Tokyo, Japan-5-day-itinerary

Tokyo 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Shinjuku

  • Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda airport and take a train or bus to your hotel. Check-in to your hotel and freshen up.
  • Lunch: Head to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden for a peaceful lunch surrounded by nature. Try some Japanese sandwiches (¥500-¥1,000) at the garden’s café.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a free observation deck with great city views.
  • Evening: Explore Shinjuku’s Golden Gai, a small alley filled with tiny bars and yakitori restaurants. Try some grilled chicken skewers (¥500-¥1,000) at Toriki.
  • Accommodation: Stay at Nui.Tokyo Central Hostel (dorm ¥3,500, private ¥6,000) or Hotel Gajoen Tokyo (¥15,000-¥30,000)

Day 2: Asakusa and Ueno

  • Morning: Visit Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, one of the oldest and most famous temples in Japan. Explore the nearby Nakamise shopping street.
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Japanese cuisine at Asakusa Kagetsudo (¥1,000-¥3,000).
  • Afternoon: Head to Ueno Park and visit the Tokyo National Museum (¥620) or take a stroll around the beautiful Shinobazu Pond.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at Yakiniku Jumbo Han no Daidokoro Bettei (¥5,000-¥10,000).
  • Transportation: Take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line from Asakusa to Ueno.

Day 3: Shibuya and Harajuku

  • Morning: Visit the famous Shibuya Crossing and take a walk around the trendy Shibuya area.
  • Lunch: Grab some delicious crepes at ** Marion Crepes** (¥500-¥1,000).
  • Afternoon: Explore Harajuku, known for its unique fashion styles and shopping. Visit Takeshita Street, a pedestrian shopping street lined with cafes and boutiques.
  • Evening: Enjoy a drink at Nonbei Yokocho, a small alley filled with tiny bars and cafes.
  • Transportation: Take the JR Yamanote Line from Shibuya to Harajuku.

Day 4: Akihabara and Imperial Palace

  • Morning: Visit Akihabara, Tokyo’s electronics and anime hub. Explore the various shops and arcades.
  • Lunch: Try some delicious ramen at Ichiran Shibuya (¥890-¥1,500).
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll around the beautiful Imperial Palace East Garden (free admission).
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at Happo-en Garden (¥2,000-¥5,000).
  • Transportation: Take the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line from Akihabara to Otemachi.

Day 5: Tsukiji and Odaiba

  • Morning: Visit the Tsukiji Outer Market for a sushi breakfast at one of the many restaurants (¥2,000-¥5,000).
  • Lunch: Try some fresh seafood at Sushi Dai or Sushi Daiwa (¥3,000-¥6,000).
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll around Odaiba, a man-made island with beautiful views of Tokyo Bay. Visit the Miraikan Science Museum (¥2,200) or take a ride on the Yurikamome elevated train.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Gonpachi Odaiba (¥3,000-¥6,000).
  • Transportation: Take the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line from Tsukiji to Shibuya.

Things to Know

  • Japan has a unique culture and etiquette. Learn about basic rules, such as bowing and gift-giving.
  • Cash is king in Japan. Many places don’t accept credit cards or have limited ATM access.
  • Download the Google Translate app to help with language barriers.
  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular tourist spots.

Tips

  • Buy a Suica or Pasmo card for easy travel on Tokyo’s public transportation system.
  • Learn some basic Japanese phrases, such as “konnichiwa” (hello) and “arigatou” (thank you).
  • Don’t tip at restaurants or bars. Tipping is not customary in Japan.
  • Be respectful of temples and shrines by dressing modestly and removing your shoes when required.

Budget Breakdown

  • Accommodation: ¥20,000-¥50,000 (avg. ¥4,000-¥10,000 per night)
  • Food: ¥15,000-¥30,000 (avg. ¥3,000-¥6,000 per meal)
  • Transportation: ¥2,000-¥5,000 (avg. ¥400-¥1,000 per ride)
  • Attractions and activities: ¥10,000-¥20,000 (avg. ¥2,000-¥4,000 per person)

Total estimated cost for 5-day trip: ¥67,000-¥150,000