Tokyo, Japan-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Shinjuku

  • Arrive at Narita or Haneda airport
  • Take the train or bus to your hotel in Shinjuku ( approx. 1-2 hours)
  • Stay: Hotel Gajoen Tokyo (4-star) or similar
  • Places to go:
    • Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a free observation deck with great city views
    • Explore the nearby Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a beautiful park with gardens and walking trails (500 yen entry)
  • Food: Try some yakitori at Torikiya or grab a sushi set lunch at Sushi Saito
  • Things to know:
    • Cash is king in Japan; many places don’t accept credit cards
    • Learn some basic Japanese phrases, such as “konnichiwa” (hello) and “arigatou” (thank you)
  • Transportation: Take the JR Yamanote line from Shinjuku Station to Shibuya or Shinagawa for easy access to other areas

Day 2: Asakusa and Ueno

  • Places to go:
    • Visit Senso-ji Temple, a colorful Buddhist temple with a giant lantern
    • Explore the nearby Nakamise Shopping Street, a traditional shopping street filled with snacks and souvenirs (free entry)
    • Visit the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park (free entry)
  • Food: Try some tempura at Tempura Tsunahachi or grab a crepe at Cafe des Artistes
  • Things to know:
    • Don’t tip; tipping is not customary in Japan
    • Respect for elders is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture
  • Transportation: Take the JR Yamanote line from Asakusa Station to Ueno Station or take a short taxi ride

Day 3: Shibuya and Harajuku

  • Places to go:
    • Visit the famous Shibuya Crossing and take a walk around the trendy Shibuya area
    • Explore the fashionable streets of Harajuku, including Takeshita-dori (free entry)
    • Visit Meiji Shrine, a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife (free entry)
  • Food: Try some crepes at Marion Crepes or grab a snack at Kawaii Monster Cafe
  • Things to know:
    • Be aware of your belongings in crowded areas; pickpocketing can occur
    • Learn some basic Japanese numbers, such as “ichi” (one) and “ni” (two)
  • Transportation: Take the JR Yamanote line from Shibuya Station to Shinjuku Station

Day 4: Akihabara

  • Places to go:
    • Visit the electronic and anime hub of Akihabara, including Mandarake and Radio Kaikan (free entry)
    • Explore the nearby Yodobashi Camera, a giant electronics store
    • Try some retro games at SEGA Game Center or play some VR experiences
  • Food: Grab a snack at Maid Cafe or try some crepes at Animate Cafe
  • Things to know:
    • Don’t be surprised if you see cosplayers; Akihabara is famous for its anime and manga culture
    • Learn some basic Japanese phrases related to technology, such as “PC” (kūru) and “game” (gēmu)
  • Transportation: Take the JR Yamanote line from Akihabara Station to Shinjuku Station

Day 5: Odaiba

  • Places to go:
    • Visit the Miraikan science museum, featuring interactive exhibits and a robot restaurant
    • Explore the Palette Town area, including Venus Fort (free entry)
    • Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade
  • Food: Try some seafood at Sushi Restaurant or grab a snack at Tokyo Bay Cafe
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for crowds and lines; Odaiba is a popular tourist destination
    • Don’t miss the stunning views of the city skyline from the top floor of Palette Town’s Ferris wheel (Ticket prices vary)
  • Transportation: Take the JR Yamanote line from Shinjuku Station to Tokyo Station, then transfer to the Rinkai Line or take a short taxi ride

Day 6: Departure

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or visiting any final attractions
  • Food: Try some breakfast at Tsukiji Fish Market’s Daiwa Sushi or grab a snack at Nakamise Shopping Street
  • Things to know:
    • Don’t forget to pack your bags and check out of your hotel on time
    • Be prepared for traffic and crowds during your departure from Tokyo
  • Transportation: Take the train or bus back to Narita or Haneda airport ( approx. 1-2 hours)