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Tokyo Travel Guide
Tokyo is the world's largest metropolis and somehow also one of its most orderly — neon districts like Shibuya and Shinjuku, ancient temples in Asakusa, world-class sushi and ramen, quirky subcultures in Harajuku and Akihabara, all linked by a famously punctual rail network.
Best time to visit Tokyo
March–April for cherry blossoms and October–November for autumn colors. Avoid Golden Week (late April–early May) and mid-August (Obon) when domestic travel peaks.
Top things to do in Tokyo
- Shibuya Crossing and the Shibuya Sky observation deck
- Senso-ji Temple and old-town Asakusa
- Tsukiji Outer Market food stalls and sushi breakfasts
- Shinjuku's neon nightlife, Golden Gai bars, and Omoide Yokocho
- Meiji Shrine and Harajuku's Takeshita Street
- TeamLab digital art museums and Akihabara electronics/anime district
- Day trips to Nikko, Kamakura, or Mount Fuji (Hakone/Kawaguchiko)
How much does Tokyo cost?
Estimated daily costs per person, excluding international flights:
| Style | Daily budget | What it gets you |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | €60–90 / day | Hostels or capsule hotels, konbini and ramen meals, metro day passes |
| Mid-range | €120–220 / day | 3–4★ hotels in Shinjuku/Asakusa, izakaya dinners, paid attractions |
| Luxury | €350+ / day | 5★ hotels, omakase sushi, private guides, premium seats on the shinkansen |
Tokyo FAQ
How many days do you need in Tokyo?
4–5 days covers the main districts — Shibuya, Shinjuku, Asakusa, Harajuku, Akihabara — plus one day trip to Hakone, Kamakura, or Nikko.
When is the best time to visit Tokyo?
Late March to early April for cherry blossoms, or October–November for mild weather and autumn leaves. Summer is hot and humid; winter is cold but clear.
Is Tokyo expensive?
Less than its reputation suggests. Budget travelers manage on €60–90 per day using capsule hotels and ramen shops; mid-range trips run €120–220 per day.
Do I need a JR Pass for Tokyo?
Not for Tokyo alone — a Suica/Pasmo IC card is enough for the metro. A JR Pass only pays off if you take multiple long-distance shinkansen trips (e.g., Kyoto and back).
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