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Japan

Tokyo: itinerary & travel tips

With a greater metropolitan area of over 35 million people, Tokyo is the largest metropolis in the world, yet it is surprisingly easy to navigate. The rail network is punctual and dense, the city is very safe, and every neighbourhood has its own character: temples and crafts in the east, neon lights and shopping in the west, fashion and architecture in the south.

Tokyo is worth a short trip because in just a few days you experience completely different worlds: a morning at the fish market, an afternoon at a shrine in the forest, an evening in a tiny alley of bars. Food is a highlight in its own right, from ramen and sushi to konbini snacks. Allow for jet lag and long walks.

Ready-made itineraries

What to see

  • Sensō-ji (Asakusa)

    Tokyo's oldest temple, with the Kaminarimon Gate and the Nakamise-dōri shopping street, is a good introduction to traditional Tokyo.

  • Meiji Shrine

    The Shintō shrine sits in a quiet wooded area in the middle of Shibuya and is a counterpoint to the noise of the big city.

  • Shibuya Crossing

    The famous crossing is best watched from upper floors such as Shibuya Sky.

  • Tokyo Skytree

    The broadcasting tower offers wide views over the city in clear weather, sometimes as far as Mount Fuji.

  • Imperial Palace and East Gardens (Kōkyo Higashi Gyoen)

    The gardens of the former Edo Castle are free to enter and show remains of the castle complex.

  • Tsukiji Outer Market

    The market on the edge of the former wholesale market is ideal for an early sushi breakfast and street food.

Where to stay

  • Shinjuku

    For anyone on a first visit who wants a central base with the best rail connections and plenty of choice in the evening.

  • Asakusa

    For budget travellers and fans of traditional Tokyo, with inexpensive hostels and hotels and quieter evenings.

  • Shibuya

    For shopping, nightlife and trend-conscious travellers who like a young atmosphere.

  • Ginza / Marunouchi

    For travellers seeking comfort near Tokyo Station, the main railway station, with upscale hotels and good connections for day trips.

Best time to visit

The best times are March to May and October to November: mild, mostly dry, and with cherry blossom (late March to early April) or autumn leaves. During cherry blossom season and Golden Week (late April to early May), hotels are full and noticeably more expensive. Avoid July and August because of the muggy heat, and June because of the rainy season. Typhoons are possible, especially in September; winter is dry, cool and sunny, and often cheaper.

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Getting there

Depending on the season, there are direct flights to Haneda from Frankfurt, Munich or Vienna and Zurich respectively; otherwise you usually have to change planes. The flight takes around 14 hours. Haneda (HND) is close to the city: by train or monorail you are in the centre in about 30 to 40 minutes. From Narita (NRT), which is further away, you take the Narita Express or Skyliner to Tokyo, Ueno or Shinjuku in 40 to 60 minutes. Expect roughly 10 to 30 euros depending on the mode of transport.

Getting around

The network of the JR Yamanote Line and the subway takes you almost anywhere; Google Maps shows connections reliably. A rechargeable Suica or Pasmo card (also available in your smartphone wallet) is more practical than single tickets. A day ticket for the subway only pays off if you make many trips; you'll explore many neighbourhoods best on foot.

Daily budget

budget

€55

mid-range

€120

per person, without accommodation. Food is cheap and good, even on a small budget, while accommodation and admission to observation towers or museums can quickly add up.

Local tips

  • Avoid rush hour between about 7:30 and 9:30 a.m., as the trains are extremely crowded.
  • Bring some cash, as small restaurants and shrines often don't accept cards; ATMs in 7-Eleven stores work with foreign cards.
  • Tipping is not customary and can cause confusion; a friendly thank you is enough.
  • Don't talk on the phone or eat on trains, and dispose of litter properly; public bins are rare, so take your rubbish with you.

FAQ

How many days should you plan for Tokyo?

3 to 4 days are enough for the main neighbourhoods. With 2 days, you focus on a few areas such as Asakusa, Shibuya and Shinjuku. Because of jet lag, it's worth building in a buffer.

Which neighbourhood is best to stay in?

For a first visit, Shinjuku is the most practical because of its transport links. Asakusa is quieter and cheaper, Shibuya livelier. Above all, being close to a train station is what matters.

Is Tokyo expensive?

Less than many people expect: food and public transport are affordable. Hotels are expensive in high season, but there are also simple business hotels and hostels. The exchange rate has a strong effect on costs.

How do I get from the airport into the city?

From Haneda, you take the Keikyū Line or monorail to the centre in around 30 minutes. From Narita, you can use the Narita Express, the Keisei Skyliner or cheaper train connections that take 40 to 90 minutes. Late in the evening there are also buses and taxis, which are considerably more expensive.

Is Tokyo safe for tourists?

Yes, Tokyo is considered one of the safest big cities in the world, even at night. The usual caution in entertainment districts such as Kabukichō is still sensible, for example with touts outside bars. In an earthquake, stay calm and follow the instructions on site.

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