Skip to Content

5 Days in Tokyo (The Essential Japan Itinerary)

From the moment you master the sprawling train network that governs this city, the vast metropolis of Tokyo starts to unfurl before you. This is the city where you’ll find ancient shrines just moments away from drip coffee stores and boutiques, where women in kimono brush shoulders with suited individuals rushing to work.

It’s a place where you can live out your anime fantasies and enjoy food that has been crafted to artistic perfection. 5 days in Tokyo is enough to dip into this unique culture and fall in love. So, here’s your Tokyo itinerary in 5 days.

tokyo city guide

Japan City Guide: How to Spend 5 Days in Tokyo

Here, the truly vintage melds seamlessly with the futuristic, and convenience is made an art form. You’ll just as easily find a rooftop bar to enjoy Tokyo’s impressive skyline and signature cocktails as a smoky old Izakaya to down a cup of sake and enjoy some Yakitori. Tokyo is busy, bright, and ready to get lost in.

Find out how to make the most of your time in Japan’s seductive capital and all of the essentials that you need to know that’ll have you prepared and ready to go.  With this Tokyo itinerary, 5 days in Tokyo will be a breeze.

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Have you found where to stay yet? Check out our Tokyo hotel and hostel guide or our neighbourhood guide for some ideas of where to base yourself. If you need more Tokyo inspiration find the rest of our related articles at the bottom of this post.

If you are planning on working while travelling, here are guides for digital nomads in Japan and Tokyo.

The Best Time to Visit Tokyo

Before we dive into your Tokyo itinerary in 5 days, you need to decide on the best time to visit Tokyo. Japanese people are very proud of the fact that their country has four very distinct seasons.

Most people agree, however, that the very best times to spend 5 days in Tokyo are during the hanami or flower-watching season in the Spring (April-May), where you’ll find plenty of cherry blossom-themed events and trinkets, and during the Autumn (September-November) due to the bright red foliage that sets the country ablaze.

This is a country where you can track the foliage as it moves up the country and it’s not unusual for people to take long road trips to catch the very best views. Visit one of Tokyo’s famous parks to see the foliage in action.

The summer is hot and humid, and there’s very little chance to escape the heat except by visiting the far north of the country. While the winter is bitterly cold, you’ll find plenty of onsen (hot springs) to warm you up after a day’s exploring.

You can save plenty of money by visiting during these two off-seasons compared with the popular Spring and Autumn time. Find the best clothes for all seasons in this handy packing list.

tokyo city guide

Japanese Language

Unsurprisingly, they speak Japanese in Tokyo and there is a surprising lack of English but don’t let this deter you during your 5 days in Tokyo. With multilingual signs to guide you everywhere (English being the most prevalent), getting around won’t be an issue.

Most restaurants and coffee shops will have an English menu available. Known to be a country full of the politest people, knowing how to say thank you will get you a long way and arigato gozaimasu will certainly be the words you hear most on your travels.

People are very happy to help in Japan, so if you get lost or need help from one of the train conductors, don’t be afraid to use English and some confident body language.

Read More: Essential Japanese Phrases for Travellers

Is Tokyo Safe?

Safety is rarely an issue in East Asia, and Japan is no exception. This is a country where people don’t think twice about leaving their MacBooks on the cafe table before heading to the bathroom. You’re honestly unlikely to run into danger during your 5 days in Tokyo.

That being said, it’s always good to practice basic safety precautions, and there are women-only carriages on the subway trains for women who prefer to ride the crowded trains without men around.

You can also visit the police boxes ‘Koban’ if you want to report something or call 110 (to go straight to an English answer dial – 03-3501-0110) for the police and 119 for an ambulance or in case of a fire. It’s always worth knowing the emergency numbers, even if your Tokyo itinerary is 5 days.

How to Get Around Tokyo

Tokyo is a city famous for its transportation. You’ll have no trouble finding your way around with the extensive train system that will take you to every inch of Tokyo and beyond – into greater Japan. Both airports are connected to the city subway and you’ll also be able to find convenient coaches at the airports to take you into the city or to popular tourist destinations like Disneyland and DisneySea (also accessible by subway).

Using the Shinkansen bullet train is the best way to get around Japan fast, you can reach Kyoto from Tokyo in just over two hours. If you’re going to use the train more than once then grab a JR Pass, it gets very expensive!

You can also check out our best day trips from Tokyo guide for ideas or discover 20 unique activities you can only do in Tokyo.

Google Maps is your best friend here, the transport is timely and you can rely on Google Maps to give you the best route and accurate times.

It can also help with the buses and will give you the stops along your line. The subway lines are owned by different companies so be prepared to tap out with your subway card or ticket just to enter another part of the station as you change lines along your journey.

The Tokyo subway is massive and can definitely be intimidating, so it’s best to leave with plenty of time to spare. Taxis should be avoided if you’re a budget traveller as they’re far more expensive than any other East Asian city and a twenty-minute ride can easily reach $40-50.

So, now it’s time to find out how to spend 5 days in Tokyo!

Japan City Guide — Essential Tokyo Day One

If you’ve only got one day in Tokyo then the green Yamanote Line is your best friend. The green circle line that runs through the major areas of Tokyo and most tourist spots makes it convenient for visitors, particularly given the Japanese train system can get very complicated to the uninitiated.

This itinerary takes you along three stops of the famous line to and shows you the best of modern Tokyo life from shrines to food, and shopping.

Explore Harajuku

Start your day in Harajuku, so much more than a colourful food destination and people-watching spot this is one of the hippest spots in Tokyo with something for everyone.

Meiji-jingu Shrine is right in the heart of this area and one of the most beautiful and most visited shrines in Tokyo. It’s much quieter in the morning so grab a bento from 7/11 or Family Mart or try some of the exquisite Japanese bakery options and make your way over to the park and shrine.

There’s world-class shopping in Harajuku from boutiques, big-name brands, to thrift stores (Japanese thrift stores are very high quality)

If that’s not your thing then there are a number of rooftop bars, some of the best coffee shops and the city and plenty of restaurants (there’s plenty of ramen restaurants here so it’s good time to try Japan’s famous dish).

Relax in Yoyogi Park

After lunch, hop on the Yamanote line and take a break from the urban jungle at one of Tokyo’s most famous parks. Japan’s seasons are famous and the parks are a sight to behold whatever the time of year. Find the big sake barrels, Meiji-Jingu shrine, and enjoy people-watching.

Get Lost in Shibuya

Once you’re rested carry on along the Yamanote line to Shibuya. Say hello to the famous Hachiko dog statue (at Hachiko exit), pick up a snack from the Tokyu Food Show underneath the station if you’re peckish, and look up at the famous Tokyo neon.

There’s so much to do in Shibuya but it’s worth going just to admire the bright lights and tall buildings of Tokyo’s version of Times Square. Go shopping, head to one of the independent cinemas in the area, and take a picture on that famous crossing. You can get a great view of the crossing from the big Starbucks directly above it.

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Eating Sushi.

Indulge in a Japanese Dinner

There are some fantastic barbecue restaurants (wagyu) in the area and is one of the most fun eating experiences you can have. One recommendation is Han no Daidokoro Dogenzaka, an intimate restaurant with excellent quality meat.

If not, the many department stores in Shibuya have excellent food courts that you can take your pick from. Here’s a restaurant guide by Tokyo district.

There are plenty of bars in the area so if you’re not tired from your day exploring then find a rooftop bar to enjoy the view with a drink.

Read More: The Ten Foods you Must Try in Tokyo.

Japan City Guide — Essential Tokyo Day Two

If you have more than one day in Tokyo then you have a chance to go further afield and see a little of Japan’s long history. Balancing traditional culture with hyper-modernity is what Tokyo does best and today’s itinerary will take you from one to the other with ease.

Once again the Yamanote line will get you through most of today with a little help from the Ginza line.

tokyo city guide

Explore the History of Asakusa

It’s time to head to the spiritual heart of Tokyo, Asakusa on the Ginza line. There’s a lot of history in the area and you can start your day by seeing Sensoji-Temple and the nearby Asakusa-Jinga Shrine. Asakusa is a wonderful place, and if you’re wondering what to do in Tokyo in 5 days, Asakusa is a must-visit magical place.

There are lots of brunch spots in Asakusa so take your pick before heading just three stops west on the Ginza line to Ueno. Our recommendation is Suke6 since the café has a relaxing vibe, they have an extensive menu and the staff are lovely.

If you’re looking to rent a kimono during your 5 days in Tokyo you can do that in Asakusa — check out this great guide from our friend Gina.

Head to Ueno Park for Museums and Shrines

Take some time to stroll around the park as there’s so much to see in there including the statue of The Last Samurai, temples, and a scenic pond.

The huge Ueno park is also home to the city’s most established museums and while you can take your pick of several galleries and museums, Tokyo National Museum is the biggest museum in Japan and spans hundreds of years of Japanese history.

Check out our Tokyo Arts and Culture Guide here.

Go Glam in Roppongi

Time to head to the bright lights and heights of Roppongi for the evening. You can take your pick of restaurants here and the Mori Art Museum is open late if you’re not tired out from Tokyo National.

To extend the evening further the 5-Chome area of Roppongi is home to several clubs, bars, and live music venues like V2 Tokyo, Roppongi Club Edge, and Esprit Tokyo.

Japan City Guide — Essential Tokyo Day Three

If you’ve got 5 days in Tokyo, then you’ve got time to get out of the buzzing metropolis and see some historical Japan. Kamakura is one of many day trips you can go on but for those short on time, it’s one of the easiest that also has the most to offer. It’s ideal for people who wish they could see Kyoto but don’t have the time to go to Kansai, or who just want a quieter option, and it’s a must-visit for those searching for what to do in Tokyo in 5 days. From local shopping to history and fantastic views, Kamakura is a real pleasure.  You can get to Kamakura on the subway so make sure you get on the JR Yokosuka Line headed towards Zushi. It takes 55 minutes and you’ll need to hop off at Kamakura Station.

Giant Buddah kamakura japan

Admire Kōtoku-in — The Giant Buddha

There are some key places to visit in Kamakura, the first up being the giant Buddha (or Kōtoku-in), you can either walk from Kamakura station for about 20 minutes or change at Kamakura station to the Enoden railway line to Hase station then it’s a 5-10-minute walk.

Read More: in our detailed guide to Kamakura

Eat on Komachi Dori Shopping Street

Head back to the station area and up to the Komachi Dori shopping street, this is an amazing place for souvenirs and gifts due to all the shops selling handmade goods.

There are so many restaurants on this street that it’s difficult to choose but it’s also a good time to try some food if you’d rather as you can essentially eat and drink your way up the road while shopping. Some great choices would be yakitori (chicken skewers), okonomiyaki (vegetable and egg pancake), takoyaki (octopus balls), or karaage (fried chicken).

Wander Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

At the end of this street, you’ll find Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine set in its grounds and lake which gives you plenty to explore. There are some famous sake barrels, various statues to look at and some street food vendors.

Unwind in Shinjuku

Head back to Tokyo on the subway and finish off your night in Shinjuku. There is a strong restaurant and nightlife scene in Shinjuku so take your pick as you wander through Kabukicho and go see the famous ‘Piss Alley’ with old bars, barbecues, and olde-worlde vibes.

Japan City Guide — Essential Tokyo Day Four

Create you own breakfast at a Konbini

Konbini (convenience store) culture is a key part of life in Japan and what’s more, the food is delicious! Head to your local 7/11, Family Mart or Lawsons and pick from some delicious gems like onigiri (filled rice balls wrapped in seaweed), fried chicken in the hot counter, or perhaps the infamous and delicious egg sandwiches.

Konbini coffee is also excellent and cheap. Konbinis are some of the simple joys of Japan, and something essential for those wondering what to do in Tokyo in 5 days.

Visit one of Japan’s Amazing Theme Parks

If there’s one thing Japanese people love it’s their theme parks, and Tokyo itself has two amazing parks to enjoy, including the world’s only Disney Sea — which is actually the better of the two parks if you have to choose.

The Disneyland itself is quite small but has all of the usual rides meet Disney character fun. It’s very easy to get to Disney on the Tokyo subway, just change at Tokyo Station.

Taking a trip to Universal Studios is very possible for the day since it’s just two hours to Osaka on the bullet train, there you’ll find the incredible Harry Potter World and get the chance to see the huge Hogwarts castle up close. Find Disney tickets and transfers here. 

If you’re wondering what to do in Tokyo in 5 days, then a  visit to one of Japan’s many theme parks is one of the most memorable unique things to do in Japan.

Japan City Guide – Essential Tokyo Day Five

Get lost in otaku culture in Akihabara

There’s no denying that a big draw to Japan for many is its anime and video-game culture and the nerd’s first stop to Japan is usually Tokyo’s buzzing electric town: Akihabara. For nerds like us, there are no better places to visit in Tokyo than Akihabara.

Even if you’re not a nerdy type, Akihabara is full of unique things to do in Tokyo and a huge part of the culture.

Discover themed cafes to video game bars, and huge department stores packed with retro games, plushies, and anime memorabilia. Since this is electric town, this is also where you come if you’re looking for a new camera or the latest phone or Nintendo console.

With big lights, giant billboards with anime girls on Akihabara never gets old and needs to be seen to be believed. If you’re a proud otaku like us, and you’re looking for where to stay in Tokyo, Akihabara is your haven and a must during your 5 days in Tokyo.

Have lunch at Marugo

Tonkatsu is a dish that is almost universally beloved by everyone in Japan. Thick pork is deep-fried with panko breadcrumbs in a katsu style and is tender and filling, it’s usually served with rice. Marugo offers some of the highest quality tonkatsu in the city for very reasonable prices.

Honestly, when you’re looking for the best of what to eat in Tokyo, both tonkatsu and chicken katsu are the best of choices, and Marugo is a great place to enjoy tonkatsu.

Experience art in a revolutionary new way at TeamLab Borderless

teamlab borderless Tokyo

If you’ve seen those epic Instagram shots of people lost in light and flowers they were probably here. A relatively new experience in Tokyo, it’s unsurprisingly taken off in a big way. Located on Odaiba island, this art installation offers a borderless experience where you wander through light-based art scenes.

The space around you reacts to your presence and touch and the colours are truly out of this world. One of the top places to capture genuinely unique and gorgeous Instagram photos in Tokyo while also trying something new. Grab your ticket here.

    As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. This post may contain affiliate links that earn us a commission.

    Join our Patreon Community for exclusive content and bonuses.