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Tokyo, Japan is a buzzing city unlike any other place we have visited. Dotted with famous Tokyo must-see sights – like Sensoji Temple and the Imperial Palace – hidden gems are found in the depths of the sprawling districts.
In the tangle of streets, we spent long days sightseeing in Tokyo, discovering a unique culture and tasting delicious cuisine. Our Tokyo Itinerary condenses our best experiences into 3 Days in Tokyo!
3-Day Tokyo Itinerary
Tokyo, Japan is densely packed with eateries, bars, people and culture. All of which may overwhelm a Tokyo first-time visitor.
It can be a daunting task trying to figure out what to see in Tokyo in 3 Days. However, a solid plan allows visitors just enough time to get acquainted with the city. Our Tokyo, Japan Itinerary focuses on the top experiences that you won’t want to miss!
Tokyo 3 Days Itinerary Tips
Before we dive into our list of things to do in Tokyo, Japan, we have a few initial tips about visiting the city.
Navigating Tokyo
Sights in our 3 Day Tokyo Itinerary are grouped by neighborhood and listed in order. Our Tokyo tour itinerary covers some ground and to get between sights we indicate our preferred method. We provide more information later about how to get around Tokyo.
Tokyo Maps and Details
To help make our Tokyo Itinerary simple, we have included information and/or links to each place. We also provide a pin drop for each sight in our Tokyo 3 Day Itinerary for easy navigation. At the end of our Tokyo travel itinerary, we include a map with all sights marked.
Tokyo WiFi
Having an internet connection is essential when sightseeing Tokyo! There are free Wi-Fi spots throughout the city, but it’s better to have your own. Plan accordingly – by either adjusting your phone plan prior to arrival, renting a mobile hotspot (also called Pocket Wi-Fi) or purchasing an eSIM/SIM card.
3 Days in Tokyo Budget
Tokyo is a notoriously expensive destination. However, budget travelers will be happy to know there are several free things to do in Tokyo. Many of which are featured in our list of things to see in Tokyo in 3 days!
We have indicated if there is a fee to enter the sights on our Three Days in Tokyo Itinerary. Therefore, our Tokyo trip itinerary blog can be used by anyone traveling to the city – with some slight adjustments.
Tokyo Day Trips
There are many places to visit near Tokyo as well! Day trips out of Tokyo allow for further exploration. At the end of the article we share the top short trips from Tokyo – and ideas for weekend excursions, too!
Suggested Tokyo Itineraries
Below we provide a detailed outline of how to spend three perfect days in Tokyo. But what if you have more (or less) time? We can help with shorter and longer Tokyo trip planning, too! At the end of the post, we include Tokyo sample itineraries for 1 to 7 days.
Planning a longer trip to Japan? Use our 2-Week Japan Itinerary that includes seeing Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko as well as spending 3 Days in Kyoto!
What To Do in Tokyo in 3 Days
Our Tokyo travel blog includes all the prime attractions. Top recommendations for food and drink are also provided to help make this the absolute best Tokyo Itinerary! That said, we share even more details in our articles: What To Eat in Tokyo and The Best Tokyo Bars.
Save, Bookmark or Pin this Tokyo Travel Guide to plan your trip to Japan!
Day 1 in Tokyo
On Day 1 of your Tokyo three-day itinerary, explore the Asakusa, Ueno and Sumida districts – starting (and ending) at the famous Sensoji Temple.
Sensoji Temple
The Sensoji Temple is the oldest and largest temple in the city – and visiting it is a Tokyo must-do! Founded 645, the key sights include the Kaminarimon Gate (Thunder Gate), the market on Nakamise dori, the temple itself, Sensoji Pagoda and the Asakusa Shrine.
Find more information about Sensoji and other must-see temples in our article, The Best Temples in Tokyo. Free | Subway | Map | Info
Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
In addition to free maps and information, the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center has a top-floor café with views of Sensoji Temple and SkyTree. The center is also a great place for Japanese culture for tourists.
They organize free Asakusa tours on weekends, free Geisha performances and a range of classes for visitors to learn more about the Japanese culture. We highly recommend the Geisha performance – as it was a highlight of our Tokyo trip! Free | Walk | Map | Info
Ameyoko Market
Located beneath the Yamanote Line tracks, the Ameyoko Market is one of the most popular open-air markets in Tokyo. Featuring more than 180 market stalls selling everything from fresh fish to fashionable clothing, Ameyoko Market is a feast for the senses!
Grab something to eat at the market for lunch. We recommend getting take-away menchi katsu croquettes from Niku no Oyama (Meat Dish and Beer). Subway | Map | Info
Ueno Park
One of the oldest and most visited parks in Tokyo, Ueno was established in 1873. In addition to the numerous cherry trees (which attract many visitors during cherry blossom season), Ueno Park is also home to multiple museums. Free | Walk | Map | Info
Museums at Ueno Park
Among the open space and cherry tree-lined paths at Ueno Park, several of the city’s top museums are found. You could spend an entire day just visiting these museums, but with limited time in Tokyo, we recommend just going to one. We chose to visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum.
Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum
Featuring a variety of artwork styles, the museum displays artwork from masters and budding artists. Free (some exhibitions cost) | Map | Info
Tokyo National Museum
Housing both permanent and rotating exhibits, the Tokyo National Museum displays art and antiquities from Japan and Asia. 1000 yen | Map | Info
National Museum of Nature and Science Tokyo
The National Museum of Nature and Science first opened in 1871. The exhibits focus on natural history and interactive science experiences. 630 yen | Map | Info
Ueno Zoo
Established in 1882, the Ueno Zoo houses more than 3,000 animals – including giant pandas, gorillas and tigers. 600 yen | Map | Info
Tokyo SkyTree
The SkyTree Tower, which was built for broadcasting – features a rotating restaurant, observation deck and is a must-see in Tokyo, Japan. Other attractions near SkyTree include the Sumida Aquarium, Planetarium, Solamachi Shopping Center and the Postal Museum.
Visitors to SkyTree observation deck are treated to panoramic views of Tokyo. Tickets can be purchased in advance. Bus | Map | Info
Asahi Brewery Building
Tokyo’s iconic Asahi Brewery Building houses the company’s corporate headquarters (not the actual brewery). The building was designed to look like a tall glass of frothy beer and the Asahi Flame is meant to represent that same frothiness. However, many just refer to it as The Golden Poo!
The 22nd Floor Asahi Sky Room bar offers patrons stellar views of the city. Drink Purchase | Walk | Map | Info
Azuma Bridge
Spanning the Sumida River, the Azuma Bridge dates to 1774, although the current structure was completed in 1931. The bridge and western riverside provide a great vantage point to see SkyTree and the Asahi Building. Free | Walk | Map | Info
DINNER: Sometaro Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki – or Japanese savory pancakes – are classic Japanese cuisine that every visitor should try. At Sometaro Okonomiyaki, guests sit on mats on the floor around a small teppan grill. After ordering from a range of standard and innovative options, the raw ingredients are brought to the table. Patrons then cook the okonomiyaki themselves – creating a unique and memorable experience! Walk | Map | Info
Hoppy Street, Tokyo
Running more than 250 feet along the west side of Sensoji Temple is Hoppy Street. Packed with small bars, the street is known for the “Hoppy” alcoholic mixer that most of the establishments sell. Tables and chairs spill out onto the street and a jovial atmosphere abounds. Whether stopping for a drink or just out for a stroll, Hoppy Street is entertaining, especially in the evening! Walk | Map | Info
Kamiya Bar
For an after-dinner drink, stop by the historic Kamiya Bar. Dating to 1880, the classic beer hall is known for their ‘Electric Brandy’ drink, called Denki Bran. The cocktail is a secret concoction of brandy, gin, wine, curacao and herbs. Denki Bran is 400 yen; a liter of Asahi Beer is 1,450 yen | Walk | Map | Info
Sensoji Temple at Night
As stunning as Sensoji Temple is during daylight hours, it’s even more amazing at night. Although the temple and shopping street are closed, it is worth it to circle back around to see Sensoji, the pagoda and Thunder Gate lit up at night. Free | Walk | Map | Info
Day 2 in Tokyo
Today you’ll explore the sights in a few of Tokyo’s most iconic districts: Shibuya, Harajuku and Shinjuku.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Start Day 2 of your Tokyo, Japan travel itinerary at one of the tallest buildings in the city, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. The soaring skyscraper houses the government offices for all 23 Wards of the city. The reason to include it on your itinerary for Tokyo, however, is that the building has two observation decks on the 45th floor – which are free!
There is no outdoor space, but the floor-to-ceiling windows provide sweeping views of the city. On clear days, it’s possible to see Mount Fuji! Free | Subway | Map | Info
Meiji Jingu Shrine
The Meiji Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken and was built shortly after their deaths in 1912. Located in a city-center forest, visitors walk through the lush grounds to get to the shrine. Free | Walk or Subway | Map | Info
Yoyogi Park
One of the city’s most popular green spaces, Yoyogi Park features ponds and lush nature. It also has a historic past. Prior to becoming a park, the land was used as an airfield, army parade grounds, military barracks and the 1964 Olympic Village.
Today, the area is used by families and friends as a place to relax and enjoy nature. It’s especially crowded in the spring for the cherry blossoms and in the autumn when the leaves change colors. Free | Walk | Map | Info
Takeshita Dori
The pedestrian-only shopping street, Takeshita dori, is the epicenter of Japan’s Kawaii (“cute”) culture – and it ranks high on our list of Tokyo must-see sights!
Lined with boutique shops and candy stores, Takeshita dori is a haven for the city’s youth. Girls wear (and shop for) unique Kawaii fashion trends while ingesting rainbow-colored sweet treats. It can feel a little over-the-top, but strolling the length of the street is a great introduction to Kawaii.
Pop into Daiso, the Japanese dollar store, where most items are just 108 yen (which make great gifts and souvenirs!). We also highly recommend joining the masses and getting a sweet treat from Marion Crepes. Walk | Map | Info
Tokyo Plaza Omotesando
The Tokyo Plaza Omotesando mall provides a posh shopping experience with upscale boutique shops selling the latest trends. However, it isn’t just about the shopping. Many visitors go to the mall just to ride the escalators through the mirrored entrance, while others skip past all the shops and head straight for the Starbucks on the rooftop garden. Walk | Map | Info
Cat Street, Tokyo
Having absolutely nothing to do with cats, Cat Street is one of the trendiest streets in Tokyo for fashion and food. While Takeshita dori caters to the youth of Tokyo, Cat Street attracts a slightly older crowd. Featuring trendsetting international brands and local designers, the street runs a half-mile (but the side alleys shouldn’t be missed!).
There are numerous eateries along the route, but for a quick bite, we recommend Harajuku Gyozaro (a classic Tokyo snack!). Walk | Map | Info
Shibuya Center-Gai
Filled with fashion outlets, chain restaurants, bizarre shops and nightclubs, Shibuya Center-Gai boasts a lively atmosphere both day and night. Large signs, which are illuminated after dark, loom over the pedestrian paths that are packed with people.
A top destination is Shibuya 109, a mall with more than 100 boutique retailers. Visitors can easily be entertained for hours at Shibuya Center-Gai – whether shopping, eating, drinking or just people watching. Free | Walk | Map | Info
Shibuya Crossing
Also known as the “Shibuya Scramble,” Shibuya Crossing is one of the busiest intersections in the world. When all traffic lights change to red, hundreds (sometimes thousands) of pedestrians surge through the intersection. While joining the hordes on the journey from one corner to the other is an essential Tokyo experience, watching the spectacle from above is mesmerizing.
The best Shibuya viewpoint is from Mags Park, which is a rooftop space on top of MAGNET mall located on the northeast corner. Free | Walk | Map | Info
Hachiko Memorial Statue
Hachiko is Tokyo’s most-loved and loyal dog. He faithfully met his owner every day after work at Shibuya Station to accompany him on the walk home. His owner died suddenly at work, but for the next nine years, Hachiko waited at the station every evening for his return.
The story of Hachiko captured the hearts of the Japanese and has been made a legend in books and movies. His statue stands outside the station, just like he used to. Free | Walk | Map | Info
DINNER: Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho
The narrow alleys at Omoide Yokocho are densely packed with hole-in-the-wall Yakitori eateries. Smoke billows from grills while the scent of sizzling chicken and seafood fill the air. Some restaurants are so tiny that they can only accommodate six patrons.
Although the alleys are located just outside the Shinjuku Station, Omoide Yokocho (also known as Memory Lane or Piss Alley) is an intimate and fun Tokyo restaurant experience. Prices Vary | Subway | Map | Info
Kabukicho Nightlife
Known for its seedy entertainment, Kabukicho glows at night. The Tokyo red-light district is packed with more than 3,000 bars, hostess clubs, massage parlors and love hotels. Although the entertainment in ‘Sleepless Town’ is not for everyone, the lively area is a must-see at night.
Don’t miss the odd/interesting/creepy 40-foot-tall Godzilla Head that peeks over the top of the Toho building and lets out a screech every few minutes. Walk | Map | Info
Golden Gai
There are nearly 200 bars in Golden Gai, all densely packing into six narrow alleys. Many of the bars can only accommodate a handful of patrons and most feature a specific theme. The close proximity of these establishments makes for a great night of Tokyo bar-hopping! Prices Vary | Walk | Map | Info
Day 3 in Tokyo
On day three of your Tokyo city tour itinerary, visit the fish market, discover the Odaiba district and then return to the center for more sightseeing.
Toyosu Fish Market (formerly Tsukiji Fish Market)
Relocated and reopened as the Toyosu Fish Market in October 2018, Tokyo’s fish market ranks as largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world. Although an unseemly tourist destination, visitors can view the tuna auctions from a platform and feast on fresh seafood from the on-site restaurants. Market Prices Vary | Subway | Map | Info
Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo
The Rainbow Bridge straddles Tokyo Bay, connecting Minato to Odaiba. Despite the name, the Tokyo suspension bridge is white and is illuminated with solar lights (in red, green and white) at night. Visitors can walk across the 2,618-foot-long bridge on the pedestrian paths (free/limited hours) or take the metro. Map | Info
Odaiba Island
Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. The site serves as an entertainment district, featuring four shopping centers, as well as Sega World Joypolis, Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum and Legoland Discovery Center. The area also has several museums, observations decks and restaurants. Subway | Map | Info
Odaiba Statue of Liberty
Standing on the Odaiba shore is a 40-foot-tall replica of NYC’s Lady Liberty. However, the Statue of Liberty in Japan has no connection to the United States, rather it represents Japan’s relationship with France. Free | Walk | Map | Info
Gundam Transformer
Fans of The Transformers will want to check out the 60-foot-tall Unicorn Gundam Transformer. Be sure to be there at the top of the hour when the Transformer moves! Free | Walk | Map | Info
Tokyo Station
A major transportation hub, Tokyo Station serves intercity trains and the city’s subway and buses. It is one of Tokyo’s busiest stations, with more than 415,000 passengers utilizing some 3,700 trains daily. Within the structure are numerous shops and restaurants. The original brick building dates to 1914, but only a portion still stands today (west side).
Tokyo Station is a great place to grab lunch! The location features everything from fine dining to grab-and-go options. Subway | Map | Info
Tokyo Imperial Palace
Protected by moats and imposing stone walls, the palace is home to Japan’s Imperial Family. The site is off-limits to visitors except on January 2 and December 23, but the plaza in front of the palace is open to the public.
The iconic Meganebashi Bridge (Eyeglass Bridge) is located near the entrance and is a popular Tokyo tourist photo-op. Free | Walk | Map | Info
Imperial Palace East Gardens
The Imperial Palace East Gardens are the previous site of the Edo Castle. All that remains is the base of the castle tower (which dates to 1638). A Japanese-style garden covers the grounds with many paths weaving through the park.
North of the garden are three large museums: The National Museum of Modern Art Crafts Gallery, the Science Museum and the National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo. Free | Walk | Map | Info
Hotel New Otani’s Garden
The 400-year-old garden at Hotel New Otani is a Tokyo hidden gem. The 10-acre park features red bridges, koi ponds, a waterfall and lush greenery. The beautiful park is open to the public. Free | Walk | Map | Info
Akasaka Palace State Guest House
Built in 1909 as the Crown Prince’s Palace, the Akasaka Palace now serves as a State Guest House, welcoming dignitaries from around the world. The Baroque palace and grounds can be visited when it is vacant. Main Garden admission is 300 yen; buildings and special gardens require separate tickets, starting at 1,500 yen | Walk | Map | Info
Hie Shrine
In Tokyo, many shrines and temples have become tourist attractions, but that is not the case at Hie Shrine. Located on a hill, visitors should look for the back entrance staircase, which is covered in a tunnel of bright red torii gates. Free | Walk | Map | Info
Tokyo Tower
Reminiscent of Paris’ Eiffel Tower, the Tokyo Tower stands at 1,092 feet. Ranking as the second-tallest structure in Japan, the tower is also a tourist attraction. In addition to the observation decks, there are museums, restaurants and shops at its base. Main Deck Adult Ticket 1200 yen; Top Deck Tour Adult Ticket 2,800 yen online and 3,000 in person | Subway | Map | Info
Zojoji Temple
The historic Zojoji Temple sits next to the Tokyo Tower. On the grounds is the Tokugawa Family mausoleum, where six of the Tokugawa shoguns are buried. Visitors can also walk through the Sentai Kosodate Jizo – or the Unborn Children Garden. Parents decorate their statues with clothing and toys. The main gate, Sangedatsumon Gate, is the oldest wooden building in Tokyo, dating to 1622. Free | Walk | Map | Info
Tokyo Midtown
Tokyo Midtown, a mixed-use space, was built in 2007 – and at the time, it ranked as the tallest building in Tokyo. Inside, visitors will find a mall and restaurants as well as the surrounding gardens at Hinokicho Park. Nearby attractions include the Roppongi Hills Mall, the Mori Art Museum, the Suntory Museum of Art and 21_21 Design Sight Gallery. Subway | Map | Info
DINNER: Ippudo Ramen
Proclaimed by many as the best ramen in Tokyo, Ippudo Ramen is dedicated to preparing high-quality ramen and innovative, seasonal specialties. Offering both counter and table seating, Ippudo Ramen has friendly staff and menus in English. Walk | Map | Info
Roppongi Nightlife
Roppongi is well-known as a Tokyo nightlife destination. Upscale restaurants and chic clubs abound in the district. One of the most famous clubs in Roppongi is V2 TOKYO, which occupies the top floor of the Roppongi Roa Building.
We prefer more low-key entertainment and craft beer. Our recommended spots in Roppongi to have a drink are Two Dogs Taproom, Tokyo Old Boys Brewing and BrewDog . Walk | Map | Info
Tokyo Sightseeing Map
Use this link to Google for an interactive Tokyo Map includes all the recommended sights for our 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary!
More Tokyo Exploration
We fit as much as we could into our 3-day Tokyo itinerary! Fellow travelers staying longer may want to add these attractions and sights to see in Tokyo into their trip plan.
Akihabara District
Nicknamed ‘Electric Town,’ the Akihabara District is known for its electronic shops, computer goods, video games, anime and manga. For gamers, it is a must-see Tokyo district; some of the top arcades to check out are Taito HEY, Super Potato, Club Sega and Game Bar-A-Button. The district also has an abundance of Maid Cafes and a 7-story sex shop, M’s.
Ginza District
Famous for its upscale retailers and dining establishments, the Ginza District is one of the places to visit in Tokyo for shopping. The area was once the site of the city’s silver mint (which is what Ginza translates to in English). Luxury retailers – like Cartier, Chanel and Bulgari – are located in Ginza, along with other high-end flagship stores.
Yokohama City and Chinatown
Just a half-hour train ride from Tokyo is Yokohama, the second-largest city in Japan. Many include visiting Yokohama on their Tokyo trip planner. Not to miss is Chinatown, which has a 150-year history and colorful streets. Another top attraction is The Cup Noodles Museum that traces the history of instant ramen with interactive displays.
Tokyo Karaoke
Karaoke is one of the top things to do in Tokyo, Japan! A mashup of the words kara (empty) and okesutora (orchestra), karaoke was created in Japan in the 1970s and is still very popular today. Tokyo visitors can belt out tunes at bars or in private rooms around the city. We highly recommend participating in the essential Japanese entertainment during your visit!
Pachinko Parlors
Pachinko is Japan’s version of a slot machine – and it’s wildly popular. Visiting a pachinko parlor can result in sensory overload – they are bright and obnoxiously loud. Although the game is a little confusing, it can be fun to try your luck on your Tokyo, Japan trip!
Tokyo Tours and Activities
It it fits into your timeline and daily budget for Tokyo, consider enhancing your experience by joining one of these popular tours or activities.
Tokyo Highlights Tour by Bus
Visit the city’s best in an all in one-day-in-Tokyo tour. See shrines and temples (including Meiji Shrine and Sensoji Temple), government buildings (including House of Parliament and Imperial Palace East Garden) and go shopping in the Ginza district. End your day on a 1-hour cruise in Tokyo Bay then take in the sights in Odaiba. Find out more!
Tokyo Landmarks and Culture Tour
Designed as a Tokyo 1-Day Itinerary Tour, this excursion is packed with top sights. Start the day by soaring to the observation deck of the Tokyo Tower, then participate in a traditional tea ceremony. Continue with the tour group to the Imperial Palace Plaza and learn the history of the emperor’s residence. Next, take a cruise on the Sumida River and make a final stop at the Sensoji Temple. Get the details!
Tokyo Geisha Cultural Experience
Spending time with a Geisha is a fantastic activity to add to your Tokyo travel plan. Spend 1.5 hours in the company of a geisha as you learn about the fascinating Japanese culture. While you enjoy refreshments, the geisha will perform songs, dances and play games. Book it!
Watch a Sumo Wrestling Practice
Most travelers don’t think of wrestling practice as a place to visit in Tokyo, Japan – but it is on this short tour! Learn about the Sumo wresting tradition while you observe morning practice. Spend two hours with your guide and wrestlers at this up-close experience. Find out more!
Go-Kart Street Tour
Get dressed up as your favorite character and then jump behind the wheel of a Go-Kart to explore Tokyo’s city streets. A guide will lead the way to iconic landmarks and top places to visit in Tokyo on this fun-filled adventure. Get the details!
Tokyo in a Day Private Tour
To ensure you tick off your list of Tokyo must see sights, hire a guide that will design a tour specifically to your interests.
Spend either 4 or 8-hours with a professional guide on a tour that features your top places to visit in Tokyo, Japan. Let your guide know exactly what you want to see and let them custom plan a perfect Tokyo sightseeing day for you. Book it now!
Day Trips From Tokyo
There are numerous Tokyo day trips for visitors who are interested in seeing more of Japan on a one-day tour. Both private and group side trips from Tokyo venture to nearby cities and nature parks.
Tokyo to Hakone Day Trip (Mt. Fuji)
Ranked as one of the best day trips from Tokyo, the Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi by Bullet Train trip is a must for visitors who want to escape the city. On the full day Tokyo tour, guests travel to Hokone National Park where they will see Mt. Fuji, take a boat cruise on Lake Ashi and ride the Mt. Komagatake Ropeway for stellar views. Learn more!
Nikko National Park Day Trip from Tokyo
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Waterfall at Nikko National Park on a one-day trip from Tokyo. Get the details!
Kyoto Day Trip from Tokyo
This Kyoto Day Tour includes roundtrip tickets between Tokyo and Kyoto, a professional guide, a Kyoto sightseeing route and provided lunch at an upscale hotel. The tour of Kyoto includes top attractions, like Heian Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Thousand-Armed Kannon at Sanjusangen Hall. Book this trip!
Kamakura and Tokyo Bay Day Trip
Visit historic temples, shrines and gardens in Kamakura on a one-day trip from Tokyo. Highlights include visiting a bamboo grove, seeing the famous Great Buddha, enjoying matcha green tea and eating a Japanese-style lunch on Enoshima Island. Find out more!
How Many Days in Tokyo
Before you think about how to plan a trip to Tokyo, you need to think about your interests, how fast you want to sightsee and your overall budget.
The list of what to see in Tokyo, Japan is endless. Our itinerary of things to do in Tokyo in 3 days is jam-packed with the top sights and neighborhoods. That said, we would have no problem spending a week in Tokyo.
Pro Tip: Consider using our Travel Planning Printables to get your vacation to Japan organized!
Planning a Tokyo Trip: 1-7 Days
Planning a trip to Tokyo, Japan can be overwhelming! We encourage other travelers to create their best Tokyo itinerary by using our list of things to see as a guideline. To help those with more (or less) time, we have created several sample itineraries for Tokyo, Japan.
Half Day in Tokyo
If you want to create a Tokyo half-day itinerary, we recommend picking just one or two sights that are close together. For example, you could pair Sensoji Temple and SkyTree, or the Imperial Palace and Gardens, or Shibuya Center-Gai and Shibuya Crossing. Alternatively, you could book a half-day Tokyo tour with a private guide.
One Day in Tokyo
Trying to see Tokyo in a day is tough. But, if 1 day in Tokyo is all you have then make the most of it! If you like to explore on your own, we suggest using just one-day from our above Tokyo 3-day tour. If the prospect of figuring out the details is too tasking, we recommend hiring a guide or joining a group for your Tokyo one-day trip.
Tokyo Itinerary 2 Days
With 2 Days in Tokyo, visitors can experience quite a bit of the city! We recommend following our detailed outline for any of the two days as outlined in our Tokyo 3-Day trip. Those interested in adding a cultural experience, could squeeze a Geisha experience or Sumo wrestling practice into their Tokyo two-day itinerary, too.
4 Day Tokyo Itinerary
To create a 4 days in Tokyo itinerary, use our outlined 3-day Tokyo itinerary as a base. Then spend the last day exploring one of the cool districts that we couldn’t fit in. We think a perfect Tokyo 4 days itinerary would be to spend the last day in Akihabara. Peruse electronic stores, play video games and try your luck at pachinko!
Tokyo Itinerary 5 Days
With 5 days in Tokyo visitors have enough time to explore the city and take a 1-day trip from Tokyo (or participate in a cultural tour). We recommend following the above outline of four days in Tokyo and then choose one of the day trips listed above – like Mt Fuji. Alternatively, stay in the city and participate in a Geisha experience.
6 Day Tokyo Itinerary
With 6 days in Tokyo, we recommend following our above advice on what to do in Tokyo in 5 days and then immerse yourself in the Japanese culture on day 6. To create a one-day tour in Tokyo that focuses solely on culture; join a food tour, visit obscure temples, dress in a kimono or learn to be a Samurai Warrior.
Tokyo Itinerary 7 Days
Planning a Tokyo 1-week itinerary allows visitors ample opportunity to explore and really get acquainted with the city! With 7 days in Tokyo we recommend following our outline above for 6 days then either go on a shopping spree in Ginza or revisit your favorite neighborhood.
Don’t forget to check out our complete 14 Day Japan Itinerary!
How To Get to Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo can be reached by plane, train, bus or car. There are two international Tokyo airports: Haneda Airport (HND) and Narita Airport (NRT). Haneda is much closer to the city, but both airports are well-connected to Tokyo with public transport.
We always start our search with Skyscanner to find the best flight deals.
Trains and buses arriving at Tokyo terminate in various stations around the city. Before choosing a train or bus route, determine how well the arrival station is connected to your Tokyo accommodations.
Getting Around Tokyo
Tokyo is well-connected by a network of trains, subways and buses. They are managed by multiple companies, but fares can be paid using a pre-paid IC card. Visitors can buy Suica and Pasmo pre-paid IC cards in Tokyo stations.
Tokyo Visitor Transportation Passes
Multiday passes that are valid for unlimited transport on limited networks are also available for purchase. The downside is that none of the multiday cards cover all modes of transport.
For example, visitors can buy a Tokyo 3-Day Pass for the subway, which is valid for unlimited use on all Toei and Tokyo Metro subway lines, but it won’t be valid on JR trains. The 3-day Tokyo pass can save money, but only if subways are going to be your sole mode of transport.
Where To Stay in Tokyo, Japan
We were International Housesitters during our first visit to Tokyo, however there are numerous options for Tokyo accommodations. Apartments, hotels, hostels and capsule hotels are available in a range of prices. We have since stayed in multiple Tokyo hotels in various locations around the city.
Tokyo Hotels
Although we usually prefer staying in Airbnb apartments, we opted for basic accommodations in Tokyo, rather than splurging on luxury stays, like the Keio Plaza Hotel. It is important to note that in most hotels in Tokyo the rooms are small and compact. It is not uncommon to have shared bathrooms, so double check and read our Top Hotel Tips before booking!
Asakusa Hotel
In Asakusa, we stayed in Hotel MyStays. Located near the sights, but tucked into a neighborhood, the rooms are small but well-equipped, including a small fridge and hotplate. Robes and umbrellas are provided for guest use – and there is a selection of toiletries available in the lobby.
Roppongi Hotel
During our time in Roppongi, we booked the Sotetsu Fresa Inn. The hotel is located just steps from the Roppongi Station and is convenient for sightseeing the area on foot. The rooms and bathrooms are also spacious. Amenities include slippers, robes and an assortment of toiletries. For a fee, a breakfast buffet is available in the adjoining ground floor restaurant.
Narita Airport Hotel
Due to an early flight, we spent our last night in Tokyo near the Narita Airport at the APA Hotel Keisei Narita Ekaime. We chose the APA Hotel because it was located right outside the Keisei Narita Train Station and provided a free shuttle to the airport. The tiny rooms are equipped with an electric kettle, fridge, slippers and toiletries.
Tokyo Itinerary Packing Tips
We have outlined what to do in Tokyo for 3 days, but still have some advice about what to pack! You can also review our complete list plus read about our other packing hacks before your trip.
Walking Shoes for Tokyo
Our 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary includes a lot of walking! Don’t forget to pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable shoes for your trip. I (Sarah) have traveled with these shoes by Columbia. Kris prefers wearing these by Merrell. Find more in our reviews on The Best Travel Shoes.
Travel Camera
Tokyo is a city that begs to be photographed! If you are anything like us, you will be snapping tons of photos during your trip to Japan. Rather than relying on your phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for high quality photos. We shoot with a Canon Rebel and a 18-135mm lens that is perfect for cityscapes and an all around excellent budget travel camera.
Travel Insurance
Trip insurance may reimburse for expenses related to illness, cancelled flights or lost luggage. If you haven’t already obtained coverage for your trip to Japan, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Japan! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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