Tokyo 5-Day Itinerary: The Ultimate First-Timer's Guide

Trip Overview

Day 1: Shinjuku & Shibuya

Start your Tokyo adventure in the city's most vibrant districts. These areas showcase modern Tokyo at its best – neon lights, bustling crowds, and endless entertainment.

Morning: Shinjuku Exploration

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – One of Tokyo's largest and most beautiful parks. Perfect for jet-lag recovery. (¥500 entry)
• Walk through the busy Shinjuku Station area – the world's busiest station

Afternoon: Shibuya

• Shibuya Crossing – The iconic scramble crossing. Best viewed from Starbucks above
• Visit Shibuya Sky – 360° observation deck (¥2,000)
• Explore Shibuya 109 for Japanese fashion

Evening

• Golden Gai – Narrow alleys with tiny bars in Shinjuku
• Dinner at Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) – atmospheric yakitori stalls

💡 Pro Tip: Get the Tokyo Subway 72-hour pass (¥1,500) – it pays for itself quickly.

Day 2: Asakusa & Ueno

Today we explore traditional Tokyo – historic temples, markets, and the city's cultural heart.

Morning: Asakusa

• Senso-ji Temple – Tokyo's oldest and most significant temple
• Walk through Nakamise Street – traditional shopping street with snacks and souvenirs
• See the iconic Kaminarimon Gate (Thunder Gate)

Afternoon: Ueno

• Ueno Park – Museums, shrines, and the famous zoo
• Visit Tokyo National Museum if you love history (¥1,000)
• Explore Ameyoko Market – bustling street market

Evening

• Take a Sumida River cruise back toward Asakusa
• See Tokyo Skytree lit up at night

Day 3: Harajuku & Meiji Shrine

A perfect mix of tranquil spirituality and quirky Japanese pop culture.

Morning

• Meiji Shrine – Serene Shinto shrine in a forested area. Free entry.
• Walk through the beautiful Yoyogi Park

Afternoon: Harajuku

• Takeshita Street – Wild fashion, crepes, and kawaii culture
• Omotesando – Tokyo's Champs-Élysées with high-end shopping
• Try a rainbow cotton candy or Japanese crepe

Evening

• Explore Roppongi Hills for dinner and city views
• Check out teamLab Borderless digital art museum (book ahead!)

Day 4: Day Trip to Kamakura

Escape the city for a day to explore ancient temples and the famous Great Buddha.

Getting There

Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station (1 hour, covered by JR Pass or ~¥940).

Must-See

• Kotoku-in Temple – The iconic Great Buddha (Daibutsu)
• Hasedera Temple – Beautiful gardens and ocean views
• Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine – Kamakura's most important shrine
• Stroll along Komachi Street for snacks and souvenirs

🚃 Transport Tip: If you have a JR Pass, this day trip is "free." Otherwise, consider the Kamakura-Enoshima Pass.

Day 5: Ginza & Tokyo Station

End your trip with upscale shopping, incredible food, and a last taste of Tokyo.

Morning

• Explore Tsukiji Outer Market – Fresh seafood breakfast
• Try tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet) and fresh sushi

Afternoon: Ginza

• Window shop at Ginza's luxury boutiques
• Visit Ginza Six – modern shopping complex
• Explore Tokyo Station – beautiful red-brick building

Evening

• Last-minute shopping at Character Street (Tokyo Station)
• Pick up bento boxes and snacks for your flight

Where to Stay

Tokyo has accommodation for every budget. Here are our top picks for first-time visitors:

Shinjuku Granbell Hotel

⭐⭐⭐⭐ · Shinjuku

Great location, rooftop bar

$120/night

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Park Hyatt Tokyo

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ · Shinjuku

Iconic luxury, Lost in Translation vibes

$450/night

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Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza

⭐⭐⭐⭐ · Ginza

Central location, modern design

$180/night

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💡 Prices are approximate and may vary. Check partner sites for current rates.

Essential Tokyo Tips