Tokyo in 3 Days Itinerary: Must-See Attractions and Hidden Gems

Welcome to your ultimate guide for exploring Tokyo in 3 days! We’ll see iconic landmarks, delve into the local culture, savor delicious cuisine, and discover hidden gems that make Tokyo so unique.

Day 1: Exploring Traditional Tokyo

Morning: Sensō-ji Temple and Asakusa

Start your first day in Tokyo with a visit to one of the city’s most famous temples, Sensō-ji, located in Asakusa. This ancient temple dates back to the year 645 and is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Wander through the vibrant Nakamise Shopping Street leading up to the temple, where you’ll find traditional snacks and souvenirs.

• • Location: 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City
  • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily

• Nearby Attractions: Asakusa Culture and Tourist Information Center, Sumida Park

After visiting the temple, take a leisurely stroll along the Sumida River or explore the surrounding Asakusa district known for its historic atmosphere and vibrant markets.

Midday: Ueno Park and Museums

From Asakusa, you can take a quick taxi ride or a scenic walk to Ueno Park, one of Tokyo’s largest public parks. Ueno Park is home to several must-see attractions, including the Tokyo National Museum, the oldest and largest museum in Japan.

• Location: Ueno Park, Taito City
• Opening Hours:
  • Tokyo National Museum: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
• Nearby Attractions: Ueno Zoo, Shinobazu Pond, Ameya-Yokocho Market

Afternoon: Akihabara – The Electric Town

Next, head to Akihabara, Tokyo’s bustling electronics district. Known as the “Electric Town,” Akihabara is a haven for those interested in the latest gadgets, anime, and manga.

• Must-Visit Spots: Yodobashi Camera, Akihabara Radio Center, various themed cafes

Take your time to explore the countless electronics shops and themed cafes. If you’re an anime or manga fan, you’ll find plenty of shops dedicated to these subcultures, making Akihabara a paradise for enthusiasts.

Evening: Dinner in Shibuya

Conclude your first day in Tokyo with a visit to Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s most dynamic districts. Famous for the Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing, this area is a perfect blend of neon lights, fashion, and culinary delights.

• Must-Visit Dining Spots: Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka (a conveyor belt sushi restaurant), Sushi no Midori, Ichiran Ramen

After a delicious dinner, take a stroll through the nearby streets and soak in the energetic atmosphere that Shibuya is known for.

Day 2: Modern Tokyo and Beyond

Morning: Tokyo Skytree and Asakusa

Start your day with a breathtaking view from the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan. The observation deck offers panoramic views of Tokyo and, on clear days, even Mount Fuji.

• Location: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City
• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
• Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds, and consider buying tickets online in advance.

After taking in the views, explore the Tokyo Solamachi shopping complex at the base of the Skytree, where you can find a variety of stores, restaurants, and an aquarium.

Midday: Harajuku and Meiji Shrine

Next, take a short train ride to Harajuku, the center of Japanese youth culture and fashion. Here, you can visit two contrasting attractions:

• Takeshita Street: Famous for its quirky shops, trendy boutiques, and delicious crepes. A must-visit for fashion enthusiasts.
• Meiji Shrine: An oasis of calm and tradition amidst the bustling city. This Shinto shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken and is surrounded by a tranquil forest.

Afternoon: Odaiba – Futuristic Island

From the historical to the modern, head over to Odaiba, a futuristic man-made island in Tokyo Bay. Known for its ultra-modern architecture, shopping, and entertainment, Odaiba offers a plethora of activities:

• Odaiba Seaside Park: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach and soak in the views of the Rainbow Bridge.
• Aqua City Odaiba: A shopping mall with a variety of stores and a cinema complex.

If you’re interested in futuristic technology, don’t miss the Miraikan (National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation), where you can explore interactive exhibits about space, robots, and more.

Evening: Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Tower

Conclude your second day by visiting the Roppongi Hills complex, known for its vibrant nightlife, upscale shopping, and dining options. For an unforgettable view of Tokyo at night, visit the Mori Art Museum and Tokyo City View.

Before calling it a night, head to the iconic Tokyo Tower, a symbol of Tokyo. The observation decks offer stunning night views of the city’s illuminated skyline.

• Location: 4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:30 PM daily (last admission 10:30 PM)
• Tickets: Available online or at the entrance

Day 3: Exploring Tokyo’s Neighborhoods

Morning: Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your final day in Tokyo with a visit to the Tsukiji Outer Market, a bustling area filled with vendors selling fresh seafood, produce, and other culinary delights. Although the inner wholesale market has moved to Toyosu, the outer market remains a vibrant place to explore and sample local foods.

• Location: Tsukiji, Chuo City
• Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday) / 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Wednesday and Friday)
• Tips: Arrive early to beat the crowd and try fresh sushi for breakfast at one of the small eateries.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the market and enjoy the local atmosphere.

Midday: Ginza – Tokyo’s Luxury Shopping District

Next, head to Ginza, Tokyo’s premier shopping district known for its luxury boutiques, flagship stores, and high-end dining. Wander along the main street, Chuo-dori, and explore the many department stores including Mitsukoshi and Ginza Six.

• Must-Visit Stores: Uniqlo Ginza (12 floors of fashion), Wako (luxury department store), Itoya (stationery paradise)
• Tips: Visit on a weekend when the main street is closed to vehicles, creating a pleasant pedestrian zone.

Take your time to explore and perhaps enjoy a gourmet lunch at one of Ginza’s many acclaimed restaurants.

Afternoon: Exploring Shinjuku

After lunch, make your way to Shinjuku again. Begin with a visit to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, where you can enjoy free panoramic views of the city from the observation decks.

• Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM daily
• Tips: On clear days, you can see all the way to Mount Fuji.

Next, take a stroll to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a large park offering beautiful landscapes and a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

• Location: 11 Naito-machi, Shinjuku City
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily (Closed on Mondays)
• Tips: Perfect for a relaxing afternoon walk, especially during cherry blossom season.

Evening: Shinjuku Nightlife and Kabukichō

As night falls, explore the bustling streets of Kabukichō, Tokyo’s famous red-light district filled with neon lights, entertainment venues, and restaurants. Despite its reputation, Kabukichō is generally safe and offers a unique look at Tokyo’s nightlife.

For dinner, head to the Golden Gai area, known for its narrow alleys and tiny bars. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink and chat with locals or fellow travelers. If you prefer a quieter vibe, the area around Piss Alley offers a range of traditional yakitori bars and izakayas.

Alternative Evening: Odaiba Night Cruise

If nightlife isn’t your scene, consider ending your trip with a serene Odaiba Night Cruise. Enjoy a romantic and relaxing cruise through Tokyo Bay, taking in the sights of the illuminated skyline and Rainbow Bridge.