4-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Tokyo

  1. Day 1: Asakusa, Ueno, and Akihabara
    Estimated travel time and distance: 1 hour and 30 minutes (6.5 km) from Narita International Airport

    Start the day by visiting the Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo's oldest and most significant temple. Next, head over to Ueno Park to check out its numerous attractions such as the Tokyo National Museum and Ueno Zoo. In the afternoon, visit Akihabara Electric Town known for its electronics shops and anime culture.

  2. Day 2: Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya Crossing
    Estimated travel time and distance: 45 minutes (15 km) from Asakusa

    In the morning, visit the Meiji Shrine which is dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife Empress Shōken. Then, walk to Harajuku to explore the local fashion and street food scene. Conclude the day by visiting the world-famous Shibuya Crossing and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

  3. Day 3: Tsukiji Fish Market, Odaiba, and Ginza
    Estimated travel time and distance: 1 hour and 15 minutes (15 km) from Shibuya Crossing

    Begin the day early by visiting the Tsukiji Fish Market to witness the exciting tuna auction and try various seafood dishes. In the afternoon, head over to Odaiba to enjoy scenic views of the Tokyo Bay and visit the artificial beach Odaiba Marine Park. Finally, visit the high-end fashion district of Ginza, and don't miss the famous Wako department store.

  4. Day 4: Imperial Palace, Yasukuni Shrine, and Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    Estimated travel time and distance: 45 minutes (11 km) from Ginza

    Begin the day by visiting the Imperial Palace, which is the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. Next, visit the controversial war shrine Yasukuni Shrine, dedicated to those who died serving Japan. End the day by strolling through the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a perfect spot to relax and enjoy Japan's natural beauty.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Sensō-ji Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Tokyo National Museum (2 hours, ¥620)
  • Ueno Zoo (2-3 hours, ¥600)
  • Akihabara Electric Town (2-3 hours, free)
  • Meiji Shrine (1 hour, free)
  • Harajuku (2-3 hours, free)
  • Tsukiji Fish Market (2-3 hours, free)
  • Odaiba Marine Park (1 hour, free)
  • Ginza shopping (2-3 hours, varies)
  • Imperial Palace (1-2 hours, free)
  • Yasukuni Shrine (1-2 hours, free)
  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (1-2 hours, ¥500)

  • Total Estimated Costs: ¥1720 (approx. $16 USD)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting Mount Fuji or Disneyland Tokyo. For a more historical trip, add a visit to Hiroshima or Kamakura. If you plan to visit during springtime, don't forget to visit the beautiful cherry blossom spots across Tokyo. If you have less time, consider shortening the visits to some destinations or skipping some altogether to save time.

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