The perfect 3 days in Tokyo, Japan: Full itinerary

Front view of Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo, with its iconic red gate and a crowd of visitors gathered at the entrance

Tokyo is a fantastic city, with so much to see and do there really is something for everybody. I found the main challenge is prioritising your time, especially if that is limited. This is where I come in, I will help you plan the perfect Tokyo itinerary in 3 days.

My focus is on maximising what’s important to you and ensuring you get to experience a bit of everything in the city. I have been lucky enough to spend 6 days in Tokyo on my recent longer trip to Japan, however most people I speak to have less. I’m going to distil all my experience into my shorter Tokyo 3 day itinerary, whilst giving you some optional activates to swap in, based on your taste! 

I remember the overwhelming feeling when I was planning for my first time visiting Tokyo, it’s natural, but unecessary, Tokyo is very easy to visit and get around. I’m going to cover my favourite sights, some key tips for first time visitors to make things easier, where to stay to maximise your time exploring and not commuting and some of the must try restaurants for your trip, including some that really surprised me!

Key Tips and what to expect for first timers Travelling to Tokyo 

  • Efficient Public Transport: Tokyo’s public transport is extensive, it also completely lives up to the stereotype of being punctual with precision! In my opinion it is very much the best way to explore the city. TOP TIP! Get a virtual Suica or Passmo card in your Apple wallet, you can top up from any bank card and simply tap on all public transport. This makes transport a lot easier. If you do not have an iPhone, you can get a physical card from airports and main JR train stations when you arrive.
  • Cash and Card Usage: We paid on card for 90% of our trip, using our Revolut cards to avoid fees. That being said, some smaller shops, restaurants and street food vendors prefer cash, so I would recommend carrying some and checking before you sit down. TOP TIP! ATMs are widely available, we used 7/11’s as their machines gave the best rates and lowest fees, there’s alos loads of them!
  • Language Considerations: We had been told by some people that the language barrier is a big problem, this was not our experience, especially in Tokyo. English signage is common in major areas and people were very open to help us. Google translate is an absolute must, both for speaking and reading any useful documents/signs. As with any country learning basic Japanese phrases is a nice touch and people clearly appreciated us trying.
  • Cultural Etiquette: Respecting local customs is something you hear in every country you travel to, this is more pronounced in Japan and was something I was very aware of during our time there. I always advise everyone going to brush up on it. Simple things you may not be aware of, like not walking and eating and when to remove your shoes. I have written about the key cultural etiquette points you may not be aware of, so you can avoid any faux pas.
  • Connectivity: We were very reliant on our phones in Japan, with Google maps and Google translate helping us survive. Staying connected is easy, even on the Shinkansen. You have three main options to choose from; pocket Wi-Fi hubs, physical SIM cards or eSIMs. Read about the pros and cons of each and make your own decision. TOP TIP! We used eSIMs and would be one of my top travel tips, they were easy to set up before we left home, cheaper than pocket WiFi and didn’t let us down once. Use this discount code for 15% off NEWTOAIRALO15

Disclaimer: This article features affiliate links. If you click these links, and choose to book with that hotel or company, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I appreciate the support that allows me to continue providing this information

At a Glance: Tokyo 3-Day Itinerary

Tokyo Day 1: Shinjuku – Parks, the city and meeting the locals

  • Morning: Visit Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
  • Afternoon: Explore Shinjuku’s main areas, the iconic 3D cat billboard, see Godzilla. Optional visit to SOMPO Museum and the Tokyo Metropolitan government building
  • Evening: Experience street food and nightlife in Golden Gai and Omoide Yokocho.

Day 2: Shibuya scramble and trendy Harajuku

  • Morning: The famous Shibuya Crossing and Shibuya Sky.
  • Afternoon: Join a Real-Life Mario Kart Tour, visit Meiji Jingu Shrine and Takeshita Street. Optional stop at Neze Museum.
  • Evening: Stroll along Omote-sando and dinner in the area of at Tokyu Plaza Harajuku Harakado

Day 3: Asakusa’s culture and Sky-High Views

  • Morning: Explore Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Street. Viewing deck over Senso-ji from Asakusa Culture and Tourism Centre
  • Afternoon: Walk along the Sumida River to Tokyo Skytree. Optional river cruise
  • Evening: Asakusa Yokocho and Sumida park

Where to Stay on your 3 day Tokyo trip

a luxury hotel room with a stunning panoramic view of the Tokyo skyline. The room features a large, comfortable bed, a sitting area with plush chairs and a round table, and floor-to-ceiling windows that provide an unobstructed view of the city below. The lighting in the room is warm and inviting, creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Overall, the image conveys a sense of high-end luxury and sophistication. Copy Retry
Source: Booking.com

With only 3 days in Tokyo, getting this right is very important. You will want to maximise your time, reduce travelling and have a nice base to come back to after an action packed day. I have written in detail about the best areas and hotels in Tokyo.

If you are a family, you will likely have slightly different priorities and I have focused on the best family hotels, featuring crucial items like washing machines, connecting rooms and services to keep the kids entertained!

If you don’t have time to read my detailed guide above, below is a snapshot of the 3 areas I would recommend for first time Tokyo visitors. They maximise exploring time, have good transport links and plenty to see day and night. If you’re doing 20k+ steps a day, you want to make them count 

AreaProsCons
Shinjuku– Interesting neighbourhood with both traditional and modern areas
– Exceptional transport links
– Varied accommodation options, both style and cost
– Some of the best nightlife and restaurants
– Can feel overwhelming if you are not used to a big city
– More expensive than some less central areas
– Can be noisy if you pick the wrong hotel
Shibuya– Younger area with excellent shopping and dining
– Outstanding public transport connections
– A more trendy feel as a neighbourhood
– Accommodation is more expensive
– Similarly busy to Shinjuku both in terms of noise and people
– Limited cultural sights 
Asakusa– Lots of traditional Japanese culture, including Senso-ji Temple
– More relaxed atmosphere
– More affordable accommodation
– Less convenient public transport
– Limited nightlife and less modern entertainment options
– Less appealing to younger travellers

How to get to Tokyo

International travellers arriving in Tokyo have two airport options: Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND). Both are well connected to Tokyo.

Narita International Airport 

60 kilometres east of Tokyo’s centre, Narita is the main international gateway for most countries. It offers several ways to reach the city, including the Narita Express, comfortable limousine buses, and private hire taxis. The airport itself has everything you would expect from a big international hubs, with a good selection of restaurants, shops and luggage forwarding services. You can pick up a sim card or Suica/Passmo when you arrive too.

Haneda Airport 

located significantly closer to central Tokyo. While historically focused on domestic flights, it has expanded its international terminal. This makes Haneda an attractive option for international arrivals. Passengers can take the Tokyo Monorail, Keikyu Line, and various bus services to get into central Tokyo faster.

TOP TIP! Pick the flight time and cost that work best for you before the airport itself. I know Narita is further out, but it is not much hassle to travel in from there. Cost and flight convenience is my biggest recommendation! If they are both the same price/time, then I would definitely choose Haneda.

Both Haneda and Narita have a lot of hotel options with free shuttle buses if you are arriving particularly late into the country

Tokyo Day 1: Exploring Shinjuku

Picturesque scene of a traditional Japanese pavilion surrounded by greenery and a tranquil pond at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden in Tokyo
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Morning: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

We arrived after a long flight from the UK and decided to start the first day in Japan with some fresh air to clear our weary heads. I am going to reccoment you do the same, with a visit to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a beautiful park in the heart of Shinjuku, park featuring Japanese, French, and English garden styles. It’s a peaceful spot to ease yourself into your 3 day Tokyo itinerary

Getting There: From Shinjuku Station, take the Marunouchi Line to Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station one stop. The Shinjuku Gate is a five-minute walk from Exit 1.

Admission and Hours: Open from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm (last entry at 5:00 pm). Admission is ¥500 for adults; children under 15 enter free.

Highlights: Explore the Japanese Traditional Garden with its ponds and teahouse. The greenhouse houses tropical plants, offering a nice contrast to what you see in the rest of the park

Photography Tip: Several opportunities for traditional teahouses and Japanese gardens against the backdrop of skyscrapers, a quintessential Tokyo scene and very much worth of your Instagram!

Scenic view of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden with lush greenery, a serene pond, and the NTT Docomo Yoyogi Building towering in the background under a clear blue sky
Tokyo Skyline from Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Afternoon: Shinjuku’s 3D Cat Billboard and Godzilla

This nighttime image shows a large, three-dimensional digital billboard display in the Shinjuku district of Tokyo. The billboard features a highly detailed, lifelike rendering of a calico cat, taking up a significant portion of the screen space. The cat's distinctive markings and expressive features are clearly visible, suggesting advanced display technology used to create this eye-catching advertisement
Cat 3D billboard in Shinjuku

After the garden, head to the Cross Shinjuku Vision building to see the giant 3D cat billboard. This digital display features a lifelike cat that appears between advertisements from 7:00 am to 1:00 am. I wondered if this might be a bit gimmicky, but we stayed here for around 15 minutes watcing the various different animations of the cheeky cat. The best view is from the plaza near the East Exit of Shinjuku Station, but it’s easy to find and work out yourself based on how busy it is. TOP TIP! If you’re staying in Shinjuku, come past and have a look at night as well as during the day

Getting There: A short walk from Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station to Shinjuku Station’s East Exit.

When you are ready for another uniquely Japanese sight make your may to visit Godzilla at Hotel Gracery Shinjuku in Kabukicho. Yes you read that right, a gigantic Godzilla head on the side terrace of a popular hotel choice. This replica roars with light and sound effects at scheduled times.

Getting There: Approximately a 10-minute walk from the 3D cat billboard to Hotel Gracery Shinjuku.

Lunch: Try “Fūunji,” a renowned ramen shop known for its tsukemen (dipping noodles). Be prepared for a wait, as it’s popular among locals and tourists alike. If the queue is too much for you, take a look at my downloadable map of some of the best food options in Tokyo and pick something else nearby

Optional afternoon culture: SOMPO Museum of Art

The SOMPO Museum of Art, which houses an extensive collection of Western and Japanese art, including pieces by Van Gogh and Gauguin. The museum also has seasonal exhibitions.

Getting There: From Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, it’s a 10-minute walk to the SOMPO Museum of Art.

Admission and Hours: Open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (last entry at 5:30 pm). Admission fees vary depending on the exhibition.

Highlights: Don’t miss Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers,” a highlight of the museum’s permanent collection.

Evening: Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai

The evening is when Shinjuku really comes alive, I loved staying here, because it meant everything was so accessible. I’m recommending you explore Omoide Yokocho for dinner, I ate here twice during my stay and really enjoyed the atmosphere!

Also known as “Memory Lane”, or less enticingly “piss alley”, but don’t let that name put you off. It is a network of narrow alleys lined with small eateries serving plenty of yakitori and other local dishes.

This really is an iconic Tokyo dining experience that you must try. You sit around counters or small tables shoulder to shoulder with salaymen, locals and tourists alike. We tried all sorts of things we’d never heard of and found ourselves engaged in conversation flowing as easily as the ice cold beer, with people we had never met!

Getting There: A 7-minute walk from the SOMPO Museum of Art to Omoide Yokocho, located near Shinjuku Station’s West Exit.

Restaurant Recommendation: I recommend trying a couple of different stops, even if you only visit once, the more open and obvious the grill, the better! Pick whichever appeals to your most, whilst there are the normal safe options, like chicken yakitori, I encourage you to embrace your adventurous eating side.

After dinner, head to Golden Gai, famous for its narrow alleys and over 200 tiny, themed bars. When I say tiny, I mean tiny, with some venues only having seating for 3/4 people.

Each bar has its own unique character, offering an intimate setting to enjoy drinks and conversation. TOP TIP! It may look a little daunting, we felt like we were walking uninvited into someones living room, but trust me it’s worth it and the people are very welcoming. We tried 4 different bars and had a wonderful time, before we knew it we were sharing music playlists with locals and the barman. 

Getting There: Golden Gai is an 11 minute walk from Omoide Yokocho, situated near Shinjuku Station’s East Exit.

Photography Tip: The neon-lit alleys of Golden Gai provide excellent opportunities for moody night shots, be patient, even when it’s busy you don’t have to wait long to get a nice empty shot.

If this whets your appetite for a bigger night, Tokyo has a fantastic nighclub scene, with excellent venues, live music and top DJ’s.

Additional Option in Shinjuku

If you’re interested in panoramic city views, consider visiting the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building’s observation decks, offering free access and stunning vistas of the city.

Getting There: The building is a 15-minute walk from Shinjuku Station’s West Exit. TOP TIP! Check opening times for the day you want to go as they can vary wildly, we found this out the hard way on our first visit!

Tokyo Day 2: Shibuya and Harajuku

Morning: Shibuya Crossing and Shibuya Sky

Aerial view of the famous Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo, crowded with pedestrains and surrounded by tall buildings and electronic billboards
The famous Shibuya Crossing

Three days in Tokyo wouldn’t be complete without taking on the Shibuya Crossing, one of the world’s busiest pedestrian intersections. Watching the organised chaos from ground level is a must, but for a more panoramic view, visit the shibuya station walkway opposite, or head up to the Starbucks where for a price of a drink you can get windowside views of the madness, and get that obligatory time lapse video.

If you are feeling like something extra special, head to Shibuya Sky, the observation deck overlooking Shibuya Scramble Square. It offers breathtaking views of Tokyo’s skyline, and on clear days, even Mount Fuji makes an appearance.

Book your tickets in advance to avoid dissapointment, the most popular times sell out days and weeks in advance

Getting There: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Shibuya Station. Exit via the Hachiko Exit for the crossing, then walk to Shibuya Scramble Square.

Shibuya Sky Details:

  • Hours: 10:00 am to 10:30 pm (last entry at 9:20 pm).
  • Admission: ¥2,000 online; ¥2,400 on-site.

Photography Tip: Sunset is stunning, however is unsurprisingly the most popular time slot

Optional Extra: Before moving on, stop by the Hachiko Statue, located near Shibuya Station’s exit. It’s a famous meeting point and a great photo spot. The story is also heart warming and sad in equal measure

Late Morning: Real-Life Mario Kart

This was something I simply couldnt refuse trying! An adrenaline rush with a real-life go-kart tour through Tokyo. Several companies let you dress as your favourite characters (though Mario costumes are no longer an option, nintendo and their copywrite lawyers have won!) and drive through iconic spots like Shibuya, Harajuku, and Roppongi. It’s an exciting way to see the city from a totally different angle. We got to drive through the scramble itself, which was another interesting way to see it!

Details:

  • Requirements: An International Driving Permit (IDP) and passport are mandatory. You have to sort this in your home country before leaving
  • Booking Tip: Reserve your spot in advance, as tours fill up quickly.
  • Safety: Follow all traffic rules and listen to your guide, we found it very simple and felt safe throughout

Afternoon: Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street

After your karting adventure, wind down at Meiji Shrine, a beautiful Shinto shrine nestled in a large forested park. The gravel paths lined with towering trees create a peaceful atmosphere, a nice contrast to the buzzing streets of Harajuku and Shibuya.

Getting There: From Shibuya, take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station. The shrine is a 5-minute walk from the station.

Admission and Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset. Entry is free.

Highlights:

  • Walk through the massive wooden torii gates.
  • Admire the colourful sake barrels donated to the shrine.
  • You might spot a traditional Shinto wedding procession.

Etiquette Tip: At the purification fountain near the entrance, rinse your hands and mouth before heading to the main hall.

After visiting Meiji Shrine, take a short walk (5 minutes) and explore Takeshita Street in Harajuku. A hub for quirky fashion, unique shops, and street food, this will be a lot of the photos you will have seen of Tokyo. Try the famous Harajuku crepes filled with whipped cream and fruit, or grab a rainbow candy floss from one of the stalls.

Snack Recommendation: “Marion Crepes” is a top pick for its variety and history—it’s been around since the 1970s.

Optional Stop: If you’re looking for a quieter spot, visit the Nezu Museum, tucked away just off Omotesando. The art and garden make for a peaceful escape.

Hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (last entry at 4:30 pm). Closed on Mondays.

Admission: ¥1,300 for adults.

Evening: Dinner on Omote-sando

From Takeshita Street, take a short walk to Omote-sando, a tree-lined avenue known for upscale boutiques and impressive architecture. Even if you’re not into shopping, it’s worth admiring the storefronts.

Wrap up your day with dinner on Omote-sando. From sushi to European cuisine, the area offers a range of options.

Optional Extra: If you are not keen on Omote-sando then visit the Tokyu Plaza Harajuku Harakado. A shoping centre with multi level rooftop garden, bars and a food court on the top two floors, featuring some highly praised Japanese chefs.


Tokyo Day 3: Asakusa’s culture and Tokyo Tower

Morning: Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Street

 This image captures the Sensoji Temple, one of the most famous historical landmarks in Tokyo's Asakusa district. The temple's iconic red pagoda and intricate architectural elements, including the curved rooflines and decorative wall patterns, are prominently featured. A number of people can be seen exploring the temple grounds, indicating the site's continued cultural significance and popularity among visitors
Senso-ji temple with pagoda

The end of your 3 days in Tokyo itinerary begins at Senso-ji, the city’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, located in Asakusa. As you approach the temple, you’ll pass through the Kaminarimon Gate, iconic for photos, and walk along Nakamise Street.

This is a lively shopping avenue filled with stalls selling traditional snacks, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. It’s a great place to pick up gifts and try local treats like freshly made ningyo-yaki (small, sweet cakes filled with red bean paste).

TOP TIP! If you have more time in the morning, prior to going into the temple, visit the Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center, for quiet views from a different angle. This was somewhat of a hidden gem when we went and is totally free

Getting There: Take the Ginza Line to Asakusa Station. The temple is a 5-minute walk from the station.

Don’t Miss:

  • The five-story pagoda near the temple.
  • Omikuji (fortune-telling papers) at the temple.
  • The giant red lantern hanging from Kaminarimon Gate.

Photography Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get a clear shot of Kaminarimon Gate.

Late Morning: Sumida River Walk

After exploring Senso-ji, take a leisurely walk along the Sumida River. The promenade offers great views of the Tokyo Skytree across the water, as well as Asahi’s famous “golden flame” sculpture on the headquarters building (some people told us this was Gozilla’s tooth! I can confirm it’s not).

Optional Add-On: Consider taking a river cruise from Asakusa, which offers a unique perspective of the city. Boats travel to destinations like Odaiba and Hamarikyu Gardens.

Afternoon: Tokyo Skytree

Expansive aerial view of Tokyo's cityscape from the Tokyo Skytree, featuring the Sumida River winding through the densely packed buildings and skyscrapers
The Sumida river from the Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest building in Japan, it is for this reason that I am recommending you prioritise this, if you’re only doing one observation deck in Tokoy. For me it is better than Shibuya Sky.

360 degree panoramic views of the city, I don’t personally need more convincing than that! On clear days, you can see as far as Mount Fuji. The observation decks (Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria) offer interactive displays and an exciting glass floor experience, not for those with vertigo!

Getting hungry?: If you are hungry, at the Skytree’s base, you’ll find the Solamachi shopping and dining complex, which offers a variety of restaurants.

Getting There: A 10-minute walk from Asakusa via the Sumida River Walk.

Details:

  • Hours: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm (last entry at 8:00 pm).
  • Admission: ¥2,100 for the Tembo Deck; additional charges for the Tembo Galleria.
  • Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to skip the queue.

Evening: Asakusa Yokocho

Return to Asakusa for your final meal at Asakusa Yokocho, a lively dining area offering a range of Japanese cuisines in a casual setting. It is a great place to wind down after a packed day.

Food Recommendation: Opt for a traditional izakaya experience at “Kamiya Bar,” known for its Denki Bran (an old-fashioned Japanese cocktail) and hearty comfort food like beef stew. Or again, check my downloadable food map for something a bit more special in the area

Optional Add-On: If you’re not ready for the night to end, take a stroll to the Sumida Park riverside area, which is beautifully lit up at night and provides a quiet spot for some nice photos.

Downloadable Map Tokyo 3 day itinerary

Must-Try Foods with 3 days in Tokyo

This photograph depicts a traditional Japanese bento box meal. The bento tray contains several compartments filled with various dishes, including a fried protein item, white rice, miso soup, and small side dishes. The food items are arranged in a visually appealing manner, showcasing the attention to detail and presentation that is characteristic of Japanese cuisine.
Set meal in Tokyo with tempura, Miso and rice

The food in Japan is exceptional, I will go as far as to say it is the most consistently excellent I have eaten on my travels. From budget to high end michelin-starred food, you are going to eat very well. Whilst Osaka is known as Japan’s kitchen, Tokyo more than competes!

You won’t scratch the surface in Tokyo in 3 days, but I have written an in depth guide to the 35 best restaurants for all budgets in Tokyo, this will save you time. At a glance, keep your eye out for these to try!

  • Sushi: Delicate rice seasoned with vinegar, accompanied by seafood, vegetables, or egg, typically presented as rolls or nigiri.
  • Ramen: Hearty noodle soup featuring diverse broths including rich tonkotsu, savory miso, umami soy sauce, or light salt-based variations.
  • Kaiseki: Elaborate multi-course culinary art form showcasing meticulously prepared seasonal ingredients with exquisite presentation.
  • Tempura:Delicately battered seafood and vegetables, expertly deep-fried to crisp perfection.
  • Yakitori: Succulent chicken skewers grilled to smoky tenderness, enhanced with an array of sauces and seasonings.
  • Sashimi: Pristine, thinly sliced raw fish or seafood served without rice, highlighting the ingredient’s pure flavor.
  • Udon: Robust wheat noodles served in versatile broths, enjoyed either steaming hot or refreshingly cold.
  • Soba: Earthy buckwheat noodles presented hot or cold, traditionally accompanied by a flavorful dipping sauce.
  • Tonkatsu: Crispy breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, typically served alongside shredded cabbage and complementary sauce.
  • Okonomiyaki: Savory pancakes brimming with ingredients like cabbage, meat, and seafood, generously topped with sauce and mayonnaise.
  • Shabu-shabu: Interactive hotpot dining experience where diners cook delicate meat and vegetable slices in boiling water and enjoy with dipping sauces.
  • Donburi: Hearty rice bowls crowned with diverse toppings such as beef (gyudon), chicken and egg (oyakodon), or crispy tempura (tendon).
  • Onigiri: Portable rice balls wrapped in seaweed, ingeniously filled with delectable ingredients like salmon, pickled plum, or tuna.
  • Miso Soup: Quintessential traditional soup crafted from fermented soybean paste, often enriched with tofu, seaweed, and green onions.
  • Yakiniku: Interactive Japanese barbecue style where diners personally grill an assortment of meat and vegetables at their table.

Alternative activities for your three days in Tokyo itinerary

With 3 days you are going to have to be picky with what you do, the above would be my personal priority, but having been lucky enough to have 6 days there mysefl, here are some other highlights I would recommend!

Activities to Book in Advance

  • teamLab Borderless: This digital art museum features immersive installations. Due to its popularity, recently claiming the Guinness world record as the most visited museum, definitely buy your tickets online ahead of time.
  • Tokyo Disney Resort: Comprising Disneyland and DisneySea, the parks are incredibly popular. Securing tickets in advance ensures entry and allows for better planning. There are also plenty of accommodation options offering free shuttles
  • Ghibli Museum: Dedicated to the works of Studio Ghibli, this museum requires advance reservations due to limited daily admissions.
  • Sumo Tournaments: Tournaments are held seasonally, tickets sell out quickly and are notoriously hard to get hold of.
  • Themed Cafés: Animal cafe’s, the Pokémon Café and the other well known options are popular and often require reservations weeks in advance.
This image depicts a large indoor exhibition space with rows of what appear to be white, egg-shaped structures covered in a protective material. The structures are arranged in a grid-like pattern on a grassy surface, creating a visually striking and surreal scene. The space is illuminated by natural light filtering through a covered roof structure, casting shadows and highlighting the organic forms of the objects. The overall impression is one of a natural yet carefully curated exhibition, showcasing a unique and captivating artistic display.
One of the rooms at Teamlabs Borderless in Tokyo

Additional Tokyo Experiences that don’t need booking

  • Tokyo National Museum (Ueno): Japan’s history is covered in depth at the country’s largest museum. It houses everything from samurai swords to ancient ceramics and Buddhist art and is set in the beautiful Ueno park.
  • Tsukiji Outer Market: Although the inner wholesale market has relocated, the outer fish market is still buzzing. Sample fresh sushi, sashimi, tamagoyaki, and other street food, or pick up Japanese culinary tools and tea. This is an area to consider taking cash with you
  • Akihabara: Known as the mecca of otaku culture, Akihabara is perfect for anime, manga, and electronics enthusiasts. Explore themed cafes, retro video game stores, plenty of arcades and multi-level shops like Yodobashi Camera.
  • Shin-Okubo Koreatown: Experience Tokyo’s Korean culture in Shin-Okubo. Try Korean BBQ, trendy street foods like tteokbokki or cheese corn dogs, and shop for K-pop merchandise.
  • Koenji Vintage Shopping: This laid-back neighbourhood is a haven for vintage clothing lovers, with thrift shops and second-hand boutiques lining the streets. It’s also a hotspot for live music and casual izakayas


Great Day Trips from Tokyo

If you have longer in the city, Tokyo’s excellent public transport system and links to the wider JR network, makes it easy to explore some amazing places nearby. Here are five options that I highly recommend considering!

1. Hakone

A traditional Japanese sightseeing ship cruises on Lake Ashi in Hakone, with lush green forested mountains in the background and a red torii gate visible on the shore
Lake Ashi Hakone with the sightseeing cruise

Hakone is renowned for its hot springs, beautiful landscapes, and views of Mount Fuji.

Highlights:

  • Lake Ashi: Take a cruise on a pirate ship with Mount Fuji as a backdrop.
  • Hakone Shrine: Visit the shrine known for its iconic red torii gate standing in the lake.
  • Owakudani Valley: Explore this volcanic valley with active sulfur vents and try the famous black eggs.
  • Hakone Open-Air Museum: Enjoy a unique blend of art and nature at Japan’s first open-air museum.

Getting There: From Shinjuku Station, take the Odakyu Romancecar to Hakone-Yumoto Station (approx. 85 minutes). The Hakone Freepass offers unlimited rides on designated transport within Hakone and round-trip tickets from Shinjuku.

2. Kamakura

Often called the “Kyoto of Eastern Japan,” Kamakura is rich in historical sites and coastal scenery.

Highlights:

  • Great Buddha (Daibutsu): Visit the iconic 13-meter-tall bronze statue at Kotoku-in Temple.
  • Hasedera Temple: Explore this temple known for its eleven-headed statue of Kannon and beautiful gardens.
  • Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: Discover Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrine, founded in 1063.

Getting There: Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station (approx. 60 minutes).

3. Nikko

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Nikko is famed for its ornate temples.

Highlights:

  • Toshogu Shrine: Admire the lavishly decorated mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.
  • Rinnoji Temple: Visit this significant Buddhist temple established in the 8th century.
  • Kegon Falls: Experience one of Japan’s most beautiful waterfalls, especially stunning in autumn.
  • Lake Chuzenji: Enjoy the serene lake located at the foot of Mount Nantai.

Getting There: From Asakusa Station, take the Tobu Nikko Line to Tobu-Nikko Station (approx. 2 hours).

FAQs About Tokyo

Is 3 Days Enough in Tokyo?

Three days allow you to experience Tokyo’s key districts and attractions. However, the city is vast, so you will find yourself having to be choosy and miss a lot of fantstic attractions, additional days are always better!

Is There Uber in Japan?

Uber operates in Japan but is limited compared to other countries. Traditional taxis and public transport are more commonly used.

Is Tokyo Better Than Kyoto?

Tokyo and Kyoto offer very different experiences. Tokyo is a huge city with modern attractions, while Kyoto provides a glimpse into Japan’s historical and cultural heritage. Your preference depends on the experiences you prefer. Pairing the two on a longer trip is what I would personally recomment

Is Tokyo Easy to Travel With Kids?

Tokyo is family-friendly, featuring attractions like Ueno Zoo, interactive museums, and theme parks such as Tokyo Disneyland. The city’s public transport, family friendly hotel options and availability of baby facilities mean it is easy to travel around as a family

Final Thoughts on a 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary

There you have it, hopefully I have now helped you fill your three days in Tokyo. This offer a glimpse into a city that has it all. From the peaceful paths of Meiji Shrine to the buzzing streets of Shibuya, and the rich culture of Asakusa, every neighbourhood reveals a different side of the city.

While Tokyo itself could fill countless trips beyond your three days, Japan has even more to offer. Cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, or the quiet beauty of Miyajima, need to be on your list to explore!