With the neon lights, busy streets and quirky culture, creating a Tokyo 7 day itinerary for travel can be a little tricky.
You have one week in Tokyo, but there’s so much to see and do – how do you choose to spend your time?
With a population of 38 million, Japan’s capital city is the largest in the world (by population). There are almost as many things to do in Tokyo with 7 days – that’s where this post comes in.
Follow this week itinerary for Tokyo and you’ll zoom the chaotic streets in a go-kart, learn the ancient history of Edo and see some amazing city-scape skylines (night time is unreal).
Before we get into it, this Tokyo travel itinerary – who is it for?
Who is this travel Tokyo 7 day itinerary for?
There are countless ways to spend a week in Tokyo. This itinerary of Japan’s capital runs through quite a lot – you’ll be busy soaking in the sights and eating delicious food – all while being on a budget.
Horizon Unknown is all about budget-minded, responsible travel that gives travelers a rich experience.
So if that sounds like you, let’s get going with 7 days in Tokyo!
Getting to Tokyo from the airport (Narita and Haneda)
99% of international travelers to Tokyo will come through one of two international airports that service this busy city – Haneda and Nartia.
While both airports fly international routes, they are in different parts of the city. It’s a 77km (48 mile)drive between the airport and takes about an hour.
So knowing which Tokyo airport you fly in to will be super important.
Narita airport to Tokyo city
Narita airport is located 71km away from downtown Tokyo, which makes the journey a little longer.
There are multiple ways to get into Tokyo from Narita airport.
Train – The train from Narita to Tokyo is operated by Keisei Skyliner, costs 2,370¥ ($22 USD), and takes around 45 minutes to arrive at Keisei Ueno Station in Tokyo. You can book your ticket easily and ahead of time at the link above.
If you’re thinking about catching lots of trains in Japan, you could save a lot of money through the Japan Rail Pass.
Narita Shuttle Bus is another option, that costs 3,900¥ ($36 USD).
If you’re thinking about catching a taxi from Narita airport into Tokyo, think again. The cost is said to average around $200-300 USD! That’s 20,000+ ¥.
Haneda airport to Tokyo city
Haneda airport is much closer to Tokyo – you’re looking around 26km to downtown, and this can take about half an hour. Some of the routes require multiple train connections, depending where in the city you want to get to.
Haneda airport is serviced by the Keikyu Airport Line and the journey takes around 20 minutes from Shinagawa Station, 410 Yen (¥).
Foreword on Tokyo 7 day itinerary
Please note: Some links below are affiliate links. I earn a small amount through certain purchases you make, this does not increase the cost for you and helps support this site.
Depending on how long you have in Tokyo and how energetic you’re feeling, the first and final day of 7 in Tokyo will be a slower one – I know that jetlag can be a pain!
Feel free to juggle any sights or activities from day to day, or skip/add places to visit in Tokyo. Just let me know how you found it all in the comments below.
If you’re nervous about your upcoming trip – read up on culture shock in Japan and how to adapt to these different cultures.
With that said, let’s get into 7 days in Tokyo itinerary!
First day in Tokyo
I know when I flew into Tokyo, it was around lunchtime and I just got off a long flight. Even though I wanted to see more in my first day in Tokyo, jetlag got the better of me.
That’s why the first day in Tokyo of 7 is relaxed and pretty short – remember, you can always add things from the “extra things to do in Tokyo” near the bottom of this post.
Tokyo Tower
First up, one of Tokyo’s most visited icons, the Tokyo Tower. It’s a popular attraction in Tokyo, so if you’d like to not wait in line to get up to the observation decks, begin this 7 days in Tokyo itinerary at opening time if you can – 9am!
Standing at 330meters tall, this tower is modeled from Paris’ Effiel Tower in France. The bright colors of white and orange are for air safety regulations.
Directly beneath the tower are not only the elevators to the observation decks, but coffee shops and museums are also the 4 story building. Tokyo Tower is open from 9am to 11pm, 7 days a week and costs
You can book your Tokyo Tower ticket online to save the lines.
Mari-kart through the streets of Tokyo
If you want a super unique and fun thing to do with 7 days in Tokyo, don’t miss out on Mari-Car!
Inspired by the video game Mario Kart, you take to the streets of Tokyo in a go-kart. That’s right, you can drive in Tokyo on a go-kart. And it is every bit as exciting as it sounds.
You’ll want to get in touch with Mari-Kart and book a spot early as it does sell out, or you can book online. There are multiple tracks to choose from depending exactly when you want/can zoom around the busy streets.
If you can, driving at night is an unforgettable experience. On some tracks, you’ll visit the Tokyo Tower, which is shining a bright orange hue every night.
If you can’t miss out on one thing in Tokyo, its Mario Kart! You’ll even get to dress up as your favorite character as you explore the city.
Second day in Tokyo
Tour Tokyo’s Imperial Palace
The second day of 7 in Tokyo begins at the Imperial Palace – a short 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station.
Covering 3.3 square kilometers (1.3 sq miles), the Imperial Palace of Tokyo is full of history and cultural significance just waiting to be discovered.
Inside the complex are tours of the main areas, available for free, as well as a number of hanami – cherry blossom viewing spots.
Edo Castle, with the remains inside of the complex walls, is one of the most significant buildings in all of Japan. Built in 1457, Edo Castle (or Chiyoda Castle) became the military headquarters of the Tokugawa Shogunate.
Tokyo’s Imperial Palace is both a beautiful and culturally significant to the history of Japan – plus if you’re in cherry blossom season (end of March to start of April) you’re in for a special sight.
You can book a wide range of Tokyo Imperial Palace Tours when you’re planning your adventure.
Nihombashi Tourist Information Center
The Nihombashi Tourist Information Center isn’t a stop you’re likely to see on mmany7 days in Tokyo itineraries, but its one of my favorite stops in the city.
While they do offer maps and information about the surrounding area, this isn’t you’re average information Center.
The Nihombashi Tourist Information Center offers a range of tours and activities. I took a small origami lesson for 500 Yen here and learned how to create 3 pieces of origami, including a crane, samurai helmet or kabuto and a kimono.
You can try kimono’s on here or have a tea ceremony. There are plenty of things to do at Nihombashi Tourist Information Center.
Ozu-washi Paper Factory
Another lesser-known activity in Tokyo but memorable none the less – it is a little different. Ozu-washi Paper Factory creates mino-washi paper. Good origami paper and those sheets of paper across doors in some Japanese houses are all forms of mino-washi paper.
Here you can learn about the in-depth process of creating high standard mino-washi paper, and even create a sheet of your own!
Nihombashi Tourist Information Center also booked this tour and was another 500 Yen, per person.
Third day in Tokyo
Samurai Museum
Today begins a little later as this museum opens at 10:30am, but is well worth the visit.
If you’re looking to learn about the history of samurai that has shaped much of Japan, the samurai museum in Tokyo is a perfect stop.
From artwork to swords and even guns, armor and the stories behind it all, the samurai museum gives a history lesson inside the 7-day itinerary of Tokyo.
Included in your entrance fee of 1,500 Yen is a tour guide, performance by a trained samurai actor and so much information about the history of samurai, Tokyo and Japan in general.
It’s a great place to start your 3rd of 7 days in Tokyo.
Kabuki Performance
Kabuki is a popular style of theater in Japan and you can get easy and cheap Kabukiza Theater tickets in Tokyo.
There are a number of vendors and vending machines selling tickets throughout the building. Your cheapest option for Kabuki theatre in Tokyo is a single session in the standing section. There’s no need to reserve tickets beforehand, but keep in mind, things still may sell out in peak times.
Depending how many acts you’d like to watch, performances of this one-of-kind quirky, Japanese drama can last hours. Or you can just stay for the single act, lasting around 40minutes, to 1 hour – and standing for an hour straight was enough for me.
You can get more expensive seating arrangements and restaurants are located inside the theatre for lunch.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
One of the best viewpoints in Tokyo. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is free to enter and gives a stunning cityscape view of the city as it stretches off into the horizon.
Not only are the two observation decks free to enter, the observation decks at 202 meters high, alternate between the north and south observatory on a daily basis.
I highly recommend visiting the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building at night – the night time view, with seemingly neverending glistening lights is mesmerizing. Tokyo is huge!
A Side tip, if the weather is nice and the sun is shining, it’s possible to see Mount Fuji off in the distance!
Fourth day in Tokyo
Sensoji Temple
Sensoji Temple, or Asakusa Kannon Temple, is one of Tokyo’s most visited Buddhist sights.
Building of Sensoji Temple was completed in 645, making it the oldest temple in the entire city. That may explain why a classic symbol of Tokyo is the front gate, Kaminarimon Gate, or Thunder Gate, of the Sensoji Temple Complex.
Leading to the second gate, known as Hozomon Gate, is lined with shops along the 200 meter stretch of path. Just beyond is Asakusa Shrine, the main building, and an ornate 5-story pagoda.
From Tokyo Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Kanda Station. You can get there early, as the temple grounds are always open, and the main hall is open from 6am to 5pm. There is no admission fee to enter Sensoji Temple.
Sumida Park – Cherry Blossoms
Sumida Park is a popular stretch of green and trees inside Tokyo – especially if you’re visiting in Tokyo’s cherry blossom window – cherry blossoms are in full bloom (known as mankai) around April 2nd, but can be seen a week either side of that.
If you’re visiting Tokyo for cherry blossom season, known as hanami, you’re in for a beautiful sight. But plan and book ahead – as this is a very busy time throughout Tokyo.
No matter the time of visiting, Sumida Park is an easy and enjoyable walk right along the Sumida River. The park is a short 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station.
The good part is, you’re close to the last stop for the day – Tokyo Skytree.
Tokyo Skytree
The world’s tallest tower and second tallest building stands at 634m high. This broadcasting tower doubles as an observation deck and restaurant.
Visiting the observation decks in the Tokyo Skytree is another great way to get an Aerial view of Tokyo.
- The first observation deck is situated at 335m high and costs 2060 Yen to visit.
- 100 meters higher (450m) is the second observation deck and costs an extra 1030 Yen.
If you don’t want to wait in the line, you can buy your tickets online to the Tokyo Skytree.
Fifth day in Tokyo
Hamarikyu Gardens
Just across the road from Tokyo Train Station sits Hamarikyu Gardens. Being right on the waterfront it’s a scenic walk with waterways and lush greenery.
In the 1uth century, a Shogun Villa was built and is a peaceful walk with ponds. It’s easy to feel outside one of the busiest city’s on the planet walking around the tranquil setting.
while children are free, entrance fee for adults is around $5 USD, but it is worth it to unwind it from the busy streets of Tokyo.
Taiko Drumming Lesson
Taiko drumming is a Japanese style of drumming and it’s one of those experiences that you’ll never forget – especially if you’re the butt of the jokes on your lack of rhythm like I was (they were light-hearted jokes at least).
If you’re looking for the best Taiko Drumming experience in Tokyo, you need to head to E-Hougaku Studio.
This is more of a local Taiko Drumming studio in Tokyo, where regular classes happen and the students are from around the suburban area near Tokyo – and of all ages, from children to seniors.
The people made there were welcoming and genuine. It made it really easy to learn, even if my rhythm let me down most of the time.
Cat café – Calico
Animal cafes in Tokyo are immensely popular. There is a café with so many different animals, but the cat café seems to be the most popular – as there are plenty of them.
One thing I was concerned about is the treatment of the cats in these cafes. From my experience, these cats did what cats regularly do, sleep. While a few were awake and wondering, none seemed too active and enjoying their day time cat nap. While you are able to fee some cats if you wish, be careful as a colorful scarf can mean dietary restrictions due to health issues.
Calico Cat Café is in Shinjuku and opens from 10am to 10pm, with a small café providing drinks.
Sixth day in Tokyo
Michelin Star Ramen Tsuta
Time for one of my personal favorite things about Japan – ramen. Yeah, first thing in the morning can be little different, but if you want to try Tsuta ramen, the very first Michelin Star ramen restaurant in the world, you need to get here early.
While they open their doors at 8am, you’ll need to get here a little earlier, as the line up can begin as early as 7am. You’ll hand over 1000 Yen and be given a time slot to return later in the day. It’s not the easiest bowl of ramen you’ll have, but it is well worth the effort.
For around 1200 Yen, you’ll be served Tsuta Ramen’s signature dish. Tsuta ramen is made with all fresh ingredients and limits its daily serving size to around 70 bowls a day – so that’s not many available spots at the 9 people bar-style seating – that’s why getting to Tsuta early is necessary!
Ueno Park
Ueno Park is a popular place to visit in Tokyo for a number of reasons. Multiple museums, including Tokyo National Museum and the National Science Museum, are within its grounds. There are also over 1000 cherry blossom trees that create a memorable sight for around 2 weeks a year inside this public park.
There are a few temples inside Ueno Park, including Kaneji Temple, formerly one of the wealthiest temples during the Edo Period.
The easiest way to get to Ueno Park is by metro. Head to Ueno Station and take “Park Exit” and you’re right there. The park closes its doors at 11pm at night and is free to enter.
Koishikawa Botanical Garden
This lesser-visited botanical garden in Tokyo is home to thousands of species of plants and trees – including a number of different cherry blossom trees. Making this a great, but rather less popular spot for hanami, or cherry blossom viewing.
This beautiful Tokyo botanical gardens are owned by Tokyo University, and is a short 15-minute walk from either Myogadani Station or Hakusan Station, on the Marunouchi Subway Line and the Mita Subway Line respectively.
Edo-Tokyo Museum
This unmistakable building in the Ryogoku District houses a lot of information about the past and present of Tokyo.
You’ll find plenty of historical and cultural information on how Edo, and now Tokyo came to be. Through various displays, there is a wide range of topics to learn about, from politics to architecture and everywhere in between.
Known as Edo until 1869, Tokyo is undoubtedly full of history, both ancient and modern. You can get a free guided tour of the Edo-Tokyo museum from a volunteer from 10am to 3pm and opens its doors from 9:30am to 5:30pm with admission costing 600 Yen. You can reach the Edo-Tokyo Museum by a 5-minute walk from Ryogoku Station.
Seventh day in Tokyo
Explore Harajuku
The suburb of Harajuku in Tokyo is super popular for a number of reasons – quirky cosplay and unique shopping down Takeshita Street, Street art bursting with color and is widely known for its youth culture and fashion.
Along with boutique and vintage shops, unique bars are dotted around the streets of Harajuku. This popular district in Shibuya is lined with places of interest you would struggle to find similar places in Tokyo, let alone the rest of the world – it is truly one of a kind.
The next attraction in this Tokyo 7 day itinerary is just a stone’s throw away.
Meiji Jingu Shrine and Yoyogi Park
Dedicated to Emperor Meiji, Meiji Jingu Shrine was completed in 1920. Meiji Jingu Shrine is one of Japan’s most popular shrines in the entire country – with the first few days of the new year seeing around 3 million visitors!
The shrines main complex of buildings is marked by a giant wooden torii gate and surrounded by thousands of trees making up Yoyogi Park.
Around Meiji Jingu Shrine lies Yoyoji Park – with the shrines located inside the park grounds itself. While the shrine itself is free to enter, the inner gardens cost 500 Yen – you can visit from sunrise to sunset. The easiest access point is the busy Harajuku Station – it’s basically in the Yoyogi Park grounds.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one of Tokyo’s most visited parks – especially during the springtime when more than 400 cherry blossom trees bloom.
With the origins of the park dating back to 1603, it was converted into the botanical gardens you see today almost exactly 3 centuries later when the complex transferred to the Imperial Family of Japan.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden reopened in 1949 after it was severely damaged during the Second World War.
Admission to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is 500 Yen, and opens from 9am to 5:30 – 7pm (depending on what time of the year you’re visiting).
Extra things to do in Tokyo with 7 days
If you have a little more than 7 days in Tokyo, you might want a few extra things to do. You can swap the sights and activities below for many things in this 7 days in Tokyo itinerary.
Pachinko slot machines
This is an activity that isn’t for everyone, but I had a fun time nonetheless.
Pachinko is a sort of slot machine. They are commonly in a sort of pachinko hall and sometimes have hundreds to thousands of machines. You pay a little money and get a bucket of tiny steel balls (similar to ball bearings). You throw them into the top of the machine and the ball bounce off things inside the machine.
The downside, these places are incredibly noisy and smoking is allowed indoors (at least the one I visited). The noise is constant from the huge popularity of the game, and the smoke can be quite thick.
Still, pachinko is an option to add to your week itinerary of Tokyo if you’re looking for something more.
Tokyo Pokemon Megastore
I get it, Pokemon isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. But I still had a lot of fun – even though there were a lot of new generations of catchable monster that I had never heard of.
Apart from plush dolls, backpacks, pencils and plenty of other items to remember your visit, you can also battle through an interactive game – and get your Pokemon printed on a plastic disk to keep and battle with next time.
Experience Geisha in Tokyo
Looking for an extra dose of Japanese culture in Tokyo? A Geisha Performance might be exactly what you’re after.
These professional Japanese performers are skilled in dance and singing while playing some traditional games along the way. A night of entertainment with a Geisha can easily run into the hundreds of dollars, after all, they are well trained in many arts.
During my time in Japan, finding a Geisha performance wasn’t too easy (at least one I could afford), but there are ways to book online before you even get to Japan – and come highly recommended.
Where to stay in Tokyo on a budget
There are plenty of budget accommodations within Tokyo, from hostels dormitories to cheap hotels. You don’t have to search hard at all, and don’t need to sacrifice safety or comfort for a cheap night stay in Tokyo.
I hopped to and from Tokyo 3 times in my 3 months in Japan and stayed in a different place each time.
Japanize Guest House
From 2,600 Yen/$24 USD – 8.5/10
A short walk from Bakurocho Station, Japanize Guest House is a quiet, comfortable and clean hostel near downtown Tokyo. Many places of interest in this 7 day itinerary of Tokyo are within close distance – the Edo-Tokyo Museum is one stop from this hostel.
Citan Hostel
From 3,200 Yen/$30 USD – 8.8/10
Citan Hostel is just down the road from the above guest house, but is also a highly rated, pretty affordable hostel room in Tokyo.
If you’re looking for a more private setting, Citan Hostel in Tokyo offers a number of different private rooms. Citan Hostel is attached with a café and a great place for a non-binding machine coffee.
Sogihostel Beehive
From 1,220 Yen/$11 USD – 7.2/10
There is a couple of very good reasons why Sogihostel Beehive has made it into the Tokyo 7 day itinerary.
- It is one of, if not the cheapest, highly rated hostels in Tokyo
- If you’re going to wake up early to visit Tsuta Ramen, this is the closest hostel – easily within walking distance.
Summary of Tokyo 7 day itinerary
7 days in Tokyo will never be enough to cover this vast, ancient and often quirky city in Japan. There is just too much to see, do, eat and drink in the busy, bustling streets of one of the world’s largest citys.
There is always going to be something better, or more unique to add to a Tokyo itinerary of 7 days, so I’d love to hear your thoughts.
What is this Tokyo 7 day itinerary missing? What should be cut or replaced?
After 7 days in Tokyo itinerary – what now?
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Thanks for reading!
Happy and safe travels,
Ben – Horizon Unknown
