Sensō-ji Temple, located in Asakusa, is the oldest temple in Tokyo and a popular tourist spot. It features a large red gate and a bustling market street. From there, head to Ueno Park, which is home to a zoo, several museums, and even a small amusement park. The park also features cherry blossom trees and lotus ponds, making it a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
Tokyo Disneyland is a must-visit for families with children. This theme park features classic Disney attractions and rides, as well as parades and live entertainment shows. Be sure to check the schedule ahead of time and plan accordingly.
Odaiba is an artificial island in Tokyo Bay that offers a variety of activities for families. Check out the Gundam statue, the Miraikan Science Museum, and the giant Ferris wheel for great views of the Tokyo skyline. There's also a large shopping mall on the island with plenty of dining options.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a beautiful oasis in the middle of Tokyo. It features different types of gardens, including a traditional Japanese garden and an English garden. After that, head to Tokyo Tower, a landmark tower that offers great views of the city. At night, the tower is illuminated, making for a stunning sight.
Start the day with a visit to a sumo wrestling tournament or stable. This traditional Japanese sport is fascinating to watch and learn about. In the afternoon, head to Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in Japan. The observation deck offers panoramic views of Tokyo, and there's also a shopping mall and aquarium at the base of the tower.
Travelers should consider purchasing a JR Pass, which provides unlimited access to Japan Railways trains and buses throughout the country. For local transportation in Tokyo, the Suica or Pasmo card is the most convenient option for using the subway and buses. Taxis are also readily available, but quite expensive.
Estimated transportation costs: ¥30,000-¥40,000 for a 5-day JR Pass, ¥1,000-¥2,000 for a Suica or Pasmo card, ¥10,000-¥20,000 for taxis
If you have more time, consider visiting other popular tourist spots like Harajuku and Shibuya for shopping, Tsukiji Fish Market for fresh seafood, and Meiji Shrine for a traditional Shinto experience. If you have less time, consider skipping some of the activities, such as sumo wrestling or Tokyo Skytree, to avoid feeling rushed.
Tokyo has two major airports: Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND). Narita Airport is located about 60 kilometers from the city center and is the primary international gateway to Tokyo. Haneda Airport is located closer to the city center and mainly serves domestic flights, as well as some international flights to Asia and North America.