4 Days in Tokyo: Explore History & Modernity

Explore the vibrant and eclectic city of Tokyo, Japan.

22 April 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival in Tokyo

  • Check into hotel We recommend the Park Hotel Tokyo, located in the bustling Shimbashi neighborhood.
  • Explore the Sensoji Temple in Asakusa Make sure to stop by Nakamise-dori, a street filled with tasty snacks and trinkets.
  • Savor a sushi dinner at Sushi-Bun, located in the trendy Ginza district.
  • Take in the breathtaking views of Tokyo from the top of the Tokyo Skytree.
  • Try a refreshing matcha latte at the peaceful Higashiya Ginza, a traditional Japanese tea house.
Day 2

Modern Tokyo

  • Visit Tokyo's quirky Harajuku neighborhood, known for its unique fashion trends and street food.
  • Take a stroll through the tranquil Meiji Jingu Shrine, located in the heart of Harajuku.
  • Check out the interactive exhibits and innovative technology at the Miraikan National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation.
  • Dine at the Michelin-starred Narisawa for a unique dining experience, known for its ecological cuisine.
  • Get lost in the neon lights and vibrant energy of Shibuya, and make sure to cross the famous Shibuya Crossing.
Day 3

Traditional Tokyo

  • Step back in time at the Edo-Tokyo Museum, showcasing Tokyo's history and development.
  • Walk through the scenic gardens of the Imperial Palace, a historic landmark in the city.
  • Indulge in some tasty street food at Ameya Yokocho Market in Ueno.
  • Experience a traditional tea ceremony at the peaceful Happo-en garden.
  • Enjoy a savory shabu-shabu dinner at Kanetanaka, serving up Japanese hot pot with premium Wagyu beef.
Day 4

Surrounding Areas of Tokyo

  • Take a day trip to Kamakura, a coastal town known for its stunning temples and shrines.
  • Visit the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple.
  • Take a walk through the stunning Hasedera Temple, known for its beautiful gardens and scenic views.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with some tasty warabi mochi at Komachi Street.
  • End your day with a relaxing soak in an onsen, a traditional Japanese hot spring, at Enospa in nearby Hakone.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Tokyo

Welcome to a land where neon lights shine brighter than your future, and the trains run faster than your ability to keep up with them. Get ready to explore Tokyo, where chaos meets tranquility, in a city filled with quirky fashion, scrumptious food, and fascinating culture.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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

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.

Tokyo on a Budget: 4 Days of Adventure!

A trip to Tokyo, Japan on a limited budget can still be a wonderful experience. Opt for budget accommodations like capsule hotels or guesthouses, and utilize public transportation to get around the city. Delicious and affordable street food can be found in bustling districts like Shibuya and Shinjuku, and there are plenty of free attractions like parks and temples to explore.

5 Days in Tokyo: A Perfect Trip Itinerary

As a tourist visiting Tokyo, Japan, you can expect to experience a city that is both modern and steeped in tradition. You can explore historic sites such as the Imperial Palace and Sensoji Temple or experience the futuristic streets of Shibuya and Harajuku. From tasting traditional sushi to indulging in modern cuisine, the city offers a unique and exciting trip for any traveler.

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.