Things to do in Tokyo

Ginza

In this premier shopping district, there’s more than what meets the eye. Find a local who can take you to the shops that visitors usually miss for street clothing, casual wear, and more styles. You can learn about Tokyo's trends and local brand names you won't easily find elsewhere.

Harajuku and Aoyama

Bright and cheery fashion and kawaii (“cute”) shops abound on Takeshita Street, and you can find the best places to shop with a local who knows the area best on a fashion street tour. Along the way you can also stop to enjoy snacks and street art. People watching is a must here, where it’s like a non-stop street fashion show.

Shibuya

After doing the “Shibuya scramble” at Shibuya Crossing, check out this lively district for some of the latest trends, where you’ll see groups of friends posing in DIY photo shoots and people hopping shop to shop for underground and affordable apparel.

Whether it’s a Michelin-star meal atop a highrise, or an order of onigiri at Tokyo Station, you could spend years dining your way through this city and only scratch the surface. Here is a quick guide to unique experiences to try if you want to eat like a local in Tokyo.

Dine in the Ueno district

This cultural hotspot is home to many museums, Ueno Zoological Gardens, Shinobazu Lake, among other sites. It’s also where you can find some of the best food in the city according to locals. Join food tours to try sushi, skewers, ramen, and more in the taverns and restaurants here.

Learn to make sushi in a sushi bar

Try your hand at various sushi techniques inside a sushi bar. You can learn the history and techniques used to perfect this iconic Japanese food and get to try your creations at the end.

Bike and eat in West Tokyo

Delve into the eclectic local neighborhoods of Nakano, Koenji and Asagaya on bikes with a local guide who takes you on a tour of the area’s street food. Pedal your way through backstreets to find unique attractions, as well as a relaxing ride along the trails of the Zenpukiji River.

Take a tour of Tsukiji Outer Market

In the heart of the city, you’ll find the Nihonbashi neighborhood, home to Japan’s oldest department store and the world-famous Tsukiji Outer Market. Join a local guide to try some of the best food in the market, where you may get lucky and meet vendors within the market to learn more about the food and wares you see. Tip: Be sure to bring cash if you want to shop — many businesses don’t accept cards.