Tokyo

Top Things to Do in Tokyo: A Walkable Route of Must-See Spots

You can let GeoQuestr guide you through the city as you learn more about these amazing places along the way.

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Tokyo is a city of contrasts — ancient temples next to neon-lit skyscrapers, tranquil gardens beside buzzing shopping streets. Below is a route-style list of stops you can follow through both the traditional and modern sides of this extraordinary city.

1. Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa — Tokyo's Oldest Temple

Start at Senso-ji in Asakusa, Tokyo's oldest and most visited temple. The Kaminarimon ("Thunder Gate") with its giant red lantern is one of the most iconic images of Japan.

Why it's worth it:

• Nakamise-dori shopping street leads up to the temple with traditional snacks
• The five-story pagoda and incense cauldron are stunning
• Early morning visits are peaceful before the crowds arrive

2. Ueno Park — Culture and Nature Together

Head to Ueno Park, a sprawling green space that's home to museums, a zoo, temples, and a lotus-covered pond. It's Tokyo's cultural heartland.

What to do here:

• The Tokyo National Museum has the world's largest collection of Japanese art
• Shinobazu Pond is beautiful in any season
• Street performers and food vendors line the main path

3. Akihabara — Electric Town

Walk south to Akihabara, the world capital of anime, manga, electronics, and gaming culture. Even if you're not a fan, the sheer energy of the district is unforgettable.

Don't miss:

• Multi-story arcades with retro and modern games
• Themed cafés that you won't find anywhere else
• The neon signs and narrow side streets after dark

4. Shibuya Crossing — The World's Busiest Intersection

Make your way to Shibuya Crossing, where up to 3,000 people cross at once when the lights change. It's controlled chaos at its most photogenic.

Good mini-plans:

• Watch from the Starbucks above for an aerial view
• Cross it yourself — it's a rush every time
• Hachiko statue outside the station is a touching local legend

5. Meiji Shrine & Harajuku — Sacred Meets Street

Walk through the towering torii gate into the forested grounds of Meiji Shrine, then step back out into the quirky fashion paradise of Harajuku. The contrast is pure Tokyo.

Why people love it:

• Meiji Shrine's forest feels like another world inside the city
• Takeshita Street in Harajuku is a sensory overload of color and style
• Omotesando Avenue nearby is Tokyo's answer to the Champs-Élysées

6. Shinjuku — The City That Never Sleeps (Add-On)

If you have evening energy, Shinjuku delivers. The skyscrapers of West Shinjuku, the neon chaos of Kabukicho, and the tiny bars of Golden Gai are all within walking distance.

Best for:

• The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building has a free observation deck
• Golden Gai's 200+ tiny bars are an experience in themselves
• Shinjuku Gyoen garden is a peaceful daytime alternative

Simple Day Plan (Works for Most Visitors)

1. Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa (morning)
2. Ueno Park (mid-morning)
3. Akihabara (lunch + explore)
4. Shibuya Crossing (afternoon)
5. Meiji Shrine & Harajuku (late afternoon)
6. Optional: Shinjuku (evening)

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