A week in Tokyo: 12 attractions you shouldn't miss!
- Noa
If you are looking for attractions in Tokyo, you will find museums, Japanese gardens, crazy shopping, parks, neon signs, amazing food – and everything in the extreme! It is worth spending at least a week in Tokyo, and then combine the trip with other Japanese destinations such as Osaka , Nara and Kyoto .
Before you arrive in Japan and if you don't have a connecting flight, it's a good idea to get a fake flight ticket .
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Table of Contents
What should you do in a week in Tokyo?
So yes, you can go to this big crosswalk in Shibuya and go out to celebrate the city's crazy nightlife. But here I've mainly mentioned the more relaxed attractions. So if you want to spend a week in Tokyo in a (relatively) relaxed way, and enjoy some magical gems in the city, here are 12 attractions in Tokyo worth getting to know!
Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace, near Tokyo Station, is the official residence of the Emperor of Japan. This historic site is surrounded by beautiful, green gardens and canals. The original structure was destroyed in World War II, but has been meticulously restored and continues to be a symbol of Japan's historical and cultural strength.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
An amazing garden in the heart of the city, combining Japanese, French and English styles. A perfect place to escape the chaos of the city, enjoy a relaxing walk, huge green spaces, trees and lakes. In spring, the garden is filled with cherry blossoms (sakura) which make it a small paradise in the heart of the city.
Meiji Shrine
A magical and unique temple in the heart of Tokyo, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. The place is surrounded by a green and relaxing forest that inspires a sense of peace. A walk along the paths leading to the temple is a special experience, and many visitors come here to pray, admire the traditional Japanese architecture and enjoy the calm and beauty of the place.
Meiji Jingu Gyoen Gardens
Beautiful gardens right next to Meiji Jingu Shrine. The gardens combine traditional Japanese landscaping with picturesque ponds, beautiful bridges and tree-lined walkways. Each season has its own special blooms, so it's worth visiting at any time.
Museum of Modern Art - teamLab Planets
A modern art museum that offers a fascinating interactive experience. Created by the artist collective teamLab, the museum combines digital art with advanced technology to create spaces that combine light, sound and movement. While visiting the museum, you can immerse yourself in water, walk among floating digital flowers and connect to an imaginary world where art merges with the environment.
It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance through the museum's official website.
Ueno Park
One of the largest and most popular public parks in the city. The park offers a wide range of activities and attractions, including traditional Japanese gardens, lakes, and museums. One of the main attractions in the park is the Ueno Zoo, where you can see animals from around the world, including giant pandas. In spring, the park is filled with thousands of cherry blossom trees, making it a particularly popular spot for sakura viewing.
Sensō-ji Temple
One of the oldest and most famous temples in Tokyo, located in the Asakusa district. The temple was established in 645 and is dedicated to the goddess of mercy, Kannon. The entrance to the temple is through the impressive Thunder Gate (Kaminarimon), which leads to the Nakamise shopping street, where you can find a variety of traditional shops and stalls.
Daien-ji Temple
A small and fascinating Buddhist temple located in the Meguro district of Tokyo. The temple was built in the 17th century and includes statues of the Seven Gods of Fortune (Shichifukujin) and small Buddha statues symbolizing various prayers. What characterizes the place the most are the stone statues representing the people who were affected by the Great Meguro Fire that occurred in 1772.
One Hundred Steps Staircase Museum
One of the unique historical and cultural sites, located at Hotel Gajoen Tokyo , very close to Daien-ji Temple. The museum is known for the Hundred Steps (百章段), a series of seven ornate rooms connected by an ancient wooden staircase. The rooms themselves are decorated with traditional Japanese art, including murals, carved ceilings, and ancient Japanese artwork.
A visit to the museum is like a journey back in time, with a sense of luxury and classic Japanese aesthetics (dress up a bit). The museum hosts changing exhibitions showcasing a wide range of traditional and modern Japanese art.
Day trips from Tokyo
If you are looking for something to do in Tokyo and beyond, and you would like to go on an organized day trip that will arrange all the most worthwhile attractions for you and you will also meet travelers along the way, you can read recommendations and pre-book a trip that suits you.
A perfect day outside of Tokyo that includes all the main attractions of Mount Fuji and Hakone with a return trip by Shinkansen train.
⭐ Over 17,000 positive reviews and recommended by 96% of travelers!
✅ Includes comfortable travel in an air-conditioned bus with free Wi-Fi
✅ Boat trip on Lake Ashi and cable car to the stunning view of Hakone
✅ English training
Reserve your spot now! ￬
Learn how to draw manga professionally with an expert!
⭐ Recommended by 98% of participants with over 65 positive reviews!
✅ Hands-on experience with professional manga tools
✅ Suitable for all levels – beginners and advanced
✅ Get a souvenir to take home
Reserve your spot now! ￬
If you want to experience Tokyo's nightlife in an organized and anthropological way, then it's worth taking a tour and having a particularly authentic experience.
⭐ Recommended by 95% of travelers with over 370 reviews!
✅ Small group night tour
✅ Visit special pubs and izakayas that you won't find on your own
✅ You can choose the drinks and dishes you want
Reserve your spot now! ￬
Recommended hotels and accommodation areas in Tokyo
The most recommended areas for accommodation are Shibuya, Shinjuku and Ginza . Shibuya and Shinjuku are not far from each other and have many restaurants, nightlife and attractions. Ginza is a more elegant and luxurious area. Here are some recommendations for simple or luxurious hotels, in these three areas, that are worth spending a week in Tokyo.
Recommended places to stay in Shibuya
If you want to be right in the center, Shibuya is the place. Full of shops, restaurants and a cool atmosphere. Public transportation is excellent and it's easy to get anywhere in the city.
A central 3-star hotel suitable for couples or families.
⭐ Rating of 8.7 on Booking.com
✅ Excellent location
✅ Private rooms with air conditioning
✅ Well-equipped and comfortable rooms
Book now:
In the center of Shibuya, a luxurious 5-star hotel with panoramic views of the city.
⭐ Rating of 9.0 on Booking.com
✅ In the center of Shibuya
✅ Super luxurious 5-star hotel
✅ Panoramic view of the city
Book now:
Recommended places to stay in Shinjuku
Best suited for those who want easy access to everything. On the one hand, the area is full of markets, bars and small izakayas, and on the other, parks and huge shopping areas.
A modern, clean hotel with comfortable rooms. Located near Shinjuku Gyoen Garden and a short walk from the central station.
⭐ Rating of 7.8 on Booking.com
✅ Central location
✅ 3-star hotel with private rooms
✅ One minute walk from Shinjuku-Gyoenmae Station
Book now:
A luxurious 5-star hotel in Shinjuku with spacious rooms and stunning views of the city. Luxurious restaurants, a panoramic pool and a pampering spa.
⭐ Rating of 8.7 on Booking.com
✅ Excellent location – 7 minutes walk from Shinjuku Station
✅ Luxurious 5-star hotel
✅ Excellent breakfast option at the hotel
Book now:
Recommended places to stay in Ginza
A luxurious area, clean and quiet compared to other central areas. You will find boutiques, chef restaurants and a luxurious atmosphere.
A comfortable and cozy hotel in Ginza, close to restaurants and shops.
⭐ Rating of 8.0 on Booking.com
✅ Convenient location near the train station
✅ Private rooms with air conditioning
✅ Breakfast option
Book now:
Centrally located in Ginza, a super luxurious 5-star hotel.
⭐ Rating of 9.3 on Booking.com
✅ 5-star hotel at the highest level
✅ Includes spa and fitness center
✅ Luxurious rooms and breakfast option
Book now:
Recommended restaurants in Tokyo
Throughout the city you will find all the types of food you could want. Italian food, Chinese food, cafes, desserts and of course Japanese food. Get some recommendations for places that are especially worth trying!
Coffee Group
Perfect cafe! In a quiet alley in Shinjuku. The place offers delicious sandwiches and toasts, coffee and tea, and classical music. If you are spending a week in Tokyo and come to Shinjuku, it is highly recommended to stop by.
Yayoiken Shinjuku Meiji-dori
An excellent restaurant in Shinjuku with delicious and inexpensive Japanese food, with some good vegetarian options.
Mizuya Yoshino
An authentic Japanese restaurant in Shinjuku with Japanese curry and a variety of other super delicious dishes. The restaurant is located across from the Audio Union Shinjuku shop.
Spaghetti no Pancho
Pancho has many locations throughout Tokyo, including Shinjuku and Shibuya. It offers spaghetti stuffed with cheese, egg, meat, and sauces. You can choose the size of the portion, but even the small portion is huge.
Oreryu Gyoza Meshi Harajuku
In Shibuya, a ramen restaurant that also has excellent Chinese food. In addition to all kinds of delicious ramen, you can find gyoza, mapo tofu (a Chinese dish with meat, tofu, sauce, and rice), and lots of other delicious food.
Additional destinations after a week in Tokyo
After a week in Tokyo full of unforgettable (and perhaps intense) experiences, I recommend exploring more authentic and Japanese destinations. You can take a direct Shinkansen to the interesting city of Nagoya , continue to the historical and beloved Kyoto , and explore the amazing Osaka with excellent street food and full of fun attractions. For a destination with lots of nature and peace, visit the peaceful Nara with its famous park and free-roaming reindeer. If you want to visit the most special island there is, fly to Okinawa and experience diving, perfect beaches and special food. For experiences of wild nature, hot springs and super authentic places, it is best to go to Kyushu .
Tokyo Questions and Answers
What's the best way to plan a week in Tokyo? 📍
A week is the perfect time to experience both the main attractions and the more local corners of the city. I recommend combining visits to different neighborhoods like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Asakusa, and Ginza, and planning days in advance with a mix of temples, shopping, food, and nightlife.
What to do in Tokyo for the first time?✨
If this is your first time in the city, it's a good idea to start with classic attractions like Shibuya Crossing, the Imperial Palace, Tokyo Tower, and Ueno Park.
What attractions in Tokyo are not to be missed? ⛩️
- Tokyo Tower
- Senso-ji Temple
- Shibuya Crossing
What can you do in Tokyo besides tourist attractions? 🌳
Beyond the usual attractions, you can experience the city from a more local angle – go to a small izakaya bar, join a manga drawing class or sushi workshop, explore specialty markets or get lost in the alleys.
How should you get around Tokyo? 🚈
Public transportation is super convenient and punctual. It is recommended to buy a Suica or Pasmo card for metro and train travel.
Where should you sleep in Tokyo for a whole week? 🛌
Shibuya is perfect for those who want to be in the center, Shinjuku has a strong nightlife and convenient transportation to everywhere, Ginza is more upscale and quiet, and Asakusa is suitable for those who prefer a more traditional atmosphere.
