35° 40′ N, 139° 45′ E
Overview
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5 day Tokyo itinerary
Tokyo surprised us in so many ways. At first, we were a bit nervous because the city is huge, with more people than all of Belgium. We thought it would be overwhelming and too hectic, especially since we love nature and quiet places. But as soon as we arrived, we realized Tokyo is different.
Everything is well-organized, and the structured chaos just works. The people are disciplined, the streets are clean, and exploring the city felt surprisingly relaxing. We loved wandering through Tokyo and want to share our own trip with you. That is why we put together this 5-day Tokyo itinerary so you can enjoy the city just like we did and have a smooth and unforgettable trip.
We wrote this itinerary with sunset in mind, making sure you’ll be near some of the best spots to catch golden hour as you explore Tokyo. That said, you can easily switch things around based on the weather or what you feel like doing. If a clear day is coming up, it might be the perfect time for Tokyo Skytree or a Mount Fuji day trip. Rainy afternoon? Swap in some indoor spots like TeamLab Planets or Akihabara’s arcades. Tokyo is super flexible, so mix and match to make it your own!
Shibuya
On your first day in Tokyo, dive straight into the action in Shibuya, one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in the city. This area is packed with everything you imagine when you think of Tokyo: bright lights, giant screens, and buzzing streets. It is the perfect place to kick off this 5-day Tokyo itinerary.
Shibuya Crossing
The first thing you can do in Shibuya is cross the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing. This is the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, with up to 3,000 people walking in every direction at once. It looks chaotic, but somehow, it just flows. Step in, go with the crowd, and take it all in. It is one of those moments that makes you stop and think, wow, I am really in Tokyo.
Shibuya Sky
Now that you know what it feels like to cross the famous Shibuya Crossing, it is time to see it from above. Head to Shibuya Sky for a bird’s-eye view, not just of the crossing but of the entire city. And trust us, it is massive. Standing on the open-air rooftop, you really get a sense of just how huge Tokyo is, stretching endlessly in every direction.
If you plan your trip early enough, you can try to get tickets for sunset. Those sell out fast, but if you manage to get them, it is totally worth it. You can either mix up your day to end here at sunset or just do this itinerary in reverse. Either way, the view will blow you away.
Hotels
Find the best places to stay in Tokyo and enjoy a comfortable trip.
Takeshita Street
After enjoying the views at Shibuya Sky, head to Harajuku and walk through the lively Takeshita Street. This busy street is full of cool shops, fun fashion, and, most importantly, delicious food.
It is a great place for lunch. You can try crispy Japanese fried chicken, colorful cotton candy, or a famous Harajuku crepe filled with cream, fruit, and chocolate. There is so much to see and taste, so take your time, enjoy the food, and soak up the fun atmosphere.
Cat Street
In the afternoon, take a short walk from Takeshita Street to Cat Street. The name might make you think there are cats everywhere, but it has nothing to do with them. Instead, it is a relaxed shopping street with cool boutiques, trendy clothes, and unique local shops. Unlike the busy and colorful Takeshita Street, Cat Street feels much calmer and more stylish.
It is a great place to spend the afternoon exploring fashion and vintage shops. Even if you are not shopping, the quiet streets and cozy cafes make it a nice spot to walk around.
Latte Art Coffee Break
What’s better than resting your legs with a unique coffee? In Tokyo, some cafés take latte art to the next level by creating amazing 3D designs with milk foam. One of the best places to try this is Café Reissue.
There is often a waiting list, so head there early to put your name down. While you wait, you can explore more of the area instead of standing in line. If you do not feel like waiting, you can grab a takeaway 3D latte at Latté Pocket and keep going.
Meiji Jingu
After your coffee break, walk over to Meiji Shrine. It’s located inside a big forest and somehow stays quiet, even though it’s just a short walk from Harajuku’s busy streets.
The shrine was built for Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, who helped modernize Japan. You’ll see a huge torii gate at the entrance, and as you walk down the wide gravel path, the city noise fades away. It’s a great place to slow down and see a more traditional side of Tokyo.
If you have time, you can check out the Meiji Jingu Inner Garden. It’s a small, well-kept garden with a pond and beautiful seasonal flowers in spring and summer, and foliage colors in autumn. Note that there’s a ¥500 entrance fee for this part of the park.
Yoyogi Park
Before calling it a day, head over to Yoyogi Park, right next to the park in which the Meiji Shrine is located. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy day in Shibuya, right before sunset. There’s a huge open grass area, picnic benches, jogging trails, flower gardens, and even an aviary.
If you’re here during cherry blossom season, this place is amazing for hanami, which is the Japanese word for flower viewing. The park fills up with people enjoying the pink blooms, and the vibe is super lively.
On weekends, Yoyogi Park gets even more fun with street performers. You might see dancers, actors, or even Elvis impersonators like the ones we saw last time. Rock ‘n Roll baby!
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Shinjuku
Day 2 in Tokyo is all about Shinjuku, the Tokyo we’ve been picturing in our heads, with its glowing neon-lit streets, buzzing energy, and endless things to see. One moment you’re walking through a futuristic cityscape, the next you’re relaxing in a quiet park. It’s the perfect place to experience Tokyo’s wild energy while also finding little pockets of calm.
Nakano Broadway
Before diving into the buzz of Shinjuku, you can start your day at Nakano Broadway! It’s a bit further from the major sights in Shibuya, Shinjuku, and central Tokyo, but super easy to reach by metro. This place is a paradise for anime, manga, and retro toy fans. It’s also a great spot to shop for luxury watches, with stores selling rare and vintage timepieces at good prices.
You’ll find small, quirky shops full of rare items, old-school arcades, and tasty street snacks. The place to enjoy some nostalgic vibes and shopping before heading to the bright lights of Shinjuku!
Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
Hop back on the metro towards Shinjuku and head over to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, one of the prettiest gardens in Tokyo. It’s a nice break from the busy streets, with big open lawns, beautiful trees, and a mix of Japanese, English, and French-style gardens.
If you’re here during cherry blossom season or autumn, the views are amazing. Grab a bento or some onigiri from a nearby convenience store and have a relaxing lunch in the park to fuel up for a fun afternoon activity!
Go-Karting
If you have a valid driver’s license, you can take on the streets of Tokyo in a real-life go-karting adventure like Super Mario! This super fun activity lets you drive a go-kart through the city, passing by famous landmarks while dressed in fun costumes if you want. It’s a unique and exciting way to explore Tokyo, and you’ll definitely turn heads as you zip through the streets!
Important Note: Japan only accepts International Driving Permits (IDPs) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. If you’re from Belgium, France, Germany, Monaco, Switzerland, or Taiwan, your IDP is not valid in Japan. Instead, you’ll need to bring your original driver’s license along with an official Japanese translation, which you can get from the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF) or your country’s embassy/consulate in Japan. Make sure to sort this out before your trip so you can enjoy the ride hassle-free!
Tokyo Metropolitan Governemnt Building
For a stunning sunset view, get to the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Not only does it offer breathtaking panoramic views of the city, but it’s also completely free! On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance. The South Observatory is usually open later in the evening, making it a perfect spot to watch the city lights begin to twinkle.
Kabukicho
As soon as it gets dark, Kabukicho lights up with bright neon signs everywhere. This area, known as Tokyo’s biggest entertainment district, is packed with bars, restaurants, and late-night spots.
The whole place feels like the real Tokyo you see in movies, with colorful billboards, flashing lights, and a lively atmosphere. The must-see things are the famous giant 3D cat screen, and just nearby, there’s a huge Godzilla on top of a building that even roars sometimes.
Golden Gai and Omoide Yokocho
The most famous places for dinner in Shinjuku are Golden Gai or Omoide Yokocho. Golden Gai is a tiny area packed with little bars, each with its own unique vibe.
Some fit only a handful of people, making it a cool, cozy spot to grab a drink. Omoide Yokocho, also called ‘Memory Lane’ or ‘Piss Alley’ by locals, is all about narrow alleys, smoky yakitori grills, and that old-school Tokyo feel. The place to be if you’re looking for some traditional Japanese food experience.
Tokyo Tower, Imperial Palace and Koto
Day 3 is all about mixing old and new Tokyo. You can start with some classic sights, like the iconic Tokyo Tower and the historic Imperial Palace, before diving into the city’s modern side. By the end of the day, you’ll have seen everything from traditional landmarks to shopping and modern art.
Tokyo Tower
Rise and shine, it’s time to finally see the red Eiffel Tower emoji in real life! Yep, you read that right: that one emoji actually represents this iconic landmark, not the one in Paris. If you’re planning to snap a pic at the famous, not-so ‘Secret Tokyo Tower photo spot’, go as early as possible right after sunrise to skip the lines and get the perfect shot without the crowds.
If you’re still around at 9 AM, you can head up to one of the observation decks for panoramic views of Tokyo. A ticket to the main deck costs 1,500 yen, while a tour to the top deck is 3,500 yen.
Tsukiji Fish Market
From the Tokyo Tower, you can head to Tsukiji Outer Market, the spot for fresh seafood and a buzzing local vibe. The stalls are packed with sushi, sashimi, and grilled fish, with chefs and locals hunting for the best catch. The busiest streets, Tsukiji Nishi-dōri and Tsukiji Naka-dōri, are where all the action is. Try some oysters or BBQ seafood, but be ready for the strong fish smell. Get there before 10 AM to avoid the crowds and bring cash since some stalls don’t take cards. The market is closed on Sundays and Wednesdays.
A fun way to explore the fish Market is by joining a Tskukiji Fish Market tour including tasting and sometimes even making your own sushi!
Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace is home to Japan’s royal family and is one of the top places to visit in Tokyo. It sits in a huge park right in the middle of the city. To enter the palace itself, you’ll need to book a guided tour in advance, but the East Gardens are open to the public and free to visit.
These gardens, along with the remains of Edo Castle, are the main highlights of the area. For the best photos of the historic castle, you have to enter through the Nijubashi Bridge, one of the most famous spots on the palace grounds. It’s a peaceful place to explore before jumping back into Tokyo’s fast pace.
Ginza
After exploring Tsukiji Market, head over to Ginza, Tokyo’s best shopping area. You’ll find big stores like Uniqlo, fancy brand shops, and cool stationery stores. If you want a great place to explore, Ginza Six has designer shops, fun concept stores, and unique souvenirs. Even if you’re just looking, it’s a fun place to walk around.
Ginza is also a great spot for food. You’ll find some of Tokyo’s best sushi here, plus plenty of cafés and restaurants for a break.
Before you leave, go up to the rooftop garden for a peaceful break and one of the best free sunset views in the city!
Odaiba
Once the sun has set, make your way to Odaiba, a futuristic island packed with fun things to see and do. You can walk along the waterfront for stunning views of Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo’s skyline and visit the life-sized Gundam robot that actually moves. Odaiba has a totally different vibe from the rest of Tokyo, and it’s worth the trip for its mix of tech, entertainment, and seaside views.
TeamLab Planets
End your day with an unforgettable visit to Teamlab Planets, an immersive digital art museum where you walk through glowing water, mirrored rooms, and giant floating flowers. The exhibits make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world! Because it’s so Instagrammable, this spot is extremely popular, so make sure to book your tickets in advance as it sells out fast. We’ve planned this visit for the evening because it’s less crowded then, which makes the experience even more magical. It’s a tourist favorite, but it truly lives up to the hype!
Asakusa and Akihabara
The fourth day of this Tokyo itinerary starts in Asakusa, a district where old Tokyo comes to life. You can wander through historic streets, visit an ancient temple, and shop for typical Japanese gadgets. Watch the sunset from Tokyo Sky Tree and wrap up the night in Akihabara, the high-energy hub of anime, gaming, and tech.
SensoJi Tempel
Start the day at Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple. Walk through the massive red gate, past the giant lantern, and down Nakamise Street, where little stalls sell snacks and souvenirs. The temple itself is stunning and you can also explore the surrounding temples and shrines, like the Asakusa shrine.
Don Quijote
Just a short walk from Senso-ji, stop by Don Quijote, or “Donki,” the wildest, most chaotic store in Japan. Apparently, this one in Asakusa is the best one. It’s packed with everything: Japanese snacks, beauty products, anime merch, and some of the weirdest souvenirs you can find. Need last-minute gifts or a giant bag of Kit Kats (yes, we had one)? This is the place to be.
Kitchen Street
Next, walk on to Kitchen Street (Kappabashi), a paradise for anyone who loves cooking. You’ll find handcrafted Japanese knives, traditional ceramics, and those super-realistic plastic food models you see in restaurant windows. Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, it’s fun to explore and see all the quirky kitchen gadgets.
Tokyo Sky Tree
Time to go up and get another bird’s-eye view of Tokyo. With its 634 meters is the Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan. The views from the top are unreal, stretching across the entire city, and on a clear day, you can even spot Mount Fuji in the distance. There are two observation decks: the Tembo Deck at 350 meters and the Tembo Galleria at 450 meters, which has a glass floor for an extra thrilling experience.
If you visit around sunset, you get the best of both worlds. You can take in the city during daylight, then watch how the lights of Tokyo light up. Since Skytree is one of Tokyo’s most popular attractions, tickets can sell out, especially on weekends and holidays. You can buy them on the day, but it’s worth booking in advance to skip long lines. If you want to save money, getting a ticket just for the lower deck is a good option, but if you’re all about the views, the extra height is worth it.
Akihabara Electric Town
You can wrap up the day in Akihabara, Tokyo’s anime, gaming, and tech hub. This area is filled with neon lights, arcades, and shops packed with manga, retro games, and collectibles. Try a claw machine or battle it out in a drum game (Sarah won!).
Akihabara is also known for its electronic shops that have everything from cameras to gaming gear. Many stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists on purchases over 5,000 yen, the perfect opportunity to get a new mobile phone or camera at a great price.
Day Trip to Mt. Fuji
Japan’s most famous mountain is just a couple of hours away and makes for an epic day trip. That’s why we’d say a trip to Tokyo wouldn’t be complete without a glimpse of Mt. Fuji. You can take a bus, train, or organized day trip to the Fuji Five Lakes area, where you’ll get some of the best views of the mountain, or visit Hakone, a scenic hot spring town with lake cruises and cable cars. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, rent a bike or take a short hike for an even better view.
Note: It’s important to note that Fuji can be a little shy. Clouds often cover the peak, so check the weather forecast or even the live webcams before heading out. If the view isn’t looking great, consider other day trips like Nikko for stunning temples or Kamakura for a giant Buddha and a chill beach town vibe.
How to get around
Metro: The easiest way to get around Tokyo is by metro. It’s fast, reliable, and covers most areas. You can use Google Maps for directions as they are quite accurate, and you’ll find signs in English at most stations.
Note: You can buy metro tickets at the stations, but keep in mind there are two different operators: Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines. Tickets bought locally are usually valid for only one of these operators, so it’s important to check which lines you need in advance. However, tourists can purchase a Tokyo Subway Ticket online, which is valid for both operators and offers options for 24, 48, or 72 hours. We highly recommend buying this ticket online for convenience.
Walking: Tokyo is a very pedestrian-friendly city, so walking is a great option when places are close. Just keep in mind that Tokyo is large, and distances can feel longer than they seem.
Uber: Uber is a fast and convenient option and can help avoid language barriers. The app automatically inputs your destination, and the drivers are friendly and professional. You’ll know the price immediately when booking, though it can be slightly more expensive.
Taxis: You can flag down a taxi or ask your hotel to call one for you. But Uber is often easier and more convenient.
Where to stay in Tokyo
As the largest city in the world, it can be overwhelming to find the best places to stay in Tokyo. Shinjuku and Shibuya are great areas to stay in if it’s your first time in Tokyo. Shinjuku is lively and central, making it easy to get around and access many attractions. Shibuya, with its energetic vibe, is also close to a lot of things to do and has excellent transport connections.
We stayed at Hotel Groove, and it’s a fantastic place to stay. Its location is perfect, almost in between both Shinjuku and Shibuya, which makes getting around the city incredibly convenient. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, great service, and a very welcoming atmosphere. One of the highlights of staying at Hotel Groove is the stunning views from the rooms!
Hotels
Find the best places to stay in Tokyo and enjoy a comfortable trip.
Other areas like Asakusa, Ginza, Akihabara, and Roppongi also have their unique vibes, and we highly recommend them as they are well-connected to public transport, making it easy to reach many of the city’s highlights. You’ll also find some of the best accommodations in these districts.
When choosing a place to stay, it’s best to find a hotel close to a metro station to make getting around Tokyo as easy as possible.
How to get to Tokyo
Japan has two major airports, Narita and Haneda. Haneda Airport is closer to the city center, just a 30-minute ride, while Narita is about an hour away but is the more popular airport for international flights. You can easily take a train, bus, or taxi from either airport to get into Tokyo.
We can highly recommend flying to Japan with ANA (All Nippon Airways) for a comfortable and smooth journey. ANA offers flights to Japan from major cities around the world, including Brussels, New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Singapore. It’s a great way to start your trip with great food and excellent service!
If you’re already in Japan, the best way to travel around and reach Tokyo is by train. The Shinkansen is fast and connects major cities like Tokyo and Osaka in just a few hours. You can buy a Japan Railway Pass for unlimited travel on most trains for 7, 14, or 21 days.
For a more affordable option, buses are a cheaper but slower alternative. For example, the bus from Osaka to Tokyo takes about 8-9 hours, while the Shinkansen only takes 2 hours. If you have the time, buses are a comfortable and budget-friendly choice.
Best time to visit Tokyo
The best time to visit Tokyo is during Spring (March to April) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating a stunning sight. However, it’s also the busiest time, so expect higher prices and demand for accommodation. Fall (October to November) is a great alternative, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. You’ll still see the beautiful fall foliage, and it’s slightly less expensive than Spring.
If you’re looking for a quieter time, Winter (December to February) offers dry, sunny weather but colder temperatures. Avoid visiting during Typhoon season (June to September), as it’s hot, humid, and rainy.
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Win-Win for everyone
Did you know that, if you buy or book something through our links, we receive a small commission?
However, you still pay the same and therefore have no extra costs! So a win-win for everyone. This way, we can continue to add even more travel inspiration and tips to this blog for your next adventure. Thanks a lot!
