Last Updated on January 31, 2025 by Vlad
Planning a longer stay in Tokyo? With five days, you can explore deeper into the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods, take a few day trips, and even explore family-friendly attractions like Tokyo Disneyland and Odaiba. This itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of Tokyo, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, without feeling rushed. Let’s get started!
Day 1: Explore Central Tokyo’s Highlights
Morning: Imperial Palace and East Gardens
- What to Do: Start your trip at the Imperial Palace, the primary residence of Japan’s Emperor. Stroll through the East Gardens, which are open to the public and offer a peaceful start to your day.
- Cultural Insight: The palace grounds were once part of Edo Castle, the seat of power during the Tokugawa shogunate.
- Tip: Join a free guided tour of the palace grounds (book in advance). Tours are available in English and provide fascinating historical context.
- Why It’s Great: A serene introduction to Tokyo’s history and culture.
- Budget-Friendly: Free entry to the gardens.

Afternoon: Ginza Shopping and Lunch
- What to Do: Head to Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale shopping district. Browse Japanese department stores like Mitsukoshi, luxury boutiques, and flagship stores.
- Food Recommendation: Try sushi at Sukiyabashi Jiro (note: reservations are essential due to its fame). For a more casual option, try standing sushi bars like Sushi Zanmai or conveyor belt sushi at Genki Sushi.
- Unique Experience: Visit Itoya, a 12-floor stationery paradise, for unique Japanese paper goods.
- Why It’s Great: A mix of high-end shopping and delicious food.
- Budget-Friendly: Window shopping is free! Standing sushi bars are also wallet-friendly.
Evening: Tokyo Tower and Roppongi
- What to Do: Visit Tokyo Tower, an iconic landmark offering stunning views of the city. Afterward, explore Roppongi, known for its nightlife, art galleries, and international restaurants.
- Unique Experience: Visit the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi Hills for modern art. Alternatively, check out Roppongi Hills’ observation deck if Tokyo Tower feels too crowded.
- Why It’s Great: Perfect for ending the day with a mix of culture and nightlife.
- Budget-Friendly: Tokyo Tower’s main deck costs ¥1,200, but the views are worth it.

Day 2: Tokyo’s Pop Culture and Traditions
Morning: Meiji Shrine and Harajuku
- What to Do: Start your day at Meiji Shrine, a tranquil Shinto shrine surrounded by a lush forest. Afterward, head to Takeshita Street in Harajuku, the heart of Tokyo’s youth culture.
- Cultural Insight: Write a wish on an ema (wooden plaque) at Meiji Shrine—be sure to write your wish clearly and hang it respectfully. The shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, who played a key role in modernizing Japan.
- Food Recommendation: Try rainbow cotton candy or katsu sandwiches on Takeshita Street. For dessert lovers, don’t miss matcha-based treats like soft serve ice cream from Matcha Republic.
- Why It’s Great: A perfect blend of tradition and Japanese pop culture.
- Budget-Friendly: Free entry to Meiji Shrine.

Afternoon: Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue
- What to Do: Visit the famous Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the Hachiko Statue, a symbol of loyalty.
- Fun Fact: Hachiko was a loyal dog who waited for his owner at Shibuya Station every day, even after his owner’s death. His story is a beloved part of Japanese culture.
- Fun Fact Tip: Watch Hachi – A Dog’s Tale with Richard Gere if you are not familiar with Hachiko story.
- Food Recommendation: Try Ichiran Ramen for a unique solo dining experience. Alternatively, visit a standing ramen shop like Afuri for yuzu-infused noodles.
- Why It’s Great: A must-see Tokyo landmark with a lively atmosphere.
- Budget-Friendly: Free to explore.

Evening: Shinjuku’s Nightlife
- What to Do: End your day in Shinjuku, Tokyo’s bustling nightlife district. Visit Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane), nicknamed “Piss Alley,” for yakitori and drinks, or explore Golden Gai, a maze of tiny bars and pubs.
- Hidden Gem: Visit Kabukicho Tower for a mix of entertainment and dining.
- Why It’s Great: A vibrant way to experience Tokyo after dark.
- Budget-Friendly: Yakitori skewers start at around ¥200 each.
Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko or Hakone
Option 1: Nikko
- What to Do: Visit Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning shrines and natural beauty. Explore Toshogu Shrine, Kegon Falls, and Lake Chuzenji.
- Cultural Insight: Nikkō Tōshō-gū is thought to be the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. The shrine is renowned for its intricate carvings and gold leaf decorations.
- Tip: Rent a bike to explore Lake Chuzenji and nearby areas at your own pace.
- Why It’s Great: A mix of history and nature.
- Budget-Friendly: Use the Nikko Pass for unlimited transport.

Option 2: Hakone
- What to Do: Head to Hakone for hot springs, a cruise on Lake Ashi, and views of Mount Fuji. Don’t miss the Hakone Open-Air Museum.
- Unique Experience: Take the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic views of the area. Stop at Owakudani Valley to try black eggs, said to extend your life by seven years!
- Why It’s Great: Relaxing and scenic.
- Budget-Friendly: Use the Hakone Free Pass for unlimited transport.
- More Reading: Check out my Hakone Guide here.

Day 4: Family Fun in Odaiba and Tokyo Disneyland
Morning: Odaiba
- What to Do: Spend your morning in Odaiba, a futuristic island in Tokyo Bay. Visit teamLab Borderless, a digital art museum, and DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, home to the giant Unicorn Gundam statue.
- Tip: Book tickets for teamLab Borderless in advance, as they sell out quickly.
- Why It’s Great: A mix of technology and entertainment.
- Budget-Friendly: Entry to teamLab Borderless is ¥3,200, but walking around Odaiba is free.
Afternoon and Evening: Tokyo Disneyland
- What to Do: Head to Tokyo Disneyland for an afternoon and evening of family-friendly fun. Explore themed lands, enjoy parades, and meet your favorite Disney characters.
- Tip : Arrive early to avoid long queues for popular rides. Download the official app for real-time wait times and parade schedules.
- Why It’s Great: A magical experience for all ages.
- Budget: Tickets start at ¥7,900 for adults.

Day 5: Explore Asakusa and Ueno
Morning: Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Street
- What to Do: Start your day in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most historic neighborhoods. Visit Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple. Stroll down Nakamise Street for traditional snacks and souvenirs.
- Cultural Insight: Senso-ji was founded in 628 AD and is dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) is one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks.
- Food Recommendation: Try melonpan (sweet bread) and taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries).
- Tip: Be sure to toss coins quietly and respectfully when praying at the temple.
- Why It’s Great: A deep dive into Tokyo’s history and culture.
- Budget-Friendly: Free entry to Senso-ji Temple.

Afternoon: Ueno Park and Museums
- What to Do: Spend your afternoon in Ueno Park, home to several museums, including the Tokyo National Museum and Ueno Zoo.
- Tip: If time allows, visit Yanaka Ginza, a retro shopping street near Ueno, for a nostalgic feel.
- Why It’s Great: A relaxing way to end your trip.
- Budget-Friendly: Entry to the Tokyo National Museum is ¥1,000.
Evening: Ameyoko Shopping Street
- What to Do: End your trip at Ameyoko Shopping Street, a bustling sopen-air market near Ueno Station. Try yakitori, takoyaki, or fresh seafood.
- Tip: Look for stalls selling fresh seafood skewers or fruit tarts for a memorable treat.
- Why It’s Great: A lively and affordable way to experience local life.
- Budget-Friendly: Street food starts at around ¥500.

If You Have Extra Time or an extra Day
- Kamakura : Visit the Great Buddha and Hase-dera Temple. Consider extending your trip to Enoshima Island for beautiful coastal views.
- Ikebukuro : Explore Sunshine City and its aquarium or Otome Road for anime fans.
- Kichijoji : Stroll through Inokashira Park and visit the Ghibli Museum (book in advance).
Packing and Preparation Tips
- What to Pack :
- Comfortable walking shoes (Tokyo involves a lot of walking!).
- Rubbish bags to carry your rubbish (rubbish bins are not that common in Tokyo).
- Carry enough cash (not all places accept credit cards).
- Useful Apps :
- Google Maps or Japan Travel for navigation.
- Google Translate for language help.
Map of Locations Mentioned
With this 5-day Tokyo itinerary, you’ll experience the best of Tokyo, from its historic temples and bustling markets to its modern attractions and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re exploring Odaiba, enjoying Tokyo Disneyland, or taking a day trip to Nikko, Tokyo has something for everyone. Enjoy your trip! 🌸