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12 minutes readContents
- What to know before visiting Tokyo
- Popular attractions every visitor needs to see
- Hidden gems to experience Tokyo like a local
- Hidden gems to experience Tokyo like a local
- Plan a once-in-a-lifetime Tokyo trip with RateHawk
What to know before visiting Tokyo
A trip to Asia requires a little extra planning, from getting an eSIM to learning some basic language skills. Our in-depth travel guide of “15 things to know before traveling to Japan” covers the must-know information before arrival. Here are a few essential tips everyone should know:
- Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for local trains, food stalls, and vending machines. Convenience stores are often your best option for finding a reliable ATM.
- Always pay in Yen for the best exchange rate and double-check if your bank charges a foreign exchange fee. Most modern banks won’t, and it’s easy to open a basic account to use abroad.
- If travelers are planning to stay primarily in Tokyo, the Japan Rail Pass won’t be a cost-effective option.
- You can reach Tokyo from Narita International Airport by taking the Narita Express train, which takes around an hour.
- Travelers will want to download a PASMO or use a Suica card instead. They can do this ahead of time and add it to their smartphone wallet to make it easy to tap-and-go when using buses, trains, and the subway.
Popular attractions every visitor needs to see
1. Shibuya Crossing
Where to stay: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu
There’s more to Shibuya than just the wildest pedestrian crossing in the world. The five-way street crossing is one of the most photographed spots in Japan and while it’s fun to experience the madness yourself, travelers can also opt to watch it unfold from above at the Starbucks near Shibuya Station instead.
Shibuya is one of the most photographed spots in Japan.
Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock
Although most tourists head here during the day for photographs, Shibuya comes to life at night. Two of the main department stores, Don Quijote and Tokyu Hands, are in this neighborhood, and there’s no shortage of restaurants for a last-minute walk-in dinner.
2. Tokyo Skytree
Where to stay: Prostyle Ryokan Tokyo Asakusa
Fans of panoramic views and seeing a city from above will want to head to Skytree. Think of it as Japan’s answer to New York’s “Top of the Rock.” Standing at over 2,000ft tall, the Skytree is hard to miss! Days of good visibility can make it easy to see Mt. Fuji without having to leave the city. Oshiage and Tokyo Skytree Station are the closest options when taking public transport.
The Skytree is hard to miss!
Photo by Sean Pavone on Shutterstock
It’s open daily from 10 am to 9 pm with final admission at 8 pm. Same-day tickets will cost JPY 3100 ($20 USD) or JPY 2700 ($17) when booked in advance.
3. Harajuku
Where to stay: Grand Hyatt Tokyo
Harajuku is one of the most famous areas of the city and is synonymous with the cute (kawaii) side of Japan. It’s mainly popular with younger tourists who want to visit the animal cafes, sample street food, or explore the alley full of independent boutiques.
This area is a great option for travelers hoping to buy vintage designer items, usually for a more affordable price than in Western countries. It sits between Shinjuku and Shibuya and deserves at least an afternoon or evening in any Tokyo itinerary.
4. Senso-ji
Where to stay: Richmond Hotel Asakusa
Senso-ji is one of the most recognizable buildings in the city. Located in Asakusa, this red Buddhist temple is easy to reach by taking the Ginza subway line from the city center. Entry into the temple is free, and guests can even have their fortune told in the main temple area before being covered in incense to bring good luck. It’s one of the best free things to do in Tokyo.
Senso-ji is one of the best free things to do in Tokyo.
Photo by Noppasin Wongchum on Shutterstock
5. Tokyo Tower
Where to stay: The Prince Park Tower Tokyo
It’s easy to write Tokyo Tower off as simply being Asia’s answer to the Eiffel Tower. In reality, this steel tower is actually 3 meters taller than its French inspiration and was the tallest structure in Japan until the Skytree was completed in 2012. Visitors can get a view of the city from the main observation deck, 150 meters above the ground, either by taking the 600-step staircase or the elevator.
Tokyo Tower is actually 3 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower.
Photo by Sean Pavone on Shutterstock
The top deck sits a further 100 meters higher, and tourists can choose a ticket for both observation decks (JPHN 1700) or a cheaper ticket (JPY 1200) that only provides access to the main deck. Onarimon, Akabanebashi, and Kamiyacho stations are all within a few minutes’ walking distance.
Hidden gems to experience Tokyo like a local
1. Tsukiji market
Where to stay: Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
Japan is famous for its cuisine, and tourists brought to the country by their taste buds should head to Tsukiji Market. It’s been active for over 80 years and even hosts a daily tuna auction. This hidden gem is often overlooked by visitors, but it’s the perfect option for a casual lunch where travelers’ money will go further, and they’re guaranteed to get fresher and higher-quality sushi than they’ll find in any tourist area.
Tsukiji Market is the perfect option for a casual lunch.
Photo by Alp Galip on Shutterstock
2. The arcades of Ikebukuro
Where to stay: MIMARU Tokyo Ikebukuro
Japan is the home of Nintendo, and it’s no surprise that the locals love to spend their time hitting up an arcade. Ikebukuro, which has its own metro stop, is known for its multi-level arcades, providing everything visitors need for an entertaining afternoon or evening.
Ikebukuro is known for its multi-level arcades.
Photo by Hiroshi-Mori-Stock on Shutterstock
Animate offers some of the best anime and manga products, while GIGO Ikebukuro No.1 has walls full of classic claw machines across three floors. It’s a great option for families traveling with kids and even solo travelers looking for an alternative to an evening of drinking Sake or Shochu.
3. Book a private booth at a karaoke bar
Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya by IHG
Karaoke bars are everywhere in Tokyo, and they’re surprisingly cheap. Private booth prices are set per person, usually at around JPYY 1000 ($6 USD) for a half-hour or hour session. Drinks and food are charged separately, making it the perfect add-on to a date night adventure or for groups looking for a cheap activity in Tokyo. Karaoke Kan is the most famous karaoke bar after it appeared in the movie “Lost in Translation” and has over 100 locations throughout the city.
Karaoke bars are everywhere in Tokyo.
Photo by Hiroshi-Mori-Stock on Shutterstock
4. Attend a Sumo wrestling match
Where to stay: Nohga Hotel Akihabara Tokyo
Another thing Japan is famous for is its sumo wrestling, but most tourists don’t realize they can attend a match or a practice session. Most matches take place in January, May, and September, with 15-day tournaments. Outside of these months, visitors can go to a sumo stable to attend a practice session, offering a more intimate and closer experience. Onlookers are invited to sit on the floor (and stay quiet!) with most sessions lasting over an hour.
Another thing Japan is famous for is its sumo wrestling.
Photo by Takashi Images on Shutterstock
5. Book a traditional tea experience
Where to stay: Sakura Fleur Aoyama
Japan is a country that’s obsessed with tea. Even if you’re normally a coffee drinker, it’s worth considering taking part in a traditional experience. Sakurai Tea Experience is just a short walk from Omotesando Station in the Spiral shopping mall and costs JPY 6000 ($38 USD), offering a relaxing experience led by a tea master with group sizes limited to just 8 people. While it’s cheaper to opt for just one type of tea, choosing the full course offers a whistlestop tour of Japan’s tea culture.
Japan is a country that’s obsessed with tea.
Photo by Lokyo Multimedia JP on Shutterstock
Unforgettable splurge-worthy experiences
1. Visiting DisneySea, the Best Disney Park in the World
Where to stay: Disney Ambassador Hotel
While Orlando is often seen as the theme park capital of the world, it’s hard to deny that Asia has the best Disney park. DisneySea is the most unique Disney theme park, catering more to adults than the Florida parks. It’s where you’ll find one-of-a-kind rides that aren’t available in other parks (including some serious thrill rides) with themed ports that don’t rely on Disney IPs to bring in guests.
DisneySea is the most unique Disney theme park.
Photo by liu yu shan on Shutterstock
Tourists who only have time for one park should choose DisneySea over its more traditional “Tokyo Disneyland” counterpart, with one-day tickets costing just JPY 8900 ($60 USD) for weekdays. Tickets go on sale exactly two months in advance, with a more expensive 1-day park hopper ticket also available.
2. Visiting the Ghibli Museum
Where to stay: Kichijoji Dai-ichi Hotel, Tokyo
We predicted that “fandom travel” would be one of the biggest trends in 2026, and many visitors to Japan are inspired to make their visit after falling in love with the Studio Ghibli movies. It’s no surprise then that the Ghibli Museum is one of the most popular attractions (and very difficult to get tickets for).
The Ghibli Museum is one of the most popular attractions.
Photo by cowardlion on Shutterstock
Tickets go on sale on the 10th of each month for dates for the following month and go almost instantly. 6 tickets can be bought in one transaction and cost JPY 1000 ($4 USD) per adult, but fans of the animation studio will want to bring plenty of extra cash for hitting the gift shop and on-site themed café. You can reach the museum in Mitaka by taking a 20-minute train from Shinjuku Station. This whimsical experience is perfect for Studio Ghibli fans or if you’re traveling with kids who love Totoro.
3. Discovering the Wizarding World at Warner Bros. Studio Tour
Where to stay: Hotel Cadenza Tokyo
Harry Potter fans are in for a treat! Tokyo’s Warner Bros. Studio Tour opened its own “Making of Harry Potter” experience in 2023, which mirrors the tours offered in London. It features props, costumes, and sets from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts movies with no shortage of photo ops (and plenty of butterbeer!).
Tokyo’s Warner Bros. Studio Tour opened its own “Making of Harry Potter” experience in 2023.
Photo by Dasian on Shutterstock
Just like the Ghibli museum, tickets sell out fast, but are more expensive at JPY 6300 ($40 USD), although this tour is a full-day experience. Jump on the Oedo Line at Shinjuku Station and take the 20-minute train to Toshimaen Studio, just a short walk from the tour.
4. Taking a day trip to Mount Fuji
Where to stay: Century Southern Tower Hotel
Seeing Mount Fuji is a bucket list experience for many travelers and it’s a great day trip from Tokyo. Kawaguchiko in the Fuji Five Lakes region is the easiest place to reach from the city and also offers some of the best views.
Seeing Mount Fuji is a bucket list experience for many travelers.
Photo by Guitar photographer on Shutterstock
Tourists are more likely to get a cloud-free view from Kawaguchiko, especially during winter or an early morning excursion. It’s a tourist-friendly area and ideal for an overnight stay with direct trains on the Fujikyu Railway, while buses are a great alternative for budget travelers.
5. Catching a show with a world-renowned star
Where to stay: Hotel Grand Bach Tokyo Ginza
There’s no shortage of theatre shows available in Tokyo, from traditional Kabuki productions to star-studded musicals. Kabukiza Theatre in Ginza is the best choice for Kabuki, while Tokyo Shiki Theatres often host the biggest Broadway-style shows.
Kabukiza Theatre in Ginza is the best choice for Kabuki.
Photo by Lina Sariff on Shutterstock
Sunset Boulevard is opening in July 2026 with Sarah Brightman, who originated the role of Christine Daae in The Phantom of the Opera. Western shows are performed in English with Japanese subtitles.
Plan a once-in-a-lifetime Tokyo trip with RateHawk
No two Tokyo itineraries will ever be the same. This metropolis has something to offer every type of tourist, from theme park enthusiasts to foodies searching for the best sushi in the world. At RateHawk, we make it easy to curate packages that make these bucket list experiences a reality.
Tokyo has something to offer every type of tourist.
Photo by Sean Pavone on Shutterstock
Unlock the potential of your travel agency by registering for RateHawk today to get instant access to over 2.9 million accommodation options worldwide, including throughout Japan, along with access to 330+ suppliers for air tickets, transfers, car rentals, and other travel services.
Cover image: Photo by Andre Benz on Unsplash
