If you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time, this guide has everything you need to plan the perfect stay and feel less overwhelmed. We’re answering all your questions about Tokyo and sharing helpful insider tips!
Tokyo is easily one of our favorite cities in the world. We’ve been multiple times and still have a never-ending list of things we want to do on our next visit (yes, there will always be a next visit!).
Traveling to Tokyo for the first time can be overwhelming. We know from firsthand experience.
But we’re here to help! We’re sharing all sorts of insider tips, things we wish we would have known, and answering your most pressing questions, like:
What’s the best neighborhood in Tokyo to stay in? We’ve got some strong opinions.
What time do the subways stop running at night? Trust me, you’re going to want to know the answer to this one!
What foods should I not miss? Oh, honey, we’ve got a lot of ideas for you!
Okay, let’s dive right in and get you ready for your first trip to Tokyo!
Tokyo Travel Guide
If you already know what you’re looking for, click the link to jump down to that section, otherwise just keep scrolling to read it all!
- How many days do you need?
- Best time to visit
- Top things to do in Tokyo
- Getting around Tokyo
- Tips for visiting Tokyo
- Where to eat
- Where to stay
- What to pack
- Tokyo & Japan travel resources
Want to save time and energy on planning?
We’ve spent hundreds of hours (no joke!) researching for our 3 different trips to Japan, and we’ve been able to explore a lot of what this country has to offer!
We’ve compiled our experience to create a classic Japan itinerary that hits the top destinations for first-time visitors. Our itinerary is spread out over 2 weeks and includes the highlights of Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Osaka, Kyoto and more!
We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your classic Japan itinerary today!
How many days do you need in Tokyo?
The number of days you need in Tokyo depends on your travel preferences, interests, and the pace at which you like to explore.
If you’re more interested in exploring Japan’s diverse nature outside of the city, you may find that 3 days in Tokyo is enough to get your palette wet. However, for a well-rounded experience of Tokyo, we’d suggest spending 5 to 7 days in the city.
Here are some general guidelines:
- 3-4 days: Get a taste exploring Tokyo’s iconic neighborhoods like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Asakusa. Visit historic sites like Senso-ji Temple, Meiji Shrine, and the Imperial Palace. And dive into Tokyo’s shopping districts and entertainment hubs.
- 5-7 days: More time for exploring the city. Spend the first few days exploring classic sights and then dedicate a few days to exploring lesser visited spots and hidden gems. Check out our perfect 5 day Tokyo itinerary for details!
- 1 week or more: If you have specific interests like anime, technology, or traditional arts, you might want to allocate additional time to explore districts like Akihabara, Odaiba, or attend cultural experiences. Allocate 1 to 2 days for day trips to nearby destinations such as Nikko, Hakone (and Mount Fuji!), or Yokohama, each offering unique experiences.
Are you on the fence about purchasing our Classic 2-Week Japan Itinerary and curious what you’ll get? We’re offering you the chance to get a sneak peak of our PAID itinerary by downloading Day 1 in Tokyo, totally FREE!
Best time to visit Tokyo
Tokyo is really one of those destinations you can visit year-round and you’ll have a good experience no matter what season.
That being said, there are some things to consider when planning your trip to Tokyo. We go into detail in our best time to visit Tokyo guide, but here’s the gist:
The spring and summer time are considered peak tourism season in Japan. The cherry blossom festival is celebrated throughout the country during springtime and you’ll have to book your accommodation further in advance to guarantee a place to stay.
Summer in Tokyo gets hot. Like really hot. And with the summer heat comes humidity, which isn’t always ideal, depending on what kinds of activities you plan to do in Tokyo.
Our recommended time to visit Tokyo would be in the fall, when the leaves are turning and the heat and humidity let up a bit.
Winter is also a special time to visit Japan and there are plenty of benefits to visiting Tokyo during low season.
The ideal time to visit largely depends on your interests, preferences, and itinerary. We have a full breakdown of each season, plus pros and cons in our guide to the best time to visit Japan.
Things to do in Tokyo
If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Tokyo, here are our top recommendations:
- Walk through Shibuya Crossing
- Eat your way around Tokyo on a food tour
- Explore TeamLAB Borderless
- Catch a Sumo wrestling match
- Take a free walking tour
- Go on a dinner cruise
We have an entire article dedicated to the top things to do in Tokyo where we share details and tips for first-time visitors.
And if you’re interested, be sure to check out our guide to Tokyo at night, where we share all the best things to do after the sun goes down in the neon lights capital.
Getting around Tokyo
The trains and metros in Japan are some of the cleanest and most efficient in the world, and the rail system covers almost the entire country making it a very efficient way to get around. However, transportation is one of the biggest expenses to factor into your Japan travel budget.
There are two major companies that operate the subway system in Tokyo: Toei and Tokyo Metro. The Tokyo Metro has 9 different subway lines, where the Toei only has 4 lines. You can get to all the major spots on the Tokyo Metro lines.
Good to know: You can get refunded for any money remaining on your card that you have not spent (as well as the required 500 yen deposit). You can find refund counters at major train stations, or you can spend this money at 7-Eleven and other convenience stores.
If you plan on doing quite a bit of exploring in a day, another cost-effective option is to purchase the Tokyo Metro 1-Day Pass. The 1-day pass only costs 600 yen ($5.34 USD) and you can purchase it at any ticket vending machine.
You should only get the Toei 24-hour pass if you’re hotel is only by a Toei station. For 700 yen, you get access to Toei subways and buses.
Tokyo Metro
The Tokyo metro system is pretty incredible and trains come very frequently. It makes it easy to explore all parts of the city no matter where you are staying.
However, it can be overwhelming to navigate on your first visit. Here are a few tips and things to know:
- If you plug in locations to Google Maps, the app will tell you very detailed instructions, including which train line to take, the correct exit, and even which car of the train.
- Pay attention to which exit you’re taking out of the subway. If you take the wrong one, you may end up very far from your intended destination. Refer to Google Maps to find the correct exit.
- Get a virtual Pasmo or Suica card and load the money directly onto your phone. This way, you just have to tap your phone to be let into the subway and you won’t have to purchase tickets each time or use cash.
- Even though the metro system connects the city well, getting from one side of Tokyo to the other can take a long time. For this reason, we recommend being efficient when you plan your Tokyo itinerary and breaking down your days by neighborhood so you’re not trekking back and forth across the city.
- The trains get very full during rush hours in the morning and evening. Be prepared for cars that are packed like sardines.
- People are very quiet on the trains. I’ve never been around so many people with so little noise. Try your best to be quiet.
- Most subways in Tokyo stop running by midnight. If you’re planning to go out, be sure you have a plan, as most don’t start up again until around 5am.
Insider Tip: The Tokyo metro system can look quite confusing at first glance. Just take a look at that spaghetti-like map above! But if you download the app, Japan Travel by Navitime, you will be saved a HUGE headache. It is literally a lifesaver for navigating all transportation in Japan.
The Greater Tokyo Pass
An alternative would be to purchase the Greater Tokyo Pass, a 3- or 5-day pass that grants purchasers unlimited rides on railways, trams and ordinary fixed-route buses around the Tokyo metro area and surrounding suburbs.
The cost of the 5-day pass is 7,200 yen (~$53 USD) for adults, or 6,000 yen (~$44 USD) for the 3-day pass.
You can do your own research into the valid lines included on the pass to see if purchasing one will save you money depending on which things to do in Tokyo you want to cover on your trip.
What about the Japan Rail Pass?
Does it make sense to purchase the JR Pass for your visit to Tokyo?
Here’s the simple answer to your question:
- If you are staying only in Tokyo: NO
- If you will be traveling to at least 2 more places in Japan: YES
Read more about how much money the Japan Rail pass will save you and find out how to get it. We have a whole guide and are happy to answer any questions you may have.
Tips for visiting Tokyo
Here are our top tips for visiting Tokyo, Japan to make the most out of your stay.
- Master public transportation. Tokyo has an efficient and extensive public transportation system, including trains and buses. If you can master this system, getting around Tokyo will be easy!
- Respect local customs and etiquette. Japanese culture places a high value on manners and etiquette. It’s a good idea to read up on some Japanese manners before your trip so you don’t embarrass yourself or offend someone.
- Learn some key phrases, but don’t worry too much about the language barrier. It is always respectful and recommended that you learn a few helpful words or phrases in the country you’re visiting, but we want to point out that it is possible to have a fantastic trip to Japan without having mastered the language.
- Explore Tokyo’s many districts. Tokyo is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its unique character. Explore the bustling Shibuya and Shinjuku for modern vibes, the trendy Harajuku for youth culture, and the historic Asakusa for traditional charm.
- If you’re a tech or anime enthusiast, districts like Akihabara are a must-visit to immerse yourself in the latest gadgets, anime, and manga culture.
- Dive into Tokyo’s food scene by trying local specialties like sushi, ramen, tempura, and izakaya-style dining. Don’t hesitate to explore smaller eateries for an authentic culinary experience.
- Plan for day trips. Tokyo serves as a great hub for day trips. Consider exploring nearby destinations like Nikko, Hakone (and Mount Fuji!), or Yokohama for diverse experiences.
- Stay connected. We have a complete guide to renting a pocket Wi-Fi or getting a SIM card—both of which are practical ways to stay connected during your trip. Having internet access is valuable for navigation and translation while in Tokyo.
- Download these apps before your trip.
Where to eat in Tokyo
Before we get into it, we want to warn you… Coming up with restaurant recommendations for Tokyo is hard to do. This city is absolutely massive, there are amazing restaurants all over the place and new restaurants keep opening up all the time.
Tokyo truly is a foodie city and you can easily find incredible food just walking down the street and popping into somewhere local.
But if you want some recommendations, below is a list of places we’ve personally eaten at and loved. It also includes some well-known hot spots most people include in their Tokyo itinerary.
Our top recommendation is to plan out where you want to spend your days in Tokyo first, and then you can plan out where you want to eat based on where you’ll be. In other words, choose restaurants that are in the neighborhood you’re already exploring to cut down on time spent on transportation.
Other things to know about eating in Tokyo
- Many restaurants in Japan don’t open until 10 to 11 a.m. If you are a big breakfast or coffee person, you will need to plan ahead a bit if your hotel doesn’t offer breakfast.
- Tip: Matsuya is a popular Japanese fast food chain that is open early in the morning (popular with locals)
- Many restaurants in Tokyo require reservations. Book early if you have places you really want to go to.
- Popular restaurants that don’t offer reservations often have long waits especially during peak mealtimes. Factor this into your day.
- Some izakayas and bars have a “seat charge”, called otoshi. This can range from ¥300-1,000, and sometimes includes a small “complementary” dish.
- Some restaurants (ramen shops in particular) will have a machine where you order and pay on.
Tokyo Station
- Nihonbashi Kaisen Donburi Tsujihan Nihonbashi: Famous for seafood bowls, expect a long line
- Insider Tip: If you don’t have time, you can get takeaway (we did, and ate it on the rooftop of nearby Tokyo Station). There are signs that say you can skip the line if you want takeaway. Go inside, place your order and it will be ready in about 5 minutes.
- IPPUKU&MATCHA 日本橋店: a great place to try matcha tea and sweets. There’s a cafe you can walk into as well as a secret tea room which you need to reserve [make a reservation]
- Yakitori Ton Ton: We loved this izakaya packed with locals under the railroad
Akihabara Station
- Jiromaru Akihabara: our favorite yakiniku (grilled meat) restaurant; tiny, standing room only
- Our recommendation: get the sampler & grill it yourself
Shibuya
- Vegan Bistro Jangara: amazing vegan ramen even meat eaters will love in Harajuku
- Gyukatsu Motomura: incredible tonkatsu restaurant where you cook the meat yourself, expect to wait 1 hour (the link is the Harajuku location but they have more locations in Akihabara and Asakusa)
- Gonpachi: large venue designed to look like historic Japanese architecture, serving traditional Japanese dishes makes a great pick for the start of your trip [make a reservation]
- oh my DOT: Unique concept where you make your own ramen. A quick and cheap meal in Shibuya.
- Uobei: reasonably-priced conveyor belt sushi in Shibuya
Tokyo Midtown
- GYOPAO Gyoza Roppongi: lively Japanese-Taiwanese fusion izakaya known for their signature soup dumplings. [make a reservation]
- Iruca Tokyo Roppongi: If you don’t mind waiting in line, this Michelin rated ramen shop is known for soy sauce ramen that features truffles.
- 毚 -zan- Bar Roppongi: Cocktail bar with Western-Japanese fusion bites and a good place to try Japanese whiskey [make a reservation]
- Try the wagyu cutlet sandwich
Shinjuku
- Uogashi Nihon-Ichi: standing sushi bar
- Kani Douraku: crab restaurant
- Nikuya no Daidokoro: all you can eat meat (make reservations)
- Kumachan Onsen: Teddy bear hot pot — definitely a photo spot with less focus on food (make reservations)
Other
- Ichiran: famous ramen chain with locations all over the city
- Ichiran Ramen Shinjuku
- Ichiran Shibuya
- Ichiran Asakusa
- CoCo Ichibanya: Japanese curry chain all over the city and country
- Matsuya: Popular spot for locals to get Japanese-style breakfast with locations all over the city. They have a set menu with reasonable prices.
Dining experiences in Tokyo
- Check out the Izakayas in Omoide Yokocho
- Head to the Tsukiji fish market
- Maguroya Kurogin stand famous for tuna belly
- Go for street food in Asakusa
- Another casual and quick option is to head up to Tokyo Station. Go to the underground inside the station for a ton of restaurants to choose from. There are lots of great ramen shops, gyoza, and more!
Where to stay in Tokyo
In short, if it is your first time visiting Tokyo, Shibuya and Shinjuku are the most popular choices. Both are near many big attractions, making them super convenient areas to base yourself. Plus, there are lots of hotels to choose from.
That said, the hotels in Shibuya and Shinjuku tend to be quite expensive and very small.
If you are traveling with kids or on a tighter budget, we recommend looking into Akasaka (budget-friendly and larger rooms), as well as Asakusa for more options.
If you want more details and hotel recommendations, we have an entire guide to the best neighborhoods to stay in Tokyo, including insider tips and things to do in each.
What to pack for traveling to Tokyo
We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating these super helpful guides full of packing hacks and tips for traveling in Japan that you won’t find anywhere else:
- Our Japan packing guide lists all the essentials (many of which you might not think about), as well as what you should NOT pack for a trip to Japan.
- This article on what to wear in Japan will help you create a perfect capsule wardrobe for every season and let you in on some cultural taboos so you can be sure to dress appropriately.
- With this FREE Japan packing list PDF download, we’ll send checklists straight to your inbox for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to what shoes to pack and extra stuff you may want to have on-hand just in case. Click the image below to get your free copy!
Tokyo travel resources
Check out these other helpful articles when planning your trip to Tokyo…
- 5 Day Tokyo Itinerary: Iconic Sights + Hidden Gems!
- Best Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan
- Tokyo at Night: Wild Things to Do After Dark
- Where to Stay in Tokyo: Neighborhood Guide + Best Hotels
- Best Time to Visit Tokyo: When to Go & When to Avoid!
- teamLab Borderless: How to Visit Tokyo’s Digital Art Museum
- Tokyo Dinner Cruise Review: Best Foodie Experience in Tokyo?
- Best Day Trips from Tokyo, Japan
- Mount Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo: How to Get There + Tips!
More resources for traveling in Japan
We have TONS of resources on travel in Japan and destinations throughout the country. Check out our Ultimate Japan Travel Guide for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below!
- Japan Trip Planner: How to Plan Your First Trip to Japan
- Japan Rail Pass: Where to Buy & Is It Worthwhile?
- Helpful Japanese Words & Phrases (to know before traveling!)
- Japanese Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts
- Expert Tips for Visiting Japan
- What to Wear in Japan (+ What NOT to Wear!)
- Japan Packing List: 50+ Things You Can’t Forget (+ FREE checklist!)
- Japan Travel Cost: Exactly How Much is a Trip to Japan?
- Foods to Eat in Japan: Guide to Japanese Cuisine
Want the perfect itinerary planned for you?
If you don’t have a ton of time to spend planning your Japan itinerary (or you just don’t find travel planning fun), we’ve got something you might be interested in…
We created the ultimate done-for-you Japan itineraries that are packed full of all sorts of tips we’ve gathered from 3 trips to Japan as well as literally hundreds of hours of research (no exaggeration).
We will have both off-the-beaten path routes as well as a classic itinerary that hits the top attractions (perfect for your first visit to Japan!).
Click above and we’ll send you our complete 2-week classic Japan itinerary, filled with tips and advice, including the highlights of Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Osaka, Kyoto and more!
If you want to be the first to know when our Hidden Gems itinerary is on sale, get on the waitlist!
Save this article on Pinterest for later!
We want to hear from you!
Are you planning a trip for your first time in Tokyo and still have questions? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to find you the answers you’re looking for!