Complete Travel Itinerary for Tokyo, Japan in 7 Days

Tokyo is a dazzling blend of ancient tradition and futuristic innovation. For first-time visitors, the sheer scale of the city can be overwhelming—but a structured 7-day itinerary will help you experience everything from quiet shrines to neon-lit nightlife without missing a beat. Whether you're into food, fashion, history, or tech, Tokyo has something for everyone.

Why Visit Tokyo?

Tokyo isn’t just Japan’s capital—it’s a cultural phenomenon. With over 37 million people in the metropolitan area, it’s the world’s most populous city. But despite its size, Tokyo is clean, safe, and surprisingly easy to navigate. It combines ancient temples with sleek skyscrapers, Michelin-star ramen with hole-in-the-wall izakayas, and tranquil gardens with all-night karaoke.

When to Visit Tokyo

- Spring (March to May): Cherry blossoms and perfect weather.
- Fall (September to November): Crisp air and colorful leaves.
- Summer (June to August): Hot and humid, but full of festivals.
- Winter (December to February): Cold, clear skies and fewer crowds.

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Best Areas for Tourists:
- Shinjuku: Great for nightlife, shopping, and easy train access.
- Shibuya: Youthful, energetic, and home to the famous scramble crossing.
- Asakusa: More traditional with temples and budget lodging.
- Ginza: Upscale, elegant, and great for luxury travelers.
- Ueno: Park, zoo, museums—ideal for families.

Recommended Hotels:
- Park Hotel Tokyo – Artistic and centrally located.
- Hotel Ryumeikan Tokyo – Blends comfort with Japanese hospitality.
- Book and Bed Tokyo – Quirky hostel experience for backpackers.

Getting Around Tokyo

Tokyo’s transit system is incredibly efficient. Use a Suica or Pasmo card to access all trains and subways.

- JR Yamanote Line: Loops around all major districts.
- Metro: Covers areas outside JR’s network.
- Buses: Less used by tourists but helpful in outer districts.
- Taxis: Expensive but clean and safe.
- Walking: Essential within neighborhoods like Harajuku and Shimokitazawa.

Tip: Google Maps works flawlessly for train navigation in Tokyo.

Day-by-Day 7-Day Tokyo Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival + Shibuya & Harajuku
- Check into your hotel and get familiar with your area.
- Visit Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue.
- Explore Takeshita Street in Harajuku.
- Dinner at an izakaya like Uobei Sushi or Teyandei.

Day 2: Shinjuku & Golden Gai
- Start with a panoramic view from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (free).
- Visit Shinjuku Gyoen Garden.
- Explore Omoide Yokocho for street food.
- Finish in Golden Gai for small bars with big personality.

Day 3: Asakusa & Ueno
- Begin with Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa.
- Walk Nakamise Street for snacks and souvenirs.
- Head to Ueno Park: visit museums or the zoo.
- Dinner near Ameyoko Market.

Day 4: Akihabara & Tokyo Station
- Akihabara: electronics, anime stores, maid cafes.
- Stop by Tokyo Station and wander its underground shopping zone.
- Walk to the Imperial Palace East Gardens.
- Try ramen at Tokyo Ramen Street inside the station.

Day 5: Odaiba or Ghibli Museum
- Morning at teamLab Planets or the Miraikan Science Museum in Odaiba.
- Alternatively, pre-book the Studio Ghibli Museum (tickets required well in advance).
- Enjoy the view from the Odaiba waterfront.
- Try monjayaki in Tsukishima for dinner.

Day 6: Day Trip to Nikko or Yokohama
- Nikko: UNESCO shrines, mountains, and waterfalls.
- Yokohama: Cup Noodles Museum, Chinatown, waterfront.
- Both accessible by train and perfect for full-day excursions.

Day 7: Ginza, Shopping, and Departure
- Morning stroll through Ginza’s upscale shopping scene.
- Visit a department store food hall (depachika).
- Last-minute souvenirs in Don Quijote or Tokyu Hands.
- Depart via Narita or Haneda Airport.

What to Eat in Tokyo

Don’t leave Tokyo without trying:

- Sushi: Sushi Dai or Sushi no Midori.
- Ramen: Ichiran, Afuri, or local hole-in-the-wall spots.
- Tempura: Tempura Kondo (Michelin-starred).
- Soba/Udon: Eat cold soba in summer, warm udon in winter.
- Street snacks: Taiyaki, yakitori, mochi.

Budget tip: Look for basement-level restaurants in train stations and department stores.

Tokyo Travel Tips

- No tipping culture—don’t leave extra cash.
- Cash is still king. Always have yen on hand.
- Convenience stores are your best friend for snacks and even full meals.
- Trash bins are rare. Carry a small bag for garbage.
- Learn a few phrases like “arigatou” and “sumimasen.”

Cultural Etiquette

- Don’t talk loudly on trains.
- Take off shoes before entering someone’s home or certain restaurants.
- Don’t eat while walking.
- Be punctual—Japanese culture values time.

Safety in Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world, but be mindful of:

- Scams in nightlife districts like Roppongi or Kabukicho.
- Pedestrian rules: jaywalking is frowned upon.
- Lost items: Most are returned to police or station offices.

Emergency number in Japan: 110 (police), 119 (ambulance/fire)

Best Souvenirs to Bring Home

- Japanese skincare or cosmetics.
- Specialty KitKats.
- Traditional snacks and tea.
- Gachapon capsule toys.
- Art from local markets or department stores.

Final Thoughts

Tokyo rewards those who explore beyond the obvious. Your seven days will be packed, but take time to wander aimlessly down side streets, sip coffee in a tiny third-wave café, or listen to the gentle voice announcing the next train at Shinjuku Station. The contrast of serenity and chaos is what makes Tokyo unforgettable.