When it comes to Tokyo activities, you’re truly spoiled for choice. The sheer number of exciting attractions is overwhelming, and the city offers a variety of unique experiences. On this page, we’ll show you the four most exciting activities and tours in and around Tokyo
Contents Tokyo activities
teamLab Planets: Fascinating light and art experiences
teamLab Planets* is one of the most thrilling exhibitions in Tokyo. We had a great time here and were truly impressed by the exciting and innovative installations. The light displays and interactive art pieces are designed to engage all your senses.
In the various garden areas, digital artworks blend seamlessly with nature in fascinating ways. Each room offers a unique experience: you can wade through massive water basins or enter rooms that appear infinite due to mirrors. You’ll also see projections that change with every movement. If you’re a fan of art and technology, this exhibition is a must-see.
You can book tickets for teamLab Planets online here*.
6 Essential Tips for Your Visit to teamLab Planets in Tokyo:
- Get your tickets in advance – this exhibition is extremely popular, and without a ticket, you might not be able to enter.
- Book your visit for the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the quietest times.
- Start in the garden area and then move to the water area to avoid long waits.
- Wear light-colored clothing so the projections stand out more vividly.
- Wear pants you can roll up since you’ll be walking through water. They’re also practical because of the many mirrored floors in the rooms.
- The museum is very dark, so a high-sensitivity camera is helpful; however, tripods are not allowed.
Day Trip: Mount Fuji and Hakone with Ashi Lake Cruise
Depending on how long you’ll be in Tokyo, day trips are a great option as well. One of the most popular is a visit to Mount Fuji and the Hakone region, including a boat tour on Lake Ashi.* We thoroughly enjoyed this trip – the beautiful nature and tranquility were a welcome change from the bustling city.”
The trip begins with a bus ride to the 5th Station of Mount Fuji at an elevation of 2,000 meters. It’s very peaceful here, and you can visit the first Shinto shrine. The next stop is the Hakone region, specifically Owakudani, a valley known for its active volcanic activity and sulfur smell.
The Hakone Ropeway offers an exciting ride with panoramic views of Mount Hakone and, if you’re lucky, even Mount Fuji. The ropeway finally takes you to Lake Ashi, a caldera lake where you can enjoy a boat cruise. The journey back to Tokyo is via the famous Shinkansen high-speed train.
Note: During the day trip, a Japanese lunch buffet is offered, featuring fresh ingredients from the region. Vegetarian and Muslim-friendly options are available upon request.
You can book tickets for the day trip to Mount Fuji and Hakone with the Lake Ashi cruise online here*.
Day Trip to Kamakura: Historic Temples and Beach Fun
Our day trip to Kamakura* was definitely one of the highlights of our entire Tokyo journey. On the way to Kamakura, we visited the Buddhist temple Kotoku-in, home to the Great Buddha—one of the most important representations of Buddha Amitabha. We enjoyed this site immensely; the Great Buddha is truly impressive and leaves a lasting impression.
Afterward, we visited Hase-dera, one of the major Buddhist temples in Kamakura. The temple grounds, with their Zen gardens, small bamboo groves, and koi ponds, were stunningly beautiful. Statues were scattered throughout, and there’s a remarkable grotto on the grounds. The view from here is also breathtaking!
We then strolled through the city of Kamakura and eventually went for a swim at Yuigahama Beach. Just a note: tattoos are generally not welcome at the beach bars, and in some cases, entry may be denied. Warning signs are posted at some bars regarding this policy.
Another interesting aspect is the local falcon population, which perches in large numbers on the power lines, waiting for opportunities to steal snacks from beachgoers. It’s quite similar to the behavior of seagulls at the North Sea, where they do the same thing.
You can book tickets for the day trip to Kamakura online here*.
Helicopter Flight Over Tokyo: Spectacular Panoramas
Saving the best for last. By far the most thrilling activity was our helicopter flight over Tokyo.* Since we had never been in a helicopter before, our hearts were already racing when we saw the helicopter waiting in the hangar.
We booked our flight online in advance from Germany. There was a free shuttle from the station and a refreshment drink before the flight. Afterward, we received a briefing as the helicopter’s rotors were already starting up.
Things move quickly from there. Our group is instructed to walk briskly to the helicopter and board. The rotor blades are incredibly loud, heightening our anticipation.
Then the helicopter takes off and begins the scenic flight over Tokyo. The helipad is located in the Kōtō district, directly across from Tokyo Disneyland.* So, the flight first goes over Tokyo Bay. Then, you get the best views of Tokyo, including the Rainbow Bridge, Roppongi Hills, and the Minato skyline. The highlight is flying past the massive Tokyo Skytree, which is brightly illuminated.
Tip: We chose our Tokyo helicopter flight* at sunset, around 6 p.m. The twilight flight offers a truly breathtaking atmosphere. It’s only as darkness falls that the spectacular lights of the Rainbow Bridge, skyscrapers, and, of course, the Tokyo Skytree fully come to life. If this timing works for you, we highly recommend it.
You can book tickets for the Tokyo helicopter flight online here*.
Tokyo Activities: Our Highlights and Tips
We thoroughly enjoyed all the excursions mentioned above, and they are unforgettable for us. The day trips do take up a lot of time, and the helicopter flight is quite expensive, but it was worth it, and we would do it all over again.
Besides these activities, there are numerous other exciting excursions and things to do, such as visiting the Tokyo Tower* or the Tokyo Skytree*. You’ll find more ideas in the next section.