Destination guideJapan
42 Things to Do in Tokyo (2026)
Tokyo, situated on the eastern coast of Honshu, transitioned from a fishing village known as Edo to the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1603. Following the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the city was renamed Tokyo and became the capital of Japan. ### Historical Heritage and Traditional Culture The city preserves its Edo-period history through sites like the **Imperial Palace**, the primary residence of the Emperor, which is situated on the former grounds of Edo Castle.
Updated September 24, 2026 · 42 places verified against live place data
- 42 spots
- 10 must-try dishes
- Researched September 2026
- 24 sources
The short answer
- Start with MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives (16), Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Arena (3) and Tokyo Big Sight (11), the places the research led with.
- For food, Monjayaki and Edomae Sushi lead the must-try list; the full list of places to eat is on the Tokyo food guide.
- The best times to visit Tokyo are during spring (late March to April) for cherry blossoms or autumn (November to early December) for vibrant foliage and mild, dry weather.
42 places worth your time in Tokyo
Things to see and do
MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives
A newly opened cultural landmark designed by Kengo Kuma that functions without permanent exhibitions.
- MoN Takanawa: The Museum of NarrativesA newly opened cultural landmark designed by Kengo Kuma that functions without permanent exhibitions. Instead, it features rotating, immersive art installations that evolve continuously.
3-chōme-16-1 Mita, Minato City, Tokyo 108-0073, Japan
Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Arena
The home of the September Grand Sumo Tournament (Aki Basho), which runs until September 27, 2026. This venue offers the most authentic local experience of Japan’s national sport.
- Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo ArenaThe home of the September Grand Sumo Tournament (Aki Basho), which runs until September 27, 2026. This venue offers the most authentic local experience of Japan’s national sport.
1-chōme-3-28 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
Tokyo Big Sight
From September 25–27, 2026, this iconic international exhibition center hosts the Good Life Fair 2026.
- Tokyo Big SightFrom September 25–27, 2026, this iconic international exhibition center hosts the Good Life Fair 2026. This large-scale local event focuses on sustainable living, craft products, and the 'well-being' lifestyle.
3-chōme-11-1 Ariake, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0063, Japan
Mount Takao
A sacred mountain located within metropolitan Tokyo that offers a network of diverse hiking trails ranging from the well-paved Trail 1 to the more rugged, water-side Trail 6.
- Mount TakaoA sacred mountain located within metropolitan Tokyo that offers a network of diverse hiking trails ranging from the well-paved Trail 1 to the more rugged, water-side Trail 6.
Mount Takao, Takaomachi, Hachioji, Tokyo 193-0844, Japan
Todoroki Ravine Park
This serene 1-kilometer walking trail follows the Yazawa River through Tokyo's only natural ravine, offering a lush jungle-like canopy of Japanese zelkova and oak trees.
- Todoroki Ravine ParkThis serene 1-kilometer walking trail follows the Yazawa River through Tokyo's only natural ravine, offering a lush jungle-like canopy of Japanese zelkova and oak trees.
1-chōme-22-26 Todoroki, Setagaya City, Tokyo 158-0082, Japan
teamLab Borderless: MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM
Located within the Azabudai Hills complex, this 'museum without a map' is a massive labyrinth of interactive digital installations that react to human presence.
- teamLab Borderless: MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUMLocated within the Azabudai Hills complex, this 'museum without a map' is a massive labyrinth of interactive digital installations that react to human presence.
Japan, 〒106-0041 Tokyo, Minato City, Toranomon, 5-chōme−9−９ Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza B, B1
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Spanning 144 acres, this expansive green space blends three distinct landscape styles: a French formal garden with rose beds, an English landscape garden with massive open lawns.
- Shinjuku Gyoen National GardenSpanning 144 acres, this expansive green space blends three distinct landscape styles: a French formal garden with rose beds, an English landscape garden with massive open lawns.
11 Naitōmachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0014, Japan
Tokyo National Museum
As Japan's oldest and largest museum, this Ueno institution houses over 110,000 objects. In September 2026, it features the special exhibition 'Hiroshige: New Perspective on Edo Japan' (starting September 29).
- Tokyo National MuseumAs Japan's oldest and largest museum, this Ueno institution houses over 110,000 objects. In September 2026, it features the special exhibition 'Hiroshige: New Perspective on Edo Japan' (starting September 29).
13-9 Uenokōen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8712, Japan
Edo-Tokyo Museum
Reopened in Spring 2026 following a massive three-year renovation, this museum features a 9,000-square-meter permanent exhibition space.
- Edo-Tokyo MuseumReopened in Spring 2026 following a massive three-year renovation, this museum features a 9,000-square-meter permanent exhibition space.
1-chōme-4-1 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
Institute for Nature Study, National Museum of Nature and Science
This science center in Ueno Park features the iconic 360-degree 'Theater 360' and a massive collection of dinosaur fossils.
- Institute for Nature Study, National Museum of Nature and ScienceThis science center in Ueno Park features the iconic 360-degree 'Theater 360' and a massive collection of dinosaur fossils.
5-chōme-21-5 Shirokanedai, Minato City, Tokyo 108-0071, Japan
Takanawa Gateway City
Designed by Kengo Kuma, this expansive complex features the 'THE LINKPILLAR' towers and a central station building topped by a massive, origami-inspired membrane roof made of steel and Japanese cedar.
- Takanawa Gateway CityDesigned by Kengo Kuma, this expansive complex features the 'THE LINKPILLAR' towers and a central station building topped by a massive, origami-inspired membrane roof made of steel and Japanese cedar.
2-chōme-21-21 Takanawa, Minato City, Tokyo 108-0074, Japan
Toranomon Hills Station Tower
Crafted by Shohei Shigematsu of OMA, this 266-meter tower serves as a monumental 'gateway' with a bridged structure that spans over a major arterial road.
- Toranomon Hills Station TowerCrafted by Shohei Shigematsu of OMA, this 266-meter tower serves as a monumental 'gateway' with a bridged structure that spans over a major arterial road.
2-chōme-6-1 Toranomon, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0001, Japan
Azabudai Hills Mori JP Tower
Standing as Japan’s tallest building at 330 meters, this supertall skyscraper features a distinct pearl-gray glass facade designed by Pelli Clarke & Partners to evoke the symmetry of a lotus flower.
- Azabudai Hills Mori JP TowerStanding as Japan’s tallest building at 330 meters, this supertall skyscraper features a distinct pearl-gray glass facade designed by Pelli Clarke & Partners to evoke the symmetry of a lotus flower.
1-chōme-3-1 Azabudai, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0041, Japan
Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum
Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, this museum is hosting major international collaborations.
- Tokyo Metropolitan Art MuseumCelebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, this museum is hosting major international collaborations. Through October 18, 2026, visitors can see 'Edo in Focus: Japanese Treasures from the British Museum.
8-36 Uenokōen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan
Japan Edition, 7
Japan Edition, 4-chōme-7 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
Shibuya Sky
This open-air observation deck sits 229 meters above the ground on the rooftop of the Shibuya Scramble Square tower.
Japan, 〒150-6145 Tokyo, Shibuya, 2-chōme−24−１２ スクランブルスクエア 14階・45階 46階・屋上
Hatonosu Station
Tanazawa, Okutama, Nishitama District, Tokyo, Tokyo 198-0106, Japan
Where to eat
See the full Tokyo food guide: where to eat and what to order.
Azabudai Hills Market
Situated within the expansive Azabudai Hills complex, this specialized food hall is a paradise for high-end culinary shopping.
- Azabudai Hills MarketSituated within the expansive Azabudai Hills complex, this specialized food hall is a paradise for high-end culinary shopping.
Japan, 〒106-0041 Tokyo, Minato City, Azabudai, 1-chōme−2−４ ヒルズガーデンプラザC B1-1F
Hills House Sky Room Café&Bar
Situated on the 34th floor of the Mori JP Tower in Azabudai Hills, this venue provides the most intimate and framed architectural view of the Tokyo Tower available in the city.
- Hills House Sky Room Café&BarSituated on the 34th floor of the Mori JP Tower in Azabudai Hills, this venue provides the most intimate and framed architectural view of the Tokyo Tower available in the city.
Japan, 〒106-0041 Tokyo, Minato City, Azabudai, 1-chōme−3−１ ヒルズ森JPタワ 34F
Yakitori SANKA
A standout addition to the 2026 Michelin Guide, this French restaurant is celebrated for its minimalist and refined approach to fine dining.
- Yakitori SANKAA standout addition to the 2026 Michelin Guide, this French restaurant is celebrated for its minimalist and refined approach to fine dining.
Japan, 〒162-0805 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Yaraichō, ６４−４ DEAR神楽坂 ２階
KOFFEE MAMEYA Kakeru
This sophisticated coffee destination earned a spot on the 2026 'World's 100 Best Coffee Shops' list.
- KOFFEE MAMEYA KakeruThis sophisticated coffee destination earned a spot on the 2026 'World's 100 Best Coffee Shops' list. It offers a unique 'coffee omakase' experience where baristas guide you through multi-course tasting menus.
2-chōme-16-14 Hirano, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0023, Japan
RistoPizza by Napoli sta ca
Ranked 7th in the 2026 '50 Top Pizza' world list, this venue is the sister establishment to the iconic Pizzeria Peppe.
- RistoPizza by Napoli sta caRanked 7th in the 2026 '50 Top Pizza' world list, this venue is the sister establishment to the iconic Pizzeria Peppe.
Japan, 〒106-0041 Tokyo, Minato City, Azabudai, 1-chōme−3−１ ヒルズ タワープラザ ３階
Yakitori Omino
Opened in September 2026 as part of the new Tofrom Yaesu development, this is the latest venture from the acclaimed Yakitori Omino team.
- Yakitori OminoOpened in September 2026 as part of the new Tofrom Yaesu development, this is the latest venture from the acclaimed Yakitori Omino team.
Japan, 〒131-0045 Tokyo, Sumida City, Oshiage, 1-chōme−38−４ 清流ビル 1F
spoonful tokyo デニッシュパン屋専門店
A trendy Danish pastry specialty shop that opened in 2026 near Ueno Park. It has quickly become a local favorite for its exceptionally flaky, buttery danishes and seasonal fruit-topped pastries.
- spoonful tokyo デニッシュパン屋専門店A trendy Danish pastry specialty shop that opened in 2026 near Ueno Park. It has quickly become a local favorite for its exceptionally flaky, buttery danishes and seasonal fruit-topped pastries.
Japan, 〒113-0034 Tokyo, Bunkyo City, Yushima, 3-chōme−42−３ 桂昇上野湯島ビル 1階
モダン地中海料理「セフィーノ / Sefino」
Newly added to the Michelin Guide in September 2026, Sefino offers 'emotional gastronomy' inspired by the chef's Mallorcan heritage.
- モダン地中海料理「セフィーノ / Sefino」Newly added to the Michelin Guide in September 2026, Sefino offers 'emotional gastronomy' inspired by the chef's Mallorcan heritage.
Japan, 〒108-0074 Tokyo, Minato City, Takanawa, 2-chōme−21−２ JWマリオット・ホテル東京 29階
Kappou Shimamura
This 170-year-old historic institution reopened in a new, prestigious location at Tofrom Yaesu in September 2026.
- Kappou ShimamuraThis 170-year-old historic institution reopened in a new, prestigious location at Tofrom Yaesu in September 2026.
Japan, 〒103-0028 Tokyo, Chuo City, Yaesu, 1-chōme−6−１ TOFROM YAESU TOWER 1F
Asakusa Monjayaki Monrō
Known for: Monjayaki. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- Asakusa Monjayaki MonrōKnown for: Monjayaki. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Monjayaki
1-chōme-41-2 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Yoroiya
Known for: Tokyo Shoyu Ramen. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- YoroiyaKnown for: Tokyo Shoyu Ramen. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Tokyo Shoyu Ramen
1-chōme-36-7 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
Ramen Shion
Known for: Tokyo Shoyu Ramen. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- Ramen ShionKnown for: Tokyo Shoyu Ramen. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Tokyo Shoyu Ramen
Japan, 〒169-0075 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Takadanobaba, 2-chōme−6−１０ 関ビル 103
Sushi Azabu
Known for: Edomae Sushi. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- Sushi AzabuKnown for: Edomae Sushi. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Edomae Sushi
Japan, 〒106-0041 Tokyo, Minato City, Azabudai, 1-chōme−3−１ ヒルズタワープラザ 3F
HOBO TACOS
Known for: Mexican Tacos (Sello M Certified). Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- HOBO TACOSKnown for: Mexican Tacos (Sello M Certified). Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Mexican Tacos (Sello M Certified)
6-chōme-21-16 Honchō, Nakano City, Tokyo 164-0012, Japan
Tepito
Known for: Mexican Tacos (Sello M Certified). Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- TepitoKnown for: Mexican Tacos (Sello M Certified). Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Mexican Tacos (Sello M Certified)
3-chōme-19-9 Kitazawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0031, Japan
Kitsuneya
Known for: Wagyu Horumon Stew. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- KitsuneyaKnown for: Wagyu Horumon Stew. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Wagyu Horumon Stew
4-chōme-9-12 Tsukiji, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
Hitsumabushi Bincho
Known for: Hitsumabushi (Grilled Eel). Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- Hitsumabushi BinchoKnown for: Hitsumabushi (Grilled Eel). Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Hitsumabushi (Grilled Eel)
Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 2-chōme−2−１４ マロニエゲート銀座1 12F
Isetan Shinjuku
Known for: Depachika (Department Store Food Hall) Deli Sets. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- Isetan ShinjukuKnown for: Depachika (Department Store Food Hall) Deli Sets. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Depachika (Department Store Food Hall) Deli Sets
3-chōme-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
GRANSTA TOKYO
Known for: Depachika (Department Store Food Hall) Deli Sets. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- GRANSTA TOKYOKnown for: Depachika (Department Store Food Hall) Deli Sets. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Depachika (Department Store Food Hall) Deli Sets
Japan, 〒100-0005 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Marunouchi, 1-chōme−9−１ JR東日本 東京駅構内 B1～1F
Tonkatsu Taihou
Known for: Kaibashira Fry. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- Tonkatsu TaihouKnown for: Kaibashira Fry. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Kaibashira Fry
1-chōme-6-15 Meguro, Meguro City, Tokyo 153-0063, Japan
Marronnier Restaurant
Japan, 〒108-0072 Tokyo, Minato City, Shirokane, 5-chōme−6−２ 2F-B区画
Higashi-Ikebukuro Taishoken - Main Shop
2-chōme-42-8 Minamiikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo 171-0022, Japan
Mensho Kamayoshi
Japan, 〒101-0048 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Kanda Tsukasamachi, 2-chōme−１４−１５ 高梨ビル 1F
2 more spots are on the map in Varedelo.
Researched by Varedelo
Planning notes for Tokyo
Must-try foods in Tokyo
- MonjayakiA Tokyo-original savory pancake and a more liquid cousin to okonomiyaki, famously associated with the Tsukishima district. In 2026, spots like 'Asakusa Monjayaki Monrō' are trending for their interactive experience where diners grill the batter on a tabletop iron plate until it develops a crispy, caramelized bottom.
- Edomae SushiThe classic Tokyo-style sushi using vinegar-seasoned rice and cured fish. As of September 2026, the newly opened 'Sushi Azabu' in the Azabudai Hills complex has become a flagship for modern luxury, offering accessible yet high-end omakase in one of the city's newest architectural landmarks.
- Tokyo Shoyu RamenThe quintessential Tokyo noodle dish featuring a clear, soy-sauce-based chicken and dashi broth. While historic, 2026 favorites like 'Yoroiya' in Asakusa or the recently opened 'Ramen Shion' (which debuted in mid-2026) represent the ongoing perfection of this craft using refined salts and double-chicken consommés.
- Hitsumabushi (Grilled Eel)Though originally from Nagoya, Tokyo-style Unagi (grilled eel) is a major local delicacy. 'Hitsumabushi Bincho' in Ginza is a top 2026 recommendation, where the eel is enjoyed in three stages: plain, with condiments, and finally as 'ochazuke' by pouring hot tea or broth over the rice.
- Mexican Tacos (Sello M Certified)An interesting new trend in Tokyo's 2026 food scene. In September 2026, seven Tokyo restaurants including 'Hobo Tacos' and 'Tepito' were officially recognized by the Mexican government with the 'Sello M' award for culinary authenticity, marking a surge in high-quality Mexican gastronomy in the city.
- Fruit Sando (Seasonal Strawberry & Peach)Fluffy Japanese milk bread filled with whipped cream and premium seasonal fruit. In September 2026, the transition from summer peaches to early autumn varieties is in full swing at boutiques in Shibuya and Harajuku, with high-end versions often fetching over ¥2,000 per sandwich.
Trip guide
Visit Minato CityVisit Minato CityThe official tourism website for Minato City, Tokyo, providing travel guides, event information, and sightseeing maps for areas like Roppongi and Tokyo Tower.
Where to eat in Tokyo: the dishes and their linked places.
When to visit Tokyo
- The best times to visit Tokyo are during spring (late March to April) for cherry blossoms or autumn (November to early December) for vibrant foliage and mild, dry weather. Summers are notoriously hot and humid with a rainy season in June, while winters are cold but generally sunny and clear. Peak tourist crowds and higher prices coincide with the spring blossoms and Golden Week (late April/early May), whereas the winter months offer the fewest crowds and lower costs.
Getting around Tokyo
- International Air Travel (Narita and Haneda) Most visitors arrive via Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND), which offer extensive rail connections like the Narita Express or Tokyo Monorail directly into the city center.
- Tokyo Subway and JR Train Network The city is best navigated using the highly efficient JR Yamanote Loop Line and the interconnected Tokyo Metro and Toei subway systems, which cover nearly every major district and tourist attraction.
- IC Cards (Suica and Pasmo) To travel seamlessly, visitors use rechargeable IC cards like Suica or Pasmo, which allow for tap-and-go entry on almost all trains, buses, and even payments at many convenience stores throughout the city.
Things to know before you go
- Purchase a digital Suica or Pasmo card on your phone for seamless transit payments and convenience store purchases.
- Stand on the left side of escalators and keep noise levels to a minimum while using public transportation.
- Carry a small bag for your trash as public waste bins are rare, and always separate recyclables at designated stations.
- Check for a 'table charge' notice at izakayas, as a small mandatory appetizer is often served and added to the bill.
- Avoid tipping at restaurants and hotels, as exceptional service is included and offering extra cash can cause confusion.
What’s new in Tokyo (September 2026)
- Nanzuka Underground Flagship Gallery: A major new contemporary art space that opened in Shibuya Axsh on September 12, 2026, featuring an inaugural solo exhibition by the late Keiichi Tanaami.
- Shibuya Marui (Wooden Landmark): Japan's first major wooden shopping mall, which opened in summer 2026, trending for its sustainable architecture and a free public rooftop garden.
- Oimachi Tracks: A large-scale 'lifestyle' complex that recently opened next to the train tracks in Shinagawa, featuring a new Hotel Metropolitan, extensive greenery, and a variety of open-air shops and restaurants.
Research receipt
How this Tokyo guide was researched
- Live web search, 14 of 14 research areas completed.
- Places verified against real place data — address, hours and coordinates come from the place record, not the article.
- Researched September 2026. A newer build for Tokyo replaces this page automatically.
Sources checked
Planning questions
What is Tokyo known for?
Tokyo, situated on the eastern coast of Honshu, transitioned from a fishing village known as Edo to the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1603. Following the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the city was renamed Tokyo and became the capital of Japan.
What should I eat in Tokyo?
Start with Monjayaki, Edomae Sushi, Tokyo Shoyu Ramen, and Hitsumabushi (Grilled Eel). Each dish on this page lists the places known for it.
When is the best time to visit Tokyo?
The best times to visit Tokyo are during spring (late March to April) for cherry blossoms or autumn (November to early December) for vibrant foliage and mild, dry weather. Summers are notoriously hot and humid with a rainy season in June, while winters are cold but generally sunny and clear.
How do I get around Tokyo?
Most visitors arrive via Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND), which offer extensive rail connections like the Narita Express or Tokyo Monorail directly into the city center. International Air Travel (Narita and Haneda); Tokyo Subway and JR Train Network; IC Cards (Suica and Pasmo).
How many places are on this Tokyo map?
42 places, each with an address, hours where known, and a line on why it was picked. The map in the app shows them by status so you can walk to the nearest one.
How was this Tokyo guide researched?
Live web research across 14 research areas, cross-checked against real place data, citing 24 sources. Researched September 2026.