Plan & Book Your Trip to Tokyo
Tokyo is a vast metropolis where modern towers, historic temple grounds, and lively neon streets fit together across distinct districts. For a first overview, I recommend allowing four to five full days so you can give each day a clear geographical focus without spending all your time changing trains. Use these suggestions to plan an unhurried visit around the neighborhoods, views, and food that interest you most. (Note: If you book using the affiliate links below, I may earn a small commission. Your booking and payment are handled directly by the provider in a new tab, not by Sights of the City.)
If you book through a marked affiliate link, I may earn a commission. Booking links open in a new tab. You book and pay with the provider, not Sights of the City.
EXPLORE
Tokyo
Plan & Book
Transportation
Book Transportation
I find getting around Tokyo easiest by taking trains between major areas, then exploring each neighborhood on foot.
JR Yamanote Line
The essential circular rail line connecting major hubs like Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, and Shibuya around central Tokyo.
Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway
Thirteen subway lines operated by two companies, making it simple to reach districts beyond the JR network.
Transport IC Cards
Digital or physical cards like Suica and Pasmo make tapping through ticket gates fast and hassle-free.
Walking Within Districts
Exploring on foot is the best way to discover backstreet shrines, tiny eateries, and tucked-away shopping arcades.
Airport Rail Connections
Direct express trains link Narita and Haneda airports straight into major central terminal stations.
Book Accommodations
Tokyo functions like a constellation of distinct cities connected by rapid transit lines. So the neighborhood you pick sets the tone for your trip when booking hotels, apartments, or vacation rentals.
Shinjuku Station & Western Hub Hotels
A lively skyscraper and entertainment district surrounded by neon backstreets and unbeatable rail connections across the metropolis.
Shibuya Crossing & Downtown Hotels
An energetic base at the center of youth culture and dining, ideal for exploring western Tokyo on foot.
Ginza & Nihombashi Stays
Consider these central districts for wide shopping boulevards, department stores, and convenient access to Tokyo Station.
Asakusa Traditional Stays & Ryokan
Stay in eastern Tokyo to be near historic temple streets and traditional neighborhood atmosphere along the Sumida river.
Yokohama Waterfront Stays
We based ourselves in Yokohama's Intercontinental Grand in Minato Mirai, enjoying broad promenades and an easy train rides into central Tokyo.
Book Activities
What I love most about Tokyo is the contrast between massive urban views and quiet, everyday neighborhood details.
Tokyo Tower Observation Deck
Take in panoramas across the vast urban landscape and watch the city light up as evening approaches.
Senso-ji and Asakusa
Walk beneath the massive red Kaminarimon lantern to explore Tokyo's oldest temple grounds and lively market stalls.
Shibuya Crossing & Backstreets
Watch the famous scramble crossing from above, then wander the illuminated side streets filled with small dining spots.
Imperial Palace Outer Grounds
Explore the historic moats, stone walls, and views of the palace bridges.
Tokyo Dome City Attractions
Ride the Thunder Dolphin roller coaster through the buildings and enjoy the Ferris wheel for an energetic break.
Book Journeys
Tokyo is an ideal starting point for day trips to the coast or longer rail journeys across Japan.
Yokohama
A quick 30-minute train ride south to explore scenic harbor promenades, museums, and a massive Chinatown.
Kamakura
A classic coastal day trip to visit ancient Zen temples, shaded gardens, and the famous Great Buddha.
The Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa
Take the bullet train northwest through the mountains to experience traditional samurai streets and castle gardens.
Kyoto and Osaka
Continue from Kanazawa to Kyoto and Osaka for a multi-day stay among imperial temples and Kansai street food.
Accommodations
Use the interactive map below to explore hotels and vacation rentals across Tokyo, from the bright towers of Shinjuku to the historic lanes of Asakusa.
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Activities
Food & Drink
Multi-day Trips
Events
Services