Tokyo 2 weeks

Tokyo's primary international gateway. Upon arrival, you'll find efficient transport links to the city center.

• Purchase a Suica or Pasmo card for easy travel on public transport.

A fast and comfortable train service connecting Narita Airport to Ueno Station in central Tokyo. It's a convenient way to begin your city exploration.

• Consider booking tickets online in advance for potential discounts.

A beautiful and expansive garden featuring three distinct styles: English Landscape, French Formal, and Japanese Traditional. It's a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

• Check the opening hours as they vary seasonally.

A narrow alleyway filled with tiny, atmospheric yakitori restaurants and bars. It offers a nostalgic glimpse into Tokyo's past.

• Be prepared for close quarters; it's part of the charm.

A peaceful oasis dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The serene forest surrounding the shrine provides a stark contrast to the nearby urban bustle.

• Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility.

The epicenter of Tokyo's youth culture and quirky fashion. This vibrant street is packed with unique boutiques, crepe stands, and colorful street art.

• Try a Harajuku crepe for a quintessential experience.

An observation deck offering breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo, including the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing. It provides a unique perspective of the city's vastness.

• Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot.

The world's busiest intersection, where hundreds of people cross from all directions simultaneously. It's a mesmerizing spectacle, especially at night.

• Watch the crossing from the Starbucks overlooking it for a classic view.

Tokyo's oldest temple, with a vibrant approach through Nakamise-dori market. The temple grounds offer a glimpse into traditional Japanese Buddhist practices.

• Try some of the traditional snacks sold along Nakamise-dori.

A bustling market street leading to Senso-ji Temple, lined with stalls selling traditional crafts, souvenirs, and local snacks. It's a great place to find unique gifts.

• Look for handmade crafts like fans and kimonos.

A scenic boat trip along the Sumida River, offering views of Tokyo's skyline, bridges, and landmarks like the Tokyo Skytree. It provides a different perspective of the city.

• Consider taking the cruise towards Odaiba for a longer journey.

A street dedicated to monjayaki, a savory pancake dish similar to okonomiyaki but with a runnier batter. It's a fun, interactive dining experience.

• Many restaurants offer English menus and staff to help guide you.

The former site of Edo Castle and now a public park. It offers historical ruins, beautiful gardens, and a glimpse into Japan's imperial past.

• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.

A beautifully restored historic railway station with impressive red-brick architecture. It's a major hub and a destination in itself, with shops and restaurants.

• Explore Character Street for unique Japanese merchandise.

Tokyo's premier upscale shopping district, known for its flagship department stores, luxury boutiques, art galleries, and fine dining. Even window shopping is an experience.

• On weekend afternoons, the main street (Chuo Dori) becomes a pedestrian paradise.

The principal theater for traditional Kabuki performances. While attending a full show can be lengthy, you can often purchase single-act tickets for a taste of this dramatic art form.

• Check the schedule and availability for single-act tickets (makumi).

Japan's largest museum, housing an extensive collection of art and artifacts from Japan and other Asian countries. It offers a deep dive into Japanese history and culture.

• Focus on specific galleries if time is limited, such as the Honkan (Japanese Gallery).

A large public park home to several museums, a zoo, and shrines. It's a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring and a cultural hub year-round.

• Enjoy a leisurely stroll and soak in the atmosphere.

A bustling street market under the railway tracks near Ueno Station. It offers a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce and seafood to clothing and cosmetics, with a lively, down-to-earth atmosphere.

• Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.

A charming, old-fashioned shopping street that retains a nostalgic atmosphere. It's a great place to experience local life and find traditional sweets and crafts.

• Try 'menchi katsu' (deep-fried minced meat cutlet) from a local butcher.

A vibrant marketplace selling fresh seafood, produce, kitchenware, and more. While the inner wholesale market has moved, the outer market remains a foodie paradise.

• Arrive early for the freshest selection and breakfast sushi.

A beautiful landscape garden that was once a feudal lord's villa and a falconry ground. It features a teahouse on an island and seawater ponds that change level with the tides.

• Enjoy matcha tea at the teahouse for a traditional experience.

A man-made island in Tokyo Bay known for its futuristic architecture, entertainment complexes, museums, and shopping malls. It offers great views of the Rainbow Bridge.

• Take a ride on the Daikanransha (Giant Sky Wheel) for city views.

Immersive digital art museums that offer a unique, interactive experience. These are highly popular and require pre-booking.

• Book tickets well in advance, as they sell out quickly.

A whimsical museum dedicated to the art and animation of Studio Ghibli. It's a must-visit for fans of films like My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away.

• Tickets are notoriously difficult to obtain and must be purchased months in advance, typically through Lawson.

A beautiful park adjacent to the Ghibli Museum, featuring a large pond, a small zoo, and walking paths. It's a popular spot for relaxation and boating.

• Rent a swan boat on the pond for a fun activity.

A trendy neighborhood known for its relaxed atmosphere, stylish shops, cafes, and restaurants. It offers a more local and less crowded shopping experience than central Tokyo.

• Explore the Sunroad shopping arcade for a mix of local and chain stores.

A narrow network of alleys near Kichijoji Station filled with tiny, atmospheric bars and eateries. It's a great place for a drink and to experience local nightlife.

• Be open to trying different small dishes and drinks.

A comprehensive pass that covers most transportation within the Hakone region, including trains, buses, cable cars, ropeways, and pirate ships. It's essential for exploring Hakone efficiently.

• Purchase this pass at Odakyu stations in Shinjuku or Odawara.

A comfortable limited express train service from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto. It offers reserved seating and a scenic journey into the mountains.

• Consider booking seats with a view of Mt. Fuji on clear days.

An expansive outdoor sculpture park set against the stunning backdrop of the Hakone mountains. It features works by renowned artists like Picasso and Henry Moore.

• Allow ample time to wander and appreciate the art in its natural setting.

A scenic ropeway ride offering views of volcanic hot springs at Owakudani and, on clear days, Mount Fuji. You can try the famous black eggs boiled in the hot springs.

• Owakudani may be closed due to volcanic activity; check conditions beforehand.

A cruise across the picturesque Lake Ashi on a replica pirate ship. It offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the iconic Hakone Shrine torii gate.

• The pirate ship offers a fun, albeit touristy, experience.

A bohemian neighborhood known for its vintage clothing stores, independent boutiques, quirky cafes, and live music venues. It's a hub for Tokyo's creative youth.

• Wander through the narrow streets to discover hidden gems.

Numerous independent cafes offer unique atmospheres and delicious coffee and light meals. They are perfect for a mid-shopping break.

• Look for cafes specializing in pour-over coffee.

Shimokitazawa boasts numerous independent bookstores and record shops selling used and rare items. It's a treasure trove for collectors.

• Explore shops like Shimokita Records or local used book stores.

Shimokitazawa offers a diverse range of small, often family-run restaurants serving everything from ramen to international cuisine. Many have a cozy and intimate setting.

• Try a restaurant specializing in curry or izakaya fare.

The world-famous district for electronics, anime, manga, and gaming culture. It's a vibrant and energetic area with multi-story department stores and specialty shops.

• Visit a multi-story electronics store like Yodobashi Camera or Bic Camera.

Akihabara is famous for its unique themed cafes, including maid cafes, where staff in costume serve guests. It's a distinctive part of the area's subculture.

• Be aware of cover charges and time limits.

An ancient and colorful shrine located near Akihabara. It's known for blessing technology and business, making it popular among tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs.

• Look for the amulets (omamori) designed for electronic devices.

The Kanda area, particularly near the station, has numerous traditional izakayas (Japanese pubs) offering a wide selection of drinks and small dishes. It's a great way to experience local evening culture.

• Try local sake or shochu.

A comfortable train service from Asakusa Station to Tobu Nikko Station. It's the most direct and convenient way to reach Nikko from central Tokyo.

• Consider purchasing the Nikko Pass for unlimited travel within the Nikko area.

The lavishly decorated mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Its intricate carvings, including the famous 'see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil' monkeys, are stunning.

• Allow plenty of time to admire the detailed architecture and symbolism.

A beautiful mountain lake formed by volcanic activity, and the stunning Kegon Falls, one of Japan's most celebrated waterfalls. The scenery is particularly vibrant in autumn.

• Take the elevator down to the base of Kegon Falls for a closer view.

Enjoy local specialties like Yuba (tofu skin) dishes or soba noodles at one of the many restaurants near the station or shrine area.

• Look for restaurants serving 'Yuba-don' (Yuba over rice).

A direct train line from Tokyo/Shinjuku stations to Kamakura Station. It's a convenient and efficient way to reach the coastal city.

• Consider taking the Shonan-Shinjuku Line for a slightly faster journey.

Home to the iconic Great Buddha of Kamakura, a massive outdoor bronze statue of Amida Buddha. It's one of Japan's most recognizable landmarks.

• You can pay extra to go inside the statue.

A beautiful Buddhist temple known for its eleven-headed Kannon statue and stunning views of the coastline. The grounds are filled with flowers and smaller shrines.

• Enjoy the panoramic ocean views from the main hall.

The main beach of Kamakura, popular for swimming in the summer and strolling along the coast year-round. It offers a refreshing seaside experience.

• Rent a beach umbrella and chairs during warmer months.

Kamakura's main shopping street, lined with souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's a lively place to pick up local crafts and snacks before heading back.

• Try some local snacks like 'agemanju' (deep-fried steamed buns).

One of the world's tallest towers, offering spectacular 360-degree views of Tokyo and beyond from its observation decks. It's a modern icon of the city.

• Book tickets online to avoid long queues, especially for Tembo Deck.

Located at the base of Tokyo Skytree, this modern aquarium features impressive tanks, including a large 'Tokyo Big Shoal' tank and an open-air octopus exhibit.

• Check feeding times for certain animals for a more engaging visit.

A large shopping and entertainment complex at the base of Tokyo Skytree, offering a wide range of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It's convenient for souvenirs and dining.

• Explore the specialty floors like the 'Tokyo Soramachi' for local goods.

The Oshiage area surrounding Tokyo Skytree offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, providing a chance to relax after a day of sightseeing.

• Look for restaurants with views of the illuminated Skytree.

Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping at a department store or a shop near your accommodation.

• Department store basements (depachika) often have beautifully packaged food items perfect for gifts.

A comfortable and direct train service from major Tokyo stations to Narita International Airport. It's a reliable option for airport transfers.

• Book your tickets in advance to ensure a seat, especially during peak travel times.

Tokyo's primary international gateway. Allow ample time for check-in, security, and any last-minute duty-free shopping before your departure.

• Utilize the airport's free Wi-Fi and charging stations.