Tokyo is a vast and bustling city, with something to offer everyone. From ancient temples to futuristic skyscrapers, from traditional Japanese cuisine to international fare, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, you may be wondering where to start. Here’s a 3-day itinerary that includes some of the most popular places to visit, as well as stops that include a skyline view, a museum, and a historical landmark:
Day 1
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Sensoji Temple, one of Tokyo’s oldest and most popular temples. This historic temple is located in the Asakusa district, and it’s a great place to learn about Japanese culture and Buddhism. After visiting the temple, be sure to wander through the Nakamise Shopping Street, which is lined with stalls selling traditional Japanese souvenirs and snacks.
- Afternoon: For lunch, head to one of the many restaurants in the Asakusa district. Then, take a short train ride to Sumida Park, where you’ll find the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in Japan. From the observation deck, you’ll have stunning views of the city skyline.
- Evening: For dinner, head to Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale shopping district. Here, you’ll find everything from high-end restaurants and boutiques to department stores and art galleries. After dinner, be sure to take a walk down Chuo Dori, a pedestrian street lined with neon lights and street performers.
Day 2
- Morning: If you’re a fan of Japanese animation, you won’t want to miss the Ghibli Museum. This museum is dedicated to the work of Studio Ghibli, the Japanese animation studio that created films like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro. Tickets to the museum sell out quickly, so be sure to book yours in advance.
- Afternoon: After lunch, take a train ride to the Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken. The shrine is located in a beautiful forest, and it’s a popular spot for locals to come and pray.
- Evening: For dinner, head to Shibuya, Tokyo’s popular entertainment district. Here, you’ll find everything from trendy restaurants and bars to karaoke clubs and nightclubs. After dinner, be sure to visit the famous Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing.
Day 3
- Morning: The Imperial Palace is the main residence of the Emperor of Japan. It’s located in the heart of Tokyo, and it’s surrounded by beautiful gardens and moats. The Imperial Palace is open to the public on certain days of the year, so be sure to check the website in advance to see if you can visit during your trip.
- Afternoon: For lunch, head to one of the many restaurants in the Ginza district. Then, take a walk through the Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku, a shopping mall that features a variety of unique and trendy stores.
- Evening: For dinner, head to Roppongi, Tokyo’s nightlife district. Here, you’ll find everything from traditional Japanese restaurants to izakayas (Japanese pubs) to international restaurants. After dinner, be sure to visit one of the many bars or clubs in Roppongi.
This is just a suggested itinerary, and you can customize it to fit your interests and budget. For example, if you’re not interested in visiting the Ghibli Museum, you could spend the morning of Day 2 visiting another museum, such as the Tokyo National Museum or the Mori Art Museum. Or, if you’re on a tight budget, you could eat at more affordable restaurants and skip the nightclubs in Roppongi.
No matter what you choose to do, you’re sure to have a great time in Tokyo. It’s a vibrant and exciting city with something to offer everyone.
Tips for planning your trip
Here are a few tips for planning your trip to Tokyo:
- Book your flights and accommodation in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
- Get a Japan Rail Pass if you’re planning on doing a lot of traveling by train.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases. This will come in handy when interacting with locals and ordering food.
- Be prepared for crowds, especially in popular tourist areas.
- Don’t forget to pack your camera! Tokyo is a visually stunning city, and you’ll want to capture all the memories.
Budget tips
Here are a few budget tips for your trip to Tokyo:
- Eat at affordable restaurants. There are many great