As one of the world’s largest and most dynamic cities, Tokyo offers a captivating blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. This Japan itinerary 7 days in Tokyo , based on my own experiences, will help you make the most of your first visit to the Japanese capital.
A Week of Discovery
This 7 days in Tokyo Japan itinerary will take you through a diverse range of neighborhoods, from the futuristic districts of Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Harajuku to the historic charm of Yanaka. You will explore stunning religious sites like Meiji Shrine and Senso-ji Temple, and even venture outside the city for a day trip to Mount Fuji (here a guide to an organized tour to Mt.Fuji or a DIY day trip).
A City of Contrasts
Tokyo is truly a metropolis unlike any other, a vibrant tapestry woven from countless distinct neighborhoods. By dedicating a full week to the city, you will be able to immerse yourselves in its diverse culture and appreciate its unique character.
The juxtaposition of old and new is one of the most fascinating aspects of the city, the serene traditional temples nestled amidst the bustling, high-tech cityscape. It is an incredible opportunity to experience Japanese culture firsthand.
I hope this itinerary inspires your own unforgettable journey through Tokyo.
Short on Time?
If you only have a few days, check out my 3-Day Tokyo Itinerary for a concise yet fulfilling experience.
Day 1: A whirlwind of Culture and Cuisine
The first day in Tokyo can be a whirlwind adventure through some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. Spend the day in the stylish district of Nishiazabu, a hidden gem known for its upscale boutiques and charming backstreets.
Next, venture to the vibrant Harajuku neighborhood, a haven for youth culture and quirky fashion. You can indulge in a sweet crepe and explore the nearby Yoyogi Park, home to the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine. This park is also a popular spot for street performers and festivals.
After working up an appetite, head to Shibuya, the bustling heart of Tokyo. Cross the famous Shibuya Crossing, a mesmerizing spectacle of thousands of people crossing the intersection at once. Then enjoy a delicious bowl of ramen at a local eatery before exploring the lively streets of Shibuya.
In the evening, indulge in a unique dining experience at Gonpachi, a traditional Japanese restaurant inspired by the iconic Kill Bill scene. After dinner, you can ventur into the neon-lit streets of Shinjuku, exploring the legendary Golden Gai and Piss Alley. These narrow alleyways are lined with tiny bars, each with its own unique atmosphere. You may end up spending hours wandering through these atmospheric streets, sampling local drinks and soaking up the vibrant nightlife.
Day 2: Northern Tokyo
On second day, explore Northern Tokyo, focusing on the historic Asakusa and Yanaka neighborhoods, the sprawling Ueno Park, and the magnificent Senso-ji Temple.
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Yanaka Ginza
Yanaka has a much more laid-back vibe and a slower pace than central Tokyo. I wander through the busy shopping streets of Yanaka Ginza, lined with tiny stores and shop fronts. The shopkeepers will be incredibly gracious!
Ueno Park
Near Yanaka is Ueno Park, another vast green space in Tokyo. Crossing the park represent a pacefull and pleasant walk under Sakura trees during spring and an amazing walk into all shade of red and orange during autumn.
The Park is home to the Ueno Zoo and six museums featuring Japanese art, history, and culture: the National Museum of Nature and Science, the Tokyo National Museum, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, the Ueno Royal Museum, the National Museum of Western Art, and the Shitamachi Museum.
Ueno
Outside the park, Ueno offers a pleasant stroll through the shopping alley known as Ameya-Yokocho (Ameyoko). Enter this labyrinth of tiny streets in front of the Ueno station main entrance. The alleys host an array of shops and eateries.
If you need one more suitcase to bring back home with all the souvenirs you bought, Ameyoko is where you can find it for cheap.
Okonomiyaki
For dinner, try Sometaro, an okonomiyaki restaurant where you can cook your own okonomiyaki at the table (with assistance from the staff).
Okonomiyaki is a Japanese dish similar to an omelette, often made with pork and cabbage, drizzled with special okonomiyaki sauce. It’s delicious, and cooking it by yourself is a lot of fun. Sometaro is recommended in Lonely Planet, so it may be a bit of a tourist spot, but it didn’t feel like a typical tourist trap.
Senso-ji Temple
After dinner, head to the magnificent Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Senso-ji is Tokyo’s oldest and most significant temple, originally built in 645. It was destroyed during the air raids in World War II and has since been beautifully rebuilt.
Senso-ji feels like the heart of the community, surrounded by the bustling Nakamise Dori Markets, with yakitori and izakaya bars lining the nearby streets. There are crowds of locals visiting the temple and paying their respects, creating a vibrant atmosphere. It quickly became my favorite temple in Tokyo—if you visit just one, make it this one!
Read Also: Where to sleep in Tokyo: Finding the perfect area to stay
Day 3: Shinjuku, Minami-Aoyama & Nishiazabu
In the morning, you head to Shinjuku to visit the free Observation Deck at the top of the Tokyo Metro Government Building. Eenjoy an impressive view over the endless city.
There’s a canteen on one of the lower levels designed for government employees, but it’s technically open to the public. Shinjuku is surprisingly devoid of places to eat, and you spend a long time wandering around looking for food.
Minami Aoyama
In the afternoon, explore the Minami-Aoyama neighborhood. Often referred to as the West Village of Tokyo, Minami-Aoyama is one o my favorite areas.
Like Nishiazabu, Minami-Aoyama is relatively tourist-free and filled with trendy shops, boutiques, cafes, and charming residential streets.
Stop for tea at the Minami Aoyama Flower Market, a gorgeous florist and greenhouse-style café. Their desserts look out of this world, but you opt for tea instead. It’s the perfect spot to relax on a rainy afternoon.
Dinner & Drinks in Nishiazabu
Dinner at Butagumi, a tonkatsu restaurant tucked away in the backstreets of Nishiazabu. It’s one of the most highly regarded tonkatsu restaurants in Tokyo, yet much less touristy than its competitor, Maison.
Even though you’re not a huge fan of pork, schnitzel, or curry, you find that their classic pork tonkatsu—a breaded pork dish served with a curry-like sauce—is one of the best meals you’ve ever had.
The ambiance is exactly what you’d hope for in a traditional Japanese restaurant. The place has no signage, just a small light at the front door, nestled among houses in the backstreets of Nishiazabu—easy to miss.
After dinner, check out one of the many bars along the way. Like Butagumi, these bars are easy to overlook, with closed doors and small signs, often lit just enough to indicate they’re open.
Be aware that, despite Tokyo’s tech-savvy culture, many places still do not accept credit card (especially contactless payment) so be sure to bring a good amount of cash with you all the time.
Day 4: Day Trip to Mt. Fuji & Hakone
Since Mt. Fuji is only two hours outside of Tokyo, a day trip is a perfect fit. You can book a day trip tour to Mt. Fuji and the surrounding Hakone region on Klook (a reliable Tours and Experience operator in Japan), here a few recommended:
Klook.comOtherwise, it’s easy to setup a day trip to My.Fuji by yourself, I explain all the steps needed and all the transport information here.
Lake Ashi, Hakone
You can add Lake Ashi in the Hakone region to the day trip, known for its hot springs and spas. Enjoy a stroll at the lake level and then take the cable car to the top of Mt. Hakone.
If you want to add it to the day tour, be sure to read my daily itinerary in Hakone.
Catching a Bullet Train
At the end of the day, take the Shinkansen (the bullet train) back to Tokyo: the journey is smooth, efficient, and comfortable—what a way to travel!
You can get off at the station in Ginza, Tokyo’s most upscale neighborhood, filled with luxury shopping and department stores. It reminds a bit of Fifth Avenue in New Yor. Enjoy a bento box dinner from a local shop.
How is this “Japan Itinerary 7 days in Tokyo” going so far? Want more? Don’t miss my Two Weeks in Japan itinerary, you won’t regret it!
Day 5: The Imperial Palace & Tokyo Tower
The Imperial Palace
On fifth day, visit the Imperial Palace, the residence of the Emperor of Japan. The palace is situated on the site of the former Edo Castle, surrounded by beautiful gardens and moats.
Wander around the gardens for a bit before heading to Shibuya for lunch.
Lunch in Shibuya
In Shibuya there are clusters of restaurants and shops located under the major train tracks, so you choose one to try out. You can enjoy a budget-friendly lunch special that includes miso soup, edamame, and noodles.
Views over Tokyo
At night, visit the bar at Prince Park Tower for stunning views over Tokyo and Tokyo Tower.
You can stroll near Tokyo Tower, the city’s red counterpart to the Eiffel Tower. If you’ve already enjoyed a night view of the city from above (Shibuya Sky or Tokyo Skytree), you can skip going up the tower. Otherwise, I recommend giving it a try.
The nighttime views over Tokyo are really enojyable.
Day 6: Tsukiji Fish Market & Ebisu
Tsukiji Fish Market
The Tsukiji Fish Market was once the largest and most bustling fish market globally, renowned for its early morning tuna auctions. While it closed in 2018 and moved to Toyosu (more on Toyosu Market), the area still boasts numerous sushi bars and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood for breakfast or lunch.
Given its historical significance, the Tsukiji Fish Market is still worth a visit, even though the main market has relocated.
Exploring Ebisu
Ebisu, is a neighborhood off the typical tourist path. It’s simply a regular neighborhood, and an enjoyable everyday area of a city that isn’t highlighted in guidebooks.
Day 7: Farewell to Tokyo
On the seventh day, you flight back home awaits.
In just one week, you can experienc so much of Tokyo, and visit the city is a fantastic introduction to Japan. I bet after this 7 days in Tokyo you will be eager to return and explore more of the countryside and other towns.
Having seen a lot of Tokyo, you can focus your next trip on different regions of the country—next on the list could be Okinawa Islands, Osaka, Kyoto, and more of northern Japan.
Recommended Activities to Complement this Itinerary
Tokyo Disney Resort Park Tickets
Essential for your trip to Japan
Best Resources for your next trip to Japan
Book your flights with Skyscanner
Start your Japan adventure by scoring the best deals on flights! Utilize Skyscanner a one-stop search engine that displays flights from all major and local airlines. It ensures you see every available option, maximizing your chances of finding the cheapest price.Book accomodations throughout Japan
Japan offers a wide range of accommodation choices. Expedia & Agoda boast the largest selection and consistently offer competitive prices for hotels and hostels.Book Traditional Experiences
Enrich your Japan experience with guided tours. Check out these popular booking platforms: Klook specializes in tours across Asia, including Japan. Viator provides the most extensive selection of tours.Stay connected
Staying connected during your trip is crucial for browsing essential apps like Google maps and NAVITIME. While you have a few options to get internet, eSims are my favorite and higly recommended one.Airalo and Sakura Mobile are my favorite providers!Book your Japan Rail Pass
Japan has an extensive rail network with various passes to navigate it. Japan Rail Pass is one of the most popular passes, offering unlimited access to many national JR lines. Purchase it through Klook before your trip. But be sure it is worth based on your itinerary (more here). A cheaper alternative are Regional Passes: Explore regional options like the Hakone Freepass for specific areas.Have you visited Tokyo? Would you like to go? What are your favorite activities there? Let me know in the comments below!
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