunnel of torii gates and azalea blooms each Ap"

A sprawling Edo-era landscape garden with a central pond, tea houses, stone bridges and trails through maple forest.

"A sprawling Edo-era landscape garden with a central pond, tea houses, stone bridges and trails throu"

Granny's Harajuku, a lived-in shopping street of nearly 800 m with street food, temples and few tourists.

"Granny's Harajuku, a lived-in shopping street of nearly 800 m with street food, temples and few tour"

A glass-roofed arcade of over 100 shops and eateries leading from Nakano Station to Nakano Broadway.

"A glass-roofed arcade of over 100 shops and eateries leading from Nakano Station to Nakano Broadway."

A 1966 mall turned four-floor otaku labyrinth of anime, manga, vintage toys and collectibles. It is a quieter alternative to Akihabara.

"A 1966 mall turned four-floor otaku labyrinth of anime, manga, vintage toys and collectibles. It is "

The manga and memorabilia mothership, with over 30 sub-stores inside Nakano Broadway. These include Henya, a pre-war tin toy shop entered through a torii tunnel.

"The manga and memorabilia mothership, with over 30 sub-stores inside Nakano Broadway. These include "

A basement ice cream stand in Nakano Broadway famous for its eight-layer jumbo soft serve.

"A basement ice cream stand in Nakano Broadway famous for its eight-layer jumbo soft serve."

One of Tokyo's premier cherry blossom spots, where rowboats rent for about $4. Boats are first come, first served, and queues can start at 8 a.m. in peak season.

"One of Tokyo's premier cherry blossom spots, where rowboats rent for about $4. Boats are first come,"

A controversial but beautiful shrine across the road from Kitanomaru Park. During the summer Mitama Festival, over 30,000 lanterns light up its walls.

"A controversial but beautiful shrine across the road from Kitanomaru Park. During the summer Mitama "

Suggested as a great day or overnight trip north of Tokyo.

"Suggested as a great day or overnight trip north of Tokyo."

Suggested day trip that is breathtaking in autumn colors.

"Suggested day trip that is breathtaking in autumn colors."

Tokyo's new fish market, which replaced the old Tsukiji fish market, about 10 minutes from teamLab Planets. A convenient place to eat afterwards.

"Tokyo's new fish market, which replaced the old Tsukiji fish market, about 10 minutes from teamLab P"

A Harajuku sweet shop known for its oversized, colourful cotton candy.

"A Harajuku sweet shop known for its oversized, colourful cotton candy."

A long-running Harajuku crepe stand that serves sweet crepes with many fillings.

"A long-running Harajuku crepe stand that serves sweet crepes with many fillings."

Public gardens within the Imperial Palace grounds with charming pathways among the remains of Edo Castle.

"Public gardens within the Imperial Palace grounds with charming pathways among the remains of Edo Ca"

A popular meeting spot honouring the loyal Akita dog Hachiko, who waited at Shibuya Station for his deceased owner every day for 9 years.

"A popular meeting spot honouring the loyal Akita dog Hachiko, who waited at Shibuya Station for his "

A national science and natural history museum located in Ueno Park.

"A national science and natural history museum located in Ueno Park."

A temple hall in Ueno Park that sits on an island in Shinobazu Pond.

"A temple hall in Ueno Park that sits on an island in Shinobazu Pond."

One of Ueno Park's main attractions and home to various bird species. You can rent a boat and enjoy views of the surrounding area.

"One of Ueno Park's main attractions and home to various bird species. You can rent a boat and enjoy "

A Buddhist temple with beautiful views towards Tokyo Tower, a good alternative if you lack time for the observation decks.

"A Buddhist temple with beautiful views towards Tokyo Tower, a good alternative if you lack time for "

A one-of-a-kind cafe where robot avatars serve you food and drinks. The robots are remotely controlled by people with disabilities or health challenges, letting them engage with society from home.

"A one-of-a-kind cafe where robot avatars serve you food and drinks. The robots are remotely controll"

Street crossing Nakamise that is designed to look like a street from the Edo era.

"Street crossing Nakamise that is designed to look like a street from the Edo era."

A time-capsule town far from central Tokyo that escaped wartime damage and keeps many well-preserved traditional buildings. It is famous as the setting of the Tora-san film series.

"A time-capsule town far from central Tokyo that escaped wartime damage and keeps many well-preserved"

A statue of Tora-san, hero of the hugely popular Japanese film series set in Shibamata, stands outside Shibamata Station.

"A statue of Tora-san, hero of the hugely popular Japanese film series set in Shibamata, stands outsi"

The approach street to Taishakuten temple is lined with traditional food and retail shops, many run by the same families for generations. You can find daruma dolls and freshly grilled isobe dango here, and some shops were sets for the Tora-san films.

"The approach street to Taishakuten temple is lined with traditional food and retail shops, many run "

This Kyoto-like temple is over 300 years old. A pine tree said to resemble a flying dragon stands in front, and you can pay to enter its garden.

"This Kyoto-like temple is over 300 years old. A pine tree said to resemble a flying dragon stands in"

The restored 1920s Taisho-era home of a wealthy merchant, with a Western-style living room, costs only 100 yen to enter. It has a tearoom serving matcha and wagashi overlooking a lovely Japanese garden.

"The restored 1920s Taisho-era home of a wealthy merchant, with a Western-style living room, costs on"

This water purification tower near the Edo River is nicknamed the 'Witch Hat' for its pointed shape. It is a quirky sight on a walk from Shibamata.

"This water purification tower near the Edo River is nicknamed the 'Witch Hat' for its pointed shape."

People visit this shrine to pray for financial luck, and it sells tiny snake ornaments with golden poo. Its Nadeja-sama statue is said to reveal your fortune through its expression, and you stroke its face to make the fortune come true.

"People visit this shrine to pray for financial luck, and it sells tiny snake ornaments with golden p"

Yanaka survived both the Great Kanto Earthquake and WWII bombings, so it keeps much of its old-world charm. Traditional buildings sit between modern ones.

"Yanaka survived both the Great Kanto Earthquake and WWII bombings, so it keeps much of its old-world"

One of Yanaka's oldest classic kissaten, with traditional tatami seating on the second floor. It is known for a soft, fluffy egg sandwich served with soup and salad, and booking ahead is recommended.

"One of Yanaka's oldest classic kissaten, with traditional tatami seating on the second floor. It is "

A small temple at the end of Yanaka Cemetery, home to a beautiful Buddha statue.

"A small temple at the end of Yanaka Cemetery, home to a beautiful Buddha statue."

The 'sunset stairs' lead down into Yanaka Ginza and are a well-known view of the old shopping street.

"The 'sunset stairs' lead down into Yanaka Ginza and are a well-known view of the old shopping street"

A cluster of Showa-era houses converted into independent shops. Tenants include a craft beer hall, a salt and olive oil shop, a Madagascar chocolate shop and a popular bakery.

"A cluster of Showa-era houses converted into independent shops. Tenants include a craft beer hall, a"

A beer hall inside Ueno Sakuragi Atari serving a variety of local craft beers.

"A beer hall inside Ueno Sakuragi Atari serving a variety of local craft beers."

A peony garden in Ueno Park whose flowers bloom twice a year. In winter they are shown under small straw huts alongside flower arrangement displays.

"A peony garden in Ueno Park whose flowers bloom twice a year. In winter they are shown under small s"

A modern urban space built above a train line that combines shopping, dining and a rooftop park.

"A modern urban space built above a train line that combines shopping, dining and a rooftop park."

A Studio Ghibli store in Miyashita Park that sells limited-edition Ghibli merchandise.

"A Studio Ghibli store in Miyashita Park that sells limited-edition Ghibli merchandise."

A themed animal cafe where visitors can hang out with micro pigs.

"A themed animal cafe where visitors can hang out with micro pigs."

A small, cozy cafe pairing handmade doughnuts with specialty coffee. Hokkaido ingredients give the doughnuts a light, fluffy texture, and the host rates it possibly the best doughnut shop in Tokyo.

"A small, cozy cafe pairing handmade doughnuts with specialty coffee. Hokkaido ingredients give the d"

A casual conveyor-belt branch of the Michelin-starred Onodera group, with ordering by tablet. It serves high-end Edomae-style sushi at a more approachable price.

"A casual conveyor-belt branch of the Michelin-starred Onodera group, with ordering by tablet. It ser"

A shrine open 24 hours, best visited by day to admire its bright vermilion torii gates. It is especially pretty in cherry blossom season.

"A shrine open 24 hours, best visited by day to admire its bright vermilion torii gates. It is especi"

A legendary tsukemen shop serving noodles with a deeply rich chicken and bonito dipping broth. Queues of 30–45 minutes are typical.

"A legendary tsukemen shop serving noodles with a deeply rich chicken and bonito dipping broth. Queue"

A top-rated conveyor-belt sushi spot right next to Tokyo Skytree.

"A top-rated conveyor-belt sushi spot right next to Tokyo Skytree."

An iconic 10-floor landmark building packed with collectible figures, model kits, trading cards and rare merchandise.

"An iconic 10-floor landmark building packed with collectible figures, model kits, trading cards and "

A concept bar styled after Capcom's Monster Hunter, with menu items inspired by in-game foods. It is decorated with relics and armour, and the game is playable.

"A concept bar styled after Capcom's Monster Hunter, with menu items inspired by in-game foods. It is"

A Final Fantasy XIV themed cafe with detailed interiors and dishes based on the game. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

"A Final Fantasy XIV themed cafe with detailed interiors and dishes based on the game. Reservations a"

A stall serving tamagoyaki hot off the griddle, sweet and fluffy and perfect for breakfast on the go.

"A stall serving tamagoyaki hot off the griddle, sweet and fluffy and perfect for breakfast on the go"

A 33rd-floor lobby offering the best view of Tokyo Tower. Entry requires ordering at least one drink from a Sky Lobby cafe.

"A 33rd-floor lobby offering the best view of Tokyo Tower. Entry requires ordering at least one drink"

An entertainment complex inside Tokyo Tower with VR rides, sim racing rigs and esports arenas.

"An entertainment complex inside Tokyo Tower with VR rides, sim racing rigs and esports arenas."

A world-class yakiniku restaurant where staff grill each cut tableside in private rooms. The highlight is an ultra-tender wagyu katsu sando.

"A world-class yakiniku restaurant where staff grill each cut tableside in private rooms. The highlig"

Affordable Japanese breakfast set restaurant where you pick a freshly grilled fish, such as dried mackerel or salmon, served with miso soup, pickles, radish and rice.

"Affordable Japanese breakfast set restaurant where you pick a freshly grilled fish, such as dried ma"

Bakery with a large range of fresh sweet and savory baked goods. Highlights include a crispy curry bread, a fluffy pistachio cream bun and a peppery, cheesy egg sando.

"Bakery with a large range of fresh sweet and savory baked goods. Highlights include a crispy curry b"

Popular street food stall selling addictive, juicy menchi katsu croquettes filled with a beef and pork mixture. Lines are common but move fast.

"Popular street food stall selling addictive, juicy menchi katsu croquettes filled with a beef and po"

Popular spot specialising in unagi rice balls, made with sauce-soaked rice and eel coated in a slightly sweet soy tare.

"Popular spot specialising in unagi rice balls, made with sauce-soaked rice and eel coated in a sligh"

Melon pan shop dating back to 1945, known for freshly baked, still-warm melon pan. One version comes stuffed with matcha ice cream.

"Melon pan shop dating back to 1945, known for freshly baked, still-warm melon pan. One version comes"

Long-running chanko nabe restaurant near the sumo arena. The hearty chicken-stock stew of vegetables and chicken is cooked in front of you and finished with rice and egg as a porridge.

"Long-running chanko nabe restaurant near the sumo arena. The hearty chicken-stock stew of vegetables"

Ramen shop serving refined paitan chicken and shoyu broths with excellent chashu. Its signature extra is a neon orange espuma sauce.

"Ramen shop serving refined paitan chicken and shoyu broths with excellent chashu. Its signature extr"

Onigiri shop with a huge selection of hefty, freshly made rice balls. Options include soy-marinated egg, deluxe salmon with roe and horse mackerel.

"Onigiri shop with a huge selection of hefty, freshly made rice balls. Options include soy-marinated "

Tamagoyaki stall selling slightly sweet, juicy rolled omelette, a handy snack while exploring the market.

"Tamagoyaki stall selling slightly sweet, juicy rolled omelette, a handy snack while exploring the ma"

Norwegian-style café styled like a modern log cabin, with a second floor at this branch. It serves great coffee and Norwegian waffles with seasonal toppings.

"Norwegian-style café styled like a modern log cabin, with a second floor at this branch. It serves g"

Moody post-war kissaten open since 1948 that feels like stepping back in time. It is known for classic coffees and a fantastic coffee jelly, though prices are high.

"Moody post-war kissaten open since 1948 that feels like stepping back in time. It is known for class"

Part coffee shop, part streetwear store in residential Shibuya, with comfy leather couches. It serves a great salted caramel latte and matcha.

"Part coffee shop, part streetwear store in residential Shibuya, with comfy leather couches. It serve"

High-end specialty coffee shop with a dazzling range of single-origin beans. Pourovers are recommended for tasting how each origin differs.

"High-end specialty coffee shop with a dazzling range of single-origin beans. Pourovers are recommend"

Conveyor belt sushi restaurant in Parco with decently priced sushi, mostly made fresh to order. The range runs from tuna and gunkan to more extravagant seafood-loaded pieces.

"Conveyor belt sushi restaurant in Parco with decently priced sushi, mostly made fresh to order. The "

Michelin-starred, 12-seat omakase sushi restaurant on a residential street, famous for putting modern twists on tradition. The meal runs to around 21 pieces prepared in front of you.

"Michelin-starred, 12-seat omakase sushi restaurant on a residential street, famous for putting moder"

Tonkatsu restaurant with a menu of premium Japanese pork breeds, cuts and tasting notes. Sets come with free unlimited refills of rice, cabbage and soup.

"Tonkatsu restaurant with a menu of premium Japanese pork breeds, cuts and tasting notes. Sets come w"

Legendary yakitori restaurant packed with locals at the counter. Set courses include gizzard, chicken skin, liver, quail eggs, rare chicken and unagi.

"Legendary yakitori restaurant packed with locals at the counter. Set courses include gizzard, chicke"

Iconic hole-in-the-wall izakaya under the train tracks outside Yurakucho Station, popular with salarymen and foreigners. It serves fresh sashimi, miso black cod, tempura prawns and stuffed chicken wings.

"Iconic hole-in-the-wall izakaya under the train tracks outside Yurakucho Station, popular with salar"

Fine dining restaurant inside Tokyo DisneySea with an elaborate Age of Exploration themed dining room.

"Fine dining restaurant inside Tokyo DisneySea with an elaborate Age of Exploration themed dining roo"

Japan's oldest bakery, established in 1869, famous for anpan sweet rolls. Fillings include cream cheese, sweet potato, chestnut and red bean with sakura.

"Japan's oldest bakery, established in 1869, famous for anpan sweet rolls. Fillings include cream che"

Tea house in Shinjuku Gyoen serving teas and daifuku mochi, such as red bean or fig and rare cheese. Guests sit on tatami amid trees with views of the skyline.

"Tea house in Shinjuku Gyoen serving teas and daifuku mochi, such as red bean or fig and rare cheese."

Tea shop famous for matcha ice cream in seven strengths, including what it claims is the world's strongest. It also sells matcha-topped dango.

"Tea shop famous for matcha ice cream in seven strengths, including what it claims is the world's str"

A neighbourhood known for its museums and parks, suggested as an alternative area to explore.

"A neighbourhood known for its museums and parks, suggested as an alternative area to explore."

A Harry Potter attraction for wizarding fun, with tickets around $37.

"A Harry Potter attraction for wizarding fun, with tickets around $37."

An indoor Sanrio theme park for Hello Kitty fans, with tickets around $26.

"An indoor Sanrio theme park for Hello Kitty fans, with tickets around $26."

A retro Japanese street near the Hikawa clock shop, with Mount Fuji framed at its end like a postcard.

"A retro Japanese street near the Hikawa clock shop, with Mount Fuji framed at its end like a postcar"

A small village where Mount Fuji's snowmelt feeds eight crystal-clear spring ponds.

"A small village where Mount Fuji's snowmelt feeds eight crystal-clear spring ponds."

A lakeside park at Lake Kawaguchi where colourful flowers bloom with Mount Fuji in the background.

"A lakeside park at Lake Kawaguchi where colourful flowers bloom with Mount Fuji in the background."

A Ginza luxury shopping complex where high-end fashion meets Japanese luxury.

"A Ginza luxury shopping complex where high-end fashion meets Japanese luxury."

A historic luxury department store in Ginza known for high-end fashion.

"A historic luxury department store in Ginza known for high-end fashion."

An aquarium at the base of Tokyo Skytree, recommended as a worthwhile add-on. Admission is about 2,500 yen.

"An aquarium at the base of Tokyo Skytree, recommended as a worthwhile add-on. Admission is about 2,5"

This shopping complex is one of Roppongi's main attractions.

"This shopping complex is one of Roppongi's main attractions."

This zoo in Ueno Park has Japanese snow monkeys, polar bears, Asiatic black bears and a gorilla exhibit full of character, where the host spent about 20 minutes.

"This zoo in Ueno Park has Japanese snow monkeys, polar bears, Asiatic black bears and a gorilla exhi"

A well-known bronze statue of the samurai Saigo Takamori inside Ueno Park.

"A well-known bronze statue of the samurai Saigo Takamori inside Ueno Park."

A tiny ramen shop up narrow stairs in Golden Gai where you order from an old-school ticket machine. It serves gigantic, perfectly spicy bowls that mix two kinds of noodles; expect a queue and bring cash.

"A tiny ramen shop up narrow stairs in Golden Gai where you order from an old-school ticket machine. "

A tiny Golden Gai bar lined with bookcases. The hosts tried Japanese whisky and its excellent sake-based sour here.

"A tiny Golden Gai bar lined with bookcases. The hosts tried Japanese whisky and its excellent sake-b"

A 2-hour sumo show where you get beer and a hot pot meal while veteran wrestlers demonstrate techniques and then fight three bouts. Audience members can put on sumo suits and wrestle at the end.

"A 2-hour sumo show where you get beer and a hot pot meal while veteran wrestlers demonstrate techniq"

A rooftop lounge on the top floor of the Tokyo Prince Park Tower hotel. Comfy couches face panoramic views of Tokyo Tower and the city.

"A rooftop lounge on the top floor of the Tokyo Prince Park Tower hotel. Comfy couches face panoramic"