Cuteness Overload: 11 ‘Kawaii’ Things to Do in Tokyo

If ‘kawaii’ isn’t already part of your vocabulary, it’s time to catch up! This uniquely Japanese concept goes beyond ‘cute,’ encompassing a whimsical world of adorable aesthetics. From fashion to food, Tokyo is the perfect place to experience the magic of ‘kawaii’ firsthand. Get ready to be captivated by these Kawaii things to do in Tokyo!

Also read: Best Family Friendly Airbnbs in Shibuya, Tokyo – Curated 2024

1. Chill out at Kiki & Lala Café

Image credit: Valeri-DBF

Just a few minutes walk from Shibuya station, this café is the ‘kawaii’ overkill. There is simply nothing that isn’t themed. It is so popular that you might even have to wait to get in. But don’t be fooled, people will stand in line for hours in order to get in, as the café awaits with selfie opportunities and pink-everything. Besides coffee and desserts in the colours and shapes of Kiki & Lala, you can also buy all kinds of merchandise that you didn’t know existed.

2. Enjoy anime shopping at Mandarake

Image credit: Dushan Hanuska

If you know anything about manga and anime at all, then this store is on the destination list for Tokyo. Mandarake is the biggest manga and anime store in the world. You can get anything from books and films to costumes and games. Even if you are not into those all, it is well worth visiting the store and walking through the endless corridors filled with outlandish stuff.

Also read: Places in Tokyo to Enjoy a Budget-Friendly Trip

3. Watch short anime films at Studio Ghibli Museum

It is the most famous Japanese animation studio and is loved around the world – not only by anime fans. Films like Princess Mononoke, Ponyo and Spirited Away have enriched the imagination of kids everywhere. The Studio Ghibli museum was designed by Hayao Miyazaki himself and offers an insight into the world of how these films were made. One can also watch a few short films that were not released. If you have seen and liked any of their films, you should take the ‘kawaii’ time and go.

4. Take a purikura photo

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Let me warn you that once you take a purikura picture, it probably won’t be the last one. If you are a Japanese schoolgirl, it is a must-do activity after school. However, the trend is widening amongst travellers and the average visitor. It is a unique photo opportunity in any aspect. Choose colours, backgrounds, funny gimmicks and much more in order to pimp your photos.

5. Visit the Hachiko statue

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Yes, it is a statue of a dog but the story behind it is super ‘kawaii’. There used to be a dog that came to pick up his master every day at Shibuya station, even after his master had died in 1925, the dog kept coming to the station for ten more years – until he sadly died himself. In honour of his dedication, the city put up a statue of the dog next to the station. The new statue is now at the campus of the University of Tokyo. The legend of the dog is huge in Japan, so don’t fail to pay your respects.

6. Go café-hopping at Shimokitazawa

This Tokyo neighbourhood is filled with curious cafes, starting with the Rabbit Café and the Rainbow Café. All of which are of course totally themed and styled. The Darwin Room is another spot to hit up. Here you cannot only find out more about the evolution but digest all the information in the ‘kawaii’ café. On top of your café list for Shimokitazawa should be Café Hammock Tribe. Inspired by the beach and Asian cuisines, one can relax here perfectly – guess what?

Also read: Top 15 Cafes to Visit in Tokyo

7. Munch on animal doughnuts

Image credit: Valeri-DBF

It is vegetarian-friendly – don’t worry. Doughnuts at Floresta in Koenji have suddenly become the hype in Tokyo. Japanese always have been crazy about doughnuts, but animal doughnuts are a level higher. Fully glazed in all kinds of colours, each single piece is either shaped or decorated as a cute animal. Well, to be fair – some of them don’t look like animals at all, but rather like a strange comic character.

8. Rent a kawaii kimono

Have ever wondered what it would be like to walk around in a kimono? But you have never dared to go into a proper shop? Well, now you have the chance to rent a ‘kawaii’ kimono. Unlike the traditional ones, these ‘kawaii’ versions come in more colourful patterns and prints. Tokyo Kawaii Musée is a specialised kimono rental service with hundreds of different specimens. Take a look and try a few.

Also read: 13 Experiences Every Traveller Must Have in Japan

9. Get a dose of anti-loneliness

Image credit: Alícia Roselló Gené

The Moomin café has been around for a few years, but suddenly blow up in 2014. The point of going to one of these cafes is that you won’t be eating alone; you will have a plush companion sitting opposite you. Your partner will be Moonin, who is a character from a Swedish comic and extremely popular in Japan. The café wasn’t created just for fun, but rather to help people who always eat alone.

10. Dress up like a lovely maid

Instead of going to a maid café in Tokyo, you can become one yourself. Maison de Julietta specialises in maid makeovers, including hair, makeup and costumes. Perhaps not every guy loves the idea of becoming a maid, but you will be surprised how many girls are totally into it. If you want to take some crazy pictures in very strange costumes – here comes the perfect opportunity.

11. Visit Sanrio Puroland

Sanrio Puroland is a must-visit for any fan of Sanrio and a quintessential kawaii experience in Tokyo. This theme park is dedicated to beloved characters like Hello Kitty and My Melody, offering a delightful array of experiences. Enjoy thrilling rides, captivating shows, and enchanting parades, and don’t miss the opportunity to meet and greet your favourite Sanrio characters in person! The park itself is a masterpiece of kawaii design, with pastel colours, fluffy decorations, and adorable details at every turn.

Also read: Tokyo Shopping: 10 of the City’s Lesser-Known Shopping Districts

So there you have it, a list of Kawaii things to do in Tokyo that’ll make your trip extra cutesy! Are you ready to plan your Kawaii adventure in Japan’s vibrant metropolis?