Things to Do in Tokyo Before or After Your Cruise

There are big cities, there are major destinations, and then there are living pillars of culture and history. Tokyo is in that exclusive third group, and that makes it an ideal pre- or post-cruise destination. Even a short stay can include culture, food, neighborhoods, skyline views, and unforgettable memories.

Maybe you want to explore Tokyo’s harmonious contradictions, from the bustling Tsukiji Outer Market and iconic Shibuya Crossing to the ancient calm of Sensō-ji Temple, before embarking on a relaxing cruise. Or maybe you want to leave Tokyo as the headliner of your trip so your journey ends with a grand finale.

Why Tokyo is worth exploring beyond the port

Tokyo is the primary Silversea Asia-Pacific embarkation port. It’s an ideal spot for cruises to begin or end because Tokyo is a city that has something for everyone. Depending on exactly how you measure it, Tokyo is the largest city in the world by population, and it’s massive in terms of area, too. With all those people and all that space, there’s an almost-endless list of activities and sites to experience.

Japan, and Tokyo especially, manages to embrace modernity while preserving aspects of history in a way that few other cultures can. Japan is a high-tech country, with cutting-edge gadgets, bullet trains, and high-definition screens abounding. But Japan is also an old culture and civilization, and even in an ever-changing city such as Tokyo, there are signs of that history everywhere.

There’s no shortage of temples in Tokyo that you can visit, admire the architecture, and observe centuries-old customs. And there are places where you can participate in some of these activities. You can take scenic rides in rickshaws, take part in a traditional tea ceremony, and stay in a ryokan, which is a traditional Japanese inn. You can even take a class learning the traditional Japanese art of kintsugi — repairing broken pottery using lacquer dusted with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. And if you’re tired from all that, you can always find a quiet Zen garden to relax and enjoy a little bit of nature inside an urban metropolis.

Then, of course, there’s the food: sushi, teppanyaki, teriyaki, curry, and much, much more. You can find a nice restaurant for some omakase, where the chef decides what you’ll eat and crafts a full dining experience for you to enjoy. Or you can just head to an izakaya for grilled meat or seafood with a beer or sake.

Tokyo’s essential sights for first-time visitors

When crafting a Tokyo itinerary for yourself, it's difficult to know where to start as a first-time visitor. There are countless things to do in Tokyo, and many hidden gems. But when I first went to Tokyo, I prioritized the city’s landmark contrasts. Many of us have an aversion to being too much of a tourist, but a major joy of traveling is being able to bond with other travelers in the moment or later when recounting stories. That’s why laying out some essential Tokyo attractions is a great way to plan your first trip there.

Tokyo is a sprawling metropolis that weaves ancient spiritualism with hyper-modern urbanity. To experience the spiritual pillars of the city, a great starting place is the historic Sensō-ji temple in Asakusa. For a serene contrast, visit the quiet, forested sanctuary of the Meiji Shrine, also known as Meiji Jingū. When you visit sites of religious importance, please remember to follow local etiquette. You can bow slightly at the gate, speak softly, and be respectful as you would in any place of worship.

After learning about what Japan was, there’s perhaps no better place to get a feel for modern Tokyo than the synchronized Shibuya crossing, which is a must-visit for urban photographers. And then you can complete your first-time visit by ascending the soaring Tokyo Skytree. Or check out Tokyo Tower in Minato City — don’t worry, that’s not the Eiffel Tower; you’re still in Tokyo.

Historic Tokyo in Asakusa

Stepping into Asakusa feels like journeying back to the Edo period. All around is contemporary Tokyo, but this historic district is where you’ll find Sensō-ji temple. It’s Tokyo’s oldest-established Buddhist site and a symbol of traditional Japanese culture. Before the main hall of Sensō-ji, there’s a large bronze incense burner.

It’s customary to gently wave the aromatic smoke over your head and shoulders, which is said to bring good health and mental clarity before entering the temple. Before passing through the iconic Kaminarimon — the wonderfully named “Thunder Gate” — walk along the bustling Nakamise shopping street to browse handcrafted souvenirs, folding fans, and local treats.

Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, and other iconic skyline views

When you’re strolling the streets, you’re in Tokyo. But to truly see Tokyo, you need to view it from above. Thankfully, Tokyo has several elevated observation decks to study different parts of the city.

• Tokyo Skytree: Japan's tallest structure offers 360-degree views, displaying sights that stretch to Mt. Fuji on clear days.
• Tokyo Tower: This mid-century icon provides nostalgic views of Tokyo Bay and the Minato skyline.
• Shibuya Sky: This open-air rooftop platform offers dramatic vertical views of the busy scramble crossing.
• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: My personal favorite, this municipal site is located in Shinjuku. Its twin towers offer superb, complimentary panoramas of the western metropolis, and it’s usually less busy than its counterparts.

From Akihabara to Shinjuku: Amazing neighborhoods to experience in Tokyo

Tokyo is so big that each neighborhood can seem like a distinct town from the next. Navigating Tokyo’s neighborhoods and sights can feel like a whirlwind, but with a little research, you can recognize the hallmarks of some of the most famous districts when you see them.

Shibuya, Harajuku, and Shinjuku

These high-energy hubs offer a thrilling pulse of modern Tokyo. Shibuya is famous for its chic fashion boutiques and the massive scramble crossing outside Shibuya Station. Nearby, Harajuku presents the youth culture of Takeshita Street alongside the shops of Omotesandō. To the north lies Shinjuku, home to the bustling Shinjuku Station and vibrant nightlife alleys.

Ginza, Asakusa, and Akihabara

These neighborhoods showcase a spectrum from heritage to high-end refinement. Ginza is Tokyo’s premier luxury district, boasting flagship designer boutiques and Michelin-starred dining. Asakusa preserves the city's old-world, temple-centered heritage, while Akihabara represents the global capital of anime and cutting-edge electronics.

Tokyo food experiences worth making time for

For epicureans, exploring Japanese cuisine is a profound cultural journey. And even for those who don’t consider themselves gourmands, the tastes of Tokyo can be eye-opening. While the delicate Tsugaru culinary traditions flourish among the northern apple orchards of Aomori, Tokyo offers masterful food experiences, from a meditative tea ceremony to the art of sushi in Japan.

And if you’re concerned about your proficiency with chopsticks, don’t. When enjoying an authentic omakase experience, it’s actually acceptable to eat sushi with your fingers. Simply pick up the piece gently, turn it slightly, and dip only the fish side — not the rice — lightly into the soy sauce.

Markets, sushi, and classic local flavors

The historic Tsukiji Outer Market is perhaps the most iconic example of Tokyo’s street food culture. While the wholesale auctions moved to Toyosu, the Tsukiji fish market area is still packed with vibrant stalls. Savor fresh sashimi or rich bowls of hot ramen. And if you want to relax afterward with a coffee or tea, why not consider one of Tokyo’s famous cat cafés for a charming experience.

Gardens, museums, and the calmer spots of modern Tokyo

To balance the city's neon-lit corridors, Tokyo offers beautiful pockets of tranquility with its many Japanese gardens and captivating museums.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

This vast expanse is a masterpiece of landscape design. It actually combines three distinct styles: French Formal, English Landscape, and Japanese traditional gardens.

Kyū-Furukawa Gardens

Smaller than the more famous national garden, this metropolitan park is home to a Japanese-style garden and a Western-style mansion and rose garden. Personally, it might be my favorite spot in all of Tokyo, conveying a sense of tranquility and beauty in one of the busiest places on earth.

Ueno Park and the Tokyo National Museum

For fine art, stroll the tree-lined avenues of Ueno Park. Not only is the park beautiful, but it’s also home to the Tokyo National Museum. I always like to check out any national museum I can, and Tokyo’s doesn’t disappoint. It’s the largest art museum in all of Japan, and you could easily spend a whole day there if you want to.

Yoyogi Park

While Ueno Park has major attractions, Yoyogi has a special energy. It’s a lively gathering spot for locals and tourists alike, so you can really get a feel for the city here. It’s also one of the best places to see cherry blossoms — or sakura — in spring.

Nezu Museum

This private museum in the Minato district isn’t as large as the National Museum, but it’s home to a private collection of pre-modern Japanese and East Asian art assembled by Nezu Kaichirō.

Immersive art and contemporary culture

For a striking modern contrast, the digital art installations of teamLab Planets and teamLab Borderless offer magical, sensory journeys where art and technology collide. These digital art museums are highly popular, so it’s wise to book in advance. And if you’re one of the many Studio Ghibli fans out there, a trip to the Ghibli Museum is essential. And afterward, you can relax in a soothing Japanese onsen to recharge.

How to plan a short stay in Tokyo before or after embarkation

When planning a stay to bookend your voyage, efficiency is often key. Consider grouping activities by geographical clusters to avoid travel fatigue. Maybe pick one cultural site, one neighborhood, one food stop, and one skyline view you really want to enjoy. And try to leave room for some memorable surprise experiences along the way.

Ready to plan your journey? See all Silversea Japan cruises to explore more itineraries.

Frequently asked questions about things to do in Tokyo

What are the best things to do in Tokyo for first-time visitors?

The best things to do in Tokyo for first-time visitors include exploring the historic Sensō-ji Temple, viewing the city from Tokyo Skytree, and crossing the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Then, you can balance these iconic urban landmarks with the quiet forest of the Meiji Shrine or Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.

What can you do with only one day in Tokyo?

Focus on a single geographic area, like the adjacent spots of Shibuya, Harajuku, and Shinjuku. This efficient approach minimizes travel time while delivering a high-impact, unforgettable experience.

Where should you go in Tokyo for food and local flavor?

You can go just about anywhere and enjoy delicious food, but perhaps the primary spot to experience Tokyo’s food culture is Tsukiji Outer Market. You can enjoy street food and fresh sushi. For a truly pampered culinary experience, consider booking an intimate, expert-led food tour or a private sushi class.

Is Tokyo a good city to visit before or after a cruise?

Tokyo is an exceptional city to visit before or after a cruise because of its seamless transit connections and world-class hospitality.

Tokyo: City Stays by Silversea is a 2-night pre- or post-cruise program that allows guests to spend a little more time experiencing the endless attractions of Tokyo. It includes hotel accommodations, expert-led explorations in small-groups, authentic culinary experiences, and convenient private transfers that pair with select Japan voyages.

Explore Japan and Asia with Silversea

An unforgettable stay in Tokyo can simply be the beginning of a grander voyage. Sailing with Silversea allows you to experience the ultimate in immersive travel, connecting the electric energy of Japan's capital with other gems of the Far East in absolute comfort.

From paper lanterns that have been part of Japanese culture for centuries to bullet trains that represent contemporary progress, Tokyo is a study in beautiful contradictions. Tokyo: City Stays by Silversea allows guests to explore traditional stalls along vibrant Nakamise Shopping Street and take scenic rickshaw rides on Kappabashi Street. From structured tours and independent exploration, you can experience the beautiful paradox that makes this city unique.

Start your voyage and find a cruise to Tokyo or another Asia cruise today.