It shouldn’t be surprising that Tokyo is one of the world’s top destinations this year. TripAdvisor puts Tokyo at the top of its 2024 Best of the Best Destinations list. In the first place, Japan’s capital and the world’s largest city has something for everyone. This includes major attractions, historic landmarks, and neon skyscrapers. Of course, you’ll also be in foodie heaven, with the world’s most Michelin-starred restaurants and under-the-radar izakayas. If you’re visiting Tokyo this year, here are some of the best attractions you can enjoy.
Top 2024 Attractions in Tokyo, Japan
Akihabara
Shinjuku may be the best spot to see enormous neon displays in Tokyo. However, it would be best to overlook Akihabara as an attraction northwest of Chiyoda City. Also known as Akihabara Electric Town, it’s a trendy neighborhood filled with electronics and anime stores. That’s not to mention its many maid cafes and rows of Pachinko game machines. In addition, you should see other landmarks like Sega buildings and 10-story Radio Kaikan filled with otaku stores. Akihabara is easily accessible by the Tokyo Metro or JR Railway to its namesake transit station.
Related: Theme Cafes in Tokyo
Ginza
Known for its high-end shopping, the Ginza district can be compared to Fifth Avenue in New York. That’s because many luxury stores like Chanel, Gucci, Prada TASAKI, and Wako can be found here. However, there is much more to Ginza, like Michelin Star restaurants, Kabuki theater, and Tsukiji Outer Market. This fish market was the world’s largest before Toyosu Market opened in 2018. In addition, you must experience the bustling Ginza Crossing amid glistening neon lights in the heart of this neighborhood.
The World’s Largest Fish Markets
If you only have time to visit one Tokyo fish market, you should visit Tsukiji. While it’s no longer the world’s largest fish market, it’s still the city’s most famous. However, renowned fish auctions are no longer held here; instead, they are held at the newer Toyosu Market. Despite this, Tsukiji is still a major attraction and a haven for street food and affordable retail goods. As for Toyosu, it’s an entirely different atmosphere, although still worth a closer look.
Imperial Palace
Whether you wish to attend a guided tour or go solo, Tokyo’s Imperial Palace is a must-see attraction. After all, it’s been the official residence of the Emperor of Japan since 1868 and an essential part of Japanese history. Located in the heart of Tokyo in the Chiyoda district, the property covers 280 acres and is surrounded by moats. The history of the Palace grounds dates to the 15th century when the Edo Castle was built. However, much of the property was destroyed during World War II and rebuilt years later. While you cannot tour the interior of the Palace buildings, tours are offered in Japanese and English. Of course, you can walk alone to tour the gardens and see historical buildings.
Tours of the Imperial Palace
Held twice daily on Tuesdays through Saturdays, tours of the Palace last 75 minutes. While no admission is free for tours, you should make reservations online in advance, if you don’t mind. Tours are popular, and same-day passes are in high demand. The Imperial Palace is a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station and is served by several other subway stations.
Meiji Jingu Shrine
Just north of the center of Shibuya, Meiji Jingu is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Built shortly after their deaths, Meiji Jingu is one of Japan’s most important shrines and certainly among the most visited. Covering about 175 acres, the shrine features several points of interest, including two enormous torii (gates) and its massive shrine, rebuilt after World War II. You may also find the extensive collection of sake barrels on display as a sacred offering to Japan’s first modern emperor of particular interest.
Museums in Tokyo
As the world’s largest city, Tokyo has an extensive collection of world-class museums. Japan’s oldest and most significant is the Tokyo National Museum, with a permanent collection of over 120,000 objects. However, there are many other museums that you may find of particular interest. For instance, you may like the National Arts Center of Contemporary Art or the Edo-Tokyo Museum. Then there are even more, like the National Museum of Modern Art, Yayoi Kusama Museum, and the immersive teamLab Planets. Of course, there are sports museums, like the Tokyo Olympic Museum and the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame. That’s not to mention cartoon-related museums like the Ghibli Museum, Toei Animation, and Snoopy Museum Tokyo.
Related: How to Use the London, England Subway
Odaiba
An artificial island in Tokyo Bay, Odaiba has many family-friendly attractions. For instance, the indoor amusement park Tokyo Joypolis has rides and virtual reality experiences. Then, there is the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation and Futuristic Architecture. That’s nothing of an onsen (hot springs), a giant Gundam (like a transformer), and even a Statue of Liberty replica. Of course, there are spectacular views of the Rainbow Bridge and the impressive Fuji TV building. Lastly, one of Tokyo’s newest attractions is the Immersive Fort Tokyo, the “world’s first immersive theme park.”
Senso-ji Temple
Of the many historical temples in Tokyo, place Seno-ji Temple at the top of your list. Dating back to the sixth century, it’s the oldest temple in the capital city and among the most important. Built-in 645 AD to honor Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, Senso-ji features several notable attractions. This includes the main gate, Kaminarimon, with its enormous red lantern, and the Nakamise-dori historic shopping area. Together with Meiji Shrine, Sensoji Temple represents the world’s most visited religious site. You can find Senso-ji in Asakusa, with its namesake station just a short walk away.
(credit: Carl Rosa)
Shibuya Crossing
If this is your first visitor to Tokyo and can handle large crowds, then you must visit Shibuya Crossing. After all, it’s the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing, with about 2,500 people crossing every two minutes and over 2.4 million daily. In other words, it’s a form of controlled pandemonium with people using five crosswalks. Yet what makes the Crossing even more stunning is its enormous advertising displays and glittering neon. While in the Times Square of Tokyo, visit the Shibuya Sky observation deck near the Shibuya subway station. Also near this transit station is Sakura Street, known for its colorful cherry blossoms.
Hachiko Statue
Another point of interest is the statue of Hachiko, the famous Akita dog who waited outside the station each day to greet his owner. Even after his master passed away, Hachiko waited at Shibuya station for the next nine years until his own passing in 1935. By the way, Hachiko’s grave can be found at Aoyama Cemetery, in the Tokyo special ward of Minato City. In addition, his pelt was preserved and is now a taxidermy display at the National Science Museum of Japan.
Harajuku
While Shibuya is best known for its pedestrian crossing, another attraction in this special ward is worth noting. In fact, it needs a section of its own. That would be Harajuku, one of Japan’s top youth culture and fashion centers. With easy transit access from the Harajuku station, you’ll be in the liveliest spot along Takeshita Street. While it’s a narrow walkway, you’ll quickly understand why it’s famous for the younger crowd and people of all ages. All along Takeshita Dori, you’ll see boutiques, casual dining, and kawaii (cute) clothing.
Shinjuku
It is the only thing in Tokyo that can compare to Shinjuku for dining options and nightlife. Famous for neon lights, towering skyscrapers, bars, and izakayas, Shinjuku needs more than a day’s visit. That’s because there is so much to see and do, including the iconic alleys of Golden Gai and the lively Kabukicho entertainment district. That’s to say, nothing of the Instagram-friendly 3D calico cat on a giant digital billboard. In all, Shinjuku has the most restaurants and the most skyscrapers in any district in Tokyo. That’s not to mention that Shinjuku Station is the busiest transit station in the world. While Kabukicho has its qualities, be sure to visit Golden Gai and Omoide Yokocho. Lastly, if time permits, there’s also a free observation deck at the Metropolitan Government Building.
Related: World’s Best Cities to See Neon Lights
Tokyo Disneyland
Looking much like the original, Tokyo Disneyland Resort was the first Disney park to open outside of the U.S. It has themed areas like Adventureland and Tomorrowland and Disney-themed rides. Moreover, you can enjoy parades, live entertainment, and food items like other Disney parks. However, the biggest surprise is that park admission is much less than Disneyland or Walt Disney World. Prices are about 50 percent better than what you would find in the U.S. In addition to Tokyo Disneyland is its sister park, Tokyo Disney Sea, and many Disney hotels. A new hotel, Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel, is opening on June 6.
Tokyo DisneySea
Disneyland is your best option between the two Disney attractions in Tokyo. However, DisneySea is adjacent to Tokyo Disney Resort. DisneySea is so impressive it was named the world’s best theme park in the 2022 Applause Award. Covering 176 acres, DisneySea features seven themed areas, rides, and attractions. This includes familiar Disney favorites like 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and Indiana Jones Adventure. To reach DisneySea from Tokyo Disneyland, you can take the Disney Resort Line for a small fee.
Tokyo Skytree
Completed in 2012, Tokyo Skytree is the world’s tallest tower at 634 meters or 2,080 feet tall. It’s also the Kanto region’s primary radio and television station and a significant tourist attraction in Tokyo. The Skytree features Japan’s two highest observation decks at 350 meters (1148 feet) and 450 meters (1,476 feet). Advance tickets can be received online, starting at 1,800 yen ($12) for the Tempo Deck (350m). A combo ticket that allows you access to the Tempo Deck and Tempo Galleria (450m) starts at 2,700 yen ($18) for adults. Please note that weekend rates are higher for any category of ticket. Regardless, you will have panoramic views of Tokyo from this attraction and can see Mount Fuji on clear days.
Tokyo Tower
At nearly 1,100 feet (333 meters) high, it’s no longer the tallest structure in Japan. On the other hand, Tokyo Tower is probably the most familiar, similar to the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Completed in 1958, Tokyo Tower was the world’s tallest tower and a symbol of the city’s economic re-emergence. Today, it remains a popular tourist attraction, with an observation deck on the main deck. Moreover, Japan’s largest eSports park can be found here, making visiting Tokyo Tower much more appealing. The main deck and Top Deck Tours are open year-round, and adult tickets are 1,200 yen ($7.99) and 3,000 yen ($19.98). In addition, there are discount tickets for children, elementary and junior high, and high school ages. The closest subway station is at Akabanebashi station on the Oedo line.
(credit: Warner Bros. Studios)
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo
If you’re traveling with children, then you might want to visit Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo. Opened last summer, this major attraction features recreations of famous scenes and props from Harry Potter movies. For example, you can walk through Hogwarts Castle and pose next to a replica of the Express. In addition, you can walk through Victorian-era Diagon Alley, see the Ministry of Magic, and see Hogwarts costumes. The first Warner Bros. Studio Tour to open in Asia, it’s the world’s largest Harry Potter indoor attraction. Located northwest of Tokyo city center, you can take an Ikebukuro train or Oedo subway to the Toshimaen station.
Related: How to Use the Tokyo Subway
About the Author
Randy Yagi is an award-winning freelance writer who served as the National Travel Writer for CBS from 2012 to 2019. More than 900 of his stories still appear in syndication across 23 CBS websites, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. During his peak years with CBS, Randy had a reported digital audience reach of 489 million and 5.5 million monthly visitors. Additionally, his stories have appeared in the Daily Meal, CBS News, CBS Radio, Engadget, NBC.com, NJ.com, and Radio.com. He earned a Media Fellowship from Stanford University.
