A well-planned Tokyo itinerary can help you make the most of your time in this vibrant city, known for its mix of modern life and rich traditions. Whether you’re visiting iconic sites like the Tokyo Skytree, or strolling through peaceful gardens, Tokyo has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll take you through different itineraries tailored for 3, 5, and 7 days. Each one is packed with must-see landmarks, hidden gems, and tips to help you navigate the city’s bustling streets with ease.
Dive in and discover the best Tokyo has to offer, no matter how long your stay.
3-Day Tokyo Itinerary
A 3-day trip to Tokyo is short but packed with adventure. You’ll get a taste of the city’s rich history, its cutting-edge technology, and the unique vibe that makes Tokyo so fascinating. The key here is balance — a mix of traditional sites and modern experiences. Let’s dive into what you can do over these three days.
Day 1: Asakusa, Akihabara, and Tokyo Skytree
Start your journey in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most famous traditional districts. The area is home to Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Walking through Nakamise Street, leading up to the temple, you’ll find tons of little shops selling snacks and souvenirs. This street is great for people-watching and grabbing a bite to eat.
From there, head over to Tokyo Skytree, a short ride away. You can go up to the observation deck and enjoy some stunning views of the entire city. If you’re feeling hungry, there’s a huge shopping complex at the base where you can grab a meal or snack.
In the afternoon, make your way to Akihabara, known for its vibrant electronics stores and anime culture. Even if you’re not into anime, it’s still a fun place to walk around. There’s always something interesting to see, whether it’s a vintage electronics shop or a themed café.
Day 2: Shibuya, Harajuku, and Meiji Shrine
On your second day, dive into the energetic districts of Shibuya and Harajuku. Start with Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing. It’s a chaotic but fun experience, and while you’re in the area, you can visit the Hachiko Statue nearby.
Afterward, head over to Harajuku. This area is famous for its unique fashion and quirky vibe, especially along Takeshita Street. It’s packed with shops selling everything from trendy clothes to fun, Instagram-worthy snacks like rainbow-colored cotton candy.
Next, walk to Meiji Shrine, which is a peaceful escape from the busy streets. Surrounded by a forested area, the shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and is one of the most important shrines in Tokyo. Take some time here to relax and enjoy the calm atmosphere before heading back into the hustle and bustle.
Day 3: Tsukiji Market, Imperial Palace, and Shinjuku
On your last day, start with a visit to Tsukiji Outer Market. While the famous fish market has moved, the outer market is still alive with vendors selling fresh seafood, snacks, and produce. Try some sushi for breakfast – it doesn’t get fresher than this!
Next, make your way to the Imperial Palace Gardens. You can’t enter the palace itself, but the gardens are open to the public and offer a peaceful space to walk around, with beautiful trees and ponds.
Finish your day in Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s most famous neighborhoods. Visit Shinjuku Gyoen, a large park with a mix of traditional Japanese gardens and European-style landscaping. If you want to experience Tokyo’s nightlife, Kabukicho is the place to go. It’s lively and full of entertainment options, from karaoke bars to izakayas.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Asakusa, Akihabara, and Tokyo Skytree | Visit Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo Skytree, explore Akihabara’s electronics and anime shops. |
| Day 2: Shibuya, Harajuku, and Meiji Shrine | Experience Shibuya Crossing, shop at Harajuku, and visit the tranquil Meiji Shrine. |
| Day 3: Tsukiji Market, Imperial Palace, and Shinjuku | Stroll Tsukiji Outer Market, walk through Imperial Palace Gardens, explore Shinjuku. |
5-Day Tokyo Itinerary
With five days, you’ll have a bit more time to explore different parts of Tokyo at a slower pace, with the chance to add in a few unique experiences that the 3-day plan doesn’t cover. Each day offers something new, but this itinerary builds on what we’ve already seen.
Day 1: Asakusa, Akihabara, and Tokyo Skytree
Stick to the plan from the 3-day itinerary for Day 1. You’ll explore the historical heart of Tokyo in Asakusa, get amazing city views from Tokyo Skytree, and dive into the anime and tech world of Akihabara.
Day 2: Shibuya, Harajuku, and Meiji Shrine
Again, follow Day 2 from the 3-day itinerary. Shibuya and Harajuku are fun, colorful, and packed with energy. Meiji Shrine adds a nice touch of tranquility to balance the day out.
Day 3: Ginza, Ueno Park, and Tokyo National Museum
For Day 3, head to Ginza, Tokyo’s most luxurious shopping district. You don’t need to spend a lot, but it’s worth wandering through the area to check out the designer stores and impressive architecture. You can also visit a traditional kabuki theater if that interests you.
In the afternoon, visit Ueno Park, a vast public park that’s perfect for a relaxing stroll. The park also houses the Tokyo National Museum, which is a must if you want to learn about Japan’s art and history. You’ll find everything from samurai swords to ancient pottery.
Day 4: Odaiba and teamLab Borderless
On Day 4, venture over to Odaiba, a futuristic area built on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. You can easily spend the whole day here, with plenty of shopping malls, waterfront parks, and quirky attractions.
One of the highlights is teamLab Borderless, an immersive digital art museum. You’ll walk through interactive installations of lights, sounds, and colors that feel like stepping into another world. It’s truly a unique experience, and people of all ages love it.
Day 5: Day Trip to Kamakura or Mount Takao
For your final day, take a day trip outside the city. You can either head to Kamakura, a coastal town with beautiful temples and the famous Great Buddha, or hike up Mount Takao for some fresh air and a bit of nature. Both options are about an hour from Tokyo by train, making them perfect for a one-day escape.
Kamakura is the more cultural option, filled with shrines and temples, while Mount Takao is great if you’re looking for an easy hike with rewarding views at the top.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Asakusa, Akihabara, and Tokyo Skytree | Explore Asakusa, visit Tokyo Skytree, and dive into Akihabara’s tech and anime scene. |
| Day 2: Shibuya, Harajuku, and Meiji Shrine | Walk across Shibuya Crossing, shop at Harajuku, and relax at Meiji Shrine. |
| Day 3: Ginza, Ueno Park, and Tokyo National Museum | Wander through Ginza, relax at Ueno Park, and visit the Tokyo National Museum. |
| Day 4: Odaiba and teamLab Borderless | Discover Odaiba and experience the immersive digital art at teamLab Borderless. |
| Day 5: Day Trip to Kamakura or Mount Takao | Choose between a cultural day in Kamakura or a hike up Mount Takao. |
7-Day Tokyo Itinerary
With seven days in Tokyo, you can dive deeper into the city’s neighborhoods and explore areas that most tourists might not see. You’ll also have time for a couple of day trips, giving you a well-rounded Tokyo experience.
Day 1: Asakusa, Akihabara, and Tokyo Skytree
Just like in the shorter itineraries, start your trip with Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, and Akihabara. These spots offer a great mix of tradition, modernity, and quirky charm.
Day 2: Shibuya, Harajuku, and Meiji Shrine
Continue with Shibuya, Harajuku, and Meiji Shrine. These areas are must-see for first-time visitors, and the balance between Shibuya’s chaos and Meiji Shrine’s peacefulness is always refreshing.
Day 3: Ginza, Ueno Park, and Tokyo National Museum
Spend your third day strolling through Ginza, relaxing in Ueno Park, and learning about Japan’s history at the Tokyo National Museum. The combination of luxury, nature, and culture makes for a well-rounded day.
Day 4: Odaiba and teamLab Borderless
Venture to Odaiba for a futuristic day of shopping, waterfront views, and the digital wonderland of teamLab Borderless. This day adds a fun, modern twist to your Tokyo itinerary.
Day 5: Day Trip to Mount Takao or Kamakura
Choose between hiking Mount Takao or visiting the historic temples in Kamakura. Both are great options, depending on whether you’re in the mood for nature or culture. Either way, you’ll get to see a different side of Japan outside the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
Day 6: Shimokitazawa and Nakano Broadway
On Day 6, explore some of Tokyo’s more offbeat neighborhoods. Start in Shimokitazawa, a trendy area known for its vintage shops and indie vibe. It’s a great place to wander, shop for second-hand clothes, or grab a coffee at one of the many local cafes.
Afterward, head to Nakano Broadway, a shopping complex filled with rare anime and manga merchandise, collectibles, and vintage toys. It’s a bit of a hidden gem compared to Akihabara, but for pop culture fans, it’s a goldmine.
Day 7: Hamarikyu Gardens and Traditional Tea Ceremony
End your Tokyo adventure with a peaceful day at Hamarikyu Gardens, a beautiful park that was once the private garden of a feudal lord. While there, take part in a traditional tea ceremony. It’s a lovely way to reflect on your trip and immerse yourself in a bit of Japanese culture before heading home.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Asakusa, Akihabara, and Tokyo Skytree | Visit Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple, enjoy views from Tokyo Skytree, and explore Akihabara. |
| Day 2: Shibuya, Harajuku, and Meiji Shrine | Cross Shibuya Crossing, explore Harajuku, and enjoy the peace of Meiji Shrine. |
| Day 3: Ginza, Ueno Park, and Tokyo National Museum | Explore Ginza’s luxury shops, relax at Ueno Park, visit Tokyo National Museum. |
| Day 4: Odaiba and teamLab Borderless | Spend the day at futuristic Odaiba and visit the teamLab Borderless digital art museum. |
| Day 5: Day Trip to Kamakura or Mount Takao | Take a day trip to Kamakura’s temples or hike up Mount Takao. |
| Day 6: Shimokitazawa and Nakano Broadway | Explore Shimokitazawa’s vintage shops and visit Nakano Broadway for collectibles. |
| Day 7: Hamarikyu Gardens and Traditional Tea Ceremony | End the trip with a peaceful visit to Hamarikyu Gardens and a traditional tea ceremony. |
Practical Tips for Visiting Tokyo
Visiting Tokyo can be exciting and fun. But knowing a few handy tips can help your trip go smoothly. This city is big and busy, so being prepared can really make a difference.
First, getting around Tokyo is easy but can feel a bit confusing. The trains and subways work really well. It’s smart to get a prepaid card, like Suica or Pasmo. This card lets you ride buses and trains without buying tickets each time. You can save time and enjoy your trip more. Try to avoid busy times in the morning and evening, as trains can get crowded.
Second, don’t worry too much about the language. While not everyone speaks English, many signs are in English, especially in tourist areas. It can help to have a translation app on your phone or carry a small phrasebook. This way, you can ask for help when you need it.
Also, remember that cash is important in Tokyo. Some places take credit cards, but many smaller shops and restaurants prefer cash. Be sure to have some yen handy. You can find ATMs in convenience stores, like 7-Eleven, which are easy to use for foreign cards.
Tokyo is a safe city. Still, you should stay alert. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. While crime is low, being cautious is always a good idea.
Lastly, if you visit temples or shrines, be respectful. Follow the customs, like washing your hands at the entrance fountains. It’s also polite to bow a little when entering or leaving. Keeping quiet in these spaces is a sign of respect too.
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Tokyo’s Culture and History
Tokyo has a rich history and culture. It mixes the old and the new in many ways. When you visit, you’ll see this blend everywhere you go.
Originally, Tokyo was a small fishing village called Edo. In the 1600s, it became the capital of Japan under the Tokugawa Shogunate. You can still see this history in places like Edo Castle and the Asakusa district. The Imperial Palace now stands where the old castle was. This is a great spot to learn about Tokyo’s royal past.
Tokyo’s culture also has deep roots in Buddhism and Shintoism. You’ll find many temples and shrines across the city. Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa is one of the oldest. It has a giant red lantern and a lively shopping street, giving you a taste of history in a busy setting.
At the same time, Tokyo is famous for pop culture. It leads the world in anime, manga, and trendy fashion. Areas like Akihabara are filled with shops selling anime merchandise, gadgets, and themed cafes. This adds a modern twist to the city’s culture.
The mix of old and new makes Tokyo special. You can walk through busy streets filled with skyscrapers, then find a peaceful garden or shrine. This balance is a big part of what makes Tokyo so interesting and a key part of any Tokyo itinerary.
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Food and Restaurants in Tokyo
Tokyo is a food lover’s dream. With many Michelin-starred restaurants and tons of street food, you’ll find something to enjoy everywhere.
Start your food journey at Tsukiji Outer Market. This place is great for seafood. You can try fresh sushi and sashimi for breakfast, making for a delicious start to your day. Though the wholesale market has moved to Toyosu, the outer market is still a must-visit for tasty bites.
For a quick and cheap meal, look for ramen or yakitori restaurants. Ramen shops are all over Tokyo, each offering different flavors. You might enjoy Ichiran Ramen, where you customize your bowl in a private booth. If you like grilled food, Omoide Yokocho near Shinjuku has many small places serving yakitori skewers.
Tokyo also has traditional multi-course meals called kaiseki. If you want something fancy, Narisawa or Sukiyabashi Jiro are fantastic choices. They focus on seasonal ingredients and provide a unique dining experience. Just remember to book ahead.
For dessert, try mochi, taiyaki, or the famous crepes in Harajuku. These colorful treats are great for satisfying your sweet tooth after a day of exploring.
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Transportation in Tokyo
Getting around Tokyo is easy once you understand how things work. The train and subway systems are reliable and can take you almost anywhere.
JR East runs the main train services, while the subway is managed by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway. The JR Yamanote Line is perfect for tourists since it loops around the city and stops at many key areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku. If you plan to visit places outside of Tokyo, consider getting a JR Pass for unlimited rides on JR trains.
Using a Suica or Pasmo card is essential. This prepaid card is easy to use for transport and at convenience stores or vending machines. Just tap it at the gates, and you’re set. Keep in mind that trains stop running after midnight, so if you’re out late, you might need to take a taxi.
Taxis in Tokyo are safe and clean but can be expensive compared to public transport. Drivers are usually polite and professional. It’s a good idea to have your destination written in Japanese or show it on your phone to make communication easier.
If you like biking, Tokyo is becoming more bike-friendly. You can rent bikes in some areas. Riding through Ueno and Asakusa can be enjoyable, letting you see quieter parts of the city at your own pace.
Conclusion
Tokyo has so much to offer, no matter how long you stay. A good Tokyo itinerary will help you see its rich culture, history, and delicious food. Whether you’re in the city for a few days or more, the mix of experiences will create wonderful memories.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Tokyo?
The best time to visit Tokyo is in spring (March to May) when cherry blossoms bloom, creating stunning landscapes. Autumn (September to November) is also beautiful, with vibrant foliage and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
What are must-see attractions in Tokyo?
Must-see attractions include the Tokyo Tower, where you can get a panoramic view of the city, and the historic Meiji Shrine, which offers a serene escape from the urban hustle. Don’t forget to visit Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, and Akihabara, the heart of anime and gaming culture.
How can I get around Tokyo?
Tokyo’s subway and train systems are highly efficient and can take you almost anywhere in the city. Consider getting a prepaid Suica or Pasmo card, which makes traveling on public transport easy and convenient, allowing for quick entry and exit without needing to buy individual tickets.
What is the food like in Tokyo?
Tokyo offers a diverse culinary scene, from high-end sushi restaurants to cozy ramen shops. Street food is also popular, with options like takoyaki and yakitori available at various stalls, giving you a taste of local flavors on the go.
Is English widely spoken in Tokyo?
While many signs are in English, not everyone speaks it fluently. However, younger generations and those working in tourism often have some English proficiency. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can enhance your experience and help you connect with locals.
How safe is Tokyo for tourists?
Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world, with low crime rates and a strong presence of police. The locals are friendly and helpful, making it easy for tourists to feel secure while navigating the city.
What types of accommodations are available in Tokyo?
Tokyo has a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets, from luxury hotels to capsule hotels and traditional ryokans. Booking in advance can help you find better deals, especially during peak tourist seasons, so consider your options based on your preferences and budget.
How do I exchange currency in Tokyo?
Exchanging currency in Tokyo is easy, with options like banks, ATMs, and currency exchange counters available. Many convenience stores also offer international ATMs, which can provide better exchange rates compared to traditional exchange counters, so it’s a good idea to compare options before exchanging money.
Things to do in Tokyo
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From/To Tokyo City (including Tokyo Port) 8 Hours Tokyo Excursion – $787.40 This tour allows customization for 8 hours. It includes a comfortable vehicle and a knowledgeable guide who will also help take photos. |
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Kamakura Temples Private Guided Tour from Tokyo – $252.32 This concise tour takes you to Kamakura’s famous temples, including the Great Buddha and Hase Temple, along with a chance for a Japanese lunch. |
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Nikko All Must-Sees Private Chauffeur Sightseeing with a Driver (Tokyo DEP.) – $929.68 This private tour lets you explore Nikko’s highlights without the hassle of public transport. Enjoy beautiful scenery and a full day of sights. |
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Mt. Fuji Cherry Blossom One Day Tour From Tokyo – $979.33 This tour is perfect for those wanting to see cherry blossoms around Mt. Fuji, which bloom later than in Tokyo. Mt. Fuji is a must-see! |
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Hakone Gotemba Full Day Tour from Tokyo with Guide and Vehicle – $1,114.99 This private tour offers a visit to Hakone, where you can enjoy beautiful views, hot springs, and unique local art experiences. |
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Kamakura Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Tokyo – $1,101.04 Discover Kamakura’s famous temples and gardens. Enjoy the ocean views and local treats while learning about the area with a guide. |
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Isabella Ramirez is a Colombian writer with a decade of freelance experience, infusing her work with the vibrant spirit of Bogotá where she was born and raised. Alongside her passion for writing, she finds solace in the company of dogs and draws inspiration from her travels around the globe. Isabella’s versatile portfolio reflects her diverse interests and curiosity about the world, with each piece reflecting her unique perspective and love for storytelling.
