Plan the perfect trip to Tokyo with this detailed travel guide: top attractions, when to go, what to pack, travel costs, local etiquette, FAQs, and more.
Tokyo offers an unmatched blend of ultra-modern innovation and traditional Japanese culture. Whether you’re after sushi, sumo, shrines, or shopping, Tokyo has it all.
Best Time to Visit Tokyo
- Spring (Mar–May): Cherry blossoms, mild temps
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Festivals, but hot and humid
- Fall (Sep–Nov): Red maple leaves, pleasant climate
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Clear skies, cold but manageable
Top Places to Visit
- Shibuya Crossing & Hachikō Statue
- Tokyo Skytree & Tokyo Tower
- Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple
- Akihabara (Anime & Electronics)
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
- Tsukiji Outer Market
- Meiji Shrine
- Day Trips: Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Nikko
Where to Stay
- Luxury: The Peninsula Tokyo, Mandarin Oriental
- Mid-Range: Shibuya Granbell Hotel, Tokyu Stay
- Budget: Hostels in Ueno, capsule hotels in Asakusa
What to Eat
- Sushi (Tsukiji, Ginza)
- Ramen (Ichiran, Ippudo)
- Tempura, Yakitori, Okonomiyaki
- Street food at Harajuku and Ameyoko
Getting Around
- Use Suica or Pasmo cards
- JR Yamanote Line for major districts
- Google Maps or HyperDia for planning routes
- Metro closes around midnight
Travel Costs
- Budget daily: $70–$120
- Mid-range: $150–$250
- Luxury: $300+
Packing List
- Power bank
- Comfortable shoes
- Phrasebook or translation app
- Reusable chopsticks and bottle
Local Etiquette
- Bow when greeting
- Be quiet on public transport
- Don’t tip—it’s considered rude
- Stand on the left side of escalators
FAQs
- Do I need a visa? – 90-day visa-free entry for US
- Safe for solo travel? – Yes, extremely safe
- Is English spoken? – Limited, but signs are bilingual
- What’s the tipping culture? – Tipping is not expected
