Top 5 things to do in Tokyo

Japan’s intriguing capital offers a trendy mix of modern life and old-fashioned traditions. Tokyo will grow on you and you’ll soon find yourself wanting to visit more than once. The largest city in the world definitely has something for everyone. Home to one of the most celebrated cuisines on the planet, a sushi trail alone is enough reason to head to Tokyo. Here are our top 5 things to do when you’re in Tokyo and don’t miss a chance to be there during spring for the stunning Cherry Blossom Festival.

Tokyo Sky Tree

Tokyo has a beautiful and very interesting skyline dominated by the Tokyo Sky Tree. It opened to the public back in May 2012 as the world’s tallest free-standing tower at 634m at the time. Now, it is only beaten by Dubai’s iconic Burj Khalifa at 828m. The exterior is a great triumph of architecture as it starts below in the shape of a triangle and changes to a circular shape at 300m. The panoramic view of the city is breath-taking, especially at night. The daylight view is beautiful too as you can see all the way to Mt. Fuji. There are two observation decks at 350m and 450m, respectively. The upper observatory features a circular glass corridor and the elevator has a glass front. At the base of the tower you can check out the Tokyo Sky Tree Town and do your shopping at Solamachi centre.

Shibuya Crossing

Arguably the busiest intersection in the world, the Shibuya Crossing in front of the Shibuya Station is most commonly known as “The Scramble.” Surrounded by neon lights and giant video screens, this is where you will feel that you’re in Tokyo. When the lights turn red in the iconic junction, they turn red at the same time in every direction. With traffic completely stopped, pedestrians swarm into the streets from every side, a unique sight. You can head to the nearby malls like Shibuya 109 or try a range of local street eats from grilled eel, fish salad, and octopus on a stick to seafood and rice seaweed wraps.  

Tsukiji Fish Market

There is no doubt that Tokyo is a foodie's paradise. Head to the largest fish market in the country, the Tsukiji Fish Market, for a variety of sushi joints offering the freshest fare there is. You will also find a range of other delicious seafood dishes. Here is where you will witness the culture within Tokyo. People wake up at 4 in the morning for a tuna auction. Visiting Tsukiji is an experience you definitely will not forget.  

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

The Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is the most beautiful one in Tokyo. For a relaxing stroll within lush green surroundings and calm blue lakes, it is a must especially during cherry blossom season in March and April. The Shinuku Gyoen is divided into a series of gardens such as the English Landscape, the French Formal, the Japanese Traditional which includes a teahouse, and the Mother and Child Forest. The Taiwan Pavilion is also a must, with lovely views from the second-storey windows.

Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea

For all the theme park enthusiasts, Disneyland and DisneySea have to be on your list of things to do. Disneyland Tokyo opened in 1983 as the first Disney theme park outside the US. It needs no introduction. To get the most of it, make sure you stay away from weekends as locals enjoy it just as much as visitors. Make sure you have a mobile internet connection to use their web app for all the wait times of the attractions in real time. DisneySea, on the other hand, is actually the 4^th most visited theme park in the world. It is inspired by myths and legends of the sea and is divided into seven ports: Mediterranean Harbor, Mystery Island, Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery, and American Waterfront. What’s travelling without a bit of silly fun?

Find out on how you can experience Tokyo

By Amal Ahmed