Best things to do in Tokyo

Originally constructed for the private residence of "daimyo" (feudal lord) Naito in the Edo period, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden has served as a public park under the Ministry of the Environment since its reconstruction after World War II. Tour the park to see its three main sections: a traditional Japanese garden dotted with ponds intercepted by islands and bridges; a symmetrically planned French garden; and an English garden with sweeping lawns and cherry blossom trees. Stop by the greenhouse to inspect the permanent and special exhibits of tropical flowers.

Pay your respects to the deified Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken, at Meiji Jingu Shrine, a Shinto shrine surrounded by a forested area crisscrossed with peaceful walking paths. At the temple itself, visitors give offerings, buy amulets and charms, and reflect on and write out their wishes. Walk through the treasure house to see belongings of the emperor and empress, and visit the museum annex next door, which hosts temporary exhibitions. Note that photography is not permitted within the temple’s halls.

Symbolic of Japan’s economic rebirth after World War II, Tokyo Tower stands proudly at a height of 333 m (1,092.5 ft), defining the Tokyo skyline with its orange and white stripes. This lattice steel tower, modeled on the Eiffel Tower, holds a communications tower and two observation decks. Reach the decks by elevator or by climbing the 600 stairs to take in a view of the city below. Directly beneath the tower, visit the four-story building that houses restaurants, souvenir shops, and an indoor amusement park.

Completed in 645 CE, Senso-ji Temple holds the status of being the oldest temple in Tokyo. The temple grounds contain an independent Buddhist temple and a Shinto shrine. Enter through the imposing Thunder Gate and walk the shopping street, lined with about 90 food and souvenir shops and dating back to the early 18th century, up to the main hall. The temple complex, including the main hall, contains buildings both historic and reconstructed since World War II. Don’t miss the five-story pagoda and the garden and pond surrounding the "Demboin" (high priest’s residence).

Piercing the skyline at 634 m (2,080 ft), Tokyo Skytree hosts a restaurant, a broadcasting tower, and an observation deck. Ride the elevator up, and then take in 360-degree views of Tokyo while climbing the five-story spiral staircase to the highest glass-walled panoramic viewing deck. A gift shop inside the tower sells sleek design items and souvenirs, and within the observation area you will find a cafe and a French-Japanese fusion restaurant.

A hub of cultural attractions, Ueno Park originally served as the gardens of the Kaneiji Temple during the Edo period. In 1873 it opened to the public as one of the first Western-style parks. An island temple to the goddess of fortune and beauty floats in its pond, while the national museum and art museum stand as bastions of Japan's rich heritage. Rest up between cultural sightseeing, stop by the zoo, or visit the market under the elevated train line. In the spring, join the flocks of visitors enjoying the over 800 blossoming cherry trees.

Roam the streets and malls of Odaiba District, a popular Tokyo entertainment and shopping district situated on an artificial island. Created in 1850, the island has experienced a revival in the late 20th century, becoming a prominent hotspot for shopping and leisure activities. Wander among tall skyscrapers and eclectic modern buildings, browse countless shops, or check out numerous dining options there. For a more laid-back outing, take a relaxing stroll on the beach boardwalk or have a picnic in the park.

The first Disney theme park outside of the United States, Tokyo Disneyland opened in 1983 to provide the same magic and fun that makes Disney World famous. The park contains seven sections: a World Bazaar, the four classic Disney worlds (Westernland, Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, and Adventureland), Critter Country, and Mickey’s Toontown. Featuring many of the beloved rides and attractions based on Disney’s classic films, the park draws tremendous crowds. Research tickets in advance and wear comfortable shoes to navigate the park’s vast open spaces.

Home of the imperial family, Imperial Palace and its expansive grounds stand among the city's most popular attractions for foreign visitors. Badly damaged during World War II, the palace underwent a massive reconstruction project in the 1960s. Today, visitors tour the complex at the heart of the city to see the living and working quarters of the imperial family, as well as an array of historic landmarks that include lush gardens and a famous stone bridge. Keep in mind that you must book a tour by phone or via the palace website in order to join a guided tour on the day of your visit. Tour spots fill up fast, so reserve yours early to avoid disappointment upon arrival.

Catch sweeping views of the city from one of the two public observation decks at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Buildings. Completed in 1990, the postmodern building designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange references a Gothic cathedral. Inside, the governing bodies for the entire Tokyo metropolitan area have their headquarters. At 202 m (663 ft), the building's observation decks each contain a cafe and souvenir shop. One of them stays open late, providing glittering views of the skyline on clear nights.

Tokyo's hub for all things hi-tech, Akihabara serves as a haven for gamers, computer enthusiasts, and in recent times, fans of anime and manga. This "Electric Town" is the place to go when shopping for electronic devices, gadgets, and computer-related items. Roaming the streets of the lively neighborhood, you'll come across countless electronics stores, game shops, and internet cafes, but also a variety of anime distributors and maid cafes, cosplay establishments employing waitresses dressed up as French maids.