I visited Tokyo for 7 days with my husband in March 2018. It was our first trip together and still one of our favorites. From delicious food to beautiful sights and fascinating culture, Tokyo had so much to offer. On top of that, the city is incredibly safe. We accidentally left cash in our hotel safe, and the hotel actually mailed it back to us in California! Even little kids explored theme parks on their own, something we’ve never seen elsewhere. Tokyo was the perfect destination for our first adventure, and here are my favorite things to do from our trip:
1. Asakusa
Why Visit:
One of Tokyo’s most historic and atmospheric neighborhoods, perfect for soaking up old Edo-era charm. Several shops rent kimonos or yukatas so you can explore the temple area in traditional Japanese clothing for the full experience.
Highlights:
- Sensō-ji Temple → Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, founded in the 7th century.
- Nakamise Shopping Street → lined with stalls selling snacks, souvenirs, and traditional crafts.
- Suzukien Asakusa → my favorite matcha gelato place where you can choose between seven levels of matcha intensity! Of course I tried the highest level, and it had an incredibly deep and rich taste. The hojicha flavor was also excellent.
How to Go:
It was very crowded when we visited late morning, so I recommend going early morning or evening to avoid crowds.
2. Shibuya
Why Visit:
One of Tokyo’s most energetic and trend-setting neighborhoods.
Highlights:
- Shibuya Crossing → the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing often featured in movies to symbolizes modern Tokyo.
- Hachikō Statue → Tokyo’s most beloved dog statue that honors the loyal Akita who waited daily for his owner even after his death.
- Shopping → countless shops with my favorite being the giant flagship Hands store.
How to Go:
Shibuya Station is one of Tokyo’s biggest hubs and easily reachable. Use the Hachikō Exit for the crossing and statue.
3. Akihabara
Why Visit:
Tokyo’s mecca for anime, gaming, tech, and otaku culture.
Highlights:
- Arcades → multi-floor gaming centers are everywhere. I had so much fun and spent hours trying different ones!
- Themed Cafés → check out a maid, animal, or whatever theme you’re into cafe. Warning: my husband has been to one on a different trip and said the food was really bad, so these are more about the unique experience than the food.
How to Go:
Start from Akihabara Station’s Electric Town Exit, the main entrance to the lively and famous part of Akihabara.
4. Cherry Blossoms
Why Visit:
Cherry blossoms aren’t just beautiful — they’re Japan’s national flower and deeply ingrained in its culture. They only bloom for about 1–2 weeks, but during that time they’re everywhere, making it an unforgettable experience if you can catch it.
Highlights:
- Ueno Park → one of Tokyo’s most famous cherry blossom spots, with over 1,000 trees lining the main path.
- Chidorigafuchi → near the Imperial Palace, featuring a picturesque moat lined with sakura trees.
- Meguro River → over 800 cherry trees line the river, forming pink tunnels that look stunning day and night.
How to Go:
We visited around end of March since the typical blooming period is between March 25 – April 5. We also stayed for a week to increase our chances of catching the bloom.
5. Day Trip to Hakone
Why Visit:
Famous for its hot springs and Mount Fuji views, Hakone makes a great day trip or weekend getaway.
Highlights:
- Hakone Loop (Hakone Round Course) → the most popular way to explore. It’s a circular route combining train, cable car, ropeway, pirate ship, and bus!
- Onsens (Hot Springs) → this area is full of geothermal hot springs perfect for relaxing. Take your pick from ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) with private open-air baths, public day-use onsens, or modern spa resorts.
How to Go:
We followed this guide for the Hakone Round Course and stayed overnight at a ryokan. Soaking in our private hot spring, eating kaiseki (traditional multi-course) meals, and sleeping on tatami mats was such a unique and memorable experience!
Planning a trip to Japan? Don’t miss my Top 5 Tips for Japan.
Exploring other cities too? Check out my top things to do for Kyoto and Osaka.