Japan is known as one of the most interesting countries in the world, and what better place to start exploring than the capital? From Otaku culture and quirky places to go-karting and one-of-a-kind experiences, there are plenty of unique things to do in Tokyo.
With countless activities to choose from, we’ve narrowed it down to city-exclusive and one-of-a-kind favourites that best cater to your interests, budget, and length of stay in Tokyo.
Here are the top 15 things to do in Tokyo that you absolutely must try.
Experiences you can only get in Tokyo
1. Get your cute on at Sanrio Puroland
Land of all things Sanrio!
No other country does “cute” quite like Japan, and when it comes to kawaii, Sanrio Puroland reigns all.
Just a half-hour train ride from Shinjuku Station, you’ll find this adorable indoor theme park perfect for any day. It’s the number one destination for all things Sanrio, from themed rides and meet-and-greets with your favorite characters to live performances and so much more!
For the Hello Kitty kittylers, Cinnamaroll club, kids (and kids at heart!), you’ll definitely enjoy a day trip to this wonderland.
2. Immerse in true Tokyo pop culture in a maid café
Kawaii culture at Maidreamin cafe in Akihabara, Tokyo
When it comes to themed cafes, Tokyo knows how to keep the standard high. And there’s no better way to get a taste of Japanese pop culture than dining in an authentic maid cafe.
Located in Akihabara, the heart of anime, manga, and cosplay, this Maid Café experience in Maidreamin is easily among the most unique things to do in Tokyo. Enjoy kawaii desserts served by staff in maid costumes, enjoy a live performance, and get a chance to take a commemorative photo with your maid host!
3. Race through the streets with a go-karting experience
Mario Kart, but make it real life!
When it comes to unique Tokyo experiences, Go Karting in Akihabara is definitely a one-of-a-kind experience worth trying at least once in your life.
You’ll need a valid international driving permit or a Japanese driver’s license, but driving up to 60km/hour with friends (led by a professional, of course) while dressed in colorful onesies is certainly the most thrilling way to explore the city.
4. Tokyo drift your way in a GT-R night city tour
Night riders passing through the illuminated Odaiba Rainbow Bridge!
Speaking of driving and cool experiences in Tokyo—if you’ve ever watched The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, here’s your chance to live it. Hop on a Tokyo GT-R Night Tour and ride a supercar through the city’s highways and tunnels, just like in the movie.
You’ll also get the chance to see sights like the illuminated Red Tokyo Tower and Odaiba Rainbow Bridge. For our fellow car enthusiasts, you’ll definitely enjoy the beautiful cars at the Daikoku Parking Area.
5. Hop on a Yakatabune cruise along Tokyo Bay
A traditional Japanese houseboat sailing through Tokyo Bay
If fast cars aren’t your thing, or you simply want to slow things down at the end of a busy day, check out the Tokyo Bay Cruise: Unique Yakatabune Boat. Here, you’ll board a traditional Japanese houseboat with complimentary dinner, drinks, and skyline views across Tokyo Bay.
6. Try eating puffer fish
Chefs actually have to take a written and practical examination to be able to cook and serve puffer fish.
If the thought of trying puffer fish brings to mind that one episode on The Simpsons when Homer was poisoned after eating blowfish, then you might be a little put-off by this suggestion. It’s certainly a dish that comes with a reputation.
But the chefs at Guenpin Fugu: The Puffer Fish Specialist, are true licensed masters of their craft. Rest assured, all dishes are expertly and carefully prepared, and once you’ve lived to tell the tale, you’ll be sharing a story of one of the most unique things to do in Tokyo, Japan, and all over the world.
How many people can say they’ve mustered the courage to try this exquisite delicacy?
7. Watch a sumo wrestling show
Sumo wrestlers in action!
There is nothing in the world quite like Japan’s national sport, and watching a live Sumo Show in Tokyo is definitely a must! These athletes have been entertaining crowds for over 1,500 years and are widely revered for their amazing skills. Plus, you may even get the chance to try out some of their moves after being taught by the experts themselves!
8. Find good luck at Gotokuji Temple
Rows and rows of maneki-neko, the lucky cat!
For a slice of the more traditional side of Tokyo, Gotokuji Temple is one of Tokyo’s most charming hidden gems, tucked away in the quiet Setagaya neighborhood.
If you’ve roamed around enough shops and cafes in Japan, chances are you’ve stumbled across one (or few) cat figurines, called the maneki-neko (or beckoning cat). Well, this temple is known as its birthplace, filled with rows of these lucky cat figurines left behind by visitors.
9. Witness your favorite Studio Ghibli film come to life
The whimsical entrance to the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo, Japan
Ghibli fans, feed your whimsy with a visit to the Ghibli Museum! Dedicated to the films produced by renowned Japanese director, artist, screenwriter, and museum designer Hayao Miyazaki, the entire experience is the definition of magical, with special exhibits that bring elements from the movies to life.
You’ll also find the Saturn Theater inside, where you can enjoy a viewing of Studio Ghibli short films that can’t be seen anywhere else. How special!
Klook Tip: Taking photos and videos is not allowed inside the museum, but there are plenty of picture-friendly attractions outside.
10. Get lost in Otaku culture at Nakano
Entrance to the Nakano Broadway shopping complex in Tokyo
Our dear Otaku besties, we see you, we hear you! For all things anime, manga, and otaku culture, Nakano Broadway Tokyo is the place to go. While Akihabara is the usual place to spot, Nakano offers a more laid-back vibe.
You can find everything from pop culture, vintage Mandarake shops, and cosplay items to retro games and even underground local food options. Complete your collection with unique collectibles and rare figurines that you can’t find at any regular store.
11. Walk in the fashionable streets of Harajuku
Harajuku, the heart of Tokyo’s fashion scene / Photo credits: Dale Cruse on Flickr
If you think you know fashion, you haven’t seen anything yet until you’ve strolled the streets of Harajuku. Prepare to be amazed by the eccentric outfits of locals and foreigners alike. You’ll also be wowed by colourful and outlandish snacks and treats you won’t resist taking a bite of.
Want to join in on the fun? Takeshita Street is lined with the coolest shops, from underground vintage stores to aesthetic fashion boutiques. There’s a store for every style at Harajuku, so you can buy your dream wardrobe!
12. Exploring hidden gems at Ikekuburo
Crosswalks at Ikebukuro, Tokyo / Photo credit: Stéfan Le Dû on Flickr
Ikebukuro is often overlooked, but if you need to switch gears, it’s a great place to explore unique things to do in Tokyo without the overwhelming crowds. It’s also a great base to stay in Tokyo, with Ikebukuro Station as a major transport hub.
From shopping at Sunshine City to niche experiences like quirky bars and animal cafes, an Ikebukuro tour is a fun, slightly offbeat addition to your Tokyo itinerary.
13. Spend a day at the happiest place at Tokyo DisneySea
The Mysterious Island at Tokyo DisneySea
You might’ve visited other Disney parks, but Tokyo DisneySea is unlike any other resort in the world. Yes, it’s popular and one of the most visited attractions in Japan, but it’s still on our list of unique things to do in Tokyo because it truly sets itself apart from other parks.
Every detail is beautiful and realistic, with a magical atmosphere that can be enjoyed by anyone of any age.
14. Buy anything from the quirkiest vending machines
Vending machines in a Tokyo alleyway / Photo credit: Diana Nguyen on Pexels.
Surprise yourself with what you’ll find at the most unconventional vending machines in Japan and in the world. You can get anything from ramen, bath bombs, flowers, and so much more. If it’s not the interesting items inside, it’s the wonderful exteriors of the machines that will catch your eye!
15. Join an all-you-can-drink saké tour
If you’re touring alone, this is the best place to make new friends over drinks
Sure, drinking saké is not unique to Tokyo, but an All-You-Can-Drink Saké Tour certainly is! With over 100 different types of saké to choose from, you can indulge in as many cups as you would like for up to 5 hours, and also learn about the origins and how it’s produced.
Our advice? Jump on the group chat right now, because this is one all your friends will want to join in on. After all, you can’t leave Japan without a classic night out, right?
FAQs
What is the unique thing to do in Tokyo?
There’s definitely a lot! Some of our Tokyo-exclusive favorites include watching a live sumo match, go-karting on city streets, dining at a maid cafe, and exploring both cultural and modern sights.
What should we not miss in Tokyo?
Don’t miss Tokyo’s top experiences like seeing the Senso-ji Temple, Shibuya Crossing, Red Tokyo Tower, and exploring subculture spots in Akihabara and Nakano Broadway.
Where are the hidden gems in Tokyo?
Tokyo’s hidden gems include neighborhoods like Ikebukuro and Nakano Broadway, and the thousands of beckoning cats at Gotokuji Temple.
What are unique places to visit in Tokyo?
Unique places in Tokyo include the Gotokuji Temple, Harajuku Street, and the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka.
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Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler.
Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
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