Tokyo 4 Day Itinerary

Here is a 4-day itinerary for traveling in Tokyo:

Day 1: Explore Tokyo’s Iconic Landmarks

Places to Go:

  • Shibuya Crossing: Experience the busiest and most famous intersection in the world. Be prepared to be swept up by a sea of people and try your luck at taking one of those iconic Shibuya Crossing photos.
  • Tokyo Tower: A symbol of Tokyo, offering breathtaking views of the city from its observation decks.
  • Imperial Palace East Garden: A beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a relaxing stroll. While the palace itself is not open to tourists, the gardens are.

Activities:

  • Shopping and Eating at Shibuya: Explore the famous Shibuya area, known for its shopping centers like 109 and Mark City.
  • Traditional Tea House Visit: Experience Japanese culture by visiting a traditional tea house.

Where to Eat:

  • Tsukiji Fish Market (outer market): Even though the inner market is closed, the outer market offers a great variety of fresh sushi restaurants and food stalls. Try Sushizanmai or Daiwa Sushi for a unique experience.
  • Yakitori Alley: Explore Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku for a nostalgic and delicious yakitori dining experience.

Where to Stay:

  • Shinjuku Gyoen Hotel: While not directly located in the gardens, this hotel offers an intimate and natural stay that’s just a short walk away.
  • Hotel Gajoen Tokyo: This unique hotel has traditional Japanese rooms and a beautiful garden.

Things to Know:

  • Language: While many signs are translated into English, carrying a translation guide or using Google Translate can help with any misunderstanding.
  • Cash Use: Some places might not accept credit cards, so have cash handy.
  • Weather: Pack accordingly; Tokyo can be very hot in the summer and chilly in winter.

Transportation:

  • Subway: The most efficient way to get around. Buy a prepaid IC card (like SUICA or PASMO) for easy travel.
  • Tokyo Metro Line: The subway line runs through central areas, making it easy to reach your destinations.
  • Toei Subway Line: Useful for traveling in different parts of the city.

Tips:

  • Respect Culture: Remember to respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or participating in cultural events.
  • Use a Suica/PASMO Card: It’s convenient and easy to use.
  • Wear Comfortable Shoes: Tokyo is very walkable; bring shoes you can comfortably walk in.

Day 2: Explore the Modern Side of Tokyo

Places to Go:

  • Akihabara Electronic Market: Tokyo’s electronic hub, offering everything from electronics to anime and manga.
  • Neon Districts (Shinjuku and Shibuya): Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo by visiting areas like Kabukicho in Shinjuku or Nonbei Yokocho in Shibuya.
  • Miraikan: A museum showcasing science and technology with interactive exhibits.

Activities:

  • Shopping at Laforet Shinjuku: Explore this shopping mall for a mix of high-end and affordable brands.
  • Visit the Robot Restaurant: For a unique, quirky experience.

Where to Eat:

  • Tsukiji Outer Market (morning): Experience the fresh sushi at Daiwa Sushi or Sushizanmai.
  • Shinjuku’s Omoide Yokocho: Try some traditional yakitori for dinner.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Gajoen Tokyo: For a unique, cultural experience.
  • Park Hotel Tokyo: Located near Shinbashi Station and the Tokyo Tower area.

Things to Know:

  • Crowds: Be prepared for large crowds in Akihabara.
  • Money: Have cash ready; some places might not take credit cards.
  • Time: Be aware of your time, especially when visiting places with specific schedules.

Transportation:

  • JR Yamanote Line: Useful for getting to the electronic districts and other areas.
  • Subway: The most convenient way to travel around Tokyo.

Tips:

  • Respect Local Customs: Especially in traditional or cultural settings.
  • Be Ready for Crowds: In places like Akihabara, be prepared for crowds at all times.
  • Use a Suica/PASMO Card: For easy travel around the city.

Day 3: Discover Nature and Parks

Places to Go:

  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Escape the urban life in this beautiful oasis offering gardens, forests, and meadows.
  • Imperial Palace East Garden: A tranquil area for a relaxing stroll.
  • Sumida River Park: Offers a peaceful view of Tokyo’s skyline.

Activities:

  • Hiking in Shinjuku Gyoen: Take advantage of the hiking trails available.
  • Visit the Imperial Palace East Garden: Enjoy the garden while visiting the palace area.

Where to Eat:

  • Yakitori Alley (Shinjuku): Try some traditional yakitori at Omoide Yokocho.
  • Traditional Tea House: Experience Japanese culture by visiting a tea house.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Gajoen Tokyo: Offers traditional rooms and cultural experiences.
  • Park Hotel Tokyo: Located near the Shinbashi area, with easy access to Tokyo Tower.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Pack accordingly; Tokyo can be hot in summer and chilly in winter.
  • Cash Use: Some places might not accept credit cards.
  • Language: Carry a translation guide or use Google Translate for any misunderstandings.

Transportation:

  • Subway: The most efficient way to get around.
  • JR Yamanote Line: Useful for reaching the national gardens and other areas.

Tips:

  • Respect Culture: Especially in traditional settings.
  • Use a Suica/PASMO Card: For easy travel.
  • Wear Comfortable Shoes: Tokyo is very walkable, so bring comfortable shoes.

Day 4: Visit Cultural and Historical Sites

Places to Go:

  • Meiji Shrine: Dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken.
  • Nezu Museum: Showcasing Japanese art from the Edo period to the modern era.
  • Mori Tower: Offers panoramic views of Tokyo.

Activities:

  • Visit the Nezu Museum: For a cultural experience with a mix of old and new Japan.
  • Walk around Yebisu Garden Place: A beautiful area with gardens, a museum, and more.

Where to Eat:

  • Traditional Tea House: Experience Japanese culture by visiting a traditional tea house.
  • Shinjuku’s Omoide Yokocho: Try some traditional yakitori for dinner.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Gajoen Tokyo: Offers unique rooms and cultural experiences.
  • Park Hotel Tokyo: Conveniently located near the Shinbashi area.

Things to Know:

  • Respect Local Customs: Especially in cultural settings.
  • Cash Use: Some places might not accept credit cards.
  • Language: Carry a translation guide or use Google Translate for any misunderstandings.

Transportation:

  • Subway: The most convenient way to travel around Tokyo.
  • JR Yamanote Line: Useful for reaching the cultural and historical sites.

Tips:

  • Respect Culture: Especially in traditional settings.
  • Use a Suica/PASMO Card: For easy travel.
  • Wear Comfortable Shoes: Tokyo is very walkable, so bring comfortable shoes.