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The pandemic in the last couple of years put many travel plans on hold – at least for me. Many countries were locked down, and Japan opened its border to visa-free international tourists at the end of 2022; and truly consider a full reopening this year in 2023.
It’s been few years since my last visit to Tokyo in 2019, yet the city hasn’t stopped transforming and expanding (Tokyo hosts the Olympic Games during Covid, the world event!). So I am now staying in Tokyo for a few months and – If you are about to sign up for a private guided tour in Tokyo – There are so many new spots waiting for visitors to discover, consider putting them in your Japan visit next year!
We have covered the new, hip, and trendy attractions and hotspots in Tokyo –
most of them opened during the pandemic in 2020 or after – check our ultimate guide map at the end for so many more ideas. the map will be updated live.
Experience the Magic: Harry Potter and Frozen’s New Tokyo Attractions
For families, their itinerary may probably be stuffed with the latest additions of Warner Brothers Studio and Disneyland.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter opened in July 2023, and the 33,000-square-meter theme park recreated several classic scenes in Harry Potter’s movie (Also Fantastic Beasts and how to create them). Instead of thrill rides, this attraction focuses on immersive experiences like trying on costumes and playing with magic. You will relive a lot of classic scenes like hopping on the Hogwarts Express through the 9 3/4 platform; or shoot a video and be an extra in the cast of a Qittich game!
Tokyo DisneySea Expansion Fantasy Springs announced the park will open to the public in June 2024 with Frozen (Frozen Kingdom), Tangled (Rapunzel Forest), Peter Pan attractions, and a new Fantasy Springs Hotel! (and have you seen the queues at the entrance the day it opened on social media?!)
New facilities and features in Disneyland were added in 2019, including the new Beauty and Beast Castle, Baymax fun ride, Toy Story Hotel, and more!
Discover Azabudai Hills: Manga Art, teamLab Wonders, Tokyo Tower Views, and Luxurious Stays
The development of Azabudai Hills took almost 30 years. The good news is that it finally opened in 2024; Azabudai Hills is branded as a “modern urban village” and the most exciting thing about this site is an unobstructed view of the iconic Tokyo Tower. This commercial complex is a new shopping, entertainment, and dining hub.
Janu Tokyo: Looking at the Tokyo Tower, Janu Tokyo is the latest addition to the luxurious Aman Hotel group.
The new hotel opened in March 2024, inside the “tallest building in Tokyo” of Azabudai Hills. The room rate of Janu Tokyo is US$1,000 per night yet if you are not planning to stay in one of its 122 guest rooms, their Janu Wellness Centre (featuring Turkish bathroom “Hammam” and Russian Sauna (Banya)), and their signature eateries are also worth a visit.
Shueisha Manga Art Heritage: The exhibit showcases classic manga works including previous exhibitions: One Piece by Eiichiro Oda, Bleach by Tite Kubo, and more. Reservation is required before your visit. Visit their official website for the exhibition schedule.
Mori JP Tower: One of the highlights of Mori JP Tower was its 33-floor observation deck. Opened to the public for a brief but memorable period during its opening, the deck provided panoramic views of Tokyo’s sprawling metropolis, especially a close-up of iconic landmarks – the Tokyo Tower. The observation deck became a favorite spot for photographers, romantics, and anyone looking to experience the city from a new perspective.
In April 2024, the Sky Lobby was closed to the public. An announcement was made and from then on, the only way for tourists (except the office employees) to enter the Sky Lobby is as a customer of the restaurants and cafes there, including Dining 33 Patisserie a la Maison, Hills House Dining 33 and Hills House Sky Room Cafe & Bar.
The Hills House Sky Room Cafe & Bar is an easier choice, and I recommend a cup of coffee and a cake while taking in the absolutely breathtaking view from the observation deck. There is a 500 yen entrance fee with the food and drinks you ordered – with that being said, the prices of the pastries and coffee at the cafe are reasonable and the space and relaxed ambiance make Hills House a perfect retreat from the bustling city below.
teamLab Borderless: The Guinness World Record-breaking digital art museum teamLab has expanded rapidly in the last few years. I still remember teamLab Borderless caused quite a sensation a couple of years ago when it started.
teamLab Borderless is now migrate to Azabudai Hills (Mori JP Tower) in January 2024, with teamLab Planets in Toyosu also extended to 2027. teamLab Borderless will feature some familiar and some brand-new interactive works that have never been seen in Japan.
Taking things a bit further, visit teamLab Musashino Woods Park in Saitama and experience resonating life in the Acorn Forest (from Aug 2020 to Jan 2024).
Dive into the Extraordinary: Odaiba’s Immersive New Experiences
Odaiba, a vibrant man-made island in Tokyo Bay, has long been a symbol of modernity and entertainment in Tokyo. Originally developed in the 1990s as a futuristic hub, Odaiba boasts a plethora of attractions ranging from high-tech shopping malls to expansive parks.
From Odaiba, Ariake to Toyosu, the dynamic areas are known for their striking architecture and waterfront views, and continue to evolve, adding exciting new attractions over the last few years.
Since 2020, Odaiba has introduced several unique experiences.
The Poop Museum, or the UNKO Museum, in Divers City offers a whimsical and colorful exploration of one of life’s less glamorous necessities, combining education with humor in a playful setting. The Poop Volcano is a signature of the museum as a giant POOP Volcano. In Unberto’s Room, meet the guardian angel; Don’t miss the interactive exhibits in the Crappy Arcade and “Let’s Draw Your Poop” which are both fun and informative.
Doraemon Future Department Store is the new neighbor of the Poop Museum, with an attraction zone for visitors to experience Doraemon’s secret gadgets.
Small Worlds Tokyo, the world’s largest indoor miniature theme park, captivates with its incredibly detailed dioramas of real and fictional worlds. Each exhibit, from bustling cities to fantastical landscapes, is crafted with meticulous precision. Allocate at least a couple of hours to fully appreciate the intricate details and look out for the seasonal special exhibits that often feature limited-time displays.
For those seeking a cutting-edge experience, Immersive Fort Tokyo delivers an awe-inspiring blend of art, improv performance, and game experiences.
This new large-scale walk-through immersive theatre opened in March 2024, with a list of attractions for visitors to see the performances so closely that are so stimulating.
Though foreigners may find the language barrier slightly difficult to have full interaction with the performers, it may also be beneficial if you are shy from being pulled out by the performers from the crowd. Most attractions are based on thrilling experiences including escape rooms and murder cases.
To visit the theme park, visitors need a 1-day pass and It is recommended to purchase a VIP pass to skip the line if you want to visit them all; some performances may take an hour in the queue.
Unveil Toyosu’s Treasures: Senkyakubanrai and Beyond!
teamLab Planets in Toyosu, as mentioned earlier, has extended its period until 2027, with its original end date set by the end of 2023.
There are so many new attractions in Tokyo Bay after the Olympic Games, and if you are planning a day in this area, check out the guide map below for ideas.
The Toyosu Market is the largest fish market in Tokyo, and it will open a new complex – Senkyabanrai – a facility for additional shopping and dining, as well as for a public bath and hotel (Tokyo Toyosu Manyo Club) is scheduled to be added to the complex on February 1, 2024!
Senkyabanrai is a tourist attraction with a wide range of traditional local street food in a historic Japanese architectural setting. Savor their barbecue oysters, salmon roe sushi, ramen, and more. At the top of the Toyosu Manyo Club is an open-to-public foot bath, offering a view of the breathtaking Tokyo city skyline. For a full hot spring experience, head to the 6th floor, the Manyo Club is a full-service hot spring facility, with an even nicer open-air foot bath on the rooftop, and a hot spring at the bath hall, introducing onsen water from Yugawara in Hakone.
There is a buffet dinner food hall and restaurant in the club after the hot spring, and I recommend the buffet because it has an exciting variety of food choices and all-you-can-eat.
Get Active at the Tokyo Olympic Museum
Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics took place in 2021 and it is for sure a special event due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The museum is located next to the Japan National Stadium, or the “New National Stadium”; The exhibition loop showcases the history, fun facts, and information about the Olympic Games throughout history, with a focus on Tokyo’s event, not only in 2021, but also in 1964.
The format of the exhibition is similar to the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, while we get a closer look at the medals, torches, emblems, mascots, promotion banners, posters, uniforms, and all that related to this event. The Olympic Theater is an immersive sound and video experience highlighting the dynamism of Olympians and the wonder of the opening ceremony.
At the end of the exhibition area are interactive physical challenges for visitors to have first-hand experience and understand more about how the contestants move during their respective sports, and of course, in the end, there is a preview of the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, which I will be visiting myself.
Indulge in Retail Therapy: New Shopping, Relaxation, and Entertainment Hotspots
Shopping in Japan is such a fun and pleasant experience that it must be included in your Japan travel itinerary. There are many popular outlets around Tokyo: Premium Outlet in Shisui is close to the Narita Airport; Mitsui Outlet Park in Iruma has a shuttle train car for family shoppers; Mitsui Outlet Park in Kisarazu has an impressive number of stores; and the Outlet Mall in Karuizawa is close to the beloved vacation and get-away destination, Karuizama, from Tokyo.
Grandberry Park opened in winter 2019 and is merely 30 minutes away from Tokyo city center, featuring the Snoopy Museum; Mitsui Outlet Park opened in spring 2020 and is close to a marina by the Bay with incredible views and entertainment; Premium Outlets Fukayahanazono opened in October 2022, featuring an exciting number of mid-tier fashion brands.
Now, Premium Outlets Gotemba is the largest outlet after its expansion and reopened in June 2020. With the addition of Hillside Annex, there are a lot of international and local brands of fashion and apparel set up stores there. Hotel Clad is in the outlet, with an onsen, spa center, and an incredible view of Mount Fuji! For a day trip from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, stay overnight in Gotemba and get fully recharged before heading back to the city.
Savor Gourmet Delights in Ginza and Find Unique Souvenirs at Tokyo Station
The historic Tokyo Train Station has finally completed its renovation project, Gransta Tokyo, which opened in August 2020, is literally the new underground shopping maze, connecting to a number of shopping areas under the hustle and bustle of Tokyo’s main avenues in Ginza.
Gransta is literally “the” place for getting snacks and souvenirs back home, from the popular SWEETS COLLECTION by Tokyo Banana, Cocoris Cookies, Maison Cacao, the chocolate expert from Kamakura, to Sanzen, from Sendai.
Connecting with the station, Tokyo Midtown Yaesu opened at the beginning of 2023, featuring the CFCL Concept Store, and an “ALL Stands” Food Court on the second floor. In the same building, BULGARI Hotel Tokyo is the new luxury brand hotel with the BULGARI spa covering an area of 1,500 square meters.
Moving on to Ginza, there is no way you do not see something new and exciting each time you visit – because Ginza is the epicenter of the latest and newest spots not only in Japan but around the world. Tokyo’s Pedestrian Paradise in Ginza has many trendy international fashion brands, department stores, and century-old businesses.
Uniqlo Tokyo is the largest flagship store, which opened in June 2020. Daiso Marronnier Gate Ginza is also the largest flagship store opened in April 2022.
Itoya is an expansive retailer offering a wide selection of stationary, writing instruments, and desktop objects; Yamano Music is a music store that I love. Yamano Music is next to Seiko House, a landmark in Ginza, and the clock face is changed to a Mickey Mouse in October and November 2023, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Walt Disney Company!
Some brands also opened their stores in Ginza, which are the first in Asia. Fueguia 1833 is a luxury Buenos Aires fragrance house that opened its first boutique in Ginza 6. It has an overwhelming collection of fragrances, and all of them are hand-formulated in the house’s laboratory in Buenos Aires using quality natural essences sourced in South America.
Several new fine-dining restaurants opened during the pandemic. Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura opened in October 2021 with an exquisitely designed interior, featuring main chef Antonio Iacoviello (who worked in Noma – the world’s best restaurant in Denmark), and Gucci Décor tableware. The menu has a strong tie with the chef’s Italian origin, at a reasonable price tag compared with many other high-class restaurants.
Louise Vuitton opened their world’s second café, Le Café V, in spring 2021, serving monogram printed chocolates, V Café Latte, and their signature Mille Feuille.
The Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum is a cultural jewel in Tokyo’s Marunouchi district, blending architectural splendor with captivating art.
After undergoing maintenance, the Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum is set to reopen on November 23, 2024, with a highly anticipated exhibition titled “Commemorative Reopening Exhibition: Absences – Toulouse-Lautrec and Sophie Calle.”
Explore Trendy Complexes in Shimokitazawa
Shimokitazawa has been known for its vintage clothing stores, and its hippy bohemian vibe, only about 30 minutes away by train from Shinjuku or Shibuya. This cool and hip neighborhood has added different flavors, with some new complexes that put this area on the latest Tokyo travel map.
Reload opened in 2021 and it is the highlight of Shimokitazawa. Surrounded by local residences, reload is a modern and sleek white complex with over 20 unique restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops.
There are so many new places to complete your food adventure in Tokyo. If you are a fan of Matcha, then you must stop by Shimokita Chaen. There are only 15 level ten matcha experts in Japan, and two of them are here, refining their expertise in creating matcha shaved ice, beverages, and more. The foamy matcha is their signature and we could already see a queue in front of the store before it opens.
Stabler is an Instagram diner, featuring their Shimokitazawa Meat Sandwich with 300 grams of juicy beef, egg, or other ingredients stuffed between two pieces of buttery toast. Around the corner, Universal Bakes Nicome is a 100% vegan baker. You may be surprised by what they can do though because they have cakes, breads, and even donuts on their shelves.
Sip a cup of artisan coffee at Ogawa Coffee with beans from different origins or blends. The flavours cover a wide spectrum from light to heavy. APFR Tokyo is a fragrance expert, offering 40 different scents in candles, incense, essential oil, and hand wash. Their products and hand-made in their workshop in Chiba.
Bonus Track opened in 2020 and the few tin houses are, in fact, interesting shops like vinyl stores, bookshops, eateries, and cafes! It is a mini-market that welcomes a lot of people on the weekends.
While strolling, have another cup of coffee by Sidewalk Coffee Roasters (opened in 2021); More, try an ohagi3 warabi, chill at the (tefu) lounge, or shop and dine in Mikanshimokita (all opened in 2022).
Hit the Jackpot at Ikebukuro’s Capsule Toy Megastore
Capsule Toys isn’t exactly something new – but with the new store in Sunshine City, Ikebukuro, it takes the experience to a new level. The Gashapon Department Store was opened in February 2021 and I heard some many friends visiting there because it has over 3,300 Capsule Toy machines.
Truth be told, some of the capsule machines are repetitive, but still, the number of machines is overwhelming and the featured comics and anime characters are all there – the demon slayer, ONE PIECE, Miffy, and the classic Sanrio characters. The “premium capsule” section features rare items that collectors may have to exercise better self-control with these machines!
In Ikebukuro, also check out the Crayon Shinchan Cinema Parade – the movie’s official store if you are a fan of Crayon Shinchan (opened in 2021); Sanrio Cafe, serving cakes shaped in various Sanrio characters; Pikachu Sweets by Pokemon Café, featuring the lovely character in Pokémon. Pikachu Sweets opened in December 2019 and was the first genre of its kind.
Animate fans will know their way to the headquarters of the Animate Store, which was renovated and expanded to become the world’s largest Animate-themed toy store in Spring 2023.
Witness the Complete Transformation of Shibuya
Let’s talk about transformation. The transformation in Shibuya and Daikanyama is tremendous. After a couple of years, the new projects surrounding JR Shibuya station are finally complete and it looks brand new. Four new complexes are now here, combining shopping, dining, entertainment, and sightseeing.
Shibuya Scramble is the classic image of Tokyo. The multi-directional crossing with the signboard is probably how tourists remember Tokyo – and now the latest Shibuya Scramble Square is a 47-story high building with one of the most popular new attractions in the city, SHIBUYA SKY.
SHIBUYA SKY has blown up Instagram for a while now. Since its opening in November 2019, it has been on everybody’s bucket list in Tokyo. While an observation deck is not something new, the double deck is the highest outdoor platform that offers an unobstructed panoramic view of almost the entire Tokyo City, visitors can even see Mount Fuji on a clear day!
The busiest spot at SHIBUYA SKY is the two corners where you can take pictures with nothing but the metropolitan cityscape. What makes SHIBUYA SKY the new hit among tourists is probably the spaciousness of the viewing deck, where you can enjoy the view in the sitting area without feeling too crowded. However, there is a line taking pictures at the corner and it’s suggested to visit there at around 2 to 3 pm so you have ample time to catch the magic moment during sunset. Souvenir shops and the Sky Gallery are on the 46/F.
Miyashita Park opened in August 2020 and it’s a brilliant revitalization of an old park. Keeping the same name, it’s now a 4-story high complex with 90 fashion brands setting up stores.
The roof of Miyashita Park is a public space with a skateboard ground, a rock climbing area, and a sandy beach area. Behind it, the 100-meter-long “yokocho” is a food alley offering all sorts of delicious from around Japan.
Parco Shibuya was also renovated in 2019 with new labels and new attractions. Ogawa Grand Lodge and Nordisk Camp Supply Store are now here, with Parco Museum Tokyo on the fourth floor, featuring franchises of Jump Shop, Pokemon, and Nintendo Tokyo. Shibuya Fukuras is opposite Shibuya Scramble Square, and it looks a little bit more high-end with Beams Japan, Akomeya, and the GMO digital museum inside. There is a Shibuniwa sky garden on the 17th and 18th Floor with clubhouses, bars, and cafes.
Shibuya continues to dazzle with its ever-evolving cityscape, introducing new landmarks that blend futuristic design with urban functionality. At the forefront is the Shibuya Sakura Stage, a next-generation complex offering the largest scale and impact in the area.
This iconic landmark features dynamic spaces designed to adapt to light and movement, creating a constantly evolving visual experience that embodies Shibuya’s vibrant spirit. The design incorporates bold pink curves and cutting-edge graphics, making it a new hotspot for events, exhibitions, and leisure. Meanwhile, Shibuya AXSH complements the area with its lush vertical gardens and inviting public plazas, offering a more tranquil, nature-inspired retreat. Together, these additions transform Shibuya into a district where innovation and artistry thrive in harmony.
Stay Cool at Harajuku’s Trendsetting New Malls
Harakado offers a different, yet equally captivating, experience. Opened in 2024, this mall channels the spirit of Harajuku’s vibrant street culture. Harakado is designed to evoke the playful and quirky charm that the area is known for. Take a walk on the open rooftop and see the bustling Harajuku and Omotesando in action with a soothing breeze. Its colorful and dynamic interior is a feast for the eyes, with each floor offering a new adventure.
Not to mention the restaurants on the fifth floor have an exciting variety that you may have a difficult time finding your favorite (because they all are!). From unique fashion boutiques and artisanal craft stores to themed cafes and interactive art installations, Harakado is a treasure trove of surprises.
Just a short stroll away, WITH Harajuku stands as a testament to contemporary urban design. This sleek, multi-level mall is more than just a shopping destination; it’s a cultural hub. What sets WITH Harajuku apart is its commitment to sustainability and innovation, making it a forward-thinking destination for the eco-conscious shopper.
Check out IKEA, the first of its kind in urban Tokyo. The mall also hosts an array of pop-up shops and exhibitions, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.
Tokyu Kabukicho Tower: A New Landmark in Shinjuku
Opened in April 2023, Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is an exciting new addition to the heart of Shinjuku. Towering above one of Tokyo’s busiest neighborhoods, the 48-floor complex blends entertainment, food, and fun, catering to both locals and tourists. Inside, you’ll find immersive gaming arcades, a state-of-the-art cinema, and a variety of dining options—from authentic Japanese dishes to international cuisine.
The tower’s vibrant nightlife scene includes bars and lounges that offer stunning views of Tokyo, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
While you’re navigating Shinjuku, don’t miss the adorable 3D billboards that greet passersby nearby. You may have spotted the cute 3D Akita Inu on three buildings across Shibuya Scramble—it pops up every hour from 7 am to midnight (except at 7 pm). In 2021, Shinjuku also got its own 3D addition, a friendly cat billboard near JR station East exit, saying “Welcome to Shinjuku” for a minute every 15 minutes between advertisements. These digital delights bring a playful charm to Tokyo’s bustling streets, and are a must-see for anyone exploring the area.
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What are the latest and most exciting attractions that Tokyo has added to its list of must-visit places? Greeting : Telkom University
There are always new complexes popping up in Tokyo with eat, shopping, sightseeing and entertainment. You are welcome to check out my post for more info and I recommend Shibuya!