Tokyo Travel Guide: The Best Things To Do In Tokyo, Japan!

Tokyo Travel Guide: The Best Things To Do In Tokyo, Japan!

What if I told you there’s a city where 
trains apologize for being 54 seconds late, where robots make your coffee, and where the subway map looks more complicated than 
your family tree? Welcome to Tokyo: a city that shouldn’t work but somehow becomes 
the most addictive place you’ll ever visit. Did you know that Tokyo has more 
Michelin stars than Paris, New York, and London combined? Over 15 million 
visitors discover this city each year, and here’s the kicker—an incredible 94% say 
they’re coming back. From watching sumo wrestlers grab breakfast at 7-Eleven to finding peace in a 
400-year-old temple right next to a Pokemon store, Tokyo isn’t just a city—it’s every city 
you’ve ever imagined, all playing at once. By the end of this video, you’ll know 
exactly how to navigate this incredible metropolis—from scoring reservations at Den 
(voted Asia’s best restaurant) to finding the best viewing spot at the Shibuya Crossing. So 
grab your virtual passport, and let’s explore why Tokyo isn’t just another stop on your 
bucket list—it’s practically the whole bucket! You might’ve heard people say Tokyo is a city 
of contrasts, but that’s like saying Mount Fuji is just a hill! Let’s break down what 
makes this city so mind-bendingly unique. First up, there are over 1,400 temples and shrines 
scattered throughout Tokyo! The iconic Senso-ji in Asakusa draws millions with its massive 
red lantern, while the serene Meiji Shrine offers 175 acres of forest right in the 
middle of the city. But here’s the kicker: they’re not just tourist attractions. Hit up 
the beautiful Nezu Shrine early in the morning, and you’ll see suited-up business 
executives stopping for a quick prayer before heading to their high-rise 
offices in nearby Roppongi Hills. And speaking of traditions, while 
Tokyo is racing toward the future, it’s keeping ancient arts alive like they’re 
the latest TikTok trend. At Happo-en Garden, you can experience a traditional tea 
ceremony in a 150-year-old teahouse. Or head to the Origami Kaikan in Ochanomizu, 
where you can watch master craftsmen turn simple paper into art so complex that NASA’s 
using similar techniques to design spacecraft! But the Tokyo pop culture scene is where it 
gets really interesting. Takeshita Street in Harajuku isn’t just a fashion district; it’s 
like stepping into a real-life anime. One minute, you’re browsing kawaii fashion 
at KAWAII Monster Café; the next, you’re discovering vintage treasures at Flamingo, all while street performers in outlandish 
outfits turn the sidewalk into their stage. And don’t even get me started on Akihabara or 
“Electric Town.” Super Potato is gaming heaven, with eight floors of retro games and consoles. 
The massive Yodobashi Camera complex sells electronics that won’t hit the rest of the 
world for another five years. And spots like the SEGA Building and Gundam Factory 
Yokohama bring your favorite anime to life! Let’s dive into what might be 
Tokyo’s most mind-blowing feature: its absolutely legendary food scene. Did you 
know that Tokyo has over 200 Michelin-starred restaurants? We’re talking about game-changers 
like Narisawa in Minami-Aoyama (2 Michelin stars), the legendary Sukiyabashi Jiro 
in Ginza, and L’Effervescence, where Chef Shinobu Namae blends French and 
Japanese cuisine in ways that’ll blow your mind! But here’s the real kicker, some of the best food 
in Tokyo isn’t even in fancy restaurants. Take Ramen Street in Tokyo Station, where Rokurinsha 
serves their legendary tsukemen (dipping ramen) to lines that form hours before opening. Or hit 
up Fuunji in Shinjuku, where their chicken-based tsukemen has reached cult status. And if you’re 
ready for the best tonkotsu ramen of your life, Nakiryu (with its own Michelin star!) will 
change how you think about noodle soup forever. Want to experience something truly unique? Head 
to the basement food halls (depachika) of major department stores. The Isetan Shinjuku 
depachika is basically food heaven, while Daimaru Tokyo in Tokyo Station 
will make you question everything you thought you knew about food halls. We’re 
talking about perfectly crafted wagyu beef croquettes at Kinokuniya and those 
famous $200 crown melons at Sembikiya! And just when you think you’ve seen 
it all, Tokyo throws another culinary curveball at you. The Robot Restaurant in 
Shinjuku serves up entertainment with your meal, while Zauo Fishing Restaurant lets you 
catch your own fish before they cook it! For something quieter but equally unique, 
try the Owl Cafe MOHUMOHU in Harajuku or the famous Kawaii Monster Cafe for the 
most Instagram-worthy meals of your life. Here’s something that’ll blow your mind: 
even the convenience stores in Tokyo are foodie destinations. The Family 
Mart egg sandwiches are legendary, and the 7-Eleven near Roppongi Hills stocks sushi 
that would cost triple back home. Don’t even get me started on Lawson’s famous fried chicken—it’s 
so good even Japanese chefs can’t resist it! Speaking of finding all these incredible food 
spots—let me tell you about something that’s going to save you hours of research and probably 
a good chunk of your travel budget, too. You know how overwhelming planning a trip to Tokyo is, 
right? That’s where Plannin.com comes in clutch. Here’s something crazy: Plannin members 
save up to 40% off hotels worldwide, and when it comes to Tokyo, these savings 
are absolutely game-changing. We’re talking about staying in areas like Shinjuku, where all 
this amazing food is just steps from your hotel without completely destroying your budget. 
The best part? Membership is totally free! Plannin helps me plan and save on my trips, 
not just to Tokyo but to destinations all over the world. Right now, you can access 
a complete guide to Tokyo’s best hotels, from traditional ryokans to those stunning 
skyscraper hotels with views that’ll make your jaw drop. And it’s not just about places to 
stay—Plannin helps you book those must-try food experiences too. Want to learn how to make 
sushi from a master chef? Or maybe snag a reservation at that robot restaurant everyone’s 
talking about? Plannin’s got you covered. Just scan the QR code on your screen right 
now, or click the link in the description below to sign up for free. Trust me, 
your wallet will thank you later, and you’ll have more cash left over for all 
that incredible food we just talked about! First, let’s talk about those trains because 
they’re not just trains—they’re time machines on rails! The JR Yamanote Line and Tokyo 
Metro are so precise that if your train is delayed by more than five minutes, you’ll get a 
written apology to show your boss. That’s right, while most cities celebrate when 
their trains show up at all, Tokyo apologizes for being a few minutes late. 
Pro tip: grab a window seat on the Yurikamome Line from Shimbashi to Odaiba for views 
that’ll make your Instagram followers drool! But the real magic happens in Akihabara. The 
massive Bic Camera store isn’t just a shop; it’s basically a technology museum where you can 
touch everything. Want to try on the latest VR headset? Head to VR Zone Shinjuku. Looking for 
robots? The Pepper Robot Showcase at Softbank will blow your mind, while ASIMO shows off 
at the Miraikan Science Museum in Odaiba. Speaking of robots, check out the Henn na 
Hotel in Ginza, where robots check you in (yes, really!). Or hit up the Pepper PARLOR 
café in Shibuya, where robots serve your coffee with a side of future shock. And 
don’t miss the Toyota Mega Web in Odaiba, where you can test-drive cars from the 
future—some that don’t even need human drivers! And those famous Japanese vending machines? 
They’re everywhere, but the best ones are in Akihabara and Shibuya. The Nescafe Smart 
Vending Machine outside Shibuya Station uses facial recognition to recommend drinks. There’s 
a whole wall of crazy vending machines at Tokyo Character Street in Tokyo Station, from hot pizza 
to fresh flowers. And if you’re feeling brave, try the mystery drink machines in 
Harajuku that decide your fate for you! Let’s start with Shibuya and that crazy 
intersection you’ve seen in every movie about Tokyo ever made. That famous crossing handles 
up to 3,000 people at once! But here’s what you really need to check out: get that perfect 
crossing shot from the Starbucks window on the second floor of the Tsutaya building, 
then head to Shibuya Sky for the most insane city views. Don’t miss the iconic Hachiko 
statue. It’s everyone’s favorite meeting spot, and the new Miyashita Park mall 
is literally a rooftop paradise. Right next door, you’ve got Harajuku, and oh boy, 
is this place a trip! Start at Takeshita Street, where you’ll find Totti Candy Factory’s rainbow 
cotton candy and the massive KIDDY LAND toy store. But here’s what most people miss: duck down Cat 
Street for some serious shopping at stores like RAGTAG and A.P.C., then chill at the ultra-hip 
Streamer Coffee Company. And right behind all this chaos? The peaceful Meiji Shrine, with that 
famous wall of sake barrels at the entrance. Now, let’s talk about Shinjuku at night. The 
Godzilla Head on top of the Toho Building actually roars every hour! Hit up the famous 
Don Quijote mega-store for literally everything, then head to Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) for 
some of the best yakitori you’ll ever try. Hidden in all this neon chaos is Golden Gai, six tiny 
alleys packed with over 200 bars. Champion Bar and Albatross are always welcoming to tourists, 
and they’re perfect for making new friends. And then there’s Asakusa. This is where old Tokyo 
lives on. Beyond the massive Sensoji Temple, explore Nakamise Shopping Street for 
traditional crafts, then hop over to the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center 
(that weird-looking building) for free views of the Tokyo Skytree. End your day at the Asahi 
Beer Hall—yes, that building with the golden flame on top that locals call “the golden 
poo” for some of the best views of the river. First up—timing is everything! Want to see cherry 
blossoms? Late March to early April is peak season at the famous Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen. Fall 
colors? Head to Rikugien Gardens or Koishikawa Korakuen between late November and early December. 
Summer? Let’s just say it’s not the best time to test your deodorant’s limits, plus you’ll 
miss the epic Sumida River Fireworks Festival. For transportation, grab a Pasmo or 
Suica card from any major station, like Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Station. These 
are your golden tickets to everything: trains, buses, and even vending machines. 
Pro tip: download the Japan Travel by Navitime app—it’s like Google Maps 
on steroids for Tokyo’s train system. Money talk—everyone thinks Tokyo is super 
expensive, but here’s the truth: it can be, but it doesn’t have to be! You can find amazing 
ramen at chains like Ichiran for under $10, stay at the stylish Nine Hours Capsule Hotel in 
Shinjuku for $40 a night, or check out the UNIQLO flagship store in Ginza for affordable fashion. 
Want free views? Skip the Tokyo Skytree and head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building 
in Shinjuku—same stunning views, zero yen! For accommodations, areas like Shinjuku (near 
Shinjuku Station), Shibuya (around Shibuya Mark City), and Asakusa (close to Sensoji Temple) are 
perfect for first-timers. Budget travelers should check out MYSTAYS hotels or the APA Hotel 
chain—they’re everywhere and won’t break the bank. But here’s a pro tip that’ll save 
you some serious cash: Remember Plannin.com we talked about earlier? Members get up 
to 40% off at some of Tokyo’s best hotels, from luxury spots like Park Hyatt to convenient 
locations like the Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu. Plus, you’ll get access to exclusive 
deals that you won’t find anywhere else. And let’s address the language barrier. While 
most signs have English translations now, here’s a game-changer: grab yourself a 
Pocketalk translator. This tiny device is like having a personal interpreter in 
your pocket. Just speak into it and boom, instant Japanese! Watch our Travel Tech 
video (link in the description) to learn all about the latest tech for travel 
and some of the best recommendations. Well, there you have it. Tokyo isn’t 
just another city on your bucket list; it’s basically the whole bucket! From the 
legendary sushi at Sukiyabashi Jiro to the robot servers at Pepper PARLOR, from the serene 
Meiji Shrine to the chaos of Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo’s got your name written 
all over it in neon lights! Until next time, this is Kelly from 
The Vacation Agent reminding you to hit that subscribe button and use 
those Plannin.com links to save big on your dream Tokyo vacation! 
Safe travels, arigato and sayonara!

#tokyo #japantravel #visittokyo
Thinking about visiting Tokyo? Be sure to watch this video before booking your trip. Learn all about the best Tokyo neighborhoods, things to do, places to stay, places to eat, and other tips and tricks about traveling in and around this iconic and fascinating city!

And before you book your hotel, check out Plannin where you can save up to 40% off accommodations and experiences when you sign up for an account using my personal link here: https://plannin.com/en/profile/TheVacationAgent?utm_source=YT&utm_campaign=Tokyo&refId=TheVacationAgent

This is always my first stop when looking to plan any trip around the world, not just to Tokyo. Check it out today!
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TIMESTAMPS & LINKS:
1:07 – TOKYO CULTURE
3:04 – TOKYO: A Foodie’s Paradise
DEN: https://www.jimbochoden.com/en/
Narisawa in Minami-Aoyama: https://www.narisawa-yoshihiro-en.com/
Sukiyabashi Jiro in Ginza: https://www.sushi-jiro.jp/
L’Effervescence: https://www.leffervescence.jp/en/
Rokurinsha: https://rokurinsha.com/en/
Fuunji in Shinjuku: https://www.fu-unji.com/
Nakiryu: http://www12.plala.or.jp/nakiryu/
Sembikiya: https://rebrand.ly/c9d9ca
NOTE: The Robot Restaurant was slated to reopen last year but never got around to reopening.
We’re sad to see it go permanently, and apologize for the errors in reporting!
Zauo: https://www.zauo.com/en/
5:07 – Why I Use Plannin
LINK: https://plannin.com/en/profile/TheVacationAgent?utm_source=YT&utm_campaign=Tokyo&refId=TheVacationAgent
6:22 – TOKYO’S TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION
Akihabara Experiences on Plannin: https://rebrand.ly/5ba57a
7:58 – TOKYO NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT
– SHIBUYA
– HARAJUKU 8:27
– SHINJUKU 8:55
– ASAKUSA 9:24
9:50 – PRACTICAL TIPS
– Henn an Hotel on Plannin: https://rebrand.ly/30021a
– https://youtu.be/_QzfY_ViiXE
– Timekettle M3 Language Translator Earbuds: https://amzn.to/432hsLu
– Pocketalk Plus Translator: https://amzn.to/4kdc1zE
12:02 – CONCLUSION

We’ve included convenient Amazon links so you can get your translator without having to search all over the place for them! Just remember that we are an affiliate of Amazon, and any purchase you make using our links will earn us a small commission and go a long way to help maintain our channel while also not affecting your purchase price. It’s a win-win for everyone!

*Travel Gear We Recommend:*
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo: https://amzn.to/42WjM4Q
Ceptics World International Travel Plug Adapter: https://amzn.to/3YAJV8c
Apple AirTag 4-Pack: https://amzn.to/3WDQXab
Ridge Carry-On: https://amzn.to/3NaEG96
Peak Design Travel Line Backpack: https://amzn.to/4ieVnhO
***
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