Tokyo in Three: Strolls, Sights & Small Wonders
Each day assumes walking between sites and returning to a central hotel in Tokyo. Timings are approximate and allow for relaxed pacing.
- Packing Tips:
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and a light rain jacket.
- Portable charger and a refillable water bottle.
- Money & Payments:
- Carry some cash (¥). Get a Suica/Pasmo card for convenience.
- Safety Tips:
- Tokyo is safe; remain aware in crowded spots and keep belongings zipped.
- Cultural Tips:
- Remove shoes where indicated and observe shrine etiquette.
- Weather & Timing:
- Mornings are cooler and less crowded; plan popular sites early.
Tokyo in Three: Strolls, Sights & Small Wonders
A slow, sensory three-day story through Tokyo: morning temples and markets, afternoons of neighborhoods and museums, evenings for skyline views and izakaya tasting. Expect 5–10 km walking days with frequent breaks—ample time to linger, photograph, and pop into cafés.
Day 1 — Classic Tokyo: Asakusa + Ueno
Start in historic Asakusa with Senso-ji’s lanterns and Nakamise stalls, then stroll north toward Ueno Park’s museums and relaxed green space. Evening near Ameyoko for casual street food.
- Why this works: compact historic sights clustered close together make for an easy walking loop. Lots of shaded streets and cafés for rest.
Day 2 — Modern Midtown: Ginza, Tsukiji & Imperial Palace East Gardens
A morning at the former fish market area (Tsukiji Outer Market) for seafood snacks, then a leisurely walk to Ginza for window shopping and tea. Afternoon at the Imperial Palace East Gardens and Marunouchi for classic city promenades. End with rooftop or tower views around Tokyo Station or Ginza.
- Why this works: flat, walkable blocks, many indoor options if it rains; ideal for food, design, and calm park time.
Day 3 — Youthful Energy: Shibuya, Harajuku & Meiji Shrine
Begin with Meiji Shrine’s forested approach, explore Harajuku’s Takeshita Street for quirky shops, then cross through to Omotesando’s architecture and cafés. Finish at Shibuya Crossing and a final city-view evening.
- Why this works: concentrated neighborhoods with iconic photo ops. Lots of cafés and people-watching spots.
Evening Suggestions (any night)
- Izakaya crawl in Ebisu or Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho for short walks between spots.
- Rooftop drinks in Ginza or Shibuya for skyline views.
Practical Tips
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Packing Tips:
- Comfortable walking shoes, a lightweight rain jacket, small daypack.
- A reusable water bottle (convenience stores refillable) and portable phone charger.
-
Money & Payments:
- Carry some cash (¥) for small stalls and shrines; major spots accept cards and IC transit cards (Suica/Pasmo) are handy for convenience stores and some taxis.
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Safety & Health:
- Tokyo is very safe; keep valuables secure and follow local queueing etiquette.
- If sensitive to crowds, visit Shibuya Crossing from a café or a side street view.
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Transit & Navigation:
- With walking only, use station exits and landmarks to navigate; trust local maps and Google/Apple Maps for walking times.
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Cultural Tips:
- Bow slightly when greeting; remove shoes where requested (some traditional restaurants and shrines).
- When visiting shrines, follow the ritual: cleanse at the temizuya and a gentle bow at the main hall.
Final Notes
This plan starts and ends each day at your central Tokyo accommodation (assumed central hotel). Pace is relaxed for two adults with time for spontaneous stops.