Tokyo… The city which as it all- from ancient shrines, to robotic cafes, tranquil gardens to wild nightlife.
It could be bit overwhelming , where to go , where to stay, where to eat , especially for first time visitors. Don’t worry, this perfect 4 days guide has you covered!
Some tips :
- Best time to visit – March/April for cherry blossom, October/November for most colorful fall.
- Where to stay – Shinjuku or Shibuya area.
- How to get around – With JR pass you can use Tokyo Yamanote line to get around.
- Add Suica to your phone wallet, it is convenient way to pay for bus ticket, in shops and more.
- Contactless payments do not always work, so make sure that you have cash or Suica.
- Instead of pocket Wi-Fi opt for eSim. We used Ubigi app for that.
- Conbini is going to be your next best friend!
- If you plan on visiting any of Tokyo’s most famous tourist spots then I strongly advise you to purchase tickets online as far in advance as possible.
Day 1 Traditional Tokyo
Morning:
- Meiji Shrine: Start your day with a visit to this serene Shinto shrine nestled in a forested area, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
- Harajuku & Takeshita Street: Explore the vibrant and quirky fashion district, known for its trendy shops, street food, and youth culture.
Afternoon:
- Senso-ji Temple: Head to Asakusa to visit Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple. Explore Nakamise Street, a shopping street filled with traditional snacks and souvenirs.
- Imperial Palace & East Gardens: visit to the Imperial Palace, the residence of Japan’s Emperor, and explore its beautiful East Gardens.
Evening:
- Shibuya Crossing: Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world. Visit the nearby Hachiko Statue, a symbol of loyalty.
- Tokyo Skytree: Visit the observation decks of this towering structure for panoramic views of Tokyo, especially beautiful at sunset and after dark. Or opt for Shibuya Sky.
- Dinner in Shibuya: Choose from an array of dining options, from sushi bars to ramen joints, and soak in the vibrant nightlife.
Day 2: Modern Tokyo
Morning:
- Tsukiji Outer Market: Explore this lively market, famous for fresh seafood, street food stalls, and sushi restaurants. Enjoy breakfast or brunch here.
- Ginza: Stroll through Tokyo’s upscale shopping district, home to luxury boutiques, department stores, and sleek modern architecture. Try Glitch Coffee and Roasters while you there.
Afternoon:
- Akihabara: Dive into the electric town of Akihabara, a paradise for tech lovers, anime fans, and gamers. Explore electronic shops, themed cafes, and arcades.
Evening:
- Shinjuku area , visit famous Godzilla head in Shinjuku Toho building.
- Amusement center Me Tokyo Shinjuku with hundreds of gachapon machines.
- Grab a dinner at one of conveyer belt sushi restaurants.
- Golden Gai -This tiny enclave is a maze of narrow alleyways, lined with over 200 tiny bars, each with its own distinct personality and charm. Unlike the glitzy skyscrapers and bustling avenues that define much of Shinjuku, Golden Gai offers an intimate, retro experience, where stepping inside feels like traveling back to Tokyo’s post-war era. Note that some of the bars are available only for locals.
Day 3 – Day trip to Mt.Fuji
A day trip from Tokyo to the Mt. Fuji area offers an unforgettable escape into Japan’s natural beauty, where iconic landscapes and tranquil villages provide a serene contrast to the bustling city. This journey takes you to the foot of Japan’s most famous mountain, where you can experience the stunning views of Mt. Fuji up close, alongside picturesque spots like Oshino Hakkai and Lake Kawaguchi.
Best and most convenient way is to book a guided tour. We have used https://www.getyourguide.com/tokyo-l193/tokyo-arount-mtfuji-areaoshino-hakkaikawaguchi-day-tour-t515111/, it was a bit hectic to find our bus, but we enjoyed the tour nevertheless. It includes 5 scenic spots for best views of Mt. Fuji.
Day 4 – Day trip to Nikko
Nestled in the mountains just a few hours north of Tokyo, Nikko is a destination where Japan’s rich history and natural beauty come together in perfect harmony. A day trip to Nikko offers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in a serene world of ancient temples, lush forests, and stunning waterfalls.
At the heart of Nikko lies the Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan’s most lavishly decorated temples. The famous “See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil” monkeys, along with the sleeping cat carving, are just a few of the artistic details that make Toshogu Shrine a must-visit.
Tucked away from the more famous sites of Nikko, Kanmangafuchi Abyss is a serene and mysterious spot that offers a peaceful retreat into nature. This hidden gem, carved by the Daiya River, is known for its striking rock formations, lush greenery, and the hauntingly beautiful row of stone Jizo statues that silently watch over the gorge.
More things to do in Tokyo:
- MORI Digital Art Museum
- Art Aquarium Museum Ginza
- Studio Ghibli museum ( if you are lucky to get the tickets)
- Koto city
- Nissan Crossing
This itinerary offers a well-rounded exploration of Tokyo, from its traditional roots to its modern, cutting-edge culture, ensuring you experience the city’s full range of attractions and vibes.
