Perfect Tokyo itinerary for firts time visitors

The Japanese tend to holiday with their every second mapped out beforehand, but it’s hard to do the same in their own capital city – it’s a gigantic place where every neighbourhood can eat up a full day of your time If it's your first time in Tokyo, this itinerary will give you at least a taster of what Tokyo is all about, lassoing together some of its most spellbinding districts and enchanting sights.

How to get around in Tokyo

Tokyo’s public transport system is efficient, clean and safe, with trains and subways the best way of getting around; a lack of signs in English makes the bus system a lot more challenging. For short, cross-town journeys, taxis are handy and, if shared by a group of people, not all that expensive. Sightseeing tours are also worth considering if you are pushed for time or would like a guided commentary.

When visiting for the first time, you simply need to familiarise yourself with the main modes of transport in Tokyo and their features in advance:

• Subway: Tokyo’s subway is relatively easy to negotiate: the simple colour-coding on trains and maps, as well as clear signposts (many also in English), directional arrows and alpha-numeric station codes, make this by far the most gaijin-friendly form of transport. Tickets are bought at the vending machines beside the electronic ticket gates (ticket sales windows are only found at major stations).
• Train: Japan Railways East, part of the national rail network, runs the main overland services in and around Tokyo. They all have their own colour coding on maps, with the various JR lines coming in many different shades. It’s fine to transfer between JR lines on the same ticket. Ticket machines are easy to operate if buying single tickets, if you can find your destination on the network maps above.
• Monorail: Tokyo has a couple of monorail systems. These services operate like the city’s private rail lines – you buy separate tickets for journeys on them or travel using the various stored-value cards, such as Pasmo and Suica.
• Bus: Buses are a good way of cutting across the few areas of Tokyo not served by a subway or train line, though they’re little used by overseas visitors. Compared to the subway there’s little information in English. The final destination is listed on the front of the bus, along with the route number. You pay on entry, by dropping the flat rate into the fare box by the driver (there’s a machine in the box for changing notes); travel cards are also accepted.
• Bicycle: You’ll see people cycling all over Tokyo, but despite this, it’s not a terribly bike-friendly city. Most locals cycle on the pavement, there being very few dedicated bike lanes, and Japanese rules of courtesy dictate that even though every bike has a bell, absolutely nobody uses them – even if they’re coming up behind you, at speed, on a narrow path, in the rain.
• Ferry: The Tokyo Cruise Ship Company runs several ferry services, known as suijō basu (water buses), in and around Tokyo Bay. The ferries’ large picture windows give a completely different view of the city from the one you’ll get on the streets – reason enough for hopping aboard.
• Taxi: For short hops, taxis are often the best option. After the basic starting rate for the first 1km, the meter racks up, including a time charge when the taxi is moving at less than 10km per hour. Between 11pm and 5am, rates are 25 per cent higher.
• Sightseeing tours: For a quick overview of Tokyo there are the usual bus tours, ranging from half-day jaunts around the central sights to visits out to Kamakura, Nikkō and Hakone. If the sky’s the limit on your budget, go for a spin in a helicopter instead: Excel Air Service will take you for a fifteen-minute flight

How to use the Japan Rail Pass

If you’re planning a lot of train travel around Japan in a short period, the Japan Rail Pass can be a great deal, though you have to buy this outside Japan before you travel; prepare for giant queues if picking it up at the airport, though note that you can also pick it up from any major JR station. JR East offers its own versions of the pass, covering its network in the Tokyo region and northern Japan; these can be purchased in Japan from JR ticket offices.

5 day Tokyo itinerary

For an unforgettable first visit to Tokyo, begin your adventure in the verdant expanse of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. As evening falls, watch the lights of Tokyo from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory and then immerse yourself in Shinjuku's vibrant nightlife, filled with energy and colourful lights.

On day two, feel the pulse of Tokyo at the famous Shibuya Crossing, a kaleidoscope of movement and sounds. Wander the quaint streets of Harajuku, where fashion meets fantasy, and end your day among the upscale boutiques of Omotesando.

Day three invites you to travel back in time to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo's oldest temple, before being transported into the future at Akihabara, a dazzling neighbourhood of tech gadgets and anime.

On day four, devote a cultural feast at the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno, home to an astounding array of Japanese art. Later, stroll through the picturesque Ueno Park, a haven of tranquillity and cherry blossoms.

Finish your Tokyo experience on day five at the serene Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the revered emperor and his consort. An afternoon in Odaiba offers a glimpse into the future, with interactive museums and the impressive Gundam statue all set against the backdrop of the picturesque Rainbow Bridge. Book this trip.

7 day Tokyo itinerary

If you have a little more time, your first visit to Tokyo can be even more fulfilling. Start your 7-day adventure in the vibrant Shibuya neighbourhood, where you'll explore the iconic Shibuya Crossing and visit the Hachiko statue. Admire panoramic views of the city from the Shibuya Sky, before strolling through local boutiques and sampling Tokyo street food.

On day two, immerse yourself in the creative atmosphere of Harajuku, the epicentre of youth culture and fashion. Stroll along Takeshita Street, sample the famous sweet pancakes and visit the tranquil Meiji Shrine. End the day on architecturally stunning Omotesando Avenue, lined with designer shops.

On day three, head to the historic centre of Asakusa, where you'll explore Sensoji Temple and stroll along Nakamise shopping street. After a traditional lunch, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Sumida River, which will take you to the futuristic Odaiba district for an evening sightseeing tour.

Day four is dedicated to the art and culture of Roppongi. Visit the Mori Museum of Contemporary Art and the upscale Roppongi Hills neighbourhood. As night falls, dive into Roppongi's bustling nightlife or relax in a cosy jazz cafe.

On day five, travel back in time to the charming Yanaka neighbourhood. Visit local temples and Yanaka Cemetery, shop for traditional crafts at Yanaka Ginza, and finish with a sake tasting at a local brewery.

Spend day six at the Odaiba Entertainment Centre, starting with the mesmerising TeamLab Borderless digital art museum. Visit the shopping centres, relax on the beach and enjoy lunch overlooking the illuminated Rainbow Bridge.

End your visit to Tokyo at the tranquil Imperial Palace in Chiyoda, wandering through its lush gardens. Spend the last day exploring the National Museum of Modern Art and the chic Marunouchi district, perfect for last-minute shopping. Book this trip.

Tips for your first-time visit to Tokyo

A first trip to Tokyo can be as exciting as it is overwhelming. As a huge metropolis where the ultra-modern and the traditional blend effortlessly, Tokyo offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Whether you want to immerse yourself in its vibrant pop culture, savour world cuisine or immerse yourself in its rich history and culture, knowing a few key tips can greatly enhance your experience.

Costs

Despite its reputation as an outrageously expensive city, with a little planning Tokyo is a manageable destination even for those on a fairly modest budget. The key is to do what the majority of Japanese do: eat in simple restaurants, avoid the ritzier bars (or bars entirely; convenience-store alcohol is very cheap) and take advantage of any available discounts. There’s also a surprising amount you can do in Tokyo without spending any money at all.

Though credit and debit cards are far more widely accepted than they were a few years ago, Japan is mostly a cash society. The major overseas cards are now accepted in all convenience stores, and the majority of places in which you’re likely to eat, drink or shop. However, some retailers only accept locally issued cards, and many will only take cash. Conversely, others will accept Google or Apple Pay on your phone (local apps are more widespread, but require a domestic number to function). and at many shops it’s possible to pay for goods with your Pasmo card.

Crime and personal safety

Tokyo boasts one of the lowest crime rates in the world. On the whole, the Japanese are honest and law-abiding; there’s little theft, and drug-related crimes are relatively rare. Nonetheless, it always pays to be careful in crowds, and to keep money and important documents stowed in an inside pocket or money belt, or in your hotel safe. 

Emergency numbers:

• Police: 110 
• Fire or ambulance: 119

Entry requirements

All visitors to Japan must have a passport valid for the duration of their stay. At the time of writing, citizens of most Western countries can stay in Japan for up to ninety days without a visa, provided they are visiting for tourism or business purposes and possess a valid ticket out of Japan. 

Citizens of certain other countries must apply for a visa in advance in their own country. Visas are usually free, though in certain circumstances you may be charged a fee. The rules on visas do change from time to time, so check first with the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate, or on the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Health

To find an English-speaking doctor and the hospital or clinic best suited to your needs, contact the Tokyo Medical Information Service (Mon–Fri 9am–8pm; T03 5285 8181); they can also provide emergency medical translation services over the phone. 

Note that certain medications that are commonplace outside Japan are actually illegal here – some of the more prominent prescription drugs on the no-no list are codeine (beyond a certain amount) and some ADHD medications. The health ministry website has more specific details on these, and the forms you’ll need to fill in if you’re to bring these meds into Japan legally.

Due to the high cost of hospital treatment in Japan, it’s essential to take out a good travel insurance policy, particularly one with comprehensive medical coverage.

Where to stay in Tokyo

Japan’s reputation for being an extremely expensive place to visit is a little outdated in many fields, but it’s certainly justified as far as accommodation goes. However, the quality of accommodation in Tokyo is generally very high at all levels, from luxury hotels to budget dorms; security and cleanliness are topnotch; and except at the bottom end of the scale, you’ll usually find someone who speaks at least a smattering of English. 

While there are few bargains, if you look hard you’ll find plenty of affordable places. You’ll often find the best value – along with plenty of atmosphere – at a traditional ryokan or a family-run minshuku, the Japanese equivalent of a B&B. The cheapest beds are provided by privately run hostels, mainly in the city’s northern districts. Capsule hotels are a little more expensive but certainly worth trying once, if only for the experience.

Whatever your budget, it’s wise to reserve your first few nights’ accommodation before arrival. This is especially true of the cheaper places, which tend to fill up quickly, particularly over national holidays and in late February, when thousands of students head to Tokyo for the university entrance exams. 

Rooms are also in short supply during holiday periods, as well as during the cherry blossom season in late March and early April. Good deals can be found online via hotel websites and general booking engines, and it’s always worth asking if there are any promotions on offer.

Continue your exploration of Japan with our practical tips on what you need to know before travelling to the country.