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The vibrant metropolis of Tokyo is an intriguing blend of tradition and innovation that is equal parts electric and eclectic. Alongside its historic temples, beautiful park spaces and exquisite Japanese cuisine, it’s also a hub of utterly unique experiences. If you want to add a quirky twist to your experience, these are some of the most unusual and fun things to do in Tokyo:
Seize your chance to dive into one of the world’s most popular digital gaming worlds, channelling your inner Mario or Luigi and hitting the streets of Tokyo in your very own, Nintendo-inspired, live-action Mario Kart experience. You even get to dress as your favourite Mario Kart character! Your guide will brief you on how to drive your kart, and then you’re off on a thrilling, guided tour of the city. You need to be 18+ and hold an international driver’s licence to get behind the wheel, and we recommend booking in advance to avoid missing out. Let’s-a go!
Cats cafe in Harajuku, Tokyo
Tokyo’s vibrant café culture contains a unique collection of quirky, character-themed options, where you can cuddle with cats, owls or hedgehogs, or attend a Mad Hatter’s tea party. Some cafés will create coffee art based on your favourite photo in a few seconds. One of our favourite quirky café experiences is the Pokémon Café, which is located next door to the Pokémon Centre Tokyo DX in the Nihonbashi Takashimaya shopping mall. The café’s food and drinks are inspired by the iconic Japanese multi-media phenomenon, so you can enjoy a range of Pokémon-themed dishes, from a ‘Pikachu and Bulbasaur’s Best Friends Forever Curry’ to a ‘Sprigatito’s Melon Soda Float’.
Tokyo Disneyland
The Tokyo version of ‘the Happiest Place on Earth’ celebrates the global appeal of all things Disney while adding a Japanese twist to the experience. From unique characters like Duffy the bear, to one-of-a-kind rides like Pooh’s Hunny Hunt, your time at Tokyo Disneyland will be infused with colourful, quirky elements of Japanese culture, humour and fun. Munch on soy sauce-flavoured popcorn, take a magical night-time ride on the Western River Railroad and learn the lyrics to the Japanese translation of “It’s a Small World”. Don’t forget to pick up a set of sparkly mouse ears as a souvenir of your visit!
The Harajuku district has long been renowned as a centre of Japanese youth culture and fashion, and it’s still one of the best places in Tokyo for some truly fabulous people-watching. On Sundays, head to Yoyogi Park, which is a prime spot for spotting outlandish and unique styles on display. The park’s Jingu-bashi Bridge is the centre of the action, where you’ll find a wide variety of looks ranging from anime and cosplay to goth and rockabilly. Harajuku is also renowned for its array of designer boutiques, making it the ideal spot in which to indulge in a little retail therapy or high-end window shopping.
The Tokyo district of Akihabara is the heart otaku culture: a haven for tech enthusiasts, gamers, and fans of Japanese pop culture, anime and manga. You could easily spend hours browsing for rare collectible items in Mandarake, considered the world’s largest manga and anime store, or pick up a classic second-hand video game at Super Potato Akihabara. Even the local shrine, which is one of the oldest in Tokyo, has collaborated with famous anime characters. Fuel your adventure with a delicious bowl of ramen, or visit one of the district’s iconic Maid Cafes for a glimpse into Japan’s kawaii sub-culture.
We’re not being unkind – Unko Museum is quite literally dedicated to all things poop. It’s one of Tokyo’s quirkier celebrations of kawaii: the Japanese cultural phenomenon that celebrates and embraces all things cute. Unko is a testament to the city’s ability to turn anything into an art form – it’s a whimsical showcase of colour, humour and imagination that ranges from cute and cartoon-like to avant-garde. You’ll learn about the science and history of waste in an engaging and light-hearted manner, with interactive exhibits and Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.
If watching Lost in Translation inspired you to add ‘singing karaoke in Tokyo’ to your travel bucket list, you’re going to want to include a night in Shibuya district in your itinerary. Karaoke is an essential Japanese pastime, and Shibuya is the place to recreate the iconic movie moment – you can even reserve the very room in which Bob and Charlotte bonded during their late-night singing session. Along with the classic karaoke bars, you’ll also find plenty of themed options, so you can sing your heart out in a train cabin, a haunted house or even on a tropical island.
Step into the intriguing world of ancient Japanese espionage and martial arts with an immersive Ninja Experience. You can take a lesson in basic ninja skills, including shuriken throwing and the art of silent movement, or enjoy an interactive theatre with thrilling ninja duels and espionage scenarios. Whether you’re a history buff, martial arts enthusiast, the experience is a fantastic blend of education, entertainment that offers a peek into the secretive world of Japan’s legendary ninja warriors.
Toyosu is the world’s biggest fish market, occupying a vast, man-made island on the Tokyo waterfront. It’s a little different from your standard tourist attractions and you’ll have to be up well before the early bird to catch the action, but it’s worth it to experience the adrenaline rush of its world-famous tuna auction, where gigantic whole fish are auctioned to the highest bidders. Spaces are limited and need to be booked well in advance, but you’ll be rewarded with a unique perspective on Japanese seafood culture.
This incredible digital art museum, which has been a key Tokyo attraction ever since it opened in 2018, is set to reopen in early 2024 in a stunning new location in the city’s Azabudai Hills district. This interactive and immersive art installation is designed to blur the line between art and technology, allowing visitors to become part of the artworks themselves. The ever-moving, ever-changing works are constantly moving and changing, creating a visual experience that is sure to dazzle your eyes and delight your mind.
Whether you’re visiting Japan to experience the natural wonders of the cherry blossom season or the vibrant creativity of anime culture, you’ll find that Tokyo is a treasure trove of unforgettable experience. For more ideas and inspiration on how to make the most of your time in Japan, talk to your personal travel manager.
We at Travel Managers Australia recognise the traditional owners of the country where we live and work. We recognise and celebrate the diversity of Indigenous people and their enduring cultures and connections to the land and waters of New South Wales.
