Introduction to the old and new
Spend your morning at the Tokyo National Museum to check out the world's largest collection of Japanese art and artefacts, including ancient pottery, Buddhist sculptures, samurai swords, colourful ukiyo-e (woodblock prints), exquisite kimonos and more. The area is wheelchair accessible, and has free admission for visitors over 70 years of age.
Next, head to Senso-ji, the city’s oldest temple for the perfect introduction to the place of religion functions in everyday Japanese life. Located in Asakusa, the approach to the temple is lively, with benches, wide paths and plenty of places to pause and people-watch. You can pray, draw fortune slips and light incense in the temple to pay your respects to the presiding deity of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, the Compassionate Buddha.
For a true cultural immersion and a perfect memento from Japan, you may want to consider renting a kimono and get photographed at the temple. On your way out, don’t forget to sample fresh snacks like rice crackers and soy biscuits, and pick up some souvenirs at Nakamise Shopping Street.
End your day by watching the city in fast forward mode from Tokyo Skytree, the world's tallest freestanding broadcasting tower with an observation deck offering 360-degree views.
Tip: Visit temples and shrines early in the morning and observation towers in late evenings for the beautiful night view.
Green spaces to sit back in
If you love parks, then you will love Tokyo. Ueno Park, one of Tokyo’s oldest public spaces that also doubles up as a panda zoo. A premier spot during spring for the cherry blossoms, the park is beautiful all year round for walking and people-watching, and offers a perfect retreat from all the urban buzz.
Another great option is Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, known for its mix of Japanese, French and English-style landscapes. If you visit in autumn, the garden really shines with rich fall colours, offering a calm, beautiful experience that can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace.
Tip: All parks in Tokyo have clearly marked walking paths and plentiful seating.
A taste of Japanese heritage
Sushi, mochi, ramen, onigiri, sake… the list goes on. While every area in Tokyo has great cafés and restaurants for Japanese and international food, visiting a konbini (convenience store) should be on your list. Places like FamilyMart and 7-Eleven offer surprisingly good, ready-to-eat meals alongside an excellent range of snacks and souvenirs.
You can also enroll yourself in a sushi making class, where you can learn Japanese culinary skills under the guidance of skilled instructors. This is also a great way to get closer to Japanese culture, that often seems inscrutable to foreigners. Check out Sushi Making Tokyo or Cooking Sun for various options.
Tip: Shop for edible souvenirs available only in Japan, like Kit Kat Chocolate in over 300 flavours, umeshu (plum wine), Tokyo Banana (custard filled sponge cake) and Mochi.
Of giants and geishas
You might be forgiven for thinking that earth shakes and mountains move when witnessing Japan’s most iconic sport, Sumo wrestling. Thrice a year (January, May and September), the Kokugikan stadium plays host to national Sumo tournaments. If you’re visiting outside these months, you can still experience the sport by booking a morning visit to a sumo stable such as Musashigawa-beya or Arashio-beya, where you can quietly observe training sessions. These visits are limited and need to be arranged well in advance.
For a very different cultural experience, consider spending time with a geisha — highly trained female performers often described as “artists of tradition.” In Asakusa, you can attend a geisha show paired with a traditional kaiseki (traditional, multi-course Japanese meal), or take part in a private tea ceremony. Both offer an intimate glimpse into one of Tokyo’s more offbeat and refined cultural worlds.
Indulge in retail therapy
Spend some time in Odaiba, a modern waterfront district known for its diverse shopping and open views. Browse through the shopping and entertainment precincts of DiverCity and Aqua City within the area, and once evening falls, watch the Rainbow Bridge lights up and the skyline reflects across the bay.
Next, head to Ginza for the ultimate retail experience at outlets like the 12-storied flagship outlet of Uniqlo and Itoya, a sprawling stationery wonderland with themed floors for pens, paper and art supplies, with a handy café to catch a break between the shopping.