72 Hours in Tokyo: A Perfect 3-Day Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

Written By Matthew Cogossi

Godzilla over Tokyo

If shrines, sushi, futuristic technology, and sky-high views sound like your next adventure— then here’s how to experience the very best of Tokyo in just three unforgettable days.

Tokyo has been on our bucket list for years and is consistently rated one of the best destinations for travelers. The amazing thing about Tokyo is it is a thrilling city of contrasts—where centuries-old temples share sidewalks with cutting-edge digital art, and peaceful gardens exist just steps from neon-lit high rises. Tokyo makes both a great primary destination or a stop over destination, either way you’ll have an amazing time getting to know the largest city in the world. With only 72 hours, you’ll want to dive into both sides of Tokyo: the old and the new, the energetic and the serene. This 3-day itinerary balances must-see highlights, local gems, and tasty stops, with travel tips to help you navigate the city with confidence. Tokyo easily became one of our favorite big cities we have visited, the city is huge (and feels big), but the different districts (wards) are so distinct that you feel like you are in a different mini-city within the city. This makes exploring Tokyo such an exciting experience because you can find unique and different experiences everywhere you go. After visiting Tokyo, the energy will stick with you long after. We hope you enjoy exploring Tokyo as much as we did!

Why Visit Tokyo

Tokyo is a city that blends the ultramodern with deep tradition. One moment you’ll be gazing at neon-lit skyscrapers and the next you’ll stumble upon a centuries-old shrine. You truly can find it all here—Michelin-starred sushi restaurants and tiny ramen shops, luxury shopping and quirky themed cafés, serene gardens and bustling crosswalks. We absolutely loved the people, the culture, and the history of Tokyo. Whether you’re into food, culture, shopping, or just soaking in the energy of one of the world’s most dynamic capitals, Tokyo delivers. While Tokyo can feel overwhelming at first, we found everyone to be very friendly and even when we got turned around and lost, someone was always willing to help us find where we were going. This really speaks to the spirit of Tokyo and why we felt so welcomed exploring this beautiful city.

A view of the traditional and the new at the Imperial Palace

Before You Go: Helpful Tips for Visiting Tokyo

Here’s what to know before stepping foot in Japan’s vibrant capital.

Getting Around

  • Trains and subways are the way to go. Get a Suica or PASMO card at the airport and just tap to ride. You can also download the card right to your iPhone ahead of time. We highly recommend downloading and putting money on your digital card before arriving. Check out our Essential Apps blog post for a walk through on setting up your SUICA card!

  • Google Maps works great for public transit (also be sure to download offline maps!). Also,download Japan Travel by Navitime for even smoother transfers. Another great option is CityMapper which can help you map out your route around the city - and ensure you are heading on the correct subway!

  • Taxis are clean and safe but expensive, so plan accordingly. Uber or DiDi can be handy late at night or if you prefer a more direct route home. We found Ubers to be safe and abundant, but expect to a pay premium.

Weather & What to Pack

  • Spring (March–May): This is one if not the most popular time to visit to see the beautiful Cherry blossoms! Be sure to pack layers and a rain jacket.

  • Summer: This time of year can be hot and humid—pack breathable clothing and a fan!

  • Fall: Another really popular time to visit to see the fall foliage. The weather is pleasant and the scenery is colorful, perfect for gardens.

  • Winter: This time of year can be cold but with clear skies. Be sure to layer up!

Money, SIM Cards & Internet

  • Japan is still a cash-forward society. Use your card at convenience stores and major hotels, but carry yen for small shops and restaurants.

  • Rent a Pocket WiFi or install an Airalo eSIM (feel free to use our discount code: MATTHE6398) for easy connection.

  • ATMs at 7-Eleven and Japan Post are the most reliable for foreign cards. We had to make a few stops at 7-Elevent to pull out yen at the ATM and we found it safe and easy.

Cultural Etiquette

A few quick tips (be sure to check out our first timers guide for even more tips)!

  • No tipping. It's not expected and can even be considered rude.

  • Be polite, quiet on public transit, and respectful of space - do not eat on the subway and be sure to carry your backpack on the front of your body.

  • Keep your trash—bins are rare! Convenience stores usually have some.

  • Don’t eat while walking. It's frowned upon except in specific street food areas.

Pro Travel Hints

  • Book TeamLab (you can book tickets here), restaurants, and food tours in advance—spots fill up!

  • Use luggage forwarding services to travel light between cities. Make sure to book a day in advance if you can as there are cut off times for forwarding luggage.

  • Learn a few basic phrases or download Google Translate to bridge the language gap.

3-D Cat Billboard in Shinjuku

Best Time to Visit Tokyo

Cherry Blossoms at the Imperial Palace grounds

Tokyo is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are spring (March–May) when cherry blossoms are in bloom, and autumn/fall (September–November) when the city glows with red and golden foliage. Summer brings lively festivals but also high heat and humidity, while winter is cold but crisp and less crowded, making it perfect for travelers who prefer quieter streets and seasonal illuminations. We visited in mid-March and our first night in Tokyo we saw snow flurries! It was a really cool experience, but boy was it cold at night. If you are visiting in early Spring be prepared for variable weather! Despite the unpredictable weather, one of the best things about Tokyo is that you will find something fun to do no matter the weather or time of year!

How Long Should I Stay in Tokyo?

We recommend at least 3 days in Tokyo to see the highlights without feeling rushed. With 72 hours, you can explore iconic neighborhoods like Shibuya and Shinjuku, enjoy historic Asakusa, and still make time for world-class dining and shopping. If you have more time, 5–7 days allows you to dive deeper into Tokyo’s culture and take multiple day trips. If it is your first time to Japan we would recommend that you focus on one or two major cities and regions, so you can really take the time to explore and appreciate the city. If you are planning on doing a “quick trip to Tokyo”, we would recommend that you at least spend 3 days. One of the best things about Tokyo is that you can spend days exploring one small region and find some amazing places from animal cafes (do your research before you go!) to a bar that looks like it was transported from Portland, Oregon. One thing to know about Tokyo is that it is BIG and if you are planning on traveling all across Tokyo in three days, you will be spending a lot of time on public transit. 3 Days will give you enough time to hit the major highlights, but consider longer.

View outside of Tokyo’s main train station (Tokyo Station)

If you are short on time or prefer a guided experience your first day, then check out this full day sightseeing tour that hits the major sights around Tokyo.

Weather in Tokyo & What to Pack

Tokyo is a city where you’ll spend long days on your feet — whether you’re weaving through neon-lit streets, strolling temple grounds, or hopping between subway stations. Packing smart for the season can make your trip much more enjoyable while also making you feel comfortable. When we were visiting Tokyo in March layers were the name of the game along with comfortable walking shoes, as well as a few city essentials to make navigating through Tokyo a breeze. Below is a recommended packing list by season:

Spring (March–May) 🌸

This is one of the absolute best time to visit Tokyo! Cherry blossom season gives Tokyo a colorful pop of color and really electrifies its numerous parks — but the weather can swing from cool mornings to warm afternoons. You’ll want to be prepared for a wide variety of weather. Pack:

Cherry Blossoms

Summer (June–August) ☀️

Hot, humid, and often rainy — Tokyo summers can be intense. Pack:

  • Breathable, quick-dry clothing to stay cool while exploring Harajuku or Odaiba.

  • A quick-dry travel towel for those sticky afternoons — and can be a lifesaver after climbing Tokyo Skytree.

  • A refillable water bottle (Tokyo tap water is safe to drink). We like this collapsible option that fits easily in a small day bag.

Fall (September–November) 🍂

One of the best times to visit Tokyo! Crisp air, beautiful autumn leaves, and comfortable temps. Pack:

Winter (December–February) ❄️

Tokyo winters are cold but clear, with fewer crowds — perfect for sightseeing. Pack:

Year-Round Tokyo Essentials 🗼

  • A good travel backpack that gives you the space to pack and travel with ease. We both really like this one that fits a ton and has plenty of compartments to store your travel essentials.

  • We love our Samsonite luggage. We’ve had so many issues with fabric bags ripping or snagging over the years that we switched to the hard cover bags and have had no issues!

  • Ash swears by this small packable hair straightener

  • A luggage scale — Tokyo shopping is irresistible, and this helps avoid overweight fees at Narita or Haneda.

  • A good set of packing cubes can really help you stay organized - we really like these packing cubes. With Tokyo hotels being small, these keep everything organized and space-efficient.

  • Apple Air Tags for checked luggage — Narita is massive, and tracking your bag gives peace of mind.

  • Compact travel umbrella – Fits in your daypack and handles Japanese drizzle

If you’re building a longer Japan itinerary, check out our First-Timer’s Guide to Japan for tips on trains, etiquette, and cultural dos & don’ts.

Top Things to Do in Tokyo in 3 Days

View of Tokyo SkyTree

If you only have 72 hours, here are the can’t-miss highlights:

  • Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue – Experience the world’s busiest intersection - you can also find quite a few cafes in the area that will give you that great opportunity to watch as hundreds of people cross. Be sure to arrive early through because the cafes can fill up quickly.

  • Asakusa & Sensō-ji Temple – Both of these temples offer a glimpse into Tokyo’s history.

  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – These gardens are perfect for cherry blossom viewing and a peaceful escape in the city.

  • Tsukiji Outer Market – If you are looking for fresh sushi and Japanese street food - you have to check out this market.

  • Akihabara – This area is an Anime, gaming, and electronics heaven.

  • Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower – For those amazing panoramic city views.

  • Meiji Shrine – A serene Shinto shrine in the heart of the city.

  • teamLabs Planets - If you are looking for one museum to do while in the city, make it this one, an interactive art museum and sensory playground.

  • Ginza - Wander around one of the most iconic and cool districts in Tokyo, full of great food, bars, and shopping.

Day 1: Tokyo’s Classic Landmarks & Riverside Views

Day 01 is all about getting the lay of the land after your arrival in Tokyo. If you are like us, you will probably arrive into Tokyo in the late afternoon or early evening and will need to take the Narita Express from Narita airport to downtown Tokyo. Expect this trip to take anywhere from an hour to an hour and half depending on where you are staying in Tokyo. Plan to use Day 0 (your first official day) to check into your accommodation, grab dinner near your hotel, and get over the jet lag. For your first full day (or if you arrive early in the morning you can drop off your bags and immediately start exploring), we recommend waking up early to find breakfast and lace up your walking shoes to start exploring!

Morning

  • Imperial Palace & East Gardens
    Make your way over to the Imperial Palace and stroll past stone bridges and manicured gardens at Japan’s historic center of power. Take in the beautiful cherry blossoms (if you are there during Cherry blossom season), and enjoy the imperial castle situated right in the middle of Tokyo.

  • Kaminari-mon Gate & Nakamise-dori Street (Asakusa)
    After wandering around the Imperial Palace, take the Tokyo Metro about 20 minutes to one of the coolest shopping streets in Tokyo, Nakamise-dori street. First, take some pictures and enjoy the beautiful Kaminari-mon Gate. Walk beneath the giant red lantern, then explore one of Tokyo’s oldest shopping streets—perfect for souvenirs and street food lunch (try melonpan, ningyo-yaki, and rice crackers). This is a great place to try a variety of Japanese street food - just remember that you should only eat in designated eating areas, so be mindful!

Afternoon

  • Senso-ji Temple
    After enjoying some delicious street food, walk to the end of Nakamise-dori Street to Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. First, be sure to snap photos of the five-story pagoda and take in the incense-swirled energy. Then, take some time to explore this beautiful temple and the beautiful temple grounds.

  • Tokyo Skytree
    Next, head over to the towering Tokyo Skytree. This is a great place to admire the stunning city views from one of the world’s tallest towers. We were amazed at how vast Tokyo is while observing from the top of the Skytree. Be sure to book tickets in advance, especially for sunset!

  • Sumida River Walk
    After enjoying the amazing views at Tokyo Skytree, take a relaxing riverside stroll along the promenade linking Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree, with great photo ops and places to rest.

  • Grab dinner near Sumida City

    After a long day of exploring, grab dinner at one of the many restaurants around Sumida City (right near the Tokyo Skytree). If you are interested in a fusion restaurant, we recommend checking out SRY+ IZAKAYA French Italian Creation for some delicious French inspired dishes.

If you are short on time or prefer a guided experience your first day, then check out this full day sightseeing tour that hits the major sights around Tokyo.

Day 2: Art, Culture & Nightlife Vibes

Now that you have had an opportunity to explore a very small part of what Tokyo has to offer, it’s time to explore one of Tokyo’s coolest neighborhoods and then enjoy a museum or two. This is a great itinerary for a rainy or drizzly day as well. After grabbing breakfast at your accommodation or stopping at a cafe, it’s time to get out and experience Tokyo!

Morning

  • Ginza Neighborhood
    This neighborhood is chic and stylish and was one of our favorites to visit. Start your day browsing high-end boutiques, quirky department stores like Itoya (for Japanese stationery!), and cozy cafés. Take some time to wander around and enjoy this district.

  • Lunch Suggestion: Try a sushi set or kaiseki-style meal in one of Ginza’s quieter backstreets. After lunch, jump on the bus from Ginza to Shin-Toyosu (about a 20 minute ride) to head to TeamLab Planets.

Afternoon

  • TeamLab Planets Tokyo (Toyosu)
    This was one of the highlights of our trip! If you haven’t heard about TeamLab Planets, imagine being inside of an interactive art exhibit, where you can interact with the various artwork themes (this is also a great place to take kids!) Walk barefoot through immersive, interactive digital art exhibits, where you will walk through ponds and rivers, light displays, and living gardens. We highly recommend that you book ahead! Honestly, it is something you just need to experience.

  • Tokyo National Museum (Ueno)
    After exploring TeamLab Planets, take public transit back across Tokyo (about 45 minutes) to your next stop at Ueno Park and explore Japan’s rich cultural past, including samurai armor and Edo-period art. Tokyo’s National Museum is a great way to see and experience the history of Japan through its various art and cultural exhibits.

Evening

  • Food Tour in Shinjuku or Yurakucho
    This was another one of our favorite experiences! A guided Tokyo food tour is the best way to sample izakaya dishes, yakitori, and local drinks with expert commentary. Our tour guide was fantastic and we really enjoyed learning about all of the different types and styles of foods in Japan. This was also a great opportunity to try dishes we most likely would not have tried otherwise.

  • Shinjuku Golden Gai
    Cap the night in this alleyway of tiny, themed bars. Each bar seats about 6 people and has its own quirky personality, making this a really unique place to enjoy drinks!

Day 3: Iconic Crossings, Craft Beer & Serene Gardens

This day is about hitting more of the highlights in Tokyo while also exploring some more off the beaten path areas.

Morning

  • Shibuya Crossing
    This is THE iconic crossing in Tokyo and is well worth a trip to watch the energy and the crowds as they cross this massive intersection. We recommend heading here early to beat the crowds. Head to Shibuya Sky or Starbucks for a bird’s-eye view of this iconic intersection. These cafes can fill up fast, so head here first thing in the morning. Grab a coffee and enjoy the people watching!

  • Explore Shibuya
    Next, wander through Center Gai, Shibuya 109, and local boutiques. Shibuya has plenty of shops for every taste from high end to smaller discount stores. After shopping grab a bubble tea or try a trendy café. If shopping isn’t your thing, you can also check out one of the numerous animal cafes such as the numerous cat cafes or the owl cafe (make sure you do your research before going), check out the nearby Nezu Museum and gardens for another beautiful art museum, or you can wander the Yoyogi park.

Afternoon

  • Yebisu Brewery Museum (Ebisu Garden Place)
    If you enjoy beer, we highly recommend the Yebisu Brewery Museum! This was a hidden gem for us. The complex is beautiful and modern and gives you an opportunity to learn about Japan’s beer heritage and enjoy a tasting flight in a sleek, laid-back setting.

  • Meiji Jingu Shrine
    Just steps from bustling Harajuku, this peaceful forested shrine honors Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken. This is a beautiful shrine to explore. It is tucked away in the woods, right in the middle of Tokyo. It is a really great place to escape from the busy city and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the shrine.

Evening

  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    End your trip with a stroll through one of Tokyo’s most beautiful parks—especially breathtaking during cherry blossom or fall foliage seasons.

  • Dinner

    After a long day of exploring, a nice bowl of ramen always warms the soul. We recommend eating at Afuri Karakurenai Harajuku in Shibuya for a great last dinner in Tokyo!

Can’t Miss Day Trips from Tokyo

Another perk of Tokyo’s is how easy it is to take day trips. Thanks to the Shinkansen (bullet train), you can be in another world in under an hour. While you can spend days just exploring around Tokyo, there are some amazing places to see within a few hours drive (or train ride). Here are a few of our top picks:

  • Nikko – Temples, shrines, and natural beauty.

  • Hakone – Famous for hot springs, Lake Ashi, and Mt. Fuji views. We visited Hakone for two days and had an amazing time! If you are short on time, you can also opt for a day trip to this beautiful hot spring region.

  • Kamakura – Coastal town with the iconic Great Buddha.

  • Yokohama – Trendy port city with great food and shopping.

  • Mt. Fuji (Fuji Five Lakes area) – For hiking, lakeside views, and unforgettable photography.

Travel Tip: You can book most of these day trips with GetYourGuide or Viator for added convenience. From guided tours to private transport, booking in advance means less stress and more time to enjoy the adventure.

Riding the pirate ship in Hakone

Other Ideas in Tokyo If You Have Extra Time

  • Odaiba: Visit the life-size Gundam, digital art museums, or ride the Ferris wheel.

  • Kichijoji & Inokashira Park: A local favorite with a relaxed vibe.

  • Ghibli Museum (Mitaka): A must for animation lovers—tickets sell out fast!

  • Day trips: Consider Kamakura, Nikko, or Yokohama if you want to escape the city which you can do on your own or check out the links above to book a day tour!

Where to Stay in Tokyo

  • We stayed in two different hotels in two different areas:

    • The Gate Hotel - this hotel was located in one of the best districts in Tokyo, right in Ginza. The rooms are surprisingly spacious for Tokyo with enough room to spread out. There is also a fantastic bar and lounge area to relax. Close to shopping, bars, restaurants, and the subway, we really enjoyed this hotel and its location!

    • Mitsui Garden Hotel Jingugaien Tokyo Premier - this hotel is located near Shinjuku and is right next to the Japan National Stadium. If you are looking for a quieter area that is still close to many of the main attractions this hotel is a great option. The rooms are spacious and our balcony overlooking the city was absolutely amazing. This hotel is a little further out and there aren’t a whole lot of restaurants right nearby, but this is one of the quieter areas of Tokyo if you are worried about noise. Overall, this is a great choice!

View from the Mitsui Garden over downtown Tokyo

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Tokyo:

  • Shinjuku: Central, lively, and great for first-time visitors.

  • Shibuya: Trendy and youthful—perfect if you love nightlife and shopping.

  • Asakusa: More traditional, with easy access to temples and street food.

  • Ginza: Upscale and quieter at night, ideal for foodies and shoppers.

What to Eat While in Tokyo

  • Ramen: Head to Ichiran, Ippudo, or Afuri.

  • Sushi: Try Kyubey, Sushi Daiwa, or conveyor belt sushi at Sushiro.

  • Izakaya: Check out Torikizoku, Omoide Yokocho, or spots around Yurakucho.

  • Desserts: Tokyo Banana, taiyaki (our favorite!) matcha soft serve, melonpan, and mochi (especially strawberry mochi)!

Final Thoughts

Tokyo is one of those cities you’ll want to return to again and again. We split up our time in Tokyo by spending a day and a half in Tokyo at the beginning of our trip and then spending a day and half on the back end of our trip. When we returned to Tokyo the second time, it was amazing how it felt like we were coming back home. Tokyo is one of those cities that pulls you in and stays with you. This itinerary gives you a taste of everything—from cultural depth to modern wonder, with time for quiet moments and spontaneous exploration. Whether it's your first visit or your fifth, there’s always more to discover. We hope you enjoy exploring Tokyo as much as we did!

Godzilla appears in Tokyo!

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Matthew Cogossi
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