We reveal the top things to do in Tokyo on your trip…

Throughout the last 500 years, Tokyo has experienced growth like no other city. Originally a quaint fishing village, the Japanese capital has stemmed into a global economic super-power, as well as a cultural hub, pushing the boundaries of food, fashion and entertainment. Today, it is the world’s post populated city, with over thirteen million inhabitants in the Metropolitan area alone, as well as a growing number of tourists. Tokyo is a breathtaking city of contrast, from its bright lights and skyscrapers, to its long-standing traditions and values. This list presents the absolutely essential districts and sights of things to do in Tokyo, as well as top tips before visiting.

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Meiji-Jiingū

Just a five minute walk from the bustling station of Harajuku and nestled beneath luscious woody grounds lies the Shinto shrine, Meiji-Jiingū. Originally constructed in 1920, the shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken, and is a truly breathtaking space. Escape the fast-paced speed of the modern city of Tokyo and connect with Japan’s heritage in the most traditional way possible. Experience authentic ceremonial rituals, such as individuals purifying themselves with water, and scribing prayers on wooden plates. One of the most breathtaking aspects of the Meiji-Jiingū are the staggering wooden gates, which immediately catch your attention and awe.

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Harajuku

The captivating district of Harajuku in Tokyo is undoubtedly one of the world’s most unconventionally stylish places. Here you can discover alternative street style like no where you’ve seen before, as well as an abundance of quirky boutiques, cafes and bars. Each and every Sunday, quirky fashion-lovers flock to Harajuku to parade their eccentric style, which is something which should not be missed for tourists intrigued by this fascinating sub-culture. Aside from its notoriety regarding fashion, Harajuku also ranks highly with foodies. The district is famed for its unbeatable crepes, which are filled to the brim with sweet or savory surprises; you’ll find yourself constantly returning for more throughout your trip.

Tokyo Skytree

Despite its practicality as a broadcasting tower, Tokyo Skytree was built in 2012, and has become a major tourist hotspot, as well as a notable city landmark. Standing tall at an unbelievable 634 meters, the tower is the largest in Japan, and dominates the iconic Tokyo skyline. It really is a must on your list of things to do in Tokyo. The tower boasts two observation desks for tourists to visit, with the tallest placed at 450 meters high, alongside the promise of unbeatable panoramic views. After a trip to the top of the tower, shop ’til you drop at the surrounding area, known as Asakusa, which is bursting with adorable shops and eateries.

Uobei Sushi Restaurant

Forget traditional Japanese Sushi restaurants, Uobei introduces the most modern and innovative way of delivering the delicacies – speedy train-like contraptions which transport the food right to your seat. Located in the heart of Shibuya, Uobei is undoubtedly tailored to tourists, but nonetheless offers delicious, freshly made sushi. Moreover, each dish costs a mere 108 yen, which translates to around £0.77. Uobei caters to all types of eaters, offering vegetarian, vegan and even a selection of Western cuisine, as well as predominantly authentic Japanese dishes. However, make sure you get there in time, as it can get super busy, and you may be forced to wait until a seat becomes available.

Akihabara

When it comes to things to do in Tokyo, this really is a must see. Frequently named ‘Electric City’, Akihabara stands as the heart of the entertainment industry in Japan. This district is renowned for its gaming culture, and stores which are devoted to the distribution of anime and manga, which is hugely popular amongst tourists and locals alike. It is also home to countless gaming arcades, where you can attempt to win prizes, or play the plethora of dance games. The most striking thing about Akihabara is the abundance of bright lights and things to look at; you’ll find your attention is constantly distracted by something else, yet the district remains quintessentially Tokyo.

Golden Gai

Located in the busy financial district of Shinjuku lies Golden Gai, a series of small alleyways dedicated to authentic Japanese cuisine and traditional. Many of the restaurants and bars in Golden Gai can only fit several people in, making it a cosy and unusual experience. Moreover, many of these bars are regular hang-outs for locals, adding to the existing authentic vibe. Although many of the restaurants and bars offer food and drink at reasonable prices, there are a few which strive to rip off tourists, so ensure that you are aware of the hefty service charge which a selection of the bars add to the bill.

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Robot Restaurant

Nothing screams ‘Tokyo’ more like the Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku. Although the city is home to many weird and wonderfully themed restaurants and bars, this one stands out for all the right reasons. The restaurant performs 90 minute shows every night, which consists of electrifying lights, colours and insane robotic creatures, where you’ll also be given neon glow sticks to join in on the madness. An evening at the Robot Restaurant will set you back a whopping 8,000 yen, or £57, but if experiencing the strange and peculiar is something which you enjoy, this is the perfect way to spend an evening in Tokyo!

Have you recently been here? What are your favourite things to do in Tokyo? Let us know in the comments below!