How To Spend 4 Days in Tokyo: Itinerary For First Timer’s

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If you’re looking for the ultimate 4-day Tokyo itinerary, you’re in the right spot! Tokyo is a wild blend of old traditions and futuristic vibes, and even with just 4 days in Tokyo, you’ll get a taste of it all. From crazy crosswalks in Shibuya to epic ramen spots, you’ll be surprised how much you can pack into a few days with a solid plan (and comfy shoes).

This trip was part of my 10-day Japan adventure, and I’ve gotta say—Tokyo was a total standout! Even though we visited during the rainy season, we made it work and had the best time. Google Maps saved us, and we were able to bounce around the city without a hitch. Whether you’re into cool cafes, sightseeing, or just soaking in the Tokyo madness, this city will totally steal your heart!

4-Day Tokyo Itinerary

Day 1

Morning: teamLab Borderless + Coffee

teamLab Borderless

Your first stop in Tokyo is the incredible teamLab Borderless, a digital art museum that has become one of the city’s must-visit attractions! It’s an immersive space where art and technology collide—think interactive light displays, floating lamps, and mind-bending visuals that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a different dimension.

Borderless vs. Planets

Now, here’s the choice: teamLab Borderless or teamLab Planets? Borderless is more expansive, with no set route, letting you wander through different rooms and constantly changing art. On the other hand, Planets is more focused with a handful of massive installations you physically walk or even wade through. If you’re looking for something more hands-on, Planets might be your spot, but if you want to get completely lost in a never-ending art world, Borderless is your go-to.

💡 Insider Tip: Both museums are super popular, so book your tickets well in advance. If you can, aim for the earliest time slot (9 AM) to avoid the crowds. We snagged a 10 AM ticket a month ahead, and it made exploring way more enjoyable before it got too packed.

Coffee at % Arabica

After soaking up all the digital magic at teamLab, you’re probably in serious need of a coffee break—especially if you had a rushed morning like we did. Good news: you won’t have to go far! Just pop into % Arabica, a popular Tokyo coffee spot known for its sleek, minimalist vibe and perfectly brewed coffee. And the best part? It’s right in the same building as teamLab Borderless at Azabudai Hills, making it the perfect pit stop.

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

Tsukiji Fish Market

Once you’re fueled up, it’s time to head to Tsukiji Fish Market—one of Tokyo’s top spots for fresh seafood and street food! While the inner market moved to Toyosu, the outer market is still buzzing with vendors selling everything from sushi to grilled seafood skewers. You’ve got until 2 PM to explore, so make sure to give yourself at least two hours to wander and, more importantly, taste your way through it all.

We spent about an hour and a half at teamLab with a 10 AM slot and made it to Tsukiji just in time for a food-filled adventure.

💡 Insider Tip: As the market gets closer to closing time, you can often score great deals on seafood! Keep an eye out for items going on sale about an hour before the market shuts 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 isn’t just about the seafood—it’s filled with all kinds of treats! You’ll find everything from tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet) to some unexpected international bites. If you’re exploring with friends, it’s the perfect place to share and taste a little bit of everything! 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 gorgeous Buddhist temple right next to the Tokyo Tower, beautifully blending old and new Tokyo. Dating back to the 14th century, it’s the main temple of the Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism.

The peaceful grounds offer a quiet place for reflection, with the Tokyo Tower in the background making for a picture-perfect moment! Don’t miss the touching memorial area dedicated to unborn children, where rows of small statues adorned with colorful clothes and pinwheels create a serene, emotional space. It’s a calming, culturally rich stop before heading to Tokyo’s most iconic landmark.

Tokyo Tower

After indulging in all of the market treats, it’s time to visit the famous Tokyo Tower. With its striking red and white design, this 1100 ft (333 meter) tall tower gives off some major Eiffel Tower vibes but with a distinct Tokyo twist. The views from the observation deck are some of the best in the city!

When we went, the rain decided to ruin our plans, but fingers crossed for clear skies during your visit! If the weather’s on your side, I highly recommend riding the elevator up—sunset is magical, with the city lights twinkling to life.

💡 Insider Tip: Want to skip the Tokyo Tower admission fee and still get those killer city views? Before leaving the Azabudai Hills Mori JP Tower (where teamLab Borderless is) visit the 33rd floor for a free observation area. You’ll not only get a panoramic view of the skyline but also an amazing shot of Tokyo Tower itself without paying for the observation deck!

Karaoke bar?

Honestly, at this point you’ve had a pretty jam packed day and you still have three more days ahead! If you’re feeling beat, feel free to cut the evening short and save some energy for the next three 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!

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

Kick off day two with a visit to Ueno Park, a scenic spot that really shines in the spring with its gorgeous cherry blossoms. The park also has several cultural gems, like museums, temples, and even a zoo—plenty to explore!

Ameyoko Shopping District

Once you’ve soaked in the park vibes, head over to the Ameyoko Shopping District, just a short walk away. This bustling market area is packed with street food stalls, and shops selling everything from fresh seafood to trendy clothes.

If you’re into thrifting, Ameyoko has a few thrift shops. I didn’t have the best luck during my visit—lots of overpriced American brands—but it’s still a fun spot to hunt for some hidden gems!

Breakfast + temple

While exploring the district, we stopped by St-Marc Cafe Tokyo Ueno Abab Mae-Shop for some breakfast and coffee. The coffee wasn’t anything special, but the breakfast was delicious and gave us the energy boost we needed for our second day in Tokyo!

If you’re up for visiting a temple, Tokudai-ji Temple is nearby. With Tokyo having over 1,000 shrines and temples, you don’t need to see them all, but Tokudai-ji offers a peaceful spot if you want to take in a bit of the city’s spiritual side.

Afternoon: Tokyo Skytree + Tokyo Solamachi

After exploring Ueno, head over to the Tokyo Skytree, Japan’s tallest structure at an impressive 2,080 feet (634 meters)! The Skytree offers stunning panoramic views of Tokyo, and if the weather’s on your side, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji.

Unfortunately, when we visited, rain and fog had other plans, so the view was a no-go. Instead, we did some retail therapy at Tokyo Solamachi, the huge shopping complex at the base of the Skytree. With over 300 shops and restaurants, it’s the perfect spot to spend a rainy afternoon!

Evening: Shibuya + Shinjinku

Shibuya Scramble

Next up, make your way to Shibuya and check out one of Tokyo’s most famous landmarks—the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. As the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, it’s a sight to see! Watching hundreds of people move in all directions at once is like a perfectly timed urban dance, and it really gives you a feel for the energy of Tokyo.

💡 Insider Tip: For those iconic aerial shots of Shibuya Crossing, pop into the Starbucks nearby. It’s a great (and free!) spot to take it all in—just expect a bit of a crowd because everyone’s after that perfect shot!

Shibuya Sky

After soaking in the hustle of Shibuya Crossing, make your way to Shibuya Sky, an epic rooftop observation deck that offers some of the best views in the city! Since our Tokyo Skytree visit was a bust thanks to the weather, we were extra excited for this one.

Make sure you book your tickets in advance, especially if you’re aiming for sunset because those slots sell out super fast. Even on a cloudy day, the views are breathtaking, and if you’re lucky enough to visit on a clear day, you might catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji.

Dinner

When it comes to restaurants in Tokyo, there are so many options it’s tough to make specific recommendations—you’ll probably just stumble upon something delicious wherever you are.

But if you have the chance, I highly recommend checking out Japanese Steak Bowl and Beef Curry. It’s a small, intimate spot (less than 15 seats), and the food was incredible! Think perfectly cooked beef over garlic rice—so good. We were lucky to grab four seats (not together, but no complaints), and for all of us, the meal, plus a few glasses of wine, came out to about $50 USD. An absolute steal for the quality!

Shinjuku

End your night in Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s most electric neighborhoods. Start by spotting the famous 3D cat billboard—a fun, eye-catching piece of digital art that’s become a local icon.

Next, wander over to Piss Alley (Omoide Yokocho). Don’t let the name throw you off—this charming lantern-lit alley is packed with tiny izakayas, yakitori spots, and hole-in-the-wall eateries. It’s got this cozy, old-school Tokyo vibe and is perfect for grabbing a drink and some late-night bites.

With just 4 days in Tokyo, you won’t be able to hit everything, but if you love the nightlife, I recommend doing a Tokyo Bar Hopping Tour through Shinjuku’s hidden gems. Navigating Piss Alley with locals feels like it would be an unforgettable experience—definitely adding it to my must-do list for next time!

Day 3

Day Trip to Mt. Fuji

While I’ve put this as a day 3 activity, feel free to do it on whichever day works best for you. The key is to make sure the visibility is good, so this might be something you don’t lock in until you’re actually in Tokyo and can keep an eye on the weather. Mt. Fuji is stunning, but only if you can see it!

How to Get There

Getting to Mt. Fuji is pretty simple. You will be heading to Kawaguchiko from Tokyo, and the easiest and most popular way to get there is by train. Start at Shinjuku Station and hop on the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki Station. Once there, switch to the Fujikyu Railway, which will take you straight to Kawaguchiko Station.

The whole journey usually takes about 2 hours, so it’s perfect for a quick getaway. And bonus: the train ride is super scenic! Relax and soak in the countryside views—if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji along the way!

Things to Do

Once you arrive, there’s plenty to explore around Mt. Fuji! Some of the top activities include visiting the beautiful lakes, exploring the charming towns, and getting up close to the mountain’s base. Here are a few must-dos:

• Lake Kawaguchi: This is one of the most famous lakes near Mt. Fuji and offers stunning views of the mountain. There are boat rides, scenic spots for photos, and even a cable car that takes you up Mt. Tenjo for an even higher view of the mountain.
• Chureito Pagoda: If you’ve seen iconic photos of Mt. Fuji with a pagoda in the foreground, this is the spot! It’s a little hike to the top, but the panoramic views are absolutely worth it.
• Oishi Park: If you’re visiting during flower season, Oishi Park is a great place to see colorful blooms with Mt. Fuji as the backdrop.

For more detailed suggestions on what to do during your day trip to Mt. Fuji, check out my blog post where I cover even more fun spots to visit, including how to make the most of your day and some helpful tips!

💡 Insider Tip: Remember, weather can change fast, so flexibility is key. Keep your plans open, check visibility before you go. Speaking from experience, we didn’t leave much room in our schedule and ended up visiting on a day with zero visibility! Even so, I absolutely fell in love with Kawaguchiko and don’t regret going at all. But now I’ve got the perfect excuse to go back and catch that epic view next time!

Day 4

Morning: fluffy pancakes + Yoyogi Park

Fluffy pancakes

Kick off your final day in Tokyo with a classic Japanese breakfast—fluffy pancakes! While the ones we had were just okay, there are tons of places around the city known for their pancakes, so fingers crossed you find a winner. Just make sure to get there early because these spots fill up fast!

Yoyogi Park

Once you’re fueled up, head to Yoyogi Park—one of Tokyo’s biggest and most popular parks. It’s a peaceful spot to slow down and enjoy Tokyo’s more relaxed side. Don’t miss the Meiji Jingu Shrine inside the park—its serene vibe and lush surroundings are definitely worth checking out. Plan to spend about an hour exploring and soaking it all in.

Afternoon: Harajuku + Takeshita Street

Harajuku

Next up, head to Harajuku, where Tokyo’s iconic street fashion scene comes to life. The colorful streets are packed with unique thrift shops and the trendiest spots to shop and people-watch.

While you’re in the area, check out Reissue Cafe if you want your coffee with a side of latte art. They can recreate just about anything in your foam—even your pet! We skipped it because there’s a fee, and you have to order food too, but it’s a fun option if you’re up for it.

Takeshita Street

Ready for some sensory overload? Head over to Takeshita Street, the heart of Harajuku’s youth culture. It’s full of quirky shops, street food, and all kinds of colorful chaos. Try wild snacks like rainbow cotton candy, potato tornadoes, and rainbow grilled cheese. It’s a total must if you want the full Harajuku experience—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 fur baby so much that I had to go! There’s a small fee, and you need to order a coffee (which, honestly, wasn’t great), but the cat snuggles more than made up for it.

Not into cats? Don’t worry—Harajuku has cafes with owls, hedgehogs, and even mipigs!

Ramen

After all that exploring, you may want a heartier bite. Head to Oreryu Shio-Ramen for some seriously good ramen and dumplings. It’s a casual, fun spot where you order through a vending machine and hand the staff your ticket.

We weren’t too hungry after all the snacking, so we split a bowl of ramen and a couple of dumpling orders between the four of us—and those dumplings were some of the best I’ve ever had!

Evening: Mario Kart + dinner

Mario Kart

End your Tokyo trip with a bang by zooming through the city on a Mario Kart tour! Yes, you can actually dress up as your favorite Mario character and drive go-karts through the streets of Tokyo. You’ll need an international driver’s license, so make sure you’ve got that ready beforehand.

💡 Insider Tip: Evening slots for Mario Kart tours fill up fast, so definitely book ahead. Most bookings through Klook offer free cancellation within 24 hours, which was a relief since I like to keep my plans flexible, but trust me, this one’s worth locking in!

Dinner

To cap off the night, treat yourself to Sukiyaki Matsukiya. This cozy spot specializes in sukiyaki and shabu-shabu, two traditional Japanese dishes where you cook your own meat and veggies at the table. 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 such a fun and interactive dining experience, and the meal was absolutely perfect, right down to 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.
• 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

For 4 days in Tokyo, Shibuya makes the perfect home base. It’s centrally located, just 15 minutes from Takeshita Street and about 30 minutes from the Tsukiji Fish Market (your farthest outing aside from your day trip). Here are some solid hotel options near Shibuya Station:

• Budget Option: Tokyu Stay Shibuya is a highly-rated, wallet-friendly choice with spacious rooms. It’s a bit quieter, yet still conveniently close to Shibuya Station and all the major attractions.
• Mid-Range Option: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu is situated directly above Shibuya Station and has stunning views of the iconic Shibuya Crossing. The rooms are roomy by Tokyo standards, and its prime location makes it a fantastic pick for exploring on foot.
• Luxury Option: If you’re looking for a bit of indulgence, the Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel is a 5-star gem offering breathtaking views of the city skyline. Just a short stroll from Shibuya Station, it features excellent dining options, spacious accommodations, and a fabulous spa for some pampering.

Check out all the available options in Shibuya and pricing for your dates here. And if you want to learn more about other popular neighborhoods to stay in Tokyo check out my full guide.

Getting Around Tokyo

Navigating Tokyo is a breeze (once you get the hang of it) and super efficient! First things first: grab a Suica card (iPhone users can easily download it on their phone). This handy rechargeable card makes hopping on trains and buses a piece of cake. If you’re a first-time visitor, the JR Yamanote Line is your best friend—it circles all the key neighborhoods. Meanwhile, the Tokyo Metro will help you tackle the city’s extensive subway network.

With just 4 days in Tokyo, stick to trains and subways for smooth travel between attractions. Taxis are an option, but they can be pricey and not the best choice for short distances. Just swipe that Suica card and get ready to explore Tokyo like a pro!

Are you ready for an epic 4 days in Tokyo?!

And there you have it—your fabulous, fun-filled 4-day Tokyo itinerary! From indulging in fluffy pancakes to racing through the neon-lit streets in Mario Kart. Grab your Suica card, channel your inner foodie, and get ready for an adventure that’s as dynamic as the city itself! Let me know what you’re most looking forward to about Tokyo in the comments.

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Japan blog posts:

Kyoto tea ceremony review

2-day Osaka itinerary

1 day in Kyoto