Tokyo is the administrative center of Japan and was originally known as Edo. After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the capital was moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. Over the course of several centuries, Tokyo has transformed into a modern metropolis, offering endless choices for shopping, entertainment, culture, and dining.
The city is home to many unique districts, including the bustling shopping district of Shinjuku, the vibrant youth culture hub of Shibuya and Harajuku, the historically rich Asakusa, and the Chiyoda ward where the former Edo Castle once stood. Now, let's take a look at the classic 7-day itinerary for your trip to Tokyo!
Suggested Itinerary
Tokyo is home to numerous theme parks and unique attractions, such as Disneyland, DisneySea and Warner Bros Studio Tour. Depending on individual interests, itineraries can vary greatly. Generally, first-time visitors can allocate around 3-4 days in the Tokyo city area and then spend another 3-4 days exploring surrounding areas like Yokohama, Kamakura, Lake Kawaguchi, Hakone, and Karuizawa.
DAY 1 | Narita/Haneda Airport → Ueno |
DAY 2 | Ueno → Asakusa → Skytree → Ueno |
DAY 3 | Ueno → Yokohama (Yamate / Red Brick Warehouse / Chinatown) → Ueno |
DAY 4 | Ueno → Lake Kawaguchi (Tenjoyama / Oishi Park / Saiko Healing Village) |
DAY 5 | Lake Kawaguchi (Sky Torii / Sengen Shrine / Oshino Hakkai) → Shinjuku |
DAY 6 | Shinjuku → Kamakura (Enoden train / Komachi Street) → Shibuya/Harajuku |
DAY 7 | Shinjuku Shopping → Narita/Haneda Airport |
If you have more time, you can also visit the Gotemba Premium Outlets, located about 1 hour away from Lake Kawaguchi, and then spend a night in the nearby Hakone hot spring area.
➢ Related Articles:
Tokyo Onsen: 15 BEST Hotels to stay for a relaxing natural hot spring bath!
Where to stay in Tokyo?
Tokyo has an excellent transportation system, and it's particularly easy to get around when staying near JR Yamanote Line or subway stations. Stay near Shinjuku, Ueno, or Tokyo Station if you plan to explore nearby cities often. These areas offer convenient access to direct rail connections for seamless travel to other cities and airports.
Shinjuku ✓ transport hub / shopping area
Hotel Amanek Shinjuku Kabukicho
Ueno ✓ transport hub / shopping area
JR Yamanote Line ✓ easy to get around
➢ Related articles:
10 BEST Tokyo New Hotels near JR train stations & shopping area!