City Guide
Tokyo
Tokyo is a mesmerizing blend of neon-lit futuristic skyscrapers and serene historic temples, offering an unparalleled urban experience. The best time to visit is during the cherry blossom season in late March or the crisp, clear days of autumn in November.
Top Things to Do in Tokyo
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Getting Around Tokyo
From the Airport
Train. From Narita Airport, take the Narita Express (N'EX) to reach central Tokyo in about 60-90 minutes for approximately 3,000 yen. Train. From Haneda Airport, the Keikyu Line provides a fast 20-minute connection to Shinagawa Station for less than 500 yen. Bus. The Airport Limousine Bus offers direct service to major hotels throughout the city, which is convenient if you have heavy luggage.
Once You're There
Metro. Tokyo has one of the world's most extensive subway systems, operated mainly by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway; use a Suica or Pasmo card for easy tapping. Walking. Central districts like Shibuya, Harajuku, and Ginza are extremely walkable, though you will likely clock many miles each day. Rideshare. While Uber exists in Tokyo, it primarily dispatches local taxis; for standard taxi hailing, the GO app is the most popular choice.
Where to Stay in Tokyo
Hotel picks for Tokyo are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Tokyo
Narisawa★ 4.6 (714)Japan, 〒107-0062 Tokyo, Minato City, Minamiaoyama, 2-chōme−6−１５ 南青山ガーデンコートA world-class destination for innovative 'Satoyama' cuisine that celebrates the natural, seasonal bounty of the Japanese landscape.
Ichiran Shibuya★ 4.4 (5,230)Japan, 〒150-0041 Tokyo, Shibuya, Jinnan, 1-chōme−22−７ 岩本ビル B1FFamous for its solo dining booths and rich, customizable tonkotsu ramen, it is a quintessential Tokyo comfort food stop.
Tonkatsu Maisen Aoyama★ 4.4 (5,174)4-chōme-8-5 Jingūmae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001, JapanHoused in a former bathhouse, this restaurant serves arguably the most tender, golden-fried pork cutlets in the city.
Tempura Kondo★ 4.4 (976)Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 5-chōme−5−１３ Sakaguchi Bld., ９FA high-end tempura destination where the master chef elevates humble vegetables into sophisticated, crispy works of art.
Kyubey★ 4.4 (326)2-chōme-2-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-8330, JapanA legendary sushi institution where you can witness master chefs prepare seasonal nigiri with surgical precision.
Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu★ 4.3 (8,366)1-chōme-13-11 Nishiazabu, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0031, JapanKnown as the inspiration for the famous fight scene in Kill Bill, this bustling izakaya offers a vibrant atmosphere and classic skewers.
Fuunji★ 4.3 (5,692)Japan, 〒151-0053 Tokyo, Shibuya, Yoyogi, 2-chōme−14−３ 北斗第一ビル １FThis Shinjuku staple is famous for its intense, umami-packed tsukemen dipping noodles that keep locals coming back for more.
Kagari Ginza★ 4.2 (4,691)6-chōme-4-12 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, JapanThis hidden gem is celebrated for its incredibly creamy, rich chicken-based tori paitan ramen that draws long queues daily.
Tsunahachi★ 4.1 (438)Japan, 〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 3-chōme−6−１ 松屋銀座 8FSpecializing in Edomae-style tempura since 1924, this spot serves perfectly light and crispy seasonal vegetables and seafood.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Tokyo
Old Tokyo & River Views
Morning. Start your Tokyo adventure in Asakusa, the heart of the city's traditional shitamachi district. Arrive early at the Kaminarimon Gate to beat the crowds, then walk down the lively Nakamise-dori market street to pick up some freshly grilled senbei crackers. Spend your morning exploring the magnificent Senso-ji temple, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist site, and don't forget to draw an omikuji fortune. Once you've soaked in the incense-filled atmosphere, head toward the Sumida River for a scenic walk along the banks. It is the perfect way to transition from the historic past to the modern skyline.
Afternoon. After a morning of tradition, cross the river to reach the soaring Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan. Take the high-speed elevator to the Tembo Deck for a panoramic view that stretches all the way to Mount Fuji on a clear day. Afterward, explore the massive Solamachi shopping complex at the base of the tower for unique souvenirs and local sweets. Take a quick train ride to the nearby Ryogoku district to visit the Edo-Tokyo Museum if you want to dive deeper into the city's history. It is a fantastic way to contrast the ancient architecture of Asakusa with the sheer scale of contemporary engineering.
Evening. Wind down your evening by taking a water bus cruise down the Sumida River toward Odaiba for a stunning view of the illuminated city lights. Once you arrive at the Odaiba waterfront, marvel at the life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue that occasionally transforms with lights and movement. Grab a casual dinner at the Aqua City shopping mall, which offers prime views of the Rainbow Bridge glowing in the night. It is a futuristic end to a day that bridges the gap between old-world charm and modern spectacle. Before calling it a night, take a final walk along the beach park to enjoy the cool breeze.
Shibuya Energy & Shinjuku Neon
Morning. Begin your day in the bustling heart of Shibuya, where the famous Shibuya Crossing serves as the ultimate introduction to Tokyo's frantic energy. Snap a photo with the Hachiko Statue, then head up to the Shibuya Sky observation deck for an open-air view of the scramble from above. After taking in the sights, walk through the trendy boutiques of Shibuya 109 to see what the local youth are wearing. It is a high-octane start that perfectly captures the modern pulse of the city. Make sure to arrive early to secure your spot at the observation deck before the mid-day rush.
Afternoon. Head west to the peaceful oasis of Meiji Jingu, a Shinto shrine nestled within a massive forest right in the middle of the city. Walk the wide gravel paths under the towering torii gates to escape the urban noise for a few hours. Once you emerge, walk directly into the colorful chaos of Takeshita Street in Harajuku, where you can sample giant rainbow cotton candy and browse quirky fashion shops. Continue your stroll down Omotesando, often called Tokyo's Champs-Élysées, to admire the stunning modern architecture and high-end flagship stores. It is a masterclass in how Tokyo balances serene spirituality with relentless consumerism.
Evening. As the sun sets, head to Shinjuku to experience the city's most iconic nightlife and neon-drenched streets. Start by walking through Omoide Yokocho, a narrow alleyway packed with tiny yakitori stalls that feel like a time capsule from the post-war era. Afterward, explore the vertical maze of Kabukicho and look up at the famous Godzilla head peering over the Toho Cinema building. Finish your night with a drink in the miniature bars of Golden Gai, where each tiny establishment has its own unique theme and character. It is the ultimate Tokyo evening, defined by bright lights and hidden corners.
Imperial Grandeur & Tech Culture
Morning. Start your final day at the Imperial Palace East Garden, where you can walk through the historic ruins of the former Edo Castle. The massive stone walls and moats offer a glimpse into the power of the shogunate that once ruled Japan. After exploring the gardens, walk over to the nearby Tokyo Station to admire its beautifully restored red-brick facade. It is one of the most important transportation hubs in the country and a masterpiece of early 20th-century architecture. Spend some time in the basement 'Character Street' to find unique merchandise from your favorite Japanese animation studios.
Afternoon. Take the train to Akihabara, the world's epicenter for electronics, gaming, and anime culture. Spend your afternoon browsing the multi-story hobby shops like Radio Kaikan or Mandarake to find rare collectibles and retro video games. Even if you aren't a gamer, the sheer density of neon signs and maid cafes makes for an unforgettable sensory experience. If you need a break, duck into a local arcade like Taito Station to try your hand at some classic Japanese rhythm games. It is a colorful, loud, and undeniably fun district that represents the 'Electric Town' reputation of Tokyo.
Evening. Conclude your trip in the sophisticated district of Ginza, known for its elegant department stores and world-class dining. Walk down Chuo-dori to see the flagship Ginza Six building and the historic Wako clock tower illuminated against the night sky. Treat yourself to a final high-end dinner at one of the area's many Michelin-starred sushi counters to celebrate your time in the city. If you have time, stop by a high-end stationery store like Itoya to pick up some quality Japanese paper goods before you head home. It is a refined and memorable way to close out your three-day journey.
