Best Indoor Activities in Tokyo: What to Do on a Rainy Day

I know how frustrating it is to plan an exciting trip to Tokyo and find out you might have rainy days. If you’re visiting for the first time, you might worry that bad weather will ruin your plans, especially because there are so many outdoor attractions. But don’t worry—Tokyo has many indoor activities that will keep you entertained, no matter the weather.

Rainy days in Tokyo are perfect to explore museums, experience themed cafés, visit entertainment complexes, try a cultural workshop, go shopping or relax in a Japanese bath house.

Here are the best things to do in Tokyo when it’s raining!

Explore Tokyo’s Museums

I don’t usually like museums, but Tokyo has some that even I find exciting. Many of them have interactive exhibits, immersive experiences, or unique themes. They have digital art, samurai armor, and unusual collections. There’s something fun and engaging for everyone. If you’re looking for activities during rainy days in Tokyo, museums here are a lot of fun. Here are a few ideas for you:

• Tokyo National Museum — This museum is in Ueno Park, and it’s the oldest and largest in Japan. It has samurai armor, ancient pottery, and beautiful traditional art. If you’re into history, you’ve got to check it out. It’s easy to get to from Ueno Station.
• Tokyo Trick Art Museum — This fun and interactive museum in Odaiba lets you take optical illusion photos with 3D paintings. It’s family-friendly and conveniently located in the Decks Tokyo Beach shopping mall, near Daiba Station.
• Samurai Ninja Museum — This museum isn’t big, but it’s a lot of fun. You can try on samurai armor, learn about ninjas, and even throw shuriken. It’s right in central Shinjuku, so it’s an easy stop on a rainy day.
• TeamLab Planets — I’ve been to few museums, but teamLab Planets is truly unique. Walking without shoes through water, feeling the soft floors under my feet, and being surrounded by changing lights and colors made me feel like I was inside a dream. It’s very easy to get there because it’s right by Shin-Toyosu Station.
• TeamLab Borderless – When I first visited teamLab Borderless, I had no idea what to expect. Unlike regular museums, the exhibits move across walls, floors, and even onto visitors. There is no set path, so you can explore at your own pace. This museum was relocated in 2024 to Central Tokyo, and it is easy to get there.

Marvel at Tokyo’s Aquariums

I love visiting aquariums, and Tokyo has some amazing ones. They’re the perfect activity for a rainy day. It’s so relaxing and fascinating to see marine life up close, and the exhibits are beautifully designed. Many of Tokyo’s aquariums have unique features, like massive tanks with manta rays and sharks, or interactive touch pools where you can get up close and personal with sea creatures. And if you’re looking to stay indoors and still have a magical experience, these aquariums might be a good option. Here are some examples:

• Tokyo Art Aquarium Museum — I’d say this is probably my favorite aquarium in Tokyo. It’s a cool mix of art and aquatic life. The tanks are beautifully lit with the goldfish swimming around. It’s right in the heart of Ginza, so it’s super easy to get to from Ginza or Higashi-Ginza Station.
• Sumida Aquarium — This aquarium is in Tokyo Skytree Town. It has a great open-concept jellyfish display and a big penguin habitat. It’s easy to get to from Oshiage Station and you can combine it with a visit to the Skytree observatory.
• Sunshine Aquarium — This urban oasis is home to all kinds of marine life, from colorful tropical fish to playful sea lions. The jellyfish exhibit is really relaxing, and it’s a great place to go when it’s raining. It’s conveniently located in Sunshine City, and you can visit the Sunshine 60 Observatory the same day.

Experience Tokyo’s Themed Cafés

Tokyo’s themed cafés are one of my favorite things. For me, it’s not just the food; it’s the unusual experience they provide that makes them unique. Where else can you get your latte while surrounded by fluffy owls or step into an anime world? When it’s raining, these cafés are a great way to take a break, and you can really experience the playful side of Japan.

• Animal Cafés — Tokyo has many animal cafés where you can relax with friendly animals. There are cat cafés, owl cafés, hedgehog cafés, and even micro-pig cafés. Some of the most famous include Mocha (a stylish cat café chain), HARRY (a hedgehog café in Harajuku), and Mipig Café (adorable micro-pigs in Harajuku). Most of these cafés are located in popular areas like Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Akihabara, so they are easy to visit.
• Maid Cafés — These unusual cafés in Akihabara offer a special experience where staff dressed as maids serve cute food in a playful way. Guests are treated like “masters” or “princesses,” and they can join in on fun activities like live performances or themed photo sessions. Maidreamin is the most famous and has multiple locations in Akihabara. The main hub is Akihabara Station, and most maid cafés are within walking distance.
• Character Cafés — Tokyo has many themed cafés. These cafés are based on popular anime, video games, and Sanrio characters. They have special menus, decorations, and merchandise that you can only get there. Some of the most famous include Pokémon Café in Nihonbashi, near Tokyo Station, Sanrio Café in Ikebukuro, and Kirby Café in Tokyo Skytree Town. Many of these cafés require reservations, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.

You may also like:

Not Sure Where to Stay in Tokyo? Read This Before Booking!

The Unko Museum in Tokyo: A Poop-Themed Adventure

What’s the Difference Between TeamLab Planets and Borderless?

Visit Tokyo’s Indoor Entertainment Complexes

When it’s raining in Tokyo, I love going to one of the city’s big entertainment centers. These places have everything in one place—arcades, bowling, karaoke, indoor theme parks, and even spas. I can spend hours playing games at Joypolis, singing in a private karaoke booth, or relaxing at an onsen inside a shopping mall. It’s a great way to stay dry and have fun!

Hey, check out these recommendations I have for you!

Before going any further, take a look at some of the recommendations I've handpicked for you. I think these are essential items you should have on your trip to Japan. You can check them out and buy them directly from Amazon.

A universal travel adapter	A 10,000 mAh power bank	A travel adapter and converter

• Joypolis – I love visiting Joypolis when it’s raining because it’s one of the biggest indoor amusement parks in Tokyo. It is in Odaiba, and it’s very easy to get there by taking the Yurikamome Line. It’s full of VR attractions, interactive rides, and arcade games.
• DiverCity Tokyo Plaza – This shopping mall in Odaiba is more than just stores. It also has the life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue! Inside, there’s a food court, a small arcade, and lots of souvenir shops, so I can easily spend hours here. It’s right near Tokyo Teleport Station, so it’s easy to get there.
• Unko Museum — A museum dedicated to, you guessed it, poop! Surprisingly, it’s much more entertaining than it seems! Everything is colorful, playful, and perfect for Instagram, with poop-themed games and unusual interactive exhibits. It is located in Odaiba, just a short walk from Tokyo Teleport Station.
• Red Tokyo Tower — As you may have guessed, it is located inside Tokyo Tower and it has a huge place with arcades, esports, and digital art. It’s easy to get to from Akabanebashi or Kamiyacho stations, and it’s a great way to see Tokyo Tower from the inside while having fun.
• Legoland – This indoor theme park is made for kids, but I think LEGO fans of all ages can have fun here. There are creative zones where you can build things, as well as rides and a miniature version of Tokyo. It is located inside Decks Tokyo Beach in Odaiba, just a few minutes from Tokyo Teleport Station.

Watch Tokyo from Above

Even on a rainy day, seeing Tokyo from above is amazing. The city’s skyline looks moody and atmospheric, and from places like Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree, you can still catch breathtaking views when the clouds move. These places also have shopping areas, cafés, and interactive exhibits to explore while you wait for the perfect moment to take a picture.

• Tokyo Skytree – Tokyo Skytree is the tallest structure in Japan and has two observation decks. It is in Sumida, and it’s easy to get there from the Tokyo Skytree Station or Oshiage Station. On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji!
• Tokyo Tower – Tokyo Tower is a classic symbol of the city. It has two observatories with fantastic views of central Tokyo. It is in Minato, and it’s a short walk from Akabanebashi or Onarimon Stations. The lower floors also have shops and a small theme park.
• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building – This free observation deck in Shinjuku offers one of the best views of the Tokyo skyline. It’s located near Tochomae Station and also within walking distance from Shinjuku Station.
• Sunshine 60 Observatory – This observatory in Ikebukuro has a 360-degree view from the 60th floor, with digital displays for an even better experience. It’s an easy walk from Ikebukuro Station, so it’s a convenient place to visit during a day of shopping or exploring the area.
• Tokyo City View at Roppongi Hills – This observatory in Roppongi Hills offers a stunning view of the city, especially at night. It is located near Roppongi Station. It has an indoor gallery and access to the open-air Sky Deck on clear days.

Relax in a Traditional Japanese Bathhouse

There’s nothing better than a warm bath on a rainy day, and Tokyo’s traditional Japanese bathhouses offer this experience. You can go to a sento (public bath) or an onsen (hot spring) and forget about the rain completely. Some places even have outdoor baths where you can enjoy the sound of raindrops while staying warm. It’s a great way to experience a bit of Japanese culture in the most relaxing way possible!

• Spa LaQua – This onsen-style spa is in Tokyo Dome City, so it’s very easy to get to. I love that it has natural hot spring water pumped from deep underground, as well as outdoor baths, saunas, and massage services. After your bath, you can grab a bite at the relaxation area or explore the shops nearby.
• Thermae-Yu – This spa is in the heart of Shinjuku. It’s open 24/7, so I can go whenever I need to relax or escape the crowds or bad weather. The baths are inspired by traditional onsen and are very relaxing.

Try a Hands-On Cultural Workshop

When it’s raining in Tokyo, I love the idea of participating in a cultural workshop. It’s a fun way to experience Japanese traditions without just watching from the sidelines. You could learn calligraphy, make sushi, or try a tea ceremony. You’d get a souvenir, but also a real memory. It’s also a great way to relax and appreciate the culture, especially when the weather isn’t great for exploring outside.

• Tea Ceremony – A traditional tea ceremony lets visitors learn about Japanese culture. Guests learn the exact rules for preparing and serving matcha tea and appreciate the beauty of the ritual. You can find these ceremonies in places called tea houses or cultural centers in Tokyo.
• Ikebana (Flower Arranging) – Ikebana is a Japanese art of flower arranging. It focuses on harmony, simplicity, and natural beauty. You can take hands-on classes in Tokyo to learn how to create beautiful and elegant arrangements.
• Calligraphy – Japanese calligraphy, also called shodō, is an old art form where people write Japanese letters with a brush and ink. Visitors can create their own beautiful kanji on paper or even fans at workshops that teach basic strokes and techniques.
• Sushi Making Class – At sushi-making classes, you will learn how to make sushi from professional chefs. Participants learn to prepare sushi rice, slice fresh fish, and assemble different types of sushi, such as nigiri and maki rolls. These classes are popular in Tokyo and often include a tasting session at the end.

Go Shopping in Tokyo’s Best Indoor Malls

On a rainy day, visiting one of Tokyo’s big indoor malls is a great way to stay dry and still enjoy the city. These malls are more than just places to shop. They have lots of entertainment, themed stores, and amazing food courts. I can find unique souvenirs, check out the latest Japanese fashion, and try delicious local snacks. Many of these malls also have arcades, mini theme parks, and indoor gardens, which makes them a fun place to escape the rain.

• Ginza Six – This fancy shopping complex in the middle of Ginza is full of expensive brands, cool boutiques, and great restaurants. Even if I’m not looking for expensive clothes, I enjoy walking around and seeing the nice views of the city. It’s easy to get to, just a short walk from Ginza Station.
• Shibuya Hikarie – This modern mall is right next to Shibuya Station and it’s a great place to escape the crowds! It is full of interesting stores, Japanese beauty brands, and restaurants. There’s also a small art space and a theater.
• Tokyo Midtown – This complex is located in Roppongi. I like how it has a mix of luxury and casual stores, plus some great places to eat. It’s also home to the Suntory Museum of Art, with its serene indoor-outdoor feel that makes it a pleasant place to be, even on a rainy day.

Conclusion

A rainy day in Tokyo doesn’t have to be boring. You can use it as an opportunity to do things you would not have time for otherwise. You could spend the day at a museum, relax in an onsen (traditional Japanese hot spring), or try the city’s food. So don’t worry about the weather. Just use this guide to grab a few ideas ang make the most of your trip!