5-Day Tokyo Itinerary: My Favorite Sights & Eats

Tokyo is one of those cities that can feel overwhelming to plan for since there’s just so much to do, see, and eat!

After spending five days exploring Tokyo on my recent trip to Japan, I put together this detailed 5-Day Tokyo itinerary to help you see some of the best neighborhoods, top sights, and delicious food spots without feeling rushed.

This itinerary covers exactly what I did and loved, plus a few extra recommendations to add if you want to pack in more.

I’ve also included practical tips on where to stay, how to get around, and other things that helped me make the most of our time in Tokyo, especially if it’s your first time visiting.

5-Day Tokyo Itinerary

I have pinned all the spots from this itinerary on a Google Map so you can easily plan each day and get directions.

➡️ If you are planning a shorter trip, my 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary is a simpler version of how I explored the city’s main neighborhoods and can help you adjust your 5-day plan.

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Shinjuku

Land in Tokyo (Most Likely Haneda Airport)

If you’re flying into Tokyo, you will most likely be arriving at Haneda Airport (HND).

It is located just 30–45 minutes from central Tokyo by public transit. It’s the most convenient option for getting into the city quickly after a long flight.

The other major airport, Narita Airport (NRT), is farther away, about 60–90 minutes from central Tokyo on the Narita Express or Keisei Skyliner. These are the fastest options, but they do cost more than just using public transit. 

If you’re looking to save money, local trains are cheaper but will take longer.

We landed at Haneda Airport at 1:55 PM and aimed to stay awake until at least 8:00–9:00 PM to help fight off jet lag. We managed to do it, and after that, adjusting to our normal sleep schedule was surprisingly easy, even with the 13-hour time difference.

💡Tip: If prices are similar, book a flight into Haneda to save yourself the extra travel time. However, if flying into Narita is significantly cheaper, it might be worth it. Just remember to factor in the longer commute after landing especially if you’re arriving late at night.

💡Tip: If you have an iPhone, add a Suica card to your Apple Wallet before your trip. It makes it really easy to reload your balance and tap on and off trains and buses using just your phone, so you do not need to carry a physical card. If you do not have an iPhone, you can buy a physical Suica card when you arrive at the airport. When your balance runs low, simply reload it at any train station ticket machine.

Withdraw Cash from 7-Eleven ATM

I recommend withdrawing some yen at a 7-Eleven ATM soon after you arrive so you have cash on hand.

These ATMs accept most international cards, are open 24/7, and usually offer good exchange rates. I have heard 7-Eleven ATMs are the best for exchange rates so that is why we went there!

They’re also easy to use and can be switched to your native language.

During our 18-day trip, we used 20,000 yen mostly at small restaurants, food stalls, and markets where cards were not accepted. While many places in Tokyo do take credit cards, cash is still needed for smaller shops, street vendors, and temple fees.

When the ATM asks whether to charge you in yen or your home currency, always select yen. This way, your bank handles the conversion, giving you a better rate than the ATM’s and saving you money, especially if you’re withdrawing larger amounts.

Grab Dinner from Ramen Tatsunoya Shinjuku Otakibashidori

After checking into your hotel, you will probably be ready for a meal like we were! 

I recommend heading straight to Ramen Tatsunoya Shinjuku Otakibashidori for some of the best ramen in Tokyo.

They specialize in tonkotsu ramen with a creamy pork bone broth and thin noodles. 

The ordering system is a vending machine at the door, and they have English menus, which is very convenient! If there’s a wait, you will line up outside and a staff member will call you in when it’s your turn to order.

The restaurant has counter seating and accepts credit cards, which is helpful if you haven’t withdrawn cash yet.

This was one of the best ramen we had during our trip and is a great way to start your Tokyo food experience.

Walk Around Omoide Yokocho

After dinner, take a walk through Omoide Yokocho, a narrow alley behind Shinjuku Station.

It’s lined with small yakitori bars, most seating only a handful of people.

Even if you’re not eating, it’s a cool place to check out and experience the unique atmosphere.

It is known for being more expensive than many other food spots in Japan, so keep that in mind if you’re planning to eat there.

If you want to join a guided bar crawl to explore hidden local spots, the Shinjuku Local Bar Crawl on Get Your Guide is a popular choice with great reviews. It starts in Omoide Yokocho and also visits Kabukicho and Golden Gai. You can book tickets here or below.

See the 3D Cat Billboard

Just outside Shinjuku Station’s east exit, you will see a giant 3D calico cat on the Cross Shinjuku Vision screen.

It is a fun thing to see and appears pretty frequently (around every 15 minutes).

I think it is definitely worth a stop to see!

Day 2: Shibuya & Harajuku

Visit Meiji Shrine

We started our day at Meiji Shrine, one of Tokyo’s most well-known shrines.

A large torii gate marks the entrance, and the walk to the shrine through the tree-lined path takes about 15-20 minutes.

You can buy a wooden ema plaque for a small fee, write your prayers or wishes on it, and hang it in the designated area at the shrine.

It is a nice area to just walk around and take in the peaceful surroundings.

The shrine buildings close around sunset, but the grounds are open all day. It was a nice, quiet break from the busy city and a good way to start the day.

It was beautiful, and the air felt fresh and clean. I really loved it there!

Grab a Coffee at Flip Flip Coffee Supply

After we visited Meiji Shrine, we walked about 20 minutes to Flip Flip Coffee Supply to grab a coffee.

I loved this coffee shop! It had a good amount of seating with tables by the open-air windows. I enjoyed sitting there with an iced latte while people-watching.

The owners were very friendly, which made the visit even better!

Visit Yoyogi Park

Close to Meiji Shrine is Yoyogi Park, one of Tokyo’s largest public parks and a popular spot for locals.

If you’re visiting during cherry blossom season, it’s a great place for flower viewing. It’s also just a nice way to spend part of your day surrounded by nature.

💡Fun Fact: It was the Olympic Village for the 1964 Summer Olympics.

Lunch at Sushiro (Conveyor Belt Sushi)

Head back toward Harajuku for lunch at Sushiro, a conveyor belt sushi chain where you order from a screen at your table and the sushi arrives right to your seat on the conveyor belt.

It’s a fun, affordable way to try a variety of sushi. They also have non-seafood options if you’re traveling with people who aren’t sushi fans.

The ordering screen can be switched to your native language, making it easy to use!

There are many Sushiro locations across Japan, so you will likely be near one during your trip.

Explore Takeshita Street

After lunch, we checked out Takeshita Street. It’s a narrow pedestrian street famous for all kinds of crazy street food and cool shops.

I saw a bunch of the trendy foods I had seen on social media, like the giant potato sticks and rainbow cotton candy.

There were even photo booth stores if you want to try the classic Japanese photo booth experience. I really enjoyed it and think it’s a great to have as a souvenir!

The area does get pretty crowded in the afternoons, especially on weekends, but that is just part of the experience in my opinion!

Walk Around Ura-Harajuku

Takeshita Street can get pretty overwhelming, so we took a turn down the side streets into Ura-Harajuku for a quieter, more relaxed vibe.

These smaller streets are full of independent shops, thrift stores, and cafes.

Here are a few of the stores we liked:

• B-Side Label Stickers: If you love stationery like I do, this place is a must. They have some really cool stickers and supplies.
• Kicks Lab: Perfect for sneaker fans. They carry Japan exclusives and limited editions.
• Jordan World of Flight: Nike’s premium Jordan store with lots of sneakers and apparel.

Shibuya Scramble Crossing

The Shibuya Scramble Crossing is one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world and a must-see when you’re in Tokyo!

Hundreds of people cross the street from every direction at the same time. It’s busiest in the evenings, so I recommend visiting then for the full experience.

To be honest, after watching videos of it, it felt a bit smaller in person than I expected. It wasn’t as overwhelming as it looks on screen, but it was still a fun experience to be part of!

If you want to see the crossing from above, here are some good spots:

1. The Starbucks on the second floor inside Shibuya Station has a great view of the crossing. This is probably the most crowded option.
2. Shibuya Scramble Square has upper floors with windows looking over the crosswalk.
3. Shibuya Sky is an open-air observation deck on top of Shibuya Scramble Square with views of the crossing and city.

Shopping in Shibuya

Shibuya is a great spot for shopping with lots of popular stores all in one area.

Here are a few stores in Shibuya we checked out:

• Pokemon Center Shibuya: This is on the 6th floor of the Parco shopping complex. The giant Mewtwo statue at the entrance is a fun photo spot. My husband, who’s a big Pokemon fan, really enjoyed exploring the store and purchased some Pokémon cards at a good price.
• Nintendo Tokyo: Right next to the Pokémon Center, this store is full of fun themed merchandise. It’s a must-visit if you’re into Nintendo!
• Village Vanguard: This shop is full of books, pop culture items, and unique gifts. It’s definitely worth a look if you like browsing.
• Muji: The Shibuya Muji is huge and has everything from home goods to stationery and travel essentials. I spent a good amount of time here, especially checking out their stationery section.
• Mega Don Quijote: This store is open 24 hours and is a bit chaotic but a lot of fun. You can find souvenirs, snacks, beauty products, toys, and pretty much everything all in one store.

Dinner at Ichiran Ramen

After a busy day, we headed to Ichiran for ramen, and it definitely lived up to the hype!

Ichiran is a popular ramen chain in Japan with several locations, so it’s pretty easy to find one near you.

You sit in individual stalls with dividers, which was unique but fun to enjoy your meal solo.

There was a line when we arrived, but it moved pretty quickly.

Walk Through Centre Gai

End your day with a walk through Centre Gai. The narrow streets are packed with izakayas, arcades, and karaoke bars.

This area is really the center of Shibuya’s nightlife and has a lively, energetic vibe!

Optional: Sunset at Shibuya Sky

If you want amazing city views, book tickets for Shibuya Sky.

It is an open-air observation deck on top of Shibuya Scramble Square. 

Sunset is popular, so make sure to purchase your tickets in advance! You can buy tickets on Klook.

Day 3: Asakusa & Ueno

Enjoy the Free View From Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center

Before you start exploring Asakusa, I highly recommend stopping by the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center for the free observation deck on the 8th floor.

It’s right across from Kaminarimon Gate, so it’s easy to find.

Take the elevator up to the top floor and you’ll get a great view looking down on Nakamise Street. It’s an awesome spot for photos.

Honestly, this might be my favorite photo from my entire trip to Japan!

Walk Along Nakamise Street & Eat Food

After the observation deck, head back down and take a walk through Nakamise Street.

It’s a small street filled with souvenir shops and food stalls, many of which have been around for generations.

Yes, it’s pretty touristy, but it’s still fun to walk through at least once. Most shops open around 10 AM.

Asakusa is one of the best neighborhoods in Tokyo for snacking while you explore, so come hungry! You can easily spend the morning/afternoon trying different street foods and sweets.

Here are some of my favorite foods I tried and a few places I heard good things about:

• Mister Donut: These donuts are popular all over Japan for a reason. They’re fluffy and light. I especially loved the strawberry flavor.
• Ginkado: You have to try the strawberry mochi here. It’s definitely a must!
• Naruto Taiyaki: Taiyaki is a classic Japanese snack. Naruto Taiyaki makes fish-shaped pastries filled with sweet red bean or custard.
• Anshinya: If you want something savory, their karaage (Japanese fried chicken) is really tasty. Just be careful, it’s served piping hot!
• Asakusa Kagetsudo: This place is famous for its melon pan, a sweet, fluffy bread with a crunchy sugar topping. There’s usually a line, but it’s worth the wait. Try it with vanilla ice cream inside!
• Hokkaido Milk Bar: They serve creamy soft-serve ice cream and milk flights here. It was really delicious!
• Imo Pippi: Don’t miss the crème brûlée sweet potato which is a roasted sweet potato topped with caramelized sugar. It’s so good!

Senso-ji Temple

At the end of Nakamise Street is Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple.

There’s a giant incense burner where people wave smoke toward themselves. It’s believed to bring good health.

Also, don’t miss trying an omikuji fortune. If you get bad luck, you can tie the paper to a metal rack nearby to leave the bad luck behind.

Denboin Street

Denboin Street is just a short walk from Nakamise and feels like a step back into time.

It’s quieter than the busy main street, which was a nice break for me.

Along the street, you will find shops selling antiques and other old-fashioned goods.

Sumida River and Park

After exploring Asakusa, I recommend walking over to the riverside path along the Sumida River. It’s a nice spot to relax and take in the views.

If you’re there in spring, the cherry blossoms along the riverbanks make the walk even better! It’s one of the best places in Tokyo to see cherry blossoms.

From the river, you will also get a great view of Tokyo Skytree in the distance.

If you want to check out the views from the top of Tokyo Skytree, I recommend purchasing your tickets in advance on Klook.

Ameyoko Market

We ended the day at Ameyoko Market, a lively street that runs under the train tracks near Ueno Station.

After WWII, it started out as a black market, but now it’s full of stalls selling everything from fresh fish and dried goods to clothes, spices, and snacks.

If you’re still hungry, this is a great place to grab takoyaki (octopus balls) or matcha ice cream. It’s busy and a little chaotic, but that’s part of the fun, and it’s great for people-watching.

💡Day 3 Tip: Asakusa and Ueno are both easy to explore on foot, but you will be walking a lot, so wear comfortable shoes. If you have time and energy, you can also head to Tokyo Skytree after Asakusa. It’s just across the river, with an observation deck.

Day 4: Tsukiji, Ginza, & Roppongi

Tsukiji Outer Market

Exploring the Tsukiji Outer Market was one of my favorite experiences in Tokyo. I had so much fun walking through the stalls and trying different types of food.

There was so much to choose from like fresh sushi and sashimi, grilled seafood skewers, and plenty of other snacks like fresh melon.

Most stalls open around 10 AM and close by 2 PM, so get there around lunch time. I just walked around and ate as I went, which was the most fun way to try different things.

The Tsukiji Fish Market is easy to explore on your own, which is what we did. But with so many stalls and food options, it can be hard to decide what to try. If you would rather have a guided experience, the Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Walking Tour on Get Your Guide is a great option with excellent reviews. You can book it here or below!

💡Tip: Bring cash because most places don’t take cards. I recommend using the 7-Eleven ATMs for the best exchange rates. When the ATM asks if you want to be charged in yen or your home currency, always choose yen.

Shopping in Ginza

After Tsukiji, you can walk or take a quick subway ride to Ginza.

Uniqlo’s flagship store here has 12 floors of clothes, accessories, and more. If you want tax-free shopping, remember to bring your passport.

If you like stationery, Ginza Itoya is worth checking out. It also has 12 floors with pens, paper, postcards, and small gifts. There’s a café on the top floor if you want to take a break.

Ginza is also home to a lot of luxury stores like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci. Ginza Six is a big mall with a mix of shops, restaurants, and a rooftop garden.

Ginza has a good mix of shopping and things to do, so it’s worth spending some time there.

Optional: Tokyo Midtown and Roppongi Hills

If you have extra time, check out the Roppongi area. Tokyo Midtown and Roppongi Hills are big complexes with shops, restaurants, and museums.

Tokyo Midtown has stores, plus the Suntory Museum of Art. There are also restaurants and an outdoor area to walk around.

Roppongi Hills offers more shopping and dining options, along with the Mori Art Museum and the Tokyo City View observation deck with great city views.

Both are good spots to explore if you want a mix of shopping and art.

Day 5: Kamakura & Enoshima Day Trip

Today is a day trip to the beautiful beachside towns of Kamakura and Enoshima.

This is a fun way to explore a different side of Tokyo. It’s a popular day trip destination, so expect crowds, but it’s a beautiful place to visit.

It takes about one hour to get to Kamakura from Tokyo by public transit. The ride is beautiful, especially as you get closer to Kamakura and start to see the ocean and more open scenery.

From Kamakura to Enoshima, it’s about 25-30 minutes on public transit.

➡️Check out my 1-Day Kamakura Itinerary for a full guide on the best things to do in Kamakura!

Start Your Day at Verve Coffee Roasters

Start your day at Verve Coffee Roasters in Kamakura! It’s a western-style coffee shop with quality coffee and great food options.

It is the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a cup of coffee, and have something to eat before starting to explore Kamakura.

Komachidori Street – Shops & Food Stalls (Opens around 10:00 AM)

After coffee, head over to Komachidori Street, the main shopping street in Kamakura.

It’s full of food stalls, souvenir shops, and small restaurants. This is a great place to try local snacks like grilled seafood and matcha treats.

Make sure to bring some cash since a lot of the stalls don’t take cards.

See the Kotoku-In (Great Buddha)

Next, visit Kotoku-In to see the Great Buddha statue, one of Kamakura’s most famous landmarks. The entrance fee is 200 yen.

The giant bronze statue is about 13 meters tall and really impressive in person!

You can also pay a small extra fee to go inside the statue. We did it, and while I don’t think it was necessarily worth the extra $, it was still a fun thing to do.

The temple grounds are peaceful, making it a nice spot to relax and take in the views.

Lunch at MOKICHI Kamakura

If you want a sit-down spot for lunch, MOKICHI Kamakura is a great choice! It’s close to Kotoku-In, so it’s an easy stop after visiting the Great Buddha.

The menu has a good variety, including pizza, pasta, and other dishes. The restaurant is in a renovated old factory building with two floors and an outdoor terrace that’s perfect if the weather is nice.

Hasedera Temple

Hasedera Temple is a great stop for its gardens and views of the coastline.

It’s known for its large statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, and has walking paths with flowers, ponds, and lookout points.

The entrance fee is 400 yen, and it’s cash only.

Enoshima Benten Bridge

Now, it’s time to head to Enoshima Island, which is about a 25 to 30-minute ride from Kamakura by public transit.

You can walk across the Enoshima Benten Bridge that connects the mainland to the island. On a clear day, the views from the bridge are stunning!

If you’re up for some exercise, you can do the 1.3-mile loop around the island using this All Trails map. The walk takes you past coastal views, caves, shrines, and gardens.

It’s a great way to see more of the island before heading back to Tokyo!

Best Places to Eat in Tokyo

One of the best parts of visiting Tokyo is trying all the amazing food!

Below are some spots we ate at and really enjoyed, plus a few others I had saved from recommendations I found on blogs and social media but didn’t get to try.

That said, don’t stress about hitting every famous restaurant. Tokyo’s food scene is incredible, and chances are you will find great meals just by exploring side streets and popping into smaller local places. That’s part of the fun!

Here are some of the best places to eat in Tokyo:

• Coffee Shops: If you’re a coffee lover like me, these spots are great!
  • TENCUPS – I recommend the pandan latte
  • Baggage Coffee – Try the salted caramel latte
  • Flip Flip Coffee Supply – Loved this spot near Meiji Shrine
  • Sedai Coffee and Roasters – Try the pistachio latte
• Breakfast: These spots serve delicious Japanese-style pancakes!
  • Ginza Rindo – Get there early before they open to stand in line
  • Micasadeco & Cafe – Very popular so expect longer wait times
• Gyoza: For delicious and affordable pan-friend dumplings, check out Gyoza no Fukuho. We loved this place!
• Burgers: If you’re craving a good burger in Tokyo, these two come highly recommended.
  • American Diner Andra – the burgers are dipped in sizzling cheese
  • The God Diner – hidden behind a vending machine with a cool retro vibe
• Tonkatsu: Tonkatsu is breaded and fried pork cutlet, and it is a super popular meal! Gyukatsu Motomura Nishi-Shinjuku Branch is highly reviewed and recommended.
• Ramen: Tokyo has no shortage of ramen spots and was our go-to meal for dinner most nights. Here are some of the ramen spots we liked!
  • Ichiran – One of my favorite spots and there are several throughout Tokyo and the rest of Japan
  • Ramen Tatsunoya Shinjuku Otakibashidōri – Our favorite ramen spot in Tokyo!
  • Ramen Afro Beats – Get the special chicken ramen
• Sushi: You can’t go to Japan without trying some sushi!
  • Omakase (chef’s choice tasting menus):
    • Sushi Punch – reservation recommended
    • Mimasu – a sweet family-run spot with great omakase
    • Shibuya Sushi Labo – 20-course meal for about $50 USD
  • Casual Sushi: Sushiro – Conveyor belt sushi, fun, and affordable
• Udon: Udon Shin – Really popular for their good udon so expect long waits. The Carbonara Udon is the most popular one.
• Okonomiyaki: Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake filled with ingredients like cabbage, meat, and noodles. I recommend going to Harajuku Okonomiyaki Yai-yai!
• Desserts:
  • Azuki to Kōri – Michelin chef-owned shaved ice dessert spot. Reservations recommended.
  • Kyle’s Good Finds – Black-owned bakery. The carrot cake is amazing!

If you want a unique experience and to learn how to make authentic sushi, I recommend joining this Authentic Sushi Making Class in Asakusa. It’s a great way to try something new and enjoy a meal you make yourself. You can book it here or below!

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Tokyo is huge, so choosing where to stay can feel overwhelming. If it’s your first time visiting, I recommend staying in either Shinjuku or Shibuya. Both are central, lively areas with easy access to public transit and plenty of dining and shopping options.

If you want something a little different, Ginza and Asakusa are great alternatives. Ginza is more upscale, known for high-end shopping and dining, while Asakusa has a charming, old-Tokyo vibe with historic streets and temples.

Here’s a quick breakdown of each area with some hotel recommendations and what you can expect:

Shinjuku

Shinjuku is a great choice if you want a mix of nightlife, shopping, and easy access to transportation. It’s one of Tokyo’s busiest neighborhoods with plenty of restaurants and bars to explore.

We chose to stay in Shinjuku because we used our Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card points to book the Hyatt Regency Tokyo.

We absolutely loved this hotel, and I highly recommend it! The hotel has been fully renovated, and the rooms are clean, comfortable, and nicely designed. Plus, the hotel gym is the nicest and biggest hotel gym I have ever seen!

The location is super convenient. It is right above a public transit station and a 7-Eleven. We often grabbed a quick breakfast from the convenience store before heading out each morning.

Even though it’s in Shinjuku, the hotel is in a quieter part of the area, so it never felt too busy or noisy.

If you’re considering staying in Shinjuku, the Hyatt Regency Tokyo is definitely a top pick. But there are also plenty of other well-reviewed hotels in the area to choose from – see below.

Places to Stay in Shinjuku:

• Tokyu Stay Shinjuku – Few blocks away from Shinjuku Station and slightly larger rooms than traditional hotel rooms in Tokyo
• Hotel Gracery Shinjuku – Close to Shinjuku Station and has a large Godzilla head on top of the hotel
• Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo By IHG – Luxury hotel located near Meiji Shrine

Check out this interactive map below for more places to stay in Shinjuku!

Shibuya

Shibuya has a energetic vibe and is packed with dining spots, shopping, and entertainment.

It’s a great area if you want to be in the middle of Tokyo’s trendiest neighborhoods.

Places to Stay in Shibuya:

• Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya – Spacious rooms with laundry in the room
• Hotel Century Southern Tower – Close to Shinjuku station
• Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku – Small rooms but clean & comfortable

Check out this interactive map below for more places to stay in Shibuya!

Ginza

If you prefer something more upscale and a bit calmer, Ginza is ideal.

It’s known for its luxury shopping and fancy restaurants.

Hotels in the Ginza area tend to be more expensive too so keep that in mind.

Places to Stay in Ginza:

• Hyatt Centric Ginza Tokyo – Spacious rooms with unique decor
• Millennium Mitsui Garden Hotel Tokyo – Located just outside of the train station and close to the major shopping area
• Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier – Great location & comfortable rooms

Check out this interactive map below for more places to stay in Ginza!

Asakusa

For a more traditional Tokyo experience, Asakusa is a wonderful choice.

It has historic temples, old streets, and a more relaxed pace compared to the city center.

Places to Stay in Asakusa:

• Richmond Hotel Premier Asakusa International – Walking distance from Asakusa Station and Sensoji Temple
• Richmond Hotel Asakusa – Some of the rooms offer views of Sensoji Temple
• The Kanzashi Tokyo Asakusa – Great location and amazing views from the rooftop

Check out this interactive map below for more places to stay in Asakusa!

Tips for Choosing Where to Stay in Tokyo

• Easy Transit: Stay close to a JR Yamanote Line station as it is the easiest way to get around Tokyo since it connects all the major neighborhoods
• Walkable Distance: Pick a place within a 10 to 15-minute walk of any transit stop because being too far can make your days tiring
• Central Location: Choose a neighborhood that is central to the spots you want to visit so you spend less time commuting and more time exploring
• Neighborhood Vibe: Consider the vibe you want since some areas are busy and lively while others are quieter and more relaxed
• Nearby Conveniences: Think about nearby conveniences like grocery stores, cafes, or convenience stores for quick snacks or breakfast (We really enjoyed being right next to a 7-Eleven for quick breakfasts, late-night snacks, and easy ATM access!)
• Luggage Ease: If you’re carrying your luggage yourself instead of using a transport service, I highly recommend choosing a hotel close to a train station to avoid having to carry your bags very far.

➡️For more help choosing the right hotel, you can check out my full Where to Stay in Tokyo guide, which covers the areas I recommend for first-time visitors.

How to Get Around in Tokyo (Using Public Transit)

Tokyo’s public transit system is super efficient and easy to use once you get the hang of it. The trains and subways run frequently and pretty much are always on time.

The JR Yamanote Line is the most convenient train line since it loops around central Tokyo and connects all the major neighborhoods like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ginza. So, it is nice to choose a hotel that is within close distance of a JR Yamanote station!

You will pay for public transit in Japan using a Suica Card or another IC prepaid card. If you have an iPhone, I highly recommend adding the Suica Card to your Apple Wallet before you arrive in Japan. This way, you do not have to carry a physical card, and it is easy to reload the balance whenever you need to.

If you do not have an iPhone, you can buy a physical Suica Card at the train station and reload it at ticket machines when the balance runs low.

For getting around, Google Maps is your best friend. It shows train and subway schedules, walking routes, platform numbers, and the exact train to catch. This makes navigating Tokyo’s complex transit system much easier.

I do not recommend relying on Apple Maps for public transit because it is not as detailed or accurate. However, Apple Maps works fine for walking directions.

While taxis and Ubers are available, they are expensive and usually not necessary unless you have heavy luggage or are traveling late at night.

Walking is also one of my favorite ways to explore neighborhoods. Tokyo’s streets are really walkable, and you will find lots of cool shops, cafes, and hidden gems just by wandering around.

When to Visit Tokyo

Tokyo has something different to offer in every season, and the best time to visit really depends on what you want to see and do.

Here’s a breakdown to help you figure out the best time for your trip, plus a few weeks you might want to avoid if you’re not a fan of big crowds and higher prices.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the most popular times to visit because of the cherry blossoms.

The city looks beautiful and the weather is great for walking around. P

eak bloom is usually in late March or early April, but it can shift depending on the year.

If you’re planning for cherry blossoms, you will want to book hotels well in advance.

• Pros: Cherry blossoms and comfortable weather
• Cons: Crowds everywhere during peak bloom, higher hotel prices, trains can be packed.
• Avoid: Golden Week (late April to early May) which is a string of Japanese national holidays when locals are traveling, so everything is more crowded and expensive.

Summer (June to August)

Tokyo summers are hot and humid, and June is rainy season, so expect some rainy days.

• Pros: Fun festivals and easier to travel with kids when school is out
• Cons: Heat and humidity, rainy season in June, higher crowds during school holidays in late July and August.
• Avoid: Obon (mid-August) is a major holiday period when many people travel, so expect crowds and higher prices.

Fall (September to November)

Fall is one of the best times to visit Tokyo in my opinion!

The weather is comfortable, the leaves turn beautiful red and yellow colors, and it’s less crowded than spring.

• Pros: Mild weather, fall foliage, fewer tourists than spring.
• Cons: September can still feel like summer heat-wise, and it’s also typhoon season so there’s a chance of heavy rain or travel delays.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Tokyo is cold but not extreme. It rarely snows in the city, and if it does, nothing too significant.

You will see festive winter lights and fewer crowds, especially in January and February.

• Pros: Fewer tourists, lower hotel prices, beautiful holiday lights in December.
• Cons: Chilly mornings and nights, less greenery, fewer outdoor events.

Final Thoughts on 5-Day Tokyo Itinerary

Tokyo is one of those cities you could visit over and over again and still find something new each time!

Whether you are here for the food, the history, or just to experience the energy of the city, there is something for everyone.

My biggest advice is to plan a little but leave room to wander. Some of our favorite memories from our 5-day Tokyo itinerary came from turning down random streets or stepping into places we had not read about online.

No matter when you visit or where you stay, you are in for an amazing trip!

Check out my other Japan blog posts to help you plan your Japan itinerary!

• Best Things to Do on Miyajima Island – Day Trip from Hiroshima
• Koyasan Temple Stay: My Experience at Ekoin (Is It Worth It?)
• Three Days in Osaka Itinerary: What You Can’t Miss!
• 2 Days in Hiroshima Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
• Our 4-Day Kyoto Itinerary: Everything We Did & Food We Loved
• What to Wear in Japan in June: My Summer Packing List and Tips
• 2.5 Weeks in Japan Trip Cost: How Much We Spent for 18 Days
• 1-Day Kamakura Itinerary: Exploring as a Day Trip from Tokyo
• How to Plan a Day Trip from Osaka to Koyasan (Mount Koya)
• Osaka to Nara Day Trip Itinerary: How I Spent My Day
• Osaka vs Kyoto: My Honest Take After Visiting Both
• Where to Stay in Hiroshima: Best Areas & Hotels for First-Time Visitors
• Where to Stay in Osaka: How to Pick the Right Area for Your Trip
• Where to Stay in Kyoto: Choosing the Perfect Area for Your Trip
• Where to Stay in Tokyo: A First-Timer’s Guide Based on My Own Trip
• 22 Things to Know Before Traveling to Japan: What I Wish I Knew Before My First Trip
• 1-Day Kyoto Itinerary: How I’d Spend One Day If You’re Short on Time
• 1-Day Osaka Itinerary: What We Did in Osaka in One Day
• 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary: A Detailed Guide for First-Time Visitors