Tokyo 10 days

Tokyo's primary international gateway. Efficiently handle immigration and customs before connecting to the city.

• Consider purchasing a Suica or Pasmo IC card for easy transport payments.

A beautiful and expansive oasis featuring three distinct garden styles: English Landscape, French Formal, and Japanese Traditional. It's a perfect escape from the urban bustle.

• Check for seasonal flower blooms, especially in spring and autumn.
• Alcohol and sports equipment are not permitted inside.

A narrow alleyway packed with tiny yakitori stalls and izakayas, evoking a nostalgic post-war atmosphere. It's a fantastic spot for an authentic local dining experience.

• Many stalls are cash-only, so have some yen on hand.
• Be prepared for close quarters and a lively, smoky atmosphere.

Tokyo's oldest temple, a vibrant Buddhist site with a striking red pagoda and a bustling Nakamise-dori market leading up to it. Experience traditional Japanese temple culture and pick up souvenirs.

• Try some local street food from the stalls on Nakamise-dori.
• The temple grounds are beautiful at different times of day, consider a return visit.

A large public park home to several major museums, a zoo, and Toshogu Shrine. It's a cultural hub and a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring.

• Choose one museum to focus on, as there are many options.
• The park is vast, so wear comfortable shoes.

Japan's oldest and largest museum, housing an extensive collection of Japanese art and artifacts. Explore ancient sculptures, samurai armor, and delicate calligraphy.

• Consider the Honkan (Japanese Gallery) for a comprehensive overview.

A bustling street market under the railway tracks near Ueno Station, selling everything from fresh seafood and produce to clothing and cosmetics. It's a vibrant place to experience local commerce.

• Bargaining is not common here, but prices are generally reasonable.
• Great place to try street food snacks.

A peaceful oasis dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Walk through the serene forest path leading to the main shrine buildings, a stark contrast to the surrounding city.

• Visit on a weekend morning for a chance to see a traditional Shinto wedding procession.
• The walk through the forested grounds is as much a part of the experience as the shrine itself.

The vibrant heart of Harajuku's youth culture, known for its quirky fashion boutiques, colorful street food, and unique character shops. It's a sensory overload of sights and sounds.

• Try a giant rainbow cotton candy or a decadent crepe.
• Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.

The world's busiest intersection, where hundreds of pedestrians cross from multiple directions simultaneously. Experience the iconic scramble from the surrounding buildings or street level.

• The Starbucks overlooking the crossing offers a classic vantage point.
• Observe the organized chaos; it's a fascinating spectacle of urban life.

An observation deck offering panoramic 360-degree views of Tokyo, including a stunning perspective of Shibuya Crossing. It provides an unparalleled urban vista, especially at sunset and night.

• Book tickets in advance online to secure your preferred time slot.
• The open-air deck offers an exhilarating experience.

The former site of Edo Castle and now a public park offering a glimpse into Japan's imperial history. Explore the stone walls, moats, and remnants of the castle.

• The main palace grounds are generally not open to the public, but tours can sometimes be arranged in advance.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven paths.

A lively market district filled with vendors selling fresh seafood, produce, kitchenware, and street food. It's a culinary paradise for food lovers and a great place for a fresh sushi lunch.

• Arrive hungry and sample a variety of local delicacies.
• Best experienced in the morning, but still vibrant for lunch.

Tokyo's premier upscale shopping district, featuring flagship stores of international brands, department stores, art galleries, and fine dining restaurants. It's known for its elegant architecture and sophisticated atmosphere.

• On weekend afternoons, the main street (Chuo Dori) is often closed to traffic, becoming a pedestrian paradise.
• Explore the basement food halls (depachika) of department stores for gourmet treats.

The principal theatre for Kabuki performances in Tokyo. While attending a show might require advance booking and planning, admiring the impressive architecture from the outside is worthwhile.

Located on the 53rd floor of the Mori Tower, this contemporary art museum frequently hosts international exhibitions. The views from its location are also spectacular.

• The admission ticket often includes access to the Tokyo City View observation deck.
• Exhibitions change regularly, check their website for current shows.

An observation deck within the Mori Tower offering stunning panoramic views of Tokyo, including Tokyo Tower. On clear days, Mount Fuji is visible.

• Consider visiting closer to sunset for a magical transition from day to night.
• The open-air sky deck (weather permitting) provides an even more immersive experience.

A striking architectural landmark that hosts rotating special exhibitions. It has no permanent collection, focusing instead on curated thematic shows.

• Check the schedule in advance as exhibition themes vary widely.
• The building's design itself is a major draw.

A large urban development complex featuring shops, restaurants, cinemas, and entertainment venues. It's a popular spot for dining and experiencing Tokyo's nightlife.

• Many restaurants offer excellent city views.
• The area is known for its diverse international dining options.

The world-famous center for anime, manga, gaming, and electronics. Explore multi-story buildings filled with arcades, specialty shops, and electronics retailers.

• Don't miss the chance to visit a themed cafe, like a maid cafe or an animal cafe.
• Look for multi-story buildings like Yodobashi Camera or Mandarake for a wide variety of goods.

An entire hall dedicated to 'gachapon' capsule toy vending machines. Find unique and quirky trinkets from anime characters to miniature household items.

• Have plenty of small yen coins ready.
• You might find rare or limited-edition gachapon here.

A historic shrine that has adapted to the modern age, often associated with technology and anime culture. You can find charms for IT security and business success.

• Look for the ema (votive tablets) with anime designs.
• It's a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Akihabara.

Explore the numerous small izakayas (Japanese pubs) scattered around Akihabara. Enjoy local drinks and small dishes in a casual, lively atmosphere.

• Try different types of sake or shochu.
• Many izakayas have English menus, but some might not.

A comprehensive pass covering most transportation within Hakone, including trains, buses, cable cars, ropeways, and pirate ships on Lake Ashi. It's the most convenient way to explore the region.

• Purchase this pass at Shinjuku Station before departing.
• It includes round-trip transportation from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto.

A unique museum set against the stunning backdrop of the Hakone mountains, featuring a vast collection of contemporary sculptures. It allows visitors to enjoy art in nature.

• Allow ample time to wander through the extensive grounds.
• The museum offers beautiful photo opportunities.

A scenic cruise across the caldera lake, offering views of Mount Fuji (weather permitting) and the iconic red torii gate of Hakone Shrine in the water. The 'pirate ships' add a whimsical touch.

• Sit on the open deck for the best views.
• The cruise is covered by the Hakone Freepass.

A volcanic valley with active sulfur vents and hot springs, famous for its black eggs boiled in the hot springs, said to prolong life. The views of the surrounding mountains are dramatic.

• Be aware of any volcanic gas warnings, which may affect access.
• Try the local specialty black eggs.

A charming, old-fashioned shopping street that retains a nostalgic atmosphere from Tokyo's past. It's lined with small shops selling traditional crafts, snacks, and daily necessities.

• Try some of the local street food, like menchi-katsu (fried minced meat cutlet).
• This area offers a glimpse into everyday Tokyo life away from the major tourist hubs.

A vast and peaceful cemetery, offering a tranquil green space and a chance to see historical gravesites, including that of the last Tokugawa shogun. Cherry blossoms bloom beautifully here in spring.

• It's a surprisingly serene and beautiful place for a stroll.
• Keep noise levels respectful.

A museum housing a collection of pre-modern Japanese and East Asian art, renowned for its exquisite traditional Japanese garden. The architecture itself is a masterpiece.

• The garden is particularly stunning, especially during autumn.
• The museum's cafe offers a lovely setting for a break.

Experience the local dining scene by finding a cozy izakaya in the quieter Nezu or Yanaka neighborhoods. Enjoy authentic Japanese dishes and drinks in a relaxed, neighborhood setting.

• Look for places frequented by locals.
• Don't be afraid to try dishes you don't recognize.

While the famous tuna auction has moved to Toyosu, the inner market area of Tsukiji still buzzes with wholesale food vendors, seafood suppliers, and culinary shops. It's an energetic glimpse into Tokyo's food trade.

• Arrive early to see the most activity.
• Sample fresh seafood directly from vendors.

Participate in a hands-on Japanese cooking class to learn the art of making sushi or ramen. It's a fun and delicious way to immerse yourself in local culinary culture.

• Book well in advance, as popular classes fill up quickly.
• Many classes offer English instruction.

A man-made island in Tokyo Bay offering futuristic architecture, entertainment venues, and scenic waterfront views. It's a popular spot for recreation and sightseeing.

• Enjoy views of the Rainbow Bridge and the Tokyo skyline.
• Visit the giant Gundam statue outside DiverCity Tokyo Plaza.

Immersive digital art museums that offer interactive and breathtaking experiences. Explore a world of light, sound, and color that blurs the lines between art and viewer.

• Book tickets online well in advance, as they often sell out.
• Wear comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting wet (for Planets).

Depending on your flight schedule, grab any last-minute gifts or mementos from shops near your accommodation or at the airport.

A major transportation hub for Shinkansen (bullet trains) and local lines. It's also a destination in itself with shopping and dining options.

• Allow ample time to navigate the station.
• Consider trying the diverse food options within the station.

Depart from Tokyo. Ensure you arrive at the airport with sufficient time for check-in and security.

• Confirm which airport your flight departs from.
• Airport amenities include duty-free shopping and dining.