Going to Japan was at the top of my bucket list since I was a child when three college students from Japan stayed with our family for a week, while on an exchange program. They were the kindest, sweetest women. They arrived bearing gifts of origami paper and children’s games, made us an authentic Japanese dinner and taught me how to write Japanese characters with ink.
Shortly thereafter, I read the book “Sadako and the Thousand Cranes” and went on to attempt to make 1000 paper cranes myself. I even did an origami workshop at my middle school. So when the opportunity to visit this amazing country presented itself in 2023, we jumped at the chance and it was an absolutely incredible experience.
We started our trip in Tokyo and here is our three day itinerary which offers a blend of tradition, culture, and modernity. It was a great way to get a feel for this amazing country. This detailed itinerary provides insights into each destination, including operating hours, admission fees, and the reasons you’ll want to visit.
Day 1: Exploring Sumida’s Cultural Treasures
There’s no other way to say it – after flying half-way around the world we were tired on Day 1, plus we arrived in the morning, so we only had a few hours to explore. As a result we kept our itinerary this day to a minimum.
Sumo Stalls
If you’re in Tokyo when the Sumo wrestlers are practicing, you can book a tour to visit the Sumo Stalls and watch them practice. And if you’re lucky enough to be there during a tournament, you can book tickets to attend. Unfortunately when we were in Tokyo, there was a tournament in Osaka, so we were unable to visit the stalls. If this happens when you are in town, you can still go to Ryogoku, the neighborhood for Sumo wrestling.
Sumo Museum
The Sumo Museum, located within the Ryogoku Kokugikan (Sumo Hall), offers a glimpse into the history of sumo wrestling, showcasing photographs of past yokozuna (grand champions) and ukiyo-e prints of earlier wrestlers. Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural experience.
Japanese Sword Museum
A short walk away, the Japanese Sword Museum houses an impressive collection of Japanese swords, armor, and related artifacts. It’s a must-visit for enthusiasts of samurai history and craftsmanship.
- Hours: Typically open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday) and during the year-end holidays.
- Admission: Adults: ¥1,000; Students: ¥500; Free for children under 15 and persons with disabilities (plus one accompanying person).
Yokoamicho Park
This serene park serves as a memorial for the victims of the Great Kanto Earthquake and the Tokyo air raids during World War II. The tranquil environment offers a place for reflection amidst the bustling city.
- Hours: Open 24 hours.
- Admission: Free.
Sumida Hokusai Museum
Dedicated to the renowned ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai, the Sumida Hokusai Museum displays a vast collection of his works, including the iconic “The Great Wave off Kanagawa.” Art lovers will appreciate the depth of Hokusai’s influence on Japanese art.
- Hours: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM). Closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday) and from December 29 to January 1.
- Admission: Permanent Exhibition: ¥400; Special Exhibitions: Fees vary.
Day 2: From Imperial Majesty to Asakusa’s Historic Charm
Day 2 in Tokyo blends imperial elegance with vibrant cultural experiences, starting with a peaceful stroll through the Imperial Palace East Gardens before indulging in delicious ramen and exploring the Pokémon Center at Tokyo Station. The afternoon takes you through Asakusa’s historic streets, where you’ll visit Senso-ji Temple, collect a goshuin, and end the day with breathtaking city views from Tokyo Skytree.
Imperial Palace East Gardens
Start your day with a visit to the meticulously maintained Imperial Palace East Gardens, which are part of the Imperial Palace grounds. The gardens are open to the public and free to enter, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of Tokyo.
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (entry until 4:00 PM). Closed on Mondays, Fridays, and during the year-end holidays.
- Admission: Free.
Tokyo Ramen Street and Pokémon Center
Located in the First Avenue Tokyo Station, Tokyo Ramen Street features renowned ramen shops, making it an ideal spot for lunch. Nearby, the Pokémon Center offers a delightful experience for fans, with exclusive merchandise and interactive displays perfect for kids or anyone who loves Pokémon!
- Hours: Ramen Street: Typically 10:30 AM to 11:00 PM; Pokémon Center: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM.
- Admission: Free to enter; pay for purchases and meals.
Train to Asakusa
From the Pokémon Center it’s a short walk to the Nihombashi Station. From there you can take the subway 15 minutes to Asakusa Station and experience a different side of town.
Kaminarimon Gate
This iconic gate, with its massive red lantern, serves as the entrance to Senso-ji Temple and is a popular photo spot.
- Hours: Open 24 hours.
- Admission: Free.
Nakamise-dori Street
A bustling shopping street leading up to Senso-ji, lined with stalls selling traditional snacks, souvenirs, and crafts.
- Hours: Typically 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Admission: Free to browse; pay for purchases.
Senso-ji Temple
Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji is a significant cultural landmark. Visitors can participate in traditional rituals and admire the temple’s stunning architecture. While you’re there, purchase a goshuincho, a temple stamp book you can use throughout you time in Japan, or just purchase a stamp as a special keepsake of your visit. Goshuincho are approximately ¥1,000 and the stamp is ¥300. We framed our stamps when we got home to serve as a special reminder of our time there.
- Hours: Main hall: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM (from 6:30 AM from October to March).
- Admission: Free.
Tokyo Skytree
Conclude the day by visiting Tokyo Skytree, one of the world’s tallest towers. The observation decks offer panoramic views of the city, especially breathtaking at sunset.
- Hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM (last admission at 9:00 PM).
- Admission: Tembo Deck (350m): ¥2,100; Tembo Galleria (450m): Additional ¥1,000.
Day 3: Modern Marvels and Traditional Elegance
Day 3 in Tokyo is a perfect mix of modern excitement and cultural charm, starting in Akihabara Electric Town before heading to Shinjuku for a nostalgic bite in Omoide Yokocho, city views from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, and a peaceful stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen. The adventure continues in Harajuku with trendy Takeshita Street and the serene Meiji Shrine, then wraps up in Shibuya, where you’ll witness the famous Shibuya Crossing, pay tribute to Hachiko, and enjoy stunning city views from the rooftop of Shibuya 109-2.
Akihabara Electric Town
Begin your day in Akihabara, Tokyo’s hub for electronics, anime, and manga. Explore numerous shops offering the latest gadgets, collectibles, and themed cafés. Our teens absolutely loved wandering through the stores and looking for all of their favorite anime and manga characters. If you arrive early, don’t be surprised to see people queuing up at the door with lines around the building. This is especially true if your visit happens to coincide with a product launch date like ours did. Don’t worry though – once the doors open, everyone gets inside right away.
- Hours: Vary by store; generally 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Train to Shinjuku
When you’re done shopping in Akihabara, check out all of the light up billboards on your way back to the station, where you’ll catch a quick 10-minute subway to Shinjuku.
Omoide Yokocho
Begin your time in Shinjuku at Omoide Yokocho, also known as “Memory Lane.” This narrow alleyway is lined with small eateries serving traditional Japanese dishes like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and kushiyaki (grilled skewers). The nostalgic atmosphere, reminiscent of post-war Tokyo, offers an authentic dining experience.
- Hours: Individual shop hours vary, but many are open from late morning until late at night.
- Admission: Free to enter; meal prices vary by establishment.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Decks
A short walk from Omoide Yokocho, visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building’s observation decks for panoramic views of the city. There are local English speaking guides inside to help you make out what you’re seeing out the floor to ceiling windows. Don’t be surprised to hear music while you’re there. The day we went there was a line of people waiting for a chance to play the piano in the middle of the room.
- Hours: South Observatory: 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM (last admission at 9:30 PM); North Observatory: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (last admission at 5:00 PM). Note that the North Observatory is typically open during the day, while the South Observatory offers extended evening hours.
- Admission: Free.
Godzilla Head
Located just a short walk from the observation tower and atop the Shinjuku Toho Building, the Godzilla Head is a tribute to the iconic movie monster. The 12-meter-tall head peers over the building, occasionally roaring and emitting lights, making it a fun photo opportunity.
- Hours: Visible from the street 24 hours a day; the roaring and light effects occur at scheduled times between 12:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
- Admission: Free to view from the street.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
If you have time, visit Shinjuku Gyoen, one of Tokyo’s largest and most beautiful gardens, blending traditional Japanese, English, and French landscaping styles. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll amidst seasonal flora.
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (gates close at 4:30 PM).
- Admission: Adults: ¥500; Students (high school and university) and seniors (65+): ¥250; Children (junior high school and younger): Free.
Takeshita Street, Harajuku
Walk or train to Harajuku, renowned for its vibrant youth culture and eclectic fashion scene and visit Takeshita Street, a bustling pedestrian street lined with trendy boutiques, quirky shops, and eateries. It’s the epicenter of teenage culture in Tokyo. Picture colored cotton candy that’s bigger than your head!
- Hours: Shops generally open from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Admission: Free to explore; shopping and dining costs vary.
Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu)
Adjacent to Harajuku, Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Nestled within a lush forest, it offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle and a cool reprieve from a hot day. This was our favorite spot in Tokyo. If you bought a goshuincho already, use it here for another stamp – or just buy the stamp.
- Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset. Specific times vary by month; for example, in February, it’s open from 6:20 AM to 4:50 PM.
- Admission: Free.
Shibuya Crossing
Proceed to Shibuya to experience the famed Shibuya Crossing, often hailed as the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection. Witnessing the organized chaos of people crossing from all directions is a quintessential Tokyo experience. I highly recommend crossing a few times just to get the feel of it. The most amazing thing we noticed – even though it’s super crowded, no one ever bumped into us!
- Hours: Accessible 24 hours.
- Admission: Free.
Ten Yen Pancake
Located on the first floor of the Mega Don Quijote store in Shibuya, you can purchase this delicious treat for ¥500. The waffle is made of pancake batter with mozzarella cheese inside, giving it a crispy outside and stretchy melted mozzarella cheese on the inside.
Hachiko Statue
Near Shibuya Station, find the statue of Hachiko, the loyal Akita dog celebrated for his unwavering devotion. Hachikō waited at Tokyo’s Shibuya train station every day for his owner. When the professor died at work, the dog never stopped waiting for him, returning to the station every day for nearly a decade in hopes his master would return. It’s a popular meeting spot and a symbol of loyalty.
- Hours: Accessible 24 hours.
- Admission: Free.
MAGNET by SHIBUYA109 Rooftop
Conclude your day by visiting the rooftop of MAGNET by SHIBUYA109, which offers a vantage point overlooking Shibuya Crossing.
- Hours: Typically open from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
- Admission: ¥1,800, which includes one drink.
In just three days, Tokyo offers an incredible mix of history, culture, and modern excitement, taking you from sumo traditions and samurai swords to futuristic cityscapes and anime hubs. You’ll explore serene gardens, iconic shrines, and bustling shopping streets, all while indulging in delicious Japanese cuisine along the way. Whether you’re admiring the skyline from Tokyo Skytree, navigating the electric chaos of Akihabara, or crossing the famous streets of Shibuya, each moment is a unique glimpse into the city’s dynamic spirit. While three days is just enough to scratch the surface, Tokyo’s endless energy and diverse attractions will leave you eager to return.
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