Tokyo is loud, bright, and that’s exactly why it sticks with you. This guide isn’t about checking out all the must-see landmarks. It’s for curious travelers who want authenticity. We’ll cover where to eat (and where locals actually eat), how to get around without losing your mind, and the neighborhoods most tourists miss, but shouldn’t.
Navigating Tokyo Like a Local
Getting around Tokyo seems intimidating, but once you get the hang of it, it’s incredibly smooth.
Grab an IC card (Suica or Pasmo) as soon as you land. It works on all trains, subways, buses, convenience store purchases, and even some vending machines. Recharge it easily at any station.
Tokyo Metro vs. JR Lines:
- Use Metro to get around central Tokyo (Shibuya, Ginza, Ueno).
- Use JR (especially the Yamanote Line) for major stops like Shinjuku, Tokyo Station, or Akihabara.
Apps that actually help:
- Google Maps is reliable, especially for walking and transfers.
- Japan Travel by Navitime gives more precise train details than Hyperdia these days, especially for platform info and car placement.
Avoid rush hour like the plague:
- Trains between 7:30–9:30 am and 5:00–7:30 pm are packed. Plan your travel just before or after these windows.
Wi-Fi tips:
- Tokyo has more free Wi-Fi now than it used to: look for networks at 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart, or Starbucks.
- Consider a pocket Wi-Fi or eSIM if you need constant access. Airport counters often rent them out.
Foodie Musts: From Markets to Michelin
Start at Tsukiji Outer Market
Although the inner market moved to Toyosu, Tsukiji’s outer streets still serve some of the freshest food in the city. Get there early to check out sushi counters, tamagoyaki stands, mochi skewers, grilled scallops, and little shops selling everything from wasabi paste to hand-forged knives. It’s crowded, chaotic, but that’s why it’s worth it.
Explore Depachika Food Halls
Head to the basement of department stores like Isetan or Takashimaya for a look at Tokyo’s gourmet side. These food halls (known as depachika) are packed with beautifully arranged bento boxes, wagyu sandwiches, matcha desserts, and delicate pastries. It’s a great spot to grab a high-quality lunch or pick up edible souvenirs.
Slurp Your Way Through Ramen Alleys
Tokyo’s ramen scene is legendary. For atmosphere, Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku delivers with smoky alleys lined with noodle shops and yakitori joints. For variety, Tokyo Ramen Street inside Tokyo Station features top ramen spots in one place.
Unwind in an Izakaya
In the evening, follow the locals into the glow of paper lanterns and sliding doors. Izakayas in neighborhoods like Ebisu or Kichijoji are perfect for grilled skewers, sashimi plates, and cold draft beer. They’re casual, friendly, and you can see for yourself how Tokyoites wind down after work.
Don’t Overlook the Konbini
Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart are goldmines for snacks. It’s fast, cheap, and surprisingly delicious.
Themed Cafés & Unusual Spots You’ll Only Find in Tokyo
Animal Cafés
Tokyo takes animal cafés to the next level. Pet a sleepy hedgehog in Harajuku, drink coffee surrounded by owls in Akihabara, or chill with rescue cats in quiet cafés tucked away in Shimokitazawa. They’re somehow very Tokyo.
Ghibli Museum in Mitaka
Hidden in the beautiful and leafy Mitaka, the Ghibli Museum is a dream for Spirited Away or Totoro fans. It’s whimsical and handmade-feeling, with stained glass windows, storyboards, and a life-size Catbus. Tickets sell out fast and must be reserved in advance, usually online or at Lawson machines.
TeamLab Planets & Borderless
In Tokyo’s most Instagrammed art experience, you walk barefoot through glowing water, mirrored rooms, and floating flowers. Borderless has reopened in Azabudai Hills and offers incredible digital magic.
Capsule Hotels, Even Just to Peek
You don’t have to book a night to check out these futuristic pods. Some let you tour or enjoy their lounge cafés and manga libraries. Try The Millennials Shibuya or Nine Hours for an ultra-modern vibe.
Offbeat Neighborhoods Worth Exploring
Shimokitazawa: Tokyo’s Bohemian Heart
Shimokitazawa is a must-see for vintage lovers and indie spirits. The streets are lined with thrift shops, record stores, and cafés. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours browsing through racks of retro fashion or sipping espresso in a laid-back café. In the evenings, you can enjoy live music in venues like Shelter.
Koenji: Punk, Vinyl & Underground Vibes
Koenji carries Tokyo’s alternative energy. This neighborhood has a raw, creative energy. Small clubs host a diverse range of music, from punk to indie bands, and the streets are adorned with street art and vintage shops.
Yanaka: Tokyo’s Timeless Old Town
Yanaka offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s past. Unlike many parts of the city, it survived WWII bombings, preserving its traditional charm. Take a walk on narrow streets lined with old wooden houses, visit ancient temples, and explore Yanaka Ginza, a nostalgic shopping street.
Kagurazaka: Parisian Elegance Meets Edo Charm
Kagurazaka blends French influence with traditional Japanese culture. Cobblestone alleys, chic boutiques, French cafés, and ryotei (traditional restaurants). It was once a geisha district, and still retains its cultural heritage, with geisha houses.
Hidden Corners & Shrines
Each neighborhood hides its own tranquil spots. In Shimokitazawa, you can discover quiet shrines. Koenji’s backstreets reveal small temples and quiet cafés. Yanaka’s Yanaka Cemetery is a serene spot to unwind, while Kagurazaka’s alleys conceal shrines and traditional teahouses.
Classic Stops You Shouldn’t Skip (But See Them Right)
Shibuya Crossing: Best View
For an iconic view of Shibuya Crossing, head to the rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square. The 360° open-air observation deck, known as Shibuya Sky, offers panoramic views of the city, including a direct overlook of the crossing. It’s a prime spot for photos, especially at sunset when the city lights start to glow.
Senso-ji Temple: Early Morning Visit
To experience Senso-ji Temple without the crowds, visit early in the morning, around 6:30 AM. At this time, you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, allowing you to appreciate the temple’s beauty and serenity. Most shops on Nakamise Street open around 9 AM, so arriving early lets you enjoy the temple before the area becomes bustling.
Meiji Shrine + Harajuku: Blend of Tradition and Youth Culture
Meiji Shrine, located near Harajuku, offers a tranquil escape with its lush forested grounds. It’s open daily from sunrise to sunset. Afterward, step into Harajuku to experience the vibrant youth culture, with its eclectic fashion and trendy shops.
Tokyo Tower or Skytree: Sunset Skyline Views
For breathtaking skyline photos, visit Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree around sunset. Both towers offer observation decks with stunning views of Tokyo’s skyline. Before arriving, make sure you check tickets online; this way, you can find cheaper options.
After wandering Shibuya and Asakusa, relax in a conveniently located stay booked via cozycozy. This platform helps you find the perfect accommodation to unwind after a day of exploring Tokyo’s iconic spots.
Practical Tips for First-Timers
- Cash vs. Card
- Most shops and restaurants in Tokyo accept credit cards, but having some yen on hand is wise. Small eateries, temples, and local markets often prefer cash, and some ATMs in convenience stores or post offices are the most reliable for withdrawals.
- Konbini: Your Tiny Lifesavers
- Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart are everywhere. Need an ATM, a quick meal, snacks, or toiletries? They’ve got you covered 24/7. Perfect for grabbing essentials on the go.
- Basic Etiquette
- Trains are quiet zones, so keep calls to a minimum. Stand on the correct side of escalators (left in Tokyo, right in Osaka) and follow trash sorting rules: bins are rare, so you might carry your trash with you.
- Learn a Few Phrases
- A simple “arigatou” (thank you) or “sumimasen” (excuse me) goes a long way. Translation apps help if you’re unsure, but locals appreciate even small attempts at Japanese.
Final Thoughts
Tokyo is best discovered slowly; don’t try to see everything at once. Wander at your own pace, letting yourself get lost in side streets. Stay curious and embrace surprises, from pop-up art to tiny ramen shops, and let the unexpected guide you. Tokyo is a blend of chaotic neon streets and serene order, so relax into it, enjoy the rhythm, and don’t hesitate to try everything.
