Tokyo
Discover Tokyo
Why Choose Tokyo
Tokyo is a city where ancient traditions and cutting-edge innovation exist side by side. Explore historic temples, neon-lit neighborhoods, world-class food, peaceful gardens, design districts, and some of the most exciting hotels in Asia. From the calm of Asakusa to the energy of Shibuya and Shinjuku, Tokyo offers a different experience in every neighborhood.
Why Visit Tokyo?
Four reasons to put Tokyo on your travel list.
Top Tokyo Attractions
Explore the landmarks, neighborhoods, landscapes, and experiences that make Tokyo memorable.
Senso-ji & Asakusa
Shibuya Crossing
Meiji Shrine & Harajuku
Tokyo Skytree
Tsukiji Outer Market
What to Eat in Tokyo
Taste local favorites and discover the food experiences that belong on your itinerary.
-
🍣 Sushi
Try traditional sushi counters, casual neighborhood sushi shops, and high-end omakase experiences.
-
🍜 Ramen
Explore Tokyo’s many ramen styles, from rich tonkotsu and shoyu broths to lighter regional interpretations.
-
🍢 Yakitori
Enjoy charcoal-grilled chicken skewers in intimate izakayas, often paired with seasonal dishes and Japanese drinks.
-
🍱 Kaiseki & Japanese Cuisine
For a special occasion, experience carefully prepared seasonal dishes emphasizing presentation, balance, and local ingredients.
3-Day Tokyo Itinerary
A practical starting itinerary for a first visit to Tokyo.
- Senso-ji and Asakusa
- Nakamise shopping street
- Tokyo Skytree
- Ueno Park
- Dinner in an izakaya in Ueno or Asakusa
- Meiji Shrine
- Harajuku and Takeshita Street
- Shibuya Crossing
- Shibuya Sky viewpoint
- Dinner and nightlife in Shibuya or Shinjuku
- Tsukiji Outer Market
- Ginza
- Imperial Palace East Gardens
- Akihabara or teamLab experience
- Sunset city views and a final Japanese dinner
Best Time to Visit Tokyo
Choose your travel season based on weather, crowds, activities, and the type of experience you want.
- Cherry blossoms can create spectacular scenery
- Comfortable temperatures for sightseeing
- Excellent season for gardens and outdoor neighborhoods
- Book early if traveling during peak blossom periods
- Warm and humid weather
- Seasonal festivals and fireworks
- Good time for evening entertainment and mountain excursions
- Expect occasional rain during the early summer rainy season
- Pleasant sightseeing conditions
- Colorful autumn foliage in parks and gardens
- Excellent food season
- Generally a comfortable period for combining Tokyo with day trips
- Cool, often clear days
- Fewer crowds at many attractions
- Illuminations and winter events
- Good conditions for city sightseeing and hot-spring day trips
Recommended Hotels in Tokyo
Explore hotel styles for different budgets and travel purposes. Replace the buttons with your Travelpayouts affiliate links.
Aman Tokyo
Park Hyatt Tokyo
Hoshinoya Tokyo
The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho
Getting Around Tokyo
Understand the easiest ways to move between the main sights and neighborhoods.
-
🚇 Rail & Metro
Tokyo’s extensive rail and subway network is the most practical way to move between major neighborhoods. Use an IC transit card for convenience.
-
🚕 Taxis
Taxis are clean and reliable for late-night journeys or short trips, though they cost more than public transport.
-
🚶 Walking
Many neighborhoods are best experienced on foot, especially around Asakusa, Yanaka, Harajuku, Shibuya, and Ginza.
-
🚄 Day Trips
Japan’s rail network makes excursions to places such as Kamakura, Nikko, Hakone, and other destinations straightforward.
Tokyo Travel Tips
Practical advice to help you plan a smoother trip.
-
Stay Near a Major Station
Choose accommodation near a convenient train or subway station to reduce travel time across the enormous city.
-
Allow More Time Than You Expect
Tokyo is geographically large. Group attractions by neighborhood rather than trying to cross the city repeatedly.
-
Learn a Few Japanese Basics
Simple phrases such as arigato and sumimasen are useful, while translation apps help with menus and signs.
-
Respect Local Etiquette
Keep voices low on trains, follow queueing customs, and check restaurant or attraction rules before entering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about planning a trip to Tokyo.
How many days should I spend in Tokyo?
Five to seven days is a comfortable first visit, giving you time for major neighborhoods plus at least one day trip.
Is Tokyo expensive?
Tokyo has luxury hotels and fine dining, but also excellent convenience stores, casual restaurants, public transport, and mid-range accommodation.
What is the best area to stay in Tokyo?
Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza, Tokyo Station, and Asakusa are popular choices, each offering a different atmosphere and transport advantages.
Is Tokyo good for families?
Yes. Families can enjoy parks, museums, aquariums, themed attractions, shopping districts, and efficient public transportation.
