Tokyo Itinerary for First-Time Visitors (3 Days + Bonus Tips)

First time visiting Tokyo? You are in for a thrilling ride, just do not let the city's sheer size and energy overwhelm you. From ancient temples to neon-lit streets, Tokyo is a city of contrasts. With the right itinerary and some advance planning, you can see the highlights without feeling rushed or lost in translation. 

One thing that really stands out about Tokyo, especially for first-time visitors, is that it does not feel like one single city. It is more like a patchwork of smaller cities, each with its own vibe, rhythm, and identity. One minute you are walking through the quiet gardens of the Imperial Palace, and the next you are under the glow of Shinjuku’s bright billboards. From the old-world charm of Asakusa to the sleek storefronts of Ginza, or the creative chaos of Harajuku, every neighborhood in Tokyo feels like its own world. To truly experience Tokyo, lean into those contrasts and allow yourself to get wonderfully lost in them.

This easy-to-follow three-day Tokyo itinerary is designed specifically for first-time visitors, giving you a balance of cultural landmarks, must-see neighborhoods, and time to explore at your own pace. Whether you are visiting Japan for the sushi, shrines, or shopping, you will leave knowing you have experienced the best of Japan's capital city.

Table of Contents:

1. Before You Go: Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors to Tokyo 
2. 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary for First-Time Visitors 
3. Easy Day Trips from Tokyo
4. Final Tips for Visiting Tokyo for the First Time
5. Ready to discover Tokyo? 

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Before You Go: Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors to Tokyo

Here are a few essential tips to help you navigate Tokyo and make the most of your trip.

What to Know Before Visiting Tokyo

• Language: While many signs and train announcements in Japan are bilingual, English is not widely spoken, especially outside of major tourist spots, so learning a few basic Japanese phrases can really enhance your experience. Simple words like konnichiwa (hello), arigatou gozaimasu (thank you), and sumimasen (excuse me) go a long way in showing respect and connecting with locals. It is a thoughtful gesture that is genuinely appreciated. For everything else, Google Translate is a lifesaver, especially the Google Lens feature, which lets you instantly translate signs and menus with your camera. Be sure to download the Japanese language pack ahead of time so you can use it offline during your trip.
• Money: Japan is still very much a cash-based society. While larger retailers will accept credit and debit cards, you will undoubtedly need cash. I recommend using the ATMs located at 7-Eleven convenience stores as they accept international bank cards without issue. 
• Etiquette: Proper etiquette is a deeply ingrained part of Japanese culture, and being mindful of local customs can go a long way in showing respect during your visit. First-time travelers should note a few basics: speak quietly in public spaces—especially on trains, where phone calls and loud conversations are considered disruptive; always patiently wait in line and avoid cutting in line; and remove your shoes when entering homes, traditional inns, or certain indoor spaces like temples or restaurants with tatami mats. It is also polite to avoid eating while walking, finish all food on your plate, and keep public displays of affection to a minimum. One of the most common and important gestures is bowing, used to greet, thank, or show respect—when in doubt, a slight nod is always appreciated. While some customs may feel unfamiliar at first, approaching them with awareness and humility will make your time in Japan more enjoyable and meaningful.  
• Connectivity: Most hotels in Japan offer free Wi-Fi, but reliable public Wi-Fi is not widely available, especially when you are out exploring. As such, I think it is a good idea to purchase a Japan eSIM card ahead of your trip. Having mobile data will make it much easier to navigate train stations, translate menus, and stay connected on the go. I always use Airalo when I travel, including on my trip to Japan. Get $3 off your first eSIM data pack from Airalo when you sign up or use code LAUREN5219 at checkout.

Where to Stay in Tokyo for First-Time Visitors 

While Tokyo has many great neighborhoods, Ginza and Shibuya are the two that I recommend for first-time visitors to Tokyo. Both areas are well-connected by train and make a great home base for exploring the rest of the city. Some general information about each neighborhood and hotels I recommend (including the ones that I stayed in) is below. 

• Ginza: Ginza is one of Tokyo’s most upscale and stylish neighborhoods, known for its luxury shopping, art galleries, fine dining, and polished, walkable streets. Centrally located between Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace, it offers easy access to major subway lines, making it a convenient base for exploring the rest of the city. If you are looking for a neighborhood that is clean, quiet at night, and close to many of Tokyo’s top sights, Ginza is an excellent place to stay. Some of the hotels that I recommend in Ginza are listed below.
  • The Gate Hotel Tokyo by HULIC (I stayed here in 2024!)
  • Hyatt Centric Ginza Tokyo
  • The Royal Park Canvas Ginza Corridor
  • Yotel Tokyo Ginza
  • The Peninsula Tokyo
• Shibuya: Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s most energetic and iconic neighborhoods, famous for its buzzing nightlife, trendy shopping, and of course, the world-famous Shibuya Crossing. Located on Tokyo’s west side, it is well-connected by multiple train and subway lines, making it a great base for exploring neighborhoods like Harajuku, Shinjuku, and even central Tokyo. If you want to stay somewhere lively and packed with restaurants, cafés, and things to do, Shibuya is a great choice. Some of the hotels that I recommend in Shibuya are listed below. 
  • Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya by IHG (I stayed here in 2024!)
  • Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya
  • Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel

Getting Around Tokyo

Tokyo's train system can seem intimidating at first, but it is actually one of the most efficient in the world. Getting around Tokyo is easiest by using its subway system, which connects all major neighborhoods, landmarks, and attractions with speed and reliability. While buses are less commonly used by visitors, they are a good option for reaching areas not served by rail. Taxis are safe and convenient, especially late at night or when traveling with luggage, but they are significantly more expensive and best avoided during rush hours.

I recommend using a navigation aid, like Google Maps or Apple Maps, to help you get around Tokyo. Even though the subway system is user-friendly, figuring out the most efficient route for your destination can be tricky on your first trip to Tokyo without the help of a navigation app. For all modes of transit, using a Suica or Pasmo IC card makes payments quick and hassle-free.

Suica Cards 

A Suica card (or its equivalent, Pasmo) is a reloadable IC card that makes getting around Tokyo incredibly easy. You can use it on subways, trains, buses, and even at convenience stores, vending machines, and some shops and restaurants. Simply tap in and out at ticket gates, no need to fumble with paper tickets or calculate fares. You can purchase a Suica card at major train stations or load a digital version directly onto your iPhone or Apple Watch if you have a compatible device. It is one of the most convenient tools for navigating Tokyo like a local.

3-Day Tokyo Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

This itinerary is planned out to help you experience the best of Tokyo without zig-zagging all over the city and feeling overwhelmed. You will explore old and new, traditional and modern, all in a logical, easy-to-navigate route. Please keep in mind that this three-day itinerary begins after your arrival in Tokyo and does not include travel days. Most flights from the United States and Canada land in Tokyo during the late afternoon or evening, and many return flights depart in the evening as well. From my experience, the cheapest round-trip flights are for Tokyo, so consider starting your time in Japan in Tokyo. 

Day 1: Tradition & Tokyo's Historic Roots

Morning: Senso-ji Temple & Nakamise-dori

I recommend starting your time in Tokyo with a visit to Senso-ji Temple. Senso-ji Temple is Tokyo's oldest and most iconic temple, founded in 628 AD. Located in the historic Asakusa district, this Buddhist temple is dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy. It has survived wars, fires, and natural disasters. It continues to be a spiritual and cultural center in modern-day Tokyo. Senso-ji Temple is also one of my top five must-see attractions and museums in Tokyo!

Walking through the Kaminarimon Gate (with its massive lantern), then down the busy Nakamise street (Nakamise-dori), lined with vendors selling everything from traditional sweets and souvenirs, to some fantastic street food, is a must-do during your time in Tokyo. The temple grounds and Nakamise-dori offer a striking contrast between centuries-old Japanese tradition and the modern skyline in the distance, including the Tokyo Skytree which is Japan's tallest tower. 

For first-time visitors, Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise-dori is the perfect place to begin your time in Tokyo: it is deeply atmospheric, easy to access, and surrounded by classic neighborhood charm. You will get a sense of Tokyo’s unique blend of old and new, plus plenty of photo opportunities to kick off your trip.

Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise-dori are extremely popular attractions with tourists, so I recommend getting an early start to beat the crowds that will come later in the day. While the temple grounds are open 24 hours, the main hall is only open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily (with reduced hours from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM between October and March). Most shops and stalls along Nakamise-dori open between 9:00 and 10:00 AM and typically close by 5:00 PM, daily.

I visited Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise-dori on my first full-day in Tokyo and found it to be a great introduction to the city. I suggest stopping by a few of the stalls to try some of the food or even get lunch in the area before heading to our next stop: Ueno Park and the Tokyo National Museum. 

Afternoon: Ueno Park & Tokyo National Museum 

Next, head to the nearby Ueno Park. Ueno Park is a large green space with museums, ponds, walking trails, and even a fantastic zoo. While Ueno Park is great for an afternoon stroll, we are here to see the Tokyo National Museum, a must-visit for first-time visitors to Tokyo and another of my top five must-see attractions and museums in Tokyo.

The Tokyo National Museum is Japan’s oldest and most comprehensive museum. Located in Ueno Park, the museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including samurai armor, elaborate silk kimonos, woodblock prints, Buddhist sculptures, and ancient ceramics. What makes this museum especially valuable for first-time visitors is how clearly it traces the evolution of Japanese art, design, and spirituality across centuries. If you only have time to visit one museum during your time in Japan, make it the Tokyo National Museum. You should plan to spend the remainder of your afternoon visiting the Tokyo National Museum. 

Please keep in mind that the Tokyo National Museum is closed on Mondays, unless a public holiday falls on a Monday; in that case, the museum will be open and closed the following day. For the most up-to-date opening hours, scheduled closures, ticket costs, and information regarding special exhibitions, please visit the Tokyo National Museum website. 

Alternative Options Nearby:

The Ueno area has some other nearby options that could make for great additions (or substitutions) to your Tokyo itinerary, including:

• Ueno Zoo: Japan's oldest zoo, Ueno Zoo, is a fun and family-friendly option for your time in Tokyo, located right inside of Ueno Park. The zoo is home to over 400 animal species, including a family of giant pandas! 🐼 If you are traveling with children, or just want a relaxed (and affordable!) activity after visiting Senso-ji Temple, the Ueno Zoo is a great place to visit. In fact, it was actually one of the highlights of my time in Tokyo! For additional information, visit the Ueno Zoo website.

• Tokyo Skytree: For panoramic views of Tokyo, consider visiting the Tokyo Skytree. Standing at 2,080 feet (634 meters), it is the tallest structure in Japan. Constructed to serve as a broadcasting tower, its observation decks offer views of Mt. Fuji on clear days. If you are someone who loves to get the "lay of the land" early on, visiting Tokyo Skytree gives you a great introduction to Tokyo's sheer scale. For additional information, visit the Tokyo Skytree website.

• Ueno Toshogu Shrine: Located within Ueno Park, the Ueno Toshogu Shrine is a serene and often overlooked gem in Tokyo. Built in 1627, the shrine is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. With its ornate gold-leafed façade and peaceful gardens, this shrine offers a quieter, more reflective alternative to Senso-ji Temple, perfect for travelers seeking historical depth in a less crowded setting. The shrine is also home to an incredible peony garden which is open twice a year, from New Year's Day through mid-February and mid-April through mid-May. For more information, visit the Ueno Toshogu Shrine website.
• Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum: Art lovers will appreciate the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, also located in Ueno Park. This modern building hosts rotating exhibitions of both Japanese and international art. It is a great choice if you are visiting Tokyo during bad weather, or are simply looking for an opportunity to see some incredible art in a peaceful, thoughtfully curated space. For additional information, visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum website. 

Evening: Dinner Near Your Hotel

To wrap up your first day in Tokyo, I recommend keeping things low-key with dinner near your hotel. The city is massive and can be a bit overwhelming at first, so giving yourself a calm evening can really help you ease into Tokyo. If you are staying in Shibuya or Ginza, my top picks for first-time visitors, I will share a few of my favorite restaurant recommendations in these neighborhoods later in this post.

If you would rather explore Tokyo on your own, Tabelog is a fantastic resource for finding highly rated local spots. It is basically the Japanese version of Yelp, but better! Just a heads-up, Tabelog’s rating system is much stricter than what you might be used to with Yelp, OpenTable, or even Tripadvisor. A score above 3.5 is considered excellent, and anything above 4.0 is truly exceptional. Do not expect to see a lot of 5-star ratings, Japanese reviewers are notoriously tough.

Day 2: Pop Culture & City Views

Morning: Meiji Shrine

I recommend beginning your second day in Tokyo with a peaceful stroll through the forested paths of Meiji Shrine, also known as Meiji Jingu. Meiji Shrine is a tranquil, Shinto shrine located in Shibuya. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, who helped usher Japan into the modern era (known as the Meiji Restoration), the shrine was completed in 1920 and remains one of the most important spiritual sites in Tokyo. Visitors enter the shrine through towering torii gates and walk along wide gravel paths surrounded by over 100,000 trees, donated from people all across Japan. The air is quiet, the atmosphere reverent, and the setting feels worlds away from the nearby chaos of Harajuku and Shibuya.

One thing I really love about Meiji Shrine is how calm and quiet it feels, even though it is located in one of the busiest areas in Tokyo. What actually surprised me the most, though, was how huge it is. The grounds stretch across nearly 173 acres (70 hectares) and it honestly feels like you have stepped into a forest in the middle of the city, which is why the shrine is on my list of the top five must-see attractions and museums in Tokyo.

Meiji Shrine is open daily from sunrise to sunset and is free to visit. For additional information, including exact opening and closing times by month, please visit the Meiji Jingu website.

Midday: Takeshita Street & Harajuku 

No first-time trip to Tokyo is complete without a stroll down Takeshita Street, the beating heart of Harajuku and a global symbol of Japanese youth culture. What looks like just a narrow pedestrian alley near Harajuku Station is actually one of the most iconic places in the city; a chaotic, colorful, and totally captivating world of fashion, snacks, and self-expression.

Harajuku rose to international fame in the 1980s and 1990s as the epicenter of Japanese street style. It became known for its wildly creative and rebellious fashion subcultures with looks that blended Eastern and Western influences with originality. This explosion of creativity was fueled by Japan’s post-war youth movement, which transformed Harajuku into a hub of counterculture and identity experimentation.

Along Takeshita Street, expect a sensory overload, in the best way imaginable. The air smells like fried dough, sweet cream, and caramelizing sugar thanks to the endless parade of street food stalls. Some spots worth trying for lunch or an afternoon snack, include:

• Marion Crêpes – One of the oldest and most famous spots for sweet and savory Japanese-style crêpes. They have over 70 options to choose from and the long line to order is worth the wait!
  
  
  
• Totti Candy Factory – Known for their oversized rainbow cotton candy (a must for your Insta feed)! 
• Zaku Zaku – A dessert shop that specializes in croquant chou, a crispy, cream-filled pastry, that is basically like a churro and a cream puff had a baby. “Zaku zaku” is the Japanese onomatopoeia for crunch, and this dessert absolutely lives up to the name. The pastries are light, flaky, and filled with custard cream.
• Strawberry Fetish – A haven for strawberry lovers, their signature treat is a skewer of glazed, glossy strawberries. It is as photogenic as it is delicious!
  
  
• Kura Sushi Harajuku – Kura Sushi bring a fun, high-tech twist to Japan's beloved conveyor belt sushi. It is perfect if you want something more savory after a sugar-fueled stroll down Takeshita Street. In true Harajuku fashion, Kura Sushi is more than just sushi rolls, also serving sushi crêpes. Plus, the restaurant offers a capsule-toy prize system that kicks in after every five plates you order, making it extra fun if you are traveling with friends or family. 

Harajuku is not just about snacks and style, it is also one of the best neighborhoods in Tokyo for shopping, especially if you love second-hand fashion or offbeat finds. You will find everything from vintage designer pieces and niche streetwear labels to one-of-a-kind accessories and retro tees. My favorite second-hand store in Harajuku is Ragtag Harajuku, however, there are plenty of others. If you are looking for additional second-hand store recommendations in Harajuku, check out this list from Live Japan. 

Whether you are in Harajuku to shop, snack, or just soak in the funky atmosphere, Harajuku is a place that fully embraces individuality and encourages you to do the same. It is weird, wonderful, and completely Tokyo.

Afternoon: Shibuya Scramble Crossing & Shibuya Sky 

It might be cliché, but the iconic Shibuya Crossing really does live up to the hype. Thousands of people cross in every direction at once, and somehow, it all flows. It is a little chaotic, a little surreal, and completely unforgettable, especially if it is your first time in Tokyo.

What makes this experience even better is seeing it from above. The Shibuya Sky observation deck, located on the top floor and roof of the Shibuya Scramble Square building, offers one of the best panoramic views in the city, including of the iconic street crossing down below. (It is also my top attraction in Tokyo on my list of the top five must-see attractions and museums in Tokyo!) The open-air rooftop is beautifully designed and gives you a full 360-degree look at Tokyo, all the way out to Mt. Fuji 🗻 on a clear day (which I was lucky enough to see).

The most popular time to visit the Shibuya Sky observation deck is about an hour before sunset. While, in my opinion, the sunset from up top was rather uneventful, the golden hour views of Tokyo and the ever-majestic Mt. Fuji in the distance was special to see. With that being said, if you are interested in a sunset-timed visit to Shibuya Sky, be sure to book your tickets as soon as they go on sale on the Shibuya Sky website. If you are looking to visit at any time in the afternoon, outside of the sunset window, you should still book your tickets in advance since they do sell out, but you do not have to book them as far in advance.

Jetset Seeker Pro Tip: Admission to Shibuya Sky is cheaper before 3:00 PM! If you are looking to save a little bit of money and visit when the tower is quieter, go earlier in the day! 

You are not permitted to bring any bags out onto the Shibuya Sky observation deck with you and will have to store your belongings in a locker. If you plan on shopping in Harajuku before you visit Shibuya Sky, you may want to consider running back to your hotel to drop off your bags before ascending to the top of the observation deck.

Shibuya Sky is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:30 PM, with the latest admission at 9:20 PM. Shibuya Sky is closed on New Year's Day, annually. The rooftop observation deck may close due to inclement weather without advance notice. For additional information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Shibuya Sky website. 

Evening: Dinner in Shibuya 

Day 3: Elegant Tokyo & Iconic Streetscapes 

Morning: Imperial Palace Gardens

Located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, the Imperial Palace is the official residence of Japan’s Emperor and one of the city’s most historically significant landmarks. While the Imperial Palace is closed to the public, you can still visit the beautifully maintained Imperial Palace East Gardens, which are open to everyone and free to enter.

If you are eager to see more of the palace grounds, you can do so on a guided tour. Guided tours of the Imperial Palace are actually free of charge and happen twice per day, once in the morning and once in the afternoon. No guided tours take place on Sundays or Mondays. For additional information regarding the Imperial Palace, please visit the Imperial Household Agency website.

If you are interested in Japanese history or just want a quiet place to start your day, the gardens offer a welcome break from the city’s more crowded attractions. The Imperial Palace is a short walk from Tokyo Station and pairs well with nearby stops to Ginza and the Tsukiji Outer Market, where we are headed to next.

Late Morning/Midday: Tsukiji Outer Market

Tsukiji Outer Market is one of those places that is undeniably touristy, but still totally worth visiting, especially if it is your first time in Tokyo. While the inner wholesale fish market moved to Toyosu in 2018, the outer market remains very much alive, packed with food stalls, small restaurants, and vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to Japanese knives.

Yes, it gets busy around lunchtime, and yes, some of the food is on the pricier side, but the energy is part of the experience. Wandering the narrow lanes just feels like Tokyo. You will find everything from buttery uni and Wagyu beef skewers to sushi, matcha-flavored treats, and seasonal street snacks. I sampled food ranging from Wagyu sushi and grilled squid, to steamed meat buns and sesame ice cream.

If you are looking for a quick, fun way to sample Japanese flavors without committing to a full sit-down meal, Tsukiji Outer Market is it. It is fast-paced, flavorful, and a great way to dive into the city's food culture, even if it is crowded.

Just keep in mind that eating while walking is considered impolite in Japan, so step the side after ordering your food and enjoy it before moving on to the next stall. 

Visiting Tsukiji Market with a Guide 

If you are interested in visiting Tsukiji Outer Market with a guide, that is also an option! Our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide, offers a few experiences that are worthwhile, especially if the thought of visiting a packed market in a foreign country overwhelms you. (Trust me, the market can be a bit overwhelming.) A few of the highest rated tours and experiences at Tsukiji Market are listed below.

• Tsukiji Fish Market Food & Walking Tour
• Tsukiji Fish Market: Street Food & Culture Walking Tour
• Tsukiji Fish Market Street Food Tour with Tasting
• Tsukiji Fish Market Sushi Making Class with Pro Chef

Afternoon: Explore Hamarikyu Gardens & Ginza

After the buzz of Tsukiji Outer Market, Hamarikyu Gardens (also known as Hama-rikyu), just a short walk away, feels like a complete reset. Originally a feudal lord’s estate, these beautifully landscaped gardens sit right on the edge of Tokyo Bay, surrounded by a contrast of modern skyscrapers.

The garden is incredible year-round, with seasonal highlights that make each visit feel different. Even in the winter, the gardens are beautiful. When I visited in January, the plum blossoms were already blooming, adding unexpected pops of  bright pink color to an otherwise chilly afternoon. The gardens are especially popular during cherry blossom season in the spring. 

One of the most unique things about Hamarikyu is the teahouse, where you can sit down and experience traditional Japanese tea while looking out over a tranquil pond. It is simple, calming, and a great way to slow down after the fast-paced energy of the market. As an added bonus, the tea experience is casual and does not need to be booked in advance!

Since you are already in the area for lunch, a visit to Hamarikyu is an easy and worthwhile addition to your day and an ideal way to experience your first traditional Japanese garden. The gardens are open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The gardens are closed from December 29 through January 1, annually. 

Explore Ginza

I recommend spending the rest of your afternoon in Ginza, before having dinner and drinks in the area (more on that in a moment). Ginza is one of Tokyo's most elegant neighborhoods and also my favorite. Known for its wide boulevards, flagship department stores, and polished storefronts, Ginza is where traditional craftsmanship meets modern luxury. Plus, it is not nearly as chaotic as Shibuya!

If you are in the mood to shop, you will find everything in Ginza from global fashion houses like Hermès and Dior to affordable Japanese brands like Uniqlo (the massive multi-level flagship is worth a stop) and MUJI. For something a little more unique, wander into Itoya, a beautifully curated stationery store that has been around for over a century, or check out Matsuya and Mitsukoshi, two of Tokyo’s most historic department stores. For those interested in Japanese streetwear, there is no better place to shop than Dover Street Market Ginza. 

However, Ginza is not just for shopping. It is also home to some architectural landmarks and public art. Keep an eye out for the Wako Building with its classic clock tower (now home the headquarters of Seiko Group, the Japanese watch brand), and the Kabukiza Theatre.

Even if you are not buying anything, Ginza is just a beautiful area to wander through. It is clean, calm, and totally different in vibe from the rest of the city. It is the perfect way to wind down after a full day of exploring Tokyo.

Evening: Dinner & Drinks in Ginza 

I recommend ending your day in Ginza with dinner and drinks. This neighborhood has no shortage of excellent restaurants. One of the reasons I love Ginza so much is that, despite its upscale reputation, it feels less touristy than places like Shibuya or Shinjuku, especially in the evenings. It is a bit more refined, a little quieter, and perfect for a relaxing night out. From tons of options in Ginza SIX (I had great soba at Ginza Sanada Main Store) and local sushi spots (I personally loved Sushi Zanmai), you really cannot go wrong with dinner in Ginza. If you are looking for other restaurant suggestions in Ginza, be sure to check out Tabelog. 

If you are in the mood for a cocktail, two of my favorite bars in Tokyo are right here: Bar Orchard, a low-lit spot with an intimate, eclectic vibe, and Mixology Salon, where the drinks are creative, elegant, and often feature unexpected ingredients like matcha or yuzu smoke. Both of these cocktail bars are worth seeking out and make a perfect end to your day in Ginza and your last night in Tokyo.

Alternative Options Nearby:

If shopping in Ginza is not really your thing, or if you are craving a different kind of afternoon in Tokyo, consider heading over to Shinjuku instead. It is one of Tokyo’s busiest and most dynamic neighborhoods, full of energy and hidden gems.

While you are in Shinjuku, do not miss Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. It is one of the most beautiful green spaces in Tokyo, with a mix of Japanese, French, English-style gardens, and even a large greenhouse filled with tropical plants. Whether you are visiting during cherry blossom season or the middle of winter, it is always a worthwhile visit. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is closed on Mondays (if Monday falls on a public holiday, the garden will remain open and will be closed the following day instead) and December 29 through January 3, annually. For additional information please visit the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden website.

Here are a few other ideas for how to spend your time in Shinjuku:

• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building – Free observation decks with great views of the city.
• Omoide Yokocho – A maze of tiny alleyway restaurants, great for grabbing a drink and bite later in the day.
• Golden Gai – If you are staying out in Shinjuku into the evening, this nightlife district is filled with dozens of tiny bars packed into just a few blocks.
• Godzilla at the Shinjuku Toho Building – No visit to Shinjuku would be complete without snapping a photo with the giant Godzilla perched atop the Shinjuku Toho Building; you can even hear it roar at scheduled times throughout the day.
  
  

Easy Day Trips from Tokyo

If you have an extra day or two in Tokyo, these day trips are easily accessible from the city. 

Tokyo Disney Resort

If you are looking to add a little ✨ magic ✨ to your Tokyo itinerary, Tokyo Disney Resort makes for an easy and unforgettable day trip. Located less than an hour from central Tokyo, the resort includes both Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, the later of which is the only park of its kind in the world. Whether you are a Disney fan or just curious about Japanese theme park culture, it is a fun experience that blends familiar attractions with uniquely Japanese touches. Tokyo Disney food is also outstanding, just one more reason you will want to plan a day trip here! For more information about Tokyo Disney Resort and how to visit, read our full guide to Tokyo Disney Resort.

Gala Yuzawa Snow Resort (Winter Only)

For a winter day trip from Tokyo, it does not get more convenient than Gala Yuzawa. Just 90 minutes away on the Shinkansen (bullet train), this ski resort has its own Shinkansen station inside, so you can be on the slopes by mid-morning and back in Tokyo by dinner. Whether you are snowboarding, skiing, or just want to play in the snow, Gala Yuzawa is an easy and accessible way to enjoy a winter wonderland in the Niigata prefecture. To learn more and plan your day trip from Tokyo to Gala Yuzawa, check out our Yuzawa Travel Guide. 

Mt. Fuji & Fuji Five Lakes

If seeing the majestic Mount Fuji is on your bucket list, a day trip to the Fuji Five Lakes region is one of the best ways to do it! Located at the northern base of Mt. Fuji, this area offers breathtaking views, hot springs, lakeside vistas, and small villages perfect for exploring. It is a peaceful escape from Tokyo and a great way to see Japan’s natural beauty. To learn more about Mt. Fuji and the surrounding area, be sure to explore our Fuji Five Lakes Travel Guide.

Final Tips for Visiting Tokyo for the First Time

Just to recap what we covered in this blog post and a few extra tips to help you make the most of your Tokyo itinerary for first-time visitors, here are a few final travel tips for Tokyo to keep in mind. 

• Keep Things Low-Key on Day 1: Tokyo is massive (with over 38 million people living in the Tokyo metro area) and it is easy to feel overwhelmed, especially after stepping off of a long transpacific flight. So, take your time easing into the city and keep things low-key on your first day in the city.
• Use a Suica or Pasmo Card: These IC cards will allow you to pay for subway rides, public buses, shops, and even some restaurants.
• Download Google Maps & Google Translate: Having access to Google Maps (or Apple Maps) and Google Translate (with the offline Japanese language pack downloaded on your phone) will help you navigate the city, better understand signage, and translate menus. 
• Respect Local Etiquette: Do not forget to speak quietly on public transit, wait in line patiently, remove shoes when required, and do not eat while walking.
• Learn a Few Key Japanese Phrases: Learning a few phrases like arigatou gozaimasu (thank you) and sumimasen (excuse me) are small gestures that go a long way.
• Use Tabelog to Find Great Restaurants in Tokyo: Tabelog is the best way to find great restaurants in Japan. Just remember that any rating above a 3.5 is considered excellent! 
• Book Popular Attractions in Advance: Attractions like Shibuya Sky and teamLab Planets typically sell out in advance. To avoid missing out, book your tickets in advance, before you arrive in Tokyo. 
• Do Not Overpack Your Itinerary: Tokyo is best enjoyed with some flexibility to explore and get a little lost. Consider some of the alternative options I provided in this blog post to plan the itinerary that works best for you and your travel schedule! 
• Carry a Small Bag for Your Trash: Public trash cans are rare in Tokyo, so it is common to hold onto your garbage until you get back to your hotel. Having a small bag to place items you wish to discard is absolutely necessary. 
• Pack a Hand Towel: Many public bathrooms do not have paper towels or hand dryers, so it is common to bring your own. A small handkerchief, washcloth, or towel that you can easily fit in your pocket or purse, will come in handy during your time in Tokyo. 
• Remember Tokyo is Not One City, It's Many: Each neighborhood within Tokyo feels like its own mini-city with a totally different vibe. Embrace the contrasts and differences between them, they are what make Tokyo special.

Ready to discover Tokyo? 

With this first-timer-friendly Tokyo itinerary, you will get a thoughtful mix of cultural landmarks, iconic neighborhoods, unforgettable meals, and a few hidden gems, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Whether you are planning your dream trip months in advance or actively packing your bags, I hope this guide helps you experience the best of Tokyo with confidence.

Have questions about your itinerary, tips of your own, or favorite Tokyo spots I should check out on my next trip? Leave a comment below, I would love to hear from you!

And if you are continuing your journey through Japan, do not miss my travel guides to Osaka, Kyoto, and Everything You Need to Know About Buying Shinkansen Tickets in Japan to help you plan the rest of your time in this incredible country. Happy travels!