Tokyo 7 Days Guide
Tokyo in 7 Days
A Complete Guide to Japan’s Magnificent Capital
Understanding Tokyo: A City Like No Other
Tokyo is not merely a city; it is a living organism that pulses with energy, tradition, and innovation. This remarkable metropolis seamlessly weaves together the ancient and the ultramodern, creating a tapestry of experiences that captivates millions of visitors each year. From serene temples that have stood for centuries to neon-lit skyscrapers that pierce the clouds, Tokyo offers a journey through time and space unlike any other destination on Earth.
The city’s character is defined by its unique neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality. Shibuya pulses with youthful energy and fashion-forward thinking, while Asakusa preserves the spirit of old Edo with its traditional shops and historic temples. Shinjuku dazzles with its towering buildings and vibrant nightlife, whereas Yanaka offers quiet streets lined with wooden houses that survived the bombings of World War II.
What makes Tokyo truly exceptional is its paradoxical nature. It is simultaneously the most technologically advanced city on the planet and one that deeply reveres its traditions. You can witness this duality everywhere: salary workers in business suits bowing respectfully at Shinto shrines during their lunch breaks, centuries-old tea ceremonies performed in buildings surrounded by modern architecture, and traditional festivals celebrated with the same fervor they have been for hundreds of years, now illuminated by LED lights and documented on smartphones.
The Tokyo Experience
Tokyo operates with a precision and efficiency that seems almost choreographed. The trains run on time to the second, streets remain impeccably clean despite the absence of public trash cans, and a culture of consideration for others pervades every interaction. This is a city where vending machines outnumber people in some areas, where you can find a restaurant serving only a single dish perfected over generations, and where robots might serve you coffee while a master craftsman hand-makes your sushi.
Seven Days in Tokyo: A Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and East Tokyo Exploration
Begin your Tokyo adventure in Asakusa, the heart of old Edo. Your first stop should be Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest and most significant Buddhist temple, founded in 645 AD. Approach through Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), marked by its enormous red lantern weighing 700 kilograms. The gate’s protective deities, Fujin (god of wind) and Raijin (god of thunder), watch over the entrance in imposing statues.
Walk down Nakamise-dori, a shopping street that has existed for centuries, where approximately 90 shops sell traditional crafts, snacks, and souvenirs. Try freshly made ningyo-yaki (small cakes filled with red bean paste), age-manju (deep-fried sweet buns), or crispy senbei (rice crackers). The street itself is a sensory experience, filled with the aromas of grilling snacks and the visual feast of traditional goods.
After exploring the temple complex, visit the nearby Sumida River. Here you can walk along the waterfront and see the iconic Tokyo Skytree, the world’s tallest tower at 634 meters. If you have time, cross the river to visit the Skytree itself, where observation decks at 350 and 450 meters offer breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Tokyo metropolis stretching to the horizon.
In the evening, head to Akihabara, the electric town and anime/manga paradise. This neighborhood transforms at night into a neon wonderland where multi-story electronics stores, anime shops, and themed cafes create a uniquely Japanese urban landscape. Even if you’re not into electronics or anime, the sheer energy and visual spectacle of Akihabara at night is worth experiencing.
Day 2: Imperial Tokyo and Ginza
Start your day at the Imperial Palace, the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. While the inner grounds are generally closed to the public, the East Gardens are open and offer a peaceful retreat with beautifully maintained traditional Japanese gardens, remnants of the old Edo Castle, and seasonal flowers. The contrast between the ancient stone walls and moats with the modern city skyline creates stunning photographic opportunities.
Walk to nearby Marunouchi, Tokyo’s premier business district, where historic brick buildings blend with contemporary glass towers. The area around Tokyo Station is particularly impressive, with the station’s red brick facade, carefully restored to its 1914 design, standing as an architectural gem.
After lunch, explore Ginza, one of the world’s most luxurious shopping districts. Here, flagship stores of international luxury brands line the streets alongside prestigious Japanese department stores like Mitsukoshi and Wako. Even if luxury shopping isn’t your interest, Ginza offers world-class architecture, art galleries, and the opportunity to observe Tokyo’s most elegant shopping culture.
Don’t miss Ginza’s pedestrian paradise on weekend afternoons, when the main street closes to vehicles, allowing pedestrians to stroll freely. Visit traditional establishments like Kyukyodo, a shop selling fine paper and incense since 1663, or Itoya, a multi-story stationery wonderland that elevates paper goods to an art form.
In the evening, experience Ginza’s culinary scene. This is where you’ll find some of Tokyo’s most exclusive restaurants, including numerous Michelin-starred establishments. Alternatively, visit the basement food halls of department stores (depachika) to sample exquisite prepared foods and desserts that showcase Japanese attention to detail and presentation.
Day 3: Harajuku, Shibuya, and Youth Culture
Begin at Meiji Jingu, Tokyo’s most important Shinto shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The shrine is approached through a forest of 100,000 trees, creating an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city. The massive torii gate at the entrance, made from 1,500-year-old cypress trees, marks your passage from the mundane to the sacred. If you’re lucky, you might witness a traditional Shinto wedding ceremony.
Exit the shrine grounds onto Harajuku’s Takeshita Street, and the contrast could not be more dramatic. This narrow pedestrian street represents Tokyo’s youth culture at its most exuberant, packed with shops selling the latest fashion trends, crepe stands, and cafes. On Sundays, you might see cosplayers and Gothic Lolita fashion enthusiasts gathering near the bridge at Harajuku Station.
Walk down to Omotesando, often called Tokyo’s Champs-Élysées, where world-renowned architects have created stunning buildings for luxury brands. The tree-lined boulevard offers sophisticated shopping and dining, with architectural highlights including Tadao Ando’s Omotesando Hills and Herzog & de Meuron’s Prada building.
In the afternoon, proceed to Shibuya to witness the famous Shibuya Crossing, possibly the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection. Every light change sees up to 3,000 people crossing from all directions simultaneously, creating a choreographed chaos that has become emblematic of Tokyo. View it from above at the Starbucks in Tsutaya or the Shibuya Sky observation deck.
Explore Shibuya’s youth-oriented shopping areas, visit the statue of Hachiko (the faithful dog who waited for his deceased owner for years), and experience the district’s vibrant atmosphere. As evening falls, the area transforms with neon lights and the energy of Tokyo’s nightlife coming alive.
Day 4: Shinjuku and Modern Tokyo
Dedicate this day to Shinjuku, Tokyo’s busiest district and a city within a city. Start at Shinjuku Station, the world’s busiest railway station, handling over 3.5 million passengers daily. The station itself is a labyrinthine marvel with over 200 exits.
Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, where free observation decks on the 45th floor offer spectacular 360-degree views of the city. On clear days, you can see Mount Fuji in the distance. The building’s design by architect Kenzo Tange evokes traditional Japanese temple architecture while being distinctly modern.
Explore Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, one of Tokyo’s largest and most beautiful parks. The garden combines three distinct landscape styles: French formal, English landscape, and Japanese traditional, spread across 58 hectares. It’s particularly stunning during cherry blossom season in spring and autumn foliage season.
In the afternoon, wander through the department stores around Shinjuku Station, each offering a different shopping experience and incredible food halls. Visit Isetan for high-end fashion and gourmet foods, or explore the more youth-oriented stores in nearby Takashimaya Times Square.
As evening approaches, experience Kabukicho, Tokyo’s largest entertainment and red-light district. While parts cater to adult entertainment, the area is generally safe and offers a fascinating glimpse into Tokyo’s nightlife. The area around the Godzilla head on the Toho Cinema building is particularly photogenic. Alternatively, explore the atmospheric narrow lanes of Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai, areas filled with tiny bars and restaurants that evoke post-war Tokyo.
Day 5: Ueno, Museums, and Traditional Culture
Spend your morning in Ueno Park, a cultural hub containing some of Tokyo’s finest museums. The Tokyo National Museum houses the world’s largest collection of Japanese art and artifacts, with over 110,000 items spanning Japanese history from prehistoric times to the modern era. The museum complex includes buildings dedicated to Japanese gallery, Asian gallery, and special exhibitions.
The National Museum of Western Art, designed by Le Corbusier and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses an impressive collection including works by Monet, Renoir, and Rodin. The National Museum of Nature and Science offers fascinating exhibits on Japan’s natural history and scientific achievements.
Ueno Park itself deserves exploration, particularly Shinobazu Pond with its lotus flowers and Benzaiten shrine. The park becomes one of Tokyo’s premier cherry blossom viewing spots in spring, attracting thousands for hanami parties.
In the afternoon, explore Ueno’s Ameyoko Market, a bustling shopping street under the railway tracks where vendors sell everything from fresh fish to clothing at bargain prices. The market atmosphere provides a complete contrast to Ginza’s refined shopping experience.
Visit nearby Yanaka, one of Tokyo’s few districts that survived the World War II air raids relatively intact. This area preserves the atmosphere of old Tokyo with its narrow lanes, traditional wooden houses, small temples, and artisan workshops. Yanaka Cemetery offers peaceful walks among cherry trees and historic graves.
End your day at Nezu Shrine, a beautiful Shinto shrine famous for its tunnel of vermillion torii gates and azalea garden. The shrine’s architecture dates from 1706 and represents an excellent example of Edo period shrine construction.
Day 6: Odaiba and Tokyo Bay
Take the Yurikamome Line from Shimbashi, an automated elevated train that offers spectacular views as it crosses Rainbow Bridge to Odaiba, Tokyo’s futuristic waterfront district built on reclaimed land in Tokyo Bay.
Start at teamLab Borderless digital art museum, an immersive experience where art, technology, and nature combine in endlessly transforming installations. This revolutionary museum has no maps or set routes—visitors wander through borderless art installations that flow from room to room, creating an ever-changing experience. Book tickets in advance as this popular attraction often sells out.
Visit the life-size Gundam statue at DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, a must-see for anime and robot enthusiasts. The 18-meter tall mobile suit performs periodic demonstrations with lights and movement. The surrounding shopping complex offers dining, entertainment, and shopping.
Explore Palette Town with its giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic bay views, or visit MIRAIKAN, the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, where interactive exhibits showcase Japan’s technological advancement and vision for the future, including robots and space exploration.
Odaiba’s beaches offer relaxing spots to enjoy Tokyo Bay views, while Oedo Onsen Monogatari provides a theme park-like hot spring experience where visitors can enjoy various baths and a recreation of an Edo period town while wearing yukata (casual kimono).
As evening falls, enjoy the illuminated Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower views across the bay. The waterfront promenade offers romantic walks and numerous restaurants with bay views for dinner.
Day 7: Day Trip or Deep Dive into Neighborhoods
For your final day, consider either a day trip to nearby attractions or deeper exploration of Tokyo neighborhoods you’ve enjoyed most.
Day Trip Option 1: Mount Fuji and Hakone – Take an early train to Hakone for views of Mount Fuji, Japan’s sacred mountain. Enjoy a cruise on Lake Ashi, ride the Hakone Ropeway over volcanic valleys, and experience traditional onsen bathing. On clear days, Fuji’s snow-capped peak creates an unforgettable sight.
Day Trip Option 2: Nikko – Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site about two hours north of Tokyo. Nikko offers spectacular shrine complexes including the ornate Toshogu Shrine with its famous three wise monkeys carving, beautiful natural scenery, and sacred waterfalls. The journey itself through mountainous landscape is memorable.
Day Trip Option 3: Kamakura – Explore this coastal town that served as Japan’s political center in the 12th-13th centuries. Visit the Great Buddha, numerous historic temples, enjoy beach views, and experience a more relaxed pace while staying close to Tokyo.
Staying in Tokyo Option – Dedicate this day to neighborhoods you haven’t fully explored. Consider Nakano Broadway for otaku culture beyond Akihabara, Kagurazaka for its atmospheric lanes and French influence, Daikanyama for hip boutiques and cafes, or Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh seafood and breakfast.
Alternatively, visit Roppongi for art museums including the Mori Art Museum and the National Art Center, or explore Ryogoku to learn about sumo wrestling at the Sumo Museum and Edo-Tokyo Museum.
Essential Tips for Visiting Tokyo
Transportation: Purchase a Suica or Pasmo IC card for seamless travel on trains, subways, and buses. Tokyo’s public transportation system is incredibly efficient but can be overwhelming initially. Download apps like Google Maps or Hyperdia for navigation. Trains stop running around midnight, so plan accordingly.
Language: While English signage has improved significantly, especially in major areas, learning basic Japanese phrases shows respect and enhances your experience. Many restaurants use picture menus or plastic food displays, making ordering easier.
Dining: Many popular restaurants accept reservations only, particularly higher-end establishments. For casual dining, explore areas near train stations where countless options exist. Don’t tip—it’s not customary in Japan and may cause confusion. Some restaurants have cover charges (table fees), particularly izakayas.
Etiquette: Remove shoes when entering homes, some restaurants, and temple buildings. Don’t eat while walking. Speak quietly on trains. Stand on the left side of escalators (right in Osaka). Bow slightly when greeting people. Don’t leave trash on streets—carry it until you find a bin or return to your accommodation.
Cash: Despite being highly technological, Japan remains largely cash-based. Many smaller restaurants and shops don’t accept credit cards. ATMs at 7-Eleven convenience stores accept international cards and operate 24/7.
Tokyo’s Culinary Landscape
Tokyo holds more Michelin stars than any other city in the world, but its culinary excellence extends far beyond fine dining. The city offers an incredible range of food experiences, from conveyor belt sushi to three-Michelin-star kaiseki restaurants, from standing noodle bars to elegant tempura counters.
Every neighborhood has its culinary character. Tsukiji and Toyosu offer the freshest seafood, Kappabashi sells restaurant supplies and perfect plastic food samples, Sugamo caters to traditional Japanese tastes, while international cuisine thrives in Roppongi and Shibuya. Don’t miss trying regional specialties from across Japan concentrated in Tokyo’s restaurants.
The department store basement food halls (depachika) are destinations in themselves, offering exquisitely prepared foods, beautiful bento boxes, delicate wagashi (Japanese sweets), and seasonal delicacies. The presentation elevates food to art, with each item carefully wrapped and presented.
Conclusion: The Magic of Tokyo
Seven days in Tokyo merely scratches the surface of what this extraordinary city offers. You’ll leave with incredible memories, countless photographs, and an appreciation for a culture that balances respect for tradition with enthusiastic embrace of innovation.
Tokyo challenges expectations and defies easy categorization. It’s a city where ancient temples coexist with robot restaurants, where master craftsmen practice centuries-old techniques while scientists push technological boundaries. It’s simultaneously orderly and chaotic, traditional and futuristic, serene and energetic.
What makes Tokyo truly special isn’t any single attraction but the accumulation of small moments: the precise bow of a shopkeeper, the perfectly formed sushi piece, the autumn leaves at a quiet temple, the organized chaos of Shibuya crossing, the kindness of strangers helping lost tourists, the taste of a freshly made taiyaki, the view from Tokyo Skytree as the city lights begin to twinkle.
Tokyo will enchant you, perhaps frustrate you occasionally, definitely fascinate you, and ultimately leave you wanting to return. It’s a city that reveals itself slowly, rewarding curiosity and openness with unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re drawn to its cultural heritage, culinary excellence, technological innovation, or simply its unique urban energy, Tokyo delivers experiences found nowhere else on Earth.
Remember: This itinerary is a suggested framework. Tokyo’s beauty lies in both planned experiences and spontaneous discoveries. Allow time to wander, get lost in neighborhoods, follow your curiosity down interesting streets, and let the city surprise you. Some of your best Tokyo memories will come from unplanned moments.