Tokyo Travel Plan: Spend 4 Days Exploring Top Attractions

This 4-day Tokyo plan covers the essentials—shrines, parks, city views, and shopping. Each day focuses on one area so you’re not zigzagging across the city. This plan also includes alternative spots to swap based on your interests. Use this itinerary as a starting point for your trip and adjust it as you like.

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Tokyo Travel Tips

• Use a Suica or Pasmo card: These are rechargeable travel cards that simplify paying for train and bus fares, as well as purchases at many convenience stores and vending machines.

• Start your day early: Popular attractions can get crowded; arriving before 8 AM can offer a more relaxed experience.

• Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking as you explore Tokyo. Comfortable footwear will make your trip much more enjoyable.

• Convenience stores: These stores offer plenty of affordable and tasty snacks, drinks, and even daily necessities. They are a traveler's best friend in Japan.

• Read Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Around Tokyo

Day 1 Asakusa & Tokyo Skytree

Morning: Senso-ji Temple + Nakamise Street

Key Activities

• Visit Senso-ji Temple, one of Tokyo's oldest and most visited temples.

• Explore Nakamise Street for traditional souvenirs and street snacks.

Start Day 1 at Senso-ji, one of Tokyo’s cultural landmarks. It is a popular spot for both tourists and locals. Visitors often come to participate in traditional rituals, such as purification at the temple’s water fountain. The temple is known for its striking architecture, including the large main hall and the towering pagoda.

Nakamise Street is a shopping street that leads up to Senso-ji Temple. It’s a great spot to pick up souvenirs, traditional snacks, and handcrafted goods. The street is lined with over 50 shops, so plan to spend some time browsing the unique items and enjoying local treats.

Afternoon: Tokyo Skytree + Tokyo Solamachi

Key Activities

• Visit Tokyo Skytree's observation decks for panoramic Tokyo views.

• Explore Tokyo Solamachi's diverse shopping complex at the Skytree's base.

Tokyo Skytree is one of the tallest towers in the world, offering panoramic views of Tokyo. Visitors often plan to visit either during the day for clear city views or at night for the city lights. But be prepared for crowds. It is recommended purchasing tickets online in advance to avoid lines.

After you’ve taken in the views, spend some time at Tokyo Solamachi, the shopping complex at the base of the Skytree. The mall has over 300 shops, ranging from fashion to electronics. There are also restaurants and cafes, making it a good spot to relax and grab a bite.

Evening: Sumida Park

Key Activities

• Relaxing walk through Sumida Park near Tokyo Skytree.

For the evening, take a relaxing walk through Sumida Park, located just a short walk from Tokyo Skytree. The park stretches along the Sumida River. If you’re visiting in spring, you’ll catch beautiful cherry blossoms, making it a perfect spot for photos. The park also has a few small shrines and is often less crowded than other tourist-heavy areas.

Other Nearby Options

• Sumida Aquarium: Located inside Tokyo Skytree Town, While not huge, the aquarium is well-designed and can be easily explored in about an hour.

• Tokyo Cruise (Sumida River): You can board a Tokyo Cruise boat near Asakusa and ride it down the Sumida River toward Odaiba or Hamarikyu. The boats run regularly, and you can buy tickets on-site.

Day 2 Ueno

Morning - Afternoon: Ueno Park, Zoo, and Museums

Key Activities

• Enjoy walking and relaxing in the large public park.

• Visit the Ueno Zoo, known for its pandas and other diverse animal exhibits.

• Explore various museums like the Tokyo National Museum, housing an extensive collection of Japanese artifacts and art.

Ueno Park is one of Tokyo’s largest public parks with multiple activities in one spot. It is especially popular in spring for cherry blossom viewing, but you can visit year-round. There are a few ponds, including Shinobazu Pond, where you can rent a boat. Bring drinks and snacks and find a good spot to rest and enjoy the greenery.

Inside the park, you’ll find Ueno Zoo and several major museums. The zoo is compact but known for its pandas and a variety of other animals. The museums cover a wide range of subjects, from art to science. The Tokyo National Museum and the National Museum of Nature and Science, featuring impressive dinosaur skeletons and scientific exhibits, are among the most visited. You don’t need to do it all—just pick what fits your interests and energy.

Evening: Ameyoko Market

Key Activities

• Explore food stalls offering various snacks, seafood, and other goods.

• Experience a lively, crowded market atmosphere in the evening.

Ameyoko Market, right next to Ueno Station, is a lively spot for early evening browsing. The narrow street is packed with stalls selling street food, dried goods, cosmetics, and more. Be sure to check out tasty snacks like takoyaki (octopus balls) and various grilled skewers. Most shops close by 7-8 PM, so go before then. It can get crowded and loud, so skip it if you prefer quiet places but a solid pick for anyone who enjoys local markets.

Other Nearby Options

• National Museum of Western Art: If you're into European art, this compact museum is a short walk from Ueno Station and focuses on works by artists like Monet, Rodin, and Van Gogh.

• Yanaka Ginza: A small retro-style shopping street is a few stops from Ueno. It’s known for a more local, old-town vibe with snack stands, mom-and-pop shops.

Day 3 West Tokyo

Morning: Meiji Jingu Shrine + Takeshita Street

Key Activities

• Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine in a large wooded park.

• Explore Takeshita Street with snack stands and fashion shops.

Meiji Jingu Shrine is a peaceful spot right next to the busy Harajuku. The walk to the shrine, which is surrounded by forest, makes it feel separate from the city. You can follow the proper steps to make a Shinto offering (bow, toss a coin, clap, and bow again), write a wish on a wooden plaque, and buy an omamori (good luck charm) from the counter near the main hall.

Takeshita Street is not far from the shrine. It is a short but packed pedestrian street that’s popular for its colorful shops, youth fashion, and sweet snacks. You don’t need a long visit here. Just walk through, check out a few stores, maybe try something like a crepe or rainbow cotton candy.

Afternoon: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Key Activities

• Stroll through a mix of Japanese, English, and French-style gardens.

• Visit the greenhouse or check out café near the entrance.

Shinjuku Gyoen is a large garden that’s easily accessible from the Shinjuku area. The layout of the park includes traditional Japanese gardens, French-style gardens, and wide lawns where you can sit and take a break. There’s a greenhouse inside if you’re into plants, and a small café near the main entrance for snacks or coffee. The entry fee is around ¥500, and the park is closed around 4:30 PM.

Evening: Shibuya

Key Activities

• Take a quick stop at the Shibuya Crossing.

• Shop at major centers like Shibuya PARCO, Hikarie, or Shibuya 109.

• Explore Shibuya’s nightlife from izakayas to lounges or rooftop bars.

Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s busiest neighborhoods. The Shibuya Crossing is the most photographed spot with neon lights, towering screens, and crowded streets. From there you can explore the shopping centers like Shibuya PARCO, which features a blend of fashion boutiques, art spaces, and restaurants; Hikarie, a sophisticated complex with department stores and cultural venues; or Shibuya 109, a landmark destination for trendy youth fashion.

For nightlife, Shibuya offers various bars and clubs in the Dogenzaka area, known for its diverse options, ranging from casual izakayas where you can enjoy drinks and small dishes to stylish lounges and bars with rooftop views.

Other Nearby Options

• Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho: This narrow alley is packed with small, local eateries serving yakitori, ramen, and other Japanese street food. It's perfect if you're in the mood for authentic, casual dining in a lively atmosphere.

• Roppongi: Known for its nightlife, Roppongi offers a mix of bars, international restaurants, and cultural spots like the Mori Art Museum. It’s a go-to for those looking to explore Tokyo after dark.

Day 4 Shopping

Morning: Imperial Palace East Garden

Key Activities

• Walk through landscaped gardens with ponds, stone paths, and peaceful green spaces.

• Explore historical castle and monuments within the garden.

• Visit nearby attractions like the National Diet Building or the Marunouchi district.

The Imperial Palace itself isn’t open to the public, but you can visit the East Garden, which is a section of the inner palace grounds that’s free to enter. The gardens feature beautiful landscapes, including ponds, pathways, and historical remnants of the palace grounds. If you have time, consider exploring nearby spots like the National Diet Building, with its distinctive architectural design, or the Marunouchi district, a central area for business and finance in Tokyo.

Afternoon: Akihabara

Key Activities

• Visit major electronics stores and niche shops selling gadgets, collectibles, and manga.

• Check out themed cafes for unique experiences like anime-themed or maid cafes popular in the area.

Akihabara is the go-to spot for electronics, gaming, and anime culture. You’ll find multi-level stores selling things from tech gadgets, figures, merchandise, to retro video games. There are also themed cafés, like maid cafés or anime cafés, though they’re more about the experience than the food. It’s fairly easy to navigate. The area offers a mix of big-name brands and smaller, independent shops.

Evening: Ginza

Key Activities

• Shop luxury brands and department stores, from international labels to local designers.

• Have a nice meal at one of Ginza’s restaurants or cafes.

• Walk around at night to experience Ginza’s elegant vibe.

Ginza is Tokyo’s shopping district, known for its luxury boutiques, department stores, and fine dining. But you don’t need to be shopping for luxury goods to enjoy it—just walking around the area and enjoying the elegant vibe. You can plan a memorable dinner here, as Ginza offers a wide range of culinary experiences, from Michelin-starred sushi restaurants to stylish cafes and international cuisine.

Other Nearby Options

• Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum: Located in Marunouchi, the museum blends classic architecture with modern art exhibitions, primarily focused on Western art from the 19th and 20th centuries.

• Hibiya park: A large, peaceful green space near Ginza. It’s a great spot to unwind with its ponds, walking paths, and beautiful gardens. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or enjoy a picnic, Hibiya Park offers a nice escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

More Places to Visit

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: Located in Shinjuku, the building offers stunning panoramic views of the city from its free observation decks. You can spot landmarks like Mount Fuji and the Tokyo Skytree on clear days.

Odaiba: A futuristic entertainment district on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. It features shopping malls, museums, and attractions like the giant Gundam statue and teamLab Borderless.

Tokyo Tower: One of the Tokyo's iconic landmarks. It offers observation decks with great city views. Visitors can also explore the nearby Zojoji Temple or visit the aquarium located on the lower levels.

Tokyo Disneyland: Located just outside Tokyo in Urayasu, Tokyo Disneyland is a must-visit for Disney fans. It’s a classic theme park with attractions for all ages, from thrilling rides to parades. A short train ride from central Tokyo makes it easily accessible for a full day of fun.

teamLab Planets TOKYO: An immersive art experience in Toyosu that lets visitors walk through interactive digital art. You’ll encounter water-filled rooms and mesmerizing light displays, making it a unique sensory experience.

Where to stay in Tokyo

Tokyo Station

• Why here: Central transportation hub, many shops and restaurants.

• What to expect: Primarily a business district, limited night life.

• Ideal for: Travelers prioritizing transit connections.

Shibuya

• Why here: Diverse shopping options, lively night life.

• What to expect: Often crowded.

• Ideal for: Travelers interested in shopping, fashion, and night life.

Shinjuku

• Why here: Major transportation hub, shopping centers, and entertainment district.

• What to expect: Can be very crowded.

• Ideal for: Travelers seeking non-stop activities with convenient transit.

Asakusa

• Why here: Street markets, affordable accommodations.

• What to expect: Less central, fewer late-night activities compare to other districts.

• Ideal for: Budget travelers, culture enthusiasts, and a more relaxed pace.

FAQs Traveling to Japan

Conclusion

This itinerary offers a solid starting point for exploring Tokyo, with a mix of must-see landmarks and some lesser-known spots. Feel free to adjust based on your interests, whether that’s delving into Tokyo’s vibrant neighborhoods, trying local food, or simply soaking in the city’s unique vibe. Enjoy planning and exploring!

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