12 fun things to do in Tokyo that make it one of a kind

Japan’s lively capital city, Tokyo is truly unlike anywhere else. A mix of traditional and ultra-modern, there’s no end of unique and fun things to do in Tokyo.

From speeding through the city streets on a go-kart or spending a magical day at Disneyland to relaxing in a peaceful onsen or sampling fresh sashimi at the Tsukiji Fish Market, there’s something for every type of traveler.

This guide will help you discover the city’s coolest activities, whether it’s exploring the world-famous food scene or enjoying Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife.

Top fun things to do in Tokyo at a glance

Fun things to do as a couple: Race go-karts through the city and enjoy the views from Tokyo Tower.

Fun activities in Tokyo for kids and families: Spend a day at Tokyo Disneyland and see the interactive art exhibits at TeamLab Planets.

Fun things to do on your own: Soak in a traditional onsen and hang out at the arcades of Akihabara.

Fun food experiences: Take part in a traditional tea ceremony and explore the massive Tsukiji Fish Market.

Fun things to do in Tokyo as a couple

1. Race through the city streets on a go-kart

Jump into a real-life video game as you speed through Tokyo’s streets in a go-kart, racing against your other half while decked out in silly costumes. Zoom past the famous Shibuya crossing and weave through neighborhoods like Harajuku and Omotesando in what has to be one of the most unique things to do in Tokyo.

Insider tip

Most companies offer free costumes in the form of character onesies. If you don’t like the idea of sharing or you want a specific costume, you can also bring your own. Akihabara and Harajuku are two of the best neighborhoods in Tokyo to get costumes and cosplay.

2. Enjoy the views from Tokyo Tower

Enjoy sweeping views over Tokyo’s skyline from the Tokyo Tower, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, often compared to Paris’ Eiffel Tower. Standing 333 meters tall, the striking red structure features two observation decks, offering views as far as Mount Fuji on a clear day.

Best time to visit

Visit after dark to see the tower’s famous lights, one of the top things to see in Tokyo at night. There’s an urban legend that if you catch the moment the tower’s lights turn off at midnight with your partner, you’ll be granted eternal love and happiness together.

Address and opening hours

4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011. Open daily, 9:00 AM-11:00 PM.

3. Take a day trip to Mount Fuji

Escape the busy streets of Japan’s bustling capital with a day trip to Mount Fuji. Visit epic viewpoints and capture stunning photos of one of the world’s most famous mountains. Enjoy the tranquil waters of Lake Kawaguchi and explore historic villages around the base of the mountain.

Best time to visit

Visit Mount Fuji during the spring and you can enjoy the gorgeous cherry blossoms in Oishi Park, located on the banks of Lake Kawaguchi.

Fun things to do in Tokyo with kids

4. Be amazed at TeamLab Planets

Step into an immersive world of interactive art installations at TeamLab Planets, one of the most unique museums in Tokyo. The world-famous digital art gallery engages all five senses and blurs the boundaries between the self and exhibits.

Highlights

Stroll through a room of infinite mirrors and lights, wade through shallow water in a digital koi pond, and sink into a black hole as the floor gives way below you.

Address and opening hours

6 Chome-1-16 Toyosu, Koto City, 135-0061. Open daily, 9:00 AM-10:00 PM.

5. Spend a magical day at Tokyo Disneyland

One of the most fun things to do in Tokyo with the entire family is to spend a magical day at Tokyo Disneyland, the first Disney theme park built outside the US. Enjoy classic rides and magical parades while mingling with your favorite Disney characters.

Best time to visit

For smaller crowds, avoid Japanese holidays such as Golden Week (late April to early May), Obon (mid-August), and around Christmas and New Year. These periods are when the park gets the busiest.

Address and opening hours

1-1 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba, 279-0031. Open daily, 8:00 AM-10:00 PM.

6. Learn how to be a Japanese samurai

Discover the world of traditional Japanese warriors with a hands-on samurai and ninja experience at Tokyo’s Samurai Ninja Museum. Kids will love dressing up and learning authentic moves, like swordsmanship and throwing ninja stars, in this unique cultural activity.

Insider tip

For a more educational experience, arrive early to explore the museum’s exhibits on samurai history before your session.

Address and opening hours

1 Chome-8-13, Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0035. Open daily, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM.

Fun things to do in Tokyo on your own

7. Go bar hopping in Shinjuku

Just because you’re traveling solo doesn’t mean you have to miss out on Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife. For one of the most fun activities in Tokyo after-hours, head to Golden-Gai in Shinjuku, an area known for its hole-in-the-wall bars that seat no more than a handful of drinkers, making it a great place to meet new people.

Insider tip

An even easier way to make new friends on a night out in Tokyo is with a small group Shinjuku bar crawl, where a local guide will take you to several of the area’s hotspots.

8. Take a peaceful soak in an onsen

Unwind after a day of exploring with a relaxing soak in an onsen, Japan’s traditional hot spring baths. Onsens are known for their therapeutic properties, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating spa experience in Tokyo.

Insider tip

Remember to follow traditional onsen etiquette, including thoroughly washing before entering the baths, not letting your towel touch the water, and keeping your voice low to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. You’ll also need to cover up tattoos in more traditional onsens.

9. Hang out at the arcades of Akihabara

If gaming is your thing, don’t miss Akihabara. Known as Tokyo’s anime and manga district, this lively neighborhood is famous for its many quirky merch shops, unusual Maid cafes, and massive multi-level arcades like GiGO and Taito Station. Open until the early hours, the huge arcades have everything from retro classics to the latest releases and VR experiences.

Best time to visit

Though the arcades get busier in the evening, after work is an exciting time to watch the locals who play the games with incredible skill and intensity — it’s like watching pros in action!

Fun things to do in Tokyo for food and drinks

10. Take part in a traditional tea ceremony

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture with a traditional tea ceremony in Tokyo. This calming ritual — which can be traced back to Zen Buddhism — teaches you the classical art of tea preparation, giving you a taste of Japan’s rich heritage and mindfulness practices.

Insider tip

For an authentic experience, join a ceremony in a historic teahouse. Many of the best teahouses are located in the districts of Asakusa and Ueno.

11. Visit Tsukiji Fish Market

Get your foodie fix at the bustling Tsukiji Fish Market, one of the world’s largest fish markets and the place where Tokyo’s best sushi chefs buy their seafood every morning. Browse the many colorful stalls and street food vendors, offering everything from sashimi to grilled seafood skewers.

Inside tip

Join a Tokyo food tour of the market to learn more about its 80+ year history and discover rare seafood and specialty spices.

Address and opening hours

4 Chome, Tsukiji, Chuo City, 104-0045. Open daily, 5:00 AM-2:00 PM.

12. Take a sushi-making class

Master the Japanese art of sushi — the country’s most popular food — with a hands-on sushi-making class in Tokyo. Guided by experienced local chefs, you’ll learn to create beautifully rolled sushi.

Highlights

Many classes include a local market tour beforehand, where you can learn about the fresh ingredients professional sushi chefs get from the market each morning.

FAQs

What are some unique things you can only do in Tokyo?

Some unique things to do in Tokyo include riding go-karts through the city’s streets dressed as cartoon characters, learning how to become a samurai at the Samurai Ninja Museum, or taking a sushi-making class at the famous Tsukiji Fish Market.

What are some cool activities in Tokyo at night?

There’s no shortage of fun nighttime activities in Tokyo, from seeing the iconic lights of Tokyo Tower to enjoying the arcades of Akihabara or bar hopping around the lively hole-in-the-wall bars of the Shinjuku district.

What are some family-friendly fun activities in Tokyo?

Tokyo's family-friendly activities include exciting amusement parks like Disneyland, DisneySea, and Yomiuri Land and quirky attractions such as TeamLab Planets and the Samurai Ninja Museum.

Are there any fun day trips from Tokyo that I should consider?

A day trip from Tokyo to Mount Fuji is a must. Nikko offers stunning temples, waterfalls, and hot springs, ideal for nature and history lovers. For something a little closer, Kamakura is famous for its Great Buddha statue, historic temples, and peaceful beaches.

Are there any cool activities in Tokyo for free?

Tokyo doesn’t need to be as expensive as most people think. Some fun free activities in Tokyo include wandering across the famous Shibuya Crossing, admiring the unique fashion of Harajuku, hunting out the city’s most beautiful shrines, or exploring the peaceful Ueno Park.