Start your Tokyo experience by visiting one of the busiest intersections in the world, Shibuya Crossing. Witness the chaos and embrace the vibrant energy of the city. Afterward, visit one of the tallest buildings in Tokyo, the Shibuya Scramble Square, for a panoramic view of the city from the observation deck.
Located in the lush greenery of Yoyogi Park, the Meiji Jingu Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It's a perfect place to relax and to feel the spiritual peacefulness of the Japanese culture. Take a stroll through the surrounding forest and immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the shrine.
Get an early start and head to Tsukiji Fish Market, one of the world's largest fish markets. Observe the bustling atmosphere, try some of the fresh seafood and learn how the traditional Japanese auction takes place. In the afternoon, visit the Imperial Palace, located in the center of Tokyo, and stroll through the East Garden, admiring the remaining architectural beauty of the Edo period.
Head to Tokyo SkyTree, the tallest tower in the world, standing at 634 meters. Enjoy the panoramic view of Tokyo from the observation deck or have lunch in one of the many restaurants on the premises. As a unique experience, visit Asakusa, with its small shops and Nakamise-dori where you can find Japanese souvenirs, anything from katanas to kimonos.
Harajuku is known for its flashy and unique street fashion, particularly the Harajuku girls. Visit the famous Takeshita street, full of interesting shops and cafes, and treat yourself to something sweet at a themed café like the Kawaii Monster Café. Finish your trip to Tokyo by visiting the trendy and upscale boutiques of Omotesando before catching your flight back home.
Tokyo has a vast network of trains and buses, making it relatively easy to navigate. A prepaid Suica or Pasmo card can be used on different modes of transportation or taxis. For those wanting to avoid public transport, renting a bike is a popular option to explore the city. Average travel costs will range between $5-10, depending on the distance and mode of transportation.
If you have more time, consider visiting places like Akihabara for its various anime shops, or Ueno for its museums and the Ueno park. For a more natural nature-filled experience, try Mount Fuji. For those really short on time, restricting such an itinerary to 3 days is also possible with minimal drop outs.
The primary airport serving Tokyo is Narita International Airport (NRT), located 60 km east of Tokyo city center. Haneda International Airport (HND) is the secondary airport located in Ota City, only 25 km away from the city center.