Tokyo: 3, 5, & 7-Day Itineraries for Every Traveler

Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, is a vibrant fusion of traditional culture and futuristic innovation. From ancient temples and serene gardens to neon-lit districts and world-class dining, Tokyo offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Whether you’re visiting for a short stay or a week-long adventure, these tailored itineraries will guide you through the city’s most iconic sights, hidden gems, and unique experiences.

3-Day Itinerary: Tokyo Highlights

Day 1: Traditional Tokyo

Morning: Start your Tokyo adventure in the historic district of Asakusa, home to the iconic Senso-ji Temple. This ancient Buddhist temple, founded in 628 AD, is Tokyo’s oldest and most significant. Begin your visit by entering through the impressive Kaminarimon Gate, adorned with a massive red lantern. As you stroll down Nakamise Shopping Street, lined with traditional stalls selling snacks like taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes) and ningyo-yaki (sweet red bean cakes), you'll feel transported back in time. After exploring the temple’s beautiful pagoda and garden, try a calming omikuji (fortune-telling paper slip) to see what the future holds.

Afternoon: Head to Ueno Park, a cultural and recreational hub. Visit the Tokyo National Museum to admire a vast collection of samurai swords, kimonos, and ancient pottery. Stroll through the park’s serene pathways, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season. For a more contemporary experience, visit the Ueno Zoo, Japan’s oldest zoo, or explore the modern art at the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum. For lunch, enjoy a traditional meal at a nearby restaurant, trying dishes like tempura or sushi.

Evening: Explore the vibrant district of Akihabara, a paradise for anime, manga, and technology enthusiasts. Dive into the colorful world of anime at the Mandarake Complex or enjoy a fun experience at a themed café, such as a maid café or a retro gaming café. For dinner, head to an izakaya (Japanese pub) like Kanda Yabu Soba, where you can sample a variety of small dishes paired with sake or beer. Wrap up your evening by browsing the neon-lit streets, full of arcades, electronics stores, and quirky pop culture shops.

Day 2: Modern Tokyo

Morning: Start your day in Shibuya, a bustling district known for the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world. Join the crowd of people crossing from all directions, and then take a moment to admire the scene from the second-floor Starbucks or from the Shibuya Sky Observation Deck. Don’t miss the Hachiko Statue, a tribute to the loyal dog Hachiko who waited for his owner every day at the station. For breakfast, visit a local café such as Shibuya Café 246, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and a cup of matcha latte.

Afternoon: Take a short walk to Harajuku, Tokyo’s center of youth culture and fashion. Explore the vibrant Takeshita Street, filled with quirky boutiques, colorful crepe stands, and vintage clothing shops. Sample a sweet or savory crepe and check out unique stores like Daiso Harajuku for affordable souvenirs. Escape the hustle and bustle by visiting the peaceful Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Wander through the expansive forested grounds and participate in traditional practices like making a wish at the shrine or writing a prayer on an ema (wooden plaque).

Evening: Head to Shinjuku, Tokyo’s nightlife hub. Start by visiting the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a free panoramic view of the city’s dazzling skyline. Then, explore the narrow, lantern-lit alleyways of Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane), where you can savor delicious yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and other Japanese street food. For dinner, try a local favorite like Nabezo, where you can enjoy shabu-shabu or sukiyaki hot pots. End your night by exploring Golden Gai, a district of over 200 tiny bars, each with its own unique theme and character.

Day 3: Culture and Nature

Morning: Start your day with a peaceful visit to the Imperial Palace East Gardens, part of the Emperor’s official residence. The gardens are open to the public and offer beautifully manicured landscapes, traditional Japanese gardens, and historical ruins, including the foundations of Edo Castle. Spend some time exploring the Ninomaru Garden, a picturesque spot with seasonal flowers and a serene pond.

Afternoon: Make your way to the upscale Ginza district, Tokyo’s premier shopping and dining area. Explore luxury department stores like Mitsukoshi and Ginza Six, which feature high-end brands and sophisticated eateries. For a unique experience, visit the Kabuki-za Theatre and catch a traditional Kabuki performance, or stop by the Ginza Graphic Gallery for a glimpse into Japan’s contemporary art scene. For lunch, indulge in gourmet sushi at a reputable restaurant like Sushi Daiwa or sample some high-quality wagyu beef at Ginza Steak.

Late Afternoon: Head to the tranquil Hamarikyu Gardens, a beautiful Edo-period garden that offers a striking contrast to the skyscrapers surrounding it. Stroll through the meticulously landscaped grounds, and enjoy matcha tea and sweets at the Nakajima-no-Ochaya teahouse, located on a pond with scenic views of the garden.

Evening: Conclude your Tokyo adventure with a visit to the iconic Tokyo Tower. Ascend to the main observation deck to take in breathtaking night views of the city, with landmarks like the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Skytree illuminated in the distance. For dinner, head to the nearby Roppongi district, known for its vibrant nightlife and international dining scene. Enjoy a kaiseki meal at Sukiyabashi Jiro or dine at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu, the restaurant that inspired the setting of the famous movie Kill Bill. After dinner, explore Roppongi’s buzzing bars and clubs, or visit the Mori Art Museum for a late-night dose of contemporary art.

5-Day Itinerary: In-Depth Tokyo Exploration

Days 1–3: Follow the 3-Day Itinerary Above

Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

Morning: Escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo with a day trip to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful temples, shrines, and natural scenery. Take the Tobu Railway train from Asakusa Station (about 2 hours) and start your day at the magnificent Toshogu Shrine, the lavishly decorated mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Marvel at the intricate carvings, colorful paintings, and famous "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" monkey sculptures.

Afternoon: Continue your exploration with a visit to Rinno-ji Temple, where you can see three giant gold Buddha statues, and then take a short hike to the stunning Kegon Falls. At nearly 100 meters tall, this breathtaking waterfall is one of Japan’s most spectacular natural attractions. Enjoy the panoramic views from the observation deck or take an elevator down to the base for a closer look. Have lunch at a local restaurant, sampling yuba (tofu skin), a regional specialty, or enjoy a warm bowl of soba noodles.

Evening: Return to Tokyo and unwind with dinner in the nostalgic Yanaka district, an area that retains the old-world charm of Tokyo’s past. Wander through the quiet streets, lined with traditional wooden houses and small temples. Enjoy dinner at Hantei, a historic restaurant specializing in kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), before heading back to your hotel to rest after a day filled with cultural and natural wonders.

Day 5: Art and Architecture

Morning: Begin your day at the Mori Art Museum, located in the Roppongi Hills complex. This contemporary art museum hosts rotating exhibitions featuring both Japanese and international artists. After exploring the thought-provoking exhibits, head to the adjacent Tokyo City View observation deck for a panoramic view of the city from the 52nd floor.

Afternoon: Cross the Rainbow Bridge to the futuristic district of Odaiba, a popular shopping and entertainment destination on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. Visit the innovative TeamLab Borderless, an interactive digital art museum that offers an immersive experience with its ever-changing light and sound installations. Afterward, stroll along the waterfront and visit the replica of the Statue of Liberty. For lunch, choose from a variety of restaurants offering Japanese, Italian, and international cuisine, many with stunning views of the bay.

Evening: Take a leisurely cruise along the Sumida River, departing from Odaiba or Asakusa. Watch the cityscape transform as you glide past iconic landmarks illuminated against the night sky. For dinner, explore the trendy Ebisu district, known for its upscale restaurants and stylish bars. Try a modern take on Japanese cuisine at Sushi Tokyo Ten, or enjoy a relaxed evening at Ebisu Yokocho, a lively food alley filled with tiny eateries serving everything from yakitori to sashimi. End your night with a visit to one of Ebisu’s craft beer bars or whisky lounges, savoring the flavors of Japan.

7-Day Itinerary: Full Immersion in Tokyo Life

Days 1–5: Follow the 5-Day Itinerary Above

Day 6: Modern Culture and Local Life

Morning: Start your day in the chic neighborhood of Daikanyama, often called the "Brooklyn of Tokyo." Begin with a stroll through the T-Site Tsutaya Books, a beautifully designed bookstore that’s a haven for book lovers and design enthusiasts alike. Browse the extensive collection of art, fashion, and travel books, and enjoy a coffee at the adjoining café. For breakfast, head to Ivy Place, a popular brunch spot with a lovely garden terrace serving delicious pancakes, eggs, and fresh juice.

Afternoon: Explore the trendy shops and boutiques that line the streets of Daikanyama and nearby Nakameguro. Visit the stylish Log Road Daikanyama, a pedestrian-only complex filled with cafes, shops, and breweries. For lunch, try the artisanal pizza at Seirinkan or the seasonal dishes at Kaikaya, both known for their unique takes on Japanese and Western cuisine.

Evening: Experience the historic charm of the Kagurazaka district. Often referred to as Tokyo’s “Little Kyoto,” this area is known for its narrow, cobbled alleys, traditional ryotei (restaurants), and hidden shrines. Visit the Akagi Shrine, designed by architect Kengo Kuma, and explore the neighborhood’s quaint shops and cozy cafes. For dinner, indulge in a kaiseki meal at Kyourakutei, or enjoy creative sushi at Sushisho Saito. End your day with a walk through the illuminated streets, savoring the blend of old and new in this enchanting area.

Day 7: Spiritual Tokyo and Hot Springs

Morning: Begin your day with a visit to Nezu Shrine, one of Tokyo’s oldest and most picturesque Shinto shrines. Nestled in the Bunkyo ward, this shrine is known for its vibrant red torii gates and beautiful azalea garden, which bursts into vibrant colors in late spring. Take your time walking through the torii path, admiring the serene ponds, and visiting the small sub-shrines scattered throughout the grounds. This tranquil setting is perfect for a quiet morning of reflection and photography, offering a peaceful start to your day.

Afternoon: Head to the historic Yanaka neighborhood, a charming area that retains the atmosphere of Tokyo’s past. Explore the narrow streets of Yanaka Ginza, a quaint shopping street lined with traditional stores selling handmade crafts, sweets, and souvenirs. This area, often referred to as “Shitamachi,” or old-town Tokyo, survived much of the modernization and war damage, preserving its nostalgic charm. After browsing the shops, visit the nearby Ueno Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The shrine’s tranquil grounds, dotted with centuries-old trees and stone lanterns, provide a peaceful escape from the bustling city. For lunch, enjoy a bowl of handmade soba or crispy tempura at a local eatery, such as Kamachiku, known for its delicious udon and traditional ambiance.

Evening: Conclude your Tokyo adventure with a visit to Thermae-Yu Onsen in Shinjuku, one of the city's top urban hot spring facilities. This modern onsen offers a variety of indoor and outdoor baths, including open-air baths, silky baths, and even carbonated baths, using natural hot spring water sourced from the Nakaizu region. Experience the relaxation of soaking in warm waters, then try a traditional yukata (light kimono) and unwind in the peaceful resting area. Enjoy a final meal at the onsen’s restaurant, where you can savor Japanese comfort food like donburi bowls, sashimi, and seasonal dishes in a serene setting.
This comprehensive 7-day itinerary allows you to fully experience Tokyo’s dynamic blend of tradition, innovation, and culture

Need help planning the perfect holiday escape to Japan Let Isla Guru Islands Travel Guide inspire your next adventure.‍