How to Tackle Tokyo as a First Timer

Tokyo is an undeniably exciting city, but it’s so big and sprawling that visitors often get overwhelmed. From sampling street food to watching sumo wrestlers, here’s how to make the most of your first visit to the Japanese capital.
Have a Foodie Experience
Japanese food is extremely varied, from fried and skewered street food to delicatekaiseki ryori haute cuisine. Take a cooking class, explore a market or two, or join a food-themed walking tour.
Stroll Around the Imperial Palace
The inner grounds of the Imperial Palace are open only a couple days a year, but a walk around the spacious gardens and along the moat is a good way to get your bearings in central Tokyo. Rent a pedal boat and admire the cherry blossoms in spring.
Tour Asakusa
Asakusa is one of the most traditional neighborhoods in the city. Visit the Senso-ji temple, and shop for food and souvenirs in the surrounding markets. A rickshaw tour is a fun and easy way to discover the area.
Watch Sumo Wrestling in Ryogoku
Sumo wrestling is Japan’s traditional national sport—if you’re an enthusiast, go to the Ryogoku neighborhood. Catch a tournament, tour the stables where the wrestlers live, and feast onchanko nabe hot pot.
Shop (or Window-Shop) in Ginza
One of Tokyo’s chicest areas, Ginza’s wide boulevards are lined with multilevel stores selling luxury fashion items. Window-shop, or part with some cash on a customized shopping tour.
Get Up High for a City View
To see just how vast Tokyo is, head to one of the city’s observation platforms. Visit the red and white Tokyo Tower, get a free view from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, or enjoy some art with your view at the Mori Tower.
10 Tours and Activities | All Tokyo Tours

Tokyo by Night: Japanese Food Small Group or Private Tour

Walking Food Tour of Shibuya at Night

Traditional Group Geisha Experience and Dinner Show in Tokyo, Fukagawa District

Food Tours Tokyo with a Local: From Ramen to Sushi...Private & Personalized

Private Ginza Architecture Walking Tour

Japanese Style Dinner Cruise by Yakatabune by Tokyo Bay

Cherry Blossom Tour Tokyo with a Local Guide: 100% Personalized & Private

Private Custom Shopping Tour with a Geisha

Private Tokyo Custom Shopping Tour by Chartered Vehicle
