Memorable Japanese Adventure: Tokyo to Matsumoto Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on May 22, 2025

1:00pm

Arrival at Narita International Airport

Arrive in Tokyo and clear customs. Collect your luggage and purchase a Suica or Pasmo card for convenient public transport.
JPY0, 1h

2:30pm

Check-in at Hotel

Head to your hotel in central Tokyo, preferably near Shinjuku or Shibuya for easy access to attractions.
JPY0, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Visit this beautiful garden open till 4:30pm. It's a peaceful green space to unwind after your flight and enjoy some early cherry blossoms or seasonal flowers.
JPY500, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho

Enjoy classic Japanese izakaya dining at this lively alley with small eateries in Shinjuku. Try yakitori and local sake.
JPY1500, 1h

7:00pm

Stroll Through Kabukicho

Explore Tokyo's vibrant nightlife district, soaking in the neon lights and energetic atmosphere.
JPY0, 1h

Day 2: Cultural Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your day with fresh sushi and traditional Japanese breakfast dishes at various stalls open from 5am to 2pm.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo's oldest temple and walk along the vibrant Nakamise shopping street selling traditional crafts and snacks.
JPY0, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Asakusa Kagetsudo

Try the famous melonpan (sweet bread) and tempura in a quaint local eatery.
JPY1000, 1h

1:30pm

Sumida River Cruise

Take a 40-minute cruise from Asakusa to Odaiba for views of Tokyo skyline and the Rainbow Bridge.
JPY1200, 45m

2:30pm

Explore Odaiba

Visit teamLab Borderless digital art museum (10am-7pm) and enjoy shopping and seaside views.
JPY3200, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Odaiba

This restaurant inspired the Kill Bill movie; enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine with ocean views.
JPY2500, 1h

Day 3: Modern Tokyo & Shopping

Tokyo, Japan on May 24, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Bills Omotesando

Known for excellent pancakes and fresh coffee, Bills opens from 8am to 5pm.
JPY1500, 1h

10:00am

Visit Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park

Discover this peaceful shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and enjoy Yoyogi Park’s natural beauty.
JPY0, 1.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Harajuku Takeshita Street

Explore trendy eateries and try crepes or Japanese street food on this famous fashion street.
JPY1200, 1h

1:30pm

Shopping in Omotesando

Visit upscale boutiques and flagship stores in Tokyo’s stylish Omotesando district.
JPY0, 2h

4:00pm

Explore Shibuya Crossing and Surrounds

Enjoy the iconic scramble crossing and visit nearby Shibuya 109 for fashion shopping.
JPY0, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Uobei Shibuya

Experience high-tech conveyor belt sushi in a fun and affordable setting, open until 11pm.
JPY2000, 1h

Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

Nikko, Japan on May 25, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Nikko

Catch the Tobu Railway from Asakusa to Nikko (approx 2 hours).
JPY2500, 2h

9:30am

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Visit the lavish UNESCO World Heritage site with ornate architecture and the famous 'Sleeping Cat' carving. Open 8am–5pm.
JPY1300, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Hippari Dako

Enjoy local Nikko specialties like yuba (tofu skin) and tempura in a cosy eatery.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Kegon Falls and Chuzenji Lake

Visit the stunning 97m waterfall and enjoy lakeside views at scenic Chuzenji Lake, accessible by bus.
JPY1000, 2h

4:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Take the train back to Tokyo for an evening at leisure.
JPY2500, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen Shibuya

Relax with a bowl of rich tonkotsu ramen at this popular 24-hour chain.
JPY1000, 1h

Day 5: Travel to Matsumoto

Tokyo to Matsumoto, Japan on May 26, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or Local Café

Enjoy a Japanese-style or western breakfast near your accommodation before travel.
JPY1000, 1h

11:00am

Last-minute Tokyo Sightseeing or Shopping

Visit a nearby local market or shop for souvenirs in Tokyo before departure.
JPY0, 1.5h

1:00pm

Travel to Matsumoto by Train

Take the JR Azusa limited express from Shinjuku to Matsumoto. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.
JPY5700, 2h30m

3:30pm

Check-in and Explore Matsumoto

Check into your hotel in Matsumoto and enjoy a gentle walk around the city.
JPY0, 1h

5:00pm

Visit Matsumoto Castle

Explore one of Japan’s most beautiful original castles. Open until 5pm, last admission 4:30pm.
JPY700, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Kaede

Savour soba noodles and local Nagano cuisine at this well-reviewed restaurant near the castle.
JPY2000, 1h