Tokyo has long been an elusive destination for American travelers. The unexpected fusion of ancient traditions with cutting edge modernity is incredibly fascinating. Every corner of the city has a personality that sucks you in and makes you want to discover more. Somehow hidden between the towering modern buildings, you find tranquility in a temples surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens. From one neighborhood to the next, you feel the city’s personality shift as you discover an entirely new place.
Imagine a city where ancient traditions meet futuristic innovation – This is the Tokyo you should know. If Tokyo Japan is the first place you visit outside of the US, you are in for a treat. This city challenges stereotypes and pushes you to do more than you ever expected. Get prepared to discover all of the cultural treasures it has to offer as work your way through this mysterious city like a pro.
Forget everything you think you know about Japan. Everyday is new. One minute you are pushing through the crowds to visit a historic temple and the next ordering your lunch from a robot in a restaurant where everything is completely automated. With the right itinerary, you can experience the best of Tokyo without feeling overwhelmed.
Tokyo: The Must-Know City for First-Time Visitors
You can easily become overwhelmed by a visit to Tokyo. The city just has so many layers from serene temple mornings to neon-lit nights it is mind boggling. Yet through it all there is a feeling of honor and pride in the city by the residents and the people that visit. The fact that there are no garbage bins on the street and there is no garbage scattered anywhere is a testament to the level of respect you’ll find here.
If you really want to get to know Tokyo, move beyond the surface level flash and explore like a local. That might not be for your first visit. It’s a city where every neighborhood has a unique story waiting to be explored. I’m positive this curated listed of experiences will help to move Tokyo to the top of your travel bucket list.
Shibuya Neighborhood
Undoubtedly you’ve heard of the busiest street crossing in the world; Shibuya Scramble. Here a record 2 million people forge their way across this intersection every single day. Mind blowing.
If you want to get the best vantage point to witness this incredible crossing, head up to the L’Occitane Cafe on one corner or the Starbucks on the other. Capture the dynamic scene with a quick time-lapse or slow-motion video for an unforgettable Instagram post.
While the crossing should be on your list, you would be missing out if you don’t crave out time to visit the surrounding streets. At every turn you discover something fascinating. This is a great neighborhood to explore some of Tokyo’s nightlife.
After dark, Shibuya transforms into a neon wonderland with busy nightclubs clubs and bars that showcase Tokyo’s nightlife, giving you a taste of both tradition and innovation. Just be careful when wandering through and interacting with the women offering massages. You might get a bit more than expected.
Don’t miss the Hachiko Statue—this beloved symbol of loyalty is a popular meeting point and a must-see for its heartwarming backstory. While you are in the neighborhood pop into any of the quirky cafés and themed restaurants that offer unique dining experiences, perfect for those looking to dive into Tokyo’s pop culture. The neighborhood is packed with dining options from traditional to trendy.
Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple
Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s most historic neighborhoods where you can get a glimpse into traditional Japan. Most visitors make their way here to have a peek at Senso-ji Temple.
This temple alone brings a ton of visitors to the neighborhood which means it gets extremely busy. Nonetheless, it would feel wrong to come to Tokyo and not visit its oldest Buddhist temple which dates back over 1,300 years.
The entrance is marked by the iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) with its massive red lantern—an unmissable photo op and cultural icon.
Combine your visit to Senso-ji with a leisurely walk along the Sumida River for stunning views and a peaceful retreat from the buzzing temple. Enjoy a rickshaw ride around the district for a unique, authentic perspective on old Tokyo.
Pro Tip: Plan your visit during the weekdays and earlier in the morning for a more intimate experience.
Ginza
Ginza is a shoppers paradise, if you have a lot of money to spend. It’s Tokyo’s most famous and upmarket shopping and entertainment district.
The neighborhood exudes an air of refined energy and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its blend of luxury, culture, and everyday elegance.
Here you’ll find the flagship stores of some of Tokyo’s favorite brands like Onitsuka Tiger. You can also find some fabulous vintage stores here if you are looking to score some high end designer goods at a discount.
Beyond shopping, Ginza is home to sophisticated art galleries, traditional tea houses, and exclusive dining experiences where you can sample the finest sushi or kaiseki cuisine. Here you can find everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to charming, intimate izakayas. It’s the perfect neighborhood for a little bit of indulgence.
Shinjuku
Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Known for its nightlife, Shinjuku boasts a wide array of bars, clubs, and live music venues, especially in areas like Kabukicho, Tokyo’s most famous entertainment district.
If you are looking for karoke this is one place to dive in and do it. Shinjuku is a karaoke lover’s dream. Here you can find the trendy chains and the more intimate local venues to sing your heart out.
Of course, no good neighborhood in Tokyo would be complete without some amazing shopping. Like most areas in Tokyo you can find a little bit of everything here.
If you are looking for a break from the busy streets of the area, you should know that Shinjuku has a beautifully landscaped park perfect for a quiet escape – Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
Don’t leave the area without exploring Omoide Yokocho also known as “Memory Lane” or “Piss Alley.” You’ll be glad that you did.
Ebisunishi
When you tire of the tourist crowds, head over the Ebisunishi (a neighborhood inside a neighborhood). This neighborhood offers a refreshing balance of local authenticity. It’s here that you get to hang with the locals and get a more intimate glimpse of Tokyo.
Like with most neighborhoods you’ll find some very cool restaurants with more of an authentic vibe. I found this udon noodle spot that was absolutely delicious and a fraction of the cost of the restaurants in the more touristy areas.
It was here that I found some of the coolest bars in Tokyo. The mixologist at Bar Trench really take their craft seriously which means you get some mind blowing cocktails. We even found a bar that was non smoking (a rarity in Japan).
Tsukiji Outer Market
Undoubtedly you have heard about the amazing seafood you can find in Japan. In fact, Japan’s fish auction has been known to command record breaking tuna sales. You can see the action firsthand at Tsukji Market. Come early in the morning when it’s busy with locals and the freshest seafood is on display.
When you are finished snapping photos of the unfamiliar seafood, head out to the Outer Market to wander through stalls selling everything from sushi-grade fish to unique shellfish and seaweed.
The market is lined with small restaurants and street vendors offering traditional Japanese dishes like tamago (sweet omelette), grilled seafood, and freshly made sushi. One of the most famous sushi restaurants in Tokyo can be found here. You’ll see lines of patrons waiting for their turn at the counter to have a bite of some of the freshest sushi in the world.
Look for lesser-known stalls tucked away in narrow alleys, where you can discover unique, homemade specialties. Take some time to learn more but the food culture in Japan while you are here. The vendors are proud and don’t mind sharing details of their stories.
Tips for Visiting Tokyo
Before you venture out on your first visit to Tokyo, there are a few things that you should know that will make your visit better. The country is steeped in tradition and respect is paramount. You’ll notice it in everything from the tone of voice in conversations to removing your shoes to enter many establishments. These cultural nuance are a part of what makes Japan special. Watch my video below to learn more.
Getting around Tokyo is a breeze. The public transportation is incredibly easy to use and very clean. From grabbing a bus at the airport to taking the train to a popular tourist site, you’ll find little reason to catch a taxi. Ride share services are available and you might be surprised to see the taxi and ride share services work in concert.
Visiting Tokyo as a Black Traveler
The first time I visited Japan some 10 years ago, I experienced the curious stares and an almost paparazzi like celebrity moment. Young students flocked to us to take photos in multiple places. I don’t recall running into many Black American tourist while there. So we were treated as fascinating creatures. It was pretty strange.
Fast forward to my most recent visit and it was totally different. Black tourist were everywhere. And with that the stares practically have disappeared. Our hotel even had a Black singer performing RnB music four nights a week. A dramatic difference from my previous visit. I felt like the city was ready for us.
My Perspective
Tokyo is a city that will boggle your mind. The way the city has been able to blend ancient traditions with modern touches can teach us all something. Make sure you plan your visit wisely with enough time to experience it fully.
Step out of your comfort zone and dive deeper into the culture. Spend the time to understand the things that stand out as unique and go back home with a richer understanding of this elusive country.
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FAQs About Tokyo: The Tokyo You Should Know
Q: What is the best time to visit Tokyo?
A: The best time to visit Tokyo is during the shoulder seasons—spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November)—when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded.
Q: How do I navigate Tokyo’s public transportation system?
A: Tokyo’s public transportation is efficient and user-friendly. Purchase a prepaid IC card (like Suica or Pasmo), use Google Maps for real-time directions, and don’t be afraid to ask station staff for help.
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