Tokyo a week

Tokyo's primary international gateway. Offers various transport options to the city center, including the Narita Express train and Limousine Bus.

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

A large, beautiful park featuring three distinct garden styles: English Landscape, French Formal, and Japanese Traditional. It's a serene escape from the city bustle.

• Check the weather; it's best enjoyed on a clear day.
• Picnics are allowed in designated areas.

A narrow alleyway filled with tiny yakitori restaurants and bars, evoking a nostalgic post-war atmosphere. It's a great spot for an authentic, casual dinner.

• Embrace the small, intimate seating – you might be sharing tables.
• Try the assorted yakitori skewers.

Offers free panoramic views of Tokyo from its observation decks. On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji.

• The west observation deck is often less crowded.
• Go just before sunset for day and night views.

A peaceful oasis dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The walk through the forested grounds leading to the main shrine is a tranquil experience.

• Visit early to avoid crowds.
• Observe the purification ritual at the temizuya before approaching the main hall.

The heart of Harajuku's youth culture, famous for its colorful street style, quirky shops, crepe stands, and trendy boutiques. It's a sensory overload in the best way.

• Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.
• Try a Harajuku crepe – a quintessential experience.

The world's busiest intersection, where hundreds of pedestrians cross from all directions simultaneously. Best viewed from above at the Shibuya Sky observation deck or a nearby cafe.

• For a great view, head to the Starbucks overlooking the crossing.
• Consider booking Shibuya Sky for a higher, more comprehensive vista.

A fun and affordable conveyor belt sushi restaurant where you order via a tablet and your sushi arrives on a mini bullet train track. It's a lively and efficient dining experience.

• The ordering system is intuitive, but ask staff if unsure.
• Try a variety of rolls and nigiri.

Tokyo's oldest temple, with a vibrant Nakamise-dori market leading up to the main hall. It's a significant cultural and spiritual site.

• Try some traditional snacks from the Nakamise-dori stalls.
• Be mindful of the crowds, especially during peak hours.

A unique street dedicated to kitchenware and restaurant supplies. You can find everything from realistic plastic food samples to professional knives and ceramics.

• Great for unique souvenirs like realistic food keychains.
• Many shops offer tax-free shopping for tourists.

Japan's oldest and largest museum, housing an extensive collection of Japanese art and artifacts, including samurai swords, ceramics, and Buddhist sculptures.

• Focus on specific galleries if time is limited.
• The Honkan (Japanese Gallery) is a must-see.

A bustling market street under the train tracks near Ueno Station, selling everything from fresh seafood and produce to clothing and cosmetics. It has a lively, down-to-earth atmosphere.

• Great for street food and bargain hunting.
• Be prepared for a crowded environment.

The former site of Edo Castle and now a public park, offering glimpses of the old castle foundations and moats. It's a historical and serene space.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
• The Ote-mon Gate is a popular entrance.

A vibrant market offering fresh seafood, produce, kitchenware, and street food. While the inner wholesale market has moved, the outer market remains a culinary paradise.

• Go for breakfast or lunch – many stalls offer delicious prepared foods.
• Sample various street foods like tamagoyaki (rolled omelet) and grilled scallops.

Tokyo's premier upscale shopping district, known for its flagship department stores, designer boutiques, art galleries, and sophisticated dining. A great place for window shopping and soaking in the luxury.

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

A highly popular ramen shop renowned for its creamy chicken broth (tori paitan) ramen. Expect a queue, but the rich and flavorful soup is worth the wait.

• Arrive before opening to minimize wait time.
• The signature 'Yuzu Shio' ramen is a popular choice.

A whimsical museum dedicated to the works of Studio Ghibli. It's a magical experience for fans, featuring exhibits, a short film, and unique architecture.

• Tickets MUST be purchased in advance, often months ahead, through the official Lawson ticket website.
• Allow ample travel time to Mitaka.

A trendy, bohemian neighborhood known for its vintage clothing stores, independent boutiques, quirky cafes, and live music venues. It has a relaxed, youthful vibe.

• Explore the narrow side streets for hidden gems.
• Great place to find unique fashion items and accessories.

An open-air observation deck atop the Shibuya Scramble Square building, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Tokyo, including the famous Shibuya Crossing from above.

• Book tickets online in advance for a specific time slot.
• The best time to visit is around sunset for stunning cityscapes.

A convenient travel pass covering various modes of transport in the Hakone region, including trains, buses, cable cars, ropeways, and pirate ships on Lake Ashi. It simplifies navigating the area.

• Purchase at Odakyu Sightseeing Service Center in Shinjuku.
• Allows unlimited rides on designated transport within the 2-day validity period.

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

• Allow plenty of time to explore the expansive grounds.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.

Enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Ashi on a replica pirate ship. Offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and, on clear days, Mount Fuji.

• Sit on the side facing Mount Fuji 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 smell of sulfur is strong; if you have respiratory issues, consider skipping.
• Try the black eggs for a unique culinary experience.

A return visit to the vibrant market for any last-minute culinary souvenirs or a delicious sushi breakfast. It's a great place to soak in the local atmosphere one last time.

• Try different stalls for breakfast options.
• Look for packaged Japanese snacks and seasonings as souvenirs.

A beautiful landscape garden with a tidal pond and a teahouse on an island. It offers a serene contrast to the surrounding skyscrapers.

• Enjoy matcha tea at the teahouse for a traditional experience.
• The garden is accessible via a water bus from Asakusa or Odaiba.

Tokyo's primary international gateway. Ensure ample time for check-in and security procedures before your departure.

• Allow at least 3 hours before your flight.
• Consider purchasing last-minute souvenirs at the airport shops.