I have been living in Tokyo for over 3 years and created this guide to give something back to my readers. This guide should help you find unique things to do in the world’s largest metropolis. This guide includes everything, from drinking sake in cozy bars to sightseeing at temples and learning about the history. Tokyo offers a good travel experience for every budget, which is why some of the experiences mentioned are completely free. I cover over 20 incredible things that you can do in Tokyo. Some of them are commonly known, some are very secret. Tokyo has a lot to offer for everyone, old and young. I also wrote about delicious food and nightlife. Let’s explore the Japanese culture together!
In Japan, it is generally important to speak Japanese, even in Tokyo. The Japanese have one of the lowest English proficiency rates worldwide. That is why I also a guide to travel in Japan without knowing Japanese. In generally tourism will change a lot the next years in Japan. It is worth visiting Japan now!
1. Drink Habushu and Sake from Masu Boxes in Golden Gai
One of my favorite nightlife areas in Tokyo is Shinjuku, and especially Golden Gai. Golden Gai is known for its narrow alleys filled with tiny bars. These bars were yakuza bordels before the Japanese Government destroyed the mafia. But don’t worry, it is super safe now!
I recommend drinking whiskey, Japanese sake (Nihonshu, sake means just alcohol in Japanese), or the special Okinawan drink habushu. Habushu is a liquor made from distilled alcohol and a snake (habu) inside the bottle, so it is not suited for vegetarians or vegans. The snake itself has no taste; it is kind of a cultural thing.
Also, I recommend you to try Nihonshu, there are many kinds of it. One of the funny experiences I had in Golden Gai was that they overfilled my Nihonshu glass which was inside a masu box (a small wooden square cup), to show that they are not stingy.
Before heading into Golden Gai, stop by a standing bar (tachinomi) in Shinjuku. These no-seat bars are cheap, fast, and perfect for a quick drink and some food. Expect 300–600 yen drinks and a loud, local atmosphere.
One drink, one dish, then move on.
2. Visit Shrines and Temples: Senso-ji, Kakugo Inari Shrine & Gotokuji Temple
One thing I can really recommend is to do some cultural things while you are in Tokyo. If you are a fan of traditional Japanese architecture, I really recommend you to visit the Senso-ji in Asakusa. It is very famous for a reason.
If you think about Japanese culture, you may also think about the “Lucky cat” aka Maneki-Neko. There is a temple especially for the lucky cat, and it is called Gotokuji Shrine. I like this shrine, since it is a bit away from the crowd. Just ensure that you go there early in the morning if you are interested in buying one of the cats, which you can see in the photo above.
If you are currently in Giza, there is a temple on the top of the Ginza Six building. It is called Kakugo Inari Shrine and was originally at the place where they wanted to build the big shopping mall. Instead of destroying it, they put it on the rooftop. This temple is very tiny, but the view from there is stunning and you can take the best photos of the Uniqlo building.
3. Try Basashi: Japan’s Raw Horse Meat
In my home country, Switzerland, we eat horse meat. This is uncommon for a lot of people, especially German and British people. The Japanese also eat horse, but mostly raw. It is called basashi. It is served in tiny pieces and has a smooth and slightly sweet flavour. It is often paired with garlic, soy sauce, and wasabi. Sometimes you can also order Basashi Yukhoe, which is a Korean-style tartare. It is one of my favorite dishes in Tokyo, especially the tartare.
4. Visit Dogenzaka Church in Shibuya or other themed bars
Another good area for nightlife in Tokyo is Shibuya. Shibuya has a lot of Izakayas and nightclubs. Just go near the Shibuya crossing and explore the area. A more special Bar I can recommend in Shibuya is the Dogenzaka Church. For some, it might be a bit offensive, since it is a catholic church themed bar. It is called “The Church”. The music is different from day to day, so I recommend checking their website. During the week, it is free entrance, and during the weekend, 200 yen (but you are required to drink at least one drink for 800 yen). The girls working in nun dresses and on top there is a girls’ bar with burlesque shows.
There is also a monk-themed bar in Shinjuku near the Yotsuya station. It is called Vowz bar, and I was able to attend my own funeral. How scary! It was my first time in a coffin.
I also wrote a blog entry about a night out in Shibuya; if you are anywhere near there, it is maybe worth reading.
5. Eat Robatayaki: A Grilled Japanese Delight
A very traditional dining experience is robotayaki. This kind of cuisine includes a variety of meat, seafood/fish, and vegetables, which are grilled over an open flame. Pften in the middle, right in front of you. There are several robotoyaki restaurants in Tokyo. We had a very good experience in Nakano, where we ate last year for Valentinesday. We later returned there with my friend Jowey. The second time we ate upstairs, where you can’t see how they prepare your food. Even on the second time, it was still a good experience.
6. Take a JDM Tour in Tokyo: Daikoku PA
I guess everyone saw the Fast and Furious movie: Tokyo Drift. Even when this movie was made primarily outside of Japan with Korean and Chinese actors, it made me interested in the Japanese tuning scene. The JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) car culture is unique. Since it is quite hard to go to the Daikoku Parking Area by yourself, i recommend you book a tour. You will find more insights on the link I mentioned before. I visited the PA several times and was always amazed!
7. Visit the Making of Harry Potter Exhibit
Since I was a child, I have been a huge fan of Harry Potter. Tokyo actually has the biggest Making of Harry Potter worldwide. It is located at the Tokyo Fuji Art Museum and gives you insights you never seen before! My favorite attraction was the moving portraits. It really looks real! Or you can also try one of the iconic snacks or the butter beer.
8. Real LifeAnime Locations
I grew up with anime. For me, many of these series are part of my childhood. Especially the series Heidi (which is about the Swiss Alps), which is produced by Studio Ghibli, was very popular in Switzerland. Later, I continued with shonen like Naruto, One Piece, or Dragonball Z, which were played on RTL 2 during the day (dubbed in German). Many of the fameous animes are inspired by real world loctions. For example, the House of Saitama from One Punch Man exists in Setegaya and also the famous stairs from Your Name (Kimi no na wa) are inspired by a real-life location in Tokyo.
9. Dance in a Tokyo Nightclub: Womb, Camelot or Decabar
Tokyo has, in my opinion,n one of the best Nightlife worldwide. Mostly our nightouts start in an Izakaya (Japanese-style drinking restaurant), then we switch to a bar, and we end the night in a Nightclub. For a night that you won’t forget, head to Womb or Camelot, two famous nightclubs in Tokyo. Womb is famous for its amazing sound system, and Camelot is a bit more mainstream club. If you like it a bit crazier, Decabar could be your club. Depending on the evening, Decabar can be very kinky. Inform yourself beforehand.
10. Visit a Showclub in Tokyo
If you like something more relaxing than clubbing, I recommend a showclub. They are combining performance, music, and spectacle at once. Unlike regular nightclubs, these venues focus on live entertainment. One of the most famous spots is Tantra Tokyo, located in Roppongi. The performers are skilled dancers and are creating an atmosphere that’s both classy and bold. Tantra, for example, also has a Karaoke bar. I uploaded several videos about Tantra, go and check them out on my channel.
In showclubs, you are able to sit and relax. Just enjoy the show.
11. Visit Girls Bars or Theme Coffee Shops
Japan has a special bar kind, which doesn’t really exist in other countries. These bars are called girls’ bars. They are basically a normal bar with all you can drink, just one woman is always talking to you. Mostly in Japanese! Be aware that different bars exist. Some look like prostitution (but they are never illegal), and others like the Muscle Girls Bar in Ikebukuro, are very serious. In this muscle bar, women serve drinks and exercise in front of you. It is all you can drink for 30 mins to 80 mins (depending on what you are booking). Additional you can pay them to get slaps, ass kicks, or other activities. Buy it for your friends ;). Alternatively, if you prefer a more mellow atmosphere, there are themed coffee shops like those with animal themes or the Maid Cafes in Akihabara.
12. Eat in an Izakaya
If you visit Japan, you should try an izakaya for dinner. It is a Japanese-style pub, which offers a variety of small dishes and often cheap drinks. I often start my night outs in an izakaya with friends. You basically find them everywhere. Especially famous is Suginami-ku for its izakayas. I lived in Ogikubo and Koenji, and both of them have some of the best restaurants I’ve ever visited. In between of them is Asagaya, which also has amazing restaurants. Be aware that in some Izakayas they are serving raw chicken, so better avoid that. One recommended (for Kill Bill fans) izakaya is Gonpachi Nishiazabu, famously known as the inspiration for the iconic Kill Bill fight scene. This izakaya is located in Roppongi, just 20 mins away from the station. Take your time and explore Roppongi a bit before you go there. It has a lot of foreigners, especially Americans, since it is very near the US Embassy. My first time was because of the movie, the 2nd nd 3th time, because I liked their food.
13. Drink from a “Beer Boot” at Japan’s Oldest Beer Hall: Ginza Lion (7-chome)
If you want the soul of Ginza, head to the first floor of the Ginza Lion Beer Hall (7-chome). As a Swiss expat, I’ve seen many beer halls, but this “Old Hall” is a miracle. Built in 1934, it’s a “Beer Cathedral” that survived the WWII air raids. The interior features high ceilings and a massive mosaic made of 250 shades of glass.
The highlight here is the Bierstiefel (The Glass Boot). It’s rare even in Switzerland, and in Japan, it’s a total novelty. Since many locals stick to small beers, ordering a boot makes you instantly the hero of the hall. People will stop and stare with respect! It is also worth to check my Japanese Beer guide.
14. Visit Hidden Gardens: Koishikawa Korakuen, Shinjuku Gyoen, or Kokyo Gaien
Tokyo may be known for its skyscrapers and bustling streets, but it also has many serene gardens that provide a peaceful retreat. Koishikawa Korakuen is a hidden gem, less known to tourists, and offers a tranquil space with beautiful views. I had my first date with my Fiancée in this garden, which is why it has a special place in my heart. Shinjuku Gyoen is another excellent option. It is my favorite location to see the Japanese cherry blossom. Also, one of the only places where you get a student discount in Japan. Mostly Student discount is defined by age and not your actual status Kokyo Gaien National Garden is ideal for a leisurely walk, offering stunning views of the Imperial Palace. I recommend here to rent one of the boats during the cherry blossom season. You have to reserve at double the price, or wake up very early and wait.
15. Best Day Trips from Tokyo: Kawagoe, Kamakura, Odawara & More
If you have time during your stay, doing at least one day trip from Tokyo is highly recommended. While Tokyo itself has endless things to do, stepping outside the city gives you a completely different perspective on Japan.
One of the easiest and most rewarding options is Kawagoe, often called “Little Edo.” Located less than an hour from Tokyo, it offers traditional streets, historic temples like Kita-in, and local food specialties such as sweet potato snacks. Compared to other destinations, Kawagoe feels more relaxed and less overwhelming, making it perfect for a slower travel day.
👉 I wrote a full Kawagoe travel guide that covers the best things to do, hidden spots, and what to eat.
Another popular option is Kamakura, known for its many temples and the famous Great Buddha statue. It is closer to the coast and has a slightly more touristy feel, especially on weekends, but the mix of history and nature makes it worth visiting. If you continue further, Enoshima Island is a great addition, offering ocean views, caves, and fresh seafood.
If you are interested in castles and samurai history, Odawara Castle is a great choice. It provides insight into Japan’s feudal era and is often combined with a trip to Hakone.
For thrill-seekers, Fuji-Q Highland is one of the best amusement parks in Japan. Located near Lake Kawaguchi at the foot of Mount Fuji, it is home to some of the world’s most famous roller coasters, including Fujiyama, Eejanaika, and Takabisha. On clear days, you can enjoy incredible views of Mount Fuji directly from the park. Even if you are not interested in roller coasters, Fuji-Q offers anime attractions, one of the world’s largest haunted houses, and excellent photo opportunities. I recommend combining Fuji-Q Highland with a visit to Lake Kawaguchi or Chureito Pagoda for a full-day Mount Fuji experience.
16. Eat Sushi in a High-Class Restaurant: Fukuzushi in Roppongi is my recommendation
Tokyo is home to some of the best sushi in the world, and if you’re looking for a high-class sushi experience, look no further than Roppongi’s Fukuzushi. This hidden gem offers an intimate, top-tier sushi dining experience where you can enjoy fresh, expertly prepared sushi that’s sure to leave you speechless. Reservations can be made here. I have special memories of this restaurant, since my fiancée reserved it for my birthday present in 2024. It was clearly the best meal I’ve ever had in Tokyo. It is with 33’000 yen per person, definitely on the more expensive side in Tokyo, but for me it was 100% worth. The chef does not speak English, but his wife speaks English very well. And their daughter studied at Waseda, like me too!
17. Watch a Japanese Baseball Game
For sports fans, watching a Japanese baseball game is a must. Tokyo is home to two major teams: the Tokyo Yakult Swallows and the Yomiuri Giants. Attending a game at the Tokyo Dome or Meiji Jingu Stadium is an exciting way to experience Japanese sports culture. The atmosphere at these games is electric, with cheerleaders, fan chants, and a level of energy that’s hard to find anywhere else. I’ve visited with my father a game at the stadium in Yokohama. The Yomiuri Giants from Tokyo were playing on this day. It was raining, but we still had fun. Don’t forget to bring cash, since the beer girls only accept cash. You can still buy beer downstairs with a credit card, but you always have to go down.
18. Summer Bon Odori or Hanabi Fireworks Festival
If you’re visiting Tokyo in the summer, be sure to catch a bon odori (traditional dance) or a hanabi (fireworks) festival. There are several good festivals, my favorites are the Bon Odori in Nakano, Koenji, and Ebisu. These festivals are the only reason to visit Japan during the summer, since it is very hot and humid.
19. Eat Wagyu: A Must-Try Japanese Beef Experience
Wagyu beef is a luxury food item you must try during your Tokyo visit. For a unique twist, try gyukatsu, a breaded and fried wagyu steak, which is served with rice, cabbage, and dipping sauces. My secret tip for the best gyukatsu is Gyukatsu Aona, where you can savor the flavor of premium wagyu beef like never before. I appreciate the option to receive the beef uncooked, allowing for personalized cooking preferences.
20. Try Daifuku: Sweet Japanese Treats
No visit to Japan is complete without sampling daifuku, a chewy rice cake stuffed with sweet fillings, often red bean paste or strawberries. These little treats are perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth, and you can find them at many wagashi (traditional Japanese sweet shops) around Tokyo. Daifuku is, from all the deserts in Japan, my all-time favorite. I like the Matcha and Chocolate versions filled with a strawberry.
21. Eating Fugu: Japan’s Famous Pufferfish
For the daring, fugu (pufferfish) is an unforgettable culinary experience. This potentially deadly fish is prepared by specially licensed chefs, and eating it is a thrilling and safe way to experience one of Japan’s most famous delicacies. Tokyo offers several high-end restaurants where you can enjoy fugu sashimi or hot pot dishes prepared with this iconic fish. Read about our Fugu Experience in Osaka in our other post. Honestly, I was very scared in the beginning, but after checking it online, I realized it is very safe. All of the deaths come from amateurs, who grill it at home.
22. Fireworks in Tokyo: A Summer Tradition
During the summer, I often attend 2-3 hanabi (fireworks) festivals in Tokyo. The most famous is the Sumida River Festival, but it is very crowded. I made a video on my youtube channel on how to avoid the crowd at this festival. I also visited in 2024 the Itabashi Fireworks with my fiancée and a friend. If you come last minute, it is very crowded, and the Japanese try to drive through this crowd.
These festivals capture the essence of Tokyo’s summer energy, combining fireworks, tradition, and celebration.
23. Watch an Illumination in Tokyo
There are many Illuminations in Tokyo. Some of them are seasonal, and some are for the full year. The biggest worldwide is the illumination at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku. In the beginning, I did not like it that much, but now they made some effort, and it looks way better. They adjusted the visuals to the building. During the winter, I can recommend visiting several places to see the winter illuminations in Asakusa or in Roppongi.
24. Experience the Unique Culture of a Maid Cafe
If you want to experience one of Japan’s most famous “Galapagos” subcultures, you have to visit a Maid Cafe, especially in Akihabara. These are themed cafes where the waitresses dress in maid costumes and treat you as the “master” or “mistress” of the house.
It is much more than just getting a coffee; it is a full performance. When your food arrives—usually something cute like an omelet rice (omurice)—the maid will draw a picture on it with ketchup, like a cat or a heart. You will also be asked to perform a “magic spell” together, like the famous “Moe Moe Kyun,” to make the food taste more delicious.
While it might feel a bit “kawaii” (cute) or even slightly awkward at first for Europeans, it is a very harmless and fun part of Tokyo’s pop culture. Just remember that in most cafes, you are not allowed to take photos of the maids themselves unless you pay for a “Cheki” (a Polaroid photo with them). I recommend going at least once just to see the high energy and the dedication to the theme!
25. Walk the “Pedestrian Paradises” (Hokousha Tengoku)
One of my absolute favorite things to do on a weekend is to visit a Tokyo Pedestrian Paradise, known locally as Hokousha Tengoku or “Hokoten.” This is when the city’s busiest main roads in Ginza, Akihabara, and Shinjuku completely close to vehicles, giving the asphalt back to the people.
My fiancée and I love these times because the “Tokyo Shuffle”—that constant bumping of shoulders on crowded sidewalks—disappears. It makes shopping feel sophisticated and relaxed rather than stressful.
- Ginza (Chuo-dori): This is the gold standard. They put out tables and chairs with parasols right in the middle of the street. We usually grab a coffee and just sit in the center of the road to people-watch. It’s the best way to see the luxury district.
- Akihabara: The main “Electric Town” strip becomes a massive open-air plaza. Without cars, you can finally step back and truly appreciate the scale of the massive neon signs and anime billboards.
- Shinjuku: Located on the East Side, it turns the chaotic area around Isetan and Bic Camera into a peaceful stroll.
Local Tip: These events usually happen on Sundays (and Saturdays in Ginza). During the summer (April–Sept), the streets stay closed until 6:00 PM, which is perfect for catching the “Golden Hour” light for photos before heading to dinner. It is a completely free experience and one of those local secrets that makes living here so special.
26. Visit One of Tokyo’s Cultural Festivals
During the year, there are many unique festivals in Tokyo. There is almost every day one. I love to attend from time to time and also write about them. You have to be lucky that your traveling date aligns with one of them.
Oiran Festival in Shinagawa
Prostitution is illegal in Japan, and this means that there are no Oiran anymore. This parade features Japanese women who cosplay as an Oiran. This vibrant parade offers a glimpse into the Edo period.
Bakeneko Festival in Kagurazaka
An event which starts the Halloween period in Tokyo. People, Japanese and also foreigners, dress as supernatural cats from Japanese folklore and dance along the streets. You can buy yourself cat ears at every Donki in Tokyo. This helps you to better blend in.
Yomiuriland Jewellumination
An immersive winter event featuring 6.5 million gemstone-colored LEDs designed by Motoko Ishii. It is a world-class art installation where the entire amusement park is draped in “jewels.” While adults come for the panoramic views from the Sky Shuttle, kids love the interactive Horror House mission where they have to return a teddy bear to a ghost. It’s the perfect high-energy alternative to the city-center crowds, combining high-speed rollercoasters with the most technologically advanced light show in Tokyo.
Uenode Panda Spring Festival
A lively Lunar New Year celebration held at Ueno Park’s Fountain Square that beautifully blends Chinese and Japanese cultures. While crowds gather for the incredible “gachi-chūka” (authentic regional Chinese street food) and traditional face-changing henmen performances, the heart of the event remains deeply tied to Ueno’s most famous residents. Read my full guide to the emotional milestones of this event.
27. Experience the “Weird” Side of Tokyo
Tokyo might look perfect on the surface, but once you stay longer, you start noticing the strange and fascinating details that make the city truly unique.
One thing that surprises many people is how normal it is to see people sleeping in public. Late at night, you’ll spot salarymen passed out on sidewalks, benches, or even in train stations. It’s not dangerous, it’s just part of the culture, often after long workdays and nights out.
While most nights end with a quiet train ride home, some dive into a much more intense side of the city. If you want to see how deep the rabbit hole goes, check out my guide on extreme Japanese nightlife experiences, from the high-energy Muscle Girl Bar to the professional discipline of Shinjuku’s underground SM bars.
Then there’s the food.
Tokyo is one of the best food cities in the world, but it also has some of the most unusual dishes you’ll ever come across. From raw horse meat (basashi) to wasabi ice cream or even fermented soybeans (natto), trying “bizarre” food becomes part of the adventure.
Even everyday things can feel strange at first. Vending machines sell almost anything, social rules are often unspoken, and some experiences feel completely different from what you’re used to in Europe.
Many tourists arrive with expectations shaped by viral internet content, but the reality of daily life is often far more nuanced. I also wrote a detailed guide about common Japan travel myths and the truth behind many stereotypes tourists believe before visiting the country.
These moments might feel weird at first, but that’s exactly what makes Tokyo so interesting.
It’s not just about the famous sights, it’s about the little cultural shocks that turn into unforgettable memories.
28. Master the Art of Tokyo Shopping (for Women)
While the city is a global fashion capital, the shopping experience involves unique cultural standards and logistical quirks that are important to understand. For a deep dive into specific districts and sizing charts, you can check out my full Tokyo Fashion Guide.
- Japanese Sizing Realities: Clothing in Japan is significantly smaller and more restrictive than in the West. A Japanese “Medium” often fits like a Western “Small,” and many trend-focused boutiques offer very limited ranges for larger or athletic builds.
- The “Free Size” Rule: Many popular labels only produce “F” (Free Size) garments. Despite the name, these are typically cut for a slender, petite silhouette.
- Bra & Lingerie Scaling: Japanese lingerie is famous for intricate designs, but cup sizes run small. Most people need to go up one or two cup sizes compared to US/UK standards to get the right fit.
- Immaculate Vintage: Tokyo’s second-hand culture is unique because items are often in “like-new” condition. Neighborhoods like Koenji and Shimokitazawa are hubs for high-quality, meticulously cared-for pieces.
- Pedestrian Paradises: On Sundays, major roads in Ginza and Akihabara close to cars. These “Hokoten” events turn busy streets into open-air plazas, making shopping feel relaxed rather than stressful.
- Fitting Room Etiquette: Always remove your shoes before stepping onto the raised platform of a fitting room. Shops also frequently provide face covers to ensure makeup doesn’t stain the clothing while you try it on.
29. Places to Avoid
- Joypolis: It is a bit outdated. And I did not enjoyed at all.
- Omoide Yokocho: Overrated and crowded, not worth the hype. It is just a tourist spot to take photos.
- Raw Chicken Restaurants: Avoid these for health and safety reasons. I still sometimes prank my friends.
- Ginza Art Aquarium: The tanks for the goldfish are way too small.
I love to live in Tokyo, since it is a mix of the world’s most mixed culture. The food and the nightlife are great, and there are plenty of options to study the history of Japan. While some areas of Japan experience moments of overtourism during peak seasons, most communities continue to welcome visitors who explore the country with respect. I always welcome people in Tokyo, and the people are more open-minded than in the countryside. But I also recommend you to go and see the countryside of Japan, since it is calmer and more relaxed.
Exploring beyond Tokyo not only helps distribute tourism more sustainably but also gives you the chance to understand Japan more deeply. There are many historic towns or hot spring villages. For me, it is a different feeling to be in a hotspring on the countryside than in a big city. For me, Onsen is not only hot water, but it is also the mood, seeing nature, and spending a good, relaxed time together.