Tokyo, Japan-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

  • Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda airport. Take the train (JR Central line) from either airport to Shinjuku Station.
  • Afternoon: Check-in at Hotel Gajoen Tokyo ( approx. ¥8,000 per night), a unique hotel with art and cultural exhibits on display throughout its grounds.
  • Evening: Head to the famous Shibuya Crossing for some shopping and street food. Try the local favorite, Shibuya 109.
    • Where to eat: Grab dinner at Nonbei Yokocho, a small alley filled with tiny bars and restaurants.
  • Things to know: Don’t forget to grab an IC card (Suica or Pasmo) for convenient travel on public transportation.

Day 2: Explore Tokyo’s Landmarks

  • Morning: Visit the iconic Tokyo Skytree (¥1,000 per person). Enjoy panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
  • Afternoon: Walk to the nearby Asakusa Kannon Temple, one of the oldest and most historic temples in Tokyo.
    • Where to eat: Try some delicious tempura at Tempura Tsunahachi (¥2,000 - ¥5,000 per person).
  • Evening: Explore the trendy Harajuku district and see the fashionable youth of Tokyo. Don’t miss the famous Takeshita Street.

Day 3: Discover Tokyo’s Hidden Gems

  • Morning: Visit the beautiful Hamarikyu Gardens, a former duck hunting ground for the Imperial family (¥300 per person).
  • Afternoon: Head to the trendy Daikanyama district, known for its boutiques and art galleries. Visit the nearby Ghibli Museum, dedicated to the works of Studio Ghibli’s founder Hayao Miyazaki (¥1,000 per person).
    • Where to eat: Try some delicious pasta at Pasta e Vino (¥2,000 - ¥5,000 per person).

Day 4: Experience Tokyo’s Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Meiji Shrine, a shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken (free admission).
  • Afternoon: Attend a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at Niten-do (¥500 - ¥1,000 per person).
    • Where to eat: Try some delicious yakitori at Torikiya (¥2,000 - ¥5,000 per person).

Day 5: Last Day in Tokyo

  • Morning: Visit the famous Tsukiji Outer Market, known for its fresh sushi and seafood. Try some delicious sushi at Sushi Dai (¥2,000 - ¥5,000 per person).
  • Afternoon: Head back to Shinjuku Station for your departure.
    • Where to eat: Grab lunch at Ishikawa Ramen, a popular ramen restaurant.

Transportation

  • Subway and train lines are convenient and efficient. Buy an IC card (Suica or Pasmo) for easy travel.
  • Take a taxi or ride-hailing service if you’re not familiar with the city.

Tips

  • Don’t forget to try some delicious street food!
  • Be prepared for crowds at popular tourist spots.
  • Learn some basic Japanese phrases, such as “konnichiwa” (hello), “arigatou” (thank you), and “sumimasen” (excuse me).
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Other Things to Know

  • Tokyo has a vibrant nightlife. Don’t miss the chance to experience it!
  • Try some delicious Japanese desserts, such as mochi or manju.
  • Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for panoramic views of the city (free admission).

I hope you enjoy your trip to Tokyo!