Tokyo is a city of superlatives — a place where ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity live side by side. Neon lights bathe entire neighborhoods in a Technicolor glow, while centuries-old shrines sit quietly around the corner.
The city pulses with creativity, from a culinary scene that spans Michelin-starred sushi counters to ramen shops tucked down narrow alleys, to fashion districts that set global trends, to a cyberpunk-inspired nightlife straight out of a dreamscape.
It’s time to explore the buzz of Tokyo. (Photo Credit: Ryoji Iwata)
Tokyo Tower shines bright against the city’s endless horizon. (Photo Credit: Yusheng Deng)
Beyond the bustling streets, natural escapes are never far — hop a train to mountain trails, wander serene bamboo forests, or retreat to tranquil gardens that feel worlds away from the skyscrapers above.
With one of the most efficient rail systems on the planet, it’s easy to uncover every layer of Tokyo’s personality, from the iconic to the unexpected. Here’s our guide to the city’s most unique spots.
Golden Gai: Tokyo’s After-Dark Wonderland
Golden Gai isn’t the kind of night you map out in advance — it’s best experienced on a whim. Tucked into six narrow alleys laced with crooked staircases, this nightlife enclave crams more than 200 quirky, one-of-a-kind bars into a few city blocks.
Of Golden Gai’s six alleys and 200 bars, which one will you choose? (Photo Credit: @katy)
Each of the neighborhood’s unique gems is a world unto itself: One might be blasting 80s punk, another screening cult films, and another serving as a haven for artists, musicians, writers, and the occasional celebrity.
Starting around 9 pm, the neighborhood buzzes with energy. Leave your camera in your pocket (photography and video are discouraged), carry a bit of cash for cover charges, and savor the chance to soak it all in the old-fashioned way.
TeamLab: Tokyo’s Immersive Digital Dreamscape
What began in 2001 as a small interdisciplinary collective of artists, architects, animators, and designers has transformed into one of the most celebrated cultural phenomena in the world. The mission of TeamLab was simple yet ambitious: To reimagine the relationship between people and art through the lens of technology.
Step into a dreamscape at TeamLab, where art and technology collide. (Photo Credit: Note Thanun)
Inside, expect to be surrounded by floor-to-ceiling installations that respond to your presence — flowers bloom at your feet, galaxies swirl above your head, and waves of color shift with every movement. Each 360-degree exhibit blends light, sound, and sensation into an experience that’s equal parts art installation, science experiment, and playground for the imagination.
It’s as Instagram-worthy as it is thought-provoking, with rotating exhibits ensuring that no two visits are ever alike — just remember to reserve tickets in advance.
Onsens: Tokyo’s Take on the Classic Hot Spring
Japan’s volcanic landscape gifts the country with thousands of natural hot springs, or onsens, each offering its own mood — from rustic outdoor baths to sleek urban retreats, private escapes to bustling communal pools. No matter your preference, there’s an onsen experience to match every personality.
Soak away the city buzz in a serene Tokyo onsen. (Photo Credit: Nichika Sakurai)
For a first dip in Tokyo, head to Toshimaen Niwa no yu, a serene bathhouse open until 11 pm — perfect for a late-night soak. Here, mineral-rich waters drawn from natural springs flow into multiple pools, complemented by a Bade Pool, steam saunas, a full-service restaurant, and tranquil views of manicured Japanese gardens.
Keep in mind that many onsens have age restrictions (typically 13 and up) and enforce strict tattoo policies. Small tattoos can often be covered with bandages, or you can seek out one of the growing number of tattoo-friendly onsens around Tokyo.
Convenience Store Cuisine: Tokyo’s Best-Kept Secret
Tokyo is a culinary playground, and we encourage you to savor it all — from steaming bowls of ramen and crispy tempura to donburi rice bowls, fresh nigiri, izakayas, hole-in-the-wall gems, train station eats, and Michelin-starred splurges. When you want to keep things casual or just grab tasty souvenirs, Japan’s convenience stores — known as konbini — are your secret weapon.
Bento boxes are proof that Tokyo’s best bites can be found at a corner shop. (Photo Credit: Chloe Lefleur)
Step into a 7-Eleven or FamilyMart and you’ll find shelves lined with surprisingly delicious options: Fresh bento boxes, perfectly wrapped onigiri (stuffed with fillings like pickled plum or tuna), endless varieties of instant ramen, hot snacks such as yakitori skewers, and an array of sweet and savory filled breads.
Best of all, microwaves are right there in the store, so you can heat and enjoy your finds on the spot. It’s fast, flavorful, and uniquely Japanese.
Where to stay: Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
