Tokyo Tales: A 4-Day Family Adventure on a Budget!

Discover the wonders of Tokyo together, where family memories are made.

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Tokyo, Japan offers a perfect blend of traditional culture and modern attractions. Explore historic sites like the beautiful Meiji Shrine and majestic Tokyo Imperial Palace, while also enjoying the lively atmosphere of popular districts like Shibuya and Shinjuku. Treat your family to thrilling rides at Disneyland Tokyo or discover the wonders of technology at the interactive teamLab Borderless museum, making unforgettable memories together in this vibrant city.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Neon Wonderland

  • Check into the fabulous Capsule Hotel Shinjuku, where futuristic sleep pods will make you feel like a space explorer!
  • Dive into sensory overload in bustling Shinjuku and witness the world's busiest intersection at Shibuya Crossing.
  • Find your Zen at Meiji Shrine, surrounded by lush greenery and offering a tranquil escape from the city madness.
  • Satisfy your inner shopaholic in Ginza, featuring high-end stores and futuristic technology showrooms.
  • Fill your belly with a conveyor belt sushi feast at Genki Sushi, where sushi plates whizz past like a delicious bullet train.
  • End the day with panoramic city views from Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in the world, and feel on top of the world!
Day 2

Time Wrapping in Asakusa

  • Immerse yourself in traditional Japan at Asakusa, where the ancient Senso-ji Temple stands proud and attracts countless admirers.
  • Join a traditional tea ceremony and feel like a feudal lord sipping tea from incredibly intricate cups.
  • Explore Nakamise Shopping Street and get lost in a maze of eclectic shops selling everything from cute trinkets to samurai swords.
  • Choose a flavorful lunch at one of the charming little alleys of Hoppy Street, where tiny izakayas serve mouthwatering street food.
  • Visit the quirky Kappabashi Street, known for its stores selling everything kitchen-related, from chef knives to plastic food replicas.
  • Trivia time! Tokyo Tower was actually inspired by the Eiffel Tower and offers breathtaking views from its observation decks.
Day 3

Anime Extravaganza

  • Step into the colorful world of anime and manga at Akihabara, where maid cafes, arcades, and countless stores await.
  • Discover the nostalgic allure of retro video games at Super Potato, a quirky store filled with vintage consoles and games.
  • Unleash your inner otaku at Mandarake, a haven for anime and manga enthusiasts with its multi-story treasure troves.
  • Dive into digital madness at TeamLab Borderless, an awe-inspiring interactive art museum where you can become part of the exhibits.
  • Get your geek on at Robot Restaurant, a dazzling spectacle of lights, music, and dancing robots that will leave you awestruck.
  • End the day with a steaming bowl of ramen at Ichiran, a legendary noodle spot where you can customize your meal to perfection.
Day 4

Cultural Marvels and Flavors

  • Discover the serenity of the Imperial Palace Gardens, where lush gardens and historic structures offer glimpses into Japan's past.
  • Time travel to Edo-period Tokyo at the Edo-Tokyo Museum, where mesmerizing exhibits bring the city's history to life.
  • Indulge in a traditional kaiseki lunch at Tokyo Shiba Tofuya-Ukai, a true culinary delight that will tickle your taste buds.
  • Wander through Ueno Park, home to several museums and Tokyo's oldest zoo, where you can marvel at the cutest pandas in Japan.
  • Catch a traditional kabuki performance at Kabuki-za Theater, where enigmatic actors captivate audiences with their artistry.
  • End your Tokyo adventure with a nightcap at Golden Gai, a maze-like area filled with tiny bars where you can mingle with locals.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Tokyo, Japan by plane is to fly into Tokyo's Narita International Airport, which is located approximately 60 km east of Tokyo city center. Several airlines operate direct and connecting flights to Narita from major cities around the world, including New York, London, Sydney, and Singapore.

Car

Driving from all around Japan to Tokyo can be an option, however, it is not advisable due to heavy traffic during peak hours, as well as limited parking space in the city center. If driving is still the preferred option, highways such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway take you straight to the main attraction sites.

Train

There are several train options for travelling to Tokyo, but the best way is to take the shinkansen, or bullet train. The shinkansen provides high-speed rail service connecting major cities in Japan, including Tokyo. The train departs from Shin-Osaka Station, which is located in southern Osaka.

Boat

While there is no direct sea route to Tokyo, ferries are available from cities such as Osaka and Kobe to Tokyo's Harumi ferry terminal, located about 2 km southeast of Tokyo Bay. The journey by ferry takes around 17 hours from Osaka and 25 hours from Kobe, but offers beautiful oceanic views.

Bus

The best way to get to Tokyo by bus is to take a long-distance bus from major cities in Japan, such as Osaka, Kyoto or Nagoya. The bus journey from these cities takes around 6-9 hours to reach Tokyo. The buses usually depart from the main bus terminal in each city.

More travel plans

4 Days in Tokyo: Explore History & Modernity

Tokyo is an exhilarating city that you won't forget easily, it's an incredible mix of history and modernity. As a tourist, you could start by visiting the iconic Tokyo Tower, wandering the streets of the trendy Shibuya neighborhood, and trying some local cuisine. You could also take a day trip to the nearby city of Kamakura, which is home to spectacular shrines and temples.

Escape to Shibuya: A Romantic Weekend in Tokyo

A romantic trip to Tokyo, Japan promises an unforgettable experience. You will be surrounded by cherry blossom trees, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. Enjoy scenic walks, visit historical temples, and indulge in the modern culture of Japan to create lasting memories with your partner.

Tokyo Thrills: Budget Guide for 2 Days

Visiting Tokyo on a limited budget is possible but requires careful planning and budgeting. Exploring the city's various attractions such as the Sensoji temple, Akihabara electronics district, and Harajuku fashion district can provide rich cultural experiences for little to no cost. Opting for economical accommodations such as shared hostel dorms, capsule hotels, or Airbnb rentals and relying on public transportation systems can also help minimize expenses.

Tokyo Adventure: 4 Days of Fun and Romance

A romantic trip to Tokyo, Japan offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. From exploring ancient temples to indulging in Michelin-starred cuisine, the city offers something for every couple to enjoy. Get lost in the bustling streets of Shibuya or unwind in one of the city's many hot springs for the ultimate romantic getaway.