How to Spend 3 Days in Tokyo: First Timers Itinerary

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Cramming as much as you can into just 3 days in Tokyo can be a little overwhelming at first— but trust me, it’s doable! Since we arrived here after our 3 days in Seoul, we finally got the hang of using public transportation (and thank goodness Apple and Google Maps work here!). Navigating the city felt way easier.

Three days in Tokyo is just enough to get a taste of this incredible city, but I have to admit, I wish I had more time! Our 2-week Japan trip was packed to the brim, and we had to squeeze in so much while also accounting for travel days. And, let’s not forget, we visited during the rainy season in the summer, so a few of our plans got a little drenched. But, that’s all part of the adventure, right?

So what can you expect from your visit to Tokyo? It’s truly a city like no other—blending the ultramodern with the traditional in the most fascinating way. From towering skyscrapers to serene temples, and bustling streets to quiet gardens, there’s so much to explore!

Fun fact: did you know Tokyo is home to more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world? That’s just a little taste of how special this place is. I knew going into this trip that there was no way I could see it all, and honestly, I’m already planning my next visit! I’m sure you’ll feel the same once you start exploring this vibrant, captivating city.

3 days in Tokyo itinerary

Day 1

Morning: teamLab Borderless + coffee

teamLab Borderless

Your first stop in Tokyo is the mind-bending digital art museum, teamLab Borderless. This immersive experience is one of the most popular attractions in Tokyo, and for good reason! Imagine walking through a space where the boundaries between art, technology, and imagination completely dissolve—rooms filled with interactive light displays, floating lamps, and mesmerizing visuals that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world.

Borderless vs. Planets

Now, you’ll have to decide between teamLab Borderless and its sister museum, teamLab Planets. While Borderless offers a more expansive, ever-changing space with no set path, Planets is a bit more focused, with a handful of large-scale installations that you actually walk through or even wade through (yes, some parts involve water!). If you’re after a more immersive, physical experience, Planets might be for you. But if you want to lose yourself in an endless maze of art, Borderless is the way to go.

💡 Insider Tip: Both museums are insanely popular, so you’ll want to book your tickets well in advance—especially if you’re aiming for those early morning slots before the crowds hit. We snagged the 10 am slot about a month ahead, which gave us a little breathing room to explore before it got too packed (9 am is the earliest slot).

Coffee at % Arabica

After immersing yourself in digital wonder at teamLab, you might be in dire need of a coffee fix—especially if you woke up late like we did and had to rush to make your morning slot. Luckily, you don’t have to venture far. % Arabica is a super popular coffee shop in Tokyo, known for its minimalist aesthetic and perfectly brewed coffee. The best part? It’s conveniently located in Azabudai Hills, the very same building as teamLab Borderless.

Afternoon + evening: Tsukiji Fish Market, Tokyo Tower, + karaoke

Tsukiji Fish Market

Once you’re caffeinated and ready to go, head over to the Tsukiji Fish Market, one of the best things to do in Tokyo! This legendary market was once the world’s largest wholesale fish market, and while the inner market has moved to Toyosu, the outer market remains a bustling hub of fresh seafood, street food, and culinary delicacies.

The market is only open until 2 pm, so time is of the essence. I recommend setting aside about two hours to fully explore and, most importantly, eat your way through the market. We spent around an hour and a half at teamLab (with our 10 am slot) and arrived at Tsukiji just in time for an epic food adventure.

💡 Insider Tip: As the market gets closer to closing time, you can often score great deals on seafood, with many items going on sale about an hour before they shut down!

Here’s a little taste of what we tried:

• Wagyu and Kobe Beef: The melt-in-your-mouth perfection of these beef skewers is unmatched.
• Tuna: Whether it’s sushi or sashimi, the tuna here is incredibly fresh and flavorful.
• Tanghulu: A sweet treat that won me over—candied fruit on a stick, crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
• Ichigo daifuku or strawberry mochi: A popular choice, though I found it wasn’t really my thing, but you might love it!

💡 Insider Tip: Tsukiji is not just about the fish. The market is full of other goodies like tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet), grilled scallops, and even some surprising international treats. If you’re visiting with a group, it’s the perfect spot to share and sample a variety of foods. If you aren’t traveling with a group, you might enjoy this food tour through the market with a local guide that includes lunch and multiple samples.

Zojo-ji Temple

Zojo-ji Temple is a stunning Buddhist temple located right next to Tokyo Tower, offering a beautiful contrast between traditional and modern Tokyo. The temple dates back to the 14th century and serves as the main temple of the Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism.

It’s a peaceful place where you can take a moment to reflect, and the sight of the temple with Tokyo Tower rising behind it makes for a perfect photo opp! The temple grounds also feature a touching memorial area dedicated to unborn children, marked by rows of small statues adorned with colorful clothing and pinwheels. It’s a serene and historically rich stop before heading to the iconic Tokyo Tower.

Tokyo Tower

After filling up on all that incredible market food, it’s time to make your way to the iconic Tokyo Tower. This red and white structure is reminiscent of the Eiffel Tower but with its own unique Tokyo flair. Standing at nearly 1100 feet (333 meters) tall, it offers some of the best panoramic views of the city.

Unfortunately, when we visited, the rain decided to pour down, making it impossible to enjoy the tower’s observation decks. But hopefully, the weather will be on your side! If the skies are clear, I highly recommend taking the elevator up for a bird’s-eye view of Tokyo—it’s especially beautiful at sunset when the city lights start to twinkle.

💡 Insider Tip: If you’re looking to save on admission fees while still getting stunning views of Tokyo, consider skipping the paid observation decks at Tokyo Tower. Instead, before leaving the Azabudai Hills Mori JP Tower, the same building where you visited TeamLab Borderless, head to the 33rd floor. There’s a free observation area that offers panoramic views of the city skyline, including an unobstructed view of Tokyo Tower itself—perfect for those iconic photos! This way, you can enjoy the scenery without missing out on having Tokyo Tower in the background of your shots.

Karaoke bar?

This first day in Tokyo combines art, culture, and food—all essential ingredients for a perfect introduction to this vibrant city. If you’re feeling a bit tired, it might be wise to cut the evening short and save some energy for the next two days.

But if you’re still up for more adventure and are with a group, consider capping off the night in true Tokyo style—a karaoke room! It’s an iconic experience and a fun way to unwind after a day of exploring! We actually opted to call it an early day, but we did do a karaoke room in Kyoto and had an absolute blast and laughed until we were near tears!

I was blown away by how massive these karaoke places are—hallways upon hallways packed with rooms! The photo below shows just one section, and trust me, you’ll find karaoke bars all over the city.

Day 2

Morning: Ueno Park + Ameyoko Shopping District

Ueno Park

Start your day with a visit to Ueno Park, known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and the many cultural attractions it houses, including museums, a zoo, and temples.

Ameyoko Shopping District

After enjoying the greenery, head over to the nearby Ameyoko Shopping District, a marketplace that stretches along the Yamanote Line tracks. This area is full of energy, street food vendors, and shops selling everything from fresh seafood to trendy fashion.

Tokyo is famous for its thrift stores, and Ameyoko is home to several of them. While I didn’t have much luck with my finds—many items seemed to be overpriced American clothes—it’s still worth browsing if you enjoy hunting for unique pieces.

Breakfast + temple

While exploring the district, we grabbed breakfast and coffee at St-Marc Cafe Tokyo Ueno Abab Mae-Shop. The coffee was ok, but the breakfast was delicious and gave us the energy we needed for the second day of this 3 day Tokyo itinerary!

If you’re in the mood to visit a temple, Tokudai-ji Temple is nearby. Tokyo is home to over 1,000 shrines and another 1,000 temples, so there’s no pressure to visit them all. But if you feel inclined, Tokudai-ji offers a serene spot to pause and appreciate the city’s spiritual side.

Afternoon: Tokyo Skytree + Tokyo Solamachi

After exploring Ueno, make your way to the Tokyo Skytree, Japan’s tallest structure! Standing at 2,080 feet (634 meters), the Skytree offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo, and on a clear day, you can even see Mount Fuji.

Unfortunately, when we visited, the rain and fog made it impossible to see anything from the top, so we opted for some retail therapy at Tokyo Solamachi, the massive shopping complex located at the base of the Skytree. With over 300 shops and restaurants, it’s definitely not a bad place to spend a rainy afternoon.

Evening: Shibuya + Shinjinku

Shibuya Scramble

Afterward, head over to Shibuya to experience one of Tokyo’s most iconic spots, the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. It’s the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world! This intersection is a must-see, with hundreds of people crossing from all directions in a perfectly choreographed dance of urban life. It’s an experience that truly captures the energy of Tokyo!

💡 Insider Tip: For those iconic aerial shots of Shibuya Crossing, head to the nearby Starbucks—it’s one of the best free vantage points. However, be prepared for a crowd; you won’t be the only one trying to capture the perfect photo.

Shibuya Sky

After soaking in the chaos of Shibuya, make your way to Shibuya Sky—the rooftop observation deck that offers some of the best views of Tokyo! Since the weather didn’t cooperate for our Tokyo Skytree visit, we were especially excited for our evening here.

Make sure to book your tickets in advance, as the sunset slots sell out fast—sometimes within seconds. Even on a cloudy day, the panoramic views from Shibuya Sky are stunning, and on clear days, you might even spot Mount Fuji.

Dinner

When it comes to dining in Tokyo, I haven’t made too many specific recommendations because the options are overwhelming, and it’s hard to predict where you’ll be when hunger strikes. However, if you get the chance, I highly recommend eating at Japanese Steak Bowl and Beef Curry.

The food was phenomenal—perfectly cooked beef served over garlic rice, and the atmosphere was intimate, with fewer than 15 seats. We were lucky to snag four spots (not together, but we didn’t mind). For four of us, the meal, along with a few glasses of wine, cost around $50 USD—a great deal for such a delicious experience.

Shinjuku

Cap off your evening in Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s most vibrant districts. Start by checking out the famous 3D cat billboard—a fun, eye-catching piece of digital art that’s become a local icon.

Then, head to Piss Alley, also known as Omoide Yokocho. Despite its unflattering name, this lantern-lit alley is a charming slice of old Tokyo, packed with tiny izakaya (Japanese pubs), yakitori shops, and other small eateries. The narrow lanes and cozy atmosphere make it the perfect spot to grab a drink and some late-night snacks, soaking up the unique vibe of Tokyo’s nightlife.

With just 3 days in Tokyo, it’s impossible to fit in every tour and activity, so I recommend prioritizing based on your interests. But this Tokyo Bar Hopping Tour through Shinjuku’s hidden gems is one I’ll definitely be doing next time! Navigating Piss Alley with locals feels like such a experience.

Day 3

Morning: fluffy pancakes + Yoyogi Park

Fluffy pancakes

The final day of your 3 days in Tokyo is going to start with a classic Japanese breakfast: fluffy pancakes! While the ones we tried were just okay, there are plenty of spots around the city known for their pancakes, so hopefully, you find a winner.

Make sure to get there early because these popular spots can get crowded and stay busy.

Yoyogi Park

Once you’re fueled up, head to Yoyogi Park—one of Tokyo’s most popular green spaces. It’s a massive, sprawling area perfect for admiring the relaxing side of Tokyo. Within the park is the Meiji Jingu, a serene Shinto shrine surrounded by lush greenery. Expect to spend about an hour at the park taking in the peaceful atmosphere and exploring the grounds.

Afternoon: Harajuku + Takeshita Street

Harajuku

After Yoyogi Park, make your way to Harajuku, a district famous for its vibrant street fashion and unique culture. Harajuku is the birthplace of many fashion trends, so be sure to check out the eclectic thrift shops and admire the colorful streets!

While you’re here, you might also want to pop into Reissue Cafe for a coffee with a twist. They specialize in latte art that can recreate just about anything in your foam, even your pets! We skipped this spot because there’s a fee, and everyone has to order food along with their coffee, but it’s a fun option if you’re interested.

Takeshita Street

Next, head over to Takeshita Street, the heart of Harajuku’s youth culture. This street is famous for its quirky shops, vibrant atmosphere, and of course, its outrageous food offerings. Indulge in treats like a potato tornado, rainbow cotton candy, and rainbow grilled cheese. Takeshita Street is a sensory overload in the best way—come with an appetite!

Cat Cafe

While you’re in the area, stop by a cat cafe like Cat Cafe Mocha. I was missing my kitty so much that I couldn’t resist! There’s a small fee and a requirement to buy a coffee (which, honestly, wasn’t great), but the adorable cat snuggles made it totally worth it for me. If cats aren’t your thing, don’t worry—there are also owl, hedgehog, and even mipig cafes in the area!

Ramen

After your Harajuku adventure, it’s time to feast on some of Tokyo’s best ramen and dumplings. Head to Oreryu Shio-Ramen for a cool, casual vibe where you order from a vending machine and hand your ticket to the staff.

We weren’t super hungry after our day of snacking, so we shared one bowl of ramen and two orders of dumplings between the four of us. Trust me, those dumplings were some of the best I’ve ever had!

Evening: Mario Kart + dinner

Mario Kart

To wrap up your Tokyo trip with a bang, head back to Shibuya for a unique and exhilarating experience: Mario Kart on the streets of Tokyo! You’ll need an international driver’s license to participate, so make sure you have that sorted before you go. It’s an unforgettable way to see the city and feel like a kid again, racing through the neon-lit streets in costume!

💡 Insider Tip: Evening slots for this activity tend to fill up fast, so make sure to book ahead! The good news is that most bookings through Klook offer free cancellation within 24 hours of the tour, which gave me peace of mind since I’m not a fan of planning too far in advance. But in Japan, it’s definitely a must!

Dinner

If you’ve got an appetite after your Mario Kart adventure, I highly recommend heading to Sukiyaki Matsukiya, a restaurant specializing in sukiyaki and shabu-shabu. Sukiyaki is a traditional Japanese dish where thinly sliced beef and vegetables are simmered in a sweet soy-based broth, and then dipped in raw egg before eating.

Shabu-shabu is similar, but with a savory broth, and you cook the ingredients yourself at the table by swishing them through the hot pot. This was a really unique dining experience that we didn’t do anywhere else in Japan, and the food was absolutely fantastic—even down to the cup of tea and the refreshing melon ice cream for dessert!

Other fun things to do in Tokyo if you have time

• Senso-ji: Tokyo’s oldest and busiest temple.
• Art Aquarium Museum: A mesmerizing blend of art, light, and aquatic life, this museum is an especially great activity for a rainy day. The glowing tanks and beautiful displays make it a unique and enchanting experience.
• Drinks at Bar Centifolia: Known for its insane cocktails, this bar is the perfect spot to experience Tokyo’s innovative mixology scene. Expect creative and visually stunning drinks that are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the palate.
• Imperial Palace: The residence of the Emperor of Japan, this historic site is surrounded by beautiful gardens. Though the palace itself is not open to the public, you can stroll through the East Gardens. Note that the palace is closed on Sundays and Mondays, and open from 9 AM-11:15 AM and 1:30 PM-2:45 PM.
• Day trip to Mt. Fuji: If you have an extra day, a trip to the iconic Mt. Fuji offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities. It’s a great way to experience Japan’s natural beauty.
• Tokyo DisneySea: A unique Disney park that offers a magical experience unlike any other. If you’re a Disney fan and have an extra day in Tokyo, this is a must-visit!

Where to stay in Tokyo

During our trip to Tokyo, we stayed in a few different areas over our five days, but I have to say, Shibuya is definitely the area we’ll choose for future trips! The energy there was more our speed—young, stylish, and vibrant. There’s also so much left to explore in Shibuya that we didn’t get to during our stay.

We also stayed in Akihabara, and while it wasn’t bad, I don’t feel the need to stay there again. Shibuya just has that buzz and charm that really suited us. Plus, it’s central to so many great spots!

For our stay, finding a place for a family of four, one month out, without breaking the bank was tricky. We ended up staying in this downtown apartment, about a 10-minute walk from Shibuya Station. It was decent, but honestly, I would’ve preferred a hotel—especially if you’re traveling in a smaller group. So, here are some hotel recommendations for staying in Shibuya, catering to different budgets:

• Budget option: The Millennials Shibuya Keep in mind that “budget” in Tokyo isn’t quite budget, but this capsule-style hotel is one of the most affordable in Shibuya. The Millennials offers a unique, tech-savvy stay with pod-style rooms and communal spaces. It’s modern, sleek, and in the heart of the action.
• Budget option: Tokyu Stay Shibuya Another well-rated, lower-priced option for Shibuya. Tokyu Stay offers spacious rooms with kitchenettes, making it a great choice for longer stays. It’s a bit quieter but still close to Shibuya Station and all the major attractions.
• Mid-range option: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu Located directly above Shibuya Station, this hotel offers stunning views of the famous Shibuya Crossing. The rooms are spacious for Tokyo standards, and it’s super convenient if you’re planning to explore the area on foot.
• Luxury Option: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel A 5-star luxury hotel with breathtaking views of the city skyline. It’s a short walk to Shibuya Station and features top-notch dining, spacious rooms, and an impeccable spa. Perfect if you’re looking to splurge on comfort and convenience.

Check out all the available options in Shibuya and pricing for your dates here.

Getting around Tokyo

Getting around Tokyo is super easy, thanks to its well-connected and efficient public transportation system. The trains and subways are the most common ways to travel, especially the JR Yamanote Line, which circles the city’s major neighborhoods. You can use a Suica Card for quick access to trains, buses, and even some taxis.

Taxis are available but can be pricey, and Tokyo is also a great city to explore on foot! Don’t forget to check train schedules, especially late at night, as some lines stop running after midnight.

The Suica Card is a must-have for navigating Tokyo’s public transportation system. If you have an iPhone, you can add the Suica Card directly to your Apple Wallet, and it’s incredibly easy to use and reload—no need to open the app even when you’re scanning it! You just tap your phone as you enter and exit the train gates.

If you’re using Android, you’ll need to pick up a physical Suica card from a train station. It’s super convenient for subways, buses, and even at some vending machines and convenience stores!

Other transportation tips

• Many train stations have lockers where you can securely store your belongings for the day. This is super handy if you’re moving between accommodations or don’t want to carry everything around.
• The JR Pass might not be worth the cost, check here to see if it makes sense for you. Tokyo’s subway and train system is efficient, and a Suica Card will be sufficient for getting around.
• If you’re visiting during peak seasons like cherry blossom season or Golden Week, book your inter-city Shinkansen tickets early. However, outside of these busy times, it’s often okay to book a day before or the day of.

General tips for 3 days in Tokyo

• Klook for bookings: While I usually use Viator or GetYourGuide, Klook is incredibly popular in Asia, and it was my go-to for booking activities in Japan. I even used Klook to get my eSIM, which was super easy and convenient! This allowed me to have data throughout my trip without needing a physical SIM card.
• Tipping: Japan doesn’t have a tipping culture, so you won’t need to worry about adding tips after meals or services. This makes transactions easier but may take some getting used to!
• Cash: Although many places accept cards, it’s good to keep some cash on hand for smaller purchases, especially in markets, small eateries, or when visiting temples. When withdrawing cash, I recommend doing so from a 7-Eleven ATM. Always choose to withdraw in yen (instead of your home currency), as you’ll get a better exchange rate that way.
• 7-Eleven: Speaking of 7-Elevens, make sure you take advantage of all of the delicious, unique, and cheap snacks available in these amazing convenience stores! Same with Family Marts!
• Tabelog: Tabelog is Japan’s equivalent of Yelp and is great for checking restaurant reviews. While I might suggest a few spots, I recommend waiting to see where you are when you get hungry and using Tabelog to find a nearby restaurant. One thing to note is that many places I had saved ended up being closed, so don’t get too attached to specific restaurant plans!
• Book activities in advance: Many activities and attractions in Tokyo, especially those that are popular at prime times (like opening hours or sunset), sell out quickly. Keep track of when tickets become available and book them ASAP. This applies to everything from teamLab exhibits to the Shibuya Sky.
• When to visit: Tokyo is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are spring (for cherry blossoms) and fall (for pleasant weather and colorful foliage). I will say I visited in the summer and I found it to be hot but not super humid (I’m used to Florida heat), but it was unfortunate that it rained a bit (it’s the rainy season), and visibility was low for Mt. Fuji for our trip.
• Trash: You may notice the lack of public trash cans in Tokyo. Despite this, the streets are incredibly clean. You’ll often need to hold onto your trash until you can find a bin, usually in convenience stores or train stations.
• eSIM: As mentioned earlier, I used Klook to get an eSIM, and it was super easy to set up and was great for seamless connectivity throughout my trip.
• Hotels near train stations: When choosing accommodation, try to book a hotel near a train station, preferably on a major line like the Yamanote Line, which circles central Tokyo. This will make getting around the city much more convenient.
• Pack comfortable shoes: Since you’ll be doing a lot of walking, this is essential! I loved my Dr Scholl’s sneakers and these Madden Girl sandals.
• Layers: The weather can change quickly, especially in spring and fall, so pack layers like light jackets or sweaters.
• Portable Charger: You’ll be relying on your phone a lot for navigation and train tickets (especially if you’re using Suica on your phone), so a portable charger is a must.
• Umbrella culture: Even if you’re traveling during the rainy season don’t feel like you need to pack an umbrella. Many hotels provide umbrellas for guests to use, and you can also easily buy one for cheap at convenience stores. You’ll often find designated umbrella holders outside restaurants and shops, so you don’t need to bring it inside with you!

Are you ready for an epic 3 days in Tokyo?!

I hope this guide helps you plan the most amazing 3 days in Tokyo! Whether you’re soaking in the vibrant energy of Shibuya, slurping up some delicious ramen, or exploring the city’s mix of old-meets-new vibes, you’re in for a total adventure. Tokyo is truly one of those places that you’ll fall in love with the more you explore, and I can’t wait for you to experience it! Safe travels, and tag me in your Tokyo pics @guidedbydestiny—I’d love to see how you spent your time in this epic city!