UnpinnedGlobal City Directory

Tokyo

Japan

Attractions & Events in Tokyo

Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Tokyo, Japan

Top Attractions

Edo-Tokyo Museum

A museum showcasing Tokyo's history from the Edo period to the present, featuring life-sized replicas and interactive exhibits.

Tips: Allocate at least two hours to fully explore the exhibits; guided tours are available in multiple languages.

Imperial Palace & East Garden

The primary residence of the Emperor of Japan, surrounded by moats and stone walls, with beautiful gardens open to the public.

Tips: East Gardens are open to the public; guided tours of the inner grounds require advance reservation.

Meiji Jingu Shrine

A tranquil Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, set within a lush forested area.

Tips: Combine your visit with a stroll through Yoyogi Park; check for traditional wedding ceremonies on weekends.

Odaiba

A futuristic artificial island featuring shopping malls, entertainment complexes, and a replica Statue of Liberty.

Tips: Visit teamLab Borderless for immersive digital art; enjoy the seaside park and Rainbow Bridge views.

Sensō-ji

Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, dedicated to Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion, featuring a five-story pagoda and the vibrant Nakamise-dōri shopping street.

Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and explore the nearby Asakusa Shrine.

Shibuya Crossing

The world's busiest pedestrian crossing, symbolizing Tokyo's vibrant urban life.

Tips: Experience the crossing during peak hours for the full effect; nearby Hachikō Statue is a popular meeting spot.

Sumida Park

A riverside park known for its cherry blossoms and the annual Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival.

Tips: Best visited during cherry blossom season or the fireworks festival in July; offers scenic river views.

TeamLab Planets

An interactive art exhibition offering immersive, multisensory installations that blend art, technology, and nature.

Tips: Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water-based exhibits; book tickets in advance due to popularity.

Tokyo Skytree

A 634-meter tall broadcasting and observation tower, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo and beyond.

Tips: Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues; visit on a clear day for the best visibility.

Tokyo Tower

A 333-meter tall communications and observation tower inspired by the Eiffel Tower, offering panoramic views of the city.

Tips: Visit during sunset for stunning city views; consider dining at the Tower Restaurant in FootTown.

Toyosu Market

Tokyo's primary wholesale fish market, featuring seafood restaurants and a spa to attract visitors.

Tips: Arrive early to witness the tuna auctions; explore the new Toyosu Senkyaku Banrai area for dining options.

Ueno Park

A spacious public park home to several major museums, a zoo, and famous for its cherry blossoms in spring.

Tips: Ideal for picnics during cherry blossom season; visit the Tokyo National Museum within the park.

Events & Festivals

Fuji Matsuri

A wisteria festival held at Kameido Tenjin Shrine, celebrating the blooming of wisteria flowers with beautiful displays.

When: April

Tips: Visit during peak bloom for the best experience, and bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Fukagawa Matsuri

One of Tokyo's three great Shinto festivals, featuring parades of mikoshi and participants being splashed with water along the route.

When: August

Tips: Be prepared to get wet during the procession; wearing waterproof clothing is advisable.

Koenji Awa Odori Festival

A dance festival featuring thousands of dancers performing the traditional Awa Odori dance through the streets of Koenji.

When: August

Tips: Expect large crowds; arriving early will help secure a good viewing spot.

Setagaya Boro Ichi

A historic flea market dating back to the 16th century, featuring hundreds of stalls selling antiques, crafts, and food.

When: December

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and arrive early to find the best bargains.

Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival

An annual fireworks display over the Sumida River, featuring thousands of fireworks and attracting close to a million spectators.

When: July

Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the riverbanks, and consider using public transportation due to road closures.

Sannō Matsuri

One of Tokyo's three great Shinto festivals, featuring a procession called Shinkosai through central Tokyo districts.

When: June

Tips: The main procession occurs in even-numbered years; verify the event year before planning your visit.

Kanda Matsuri

A major Shinto festival held in honor of the kami of Kanda Myōjin Shrine, featuring parades with over 200 mikoshi, musicians, dancers, and floats.

When: May

Tips: Held in odd-numbered years; check the schedule in advance and plan for crowded streets.

Sanja Matsuri

One of Tokyo's largest Shinto festivals, honoring the three founders of Sensō-ji Temple with parades featuring mikoshi (portable shrines), traditional music, and dancing.

When: May

Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, and be prepared for large crowds.

Tokyo International Film Festival

One of the largest film events in Asia, showcasing a wide variety of Japanese and international films over two weeks.

When: October

Tips: Purchase tickets in advance for popular screenings, and check the schedule for special events and guest appearances.

Tokyo Ramen Show

A culinary festival featuring renowned ramen chefs from across Japan, offering a variety of regional ramen styles.

When: October

Tips: Bring cash for food purchases, and be prepared for long lines at popular stalls.