Morio (CC BY-SA 3.0)Meiji Jingu Shrine · Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden · Shibuya Sky · Sensō-ji Temple & Nakamise Shopping Street · Tokyo Skytree · teamLab Planets TOKYO DMM
Reviewed by Shobhit Shrivastava · Founder
3-day Tokyo itinerary. Day-by-day route, attractions and food.
Tokyo offers a blend of hyper-modernity and deep tradition, creating a city unlike any other. It is a striking contrast to a more traditional destination like Kyoto, which, while rich in ancient temples, largely lacks the electric pulse of diverse nightlife, cutting-edge digital art installations and the rapid evolution of contemporary street culture. This destination is built for those seeking a dynamic urban experience, varied cuisine and a constant hum of innovation mixed with spiritual pauses.
Day 1 · Iconic Temples & Shrines
Day 1 · Serene Japanese Gardens & Green Spaces
Day 1 · A Scenic Rooftop Viewpoint
Day 2 · Exploring Iconic Tokyo Neighborhoods
Day 2 · An Immersive Digital Art & Modern Museum
Day 3 · Essential Japanese Culinary & Market Experiences
Day 3 · Traditional Japanese Performances & Arts
Pick travel dates to see the weather for your month.
Tokyo is at its most pleasant during the spring and fall months when the air is crisp and comfortable for walking. Summers are hot and humid with frequent rain, so schedule your outdoor sightseeing for the early morning hours.
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 51°F / 10°C | 34°F / 1°C (cold) | 5 | 6:50 AM – 4:50 PM |
| Feb | 52°F / 11°C | 36°F / 2°C (cold) | 6 | 6:28 AM – 5:22 PM |
| Mar | 60°F / 15°C | 43°F / 6°C (cold) | 9 | 5:52 AM – 5:48 PM |
| Apr | 67°F / 20°C | 50°F / 10°C | 10 | 5:09 AM – 6:13 PM |
| May | 77°F / 25°C | 60°F / 15°C | 9 | 4:36 AM – 6:38 PM |
| Jun | 80°F / 27°C | 67°F / 19°C | 12 | 4:25 AM – 6:58 PM |
| Jul | 87°F / 30°C (hot) | 74°F / 23°C | 13 | 4:36 AM – 6:57 PM |
| Aug | 89°F / 32°C (hot) | 76°F / 24°C | 10 | 5:00 AM – 6:31 PM |
| Sep | 82°F / 28°C | 69°F / 20°C | 12 | 5:23 AM – 5:48 PM |
| Oct | 72°F / 22°C | 58°F / 15°C | 11 | 5:47 AM – 5:06 PM |
| Nov | 64°F / 18°C | 48°F / 9°C | 9 | 6:16 AM – 4:34 PM |
| Dec | 55°F / 13°C | 38°F / 3°C (cold) | 6 | 6:43 AM – 4:28 PM |
:ja:User:(WT-ja) Tatata (CC BY-SA 4.0)Upon arrival at Narita International Airport (NRT), complete customs and immigration. Take the Narita Express (N'EX) train directly to Shinjuku Station. The N'EX is a comfortable and efficient way to reach central Tokyo. From Shinjuku, transfer to your hotel in the Shinjuku area.
Check into your hotel in Shinjuku and take some time to rest and refresh after your international flight. Settle in before starting your exploration of Tokyo.
Enjoy a hearty bowl of Tonkotsu Ramen, a rich pork-bone broth noodle soup, at a local ramen shop in Shinjuku to fuel up for the afternoon. This dish is a quintessential Japanese comfort food.
Savor a delicious dinner of Yakitori, grilled chicken skewers, at a vibrant izakaya in Shibuya. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and a variety of perfectly grilled meats and vegetables, a classic Japanese dining experience.
Enjoy a classic Japanese tempura lunch at a local eatery in the historic Asakusa neighborhood, featuring lightly battered and deep-fried seafood and vegetables.
Indulge in a fresh sushi and sashimi dinner in Ginza, known for its high-quality seafood. Experience the delicate artistry and flavors of expertly prepared raw fish.
Staying at Shinjuku since Day 1
Enjoy a balanced and healthy lunch with a traditional Japanese Vegetable Set Meal (Teishoku) at a local eatery in the upscale Ginza district.
Return to your hotel in Shinjuku to check out and collect your luggage before heading to the airport.
名無し野電車区 (CC BY-SA 3.0)Transfer from Shinjuku to Narita International Airport (NRT) for your flight home. Allow ample time for travel, check-in, and security procedures.
Staying at Shinjuku since Day 1
Same destination, your dates, group, and pace. Generated free in about 2 minutes.
Customize this tripFreeFood, shopping & festivals
Tap any photo for more photos, the story, and where to find it.
Tap any photo for more photos, the story, and where to find it.
Exclusive character goods, official figures, and limited-edition items from popular series are often only found here or are significantly cheaper.
You'll find minimalist notebooks, pens, and household items at prices 30-50% lower than abroad, with an extensive range not available internationally.
Tap any photo for more photos and the story.
Jan 1 – 3
Japan's biggest and most important holiday — the entire country shuts down Dec 31-Jan 3. Businesses, most restaurants, and even convenience stores reduce hours. Shinto shrines host millions for hatsumōde (first shrine visit of the year) — Meiji Shrine in Tokyo gets 3 million visitors in 3 days. NHK's Kouhaku Uta Gassen music show is a national tradition. Traditional osechi ryōri bento boxes prepared in advance.
Mar 25 – Apr 7
Apr 29 – May 5
May
Aug 13 – 16
Costs
Estimated total · For 2 travelers · 1 room · 3 days
USD 1,237Flights from your city not included.
| City | Simple | Comfortable | Upscale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | USD 120 | USD 180 | USD 240 |
Not included: visas, travel insurance, SIM cards, tips, shopping.
Mid-priced overall — expect $8-15 for a casual lunch and $100-180/night for business hotels, but convenience store (konbini) meals ($4-7) offer genuinely good value. Tap water is safe to drink everywhere.
For seamless local transport, obtain a Suica or Pasmo IC card at the airport; load it with ¥3000-4000 (~$20-27) per person to cover most train and subway rides without needing to buy individual tickets.
Capitalize on Tokyo's exceptional convenience stores like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Lawson for fresh and affordable breakfasts or lunches; you can find quality meals like onigiri or bentos for ¥500-1000 (~$3-7).
Allocate a portion of your activity budget for one unique cultural immersion, such as a traditional tea ceremony or a sumo stable visit; these experiences often range from ¥8,000-15,000 (~$55-100) per person and offer deep cultural insight.
Given limited free Wi-Fi, ensure connectivity by purchasing a short-term tourist SIM card or renting a pocket Wi-Fi device directly upon arrival at Narita or Haneda airport; a 3-day option typically costs around ¥2,000-3,500 (~$14-24).
Before you go
Round-trip flight, Narita International Airport (NRT)
Day 1–3
Hotel in Tokyo
Nights 1–2 · Shinjuku · about USD 360 · Comfortable hotel range
teamLab Planets TOKYO DMM entry
Day 2 · Book 4 weeks ahead · This immersive digital art museum is very popular and timed entry slots sell out quickly.
Tokyo Skytree Tembo Deck & Galleria entry
Day 2 · Book 7 days ahead · While same-day tickets are often available, booking ahead secures your preferred time slot and avoids potential queues.
Kabuki-za Theatre "Hitomaku-mi" (Single Act) ticket
Day 3 · Book 7 days ahead · While day-of tickets are sometimes available at the theater, booking online in advance secures your desired act and a better seat, especially for popular performances.
Shibuya Sky observation deck
Day 1 · Book 3 days ahead · Tickets are timed entry and can sell out, especially for popular sunset slots.
When visiting the Shibuya Sky on day 1, arrive at the scramble crossing early in the morning to avoid the densest crowds before heading to the deck.
At Sensō-ji temple on day 2, look for the incense burner area; waving the smoke over yourself is a local tradition for good health.
In Shinjuku on day 2, stick to the main established bars in Golden-Gai that have menus posted outside, and avoid any touts who approach you on the street.
For the Tsukiji Outer Market on day 3, aim to arrive before the breakfast rush to easily navigate the narrow aisles and secure seating at popular sushi stalls.
When using the Tokyo metro, remember that station exits are numbered; check your navigation app for the specific exit number, as some stations are massive and the wrong exit can add significant walking time.
Keep a coin purse handy throughout the trip; despite Japan's technological advancement, many small shrines and market stalls still prefer cash for small purchases.
When visiting Tokyo Station on day 3, note that the station is a complex hub with multiple levels; follow the floor signs strictly to reach the correct platform for your airport transit.
If you encounter aggressive or unwanted physical contact in crowded trains, immediately report it to the nearest station staff or a police box, which are marked on maps as Koban.
Buy travel insurance and save the policy offline
Keep a backup card and emergency cash apart from your wallet
Get JPY cash / a no-forex-fee card
Check visa requirements for Japan
Copies of passport and bookings (paper + phone)
Tell your bank your travel dates and check foreign transaction fees
Leave your itinerary, emergency contacts and a passport copy with someone at home
Register with your embassy's traveler program (STEP for US citizens)
Passport (valid 6+ months past your return)
Wallet with ID and payment cards
Transit card: Suica (also Pasmo, ICOCA) · Tokyo
Coin purse
Pen for arrival forms
This packed three-day Tokyo plan uses an immersive approach, staying in one city to maximize exploration time without transfers. Day 1 provides a broad introduction, hitting districts like Shinjuku and Shibuya right after arrival. Day 2 then balances historic sites in Asakusa with modern art at Toyosu and a taste of Shinjuku's nightlife.
The structure ensures you cover Tokyo's diverse character efficiently, from serene temples to entertainment zones, before a Day 3 departure. This trip prioritizes a dense, wide-ranging view of Tokyo, covering both its spiritual sites and its modern, neon-lit districts. The intense pace means you trade off deeper dives into specific sub-cultures or a longer stay in one neighborhood.
You will not visit the historic Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, nor will you experience a day trip to Hakone for its famous mountain views and hot springs. This cut is right if you want an overview of Tokyo; it is not for those seeking extensive nature escapes or single-topic deep dives. To extend this trip, add an extra day for a quieter cultural immersion.
Use this day to visit Nikko, home to ornate shrines like Toshogu and the serene Lake Chuzenji, offering a distinct spiritual and natural contrast to Tokyo's urban sprawl. Nikko is easily accessible by train and provides a different facet of Japan's heritage.
| Visa & entry | US, EU, UK, Australia, Canada citizens typically receive a 90-day visa-free stay upon arrival. Indian citizens generally require an e-Visa or sticker visa in advance, which can take several days for approval. All nationalities should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. For other nationalities, please check the official website of the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html) for specific requirements. |
|---|---|
| US risk level | Exercise normal precautionsUpdated May 14, 2025 |
| Official advice | US State Department · UK Foreign Office |
| Emergency | Police 110 · Ambulance 119 · Fire 119English support available at #7119 (medical) and #9110 (police non-emergency) |
| Tipping: restaurants | Not expected — tipping can be considered rude |
|---|---|
| Tipping: taxis | Not expected |
| Tipping: hotels | Not expected; leave a tip in an envelope if desired |
| Cards | Accepted at major stores and hotels; less common at small restaurants |
| Contactless | IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) widely accepted at convenience stores and transit |
| Cash | Cash is still widely used, especially at small shops and rural areas |
| Payment tip | Carry cash — many places are cash-only. 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign cards. |
| Plugs | Type A, B100V · 50/60Hz |
|---|
| SIM | Price | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Airalo eSIM | $9 to $26 for 10 to 30 days | Airalo website or app |
| Ubigi eSIM | $7 to $15 for 10 to 30 days | Ubigi website or app |
| Japan Wireless Pocket WiFi | $50 to $80 for 7 days | Online for airport pickup |
Most Japanese SIM cards and data plans are region-locked to Japan, so do not rely on them for travel to nearby countries. Public WiFi networks often require re-authentication every 30 to 60 minutes.
About USD 1,237 for 2 travelers · 1 room · 3 days: hotels, food, activities, local transport and travel between places. Flights from your city not included.
Visa requirements depend on your citizenship. Many travelers from the US, EU, UK, and Australia can enter for tourism without a visa for short stays. Check your specific country's entry status through the official embassy website before you book your flights.
Tokyo is among the safest cities globally. You can walk alone at night in most areas without concern. If you feel uneasy or encounter an issue, look for a koban, which is a small neighborhood police box found on most street corners.
Use a Suica or Pasmo digital transit card on your phone to tap in and out at ticket gates. These work on nearly all trains and buses, making travel seamless. You can add them to your mobile wallet before you even arrive at the airport.
Carry cash for smaller shops, neighborhood shrines, and ticket machines at older stations. While major retailers and hotels accept cards, many small eateries and local vendors still operate on a cash-only basis. Always keep a few thousand yen in your pocket.
Take the Narita Express or Keisei Skyliner from Narita, or the Monorail from Haneda for direct, efficient travel to central hubs. Taxis exist but cost significantly more and can get stuck in heavy city traffic. Stick to the rail lines to save both time and money.
Tipping is not part of Japanese culture. Simply pay the bill as presented at the register. Offering a tip can sometimes cause confusion, so just offer a polite bow or a thank you instead.
Use Google Maps to navigate the train and subway lines. It tells you exactly which platform to use and which car puts you closest to your exit. Don't worry about the complexity, as the system is color-coded and highly reliable.
Tokyo is generally safe, but areas like Kabukicho in Shinjuku and parts of Ueno have active nightlife districts with touts. Avoid following street promoters into bars or clubs, as they are known to use aggressive pricing tactics. Stay in well-lit, public areas if you are unsure.
Download this Tokyo, Japan itinerary — day-by-day plan, maps, budget, and more.
Keep exploring
3 days · USD 1,028 excl. flights · Japan
3 days in Osaka: focus on the food and nightlife districts of Namba and Dotonbori, with a dedicated day for the modern installations at teamLab Botanical Garden. This trip uses a central Namba base to keep transport simple. Expect a packed pace with 4-5 activities daily, balancing neon-lit...
5 days · USD 1,823 excl. flights · Japan
5 days exploring Tokyo's diverse character through food, spiritual sites, and local culture. Experience the historic Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Jingu, browse the vintage shops of Shimokitazawa, and dine at Tsukiji Outer Market. Maintain a comfortable pace with one neighborhood focus per day and...
7 days · USD 2,975 excl. flights · Japan
7 days across Kyoto and Tokyo. Begin with 3 nights in Kyoto (Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, based in Higashiyama), then ride the Shinkansen to Tokyo for 4 nights (Shibuya Crossing, Tsukiji Outer Market, teamLab Planets, Asakusa). Packed pace with 4-5 activities daily,...
14 days · USD 5,338 excl. flights · China And Japan
This 14-day trip spans China and Japan, starting with Beijing's imperial history, moving to Shanghai's modern skyline, then to Kyoto's serene temples and concluding in Tokyo's neon-lit districts. You will explore sites like the Great Wall, Shanghai's Bund, Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine and...
Start from a free, no-signup travel itinerary template. The Excel and Google Sheets versions auto-total the budget and split costs by who paid.
Free travel itinerary template (all formats) →