Trip video
Full itinerary — 5 days
Shinjuku — arrival and first neons
Arrive via Narita or Haneda Express. Drop your bags and explore Shinjuku at night: Kabukicho, Golden Gai (the tiny bar district) and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a free night view of the city.
Harajuku, Shibuya and Roppongi
Morning at Meiji Jingu — a shrine inside a forest in the middle of Tokyo. Takeshita Street for Japanese pop culture. Afternoon: Shibuya Crossing (the world's busiest). Evening in Roppongi for nightlife.
Asakusa and Ueno
Tokyo's most historic side. Sensoji — the city's oldest temple. Nakamise Market for souvenirs. Afternoon: Ueno Park with museums and the Zoo. Dinner at a local ramen restaurant near Asakusa.
Akihabara and Ginza
Akihabara — the electronics and anime district, a unique experience even if you're not a fan. Afternoon in Ginza to see luxury Tokyo. TeamLab Planets in Toyosu — one of the most impressive digital art exhibitions in the world (book in advance).
Odaiba and departure
Artificial island in Tokyo Bay. Toyosu Market (world's largest fish market), DigiLab museum and views of Tokyo Tower and Mount Fuji on a clear day. Return to airport via Narita or Haneda Express.
Personal tips
IC Card (Suica)
Get a Suica Card at the airport. Works for metro, buses, trains and even convenience stores. Saves time and money — essential in Tokyo.
Pocket Wi-Fi
Book online before you arrive and pick up at the airport. Fast connection and crucial for Google Maps on the metro. Costs ~¥600/day.
Where to eat
Ramen and kaiten-zushi (conveyor belt sushi) restaurants are cheap and excellent. Avoid places with photo menus outside Shinjuku — usually tourist traps.
Convenience stores
7-Eleven, Lawson and FamilyMart are miracles. Good, cheap hot food 24/7. Onigiri (rice balls) are my favourite travel food.
Budget
¥10,000–15,000/day including transport, food and attractions. Tokyo is surprisingly affordable for a first-world capital.
Mistake I made
I didn't book TeamLab in advance and was turned away at the door. Book at least 2 weeks ahead — tickets sell out fast.