Tokyo is a vibrant and exciting city where tradition seamlessly blends with innovation, and ancient temples stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers. From historical landmarks to modern attractions, there are plenty of things to see and do in the Japanese capital.

Throughout the years, Tokyo has been a top Asian destination for travelers worldwide. In 2023, there will be many fresh destinations to visit. Here are some of the best things to do in Tokyo in 2023:

If you’re looking for where to go in Tokyo, try the newest Harry Potter Studio! This new attraction is the world's largest indoor Harry Potter attraction and the first Warner Bros. Studio Tour to open in Asia—truly a must-visit for any Harry Potter fan!

Building on the triumph of London's iconic counterpart, this Tokyo tour boasts exclusive sets where fans can roam authentic landscapes, don spellbinding costumes and uncover filmmaking secrets.

From the Great Hall to Diagon Alley, relive the magic and witness the craftsmanship behind the film series' success. Interactive experiences, like broomstick rides and Quidditch crowds, add a layer of thrill. Complete the journey with Butterbeer in the Studio Tour’s Backlot and enchanted souvenirs from the grandest Harry Potter shop.

Tickets to the Studio Tour must be booked in advance for a specific time and date, allowing all fans to enjoy the world of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts to the fullest without the crowds.

Open hours: 08:30 am - 10:00 pm

Recommendation: Book your tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.

Ten minutes from Tokyo Station lies the Imperial Palace, the home of the Japanese Emperor and Empress, and it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in the heart of Tokyo. It was once destroyed during World War II and rebuilt in the same style afterward.

Its expansive parkland, encircled by moats and formidable stone walls, echoes with history. Originally home to the Tokugawa shogunate, it transformed into the epicenter of Japan's Imperial Family in 1888.

You can take a guided tour of the palace grounds or simply wander around and admire the architecture. However, these tours do not include entry into any of the buildings. The tour takes around 75 minutes and is held in Japanese and English. You can make reservations through the Imperial Household Agency or register on the same day of the tour at the Kikyomon Gate.

Nijubashi, a pair of bridges at Kokyo Gaien, beckon visitors towards the inner palace grounds. Though usually restricted, on January 2 (New Year’s Greeting) and February 2 (Emperor’s Birthday), you can take glimpses of the Imperial Family, who make several public appearances on a balcony.

Open hours: 9:00-11:15 am, 1:30-2:45 pm (Tue-Sat)

Recommendation: Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.

Shibuya is one of the most famous, must-visit shopping districts in the world, and it's a great place to find everything from high-end designer brands to quirky souvenirs.

From the iconic Shibuya Crossing, dive into a world of fashion, culture, and trends. Discover trendy boutiques, high-end brands, and unique streetwear stores, including the famous Shibuya 109, Shibuya Hikarie, Shibuya Parco, Tokyu Hands, Don Quijote, and Shibuya Loft.

Explore modern and traditional styles in department stores, and embrace the tech paradise in Shibuya Modi. The district lights up as night falls, offering a diverse culinary scene to refuel.

Open hours: Varies by store

Recommendation: Try the famous Hachiko statue and scramble crossing.

Sensoji Temple is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Tokyo, and it's a must-visit for any visitor to the city. The temple is located in Asakusa, a charming district with traditional Japanese shops and restaurants.

Pass through the iconic Kaminarimon Gate, the outer gate of Sensoji Temple serves as both the emblem of Asakusa and a symbol representing the entire city of Tokyo.

After that, you can stroll around 200-meter Nakamise Street's bustling stalls until you reach the second gate, the Hozomon. Entering the Hozomon Gate, you’ll witness the majestic main hall and a five-story pagoda.

Numerous events take place throughout the year in this temple. The most prominent among these is the Sanja Matsuri, an annual festival of the Asakusa Shrine held in May. Additional events include the Asakusa Samba Carnival in August and the Hagoita-ichi (Hagoita Market), where ornately adorned wooden paddles used in the traditional hanetsuki game are available for purchase.

Open hours: 6:00 am - 5:00 pm (April-September) & 6:30 am - 5:00 pm (October-March)

Recommendation: Wear traditional Japanese clothing such as a kimono or yukata.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a beautiful park in the heart of Tokyo, and it's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park has a variety of gardens, including a Japanese garden, an English garden, and a French garden.

If you visit here during spring, you’ll witness cherry blossoms, with over 400 somei yoshino trees transforming the lawns into a hanami haven. In autumn, maple trees paint the scene with vibrant hues. In addition, if you come in November, you’ll see the Japanese garden hosts a magnificent chrysanthemum exhibit, an explosion of floral artistry.

This traditional Japanese landscape garden also boasts serene ponds adorned with islands and bridges, transporting you to a bygone era in no time.

This place offers three gates for entry: Shinjuku Gate, ten-minute walk east from JR Shinjuku Station's "New South Exit" or a five-minute walk from Shinjukugyoenmae Station on the Marunouchi Subway Line; Okido Gate, also a five-minute walk from Shinjukugyoenmae Station on the Marunouchi Subway Line; and Sendagaya Gate, a five-minute walk from JR Sendagaya Station on the local Chuo/Sobu Line.

Open hours: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm (Tue-Sun)

Recommendation: Have a picnic in the park and enjoy the peace.

Sumo is a traditional Japanese sport and a great way to experience Japanese culture. Several sumo wrestling tournaments or sumo wrestlers' practices are held in Tokyo throughout the year.

Tokyo's major sumo tournaments, known as "basho," are held six times yearly. The three held in Tokyo occur at the Ryogoku Kokugikan, a revered sumo stadium that buzzes with energy and excitement during these tournaments.

The sumo matches typically occur in a sacred arena called a "dohyo," where two colossal wrestlers face off, their imposing presence filling the air with anticipation. You’ll notice the wrestlers perform rituals before the game, such as throwing salt.

Open hours: Varies by tournament

Recommendation: Buy tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.

Visiting the Tokyo Tower is a must-do activity when exploring Tokyo, Japan. This is a 333-meter-tall tower that offers stunning views of Tokyo. You can walk up to the top of the tower or simply admire it from afar.

The primary reason to visit the Tokyo Tower is the breathtaking views it offers. You can take an elevator up to the observation decks, where you'll be treated to panoramic vistas of Tokyo's sprawling urban landscape. On a clear day, you can see iconic landmarks such as Mount Fuji, the Tokyo Skytree, and even glimpses of the city's bustling streets.

During your visit, you can explore the main deck at 150 meters, which offers both indoor and outdoor viewing areas and the chance to purchase souvenirs and enjoy refreshments.

For an additional fee, you can access the top deck at 250 meters, providing an even higher vantage point that's particularly striking at sunset and during the transition from daylight to nighttime.

When planning your visit, consider timing it for the late afternoon to experience daylight, sunset, and nighttime views all in one visit.

Open hours: 9:00 am - 10:30 pm

Recommendation: Go at night to see the city lights.

Tokyo offers an array of fresh destinations for tourists from around the world. From a magical adventure in the Harry Potter Studio to a walk through the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, your choices for things to do in Tokyo are limitless.

These are just a few of the many great things to do in Tokyo in 2023. With so much to see and do, you will surely have an unforgettable time in this vibrant and exciting city.

If you’re a Singaporean tourist looking for unique things to do in Tokyo, refer to these alternative lists for inspiration. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip from Singapore to Tokyo with Traveloka. Get exciting offers and discounts!

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