7 days in Tokyo, Japan: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is a city that never sleeps – a place where ancient history meets futuristic innovations. As you explore its streets, you’ll discover serene temples nestled among neon-lit skyscrapers, mouthwatering sushi bars, and the bustling shopping district of Ginza. Visit the majestic Imperial Palace, or immerse yourself in subcultures like Harajuku fashion or Akihabara’s anime scene. Tokyo offers a myriad of experiences to curious visitors, ensuring that you won’t run out of things to see and do.
Things to Consider Before Arriving to Tokyo
Excellent public transportation
Unbelievable food scene
High cost of living
History and culture enthusiasts
Technology and gaming aficionados
Shopaholics
What to Bring with You
1. Comfortable shoes for walking
2. Clothes that can be easily layered (Tokyo’s weather can change quickly)
3. Cash, as some places don’t accept credit cards
4. A reusable shopping bag, as Japan has a strong emphasis on sustainability
5. A portable Wi-Fi device or SIM card, for easy internet access on the go
Best Time of the Year to Visit
The best times to visit Tokyo are during the pleasant spring months (March to May) when cherry blossoms bloom, and the mild autumn months (September to November) with vibrant fall foliage.
How to Get Into Tokyo
1. By air: Tokyo has two major airports, Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND). Narita is farther from the city center, but has more international flights, while Haneda is closer but primarily serves domestic flights and a limited number of international flights.
2. By train: The Shinkansen, Japan’s high-speed bullet train, connects Tokyo with other major cities, such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. Arriving at Tokyo Station, the train offers a comfortable and convenient way to reach the city.
3. By bus: Long-distance buses connect Tokyo to other cities in Japan. While slower than the Shinkansen, they can be a budget-friendly option if you don’t mind the longer journey.
7 day city guide trip in Tokyo
Day 1 – Arrival and Asakusa
After settling into your hotel, head to one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods, Asakusa, to visit the famous Senso-ji temple and its surrounding streets filled with traditional Japanese shops and restaurants. End your day with a view of the city from the Tokyo Skytree observation deck.
Day 2 – Shibuya and Harajuku
Start the day with a visit to the famous Shibuya crossing, then head to Takeshita Street in Harajuku to experience the unique fashion and street food of Tokyo’s youth culture. In the evening, catch a performance at the Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku.
Day 3 – Tsukiji Fish Market and Imperial Palace
Wake up early to visit the Tsukiji Fish Market and witness the bustling morning auction. Afterward, head to the serene gardens and historic buildings of the Imperial Palace.
Day 4 – Day trip to Kamakura
Take a train to Kamakura, a charming coastal town known for its iconic Great Buddha statue and numerous temples, including the stunning Hase-dera temple with its breathtaking ocean view.
Day 5 – Akihabara and Ueno Park
Explore the world of anime, manga, and gaming in Akihabara, then head to Ueno Park to visit the famous Tokyo National Museum and enjoy a relaxing walk through the park and its temples.
Day 6 – Day trip to Mount Fuji
Take a bus tour to see the stunning Mount Fuji and its surrounding natural beauty, including Lake Ashi and the Owakudani Valley.
Day 7 – Ginza and Roppongi Hills
Spend your last day shopping and dining in the upscale Ginza district, then admire the city skyline from the observation deck at Roppongi Hills.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Tokyo
If you want to continue your Japan adventure, consider visiting Kyoto, known for its ornate temples and beautiful gardens, or Hiroshima, a city with a tragic past but a bright future and a vibrant culinary scene. Both cities can be reached via the Shinkansen bullet train, which is a unique experience in itself and takes around 2-3 hours from Tokyo. Another option is to visit Nikko, a charming town north of Tokyo famous for its high concentration of temples and shrines and its natural beauty, including the stunning Kegon Falls. Nikko can be reached by train in around 2-3 hours from Tokyo.
