First Time in Tokyo? Your Essential Guide (2025)

Last Updated on October 14, 2025 by Vlad

Let’s be honest: you’re probably a bit terrified of Tokyo. The maps look like a bowl of ramen noodles, the train station has 200 exits, and no one seems to speak English. Good news: it’s all a lie. Tokyo is a secret introvert – incredibly orderly, logical, and easy to navigate once you learn its simple rules. My First Time in Tokyo guide will give you those rules.

I still remember my first trip to Tokyo. Standing in Shinjuku Station at 8pm, completely overwhelmed, trying to work out which exit would get me to my hotel (there are about 200 exits, by the way). I told myself I have made a terrible mistake coming here. Fast forward 24 hours and I was navigating the trains like a local and wondering why I’d ever stressed.

This isn’t a “see everything in Tokyo” guide. It’s about seeing the RIGHT things and actually enjoying yourself, not just ticking boxes for Instagram. This is your essential Tokyo travel guide for first-time visitors, based on actual experience – not just googling “best things to do in Tokyo” and regurgitating the same list everyone else has.

🎒 Tokyo Starter Pack (Don’t Land Without These)

• Google Maps (works perfectly for trains + walking)
• ¥10,000 cash per day (cards work… until they don’t)
• Comfortable shoes (20,000 steps a day is normal)
• Zero fear (Tokyo looks intense but it’s incredibly logical)

Nail these six things and you’re already 80% prepared.

If You Only Have One Day: The Absolute Can’t Miss Trio

Seriously short on time on your first trip to Tokyo? Hit these three and you’ve experienced the city:

1. Morning: Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa (arrive by 8:30am, walk Nakamise-dori)
2. Midday: Shibuya Crossing → Harajuku (crepe + Takeshita Street) → Meiji Shrine
3. Evening: Shinjuku (dinner at Omoide Yokocho, explore Kabukicho lights)

This route flows naturally on train lines, covers traditional and modern Tokyo, and won’t kill you with walking. Now let’s dig into the full guide.

Before You Arrive: The Basics

Here’s what you need to know before your first time in Tokyo – the practical stuff that’ll make your life way easier.

🎯 What to Expect in Tokyo (Reality Check)

Tokyo IS:

• ✅ Safer than your hometown (seriously, you can walk anywhere at 2am)
• ✅ Cleaner than your kitchen (no rubbish anywhere, spotless trains)
• ✅ Easier to navigate than Google makes it seem (trains are logical, signs are English)
• ✅ Way more polite than anywhere else (people are incredibly helpful)

Tokyo is NOT:

• ❌ A 24-hour neon rave (most places close by midnight)
• ❌ Everyone wearing anime costumes (you’ll see maybe 2 people in Harajuku)
• ❌ Impossible to navigate without Japanese (you’ll be fine with English and gestures)
• ❌ Intimidating once you’re actually there (the anxiety melts away fast)

Best time to visit Tokyo:

• Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms, mild weather, busy as hell
• Autumn (September-November): Beautiful, comfortable, slightly less busy
• Summer (June-August): Hot, humid, rainy season, but fewer tourists
• Winter (December-February): Cold but clear, Christmas lights, quiet

How many days do you need?

• Minimum: 3 days
• Sweet spot: 4-5 days
• Ideal: 1 week Honestly, 3-4 days is enough for a first trip. Save some things for your second visit (because you’ll definitely want to come back).

Where to stay:

• Shinjuku: Central, great transport links, slightly chaotic
• Shibuya: Young vibe, good nightlife, excellent trains
• Asakusa: More traditional, quieter, cheaper
• Ueno: Near parks and museums, good transport, more relaxed than Shinjuku
• Ginza: Fancy, expensive, less convenient for sightseeing
• Nakameguro (hidden gem): Trendy but quiet, canal-side area with cafes and boutiques, excellent train access to Shibuya (5 mins). Way less touristy but still super convenient. Great if you want a more local vibe without sacrificing accessibility.

Quick Hotel Picks (if you need suggestions):

• Asakusa: The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon – sunrise views of the temple, 2-min walk to Senso-ji. Perfect location.
• Ueno: Mitsui Garden Ueno – directly across from JR station, park and zoo at your door. Super convenient.
• Shinjuku: Century Southern Tower – quiet side of Shinjuku, steps from JR station. Less chaotic than main area.
• Shibuya: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu – directly above Shibuya Station, can’t get more convenient. Right in the action.
• Nakameguro: Hotel Claska – boutique design hotel in trendy neighbourhood, 3-min walk from station. Local vibe without sacrificing convenience.

Where NOT to stay (for first-timers):

• Tokyo Station/Marunouchi: Business district, dead at night, not much to do after 6pm
• Roppongi: Nightlife-heavy, can be sleazy, not worth paying the premium
• Ginza (unless you’re loaded): Beautiful but expensive and quiet after 9pm – you’ll be bored

Don’t stress too much – anywhere near a train station is fine.

Transport essentials:

• Get a Welcome Suica at the airport (special tourist-only IC cards valid for 28 days). Alternatively, if you have an iPhone, add a digital Suica/Pasmo to your Apple Wallet – this is actually the easiest method
• Note: Regular Suica/Pasmo cards for tourists have been suspended since 2023 due to chip shortages, so use the options above. Pasmo Passport has been discontinued since 2024.
• Download Google Maps (it works perfectly in Tokyo)
• Trains run 5am-midnight (miss the last train = expensive taxi)
• It’s easier than it looks (promise)

Money matters:

• Bring cash AND card (not everywhere takes card)
• 7-Eleven ATMs accept international cards
• Daily budget: ¥5,000-10,000 for food and stuff (about $50-100 AUD)
• No tipping, ever

Internet:

• Pocket wifi OR eSIM (both work fine)
• Most hotels have wifi
• Free wifi at Starbucks, konbini, stations (sometimes)

✈️ Tokyo Arrival Playbook (Narita & Haneda)

1. Get online: eSIM or pocket Wi-Fi at the terminal.
2. IC card: Add Suica to Apple Wallet (fastest) or buy Welcome Suica (28-day tourist card).
3. Cash: Withdraw at a 7-Eleven ATM.
4. Into the city:
   • Haneda → Keikyu (to Shinagawa) or Monorail (to Hamamatsuchō), ~15–25 min.
   • Narita → Narita Express (fastest) or airport bus (cheaper, hotel-area drops).
     (Link your N’EX vs Limousine Bus post here.)

The Non-Negotiables (Must-See for First-Timers)

These are the best things to do in Tokyo on your first visit – the places that capture Tokyo’s essence without overwhelming you.

Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa)

This is Tokyo’s most famous temple, and yeah, it’s touristy, but it’s worth it.

Why you should go:

• It’s the oldest temple in Tokyo (628 AD)
• The approach through Nakamise-dori shopping street is brilliant
• Actually quite beautiful, especially early morning
• Good introduction to Japanese temple culture
• Decent for photos (if you’re into that)

How to do it right:

• Go early (before 9am) to beat the crowds
• Walk down Nakamise-dori shopping street (snacks, souvenirs, trinkets)
• Don’t spend hours here (30-45 mins is plenty)
• Get your fortune (¥100 at the stalls)
• Walk along Sumida River afterward for Skytree views

What to skip:

• The overpriced restaurants right next to the temple
• Buying the first souvenir you see (everything’s cheaper elsewhere)

Personal experience: I went at 7:30am on a Tuesday and basically had the place to myself. Went back at 2pm on a Saturday and couldn’t move. Timing is everything.

For more on what to do in the Asakusa area, see Neighbourhoods Decoded: Asakusa below.

Shibuya Crossing

The iconic Tokyo moment. Thousands of people crossing a street at once while you watch from above feeling like you’re in Lost in Translation.

What to do:

• Go to Starbucks in Tsutaya building (2nd floor) for the best view
• Or Shibuya Scramble Square observation deck (paid, but higher view)
• Visit at night for the full neon experience
• Cross it yourself at least once
• See the Hachiko statue (famous dog statue, always surrounded by tourists)

How long to spend: 15-30 minutes, honestly. It’s cool, you’ll watch it a few times, take some photos, then you’re done. Don’t overthink it.

What else is in Shibuya:

• Loads of shopping (Shibuya 109, Tokyu Hands)
• Center Gai for food and bars
• Cat Street for boutique shopping
• Pokemon Center (5 min walk)

For more on what to do in Shibuya and where to eat, see the Neighbourhoods Decoded: Shibuya section below.

Meiji Shrine & Yoyogi Park

The peaceful antidote to Tokyo’s chaos. A massive shrine in a forest, right in the middle of the city.

Why it’s great:

• Calm, green, peaceful (weird for Tokyo)
• Easy walk from Harajuku
• Free to enter
• Often see traditional weddings
• Gives you perspective on Japanese culture and religion

How to approach it:

• Walk from Harajuku Station (5 mins)
• Enter through the big torii gates
• Wander through the forest path
• Visit the shrine
• Write a wish on an ema (wooden plaque)
• Exit through Yoyogi Park if you have time

Best time: Early morning is magical. Weekend afternoons get busy but it’s big enough that it doesn’t feel packed.

Combine with: Harajuku (they’re right next to each other, do both in one go)

Harajuku & Takeshita Street

Organised chaos in the best way. This is where Tokyo gets weird and wonderful.

What to see:

• Takeshita Street (pedestrian shopping street, total sensory overload)
• Crazy fashion and cosplay (less common now but still around)
• Crepe stands (just get one, they’re insane)
• Quirky shops selling everything from socks to costume jewellery

When to go:

• Weekday afternoons: Busy but manageable
• Weekends: Absolutely mental, sardine-tin level crowds
• Early morning: Dead quiet (nothing’s open though)

How long: 30-45 minutes is enough for most people. It’s fun, but intense.

Escape routes when it’s too much:

• Duck into Omotesando (5 min walk, way more chill)
• Head to Meiji Shrine
• Hit up a cafe and regroup

Personal take: Get a crepe, walk down the street, laugh at the fashion, then get out. It’s fun in small doses but if you’re not a teenager, you’ll be over it pretty quick.

Tsukiji Outer Market

The main fish market moved to Toyosu, but the outer market stayed and it’s still brilliant for breakfast or brunch.

What’s there:

• Fresh seafood stalls
• Sushi breakfast (yes, sushi at 8am is normal here)
• Street food (grilled scallops, tamago, tuna bowls)
• Kitchen supplies (if you’re into that)
• Produce and dry goods

Best time: 7-10am. Come hungry, eat everything.

What to eat:

• Sushi breakfast at one of the stalls (¥2,000-4,000)
• Grilled seafood on sticks as you walk
• Tamago (egg omelette) – sounds boring, tastes amazing
• Fresh fruit (expensive but incredible quality)

What to skip:

• The queue at Sushi Dai (2-3 hour wait for sushi that’s good but not THAT good)
• Tourist trap stalls charging ¥3,000 for a few pieces

Pro tip: Just wander and eat what looks good. Everything’s fresh, most of it’s delicious.

The “Should You?” Attractions (Quick-Glance Guide)

Not sure what’s worth your time? Here’s a scannable breakdown:

Attraction	Worth It?	Why
Senso-ji Temple	✅ YES	Iconic, atmospheric, easy. Do it early morning.
Shibuya Crossing	✅ YES	Must-do Tokyo moment. 15 mins max.
Meiji Shrine	✅ YES	Peaceful break from city chaos. Free.
Harajuku	✅ YES	Weird, fun, memorable. Get a crepe and leave.
Tokyo Skytree	❓ MAYBE	Only if you love observation decks. Expensive.
Tokyo Tower	❓ MAYBE	Cheaper than Skytree, still just a view.
Free Observatory (Shinjuku)	✅ YES	Same view as paid ones. Zero yen. Smart choice.
Akihabara	✅ for nerds / ❌ for others	Gamers and anime fans will love it. Everyone else: skip.
Roppongi Art Museums	✅ YES	If you like art. Good rainy day option.
Roppongi Nightlife	❌ NO	Overpriced, can be sleazy. Better nightlife in Shibuya/Shinjuku.
Imperial Palace	❌ NO	You can’t go inside. Gardens are okay but not essential.
Toyosu Fish Auction	❌ NO	Far, early, boring for 99% of people.
Robot Restaurant	❌ NO	Permanently closed.

Still want more details on any of these? Keep reading for the full breakdown.

Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower?

Look, unless you’re obsessed with views, pick one or skip both. Cities look like cities from above. That said, if you must…

Tokyo Skytree:

• Modern, tallest structure in Tokyo (634m)
• Better views (higher up)
• More expensive (¥3,000-4,000)
• Better at night (lights everywhere)
• Near Asakusa (combine with Senso-ji)

Tokyo Tower:

• Classic, nostalgic (Eiffel Tower vibes)
• Lower but still good views
• Cheaper (¥1,200-2,800)
• Illuminated at night (pretty from below)
• Near Roppongi

Still not sure which one to pick? Check out our full comparison of Tokyo Tower vs Tokyo Skytree to help you decide.

Cheaper alternative: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku – FREE observation deck, 45th floor, open until 11pm. Same view, zero yen.

My take: Skip them unless you’re really into observation decks. Spend the time and money elsewhere.

Akihabara (Electric Town)

Who it’s for:

• Gamers (retro and new games everywhere)
• Anime/manga fans
• Tech nerds
• People who want to see something uniquely Tokyo

Who can skip it:

• Everyone else, honestly

If you go, highlights:

• Retro game shops (Super Potato is famous)
• Arcades (GiGO, Taito)
• Anime shops (everywhere)
• Maid cafes (if you’re curious, just know what you’re getting into)

How long: 1-2 hours is plenty unless you’re really into this stuff.

Personal take: I love it because I’m a nerd. My partner finds it overwhelming and weird. Know yourself.

Fun & Quirky Tokyo Experiences

These are cheap, silly, and quintessentially Tokyo moments everyone should try:

Gachapon (Capsule Toy Machines)

• Those colourful vending machines with random toys inside
• ¥200-500 per capsule
• Everything from tiny sushi keychains to miniature household appliances
• Best spots: Akihabara, any big station, Don Quijote
• You never know what you’ll get – that’s the fun

Purikura (Photo Booth Stickers)

• Over-the-top photo booths that make you look like an anime character
• ¥400-600 for a session
• Choose backgrounds, add sparkles, edit your eyes to be huge
• Print sticker sheets to take home
• Mostly found in game centres (Round1, Taito Station)
• Great for a laugh, even if you’re not 15

These are classic Tokyo experiences that cost less than a coffee but make for great memories (and Instagram content, if you’re into that).

Roppongi

Tokyo’s nightlife and art hub.

Daytime:

• Mori Art Museum (usually good exhibitions)
• Observation deck at Mori Tower (¥1,800, good views)
• National Art Center (free entry, cool building)

Night-time:

• Bars and clubs (international crowd)
• Restaurants (expensive)
• A bit sleazy in parts (just FYI)

Who should go:

• Art lovers (museums are genuinely good)
• People wanting nightlife
• Those staying nearby

Who can skip:

• Anyone wanting “traditional” Tokyo
• Budget travelers (it’s exy)
• Families with kids

Imperial Palace

Let’s be honest: You can’t actually go inside most of it.

What you CAN do:

• Walk around the East Gardens (free, quite nice)
• Look at it from the outside
• Take photos of the bridges
• Join a palace tour (book months in advance)

Is it worth it? Only if:

• You’re really into history
• You’re nearby anyway (near Tokyo Station)
• You want a quiet walk in gardens

Skip if:

• You’re time-limited
• You’ve seen other palaces/castles
• You’re expecting to see inside (you won’t)

Personal take: The gardens are pleasant but it’s not a must-see. Wouldn’t make a special trip.

Where to Eat (First-Timer Friendly)

Worried about what to eat? Japan has way more Western food than you think – pizza, burgers, pasta, bakeries, even Aussie cafés. You won’t starve, and your kids definitely won’t either.

Can’t-Miss Food Experiences

Ramen:

• Try at least once (you’re in Tokyo!)
• Which style first? Tonkotsu (pork bone) is rich and creamy, good starter
• Where? Ichiran (chain, tourist-friendly) or Ippudo (also chain, very good)
• ¥800-1,200 per bowl
• Slurp loudly (seriously, it’s expected!)

Sushi:

• Cheap option: Sushi tray (conveyor belt) – Genki Sushi, Kura Sushi – ¥100-300 per plate
• Mid-range: Standalone sushi restaurants ¥2,000-5,000
• Splurge: Tsukiji market breakfast ¥3,000-8,000 Don’t feel pressured to do fancy sushi – cheap sushi in Japan is better than expensive sushi back home.

Izakaya (Japanese pub):

• Must-do for dinner or lunch experience
• Order small plates to share
• Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), edamame, karaage (fried chicken) and so much more that you won’t even know what you are eating
• ¥2,000-4,000 per person including drinks
• Look for places with red lanterns

Conveyor Belt Sushi / Sushi Train: Even if you do “proper” sushi, do this once. It’s fun, cheap, and you can try heaps of different things without commitment. And trust me, you will be back for more!

Depachika (Department Store Basements): Food halls in basement levels of department stores. Prepared foods, desserts, bento boxes. Perfect for trying heaps of things. Most close by 8pm.

Specific Recommendations

Best areas for food:

• Shinjuku: Everything, everywhere
• Shibuya: Chains and trendy spots
• Yurakucho: Yakitori alley (under the train tracks)
• Asakusa: Traditional Japanese
• Anywhere near a station (literally anywhere)

Chains that don’t suck:

• Ichiran: Solo ramen booths, customize your bowl
• Ippudo: Excellent ramen, always busy (worth it)
• Coco Ichibanya: Curry, customizable spice level
• Yoshinoya/Sukiya: Beef bowls, cheap and fast
• Katsuya: Tonkatsu (pork cutlet), filling

Mid-range worth trying:

• Any yakitori place with a queue
• Izakayas down side streets (look for locals)
• Sushi places without English signs (brave it)

What to Skip

Avoid these:

• Restaurants with pictures AND English menus outside (usually tourist traps)
• Anywhere near a major tourist site (Senso-ji, Shibuya crossing)
• Hotel restaurants (except breakfast buffets, those can be good)
• Anywhere advertising “authentic Japanese food” in English (if it’s authentic, they don’t need to say it)

Neighbourhoods Decoded

Shinjuku

Vibe: Organised chaos, neon lights, business district meets entertainment

Best for:

• Shopping (everything from Uniqlo to high-end)
• Nightlife (Golden Gai for bars, Kabukicho for… everything else)
• Transport hub (go anywhere from here)
• People watching

Must-see:

• Omoide Yokocho (narrow alley, yakitori stalls, smoky and atmospheric)
• Kabukicho at night (just walk through, it’s an experience)
• Metropolitan Building for free views

Skip:

• Trying to shop everywhere (overwhelming)
• Getting lost in underground passages (you will anyway, just accept it)

Time needed: Half day to full day

Shibuya

Vibe: Young, energetic, shopping and nightlife central

Best for:

• The crossing (obvious)
• Shopping (youth fashion, department stores)
• Nightlife (bars, clubs, karaoke)
• Feeling Tokyo’s energy

Must-see:

• The crossing (Hachiko exit)
• Hachiko statue
• Center Gai (pedestrian street, food and bars)

Skip:

• Buying everything (you’ll see the same shops elsewhere)
• Peak times if you don’t like crowds

Time needed: 2-4 hours

Harajuku/Omotesando

Vibe: Fashion, youth culture, expensive boutiques

Best for:

• People watching (fashion is wild)
• Crepes and photo ops
• Meiji Shrine combo
• Window shopping

Must-see:

• Takeshita Street (briefly)
• Meiji Shrine
• Cat Street (quieter, boutique shops)

Skip:

• Actually buying clothes (overpriced, you can get it online)
• Weekends (unless you love crowds)

Time needed: 2-3 hours

Asakusa

Vibe: Old Tokyo, traditional, slightly touristy

Best for:

• Temple experience (Senso-ji)
• Traditional shopping
• Feeling “historic” Tokyo
• River walks

Must-see:

• Senso-ji Temple
• Nakamise-dori shopping street
• River walk with Skytree views

Skip:

• Touristy restaurants on the main drag
• Overpriced souvenirs (same stuff cheaper in Shibuya)

Time needed: 2-3 hours

Ginza

Vibe: Upscale, expensive, sophisticated

Best for:

• Window shopping (Chanel, Dior, etc.)
• Department stores (Mitsukoshi, Wako)
• Sunday walks (pedestrian zone)
• Fancy dining

Must-see:

• Sunday pedestrian zone (12-5pm)
• Department store depachika basements
• Just walking around (it’s pretty)

Skip:

• Actually shopping (unless you’re loaded)
• Restaurants (overpriced for tourists)

Time needed: 1-2 hours

Getting Around Without Losing Your Mind

Train System Basics

The truth: It’s way easier than it looks.

How it works:

• Multiple train companies (JR, Metro, private lines)
• Same IC card works on all of them
• Google Maps tells you exactly which train to catch
• Trains are frequent (every 3-5 mins usually)
• Super clean, always on time

Getting started:

1. Get a Welcome Suica at the airport (tourist cards, valid 28 days) OR add digital Suica/Pasmo to your iPhone via Apple Wallet
2. Tap on, tap off
3. Top up at machines when low
4. Follow Google Maps directions

Peak hours to avoid:

• 7-9am (morning rush, absolute nightmare)
• 5-7pm (evening rush, slightly less bad) If you can avoid these times, do it.

Where to stand on escalators: Left side! Right side is for walking. Don’t be that tourist blocking the way.

Common Train System Mistakes

Mistakes I see all the time:

• Overthinking the trains (just follow Google Maps!)
• Not downloading offline maps (do this)
• Trying to walk everywhere (Tokyo’s HUGE, you’ll die)
• Missing the last train (check times, last trains are usually 11:30pm-midnight)
• Standing in the way (move to the side, always)

Do this instead:

• Trust Google Maps completely
• Download Tokyo offline on Google Maps before you go
• Use trains for almost everything (it’s easy, I promise)
• Check last train times before you go out drinking
• Be aware of your surroundings (move aside for people)

What to Actually Skip (Yes, Really)

Here’s the controversial bit – stuff everyone says to do that you can honestly skip:

You can skip and not regret it:

• Fish market auction at Toyosu: It moved, it’s far, it’s not worth it unless you’re REALLY into fish
• Every single temple: Pick 1-2 max. After that they blur together
• Robot Restaurant: Closed now anyway, but even when it was open it was overpriced and outdated
• Too many observation decks: Pick one or none
• Harajuku on Sundays: Unless you like sardine tins

The controversial one: If you only have 3-4 days and it’s your first trip to Japan, you can skip Kyoto. Focus on Tokyo, save Kyoto for your second trip when you have more time. Hot take, I know, but trying to squeeze both in a short trip means you’ll enjoy neither. Instead, get your traditional culture fix with a day trip to Kamakura or Nikko – they’re closer, less overwhelming, and you’ll still get temples and nature without the logistics nightmare.

First-Timer Mistakes I See All The Time

Don’t Do These

Travel mistakes:

• Packing too much into one day (you’ll hate Tokyo)
• Only eating “safe” Western food (you came to Japan!)
• Not carrying cash (still needed heaps of places)
• Wearing uncomfortable shoes (20,000+ steps is normal)
• Being loud on trains (just… don’t)
• Tipping (seriously, don’t do it)
• Stressing about not speaking Japanese (you’ll be fine)

Social mistakes:

• Not taking shoes off when required (look for shoe racks at entrance)
• Eating while walking (frowned upon, eat at the stall then move)
• Talking on phone on trains (everyone will hate you)
• Not standing in line properly (queue culture is serious)
• Blowing your nose in public (go to a toilet)

Do This Instead

• Plan 2-3 things per day max
• Try at least one “scary” food (it’s never as scary as you think)
• Hit up 7-Eleven ATMs regularly
• Bring good walking shoes (I wore through a pair in 6 days)
• Use inside voice everywhere
• Just pay the bill amount shown (no tipping!)
• Learn “sumimasen” (excuse me) and “arigatou” (thanks) – that’s honestly enough

Sample 3-Day Itinerary for First-Timers

Day 1: Classic Tokyo

Morning:

• Senso-ji Temple (arrive by 8:30am)
• Wander Nakamise-dori shopping street
• Sumida River walk

Lunch:

• Tsukiji Outer Market (taxi/train there)

Afternoon:

• Harajuku (Takeshita Street, get a crepe)
• Meiji Shrine

Evening:

• Shibuya Crossing
• Dinner in Shibuya (izakaya or ramen)

Day 2: Modern & Mix

Morning:

• Tsukiji breakfast (sushi or street food)

Late morning:

• Ginza walk (window shop, depachika browsing)

Afternoon:

• Your choice:
  • Akihabara if you’re into games/anime
  • Shopping in Shibuya/Harajuku if you missed stuff
  • Chill in a park

Evening:

• Shinjuku (Omoide Yokocho for dinner)
• Explore Kabukicho
• Golden Gai for drinks (tiny bars, unique vibe)

Day 3: Choose Your Own Adventure

Option A – Day Trip:

• Nikko (temples, nature, 2 hours from Tokyo)
• Kamakura (Great Buddha, beaches, 1 hour from Tokyo)

Option B – Deeper Tokyo:

• Neighbourhoods you missed
• Slower pace, explore more
• Shopping and food focus

Option C – Mix:

• Morning: Last-minute shopping/sightseeing
• Afternoon: Day trip to nearby area
• Evening: Return for final Tokyo dinner

Practical Stuff You’ll Actually Need

Money

• Carry ¥10,000-20,000 cash daily (about $100-200 AUD)
• 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart ATMs accept international cards
• Credit cards increasingly accepted but don’t rely on them entirely
• No tipping culture (seriously, no tipping)

Transport

• Suica/Pasmo card (rechargeable IC card)
• Google Maps for all directions
• Last trains around 11:30pm-midnight
• First trains around 5am
• Trains are the answer to everything

Cultural Quick Hits

• Trains: Quiet, no phone calls, give up priority seating
• Restaurants: Don’t tip, say “gochisousama deshita” when you leave (thanks for the meal)
• Shoes: Take them off when you see a shoe rack at entrance
• Rubbish: Hardly any public bins, carry it until you find one (konbini, stations)
• Queues: Stand in line, wait your turn, don’t push

📋 Tokyo Etiquette Cheat Sheet (Screenshot This!)

• ✅ Line up for everything (trains, food, toilets – queuing is serious)
• ✅ Speak quietly on trains (no phone calls, use your inside voice)
• ✅ Don’t eat while walking (eat at the stall, then move on)
• ✅ Shoes off indoors (if you see slippers or tatami mats at entrance)
• ✅ No tipping (just pay the bill amount, that’s it)
• ✅ Bow or nod = fine (don’t stress about perfect bows)

That’s honestly all you need to know. Follow these and you’ll blend right in.

Emergency & Help

• Koban: Police boxes everywhere (small blue police stations)
• “Help” in Japanese: “Tasukete” (probably won’t need it, Tokyo’s super safe)
• Lost property: Tokyo has the best lost property system in the world (you’ll probably get it back)
• English help: Look for people wearing “Tourist Information” badges

Download Before You Go

• Google Maps (offline Tokyo map)
• Google Translate (offline Japanese)
• Hyperdia or Google Maps (train times)
• Your hotel address in Japanese (show to taxi drivers)

Bottom Line

What surprised me most about Tokyo:

I expected Tokyo to be chaotic and stressful. What shocked me most? How QUIET it is. How CLEAN it is. How HELPFUL people are. It’s nothing like the movies. It’s the easiest city I’ve ever navigated – and I didn’t speak a word of Japanese on my first visit. The anxiety you’re feeling right now? It’ll disappear about 6 hours after you land.

Tokyo’s brilliant for first-time visitors if you don’t try to do everything. The trains are easy, the food’s amazing, you won’t get lost for long, and people are helpful even if there’s a language barrier.

Don’t try to do everything. Pick your highlights, walk heaps, eat everything that looks good, and save some stuff for your inevitable second trip. Because you’ll want to come back – everyone does.

The secret to enjoying Tokyo isn’t seeing everything – it’s seeing the right things at the right pace and actually having fun rather than just ticking boxes.

Now stop reading and start planning for your first trip. You’ve got this.

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First time in Tokyo? What are you most nervous/excited about? Drop a comment below!