Tokyo Travel Guide

Q: When is the best time to visit Tokyo?

Late March to early April for cherry blossoms and late October to late November for autumn foliage. Summer is hot but festive, winter is crisp with clear views and lower hotel prices outside New Year.

Q: How many days do I need in Tokyo?

Plan 4 to 6 days for first visits to cover Asakusa, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and two observation decks. Add 2 to 4 extra days for day trips, Disney, or deeper museum time.

Q: Is Tokyo safe for solo travelers?

Yes. Tokyo is very safe. Keep valuables secure, avoid the most crowded last trains on weekend nights, and save emergency numbers 110 (police) and 119 (ambulance, fire).

Q: What is the best area to stay in Tokyo?

Choose Shinjuku for transit convenience, Shibuya for nightlife, Nihonbashi for quiet central stays, or Asakusa for historic charm and slower evenings.

Q: How do I get around Tokyo without a car?

Use an IC card like Welcome Suica for JR and subways. When riding subways intensively, buy the 24, 48, or 72 hour Tokyo Subway Ticket for unlimited Metro and Toei rides.

Q: How do I get Ghibli Museum tickets?

Tickets release at 10:00 Japan time on the 10th for the following month via Lawson Ticket. You must pick a date and time. Create your account in advance and book fast.

Q: What are typical costs for observation decks?

Expect around ¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky with timed entry. Tokyo Skytree costs from about ¥2,100 for the Tembo Deck and about ¥3,100 for the Deck plus Galleria, with online prices sometimes lower.

Q: Is tap water safe and do I need to tip?

Tap water is safe citywide. Tipping is not customary in Japan. A polite thank you is appreciated, and service charges may be included at high end venues.

Q: What foods should I try in Tokyo?

Try Edomae sushi, ramen, tempura, yakitori, wagashi sweets, and kissaten coffee. Asakusa, Ginza, and Shibuya offer excellent beginner routes with many options close together.

Q: Can I see the Toyosu tuna auction?

Yes. Observation windows are free and open early. A lottery system grants limited access to a closer deck. Arrive before 5:15, watch from about 5:30 to 6:15, and enjoy sushi afterwards.

In Tokyo, Japan, ancient shrines rest in the shadow of glass towers, and every neighborhood feels like a world of its own. The scent of street-side yakitori drifts past neon reflections, while monks chant beneath towering gingko trees. Here, precision meets play, from the calm of Meiji Jingu to the pulse of Shibuya Crossing. Whether you come for art, food, or quiet gardens, Tokyo unfolds as a city of endless contrasts that rewards those who explore with open eyes and an unhurried heart.

Quick Facts: Tokyo, Japan

Best forCouples, families, food lovers, pop culture fans, design and architecture, night views
Time ZoneJapan Standard Time, UTC+9
Nearby DestinationsKamakura, Hakone, Nikko, Kawagoe, Yokohama

Best TimeLate March to mid April for cherry blossoms, late October to late November for autumn leaves
Average TemperatureWinter 2–10°C, Spring 8–20°C, Summer 22–33°C with humidity, Autumn 10–22°C

Geography & LandscapeBayfront city of islands and rivers, a mosaic of villages that grew together, framed by the Sumida and Arakawa rivers

Languages SpokenJapanese. English is common at hotels and major sights. Learn hello “konnichiwa,” thank you “arigatou,” excuse me “sumimasen.”

CurrencyJapanese Yen (JPY)
Cash or Card?Cards widely accepted, but carry some cash for small eateries and shrines. ATMs at 7-Eleven and post offices work with foreign cards.

Getting AroundJR Yamanote loop, Tokyo Metro and Toei subways, buses, taxis, and extensive pedestrian areas. Tap with Welcome Suica or PASMO.

Must-TryMorning at Toyosu Market, ramen in a counter shop, sunset from Shibuya Sky, an onsen soak after sightseeing

Local VibePolite and hyper efficient, yet playful and creative. Quiet trains, lively alleyways.

Top HighlightSenso-ji in Asakusa, Meiji Jingu’s forest, and city views from Tokyo Skytree or Shibuya Sky

🔥 Pro Tip: Pick up a Welcome Suica at the airport or issue a digital Welcome Suica on iPhone. No deposit, easy top ups, and it works for trains, buses, and convenience stores.

Destination Overview

Why Visit Tokyo?

Tokyo blends ancient ritual with neon creativity. One moment you are under lanterns at Senso-ji, the next you are watching the city unfurl from a rooftop 230 meters up. Food is a revelation from standing sushi to kaiseki. Neighborhoods feel like small towns with strong identities, and transport makes it simple to cross the whole city in minutes. Safety, cleanliness, and courtesy make exploring stress free.

Best Time to Visit Tokyo

Spring – Cherry blossoms late March to early April, mild 10–18°C, popular and busy. Book hotels and timed tickets early.
Summer – Hot and humid 28–33°C, lively festivals and fireworks. Hydrate, plan air conditioned breaks, and tour early or late.
Autumn – Comfortable 14–22°C and vivid foliage late October to late November. Clear skies mean great city views.
Winter – 2–10°C, crisp air, illuminations, lower hotel prices except New Year holidays. Mt Fuji views are often sharp.

Travel Difficulty & Ideal Duration

Difficulty: Easy for most travelers, signage is bilingual and systems are logical.

Recommended: 4 to 6 days for first timers, 7 to 10 days if including day trips or Disney. The city is accessible with elevators and barrier free routes at major stations.

💡 Insider Insight: Book timed entries like Ghibli Museum, teamLab, and Shibuya Sky two weeks to one month ahead. For Skytree, evenings after 19:00 offer shorter lines and glittering views.

Essential Travel Information

Visa & Entry

Many nationalities enter visa free for short stays. Always confirm current policy and entry steps on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs site. See official visa guidance. Fingerprints and a photo are taken on arrival in Japan.

Money & Realistic Daily Costs

Budget: ¥7,000–12,000 per day (hostel or business hotel, two casual meals, IC transit, one paid sight)
Mid-range: ¥18,000–35,000 per day (3 to 4 star hotel, cafés and mid tier restaurants, two attractions)
Luxury: ¥45,000–100,000+ per day (5 star hotel, tasting menus, private tours or transfers)

Language & Communication

Download offline maps and a translation app. Pocket Wi-Fi or a local eSIM keeps you connected. Politeness carries you far. A simple “sumimasen” opens doors, and a nod with a smile is universal.

Getting There & Around

Air, Rail, Bus: Narita and Haneda airports serve Tokyo. From Narita, ride the Narita Express or the faster Keisei Skyliner. From Haneda, the Tokyo Monorail reaches Hamamatsucho in about 13 minutes.

Local transport: Use an IC card like Welcome Suica. For heavy subway days, the Tokyo Subway Ticket offers unlimited rides for 24, 48, or 72 hours at great value.

🔥 Pro Tip: The Tokyo Subway Ticket is ¥800, ¥1,200, or ¥1,500 for 24, 48, or 72 hours and covers Tokyo Metro and Toei subways. Activate it right before a big sightseeing block to maximize value.

Top Things to Do in Tokyo

Must-See Landmarks & Cultural Sites

Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa
Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032
Admission and timing: Grounds always open, main hall roughly 6:00–17:00 depending on season, free
Best visiting time: Early morning before 8:00 for a quiet Nakamise shopping street
Tokyo’s oldest temple pairs incense, vermilion gates, and a lively market street.
Meiji Jingu
Admission and timing: Shrine grounds open sunrise to sunset, free
Best visiting time: Early morning for birdsong in the forest, or weekend afternoons for weddings
A tranquil Shinto shrine in a 70 hectare forest beside Harajuku.
Tokyo Skytree
Address: 1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045
Admission and timing: Tembo Deck from ~¥2,100, combo with Tembo Galleria from ~¥3,100, typically 10:00–21:00 with seasonal variations. Book online for lower prices.
Best visiting time: Clear winter mornings or after 19:00 for night views
Japan’s tallest structure with 360 degree panoramas and a huge mall below.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Address: 11 Naito-machi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0014
Admission and timing: ¥500 adults, 9:00–16:00 entry, closed Mondays except peak seasons
Best visiting time: Midweek mornings in cherry blossom or autumn foliage seasons
A serene blend of Japanese, French, and English landscapes near Shinjuku’s towers.
Imperial Palace East Gardens
Admission and timing: Free, typically closed Mondays and Fridays, hours vary by season
Best visiting time: Late morning for stone walls and seasonal flowers
Wander moats and ruins where Edo Castle once stood.
Tokyo National Museum
Address: 13-9 Ueno Park, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8712
Admission and timing: From about ¥1,000, typically 9:30–17:00, closed Mondays
Best visiting time: Weekdays for quieter galleries
The country’s largest collection of art and archaeology in leafy Ueno Park.
teamLab Borderless, Azabudai Hills
Admission and timing: Timed entry with dynamic hours. Reserve in advance. Prices vary by date, commonly around ¥4,800.
Best visiting time: Evenings for fewer families and richer colors
A moving digital art world where rooms connect and artworks roam.
Nezu Shrine
Address: 1-28-9 Nezu, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 113-0031
Admission and timing: Grounds free, garden fees during azalea season
Best visiting time: Late April for azaleas, or golden hour for a torii tunnel glow
A historic shrine with a photogenic walkway of scarlet gates.

Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

Yanaka Ginza – Retro shopping street with croquettes and cat motifs. Reach from Nippori Station, visit near sunset when lanterns flicker.
Gotokuji Temple – Cat figurines everywhere and quiet temple grounds in Setagaya. Go early on weekdays.
Kiyosumi Gardens – Stroll a classic daimyo garden with stepping stones and koi, a calm counterpoint to nearby modern cafés.
Shimokitazawa – Vintage shops, live houses, and slow coffee culture. Explore car free lanes around the station.
Fukagawa Fudoson – Fire ritual goma ceremonies with taiko drums, an intense spiritual experience.
Omoide Yokocho – Shinjuku’s tiny yakitori alley of smoke and chatter. Arrive before 18:00 to grab a seat.

Unique Experiences You Can’t Miss

Watch the tuna auction at Toyosu Market from free observation windows or apply for the limited lottery deck. Arrive by 5:15. Breakfast sushi after. Cost: free to observe, sushi from ¥1,200–3,000.
Tea ceremony at Happo-en, white kimono tea house and garden. 30–45 minutes, about ¥3,000–4,000 with matcha and sweets. Book 3–7 days ahead.
Shibuya Sky observation deck, glass edge photos and rooftop field. Timed tickets from around ¥2,200. Reserve about two weeks prior.
Sumida River yakatabune cruise with tempura dinner and city lights. 2.5 hours, typically ¥10,000–13,000 per adult. Reserve 1–2 weeks out.
Ramen tasting crawl in Ikebukuro or Nakameguro. Two or three bowls split between friends, budget ¥1,000 per bowl.
Kimono rental in Asakusa with simple dressing lesson and temple photos. 2–3 hours, around ¥3,500–5,500.

Best Photo Spots

Shibuya Crossing from Magnet by Shibuya 109 rooftop terrace, look for the “Crossing View” deck.
Tokyo Tower framed by Keyakizaka Street in Roppongi during winter illuminations.
Asakusa Kaminarimon lantern at dawn before crowds arrive.
Meguro River cherry blossoms near Naka-Meguro Station at blue hour.
Nezu Shrine torii path with soft side light in late afternoon.
Odaiba seaside park for rainbow reflections of the skyline at night.

✨ Local Secret: At Senso-ji, slip behind the main hall to the quieter Asakusa Shrine. For Skytree, pick a late entry slot after 19:30, then dine in Solamachi when queues fade.

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Best Areas or Neighborhoods

Shinjuku – Major transport hub, nightlife, and skyscraper views. Great for first timers who want convenience. Can be busy late.
Shibuya – Youthful energy, dining, shopping, and easy links to west Tokyo. Ideal for couples and friends.
Asakusa – Historic atmosphere near Senso-ji, slower pace at night, great for tradition seekers.
Ginza – Elegant shopping streets and fine dining. Calm in the evenings. Close to Tsukiji Outer Market.
Nihonbashi – Central, refined, and well connected. Suits business and families wanting quieter nights.
Roppongi/Akasaka – Museums and nightlife with quick airport access via Monorail or Hibiya Line connections.
Odaiba – Waterfront views and space. Excellent for families, easy parking, and leisure complexes.

Budget Traveler Picks

UNPLAN Kagurazaka – 23-1 Tenjincho, Shinjuku City • ¥3,500–8,000
IMANO Tokyo Shinjuku Hostel – 5-12-2 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City • ¥4,000–10,000
SAKURA HOUSE & HOSTEL options – Various addresses • ¥3,500–9,000
K’s House Tokyo Oasis – 14-10, Asakusa 2-chome, Taito City • ¥4,000–9,000
&AND HOSTEL Asakusa – 1-17-5 Asakusa, Taito City • ¥3,000–8,000

Mid-Range Favorites

Hotel Niwa Tokyo – 1-1-16 Misakicho, Chiyoda City • ¥18,000–32,000
Mitsui Garden Hotel Jingugaien Tokyo Premier – 11-3 Kasumigaokamachi, Shinjuku City • ¥16,000–28,000
Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu – 3-21-3 Shibuya, Shibuya City • ¥20,000–35,000
Shinjuku Granbell Hotel – 2-14-5 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City • ¥12,000–24,000
The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon – 2-16-11 Kaminarimon, Taito City • ¥18,000–32,000

Luxury Stays

Palace Hotel Tokyo – 1-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda City • ¥70,000–140,000+
Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo – 2-1-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo City • ¥80,000–160,000+
The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo – Tokyo Midtown, 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato City • ¥85,000–170,000+
Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills – 1-23-4 Toranomon, Minato City • ¥65,000–120,000+
HOSHINOYA Tokyo – 1-9-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda City • ¥80,000–150,000+

Family-Friendly

Mitsui Garden Hotel Nihonbashi Premier – Larger rooms, calm area, direct subway links.
Day trip add-on: SHIROIYA Hotel (Maebashi) – Design sleep after a day out, for architecture lovers.
Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba – 2-6-1 Daiba, Minato City • Bay views, close to teamLab Planets route.
Tokyu Stay brands – Rooms with washers in Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ginza.
Asakusa Tobu Hotel – 1-1-15 Asakusa, Taito City • Next to the Tobu station for Nikko day trips.

Alternative Stays

Capsule Inn – Classic capsule hotel experience, central locations.
MUJI HOTEL GINZA – Design minimalism over a curated store.
9h nine hours – Futuristic capsule stays across the city.
Design forward boutique options – For travelers chasing aesthetics.

🔥 Pro Tip: Rates dip Sunday to Thursday outside cherry blossom and autumn foliage. In Shinjuku or Shibuya, choose hotels west or south of the main station for quieter nights.

What & Where to Eat in Tokyo

Must-Try Dishes

Edomae Sushi – Seasonal fish treated with vinegared rice, try at a standing bar for value. Expect ¥1,200–3,000 for a light set lunch.
Tonkotsu or Shoyu Ramen – Rich pork or soy broth with springy noodles, ¥900–1,400 per bowl.
Tempura – Lightly battered seafood and vegetables fried in sesame oil, lunch sets ¥1,500–3,500.
Monjayaki – Kanto’s messy cousin to okonomiyaki, cooked on a griddle in Tsukishima. Around ¥900–1,500 per portion.
Katsu sando – Panko pork cutlet sandwich in bakeries and cafés, ¥600–1,000.
Soba – Buckwheat noodles served cold with dip or hot in broth, ¥700–1,200.

Restaurants & Cafés

Budget Eats – Ichiran Ramen Shibuya, 1-22-7 Jinnan, Shibuya City • ¥980–1,200; Tsukiji Outer Market stalls for tamagoyaki and seafood skewers, ¥300–1,000.
Mid Range – Tempura Kondo Ginza, 5-5-13 Ginza, Chuo City • lunch from around ¥5,000; AFURI Harajuku shop for yuzu shio ramen, about ¥1,180.
Sushi Bars – Umegaoka Sushi no Midori Ginza Branch, 7-108 Ginza, Chuo City • generous cuts from ¥2,000; Uogashi Nihon-Ichi standing sushi, multiple locations, sets from ¥1,000.
Coffee – Blue Bottle Kiyosumi, 1-4-8 Hirano, Koto City; KOFFEE MAMEYA in Omotesando, beans and slow brews.
Vegan & Halal – T’s Tantan Tokyo Station Keiyo Street for vegan ramen, around ¥980–1,180; SUSHIKEN Asakusa Halal, sets from ¥2,000.
Department Store Eats – Isetan Shinjuku Depachika for bento and sweets to picnic in Shinjuku Gyoen.

Street Food & Dietary Tips

Search for skewers, taiyaki, and seafood at Tsukiji Outer Market from 8:00 to noon for the freshest turnover.
Gluten free diners can focus on sushi, yakitori with salt seasoning, and rice bowls. Confirm soy sauce ingredients.
Vegan ramen and temple shojin meals are growing. T’s Tantan and AIN SOPH series are reliable places to start.
Tap water is safe. Ice is standard. Ask for “mizu” for water at eateries.
No tipping culture. Thank staff with “gochisosama deshita” when leaving.

💡 Insider Insight: Popular shops use online queues or timed tickets. Many ramen counters sell tickets at vending machines near the entrance. Break big bills before you join the line.

Local Culture & Etiquette

Norms – Keep your voice low on trains, queue on the platform, and remove hats in shrines if asked. Shoes off at homes and some restaurants.
Do’s & Don’ts – Do carry trash until you find a bin. Do not walk and eat in crowded streets. Photograph people only with permission.
Tipping – Not customary. If you insist, it can be awkward. A sincere thank you is best.
Festivals & Events – Early January hatsumode shrine visits, late January sumo tournament in Ryogoku, late July Sumida River fireworks, November Shichi-Go-San.

Practical Tips & Safety

Health & Safety – Tokyo is very safe. For emergencies dial 110 for police, 119 for ambulance or fire. Large hospitals include St Luke’s and University of Tokyo Hospital.
What to Pack – Light layers, compact umbrella in rainy season, a scarf for temple shoulders, and comfortable walking shoes.
Money Saving – Use the Tokyo Subway Ticket on heavy metro days and free observation decks like the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku.
Emergency Phrases – Help “tasukete,” hospital “byouin,” where is “doko desu ka,” thank you “arigatou,” sorry “sumimasen.”

✅ Responsible Travel: Support small family eateries, follow photography rules in shrines, stay on marked paths in gardens, and bring a reusable bottle. Many stations have bottle fillers.

Tokyo Itineraries

3-Day Express Itinerary

Day 1 – Asakusa and Ueno: Senso-ji at dawn, breakfast in Nakamise side streets, Tokyo National Museum, Ameya-Yokocho snacks. Evening yakitori in Ueno or return to Sumida River for views.
Day 2 – Meiji Jingu to Shibuya: Forest walk, Takeshita Street browse, Omotesando architecture, Shibuya Sky at sunset, dinner in Nonbei Yokocho or Hikarie eateries.
Day 3 – Skytree or Toyosu: Morning Skytree views or Toyosu tuna observation then sushi brunch. Afternoon in Nihonbashi and Ginza. Finish at Odaiba’s bayside lights.

7-Day Comprehensive Itinerary

Day 1 – Asakusa, Sumida, river cruise to Hamarikyu gardens, tea house stop.
Day 2 – Meiji Jingu, Harajuku, Omotesando, Shibuya night photography.
Day 3 – Ueno museums, Yanaka stroll, craft shops, old cafés.
Day 4 – Odaiba and teamLab Planets, dinner with a skyline view.
Day 5 – Skytree and Solamachi shopping, Sumida Aquarium, evening in Asakusa.
Day 6 – Day trip to Kamakura or Nikko. Return for ramen crawl in Ikebukuro.
Day 7 – Ginza galleries, Nihonbashi history, final souvenirs at depachika.

Off the Beaten Path Route

Loop through Kiyosumi Gardens, coffee at Blue Bottle Kiyosumi, walk the Fukagawa canal to Tomioka Hachiman Shrine, cross to Tsukishima for monjayaki lunch, finish in Kagurazaka’s alleys at dusk. Use the Oedo and Yurakucho lines with short walks between stops.

🔥 Pro Tip: Group sights by subway line to cut transfers. For example, Meiji Jingu, Omotesando, and Shibuya align along the JR and Ginza lines, perfect for one continuous day.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Tokyo?

Late March to early April for blossoms and late October to late November for foliage. Summer brings festivals and heat, winter is crisp with clear views and lower prices outside New Year.

How many days do I need in Tokyo?

First timers do well with 4 to 6 days for core neighborhoods and two paid viewpoints. Add 2 to 4 days for day trips or Disney, or if you want museum deep dives and slower mornings.

Is Tokyo safe for solo travelers?

Yes, it is one of the world’s safest capitals. Keep valuables zipped, avoid very late last trains on weekends, and save emergency numbers 110 and 119 in your phone.

What is the best area to stay in Tokyo?

Shinjuku for transport convenience, Shibuya for nightlife and youthful energy, Nihonbashi or Asakusa for calmer nights and classic streets.

How do I get around Tokyo without a car?

Tap an IC card like Welcome Suica, then ride JR and subways. For heavy subway days buy the Tokyo Subway Ticket for 24, 48, or 72 hours of unlimited Metro and Toei rides.

How do I get Ghibli Museum tickets?

Tickets release at 10:00 JST on the 10th of each month for the following month via Lawson Ticket. Choose a specific date and time. They sell out fast, set reminders and create an account in advance.

What are typical costs for observation decks?

Shibuya Sky around ¥2,200 with timed entry. Tokyo Skytree from about ¥2,100 for the Tembo Deck and about ¥3,100 for the Deck plus Galleria. Online prices can be lower than same day.

Is tap water safe and do I need to tip?

Tap water is safe across the city. Tipping is not customary in Japan. Service charges appear in high end venues, but handing cash tips is uncommon.

What foods should I try in Tokyo?

Edomae sushi, ramen, tempura, yakitori, wagashi sweets, and kissaten coffee culture. Start in Asakusa, Ginza, and Shibuya for a broad range in a short radius.

Can I see the Toyosu tuna auction?

Yes. Free upper observation windows open early, and a lottery system controls access to a limited closer deck. Arrive by 5:15, watch 5:30–6:15, then eat sushi nearby.

Don’t Miss

Dawn incense at Senso-ji followed by a hot, sweet taiyaki on Nakamise side streets.
Shibuya Sky at sunset as the city lights pierce the blue hour.
A quiet tea in Hamarikyu’s Nakajima-no-ochaya after a river cruise.
Depachika picnic from Isetan or Mitsukoshi and a bench in Shinjuku Gyoen.
An evening yakatabune cruise with tempura as Rainbow Bridge glows.

Your Tokyo Story Starts Here

Tokyo invites you to slow down in a fast city. Trace lantern light to an ancient temple, ride a train that arrives to the minute, taste soup that took hours to perfect, then step onto a rooftop where all of it shines below. Pick your season, choose a neighborhood that feels like you, reserve a few timed tickets, and let curiosity thread your days together. Your first visit will not be your last, and that is part of Tokyo’s magic.