How Many Days In Tokyo? Your Complete Guide

Last Updated on March 13, 2025 by Audrey

Wondering how many days you should spend in Tokyo? Find your sweet spot number.

Tokyo is the biggest city in Japan, and it’s an incredible place to visit. There’s just so much to see and do in every street and narrow alley that you come across. Relaxing temples, cozy izakayas, and quirky activities (samurai restaurant, anyone?) are just some of the many attractions that will interest you.

However, due to the sheer volume of enticements, planning your big trip to Japan can be a bit challenging, especially when figuring out how many days you should dedicate to visiting Tokyo. 

I’ve been to Tokyo numerous times, and while the city is ever-changing, I’ve seen the majority of the city’s highlights and hidden gems over the years. I’ve learned exactly what is a must-see and what can be saved for a second trip down the road. Everything I’ll provide is based on my own trips to Tokyo, and I’ll fill you in on everything: things I’ve loved, things I disliked, and my real itineraries based on past visits.

First person's perspective of crossing the Shibuya Crossing during the day, with a bustling crowd of people walking in all directions and tall buildings surrounding the intersection.

No time to read the whole post? I recommend spending 4-5 days in Tokyo for a 2 week trip.

In this guide, I’ll let you know exactly how many of your precious hours you should give to this crazy, lively beast of a city. I’ll make suggestions based on how many days you have in Japan, what you should see while you’re in Tokyo, and also include the best places to stay. 

How Many Days in Tokyo for a First-Time Visit?

If it's your first time visiting Tokyo, you'll probably want to spend a good amount of time there. Typically first-time visitors spend 3 to 7 days in Tokyo soaking up all the sights and landmarks.

Is 3 Days in Tokyo Enough for a First Visit?

Bottom line: It’s not ideal, but hey, better than nothing!

There are just so many things to see and do in Tokyo that I recommend at least 4-5 days. 3 days will feel very, very cramped, and you’re going to be exhausted. Your feet will be dying, yet you must muster on. Get the coffee ready, because you’re going to need some. 

The famous Shibuya Crossing as seen from Shibuya Sky in Tokyo, Japan
The Shibuya Crossing as seen from Shibuya Sky Photo Credit: Kanzilyou on Canva

You’re going to have to hit Shibuya and see the Shibuya Scramble. Don’t forget about TeamLab, which is sadly kind of out of the way from everything. And don’t you want to see Sensoji Temple while you’re there? And there’s Tokyo Skytree, Ginza, Tsukiji Market… Basically, there’s a lot of stuff. 

However, let’s say you only have a week in Japan. In that case, 3 days in Tokyo will have to do it. If you’re only staying for a week or less I recommend only visiting Tokyo and one other city max (or just staying in Tokyo entirely), so the majority of your time will be spent enjoying the cities instead of sitting on a train. 

Best Length for a Tokyo First-Timer (3, 5, or 7 Days?)

My ideal first trip to Japan would be 10-14 days, and ideally 5 days in Tokyo. If this sounds like what your trip is going to be, congratulations! You’ve won, my friend. That heavenly 2 week trip to Japan is going to be Chef’s Kiss.

Overall, 4-5 days is fine for a Tokyo first timer. If you’re more of a relaxed traveler, or plan to explore the surrounding areas like Yokohama, Mount Fuji, Hakone, etc., then 6-7 days would be great. 

You already know how I feel about 3 days in Tokyo, especially if it’s your first time. 

The Most Popular Tokyo Itineraries

Now, let’s get into the most popular Tokyo itineraries based on your trip length.

I think it’s safe to say that most of us Tokyo virgins aren’t planning to spend 2 whole weeks in Tokyo for the first time, so I’ll give you itineraries for 3, 4, 5, and 7 days. That’s right 3-day Tokyo goers, I still got you. 

3 days in Tokyo

With only 3 days in Tokyo, you’ll be going to two neighborhoods a day. You’ll see the essential must-see spots, but will skip out on some attractions like Tokyo Skytree and the Imperial Palace.

The five storied pagoda at Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. The pagoda is a bright red color, with a black roof under a bright sunny day.
Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo.

You won’t have time for a day trip to Mount Fuji or Hakone either, but don’t worry! You can always come back for more in the future (wink)!

3 day Tokyo Itinerary

Day 1: North Tokyo

Asakusa

This district is well known for its older Tokyo vibe, with stalls selling souvenirs, street food, and traditional craft stores on Nakamise-Dori straight leading to the famous Sensoji Temple. 

Sensoji Temple

The most famous Buddhist temple in Tokyo, this temple features the five-storied pagoda, a beautiful garden, and Kaminarimon, a large temple gate with a huge, bright red lantern that marks the entrance to the temple. 

Nakamise Dori Street

A super fun shopping street lined with street stalls selling delicious snacks and souvenirs. There are a lot of delicious restaurants and cafes in the area as well as arcades and boutique stores.

After visiting Asakusa, Hop on the train at Asakusa Station and take the Ginza Line to Ueno Station to get to Ueno Park.

Ueno Park

A peaceful park with Tokyo National Museum, National Museum of Nature and Science, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, and Ueno Zoo within walking distance. It’s incredibly beautiful during cherry blossom season, and you can rent a boat and explore the park from the water.

Ueno Ameyoko

A bargain shopping street selling discounted items, pre-loved luxury, food, and cosmetics. 

For your last stop of the day, take either the Yamanote Line, Ginza Line, or Keihin-Tohoku Line to Akihabara or Suehirochō station.

Akihabara

An anime-centric neighborhood that specializes in tech products, anime, and maid-cafes. Not an essential must see, but a fun place to check out.

Day 2: Central Tokyo

A girl visiting Teamlab Planets. She is standing in a room called the Infinite Crystal Universe with rainbow light fixtures. She has a soft smile on her face.
Teamlab Borderless or Planets

Teamlab has two digital art museums in Tokyo, Borderless and Planets. You can check out my post to decide which you want to visit, but I highly recommend checking one of them out during your trip. The art installations are incredibly beautiful and interactive.

After Borderless, take the Hibiya Line from Kamiyacho Station to Tsukiji Station.

If you visited Planets instead, go to Shin-Toyosu Station and take the Yurikamome to Toyosu Station. Transfer to the Yurakucho Line and ride to Shintomicho Station. Walk for 13 minutes to get to Tsukiji Outer Market.

Tsukiji Fish Market

Tokyo’s fish market is a must-visit destination for foodies and fish lovers. You can try amazing Japanese food from street stalls and restaurants. Enjoy fresh o-toro (tuna belly), oysters, wagyu, mochi, and more.

You can walk from Tsukiji Market to the shops at Ginza in around 10 minutes or less. I personally enjoyed getting to explore the city streets on foot and seeing everyone going about their day.

Ginza

One of Tokyo’s shopping districts, Ginza is home to luxury stores, vintage shops, and has the Flagship Muji and Uniqlo stores. Spend some time shopping here, or you can check out the Ginza Art Aquarium.

Uniqlo Flagship Store

I highly recommend checking out the Uniqlo Flagship store, it has 12 floors and the clothes are cheaper than in America! 

Day 3: West Tokyo

Shinjuku Gyoen Garden

One of Tokyo’s most popular parks, with three different gardens featuring Japanese, French, and English style landscapes and a variety of flower displays.

Meiji Jingu

A Shinto Shrine with a large forest, where you can see wedding processions and Shinto ritual ceremonies. Yoyogi Park is also closeby.

Omotesando

Another major luxury shopping neighborhood walking distance from Meiji Jingu. You’ll find Tokyu Plaza and Shel’tter here, large popular shopping malls with tons of Japanese brands.

Harajuku

My personal favorite district in Tokyo, you’ll see tons of street fashion here, and there are a plethora of vintage shops selling quirky clothes at affordable prices.

Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Walk the world famous Shibuya Scramble, with 5 different crosswalks going simultaneously. Don’t forget to see the famous Hachiko Statue in Shibuya Station before you head out.  

Shibuya Sky

For the best view of the scramble crossing, head up to Shibuya Sky to see it from 229 meters up. The most popular time to visit is sunset hour, so come at 5 pm or 5:30 to get some stunning pictures during golden hour.

Omoide Yokocho

A famous narrow alley reminiscent of old-world Japan, with izakayas and small bars that can fit up to 4-6 people at a time. Wander the restaurants and try traditional yakitori skewers and small appetizers.

4 or 5 days in Tokyo

I think 4 or 5 days in Tokyo is the sweet spot for a first-time visitor. You’ll see most of the city’s attractions, and the pace won’t feel too overwhelming. You can even spend a day on a day trip to visit Mount Fuji, Nikko, or Yokohama, if you want.

A girl holding a camera to her face at teamlab borderless in Tokyo. She is surrounded by glowing lanterns that shine warm yellow and blue colors.
Teamlab Borderless in Tokyo.

I’ll give you a sample itinerary, and add on to the new stops that I’ve included with the extra days.

For more details, I recommend checking out my 4 day Tokyo itinerary. It includes 3 to 4 full days in Tokyo, and includes one optional day trip outside of the city. I also list all of my favorite restaurants and food spots there.

5 Day Tokyo Travel Guide

Day 1: North Tokyo

  • Asakusa
  • Sensoji Temple
  • Nakamise-Dori Street
  • Ueno Ameyoko
  • Ueno Park
  • Akihabara
Tokyo National Museum

Add Tokyo National Museum to your agenda when you visit Ueno Park! This is Japan's oldest museum, and has over 120,000 artifacts and works of art in their collection. It's located right in Ueno Park along with a couple other museums and Ueno Zoo.

Day 2: Central Tokyo

  • Teamlab Borderless or Planets
  • Tsukiji Outer Market
  • Ginza
Imperial Palace

Home to the imperial family, you can explore the carefully manicured east gardens and the inner palace gardens with a guided tour. The most famous bridge in Japan, the Nijubashi Bridge, is located here.

Day 3: Northwest Tokyo

  • Meiji Temple
  • Omotesando 
  • Harajuku
  • Shibuya Scramble
  • Shibuya Sky
Centre Gai

An area in Shibuya packed with tons of stores, arcades, restaurants and arcades. You can check out the Mega Don Quijote, Nintendo store, or wander around the shops.  

Day 4: West Tokyo

Shinjuku Gyoen Garden

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

This two tower building has a panoramic view of Tokyo’s cityscape that you can see for free! 

Godzilla Head

Spot the fire-breathing Godzilla head from Hotel Gracery Shinjuku. 

Kabukicho

Shinjuku’s nightlife area has a ton of dining and entertainment options. You can stop by Kabukicho Tower, a 53-story high rise with a club, movie theater, and gourmet restaurants. 

Pick between Omoide Yokocho or Golden Gai

Golden Gai is a narrow alley packed with tiny bars. You can bar hop and check out some really uniquely themed bars and meet a great mix of locals and tourists.

Day 5: Take a Day Trip

Red torii gate of Hakone Shrine standing in the water, with a small boat passing by and lush mountains in the background.
Hakone Shrine
Photo Credit: Leung Cho Pan on Canva

I recommend spending a day exploring the nearby area. Some popular day trip options you can consider are: Yokohama, Nikko, Hakone, Mount Fuji, Disney Sea, Sanrio Puroland, and Studio Ghibli.

Yokohama

Japan’s second largest city, you’ll find the Cup Ramen Museum, Chinatown, Red Brick Warehouse, and Cosmo World here.

Nikko

A peaceful city filled with beautiful waterfalls, relaxing hot springs, and the Toshogu shrine, an opulent shrine dedicated to the Tokugawa shogunate. You can take a break from city life and relax in one of Nikko’s eight different onsen resort areas.

Mount Fuji

Try to catch a glimpse of Japan’s most iconic landmark by venturing to Lake Kawaguchi. You can also visit Oishi Park and shop at Gotemba Premium Outlets. You can join a full day tour for convenient transportation from Tokyo. 

Hakone

Another popular day trip option with stunning views of Mount Fuji, Hakone is known for Hakone Shrine, and has several stunning art museums such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum, the POLA Art Museum, and the Venetian Glass Museum. 

Tokyo Disney

Japan’s Disney resort has two different parks here, Tokyo Disney and Tokyo Sea. While Tokyo Disney is reminiscent of Disneyland in Los Angeles, Tokyo Sea is an entirely unique park with their own exclusive characters.

Sanrio Puroland

Meet your favorite Sanrio characters, go on themed rides, and take kawaii photos.

Studio Ghibli

For Ghibli fans, you can take a trip to the Ghibli Museum and see the behind the scenes of popular films like Princess Monomoke and Totoro. There’s also a tour that includes dining at the historic hotel that inspired Spirited Away.

A week (or more) in Tokyo

First, I need some details. Like who are you and what do you do to get a whole week in Tokyo, and can you refer me?!

A whole week in Tokyo, if you are blessed with the time, will be very fun. You’ll get to see each area at your own pace and can go back to places you fall in love with. You can also explore the surrounding area and take a day trip or two. I’m jealous of you, and so excited for you!

A nighttime view of Roppongi, showcasing a modern skyscraper illuminated against the dark sky, with vibrant cherry blossoms in full bloom in the foreground. The bright pink sakura blossoms contrast beautifully with the sleek, lit-up building, creating a striking scene that captures both the natural beauty and urban energy of Tokyo.
Photo Credit: 7maru on Canva

If you have two weeks in Tokyo, then I recommend exploring at your leisure and doing one area a day. Here’s a sample itinerary of a whole week in Tokyo.

For more details and food recommendations, I recommend checking out my 6 day Tokyo Itinerary, though the structure may differ just a tad.

7 Day Tokyo Itinerary

Day 1: Asakusa

  • Asakusa
  • Sensoji Temple
  • Nakamise-Dori Street
Walk the Sumida Riverwalk

You can easily take a stroll from Asakusa to Tokyo Skytree if it’s a nice day. You’ll get a great view of the Sumida River, and you’ll see Tokyo from a different perspective. It’s about a 15 minute walk on the bridge.

Tokyo Skytree

The tallest tower in the world, with 360 degree views of Tokyo. There are hundreds of shops, cafes, and restaurants nearby, and there are original teamlab art installations in the tower.

Day 2: Central Tokyo

  • Imperial Garden
  • Nijubashi Bridge
  • Ueno Park
  • Tokyo National Museum
  • Ueno Ameyoko
  • Akihabara
Pokemon Cafe Tokyo Nihonbashi

I also recommend checking out the Pokémon Cafe if you're a big fan and have the time.

You'll eat pokemon themed dishes with Charmander, Snorlax, and tons of pokemon presented by Chef Pikachu himself! The coffee has adorable pokemon art, and the entire cafe is a pokemon lover’s paradise. Reservations are extremely hard to grab, so make sure to plan for it. 

Day 3: Ginza

  • Teamlab Planets or Borderless
  • Tsukiji Fish Market
  • Ginza
  • Uniqlo Flagship Store
Muji Flagship Store

If you haven't checked out the MUJI Flagship Store before, I highly recommend going since you have the extra time. They sell simple home decor and office accessories, but the quality is top notch. There's a cafe, library, and even their own hotel on the upper levels.

Day 4: Shibuya

  • Meiji Temple
  • Omotesando 
  • Harajuku
  • Shibuya Scramble
  • Shibuya Sky
  • Centre Gai
Nonbei Yokocho

You can explore Shibuya's version of Omoide Yokocho, a less crowded and slightly smaller area of izakaya in Shibuya. While it's not as famous as it's Shinjuku counterpart, I feel like it's almost more enjoyable because it's not as packed with tourists.

Day 5: Shinjuku

  • Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
  • Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
  • Godzilla Head
  • Kabukicho
  • Kabukicho Tower
  • Omoide Yokocho

Day 6: Roppongi

Exterior view of the National Art Center Tokyo on a sunny day, showcasing its distinctive, curved glass walls and modern architectural design.
Photo Credit: Gyro on Canva
National Art Center

One of Japan’s largest art spaces with ever-changing creative exhibitions featuring Clamp, Saint Laurent, and more. The Art Center is one part of the Roppongi Art Triangle, which also consists of the Mori Art Museum and the Suntory Museum of Art in Roppongi. 

Roppongi Hills Mori Tower

Get an incredible view of Tokyo and Tokyo Tower from the 52nd floor of the Mori Tower. The Mori Art Museum is also located here, if you enjoy modern and abstract art and don’t mind seeing two museums in one day. Heck, you might as well try to see the Suntory Museum too if you have the endurance.

Tokyo Tower

Previously the tallest tower in Japan until Tokyo Skytree was built, you can stop by here if you didn’t get a chance to go to any of the other observation decks.

Akasaka

A business and residential district not to be confused with Asakusa, Akasaka is known for it’s extravagant dining and is a great place to try omakase for dinner. Omakase is a Japanese dining experience of sushi, where the menu is left entirely up to the chef’s digression. You’ll find many Michelin star sushi restaurants in this neighborhood.

Roppongi

Aside from art, Roppongi is well known for having a lively nightlife with tons of great izakaya and bars around.

Day 7: Day Trip

Definitely take a day to explore any of the day trip options I mentioned previously. I personally recommend Nikko, as it’s a relaxing break from the hectic city life. 

Extra time in Tokyo?

If you find yourself with a free day in Tokyo, here are some places I'd recommend for a half or full day.

Gotokuji
A collection of lucky cat statues (maneki-neko) at Gotokuji Temple, known as the birthplace of the iconic figurine that brings good fortune.
Gotokuji Temple Photo Credit: Leung Cho Pan on Canva

A unique temple and the origin of the Maneki-Neko (Lucky Cat), Gotokuji is located off the beaten path of Tokyo. You’ll find the shofuku-den, a shrine filled with lucky cats and a stunning photo spot. Make sure to also stop by Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory for totoro-themed cream puffs!

  • Disney Sea
  • Mount Fuji
  • Hakone
  • Nikko
  • Yokohama

How Many Days in Tokyo for a Japan Trip?

At the risk of sounding repetitive, the number of days you should dedicate to visiting Tokyo will depend on how long your trip to Japan will be, and whether it’s your first time in Tokyo or a subsequent visit.

On my first few trips to Japan, I spent around 4-5 days in Tokyo and thought that was just enough.

On my third trip to Tokyo, I didn’t want to spend more than 3 days there, because I was excited to visit other areas of Japan. 

Tokyo Tower illuminated against the evening sky in Japan, with the city skyline stretching out beneath a vibrant sunset of pink and blue hues. The tower's warm lights stand out amidst modern skyscrapers and buildings, creating a stunning contrast that highlights Tokyo's blend of traditional and contemporary charm.
Photo Credit: SeanPavonePhoto

So while it’s really up to you, in general, I think 4-5 days in Tokyo is perfect for a 10-14 day trip to Japan

Tokyo vs. Kyoto: How Many Days in Each?

I love Kyoto, and think splitting your time equally between the two is ideal. Kyoto is very different from Tokyo, and you’ll find beautiful natural landscapes and incredible temples like Kiyomizu-Dera, Golden Pavilion, Arashiyama Monkey Forest, etc. If you want to visit temples and embrace Japan’s traditions and cultures, don’t skimp on your Kyoto days.

If you have a week in Japan, perhaps spend 4 days in Tokyo and 3 days in Kyoto. I wouldn’t do more than 2 cities max with such little time.

If you have approximately 2 weeks in Japan, I assume that you may be spending some time in Osaka as well. Osaka is similar to Tokyo, so I would dedicate 6 days to Tokyo, 5 days to Kyoto, and 3 days to Osaka.

Should You Visit Tokyo Before or After Kyoto/Osaka?

This is kind of a tricky question! I’d say to save Tokyo for last because you’ll probably want to buy a ton of stuff… but Osaka is also a very popular shopping district, and actually is a little cheaper than Tokyo.

A man and woman holding each other outside the orange red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto

Either way, you’ll have to return to Tokyo to fly back home, so you can go either way. I’ve had trips where I visited Tokyo first and have had trips where I saved it for last, and didn’t really see a big difference.

If I had to pick one or the other, maybe save Tokyo for last just so you can enjoy filling your suitcase to the brim at the end. I had a friend go to Tokyo first and feel like she restricted herself because she didn’t want to buy too much stuff in the beginning. 

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Now, where should you stay during your Tokyo trip? I have a dedicated post for the best areas to stay for first-time visitors, so I recommend checking that out for all the details. However, I’ll give you the quick and dirty suggestions here.

Best Areas to Stay for First-Time Visitors

In general, the best areas to stay for first-time visitors will be Shinjuku, Shibuya, Asakusa, and Ginza. I’ve stayed in all of these areas and personally prefer Shinjuku and Shibuya, then Ginza, and lastly Asakusa. If you’re planning on taking a lot of day trips, somewhere around Tokyo Station might suit you best. 

A view of Shinjuku from Gyoen National Park in Tokyo, Japan. Bright autumn foliage surrounds the clear blue sky and the skyscrapers.
National Gyoen Garden in Shinjuku, Tokyo

Asakusa is a bit out of the way from everywhere else, but has the beautiful Sensoji Temple that you can even visit at night, so it’s a good option for those who like a more peaceful area.

You won’t go wrong with any of these places for your first trip, as most of the popular attractions are in these four areas. I wouldn’t stay anywhere too far away, as the train can get very crowded in the afternoons and you don’t want to be standing for an hour after a long day of traveling.  

Best Areas for Families, Couples, and Solo Travelers

Families: Asakusa or Ueno Park

I think families with older folks or young kids would enjoy either staying near Asakusa or Ueno Park (and they’re pretty close to each other too!)

Asakusa is calmer than the rest of Tokyo, but still has a ton of great restaurants and shops around. You can also stroll around Sensoji Temple in the evenings when all the crowds have left. You get the whole garden and temple to yourself to enjoy. 

A vibrant view of Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo, showcasing the iconic red and white two-story structure with traditional architectural details against a clear blue sky. The ornate roof and intricate wooden beams reflect the historic and cultural significance of this popular Buddhist temple. The bright colors and clean lines create a striking contrast, capturing the essence of this iconic landmark.
Photo Credit: Sanga Park

Ueno is even more quiet than Asakusa, and Ueno Park is perfect for walking around and enjoying seasonal flowers in bloom. You can visit Ueno Zoo, rent a boat in Shinobazu Pond, and visit one of the museums nearby. 

Couples: Shibuya

It’s a little hard for me to choose an area that would be best for couples because I think it really depends on your interests. 

I ended up choosing Shibuya because it’s a lively area and is great for the 20-30s crowd, with lots of shops, bars, and restaurants. There are lots of clubs here if you like nightlife, too. 

The Shibuya crossing at night. Large skyscaper buildings are shown with bright screens illuminating the street.
Shibuya Photo Credit: Rmanzanosgarcia on Canva

Your accommodation options are pretty flexible though, so take this with a grain of salt. If you like shopping, Shinjuku/Shibuya/Ginza would be great. For budget options, Nihonbashi near Asakusa could be good, too. 

Solo Travelers: Shinjuku/Shibuya

If you’re a solo traveler, you should definitely stay around Shinjuku or Shibuya! These are the busiest neighborhoods, but there’s so much to do in these areas and I anticipate that you’ll be exploring a ton since you’re following your own schedule. With more people, you’ll also get a lot of opportunities to meet new friends. 

I highly recommend staying in a hostel or capsule hotel to meet other travelers. These budget hotels often have lounges that are a great environment for socializing.

Best Hotels for Every Budget

Here are my personal hotel recommendations based on my previous stays in Tokyo.

Shibuya Hotel Recommendations

👍 Budget: APA Hotel Shibuya Dogenzakaue ($$)

A hotel room in APA Hotel located in Susukino, Sapporo Japan.

I’ve stayed at APA Hotel before and find that they’re worth the value. It’s pretty hard to find cheap accommodations in Shibuya, but APA Hotels are convenient, and provide great amenities and high value while still being affordable. It’s close to Shibuya Station, and the staff are very helpful. 

⭐ Mid-Range: Tokyu Stay Shibuya ($$)

The rooftop terrance of Tokyu Stay Shibuya. There are large glowing cubes, luscious greenery and a beautiful rooftop view.
Tokyu Stay Shibuya
Photo Credit: Expedia

I’ve personally stayed in Tokyu Stay before and loved it. The rooms are clean, there are tons of free amenities, and this location in particular has a rooftop terrace with Tokyo Sky Tree.

💎 Luxury: Shibuya Stream Hotel ($$$)

A twin room in Shibuya Stream Hotel with a classic design. There are floor to ceiling windows overlooking Tokyo city.
A hotel room with a panoramic city view in Shibuya Stream Hotel
Photo Credit: Expedia

This 4-star hotel is located inside Shibuya Stream and is right above the train station. You’ll be within walking distance from Shibuya Sky, with tons of restaurants and shops around. Rooms have stunning views of Tokyo City and Tokyo Tower!

Shinjuku Hotel Recommendations

👍Budget: Hotel Listel Shinjuku ($$)

A hotel room in Hotel Listel Shinjuku, an affordable hotel in the popular Shinjuku district. There are two western beds with black accents, and a side table next to a sunny window.
Hotel Listel Shinjuku
Photo Credit: Expedia

I’m planning to stay at this hotel during my Tokyo trip in a few weeks, so I’ll provide an updated review soon! This affordable hotel is close to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Kabukicho, and is within walking distance of the train station. The rooms are clean and cozy with free amenities.

⭐ Mid-Range: Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nishi-Shinjuku PREMIER ($$)

A hotel room in Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nishi Shinjuku in Tokyo ,Japan. The furnishings are simple and modern, with bright lighting and 3 beds. There is a large window with Shinjuku city in the background.
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nishi Shinjuku
Photo Credit: Expedia

Daiwa Hotel is right in the heart of Shinjuku and features very large rooms with fantastic amenities. It's a 2-star hotel but looks so classy and modern that you could have fooled me! It’s also a quick 5-minute walk to the nearest train station, so you’ll be able to travel all over Tokyo and beyond seamlessly.

💎 Luxury: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku ($$$)

A large Godzilla head right next to Gracery Hotel Shinjuku in Tokyo, Japan.
Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
Photo Credit: Expedia

This famous hotel features the legendary Godzilla Head, and has fun Godzilla-themed rooms with unique special effects! (Although, if you’d like, you can book a normal room too). The rooms have a great view of the Tokyo skyline, with high end amenities.

Ginza Hotel Recommendations

👍 Budget: Hotel Villa Fontaine Tokyo-Kayabacho ($$)

A large hotel room offered at Hotel Villa Fontaine Tokyo - Kayabacho, a three star hotel in Ginza. There are two double beds and an extra twin bed in a large room, with a TV in the corner. The colors are neutral and earthy, with ambient lighting.
Hotel Villa Fontaine Tokyo - Kayabacho
Photo Credit: Expedia

It’s a little bit of a walk to the shops in Ginza, but Hotel Villa is an affordable option around the Ginza area. The rooms are clean and modern, and the hotel is a 5-minute walk to the nearest train station. 

⭐ Mid-Range: MUJI Hotel ($$$)

A hotel room in MUJI Hotel Ginza, with a large comfortable bed and calm, minimalist aesthetic. There is a bookshelf filled with books on the wall.
MUJI Hotel Ginza.
Photo Credit: Agoda

If you’re a MUJI fan, you’ll love their hotel. The hotel emphasizes sleep and comfort and is designed with a neutral, calm, homey feel. You’ll also get to enjoy plenty of free amenities from the brand. Plus, it’s right on top of the MUJI Flagship store so you can shop as much as you want!

💎 Luxury: Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier ($$$$)

The lounge in Mitsui Garden Ginza Premier, a luxurious 4-star hotel in Ginza, Tokyo. The lounge has an incredible view of Tokyo Tower and the Tokyo cityscape at sunset.
Mitsui Garden Ginza Premier
Photo Credit: Expedia

Mitsui Garden Ginza is an opulent 4-star hotel with luxuriously designed rooms all located on the 16th floor and above, granting incredible views of Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Bay.

Rooms have their own private baths, and a delicious breakfast is included. It’s also within walking distance of Tsukiji Fish Market, and close to all the shops in the heart of Ginza. If you're looking to stay somewhere special, then I highly recommend checking this hotel out.

Asakusa Hotel Recommendations

👍 Budget: Plat Hostel Keikyu Asakusa Karin ($)

A double bed room in plat hostel keikyu asakusa karin, a highly rated hostel in Asakusa, Tokyo. There is a double bed with a sink and cups to the side. There is a large window on the back wall.
Plat Hostel Keikyu Asakusa Karin
Photo Credit: Agoda

Plat Hostel is a very affordable hostel that provides private rooms with double beds and bunk beds to accommodate every type of traveler. It’s a short walk to Sensoji Temple, and you really cant beat the price.

⭐ Mid-Range: Richmond Hotel Premier Asakusa ($$)

A hotel room in Richmond Hotel Premier Asakusa International. The room has two beds and warm, relaxing lighting. There is a view of the five-storied pagoda of Sensoji Temple from the window.
Views of Sensoji Temple and Tokyo Skytree from your room in Richmond Hotel Premier Asakusa International.
Photo credit: Expedia

You’ll get to live right next to Sensoji Temple when you stay at Richmond Hotel. It’s 0.1 miles away from the Temple, and a 1-minute walk to the nearest train station. Hotel rooms are relaxing and moody, and include stunning views of the temple and Tokyo Skytree.

💎 Luxury: Prostyle Ryokan Tokyo Asakusa ($$$)

A stunning view of Tokyo Tower from the patio of a twin bed hotel room in Prostyle Ryokan Tokyo Asakusa. Tokyo Tower is lit up in the night, with a large outdoor lounge area and chairs.
The view of Tokyo Tower from one of the twin hotel rooms in Prostyle Ryokan Tokyo Asakusa.
Photo Credit: Expedia

Stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan at Prostyle Ryokan! This stunning property is a 4-star hotel with beautiful Japanese decor and even features private outdoor and indoor onsen to soak in after a long day of traveling.

Is Tokyo Worth Visiting?

Yes, Tokyo is completely worth visiting, and even if you’re not a big city person, it’s worth a visit at least once. There are beautiful temples, tons of shops, incredible restaurants, and great museums to visit. Despite being a busy metropolis, there are also scenic parks that provide a restful break with amazing views.

The train system is extremely convenient and quick, so you’ll be able to navigate through the city without any problems. It’s also a great way to familiarize yourself with Japanese culture and customs. Once you start to explore more rural areas in Japan in the future, you’ll be well accustomed to Japanese norms after a few days in the city.

You’ll fly in and out of Japan using either Narita or Haneda Airport anyway, so why not spend a few days exploring Tokyo?

Tokyo Trip Planning FAQs

Final Thoughts: How Many Days in Tokyo?

There you have it, my ~slightly biased~ thoughts on how many days you should allocate to Tokyo! I say slightly biased because it’s influenced by my personal trips and experiences, but that’s why you’re reading my post… so that’s not a bad thing… right?

Hopefully this gives you a better idea of how you should split your days for your Japan trip. If I missed anything, let me know how many days you’re going to spend in Japan and if you need any help! I’m always down to help with your Japan travel planning. You can reach me by leaving a comment or hitting me up at audrey@getlostinjapan.com.

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