Best Indoor Activities in Tokyo: 5 Fun Things to Do on Rainy or Hot Days
- Patia
- Aug 19
- 4 min read
HELLO, I'M AYU!
I am one of the staff members at Patia, where we offer cooking classes specifically designed for foreign tourists in Tokyo. I have two children, and I love cooking! I look forward to sharing my passion for cooking with you and making your experience in Japan truly memorable!
Planning your trip to Tokyo and wondering what to do when the weather isn't perfect?
Whether you're visiting during the rainy season or facing a hot and humid summer day, Tokyo offers many exciting things to do inside, where you can stay cool, dry, and still enjoy rich cultural and modern experiences.
In this article, we’ll introduce 5 carefully selected indoor attractions in Tokyo that are perfect for international visitors—whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends and family.
Table of Contents
1. Join a Japanese Cooking Class at Patia
If you’re looking for a memorable cultural experience, a Japanese cooking class is the perfect choice. At Patia, located in central Tokyo, you can learn how to make iconic dishes such as:
・Sushi (including temari, inari, and wagyu sushi)
・Jiro-style ramen from scratch
・Cute and creative “character bento” (kyaraben)
Classes are taught in English by friendly and experienced instructors who make it fun and easy for beginners. This is more than a class—it’s a great opportunity to meet locals and take home a unique skill.
Basic Information
Name:
Patia's Japanese Cooking Class in Tokyo
Location / Address:
Venue details will generally be emailed 3 days before the class, after booking.
Official Website / Booking Page
2. Experience a Traditional Tea Ceremony Near Shinjuku Gyoen
Step into the world of Japanese tradition with a tea ceremony experience at Urasenke Wood Tea Room, located just in front of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
In this experience, you’ll explore the spirit of Japanese hospitality, known as omotenashi, which originates from the Zen-inspired concept of wabi-spirit and evolved into wabi-tea. We will introduce the philosophy behind hospitality and tea, explain what the tea ceremony involves, and share the values that are deeply cherished in this art form.
During the session, you will:
Learn about the spirit of omotenashi and wabi-tea
Discover how to enjoy traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi)
Watch a tea ceremony demonstration with clear explanations
Try making matcha (powdered green tea) yourself
Learn how to enjoy tea in the proper, mindful way
This experience offers a peaceful introduction to Japanese culture in the heart of Tokyo.
Basic Information
Name:
Urasenke Wood Tea Ceremony School
Location / Address:
2-4-6 Shinjuku,Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Official Website / Booking Page
3. Explore Shopping and Japanese Food at Isetan Shinjuku
Tokyo’s department stores are much more than places to shop—they’re cultural landmarks!
At Isetan Shinjuku, you’ll find:
A gourmet “depachika” (food basement) with sushi, bento, desserts, and Japanese snacks
Luxury fashion and souvenirs
Seasonal events, exhibitions, and pop-up stores
A wide variety of restaurants offering everything from casual bites to fine dining
It’s a great place to stay inside, try new foods, and shop for high-quality gifts to take home.
Basic Information
Name:
Isetan Shinjuku
Location / Address:
3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Business Hours:
10:00~20:00
7F Restaurants: 11:00~22:00 *Opening hours depends on the store.
Official Website
4. Relax and Recharge at Spa LaQua
Take a break from sightseeing and enjoy a relaxing time at Spa LaQua, located near Tokyo Dome. This urban oasis features:
Natural hot spring baths (indoors & semi-outdoor)
Sauna and wellness treatments
Lounge areas for reading, napping, or watching TV
Open until late, Spa LaQua is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. English-speaking support and foreigner-friendly facilities make it a smooth experience.
Basic Information
Name:
Tokyo Joypolis
Location / Address:
1-1-1 Kasuga, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
LaQua Building 5F-9F (front desk on 6F)
Business Hours:
11:00 to 9:00 the next morning
*Bathroom use until 8:30 the next morning (open-air bath until 7:30 the next morning)
*Last admission: 8:00 the next morning
Admission fee: *Prices vary depending on the day.
Adults (18 years and over) From 3,500 yen
Ages 6-17 From 3,200 yen
Admission for TD Points members and Tokyo Dome City app presentation From 2,900 yen
Official Website
5. Play and Explore at Tokyo Joypolis (Odaiba)
For a dose of fun and futuristic entertainment, head to Tokyo Joypolis—an indoor amusement park in Odaiba operated by SEGA.
Here you can enjoy:
VR attractions and interactive games
Indoor roller coasters and thrill rides
Anime and game-themed zones
It’s a fantastic rainy-day activity for gamers, families, and anime fans alike.
Basic Information
Name:
Tokyo Joypolice
Location / Address:
1-6-1 Daiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tickets & Business Hours:
Ticket prices and opening hours may vary depending on the date or event.
For the most up-to-date information, please check the official website below:
Official Website
Ready to Discover Tokyo’s Best Indoor Activities?
No matter the weather, Tokyo has plenty of exciting things to do inside. From authentic cultural experiences like tea ceremonies and cooking classes to modern fun at spas and digital amusement parks, you’ll never run out of options.
Looking for the perfect rainy day or indoor activity in Tokyo?
Try one of our recommended spots and make your Tokyo trip truly unforgettable!
For Those Interested in Exploring Other Japanese Cuisine: "Patia’s Japanese Cooking Classes"
In this blog post, we introduced some of the best indoor activities in Tokyo. At Patia, we also offer a variety of Japanese cooking classes. From making sushi to creating adorable character bento (kyaraben) that showcase Japanese culture, these hands-on experiences are something you can only try in Japan. Be sure to check out our other classes too!
We share behind-the-scenes moments, cooking tips, and beautiful photos from our classes on Instagram! Follow us and join the Tokyo food adventure.
Find us on Instagram @patiajapanesecooking
Contact Us
If you have any questions or want to learn more about our cooking classes, feel free to get in touch! We’re here to help you create unforgettable culinary experiences during your stay in Japan.
