Plan A Great First Time In Tokyo Travel Guide, Japan

Are you planning to travel to Tokyo, Japan, for the first time soon? Oooh, how exciting this is, right?! I have been to Tokyo 6 times and live in Tokyo at the moment. I remember how excited I was to plan my first trip, but it was also daunting as there were so many things to do and see!

It might initially feel overwhelming; Tokyo is a vast city with many things to do! Don’t worry; it doesn’t have to be. You can plan your tailored, perfect first time in Tokyo with the help of my comprehensive travel guide for a first time in Tokyo.

My complete Tokyo Travel Guide for the first-timer will help you to plan an unforgettable first time in Tokyo with all the tips you need to know (where to stay in Tokyo, Where to eat….). And the best activities to do in Tokyo you need to add to your bucket list!

This travel guide compiles all the best things to do and tips for the first time in Tokyo!

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First Time In Tokyo Complete Travel Guide, Japan

 

If you’re familiar with the blog or have read my travel list, you already know I have visited Japan and, more significantly, Tokyo several times.

During all those trips to Japan, I spent hours carefully crafting my itinerary and bucket list either by myself or with friends, so I have tons of activities and tips that could be helpful for you.

I am now living in Tokyo on a Working holiday visa, so I am discovering more and more tips and things to do in Tokyo to share with you!

Also, you might want to read those 11 things to know before visiting Japan.

Since then, I have sent and shared those tips and tricks with a few friends who enjoyed them, so I thought, why not share the top things to do in Tokyo by writing the complete* Tokyo Travel Guide for the first-timer?

And if you’re visiting Tokyo with kids, don’t worry. You’ll also find many activities to do with your kids; it’s a great destination for any age!

*As complete as it can be from my experience and knowledge!

Which Tokyo Airport Is Better? Tokyo Narita vs Haneda

There are two main airports in Tokyo, Narita and Haneda.

Haneda is the best option, and here is why:

While most flights land and take off from Narita; however, if you can have a flight that lands in Haneda, go for it! Going to Tokyo from Haneda is much cheaper and more accessible than Narita. Haneda is just as nice as Narita and less crowded.

For flight research, I recommend you Skyscanner.
Booking.com & Expedia are good options for buying a bundle with flight and accommodation, as you can save up some money that way.

How To Get To Central Tokyo From The Airport?

How to get to Tokyo From Narita Airport :

You have several options to reach Narita Airport/the city centre, from trains to buses. Find out the possibility that suits your needs.

• NE’X Train or Keisei Skyliner

Narita Express (NE’X) and Keisei Skyliner are both trains that can transport you from the airport to the city; they seem pretty similar in terms of prices and services, as both offer discounted fares for foreigners.
Both give you assigned seats.
You can purchase tickets for both N’EX and Skyliner at the airport (Terminal 1 or 2) on the day of your ride.
And if you’re unsure and feeling a little lost when buying your ticket, if you show which stations to the desk, assistance will help you out!

Nonetheless, there are two main differences :

NE’X Stations -> Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Omiya, Yokohama, and Ofuna.
Keisei Skyliner Stations -> Nippori and Ueno

You can use the JR Pass with the NE’X but not the Keisei Skyliner.
Make sure to check the best stations for you to get off to join your accommodation after!

• Limousine Bus

Another option to go to Narita Airport is the Limousine Bus. While it takes more time than the NE’X or Keisei Skyliner, it’s a little cheaper, and you don’t have to bother carrying your luggage around.

Believe me, when you have nearly 30kg of luggage (I may have been a little overboard on my first trip with packing; make sure not to make the same travel mistake as me!), it’s a-w-e-s-o-m-e.
The Limousine Bus departs from many main stations such as Shibuya, Shinjuku, Akihabara, Tokyo, etc.

See more about it here.

How to get to Tokyo from Haneda Airport :

Unlike Narita Airport, you can access Haneda Airport by taking the Yamanote Line and Keikyu Line to Haneda Airport station.

It’s super easy and cheaper than joining Narita; I recommend flying to and from Haneda if you can.

Limousine Bus -> It works the same way as for Narita.

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How To Travel Around Tokyo:
Use the Bus and Subway: Pasmo or Suica ->

IMPORTANT: At the moment (Oct 2023), there has been a shortage of the components to make the cards, and regular Pasmo and Suica sales have been suspended for tourists. Upon arrival, you can get a Welcome Suica or a Welcome Pasmo at the airport, those last one month.

Tokyo’s metro charges by fare, which means the price will change depending on where you go. It gets expensive pretty quickly! And to ride the Tokyo public transportation, your best option is to get an IC Card, whether a Pasmo or a Suica.

Honestly, neither has more perks than the other. It’s really on the logo that changes as they work on the Tokyo Metro and JR Toei Line and buses.

Pasmo has a pink-ish wagon, while the Suica mascot is a cute penguin. Which maybe makes it more popular? I don’t know, but both are fine from points A to B. It’s best to get it as soon as you land in Tokyo.

Another perk of the SUICA/PASMO is that all you have to do is swipe at the entrance and the exit, which means you don’t have to waste time buying a ticket for a specific station each time you take it, and you can also use your IC Card has an electronic wallet to pay in various places (Konbini, vending machines and even some shops and restaurants)

All you have to do is charge your Pasmo or Suica, and then you ride the metro! However, remember that you will need cash to recharge your IC Card.

How to get the SUICA/PASMO ->

IMPORTANT: At the moment (Oct 2023), there has been a shortage of the components to make the cards, and regular Pasmo and Suica sales have been suspended for tourists. Upon arrival, you can get a Welcome Suica or a Welcome Pasmo at the airport, those last one month.

There’s a machine with a Suica or a Pasmo sign at each station; you can get the cards there.
The card has a deposit of 500¥, which you can get back if you give it back.
Getting the cards is simple; you can switch the machine’s language to English and follow the instructions.
And if you have trouble, the station’s staff will be pleased to help you!

You can keep both of them for ten years, which is something I only learnt recently.

However, if you don’t want to bother with the physical card, you can now directly have the SUICA card on your phone.

Helpful Website: Tokyo Metro 

Should I Get A JR PASS To Visit Tokyo?

The short answer is no; if you plan to spend most of your time in Tokyo and do a few day trips here and there, then you do not need a JR Pass. An IC Card is more than enough, even more so with the recent increase in the prices of JR Passes since Oct 1st, 2023.

Even if you plan to visit Kyoto or/or Osaka, you might not need one if you’re fine using the bus services (buses in Japan are pretty cool to travel with). We used a night bus with my brother in 2019 to visit Osaka for a few days, saving a lot of money.

It would be best to use this JR Pass Calculator before you choose whether or not to buy a JR Pass; depending on your itinerary and what you want to do, it might be a great purchase or a waste of money.

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Alright, so this is the most significant chunk of this guide.

Tokyo is a restless city; there’s always something to do, so much it can even feel overwhelming initially.
I cover things my friends/locals and I have done and recommend on this Tokyo Bucket list and things I would like to do on my future trips.

Are you looking for a specific itinerary? Check this detailed 5-day Tokyo itinerary!

Fun activities to do in Tokyo

As I said, Tokyo has many activities; here are some general things worth trying at least once if you go to Japan for the first time!
You can’t leave the capital or Japan without trying at least once to sing your lungs out at a Karaoke or play some game at an arcade centre!

• Karaoke
• Purikura (photobooth)
• Arcade Game Center
• Shrines
• Matsuri (Festivals)
• Try a Gachapon
• Collect “Goshuin” from various temples
• Collect Eki (Station) Stamps

Want more inspiration for your trip to Tokyo? Check out those 40 amazing quotes about Tokyo!

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I have a list of all the accommodations I stayed in Tokyo at the bottom of this post, but if you’re eager to look up accommodations, check out Booking.com.

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Best Things To Do For A First Time In Tokyo

Before we dive into the famous must-sees and dos of Tokyo and lesser-known and more off-the-beaten-path activities there are to do in Tokyo, you need to have a general idea of the most famous and most significant areas of the capital.

Tokyo is a vast prefecture; you can travel over two hours by train, and you would still be in Tokyo; it is a common misconception that Tokyo is relatively small, but Tokyo is a prefecture, and it’s enormous!

Of course, when you are visiting for the first time, chances are you are thinking of visiting central Tokyo and the major wards (23 of them)

However, “Central Tokyo” usually refers to 5 wards within Tokyo: Minato-ku, Chiyoda-ku, Chuo-ku, Shinjuku-ku and Shibuya-ku

So, if you’re wondering, “What are the most famous areas of Tokyo?” here is the answer:

• Shibuya
• Shinjuku
• Shimokitazawa
• Akihabara
• Akasaka
• Ginza
• Roppongi
• Meguro
• Asakusa
• Ueno
• Tokyo
• Nihonbashi
• Tokyo Bay/ Odaiba

Where To Stay in Tokyo First Time?

The main daunting question is on every traveller’s list when visiting Tokyo for the first time. The location of your hotel is very important as it can change everything depending on when you are.

The main thing you want to focus on here is convenience. Choosing the best location to stay in Tokyo for the first time depends on your preferences, interests, and the type of experience you’re looking for. Tokyo is a vast metropolis with diverse neighbourhoods, each offering a unique atmosphere.

Here are some pros and cons of the major areas you should consider to stay at during your trip:

1. Shinjuku:
   • Pros: Vibrant nightlife, shopping, entertainment, and dining options. Convenient transportation hub.
   • Cons: It can be crowded and hectic.
2. Shibuya:
   • Pros: Famous for the Shibuya Crossing, trendy fashion, and nightlife. Good shopping and dining.
   • Cons: Can be busy and crowded.
3. Tokyo Station/Marunouchi:
   • Pros: Central location, historical sites, luxury hotels. Convenient for business travellers.
   • Cons: Quieter in the evenings, fewer budget accommodation options.
4. Asakusa:
   • Pros: Rich in traditional culture, home to Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street. More relaxed atmosphere.
   • Cons: Further from nightlife areas.
5. Ginza:
   • Pros: Upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment. Close to Tokyo Bay and Tsukiji Fish Market.
   • Cons: Higher-end prices, quieter in the evenings.
6. Akihabara:
   • Pros: Electronic and anime district, vibrant nightlife, unique cafes.
   • Cons: It may be overwhelming for those not interested in tech or anime culture.
7. Roppongi:
   • Pros: Nightlife, international dining, art museums. Good for expats and a diverse crowd.
   • Cons: It can be expensive and known for nightlife.
8. Ikebukuro:
   • Pros: Shopping, entertainment, and a variety of dining options. Slightly less crowded than Shinjuku or Shibuya.
   • Cons: Less known to international tourists.
9. Ueno:
   • Pros: Ueno Park, museums, zoo. A more relaxed atmosphere.
   • Cons: Less nightlife compared to other areas.
10. Ebisu/Daikanyama:
    • Pros: Trendy, upscale neighbourhoods with excellent dining and shopping. Relaxed atmosphere.
    • Cons: It’s going to be pricier.

Now that you have a rough idea of all the best neighbourhoods in Tokyo, let’s jump into the details of each of them and the best things to do there for your first time in Tokyo!

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Best Things To Do In Shibuya

– Shibuya

Access: Yamanote Line Stop -> Shibuya

• Center Gai

Certainly! Center Gai is a bustling and vibrant street located in the heart of Shibuya, known for its lively atmosphere and as a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.

• Shibuya 109

It is impossible to miss when you leave Shibuya’s station. This enormous shopping centre is levelled on floors; there are many “Gyaru” brands or cutesy clothing. It’s pretty expensive, and if you have some meat on your bone, you might struggle to find pieces your size.

• Shibuya Famous Crossing / Hachiko Statue

You have probably already seen one of the landmarks of Shibuya in movies, advertisements and so on. I have to say that the crossing looks much smaller in real life!
The Hachiko statue is on the street’s left side before the zebra crossing. It is a statue based on the famous Hachiko dog story.

Tip: If you want a great shot of the zebra crossing/Shibuya, you can go to the Starbucks bay windows if you’re willing to wait, as they’re always busy.

• Disney Store

This is the perfect shop for all Disney lovers who don’t have time in their itinerary to make it to Disneyland, Tokyo or Disney Sea.

You can still get some cool and unique Disneyland goodies from Japan at the Disney store. Shibuya. Also, the entrance and the inside, with all the Disney decorations, are the cutest.

• Shibuya Sky

If you’re on social media, you have probably seen this one a million times: Shibuya Sky. It’s crowded but worth the hype, as the view of Tokyo at night or even during the day is pretty amazing. It’s a famous insta spot.

• Shibuya Magnet

If you didn’t get tickets to Shibuya Sky, then I recommend that you check out Shibuya Magnet; they have a rooftop bar access that gives you a great view of the Shibuya crossing and more; all you have to do is buy a drink. It’s an excellent alternative to the Shibuya Sky.

And. of course, Magnet has plenty of good shops too, if you’re down for some shopping.

• Check out Shibuya Stream

This modern shopping and dining complex contrasts Shibuya’s traditional surroundings. It’s a great place to relax, shop, or stroll along the stream.

• Shibuya Parco

Shibuya Parco is a shopping complex with a mix of fashion, art, and dining; Parco is a great place to explore the latest trends and subcultures. You can also find the Nintendo Shop for all the Nintendo fans!

Shibuya Parco also offers a great rooftop garden to chill or admire the view of Shibuya; it’s also lovely to watch the sunset but not the best, as the tall buildings also block the view a little.

– Harajuku

Located in Shibuya ward, Harajuku is one of the most famous areas to visit. Be careful it’s a pretty busy area!

One stop from Shibuya Station, Harajuku, is also a tiny walkable distance from Shibuya. So, if you’re visiting Shibuya and want to go to Harajuku next, save some time and enjoy a nice walk instead of using the Yamanote Line again!

• Takeshita Dori

Takeshita Dori is a massive shopping street; you can find a lot of alternative fashion there. Pet clothing, as well as a lot of different jewellery stores, from cute to underground culture, there’s something for everyone’s taste.

The entrance arch of the street also changes every week. The road from the top might be a bit frightening at first as it is highly crowded, but it’s worth checking at least once!

If you’re bad with crowded places, you might consider skipping it, though, as it’s quite the crowd!

You can also find the very instagrammable Rainbow Cotton Candy there, and their crêpes filled with much more than your usual crêpes (cheesecake and so on) if you have a sweet tooth!

• Kiddy Land

Kiddy Land is one of the biggest toy shops in Tokyo; levelled on five floors, you can find many goodies, stationery about Japan’s cute characters/mascots, and some anime or even Star Wars.

I did buy a massive Kapibara-san stuffed toy, and while it was a pain in the neck to travel back home with. But I regret nothing.

• Yoyogi Park

It is a vast park, perfect for a picnic or a stroll if you fancy it. It’s also a fantastic place during spring to check out the cherry blossoms!

• Meiji-Jingu Sanctuary

Very close to Takeshita Dori and Yoyogi Park, the Meiji-Jingu sanctuary is, therefore, quite a touristy landmark. You can find inside it a garden and a shrine; it’s pretty impressive and worth the visit!

Best Things To Do In Shinjuku

– Shinjuku

Access: Yamanote Line Shinjuku

Shinjuku is located right next to Shibuya. It’s a vibrant district where you can find a lot of night activities.

• Shinjuku Gyoen

A vast imperial garden mixes Japanese, French, and English styles. Also, it is a great spot during the cherry blossom seasons as it counts nearly 1,500 Sakura Trees.

Price: 200¥

• Golden Gai

A lively area where bars meet, to put it simply, where you should go if you want to experiment with the nightlife!

• Kabukicho

Kabukicho is a neon-lit, vibrant entertainment and nightlife hub that never sleeps, offering visitors a dazzling array of exploring experiences.

However, be careful when you visit Kabuchiko at night, especially when people try to get you to visit their restaurants or whatnot; you’d be in for a nasty surprise…

If you spot the Toho Cinema, you can also see Godzilla!

• Omoide Yokcho

Omoide Yokocho is a famous alley in Shinjuku where you can find various shops and restaurants. This alley is renowned for its small, traditional eateries and stalls, serving local delicacies and grilled skewers.

People love to go there at night to take Instagram photos as the narrow alley is very quaint and perfect for photos.

• Tokyo Metropolitan Building

A free observatory to get a fantastic view of the city. It’s an excellent view spot, and you must check it out if you’re in Shinjuku.

On a clear day, if you’re lucky, you can also see Mt. Fuji and collect the free stamp you can find there!

• Check out the 3D Cat Billboard.

You need to watch the adorable 3D cat billboard! It captures the attention of passersby with its lifelike and playful feline antics, seamlessly blending art and technology in the city’s heart.

• Hanazono Shrine

Hanazono Shrine is a serene oasis amidst the urban hustle and bustle, offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into traditional Japanese spirituality with its beautiful torii gates and vibrant seasonal festivals.

• Isetan Department Store

It’s one of the places you need to go if you want to shop for luxury and designer goods at the renowned Isetan Department Store and explore the extensive food basement for gourmet delights.

Top things to do in Minato-Ku

Minato City (Minato-ku) in Tokyo, Japan, is a dynamic area with a mix of modernity, historic landmarks, and natural beauty.

Access: Yamanote Line, Hamamatsuchô

• Tokyo Tower

One of the best views of the city! However, the Tokyo Tower is slightly losing popularity to the Tokyo SkyTree. Despite this, I still decided to visit it as my friend, and I wanted to see the One Piece amusement Park and Café.

• Zozo-Ji Shrine

Zozô-Ji is a different kind of shrine, as many were built to pay tribute to the deaths. You can find a mausoleum and an unborn child’s garden there.

Roppongi

Access: Yamanote Line, Roppongi

Roppongi is a business neighbour. You can find many foreigners, bars and luxury shops like Louis Vuitton.

Best Things To Do In Odaiba

Odaiba is located in the Koto-Ward, but chances are you have never heard of Koto if you are in the process of planning your first time in Tokyo.

Access: Depending on which part of Odaiba you want to see, there’s a lot of access.

Odaiba is an artificial island built around 1853 for defensive purposes (Daiba meaning fortress) and then expanded during the 20th century to the artificial island we know today. It’s a modern place full of entertaining complexes and malls.

• Palette Town / Ferris wheel

Palette Town is an entertainment complex comprising a shopping mall, an amusement park, a Ferris Wheel and even a Toyota Showroom.

• Giant Gundam

The title says it all: Gundam is a pretty popular anime in Japan. You can get to experience the impressive sight of a giant unicorn Gundam; it also moves during different times of the day.

• JoyPolis

A giant indoor amusement park, including roller coasters and a haunted house. Also, it is a shooting game based on the anime Psycho-Pass.

• Rainbow Bridge / Artificial Beach

At night, you can see the Rainbow Bridge from the Decks. And if you want to walk on the beach, you can do that in Odaiba; however, swimming is forbidden.

• TeamLab

You can find many more Shopping malls, such as DiverCity Tokyo Plaza (which even has a concert venue inside), Aquacity, and Tokyo Decks Beach.

Best Things To Do In Ikebukuro

Located in Toshima-Ku, Ikebukuro is an animated and entertainment-related neighbour associated with owls. A lot of department stores and anime-related shops can be found there.

Access: Yamanote Line, Ikebukuro

• Ikefukurō-zō 

Owl statues are located near the centre of Ikebukuro.

• Sunshine City

For this reason, one of the biggest shopping/restaurants/aquarium/Pokemon Center complexes is also called “a city within a city”. It’s a perfect shopping location! To visit it from end to end could take you the whole day.

• Pokemon Center and Pokemon Sweets

As I stated above, you can find the Pokemon Center in Sunshine City. There are a few Pokemon centres scattered across Tokyo; you don’t need to check them all out as they have similar items, but it’s fun to do! They all have different main Pokemon as their entry decoration.

Also, if you didn’t snatch a reservation for the Pokemon Café (it’s quite a challenge), you can still try the Pokemon sweets in Ikebukuro.

Note: There is also an ongoing collaboration with Pokemon at Pronto cafe (oct 2023). You can try cute Pokemon drinks and dishes without a reservation.

Top Things To Do In Sumida-Ku

• Tokyo SkyTree

Higher than the Tokyo Tower at 495 meters, the Tokyo SkyTree is also a great way to get a bird’s view of the city.

There are two decks in the tower; you can either access one or both, depending on what ticket you choose to buy. I highly recommend buying your tickets ahead of time as the tickets sell fast, and it isn’t uncommon to arrive and see that all the tickets for the day are entirely sold out.

There is a huge shopping complex at the bottom of the tower as well, and one of the various Pokemon Centers that you can find in Tokyo is also located there.

Access: Asakusa Line, Oshiage

Top Things To Do In Taito-Ku

Asakusa

Access: Asakusa Line, Asakusa

Asakusa is the traditional neighbour of Tokyo and one of the most beautiful, with many shrines/temples. And the perfect area to find some conventional Japanese souvenirs. The best way to explore Asakusa is to take your time and wander around.

The most famous temples and shrines in Asakusa are :

• Senso-ji Temple (浅草寺)
  Asakusa’s most famous and iconic temple, Senso-ji, is Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, dating back to the 7th century. The vibrant Kaminarimon Gate, Thunder Gate, welcomes visitors through Nakamise Shopping Street to the main hall and the impressive five-story pagoda.
  The incense-filled atmosphere, the iconic Thunder Gate, the main hall (Hondo), and the Nakamise-dori shopping street. Exploring Senso-ji and its surroundings is a great experience when you visit Tokyo.
  
  Tips: it gets incredibly crowded fast due to the popularity of Asakusa. Make sure to visit early. The shops on the shopping street don’t open early however I highly recommend considering a walk either at sunrise or late at night when the place quiets down, it’s beautiful at night.

• Asakusa Kannondo Temple (浅草観音堂)
  Also known as the Asakusa Kannon Temple, this temple is dedicated to the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Kannon. While overshadowed by Senso-ji, it holds its charm with a smaller, more intimate setting.
  The Kannon deity statue, serene garden, and a quieter ambience compared to Senso-ji.

• Imado Shrine (今戸神社)
  While technically located just outside the Asakusa district, Imado Shrine is noteworthy for its connection to the famous “maneki-neko” (beckoning cat) figurines. It’s believed to bring good luck and fortune to its owners.
  
• Asakusa Shrine (浅草神社):
  Located just next to Senso-ji, Asakusa Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the three men who founded Senso-ji. It contrasts with the bustling atmosphere of Senso-ji, offering a more serene and intimate space for prayer and reflection.

Here are more activities to do in Asakusa:

• Asakusa Hanayashiki
  Asakusa Hanayashiki, Japan’s oldest amusement park in Tokyo’s Asakusa district, offers a nostalgic atmosphere with traditional Japanese architecture, classic rides, and seasonal events. Visitors can enjoy a mix of modern amusements and historical charm in this iconic park, which has entertained guests since 1853.

• Asakusa Hanakawado Park
  Take a leisurely stroll in this peaceful park, known for its cherry blossoms in spring and a serene escape from the bustling streets.

• Asakusa Rox Department Store
  Shop for souvenirs and experience modern Japanese retail at this popular shopping complex.

• Asakusa Kagetsudo Honten
  Indulge in a classic Japanese treat by trying the famous melon pan (sweet bread) at Kagetsudo, a historic bakery in Asakusa.

Plenty of rickshaw tours are available around the area if you’d like to enjoy the neighbourhood differently.

Ueno

Access: Yamanote Line, Ueno

• Ueno Park

• Ueno Zoo: Japan’s oldest zoo, featuring various animals, including giant pandas. However, I wouldn’t recommend it; while I generally don’t visit zoos, I went there in 2015 to see the panda, and I felt sorry and wrong for all the animals.
• Tokyo National Museum of Science and Nature: Explore one of Japan’s most significant museums, with a vast collection of art and historical artefacts. You can find one of the Pokemon manholes next to the giant wall!
• Shinobazu Pond: Enjoy a stroll around this serene pond, home to lotus flowers in the summer. You can also find a boating area to ride a pedalboat!
• Ueno Toshogu Shrine: A beautifully ornate Shinto shrine with intricate carvings and architecture.

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• Ueno Onshi Park

A quieter alternative to Ueno Park, this garden features lovely ponds and cherry blossoms and is perfect for a peaceful walk.

• Ueno Daibutsu

Visit this bronze statue of Buddha in Ueno Park, which dates back to the Edo period.

• Ameya-Yokocho Market

Also known as “Ameyoko,” this bustling market offers a wide range of products, from clothing to street food, and is an excellent place for bargain shopping.

• Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street

I first went to Yanaka when I arrived back in August; I had never been before, and what a shame!
I loved exploring this charming, traditional shopping street with small shops, cafes, and a nostalgic atmosphere. It’s a great place to add to your Tokyo bucket list if you like more traditional areas.

• Ueno Taishogun Shopping Street

Make sure also to check out this shopping street! This historic shopping street offers a glimpse into traditional Tokyo, with its shops selling Japanese sweets, crafts, and antiques.

• Nezu Shrine

Another famous shrine close to Uneo, this Shinto shrine is renowned for its beautiful vermilion torii gates and serene gardens.

Top Things to Do in Chiyoda-Ku

• Tokyo Imperial Palace “Kôkyo”
  
• A landmark of Japan, the Imperial Palace is the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. You can only visit the two gardens, which I didn’t get to do as it was closed when I went.

Akihabara

Access: Yamanote Line Akihabara

Akihabara, or as they informally call it, “Akiba”, is the tech neighbour of Tokyo; if you’re looking for new technologies or second-hand shops, this is the place to go.

Akiba is also famous for its anime and video game culture. You can find a giant Sega Game Centre in Tokyo there!

• Super Potato

Check out the oldest arcade in Tokyo and return in time to visit this fantastic old arcade in Akihabara.

I don’t have any recommendations per se for Akihabara. It is worth exploring the whole neighbourhood as the atmosphere differs from the other neighbours in Tokyo.
Besides, if you’d like to try a Maid Café, you’ll find the best option in Akihabara.

Fun Day Trips To Take From Tokyo

Alright, I won’t go into much depth here about the best day trips to take from Tokyo (even though some of them are in Tokyo, Tokyo is so vast it can take a while to reach some places!)

If you spend seven days in Tokyo or more, then a day trip is a great idea to see and experience more than the central parts of Tokyo.

 Here are some other incredible day trips you can take from Tokyo: 

• Nikko – A great day trip from Tokyo with raw nature and fantastic architecture – check out a more detailed guide about Nikko here!
• Kamakura – A quaint coastal town near Tokyo where you can find the well-known Buddha statue.
• Hakone –  A famous place for its Onsen and iconic view of Mt Fuji.
• Fuji-san – For this one, it’s pretty apparent that you get to see Mt Fuji and the lakes and more around!
• Yokohama – A very easy day trip from Tokyo to admire Minato Mirai and check out the Gundam Factory or ride the ferry wheel.
• Mt Takao – A very nice hike (or cable car if you don’t feel like hiking) to get to a beautiful viewpoint while passing temples and nature.
• Disneyland Tokyo is a must-do day trip for Disney lovers; while the rides are tame than their counterparts in the world, the decorations and vibe of Disneyland Tokyo are incredible.

Are you looking for a day-to-day itinerary? Then check out this great 5 days in Tokyo itinerary!

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What and where to eat in Tokyo:

Foods to try in Tokyo/Japan :

• Ramen

Ramen and curry are my favourite foods globally; I could eat them every day if I were allowed to do so.

Ramen is a bowl of noodles soaking in ramen soup and various toppings. They’re often also offered with gyoza (dumplings).

And guess what? The ramen comes in a different style in each part of Japan, so you can have another ramen if you travel around Japan.

• Sushi

Sushi is probably the first thing people think about when thinking about Japanese food in Western countries.

A little side note: if you want to dip your sushi in soy sauce, you need to lower the fish, not the rice! But usually, it isn’t required as it ruins the taste of the fresh fish.

• Gyudon

Gyudon is an effortless dish of rice with beef meat and melted cheese. It is very simple, as I said, but delicious and filling!

Takoyaki :

Takoyaki are octopus balls! They’re originally from Osaka, but you can find them all around Japan!

• Japanese Curry :

Right, so curry isn’t Japanese, so to speak; however, the Japanese have developed their version of curry, which is softer than the Indian curry (you can get a spicy one, too, if you wish).
There are different versions.

Japanese Desert you need to try in Japan :

Mochi :

Mochi is a sweet rice cake. The texture is quite sticky but pretty yummy. In my opinion, you can also find frozen mochi; they taste slightly better.
Traditionally, people eat mochi for the New, but you can eat them all year round.

Taiyaki : 

Taiyaki are fish-shaped cakes, a classic street snack in Japan, warm and soft with red bean filling. Or ice cream filling.

Matcha :

Matcha is a green powder. It is pretty popular in Japan; there are a lot of desserts made out of matcha.
Matcha is a hit or miss; you either love or hate it. Personally…it’s a miss for me. However, if you have never tried it, you have to!

Things To Know About Restaurants in Tokyo, Japan

• First, you need to know that tipping is not a thing in Japan, so there is no need to tip!

• Also, many restaurants, instead of having water on display, have cold tea; it can be surprising initially if you don’t expect it!

•   Most display plastic dishes to show you what they serve outside in the front window.

• It’s standard for most restaurants to order from a machine (outside or inside the restaurant) and hand over your ticket at the counter; there is no language issue this way.

Except when the machine doesn’t display images and is written only in Kanji, then it’s tricky.

• Lastly, the size in Japan is very different in many restaurants. For example, a medium pizza in Japan would be European kid-sized.

Cheap Chain Restaurants :

Looking back, I spend most of my travel eating at the most affordable cost, aside from maybe 3-5 times; otherwise, I’d have exploded my budget quickly.
Everything is good there; you want to order and eat everything if you don’t restrain yourself.

So, I mainly have cheap restaurant recommendations! Inexpensive but with good food! It is also effortless to find across Tokyo.

Genki Sushi

Genki Sushi is a cheap sushi restaurant with a bit of a twist. You order on a tablet, and the foods arrive on little trays that roll to you! It’s fun, to be honest; it’s cheap and has decent taste. You can’t expect the best sushi for the price, but it’s a fun experience!

Sukiya

It’s probably my favourite one; you can find Sukiya nearly anywhere. They make delicious gyudon and curry.

Freshness Burger 

It’s all in the title! A lovely little burger shop. I recommend their fish burger; it’s delicious.

CoCo Ichiban 

CoCo Ichiban is the place you need if you fancy a curry. They do a delicious and cheap curry. You can find Katsu Curry (fried chicken) and many more, and you can custom add whatever toppings you want in your curry. I love it.

Saizeria

Saizeria is essentially an Italian chain restaurant; a few are in Tokyo. The food is decent and at reasonable prices.

BONUS EAT:

Did you know you could also find some delicious chocolate in Tokyo? While Tokyo might not be the first city that pops into your mind regarding chocolate, you can see some delightful chocolate there. Check out the best chocolate makers in Tokyo!

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Also, if you’re on a budget, you should know that every night, convenience stores (konbini) have discounts on bento boxes and sushi so that you can get a meal for pretty cheap, around 200 yen to 700 yen.

And no worries, if you don’t have a microwave where you’re staying, they can heat your meal if needed. Sometimes, they also have a dedicated sitting area where you can eat.

I adore konbini. They have a lot of excellent cheap food (bento, onigiri, fried chicken and whatnot) Plus, if you have never tried a Japanese egg sandwich, then you have to; I swear by those, and I never found an egg sandwich as good in Europe!

Other types of restaurants in Tokyo :

You’ll surely enjoy themed restaurants if you want to try something a little out of the ordinary. Some very famous ones are the PompomPurin Cafe in Harajuku and the Baratie, inspired by the anime One Piece in Odaiba or anything Pokemon-related.

Check this post for more information on themed restaurants!

Tokyo, and Japan generally, is very popular with animal Cafés (Cat, rabbit, owl, etc.). However, I do not recommend them. While some may genuinely care for the pets, they are unethical and put so much pressure on them for no reason other than people’s enjoyment without considering their comfort.

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Do you think owls enjoy being awake all day for people to take photos with them?

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Want more inspiration? Check out those Tokyo Quotes or those Japan Quotes!

Things to know before you visit Tokyo:

Currency: Yen ¥

You can either change your money before your trip or withdraw there.
Just check beforehand how much your bank charges when you withdraw money abroad or if you can subscribe to a travel option to avoid fees! I feel that sometimes it’s a little bit better to draw directly.

Japanese don’t use their card as much as we do in the Western world. It’s more common to pay for everything with cash (or using “pay pay” or such), so you prefer some money over a credit card,d especially if you go to small joints or small shops; they most likely only accept cash. Also, you’ll need cash to recharge your IC card, as machines usually only take cash.

Cards can also charge you a fee, so paying with them is not the best.

I recommend using a Revolut card to pay abroad without any fees. I used mine twice in Japan, making it much easier to withdraw or pay without getting charged bank fees.

Adaptor: Japanese power sockets are of type A and B, so you will need an adaptor unless you’re from the U.S.A.

Do you need to know how to speak Japanese? 

You don’t need to know how to speak Japanese per se; as long as you stay in the capital/touristy spot, you’ll always find someone who can help you. Signs aren’t only written in Japanese (Kanji), so it’s okay. Besides, with the Olympic Games of 2020, more and more of the complexes and shops in Tokyo are trying to be more English-friendly.
However, while it might not be needed, I believe it’s always nice to know a few basics of the country you’re visiting, such as thank you, etc.

However, I recommend Minna No Nihongo if you want to learn Japanese. It’s in Japanese, but you can buy the Translation and grammatical Notes to go with it! We used them at Uni, and I can guarantee you they’re fantastic! You can also check the best resources to learn Japanese by yourself. 

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And this successfully concludes my Complete Tokyo Travel Guide for first-timers! Now, you have all the best Tokyo travel tips you need to know to perfect your very own trip.

But make sure to remember that if you feel too overwhelmed by the planning, don’t stress it out. Just list places you want to visit, go with the flow, and have fun! Your first trip to Tokyo is an exciting thing, after all!

Hopefully, this guide will help you to organise your first time in Tokyo and thoroughly enjoy it! If you have any more questions, let me know in the comment below 🙂

Did you find this travel guide helpful? Please share it on Pinterest!
Complete travel guide for the first time in Tokyo, Japan

A little disclaimer: I am by no means an expert; this is all based on my own experience and research during my trips to Tokyo 🙂 

✈ Best Travel Ressources To Plan Your Next Trip

If you need help planning your next trip, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered! Here are my favourite websites and apps to plan a trip!

✈ How To Find Flights?

My favourite website for booking flights is Skyscanner; it is a good comparator for finding the cheapest flights.
Google Flight is also a good help when it comes to comparing flights.

✈ Where To Book Accommodations?

The best sites to book accommodations are Booking.com or Expedia. They both allow you to collect points for a discount; it’s worth comparing the two as they often have different pricing for the same hotels.

Another perk of Booking.com and Expedia is that you can sometimes get bundle deals for flights and accommodations, which can help you save a lot of money.

✈ Best Sites To Book Activities

My go-to website when I need to book an activity is GetYourGuide when I can’t get a ticket directly on the website or if it’s easier to go through them.
I always check if the price is the same, though, as the whole point is for it to be easier but not more expensive.

You can also check out Klook if you need to book more than just activities and would like to get everything from the same website—(i.e. transport cards, car rental, hotel…).

✈ Other helpful travel resources

– Radical Storage: If you need a place to keep your luggage for an extended period when you travel, I recommend using them. It was a great help when we needed a place to keep our luggage safely while we left the city for a few days.
– TheTrainline: If you love to travel by train like me, then TheTrainline needs to be your go-to website for train travel in Europe. It is very reliant and easy to use.

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Disclaimer: This resources box contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you book anything through my links at no additional cost. These links help me support the blog and generate more content. Happy travels!

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✈ Best Travel Ressources To Plan Your Next Trip

If you need help planning your next trip, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered! Here are my favourite websites and apps to plan a trip!

✈ How To Find Flights?

My favourite website for booking flights is Skyscanner; it is a good comparator for finding the cheapest flights.
Google Flight is also a good help when it comes to comparing flights.

✈ Where To Book Accommodations?

The best sites to book accommodations are Booking.com or Expedia. They both allow you to collect points for a discount; it’s worth comparing the two as they often have different pricing for the same hotels.

Another perk of Booking.com and Expedia is that you can sometimes get bundle deals for flights and accommodations, which can help you save a lot of money.

✈ Best Sites To Book Activities

My go-to website when I need to book an activity is GetYourGuide when I can’t get a ticket directly on the website or if it’s easier to go through them.
I always check if the price is the same, though, as the whole point is for it to be easier but not more expensive.

You can also check out Klook if you need to book more than just activities and would like to get everything from the same website—(i.e. transport cards, car rental, hotel…).

✈ Other helpful travel resources

– Radical Storage: If you need a place to keep your luggage for an extended period when you travel, I recommend using them. It was a great help when we needed a place to keep our luggage safely while we left the city for a few days.
– TheTrainline: If you love to travel by train like me, then TheTrainline needs to be your go-to website for train travel in Europe. It is very reliant and easy to use.

————————————————————————————————————-

Disclaimer: This resources box contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you book anything through my links at no additional cost. These links help me support the blog and generate more content. Happy travels!

Hey there! This post may contain affiliate links. It means I earn a bit of money if you purchase products through me, there is no extra cost to you and it helps me maintain this blog. Read more in my Privacy Policy