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Plan Your Trip to Tokyo: Best of Tokyo Tourism

Tokyo, Japan

With its futuristic skyscrapers, unrivalled food scene, and wild nightlife, Tokyo is a rush of pure adrenaline. The city is famously cutting-edge, yet its ancient Buddhist temples, vintage teahouses, and peaceful gardens offer a serene escape—and a reminder of its past. Spend the morning in Asakusa, Tokyo’s historical neighbourhood, to see the Sensoji temple, then take a stroll along the Sumida River (in the spring, the cherry blossoms are in full force). Or, make your way to Tsukiji Outer Market for a sushi breakfast—the narrow corridors are packed with tons of spots to choose from (most close around noon so get there early). Turn up the volume and get a taste for cosplay culture in Harajuku, or hit Akihabara for video games and anime. In the evening, take a detour down a yokocho—a little side street alleyway—to find laid-back izakayas and chill bars. That’s only scratching the surface—we’ve got more recs below.
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Essential Tokyo

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Properties ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, and number of page views.

Travel Advice

How to spend 7 days in Tokyo

Temples, art, and—yes—sushi
Read on

The best free things to do in Tokyo

Friends often ask me what to see in Tokyo, and how they can visit without breaking the bank. After decades of exploring the city and writing about it, I’m happy to say that although Japan can be expensive, many of my Tokyo must-sees happen to not cost a cent. And the best free experience of all? Simply walking around the fascinating neighbourhoods where these attractions are located.
Beth Reiber, Lawrence, KS
  • Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Decks
    5,540
    Located on the 45th floor of a city office building in Shinjuku, Tokyo’s best no-fee observatory is a great introduction to the city’s never-ending sprawl. On clear winter days, you can even see Mt. Fuji. Make this one of your first stops, not only to get a handle on Tokyo’s layout but also for the Tokyo Tourist Information Centre on the first floor, which has maps and brochures.
  • Tokyo Free Walking Tour
    596
    Led by dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers, I always recommend this nonprofit that offers four free tours conducted in English that take in some of Tokyo’s most iconic sights and neighbourhoods. Highlights include Asakusa, Ueno Park, the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, and Meiji Shrine and Harajuku. Tours are offered Saturday, Sunday, and some Wednesdays, and last 90 to 120 minutes.
  • The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace (Edo Castle Ruin)
    2,077
    Edo Castle was once the mightiest in the land, surrounded by whirling moats and secured with 29 watchtowers and 38 gates. Today, all that remains are the stone ramparts, tower foundation, and turrets. Although the ruins are fascinating, my favourite part is Ninomaru, a traditional (and free) Japanese garden. It’s particularly beautiful in the spring when azaleas, wisteria, and other flowers are in bloom.
  • Senso-ji Temple
    9,633
    Tokyo’s most famous temple predates the city by 1,300 years. Dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, it attracts some 30 million visitors every year. I love the temple’s festive atmosphere, which extends into the surrounding Asakusa neighbourhood with its shitamachi (old downtown) character. Nakamise, the pedestrian lane leading to the temple, is lined with inexpensive souvenir stalls and is one of Japan’s oldest shopping streets.
  • Meiji Jingu Shrine
    8,375
    Tokyo’s most venerated Shinto shrine is dedicated to Empress Shoken and Emperor Meiji (1852-1912), who oversaw Japan’s transformation from an agrarian feudal society to a modern industrialized nation. Nestled in a dense, sacred forest it has a peaceful atmosphere even though it’s not far from the vibrantly youthful Harajuku neighbourhood. (However, it's an especially popular site to visit around the New Year, so expect crowds if you visit then.)
  • Tsukiji Jogai Market
    1,905
    I was sad to see Tsukiji Fish Market move to a more sterile location in Toyosu, but Tsukiji Jogai (Outer Market) retains its bustling, lively atmosphere. A warren of alleyways lined with stalls and shops, it offers fresh seafood, seasonal produce, cooking utensils, and street food ranging from personal favourites like takoyaki (round octopus cakes) to king crab. It’s free to visit, but to escape the crowds arrive by 9 a.m.
  • Yoyogi Park
    2,362
    This 133-acre free park near Harajuku and Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s largest and most beloved parks, making it a great place to see Tokyoites at play. Families, couples, students, and groups of all nationalities come for weekend picnics on wide, grassy lawns or to play sports ranging from soccer to frisbee. It also has a forested area, bird sanctuary, dog run, rental bikes, and a dedicated cycling course, including one for children.
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Tokyo travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Hotel Recommendations

Some travelers have recommended staying in areas like Shinagawa, Ueno, Ginza, or Shibuya for their accessibility and proximity to key attractions in Tokyo. The Grand Prince Shin-Takanawa and Park Hotel were highlighted for having larger room sizes, which might be preferable for travelers with more luggage or who desire more space.

Price and Value

According to forum posts, budget considerations are significant for many visitors. For a budget of around 26,000 yen per night, areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku offer good hotel options that balance cost and convenience. The Toyoko Inn chain was mentioned several times for its affordability and reasonable amenities, despite some rooms being on the smaller side.

Alternative Accommodations

For those looking to stretch their budget further, some users suggested considering apartments, which can offer more space and amenities like a full kitchen, compared to traditional hotels. An apartment near Tokyo Tower in Minato City was specifically mentioned, offering a quiet neighborhood and easy access to public transport.

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Airport Transfer Options

Some travelers have shared that for transportation from Narita Airport to central Tokyo, options include private transfers, buses, and taxis. For instance, there is a regular limousine bus service costing 3200 JPY for adults and 1600 JPY for children, which directly connects Narita Airport to major hotels like the Metropolitan Hotel in Ikebukuro.

Convenience and Cost

Regarding convenience, taxis offer direct routes to hotels but are the most expensive option, with fares potentially exceeding 23,000 JPY from Narita to central Tokyo areas like Ikebukuro. Alternatively, the Narita Express train provides a swift connection to major stations like Shinjuku, from where a short taxi ride can be taken.

Special Situations

Travelers needing transfers between Haneda and Narita airports have discussed private car services due to restrictions on using public transportation in certain scenarios, such as traveling requirements from specific countries. Websites like tokyoairporter.com are mentioned for booking such services.

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Train Options

According to forum posts, the Narita Express (NEX) is a popular train option for travelers moving from Narita Airport to central Tokyo, offering direct rides with prices around 2,990 yen and a journey time of approximately 80 minutes. Another option is the Keisei Skyliner, which provides a faster connection to Ueno, costing about 2,670 yen and taking around 70 minutes.

Bus Services

Some travelers have recommended using the Access Narita bus or the KEISEI Bus as economical options. These buses have a flat fare of 1,000 yen and depart from Tokyo Station. Travel times can vary based on traffic, but the journey generally takes about an hour.

Alternative Train Routes

For a more economical journey, travelers can take local JR trains with a transfer, costing about 1,490 yen and taking roughly 100 minutes. There’s also a lesser-known route that involves a transfer and a short walk, costing under 1,300 yen but adding about 20 minutes to the travel time compared to the NEX.

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General Pass Information

According to forum posts, many travelers recommend using an IC card such as Suica or Pasmo for convenient travel across Tokyo. These cards are preloaded and can be topped up as needed, usable on all Tokyo area rail and subway lines. They are also accepted in convenience stores and other locations, making them versatile for both transportation and small purchases.

Specific Passes for Tourists

Some travelers have mentioned specific passes like the Tokyo Subway Pass, which covers only the subway systems operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei. While this pass is limited to subway lines, it may offer savings for those who plan primarily to travel within central Tokyo and do not need to use JR lines or other private railways.

Day Passes and Airport Transport

For short stays, the combination of a NEX ticket for travel between Narita Airport and Tokyo and a 72-hour Tokyo Metro pass is suggested by some users. This combination covers major transportation needs from the airport to the city and unlimited subway travel for three days.

Convenience and Purchase Locations

Travelers have also noted the convenience of purchasing IC cards upon arrival at the airport, where they can avoid long lines at train pass counters. They also highlighted that these cards could be bought at service counters rather than vending machines for additional ease.

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JR Pass Usage in Tokyo

According to forum posts, the JR Pass allows unlimited travel on all JR lines within Tokyo. This includes popular lines such as the Yamanote, Chuo, and Keihin-Tohoku lines. However, it does not cover non-JR lines like Tokyo Metro or private railways.

Limitations and Additional Information

Travelers have noted that the JR Pass is not valid on Tokyo Metro lines or other private railways in the city. For comprehensive city travel, users often pair the JR Pass with a Suica or Pasmo card, which are convenient for accessing non-JR trains and buses throughout Tokyo.

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Taxi Services

According to forum posts, taxis are readily available at Haneda Airport and can be easily accessed at the international terminal. The journey cost to downtown areas like Shibuya can be around 10,200 yen with late-night charges and express tolls included.

Public Transit

Some travelers have noted that the Tokyo Monorail is a convenient option, especially for those heading to areas like Hamamatsucho in Minato City. It costs around 500 yen and offers luggage racks, making it suitable for travelers with large suitcases. The last monorail service runs just before midnight.

Online Resources

Travelers have recommended checking specific links for detailed access and taxi information directly from the Haneda Airport official website or other reliable Japanese travel guides. This ensures updated and accurate transit options suitable for individual travel plans.

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Park Recommendations

According to forum posts, popular parks in Tokyo include Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Hamarikyu Gardens. Travelers have highlighted Ueno Park for its variety of attractions including museums, a zoo, and multiple cafes, making it ideal for family outings.

Special Features

Shinjuku Gyoen is favored for its expansive areas and variety of gardens, making it a prime location for cherry blossom viewing. Hamarikyu Gardens is noted for its scenic beauty and traditional Japanese garden aesthetics, located near the Tokyo Bay area.

Additional Options

Other notable mentions by forum users are Yoyogi Park and Koishikawa Korakuen for their peaceful ambiance and historical significance. These parks offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city life of Tokyo.

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Suica Card Usage in Tokyo

According to forum posts, the Suica card is widely accepted across various transportation modes in Tokyo, including JR lines like the Yamanote Line, Chuo-Sobu Line, and others. It can be used for buses, subways, and some taxis, especially those from larger companies.

Suica Card Purchase and Refund

Some travelers mentioned that Suica cards can be purchased at major JR stations in Tokyo. The card has a deposit system, where a handling fee is deducted from the deposit upon refund, based on the remaining balance. A variant called the Welcome Suica is available for tourists, which does not require a deposit and expires after 28 days.

Taxi Usage

In Tokyo, many taxis, particularly those operated by bigger companies, accept Suica for cashless payments. This is part of the anti-COVID measures promoting reduced physical contact. However, individual taxis might not accept Suica payments.

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