Curator’s statement
With 37 million people and endless energy, Tokyo is a travel experience like no other. Whether you want to dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant—Tokyo has the most out of any city!—or test your timing at the world's busiest train station, adventure begins and ends in Japan’s capital.
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Where to stay in Tokyo
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Things to do in Tokyo
Tsukiji Fish Market
While the tuna auction has been relocated, the Tsukiji Fish Market still offers some of the best tastes available in Tokyo. Fresh sushi, wagyu beef, local vegetables, and more can be found across the 900+ stalls of the market.
Shibuya Sky
If you are lucky enough to get a reserved time for sunset, this observatory offers the most beautiful views of Tokyo. Take the escalator up to the highest point to get a 360-degree view of Tokyo Tower, Mt. Fuji, Tokyo Skytree, and many more points of interest.
Gōtokuji Temple
The birthplace of the maneki-neko, this temple contains thousands of beckoning cat figures. Buy one to bring home as a souvenir after touring the grounds, or leave one behind as a wish for good luck.
Day trip to Mt. Fuji
On a clear day, there is no sight like Mt. Fuji. Visit the villages near the base to enjoy the local cuisine with a view of the largest mountain in Japan.
teamLab Planets
This interactive art museum utilizes digital effects to transport you onto a new planet. Whether it’s trekking through rooms entirely filled with water or ducking under thousands of orchids in the floating flower garden, there is no experience like teamLab.
Tokyo National Museum
Discover thousands of cultural treasures at Japan’s oldest and largest museum. Located in the heart of Ueno Park, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering through centuries of Japanese history.
Pokémon Center
Visit any Tokyo Pokémon Center to relive your childhood memories. Check out the Shibuya location to see Mewtwo’s vat on display.
Art Aquarium Museum GINZA
The most artistic aquarium in the world crafts an immersive experience with stunning displays of over 5,000 goldfish. Witness moving art in an extraordinary atmosphere.
Shibuya Scramble
This iconic crosswalk sees more pedestrians than any other crossing on this planet. Whether you are joining the other 3,000 others moving through the scramble, or watching the motion from a building above, this experience is truly unique.
Places to eat & drink in Tokyo
Shinjuku Golden-Gai
This nightlife district features over 200 intimate bars that all exude a different theme and vibe. Some seat only a few people, making it a great way to meet other travelers and locals.
513BAKERY
This small bakery located close to Tsukiji Station prioritizes substance over style. Combining sweet and savory offerings, this is a stop on your itinerary that has something for everyone.
Ko Sushi
Tucked away on the perimeter of Shinjuku, this small local sushi spot transforms the city’s neon chaos into an intimate, welcoming dining haven. For the best dining experience, sit at the sushi bar, where you can watch the itamae perfect their craft.
Yakiniku Motoyama
Fulfill your Wagyu cravings at Yakiniku Motoyama, where you can grill a massive variety of premium cuts right at your table. If you’re looking to sample a little bit of everything, order the Wagyu Benkei, which features skirt steak, beef thigh, tri-tip, top blade, and chuck flap.
Age.3 GINZA
While crowded and becoming a bit touristy, this fried sandwich counter is well worth the wait. Fried bread and whipped cream shouldn't be this good, but they just are. Try the matcha or crème brûlée sandwiches, or stick with the classic whipped cream.
Rocky Top
This might be the one venue in Tokyo that has live bluegrass music every night. If you’re looking for American culture over an ice-cold highball, this is your spot.
Café Paulista
Japan has amazing tea, but if you’re looking to satisfy your coffee fix and add some history to your itinerary, check out Café Paulista. As one of the oldest cafés in Tokyo, it has served everyone from Albert Einstein to John Lennon. Maybe you’re next.
Micasadeco & Cafe Jingumae
Another heavily visited establishment, this pancake house is very much worth the hype. Get there early and be prepared to wait for your soufflé pancakes to cook. Dive headfirst into the fluff euphoria, but remember to take a picture first.
Need to know
Tokyo’s train system is among the most efficient in the world and you can always count on it to be on time. However, many lines stop operating around midnight for maintenance, so ensure you have a plan to get home if you aren't within walking distance. For the smoothest experience, pick up a Suica or Pasmo card at the airport. It's the easiest way to pay for trains, vending machines, and even convenience stores.
Book experiences well in advance. Many activities sell out fast and have a small booking window just a few weeks before the desired date. Find out when those windows open and make sure you set alarms accordingly.
Take your hotel booking location very seriously when building your itinerary. Tokyo is massive and you don’t want to spend your entire day traveling back and forth to different places within the city. It's well worth staying in multiple spots in Tokyo throughout the trip and coordinating different activities in those specific areas each day.
Be respectful and don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Even with a language barrier, you'll find that Japanese people are incredibly kind and eager to assist. Just remember that you are a guest, so take care to respect the local customs and traditions.
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Michael Stein
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