tokyo travel hacks

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STORY Top 10 Japan Travel Hacks 10 hacks to make traveling in Japan a breeze

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• Top 10 Japan Travel Hacks

Visiting Japan can be daunting with its sheer density and complexity — utilize these 10 tips for a smoother experience

A lot of tourists come to Japan with little idea of the available conveniences that can make traveling much easier. From coin lockers to manga cafes, these hacks are invaluable for making a more manageable trip.

1. Convenience Stores

These are one-stop-shops for all your instant food and drink needs. With thousands of stores spread throughout Tokyo, the nearest one is usually no further than a few blocks away. Open 24/7, they offer ATM services, alcohol and cigarettes, printers and copying machines, as well as restrooms at certain locations.

2. Train apps

Use one of the many train schedule apps available to help you navigate Japan's public transportation system. From Hyperdia to Jorudan, most of the apps allow you to input a departure time or arrival time, and give you tons of options for transfers and routes.

3. Train cards

Trying to buy the right-priced train ticket for fare in Japan can be a hassle. Avoid any potential stress by buying a Pasmo or Suica train card, which allows you to charge set amounts of cash that will be automatically deducted as you travel from station to station. Charge up your card at any station — an initial 500 yen deposit is required — and you are good to go. These cards are becoming increasingly useful as vending machines, convenience stores and more are starting to accept them.

4. One-day metro passes

5. manga cafes.

Known as net cafes or manga cafes, these spaces allow you to rent tiny personal rooms with access to all-you-can-read manga comics, drink machines and depending on the location, pay-to-use shower rooms. While the rooms are only semi-private (they're interconnected and have relatively low walls), these establishments offer the cheapest way to sleep and get a quick shower without having to make a reservation.

6. Love Hotels

All of Japan's major cities generally have a number of “love hotels” situated near big stations. Don't be put off by the name, they can just as easily be used by single or couple travelers looking for a more interesting hotel option. With themed rooms, jacuzzis and more, these establishments are only rentable on a same-day basis. Although you might find them fully booked on weekends, on weekdays they provide a reliable and often cheap place to stay.

7. Coin Lockers

You'll notice that nearly every station and many department stores are equipped with walls upon walls of coin lockers. Costing between 200 and 900 yen, they offer temporary storage for those on day-trips and are ideal if you've just finished a shopping spree, but want to see more of the sights. Be careful though, the daily rental period for many coin lockers lasts until the date changes. After that, you will be charged extra for overtime.

8. Kuroneko Yamato

If you can't fit everything in your baggage, use Kuroneko Yamato's delivery service to send packages back home. Conveniently located in the airport and at many other locations — including convenience stores — they have reasonable prices and offer a straightforward service.

9. Koban (police boxes)

Police are often stationed in outposts called koban, or police boxes. These are usually near stations, or other high-traffic areas, and can be used for more than just reporting crime. Nearly all police officers in Japan are trained to memorize the area around their jurisdiction, and as such are often the first people locals approach to ask for directions. While there is no guarantee they'll have English speaking ability, they can generally get you going in the right direction with gestures and maps.

10. Rental bicycles

While not as developed for cyclists as some other countries, rental bicycles are generally available around major tourist hubs in Japan. These bikes are a cheap way to explore, letting you go off the main paths while staying green and burning a few calories. Most of Japan's major cities will have designated bicycle rental stores. Research the options before your trip begins.

The latest information may differ, so please check the official website

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Tokyo – Best Things To Do, See & Enjoy!

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Table of Contents

A brief history of tokyo, tokyo fact file, getting to tokyo, getting around tokyo, top 10 helpful japanese phrases, top 10 neighborhoods to visit in tokyo, top 10 tokyo attractions, 10 unique & quirky things to do in tokyo, top 10 views in tokyo, top 10 foods to try in tokyo, top 5 tokyo places for coffee drinkers, top 10 tokyo shopping areas & markets, 10 tokyo travel hacks, 10 fun facts about tokyo, top 5 day trips from tokyo, how to stay safe in tokyo, final thoughts.

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Tokyo is a world unto itself, and it’s an absolute must-see for any travel lover. Soak in the traditional Japanese culture, learn about modern life in the city, and people-watch until your head spins!

Tokyo has it all: from hole-in-the-wall gyoza joints to high-end Michelin sushi bars. If you’re going to Tokyo, plan on trying all the amazing food  — eating here is half the fun.

Food notwithstanding, Tokyo is a crazy and amazing city. You can watch the tuna auction at the Tsukiji fish market in the morning, wander around the Imperial Palace in the afternoon, and sing karaoke with the locals in the evening.

This is a modern, fast-paced city that still embraces its traditional roots. Even though the city is large, there’s a sense of cleanliness and order about Tokyo that makes it extremely accessible to visitors, and keeps it consistently rated by Conde Nast as one of the best cities in the world.

The history of Tokyo stretches back some 400 years. Originally named Edo, the city started to flourish when the Tokugawa Shogunate was established here. As the center of politics and culture in Japan, Edo grew into a huge city with a population of over 1 million by the mid-eighteenth century.

Throughout this time, the Emperor resided in Kyoto, which was the formal capital of the nation. The Edo Period lasted for nearly 260 years until the Meiji Restoration in 1868, when imperial rule was restored. The Emperor then moved to Edo, which was renamed Tokyo and became the capital of Japan.

In September 1923, Tokyo was devastated by the Great Kanto Earthquake, which caused fires that burned the city center to the ground. Shortly after the earthquake, Japan’s first subway line was opened. By 1935, the population of Tokyo had grown comparable to those of New York and London .

World War II had a large impact on Tokyo. The dual system of prefecture and city was abolished for war-time efficiency, and the 2 were merged to form the Metropolis of Tokyo in 1943 with a governor to oversee. During the final phase of the war, Tokyo was bombed 102 times; many lives were lost.

After the war, a time of gradual recovery began for the nation. Due to the introduction of new industries and technologies, this period saw economic prosperity return to Tokyo. In 1964, the Olympic Games were held in Tokyo, the Shinkansen (“Bullet Train”) line began operations, and the Metropolitan Expressway was opened, forming the foundation for Tokyo’s current position.

Today, Tokyo has become one of the world’s most active major cities, home to cutting-edge technology, information, culture, and fashion, as well as a high level of public safety. Tokyo has been selected to host its second Olympic Games in 2020. In preparation, the metropolitan government is taking many steps to improve the city’s infrastructure, environment, and the promotion of culture in time for the games…so it’s a perfect time to visit!

With more than 38 million people living in greater Tokyo, this city is the largest metropolitan area in the world. Space is limited: the typical size of a hotel room is usually not more than 15 square meters (170 square feet).

Here are some more useful facts and figures to prepare you for your trip:

Population:  13.76 million in the prefecture, 38.3 million in the greater metropolitan area

Area (including greater metropolitan area):  13,572 square kilometers

Primary Language:  Japanese (with each region having different dialects)

Primary Religions:  Shinto & Buddhism

Type of Government:  Unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy

Current Emperor:  Akihito

Current Prime Minister:  Shinzo Abe

Time Zone:  Japan Standard Time (UTC+9)

Currency:  Yen (JPY)

Country Dialing Code Prefix:  +81

Emergency Numbers:  110 to report an accident or crime to the police; 119 to report a fire or ask for an ambulance or rescue service.

Days Mt. Fuji Is Visible:  80 days/year  

Taxi Cabs: 35,000

Michelin Stars:  234 (more than any other city in the world)

Tokyo is served by 2 airports that both service international flights:

Narita International Airport (NRT)

• Haneda Airport (HND).

Haneda is closer and more convenient to the city but has fewer international connections.

Narita International Airport (NRT) is about 60 kilometers northeast of Tokyo, which is further away than Haneda. However, this is the city’s main international airport, and most international flights to Tokyo will use Narita. It’s likely this is the airport where you will arrive.

The following airlines service Narita:

• Aeroflot, Aeromexico, Air Busan, Air Canada, Air China, Air France, Air India, Air Macau, Air New Zealand, Air Niugini, Air Seoul, Air Tahiti Nui, Aircalin, All Nippon Airways, American Airlines, Asiana Airlines, Austrian Airlines
• British Airways
• Cathay Pacific, Cebu Pacific, China Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Eastar Jet, Egypt Air, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Etihad Airways, EVA Air
• Fiji Airways, FinnAir
• Garuda Indonesia
• Hainan Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, HK Express
• Iberia, Indonesian AirAsia X
• Japan Airlines, Jeju Air, Jet Asia Airways, Jetstar Airways, Jetstar Japan, Jin Air
• KLM, Korean Air
• LOT Polish Airlines
• Malaysia Airlines, MIAT Mongolian Airlines
• Orient Thai Airlines
• Pakistan International Airlines, Peach, Phillipine Airlines
• Qantas, Qatar Airlines
• S7 Airlines, Scandinavian Airlines, Scoot, Shenzhen Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Spring Airlines Japan, SriLankan Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines
• Thai AirAsia X, Thai Airways, Tigerair Taiwan, Turkish Airlines, T’way Airlines
• United Airlines, Uzbekistan Airways
• Vanilla Air, Vietnam Airlines
• Yakutia Airlines

Traveling From the Airport to the City

Once you’ve landed in Narita, you have a few options for getting into the city.

Narita Express

The Narita Express runs between Narita and Tokyo Station. Some trains also start/stop at other stations on the JR Yamanote Line, including Shinagawa and Shinjuku. The trip between Narita and Tokyo Station costs around 3,000 JPY and takes 65 minutes. Trains typically leave every 30 minutes. All seats are reserved; you can activate a Japan Rail Pass and/or make reservations at the JR counters at Narita. For more information, visit their website .

Keisei Skyliner

This is a good option only if you are staying near Ueno. It runs between Narita and Ueno, which is on the JR Yamanote Line. The trip between Narita and Ueno costs 2,470 JPY and takes about 40 minutes. For more information regarding timetables, visit their website .

Tokyo Airport Bus

Airport limousine buses run between Haneda and various points in Tokyo. The trip costs 3,100 JPY and takes between 85 and 110 minutes, depending upon the pick-up/drop-off point in Tokyo. At Narita, the boarding point is at the bus stops on ground floor. The main benefit will be a drop-off directly at your hotel. For more information, visit the limousine website .

Taxis are not typically a good option considering the time and expense it will take you to get into Tokyo. A regular taxi will cost about 21,000 JPY and take around 65-85 minutes, depending upon destination and traffic. You can also reserve a fixed-fare cab in advance at MK Taxi , but it will still run you about the same price.

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Tokyo International Airport, commonly known as Haneda Airport (HND), is about 14 kilometers south of central Tokyo, meaning that it’s more convenient to the city than Narita. An increasing number of carriers offer international flights to/from Haneda, and you’ll most likely land here if you’re arriving from other parts of Japan (most domestic flights use Haneda Airport).

The following airlines service Haneda:

AirAsia X, Air Canada, Air China, Air Do, Air France, Air New Zealand, All Nippon Airways, American Airlines, Asiana Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Emirates, EVA Air, Garuda Indonesia, Hainan Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, HK Express, Japan Airlines, Juneyao Airlines, Korean Air, Lufthansa, Okay Airways, Peach, Phillipine Airlines, Qantas, Qatar Airlines, Shanghai Airways, Singapore Airlines, Skymark Airlines, Solaseed Air, Spring Airlines, StarFlyer, Thai Airways, Tianjin Airlines, Tigerair Taiwan, United Airlines, Vietnam Airlines

Once you’ve landed in Haneda, you have a few options on how to get into Tokyo.

The Tokyo Monorail

The Tokyo Monorail runs directly between Haneda and Hamamatsucho, which is on the JR Yamanote Line only 3 stops from Tokyo Station. It costs 490 JPY and takes around 13 minutes on an express train. Note that the Tokyo Monorail cannot be used with a Japan Rail Pass. Please see the Tokyo Monorail website for the schedule .

Haneda Airport Bus

Airport limousine buses run between Haneda and various points in Tokyo. The trip costs 930 JPY and takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending upon the pick-up/drop-off point in Tokyo. At Haneda, the boarding point is at the bus stops on ground floor. The main benefit will be a drop-off directly at your hotel. For more information, please visit the limousine website .

A taxi is also a good option, particularly outside of rush hour or on weekends. A taxi between Haneda and Tokyo will cost around 6,000 JPY and take between 30 and 45 minutes, depending upon destination and traffic conditions.

Tokyo is a huge sprawling city, but it’s served by one of the world’s best public transportation systems. Here are all the details you’ll need to get around Tokyo easily.

By Public Transportation

Tokyo’s subways and trains are the best way to get around Tokyo. Stops are frequent, and the vast majority of tourist sites can be accessed via these systems. Rides typically cost a few dollars, but will vary by distance. Here is a map of the stations serviced. Don’t worry about scheduling your trip too much, though — Tokyo’s rail system is typically on time and stops are frequent. Please refer to HyperDia  for operating hours.

While you can buy individual tickets, the easiest and best way to use Tokyo’s subways and train is with a Pasmo or Suica card. These can be bought at many train/subway stations or convenience stores. You simply swipe the card over the reader when entering and leaving the system. The fare will automatically be deducted from your card, and the machine will show the remaining balance. It’s also easy to top up your balance at the automated kiosks.

Note: Avoid riding subways and trains during rush hours (7:30-9:30 am and 5:00-8:00 pm), or be prepared to squeeze in!

Tokyo’s taxis are an excellent way to get around the city, especially outside of rush hour or if you have to go somewhere that’s not close to a train or subway station. However, be aware that they’re not cheap: fares start around $4.

Tokyo’s buses are extensive and efficient, but they’re not ideal for tourists. If you do use them, note that the same Pasmo or Suica cards can be used for rides. For more information regarding fares and schedules, visit the  Toei Bus website .

Hot Tip: If you can’t find the place you’re looking for when you get there, look up! Stores can often be located above ground floor.

While many people in Japan do speak English, it is always helpful to know a few key phrases before traveling to a different country.

1. Arigatou Gozaimasu

You’ll be saying “thank you” a lot, so it’s the perfect place to begin.

2. Sumimasen

“Excuse me” is an important expression in any language, and Japanese is no exception.

3. Onegaishimasu

This means “please.” Use this when ordering food, asking for something, or requesting help.

“Yes/No.” Pretty self-explanatory! Hai can also signify that you understand something.

5. Okaikei (onegaishimasu)

“Check please!” Very useful at restaurants and cafes. Can be combined with sumimasen to get the waiter’s attention as well.

6. Kore wa ikura desuka

Ikura means “how much.” Ikura desuka is a phrase that can be used even if you don’t know the name of a product in Japanese. Kore means “this;” when combined with a little gesturing toward an item, you’re asking “how much is this?”. A shop owner will typically respond by typing the number in a calculator or writing it down for you.

7. Gochisousama deshita

“Thank you for the meal.” This phrase is polite and used after a meal to show your appreciation.

8. Ohayou Gozaimasu

The formal way of saying “good morning.”

9. Konnichiwa 

Konnichiwa is the both formal and informal way to say “hello.” It can apply to morning, noon, and afternoon. It’s a pretty broad way of greeting someone, so mastering this would be useful.

10. Konbanwa

Similar to konninchiwa, konbanwa consists of both the formal and informal ways to say “good evening.” This phrase applies to when the sun goes down and at night time.

With these phrases, you’ll be able to navigate many simple interactions in Tokyo!

You may also be wondering about understanding the Japanese writing system. The good news is that most restaurants have an English menu, but don’t underestimate the usefulness of sign language and gesturing. In addition, most street signs are also written in English. If you plan on taking a taxi, it is useful to have your hotel concierge write down any places you are going as well.

Another tip is to download Google Translate in Japanese, which allows you to access translations offline. Simply open up the camera function and it will translate words over the existing text. This isn’t always reliable since Kanji is often “stylized,” but it’s a good thing to have in a jam.

Tokyo is huge, so it’s important to stay somewhere convenient. Without a doubt, the best parts of the city are those near Tokyo Station and in the 2 big urban hubs on the west side: Shinjuku and Shibuya. These are all located near the Yamanote Line, which is the most important form of transport in the city. Here is our guide on picking a neighborhood, along with some quality places to stay in each.

1. Shinjuku

Shinjuku is the best place to stay in Tokyo, especially on the west side of the station. This is one of the city’s biggest transport hubs, and it’s on the all-important Yamanote Line. There are several huge department stores, large electronics shops, thousands of restaurants, and Tokyo’s best bookshop: Kinokuniya. Plus, there are plenty of sights nearby.

🏨 Where to Stay:

• Park Hyatt Tokyo
• Hilton Tokyo
• Citadines Shinjuku Tokyo
• Hyatt Regency Tokyo

2. Tokyo Station

The Tokyo Station/Marunouchi area is not only the city’s main transport hub, but it’s a great place to stay as well. Here, you’ve got the most important train station, including the terminal station of the Shinkansen line (for easy access to other parts of Japan). Within easy walking distance you have all the city’s main department stores in Ginza, Nihombashi, etc. Nearby, you’ve got the Imperial Palace and adjoining parks, and the area is literally awash with restaurants!

• Courtyard by Marriott Tokyo Station
• Marunouchi Hotel
• The Tokyo Station Hotel

Shibuya is another huge shopping and transport hub on the west side of the Yamanote Line. It’s pretty similar to Shinjuku: convenient transport connections (including the Yamanote Line), plenty of shops and restaurants, and lots of attractions. It’s just slightly less busy than Shinjuku and a bit more youth-oriented.

• Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel
• Granbell Hotel Shibuya
• Shibuya Creston Hotel

Hot Tip: If you enjoy unique accommodations, check out these boutique hotels in Tokyo .

4. Roppongi

Roppongi is another great place to stay, but it’s slightly less convenient for travelers as it is not on the Yamanote Line. If you rate great dining, great nightlife, and plenty of attractions highly, then you should strongly consider staying in Roppongi. This is the sexiest and most cosmopolitan part of the city, and it’s where the big money (both Japanese and foreign) eats and drinks.

• Grand Hyatt Tokyo
• Ritz Carlton Tokyo
• ANA Intercontinental Tokyo

Asakusa is the spiritual heart of Tokyo. It’s home to the city’s most popular Buddhist temple: Senso-ji. It’s also one of the last places in the city where you can feel the vibe of Old Tokyo.

• The Gate Hotel
• Ryokan Kamogawa
• Asakusa View Hotel

6. Ebisu & Meguro

Ebisu and Meguro are small urban hubs on the southwest side of the Yamanote Line, and would be a great base for return travelers to Tokyo. These areas are considered the most desirable places to live by Tokyo’s fashionable and wealthy elite. There are a few hotels in these areas that allow you to enjoy the things locals love: great cafes, hip restaurants and bars, boutique shopping, and pleasant strolling on attractive streets.

• The Westin Tokyo
• Sheraton Miyako Hotel Tokyo

7. Shinagawa

Shinagawa is a major transport hub at the southern end of the Yamanote Line. It’s not the most exciting district, but it’s right on the loop line and the Tokaido Shinkansen line, so it’s quite convenient to stay here (especially if you plan to hop on and off the Shinkansen). There are several excellent hotels here that take advantage of the area’s excellent transport connections.

• Intercontinental The Strings Tokyo
• Shinagawa Prince Hotel
• Tokyo Marriott

Ginza was Tokyo’s first Western-style shopping district, and it’s still where the old money shops. The wide boulevards and narrow lanes of Ginza are lined with high-end boutiques, nice department stores, and exclusive restaurants. Its location near the Tsukiji Fish Market makes that 5:00 am alarm to see the tuna auction a little easier to bear!

• Courtyard by Marriott Tokyo Ginza Station
• Remm Hibiya
• The Peninsula Hotel Tokyo

9. Shiodome

A short distance south of Tokyo Station, Shiodome is a tight collection of high-rise office and hotel towers. It’s a short walk from here to Shimbashi Station, which is only 2 stops from Tokyo Station on the Yamanote Line. It’s not too inconvenient a location for transportation, and there are some good places to eat around here.

• Conrad Tokyo
• Park Hotel Tokyo
• Royal Park Hotel

10. Akihabara

The world’s largest electronics bazaar and center of otaku (geek) culture, Akihabara (“Akiba”) must be seen to be believed! Nearby Kanda is home to temples, shrines, and some good restaurants.

• Akihabara Washington Hotel
• Remm Akihabara

There is no shortage of things to do and see in Tokyo. For a first-time visitor, here are some of the highlights.

1. Tokyo National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum features one of the largest and best collections of art and archaeological artifacts in Japan, made up of over 110,000 individual items including nearly 100 national treasures. In addition, visiting temporary exhibitions are also held regularly (visit their website for dates). Helpful English information and audio guides are available.

ℹ Visit: Hours vary by day; check out their website for specifics. Tickets are 620 JPY for adults, 410 JPY for college students, and free for those 18 and under and 70+.

🚆 Get There: Located at 13-9 Uenokoen, Taitō, Tokyo 110-8712, Japan in Ueno Park. The closest station is Ueno.

2. Meiji-Jingu

The Meiji Jingu, or Meiji Shrine, is one of the most important tourist attractions in Tokyo. Surrounded by the forest, this Shinto shrine combines traditional Japanese architecture with a love for nature. This place is a relaxing oasis in busy Tokyo, and traditional weddings can often be seen here. See the Tips and Tricks section below for some important things to keep in mind when visiting a shrine.

ℹ Visit:  Open sunrise to sunset. Free to enter.

🚆 Get There: Located at 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-8557, Japan. The closest station is Meiji-jingu-mae or Harajuku.

3. Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace is the Emperor of Japan’s primary residence. Far more than just a single palace, the area is a sprawling park occupying a staggering amount of land in the heart of the metropolis. The castle itself is only open on January 2 for the New Year’s Greeting and December 23 for the Emperor’s Birthday.

Many of the outer gardens are open and free to the public, allowing you to stroll through green parks. In April, when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, this becomes one of the best spots in the city for photography. Rent a boat to explore the moat!

ℹ Visit:  Open from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm daily except Mondays and Fridays.

🚆 Get There: Located at 1-1 Chiyoda, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan. The closest station is Takebashi.

4. Explore Harajuku

Harajuku is the center of Japan’s most extreme teenage cultures and fashion styles, but also offers shopping for adults and some historic sights. The focal point of Harajuku’s teenage culture is Takeshita Dori (Takeshita Street) and its side streets, which are lined by many trendy shops, fashion boutiques, used clothing stores, crepe stands, and fast food outlets geared toward trend-conscious teens. This is also an amazing place to people-watch!

ℹ Visit: No hours, but try to avoid weekends as it gets too crowded to enjoy.

🚆 Get There:  Located at 1 Chome-19 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo, 150-0001, Japan. The closest station is Harajuku.

5. Shinjuku Gyoen

Shinjuku Gyoen (or Garden) is a great place to escape from the craziness of Tokyo to admire and meditate in the beauty of nature. It has many separate themed gardens: French, English, traditional Japanese, and more. It becomes especially striking during the cherry blossom season! Go to their website for details on predicted blooms.

ℹ Visit: Admission is 200 JPY. Open 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. Closed Mondays.

🚆 Get There: Located at 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-0014, Japan. There are 3 gates to enter the park, so the closest station will vary.

6. Yayoi Kusuma Museum

This recently-opened museum showcases the work of the well-known Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Her unmistakable touches include large red polka dots, mirrors in the elevators, and a bulbous mosaic pumpkin sculpture on the top floor. Only 50 visitors are admitted at a time during 4 90-minute slots per day, so make reservations in advance on the website .

ℹ Visit: Open Thursday – Saturday from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm.

🚆 Get There: Located at 107 Bentencho, Shinjuku, Tokyo 162-0851, Japan. The closest station is Ushigome-yanagichō.

7. Senso-ji Temple

Japan is home to thousands of temples, but the oldest of them all is the Sensoji Temple in Tokyo. During the Second World War, much of the temple was destroyed, but it was rebuilt afterward in the original style. The entrance to the temple is the enormous Thunder Gate with hanging lamps, and it is the base of an annual festival held there each spring.

ℹ Visit: Open sunrise to sunset. The temple is free to enter.

🚆 Get There: Located at 2 Chome-3-1 Asakusa, Taitō, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan. The closest station is Asakusa.

8. Shibuya Crossing

Giant neon screens above display advertisements in bold colors with flashing lights, and the pedestrian crossing is flooded with people at every change of the stoplight. You might recognize the Shibuya area from films or TV, because it’s the perfect way to convey the population density of this enormous city. Sit in the Starbucks above the crossing for a bird’s eye view.

ℹ Visit: You can go there any time, but rush hour will be the craziest.

🚆 Get There:  Arrive at Shibuya Station and take Exit 8 toward Hachiko Square.

9. Tokyo Skytree

The Tokyo Skytree is a television broadcasting tower and landmark of Tokyo. With a height of 634 meters, it is the tallest structure in Japan and the second tallest in the world at the time of its completion. The highlight of the Tokyo Skytree are its 2 enclosed observation decks, which offer spectacular views out over Tokyo from 350 and 450 meters up.

ℹ Visit: Open from 8:00 am – 10:00 pm daily. The entrance fee is 2,060 JPY for the first observatory, an additional 1,030 JPY for the second observatory, and 510 yen for reservations in advance .

🚆 Get There:  Located at 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan. The closest stations are Tokyo Skytree and Oshiage.

An ultra-modern area for residents and businesses alike, the Odaiba district is your go-to place for pleasure cruising, shopping, and general seaside fun. The man-made island built in Tokyo Bay was originally created by the Edo shogunate to protect Tokyo from the threat of marine attacks, but today it serves as an entertainment hub for the entire family. Make sure you go in the evening to see the Rainbow Bridge light up at night!

ℹ Visit:  Always open to walk around and explore. There are activities you can do there that will cost extra.

🚆 Get There:  You can reach Odaiba on the Yurikamome Line at the stations of Odaiba-Kaihinkoen, Daiba, Fune-no-Kagakukan, Telecom Center, and Aomi. You can also ride a water bus to the area from the Rinkai Line’s Tokyo Teleport Station.

If you want unique and quirky, there isn’t a city that can better deliver! There are as many unusual things to do in Tokyo as there are lists of them, and whether you’re visiting for the first time or the tenth, there’s always something new to try. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

1. Green Tea Ceremony & Liquor Tasting

The Sakurai Tea Experience at Souen is a great introduction to green tea ceremonies. Book a session at this beautiful spot and sit back as the master whisks up bitter powdered matcha, steeps delicate sencha leaf tea, or brews aromatic roasted hojicha.  If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, go for the green tea infused liquor tasting with 4 tastings and wagashi (small bites). Selections include rum permeated with hojicha and sencha-infused gin. Go with a friend and try 8 varieties!

Open Monday – Friday from 11:00 am – 11:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am – 8:00 pm. Check out their website for more information.

ℹ Visit: Located at Spiral Building 5th Floor, 5-6-23 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo. Closest Station is Omotesando.

Put the hours you spent playing video games to practical use on the streets of Tokyo with this cosplay go-kart experience. You’ll be set up with costumes, carts, and given a guided tour of the city. Tourists and locals alike will take pictures of you as you zoom through the streets of Tokyo! Be warned: you do still have to observe the rules of the road and must have an international driving license!

ℹ Visit:  They operate out of multiple offices, so pick the location that offers the tour you’re most interested in. Prices run anywhere from 9,000-10,000 JPY, but check their website for tour times and specific prices.

3. Robot Restaurant

Located in Shinjuku’s red light district, the Robot Restaurant is a surreal journey into the weird side of Japanese culture. Lasting for 2 hours, this show involves lots of flashing lights, dancing, singing, and (importantly) robots. After a pre-show drumming performance, head to the main hall for a truly unique experience. I know it’s called a restaurant, but trust me: don’t eat here.

ℹ Visit:  Tickets are 8,000 JPY. The show runs multiple times each day, so visit their  website  for times.

4. Pet Cafes

I’m sure you’ve heard of cat cafes, but Tokyo has plenty of other options for getting your animal fix as well. These cafes became popular because the small living quarters in Japan make it difficult to keep pets in the home. Temporary companions range from rabbits to lizards to hedgehogs and beyond. Depending on your preference, this can be a great way to take a break, grab a drink, and still do something unusual!

I’d encourage you to do your research, as some cafes have come under fire for their treatment of the animals. TimeOut  has a particularly good list of cafes to consider. You typically pay about $10/hour to spend time with the animals, and drinks and snacks will obviously add to the tab.

ℹ Visit: The Akihabara, Ikebukuro, and Kichijoji neighborhoods all have high volumes of cafes, but they can be found throughout Tokyo.

5. Bar Hop in Golden Gai

Golden Gai is an area in Shinjuku made up of 6 alleys tightly packed with independent bars. It’s a great place to grab a drink (or 2) and time travel to an older Tokyo. Half the experience is wandering through and picking a bar that appeals to you. Each small entrance is completely individual, with themes varying from hospitals to toy trolls. Some are covered in stickers, some are pristine and painted, and others are aged and battered.

Some bars do have signs saying “no foreigners,” “no tourists,” or “regulars only.” There are well over 200 bars to choose from, so don’t let that deter you from visiting the area. With many of the buildings housing more than 1 bar, each steep staircase can lead to a completely different experience.

ℹ Visit:  Located at Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku, Kabukicho, １丁目. The closest station is Shinjuku.

6. Ghibli Museum

This museum showcases the work of Studio Ghibli, the Japanese animation studio co-founded by Hayao Miyazaki that produced unforgettable movies like  Spirited Away  and  My Neighbor Totoro . There are a series of rooms with motifs from every single piece of animation produced by Studio Ghibli. All told, you’ll find a children’s museum, a technology museum, and a fine arts museum inside this venue dedicated to the art and technique of animation.

ℹ Visit:  Access is strictly limited to 200 admissions per day for overseas visitors. Tickets must be purchased in advance; they cost 1,000 JPY for adults and are free for those 4 and under. Please see their  website for tickets and pricing.

7. Sumo Stable

Here is your chance to get up close and personal with some uniquely Japanese athletes. Sumo wrestling is a big thing in Japan, but competitions are rare and it can be difficult to get tickets. Instead, watch morning practice in their sumo stable (or beya). There are a few rules to follow should you want to be a fly on the wall: no chatting, no flash photography, no food or drinks inside the stable, and don’t move around once practice has started.

ℹ Visit:  Morning practices start at 5:00 am and usually last 3-4 hours. Most sumo stables are based in the Ryogoku neighborhood. There are 3 that are free and allow visitors: Kasugano Beya, Hakkaku Beya, and Kokonoe Beya.

8. Capsule Hotels

If you’re looking for a cheap yet comfortable place to stay in Tokyo, capsule hotels are abundant and can be found almost anywhere around the city. If you’re not familiar with the concept, a capsule hotel provides a small, person-shaped capsule to sleep in, which is decked out with more amenities than you’d probably expect. Weird and practical — you can’t go wrong checking one of these out.

ℹ Visit:  There are hotels located all over Tokyo, but the capsules are clustered around the main train stations.

9. Vending Machines

No place has embraced the vending machine concept quite like Japan. You can find vending machines all over the country (city or countryside), each packed with both expected and unexpected items. From dirty underwear, work shirts, and electronics to hamburgers and fried chicken, there’s not much you can’t find in a vending machine in Japan.

ℹ Visit: Any street corner! The more unique machines are found in the Akihabara neighborhood.

Living in one of the most volcanically active countries in the world can have its perks, including an abundance of natural hot springs, or onsen. Onsen are the perfect way to relax after a long day of work or sightseeing. You can take a day trip to a hot springs resort (covered below), or you can visit one of the many onsen within Tokyo.

A good option is  Ooedo-Onsen-Monogatari in Odaiba. This is tourist-friendly place where you can choose what type of experience you want and the length of your visit. If you want a traditional experience, there are other places to choose from, but this is a great introduction into Japanese onsen culture and etiquette. They are open from 11:00 am – 9:00 pm daily.

ℹ Visit:  Located at 2 Chome-6-3 Aomi, Koto, Tokyo 135-0064, Japan. The closest station is Telecom Center.

Tokyo is a massive metropolis that doesn’t have just 1 single iconic skyline — it has many. Here some great places to start!

1. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

You might call it the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, but locals refer to it simply as Tochō. It offers an observation platform where you can admire the sprawling district of Shinjuku below you. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji to the west.

ℹ Visit: Access is free.

2. Tokyo Tower

Although it is only the second largest building in Japan, many prefer seeing the views of Tokyo from Tokyo Tower. This is because it’s become a representative icon of Tokyo, the same way the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. The tower measures 332.9 meters in height, and the observatory is located 150 meters up. There is also a special observatory at 250 meters if you really want to catch a glimpse of Tokyo’s rooftops.

ℹ Visit: The fee is 900 JPY for the main observatory and another 700 JPY if you wish to go up to the special observatory.

3. Tokyo City View and Sky Deck

Tokyo City View is the observation deck in Roppongi Hills, adjacent to the Mori Art Museum. It offers impressive 360-degree views of Tokyo and is open from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm (1:00 am on weekends). The outdoor Sky Deck closes at 8:00 pm, and could close unexpectedly depending on the weather as well.

ℹ Visit:  1,800 JPY for observatory access; additional 500 JPY for Sky Deck access.

4. Sky Lounge Stellar Garden

The Sky Lounge Stellar Garden at the Prince Park Tower Hotel in downtown Tokyo offers panoramic views of Minato ward. At just 33 floors up, this sky bar can’t compete with the nearby skyscrapers in terms of height, but it has a unique vantage point and a different perspective on the city.

ℹ Visit: The Prince Park Tower Hotel lies in Shiba Park and is free to enter.

5. Bellovisto

Thanks to its central location and vantage point on the hotel’s 40th floor, Bellovisto offers one of the best views of the city you can get. On a clear day, you may even be able to see Mount Fuji in the distance. Great for both daytime and nighttime vistas.

ℹ Visit:  Bellovisto is the hotel bar of the Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel in Shibuya.

6. Sky Circus – Sunshine60 Observatory

The Sky Circus has found a way to compete with all the other observatories in Tokyo: it offers virtual reality experiences, and the use of modern art installation techniques offers new ways to experience being up high. However, it’s still an observatory at heart, and the views here are nothing short of spectacular. Admission is 1,200 JPY for adults, 900 JPY for students, and 600 JPY for kids.

ℹ Visit:  The Sky Circus sits in the Sunshine City mall/business park and is open from 10:00 am to 8:50 pm.

7. Rooftop Bar

This is the highest bar in Tokyo at 52 stories up.  There are enormous panoramic windows and a view that makes Tokyo Bay and the nearby skyscrapers look fantastic! Rooftop Bar offers photographers a truly unique chance to capture the city, and it’s definitely worth the trip. Reservations can be made  on their website .

ℹ Visit:  Located in the Andaz Hotel.

8. New York Bar

New York Bar is housed on the 52nd floor of the Park Hyatt Tokyo and is well-known to anyone who has seen “Lost in Translation.”  Arrive around 5:00 pm and you won’t have to pay a cover charge. If you’re lucky, they’ll seat you at one of the tables next to the windows! From here, the views of Tokyo at dusk are incredible.

ℹ Visit: Unless you are a hotel guest, a cover charge of 2,400 JPY applies from 8:00 pm on Monday to Saturday, and from 7:00 pm on Sunday nights. A dress code also applies at all times.

9. Odaiba Beach

10. kitte rooftop garden.

This is a commercial facility built on the site of the old Tokyo Central Post Office. The garden on the rooftop of the 6-floor building is open to the public with no admission fees, so anyone can come and enjoy the night view. It’s a great spot to see the lit-up Tokyo Station Building and the trains as they pass through Tokyo Station.

ℹ Visit:  The building is open until 11:00 pm on weekdays and 10:00 pm on weekends, but the Tokyo Station Building is only lit up until 9:00 pm…so be careful you don’t miss it.

There are restaurants and cafes on every single corner on Tokyo, so these recommendations are barely scratching the surface. In addition, with all of the Michelin-rated options, a food tour of Tokyo can get pretty expensive! Here are a couple more inexpensive options that will help you experience the food culture of Tokyo without breaking the bank.

1. Yakitori in Piss Alley

You can’t miss Piss Alley while you’re in town (also known as Memory Lane, for the less crude). Once the traditional “relief” spot for drunken partiers in the area, today the alley has cleaned up its act, playing host to a great selection of yakitori joints and tiny bars. You really can’t go wrong with any choice, but always take a look at where the locals are eating for a sure thing! Head down here in the evening for some amazing food and a taste of “old Japan.” Expect to pay about $20/person for a couple rows of skewers and a beer.

ℹ Visit:  Go in the evenings to sit side-by-side with the salarymen of Tokyo.

🚆 Get There: The closest subway station is Shinjuku, taking exit B16. The street is directly north of the station.

2. Soba at Kanda Matsuya

Soba is the traditional noodle in Tokyo, and nowhere is that heritage preserved better than at Kanda Matsuya. Founded 130 years ago and housed in superb wooden premises, it’s a living legend. It’s all about the noodles here, which are rolled and cut by hand in-house by the master’s son. They do have an English menu, so be sure to ask for it when you arrive. The zarusoba and gomasoba are both must-haves!

ℹ Visit:  Opening hours are Monday – Friday 11:00 am – 8:00 pm, Saturday 11:00 am – 7:00 pm. Closed Sundays.

🚆 Get There: Located at 1 Chome-13 Kanda Sudacho, Chiyoda, Tokyo 101-0041, Japan. The closest stations are Ogawamachi on the Shinjuku Line and Awajicho on the Marunouchi Line.

3. Ramen Street in Tokyo Station

Among the shops and restaurants in the labyrinths beneath Tokyo Station, there is one special corner dedicated to ramen: Tokyo Ramen Street. Ramen Street is home to 8 of the best ramen shops in all of Tokyo! The location is very convenient for travelers, but unfortunately this also means there will be queues at whichever restaurant you choose.

There are now a good mix of options, from traditional types to some more contemporary styles too. Whether you’re new to ramen or a connoisseur, there will be something new and exciting to try. When ordering, most places have pictures of the ramen on their vending machines, so you can go by photo or compare with an English menu if available. Some even have “#1” or “most popular” labels, so you can always opt for that!

ℹ Visit:  Hours vary by store, but are generally open from 11:00 am – 11:00 pm

🚆 Get There:  Located at B1F Yaesu South Exit, Tokyo Station. Look for the signs for “Ramen Street.”

4. Melon Pan at Kagetsudo Asakusa

Melon Pan is the perfect snack after wandering around Senso-ji Temple, and Kagestsudo has perfected it. There are 4 locations around Asakusa, but the convenience of the Kaminarimon store makes this location the best. For about $2, you can experience both the crispy exterior (with crystallized sugar) and the fluffy interior that is Melon Pan.

ℹ Visit: Opening hours are Monday – Sunday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Melon Pan often sell out though, so go early!

🚆 Get There: Located in Kaminarimon Yanagikoji, aka “Souvenir Alley.” The closet station is Asakusa Station on the Ginza Line, Exit 1.

5. Okonomiyaki at Sakuratei

Okonomiyaki is a cabbage-based pancake, fried on a hot griddle, and smothered in sauce — it literally translates to “grill what you like.” There are many combinations and styles; at Sakuratei in Harajuku, you can try making your own! After it’s grilled, finish off the okonomiyaki with seaweed, mayonnaise, and Bonita flakes found at the table.

ℹ Visit: Open 11:00 am – 11:00 pm every day

🚆 Get There: Located at 3 Chome-20-1 Jingumae Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001, Japan. The closest station is Meiji-Jingumae Station, serviced by the Chiyoda and Fukutoshin lines.

6. Gyoza at Harajuku Gyouzarou

A perfect meal after walking around Takeshita-dori, Harajuku Gyozaro is a no-frills shop. There are just 2 styles of gyoza dumplings available: fried or steamed, at 290 JPY for 6 of them (that’s less than $3!). Most diners sit around the rectangular-shaped counter with the “kitchen” in the middle, where cooks prepare the dumplings in clock-work fashion: fry, steam, pan-fried, scoop, serve. But the word is out…get there early or be prepared to wait! Cash only.

ℹ 🚆 Visit:  Opening hours are Monday – Saturday 11:30 am – 4:30 am, Sunday 11:30 am – 10:00 pm

🚆 Get There:  Located at 6−2−4 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo. The closest station is Meiji-Jingumae Station, serviced by the Chiyoda and Fukutoshin lines.

7. Tonkatsu at Tonkatsu Marugo

Tonkatsu is a thick pork fillet covered in flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs, then deep fried — and Marugo has some of the best in Tokyo. This tonkatsu is carefully fried to bring out the flavor, sweetness, and juiciness. The crispiness of the panko and the aroma of the oil come together to make an exquisite dish. You can eat it in whatever style you wish: use the shop’s original sauce, salt, grated daikon radish, and/or wasabi soy sauce that are all available.

Marugo has a line no matter what time of day, so be prepared to wait. There are English menus available. The tonkatsu set meal costs around 2,100 JPY, and it’s cash only.

ℹ Visit:  Lunch from 11:30 am – 3:00 pm, dinner from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Closed on Mondays, as well as the first and third Tuesday.

🚆 Get There:  Located at 1 Chome-8-14 Sotokanda, Chiyoda, Tokyo 101-0021, Japan. The closest station is Akihabara.

8. Tempura at Fukamachi

Nestled in the Marunouchi district not far from the Imperial Palace, Fukamachi offers tantalizing Tokyo tempura in a refined ambiance. All of the fresh ingredients are delicately fried one by one so customers can enjoy the authentic taste of tempura. One of their specialties is “uni” or “sea urchin” fried inside “oba” (shiso) leaves. There are multiple set menus to choose from for both lunch and dinner.

Fukamachi has been awarded 1 star by Michelin Guide Tokyo for continuous years, so make reservations! This can be done by contacting your concierge in Tokyo or paying for a service like Voyagin .

ℹ Visit: Open Tuesday to Sunday from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm and 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Closed on Mondays and the first and third Sunday of every month.

🚆 Get There: Located at 2-5-2, Kyobashi, Chuo-ku Tokyo, Sub Jude Glin Kyobashi Shinohara Building 1F. The closest station is Kyobashi, on the Ginza Line.

9. Matcha Parfaits at Saryo Tsujiri Daimaru Tokyo Store

Saryo Tsujiri is a sweets cafe located near Tokyo Station. They have a variety of selections in their menu, including mochi, red bean and mochi soup, matcha mousse, and combo menus with matcha desserts and pure matcha. But their main focus is the matcha parfaits, with more than 10 different types available to order.

The parfait includes matcha ice cream, matcha jelly, matcha mousse, mochi, and many other toppings depending on which one you order. They also have seasonal parfaits using sakura and strawberries during spring.

ℹ Visit:  Open Saturday – Wednesday from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm, and Thursday – Friday from 10:00 am – 9:00 pm.

🚆 Get There: It is located inside the Daimaru Tokyo Department Store, which is a 4-minute walk from Tokyo Station.

10. Konbini Meal

This isn’t your typical convenience store fare! The corner stores (konbini) in Tokyo have a lot of really delicious meals for 120-370 JPY that make for a cheap lunch or late night snack. Be sure to try some of the hot selections, as well as the freshly-made dessert options. It’s completely possible to piece together a great meal for less than $10!

ℹ Visit: Opening hours vary, but many konbini are open 24/7. Popular chains include 7-Eleven, Lawson, and Family Mart.

🚆 Get There: On every street corner — seriously.

Once a source of much complaining among foreign residents and visitors alike, Tokyo’s coffee scene has undergone nothing short of a revolution in this decade. The capital is now one of the world’s great coffee cities, with more specialty shops than most people can hope to visit in a lifetime. Here are a few great options for getting caffeinated!

1. Cafe de l’Ambre

No matter the day or time, Cafe de l’Ambre will be packed. The interior looks like it was last remodeled in the early 1980s, although some of the equipment is clearly much older. And it has been around a long time — it’s a Ginza institution.

Take your pick between a lone blend coffee and 30-ish single origin varieties, including a good number of aged coffees. There is an English menu, so you have no excuse not to try something a little odd, including an 18-year-old Brazilian Bourbon cup.

ℹ Visit:  Open Monday to Saturday from 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm, and Sunday from 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm.

🚆 Get There:  Located at 8 Chome-10-15 Ginza, Chūō, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan. The closest station is Shinbashi.

2. Little Nap Coffee Stand

You might need a pick me up after wandering around Yoyogi Park, and Little Nap Coffee Stand is a perfect solution! The space is quite small; even if it weren’t packed with turntables, it would be difficult to fit more than 5. Coffee shops are always great places to get a feel for the local community, and Little Nap is no exception. Check out their website for more information.

ℹ Visit:  Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, closed Mondays.

🚆 Get There:  Located at 5-65-4 Yoyogi, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0053, Japan. The closest stations are Yoyogi-Hachiman or Yoyogi-Gyoen.

3. Davide Coffee

Davide Coffee is located between Ueno and Asakusa. Davide’s espresso blend is a rich, slightly acidic mixture, and the milk is well frothed. They also serve affogato for those looking for a sugar fix with their caffeine. Davide serves light meals in the afternoon and seems to be more of an “after-work hangout” than a coffee bar — you might even have the place to yourself if you go earlier in the day.

The ground floor has a bright orange wall and exudes a busy atmosphere, while the smaller space upstairs is more relaxing. There’s also a basement, which is open for the occasional pop-up shop, exhibition, or other event. Check out their website for more details.

ℹ Visit:  Open Tuesday – Saturday from 11:00 am – 10:00 pm, and Sundays from 11:00 am – 7:00 pm. Closed Mondays.

🚆 Get There: Located at 2 Chome-3-1 Iriya, Taitō-ku, Tōkyō-to 110-0013, Japan. The closest station is Iriya.

4. Turret Coffee

Turret Coffee is a godsend for anyone making an early visit to Tsukiji Market. Located in the outer-market, it’s a great place to caffeinate before you wait for hours in a sushi line! They’re known for their latte art, but also serve espresso in antique sake cups. Turret Coffee has about 5 counter seats and 2 very small tables with chairs.

ℹ Visit:  Open Monday to Saturday from 7:00 am – 6:00 pm, and Sundays from 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm.

🚆 Get There:  Located just near the Hibiya Station exit 1 or 2.

5. Shozo Cafe

Just behind Omotesando Station in Aoyama, a small coffee shop in Commune 246 serves small batch drip coffee from Tochigi Prefecture. There is a shaded outdoor patio and a handful of seats inside as well. Shozo Cafe only serves hand drip, and make sure you try their iced coffee. There are syrups to add, but you probably won’t need them!

ℹ Visit:  Open Monday to Friday from 9:30 am – 6:00 pm, and Saturday to Sunday from 11:30 am – 6:00 pm.

🚆 Get There:  Located at 3丁目-13 Minamiaoyama, 港区 Tokyo 107-0062, Japan. The closest station is Omotesando.

Whether you prefer department-store browsing or rummaging for secondhand treasures, there’s a Tokyo neighborhood or street to meet your shopping needs.

1. Tsukiji Fish Market

One of Tokyo’s must-see locations, Tsukiji Market — the biggest fish market in the world — is where the weird and wonderful bounty of the sea is put on sale each morning. Get up early for the daily 5:00 am tuna auctions, or head down a little later and simply browse the vast market.

Also, don’t pass up the opportunity to eat some of the freshest sushi you’re ever likely to have. If you’re trying to eat at the famous sushi restaurants in the outer market, try to arrive before 7:30 am, or you might not get in!

ℹ Visit: Located at 5 Chome-2-1 Tsukiji, Chūō, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan

Ginza is the affluent shopping district in Tokyo, home to the city’s posh boutiques and gleaming department stores such as the classic Mitsukoshi and Dover Street Market Ginza. There’s also the gleaming new high-fashion mall, Ginza Six. But tucked in between some of the more imposing facades are simpler pleasures, like the fine crafts at Takumi, the gourmet food items at Akoymeya, and the 9 floors of stationery and art supplies at Itoya.

Shopping options in this neighborhood reflect the breadth and depth of Tokyo’s consumer culture, which is equal parts high-fashion glitz and down-to-earth dedication to craft. It’s especially fun to visit at night, when the gleaming storefronts come to life.

ℹ Visit:  This is a large shopping area best accessed via Ginza Station, Ginza-itchome Station, or Higashi-Ginza Station depending on your specific destination.

3. Harajuku

The neighbourhood of Harajuku is home to the famed Harajuku girls (and boys) along with the shopping strip Takeshita-dori. Takeshita-dori runs through Harajuku Station and Meiji-dori, and is a crossroads for street-style cultures. Down this pedestrian-only street, you will find shops specializing in unique styles, such as punk or costumes. Though the market may be more crowded on the weekends, it’s worth visiting for the people-watching.

And then there is Ura-Hara, the maze of backstreets behind Omote-sandō, where you’ll find eccentric little shops and secondhand stores. After Gwen Stefani made Harajuku a household name, it only makes sense to check out the birthplace of this street style.

ℹ Visit: Located at 1 Chome-19 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo, 150-0001, Japan

4. Nakamise-dori in Asakusa

From 1688 to 1735, special permission was granted for people to open shops in the surroundings of the temple in service to visitors. Today, Nakamise Shopping Street has around 90 shops that sell various kinds of Japanese souvenirs, some dating back to the Edo era. Look out for some good bargains on clothes and shoes. You can also buy traditional snacks and dishes that are popular during festivals. Shops are typically open from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.

ℹ Visit: Located at 1 Chome-1-36-3 Asakusa, Taitō, Tokyo, 111-0032, Japan

Shibuya is the fountain of teen trendiness in Japan. If you’re over 30 you might feel way too old here, but just cruise and amuse yourself in the madness. Music shops and cheap, outrageous apparel are everywhere, as are the hip kids who come to primp and pose. Check out the youth-focused fashion at Shibuya 109 or new designers at Fake Tokyo, and don’t miss browsing the floors of homewares, gadgets, and accessories at Tokyu Hands.

Another can’t-miss is the mega Don Quixote store in Shibuya. You can pick up all your souvenirs here, from Japanese knives to every variety of Kit-Kats. Don’t forget to bring your passport to get your tax refund!

ℹ Visit:  To get to Shibuya crossing (a good place to start), head to Shibuya Station and take Exit 8 towards Hachiko Square.

6. Akihabara

The neighborhood of Akihabara is Tokyo’s traditional hub for electronics, and these can still be found in the Akihabara Electric Town district and stores such as Akihabara Radio Center. But the neighborhood has also become increasingly known as a center for otaku (geeks) with shops dedicated to anime, manga, and J-Pop culture. Among the stores catering to this   crowd is the huge Mandarake Complex.

There are also arcades to check out, such as Taito Station. Head to the upper floors where you’ll find some amazing Japanese video game players displaying their skills. While walking around the area, you can’t miss girls dressed up as maids passing out flyers to one of many Maid Cafes; check them out if that’s your thing.

ℹ Visit:  This is a large shopping area best accessed via Akihabara Station.

7. Nogi Shrine Antique Flea Market

On the fourth Sunday of each month, the people of Tokyo (and visitors from all over the world) are anxious to see what goodies are available at Nogi Shrine market. Held on the  s andō road of Nogizaka’s Nogi Shrine, more than 40 shops are set up selling furniture, secondhand clothes, cooking utensils, and other antiques. Get incredible bargains on just about anything. There are also some food stalls selling snacks and other delectable treats just in case you get hungry. Open from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. Check out their website for more information.

ℹ Visit:  Located at 8 Chome-11-27 Akasaka, Minato, Tokyo, 107-0052, Japan

8. Ometosando Hills

Omotesando is a street in Harajuku lined with high-end stores that target fashionable Tokyoites. Ask anyone for Tokyo’s Champs-Elysees, which is the nickname for the broad, tree-lined avenue located south of Takeshita-dōri where you will find Omotesando. Although this isn’t a typical market, in this bustling shopping area you’ll find some items you couldn’t in Tokyo’s other markets.

Many famous international stores offering the very best in shopping and dining experiences have been established here. A wealthy clientele can be seen browsing the famous shops, cafés, boutiques, and restaurants, and it’s a fun experience (even if only to window-shop). Open Monday – Saturday 10:00 am – 9:00 pm, and Sundays from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm. Visit their website for more details.

ℹ Visit:  Located at 4-12-10 4 Chome−12 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo, 150-0001, Japan

9. Heiwajima Antique Fair

Heiwajima Antique Fair is a 3-day event held 5 times a year in the months of March, May, June, September, and December. Heiwajima Antique Fair was established in 1978, making it the oldest antique fair in Japan. It attracts over 280 dealers from all over the country. Since most homes in Japan do not have a garage, the citizens look forward to these events to sell and purchase items.

You will find products like pottery, furniture, textiles, jewelry, paintings, glass, lacquer, and other items. Try going on the final day where you will get the best deals. They have an English website that contains dates and times of future fairs, so if you’re in Tokyo during one, make sure to check it out!

ℹ Visit:  Located at 6 Chome-1-1 Heiwajima, Ōta, Tokyo, 143-0006, Japan

10. Boro-Ichi Street Market

Dating back to some 430 years, Boro-Ichi Street Market is the place to shop if you’re looking for antique kimonos, toys, and clocks, as well as a variety of other items. A trip to this market is not just ideal for shopping — you will also be taking part in a dynamic folk-cultural activity.

In its early beginnings in the 1570s, the market was established as a “free market” where taxes were removed to boost the economy. Now it has grown into a biannual 2-day event set on December 15-16 and January 15-16 attracting over 700 sellers. Make sure to go if you’re in Tokyo during the winter!

ℹ Visit:  Located at 1 Chome-23-1 Setagaya, Tokyo, 154-0017, Japan

1. JR Rail Pass

This pass is only cost-effective if you plan to explore outside of Tokyo, but it can also be used for free travel on the JR lines within Tokyo. It can only be purchased outside of the country, so make sure you do this before you arrive in Japan!

2. 100 Yen Shops

There are many 100 Yen shops in Japan where you can grab set meals, groceries, water, toiletries, and household items. This is where you want to buy anything you need to eat and shop on a budget!

3. Adapters Not Required

Plugs are flat 2-pinned, so don’t worry about bringing a plug adapter if you’re traveling from the U.S.

4. Cash Society

Many smaller shops don’t accept cards, so it’s good to have cash on you. 7-Eleven is always a sure spot to find an ATM.

5. Garbage Cans (or the Lack Thereof)

Public garbage cans are incredibly rare. Japanese women stash a baggie in their handbag to hold onto garbage until they get home.

6. Tax Free

Tokyo is one of the best shopping destinations in the world. Tourists can take advantage of tax-free shopping, which is available to foreign tourists at licensed stores when making purchases of over 5,000 yen. A passport is required when shopping tax-free.

7. Visiting a Shrine

These are religious sites, so there are some important things to remember. Behave calmly and respectfully. At the purification fountain near the shrine’s entrance, take one of the ladles provided, fill it with fresh water, and rinse both hands. Then transfer some water into your cupped hand, rinse your mouth, and spit the water beside the fountain. At the offering hall, throw a coin into the offering box, bow deeply twice, clap your hands twice, bow deeply once more, and pray for a few seconds.

8. Trains on Time

In Japan you will find that trains will actually leave at the time they are scheduled to! In other words, don’t think you can be even 1 minute late — you’ll miss your train.

9. Breakfast

Japanese people think breakfast is an important meal, so hotels (regardless of the budget) do their best to serve up a delicious breakfast. Even a cheap hotel  will offer a good solid breakfast to start your day, and a more expensive hotel will have a more extravagant breakfast. Take advantage!

10. Suica/Pasmo Card

If you have leftover money on your subway card, remember that many vending machines and convenience stores will also accept these cards.

1. Olympic City

Tokyo was selected as the host city for the 2020 Olympics.

2. (Every) Corner Store

Japan has nearly twice as many 7-Elevens as the  United States , with 2,079 stores in Tokyo alone.

3. Catchy Tunes

Tokyo train stations each have their own unique theme song.

As the annual Cherry Blossom Festival nears, television and radio reports include information on the “cherry blossom front,” or the forecast of the cherry blossoms across the different regions of Japan.

5. Rush Hour Traffic

Oshiya, or “pushers,” are employed in some of Tokyo’s railway stations. These station attendants literally push people onto crowded trains during rush hour.

6. A Disney First

Tokyo Disneyland was Disney’s first park outside the U.S. The resort employs over 20,000 people.

7. Bright Lights, Big City

Tokyo has more neon signs than anywhere else in the world. A trademark image in Tokyo is entire streets full of neon lights!

8. From the Movies

Godzilla has attacked and destroyed Tokyo no less than 28 times.

9. Seafood Is King 

Every day at Tsukiji Fish Market, 5 million pounds of seafood (worth roughly $28 million USD) are sold.

10. University Town

Tokyo contains over 100 universities and colleges, giving it the world’s highest concentration of higher learning institutions. One-third of Japan’s university students attend school in Tokyo.

1. Disneyland and DisneySea

One of the most unique Disney sites in the world, Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are markedly different from the other Disney theme parks dotted across the world. Aside from just enjoying all the usual rides and Disney stuff, you can visit the only DisneySea in the world here, try the variety of popcorn flavors, and enjoy all the matching costumes of the park guests. These 2 parks are the only ones in the world not wholly owned by Disney (although they do have creative control), so it is a great chance to see the Japanese twist on the classics.

Around 2 hours north of Tokyo on the Tobu Nikko line lies the ancient forest and town of Nikko, whose 103 religious structures form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the Tosho-gu shrine, halls commissioned by the Tokugawa family (the family that ruled Edo Japan until the Meiji Restoration) are sure to awe. If it isn’t too crowded, you can really lose yourself in the history of feudal Japan among the towering cedars and ancient shrines. Other attractions include the Shin-kyo Bridge and the Kanman-ga-Fuchi Abyss, a wooded path protected by statues.

3. Kamakura

While not exactly around the corner, thanks to Japan’s excellent rail system it’s entirely possible to visit Kamakura in just 1 day from Tokyo. The city is famous for its extremely high concentration of Zen, Buddhist, and Shinto temples, thanks to its rich history and former title as the nation’s capital. Kamakura has its own mini rail system to take visitors to all the different temples and down to the sea, so getting around is a breeze.

Besides the required visit to the Daibutsu or Giant Buddha, you won’t want to miss seeing Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu for its sprawling grounds, and Jomyo-ji for its garden and traditional teahouse.

Nestled in the shadow of Mount Fuji, Hakone is a one-stop destination for a side of Japan you won’t get in Tokyo: spectacular rolling mountain ranges, hot springs, slightly-unnerving ropeway rides, and cruises in faux-18th-century pirate ships? All of these things can be packed into 1 solid day. Even better, if it’s a clear day, you’ll get excellent views of Fuji-san.

Daytime admission for the area’s many onsen starts at 1,900 JPY. Be sure to track down a black egg cooked in one of the bubbling sulfur springs — legends say that 1 egg extends your life by 7 years.

5. Mt. Takao

Another popular day trip from Tokyo is Mount Takao. It takes less than an hour to get to Takaosanguchi Station on the Keio line. Visitors can enjoy a nature hike on one of the many trails that ascend the mountain, and if you’re not feeling particularly adventurous there’s a cable car that carries passengers part of the way up. The ancient Yakuo-in, a Buddhist temple established in 744, is one of Takao-san’s must-sees.

Be sure to try a tenguyaki, which is a taiyaki with the face of Tengu: the long-nosed goblin, god of mischief, and patron saint of martial arts who roams around Mount Takao.

Although Japan is generally known for being one of the safest countries in the world, visitors should always stay alert. The general crime rate in Japan is well below the U.S. national average, and Tokyo, like all of Japan, is generally a safe place for visitors. Still, as in other big cities around the world, visitors to Tokyo sometimes become victims of crime, and it’s important to exercise caution. While violent crime is rare, it does exist.

Emergency Contacts in Tokyo

• To report an accident or a crime, call 110  or locate the closest police box (Koban).
• To report a fire or ask for an ambulance or rescue services, contact the nearest fire station at 119.
• Emergency telephone numbers can be called from home phones, mobile phones, and public phones. When making an emergency call from a public phone, neither money nor a pre-paid telephone card is necessary.

Keep Safe in the City

• Pickpockets and thieves operate all over the world; be aware of your surroundings.
• If you are walking along the street, keep valuables on your other side. Thieves in cars and motorcycles have been known to grab purses and bags from pedestrians.
• Never accept drinks from strangers, and always keep yours with you in crowded bars. This is especially important to keep in mind in the nightlife districts of Tokyo, Roppongi, and Kabuki-cho.
• Avoid deserted areas, especially at night.
• Remember that possession or use of illegal drugs (including marijuana) are both serious crimes in Japan. Convictions for drug offenses result in lengthy sentences.

Visiting Public Places

• Never leave your bags unattended.
• During peak times, the subway can be very crowded. If you can’t avoid travel during these times, be aware of your bags at all times. In addition, there are women-only subway cars available to use (usually the last train car).
• If you’ve left your belongings on a train, ask a station attendant for help. It makes the search easier if you remember the destination of the train and the train car you were on.
• If you’ve left your belongings on a bus or taxi, contact (or have your hotel contact) a local service office of the bus company or the taxi company.

At Your Hotel

• Always keep your passports and other valuables in a locked room safe if available.
• Hotels are open to the public, and at large properties security may not be able to screen everyone entering. Always lock your room door. Don’t assume that once inside your hotel you’re automatically safe.

Emergency Alerts

Before you travel, it’s always a good idea to check the U.S. State Department’s website for any country-specific warnings.

If a major disaster occurs in Tokyo, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government will establish the Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Information Center for Foreign Residents to support foreign residents in Tokyo. The Information Center will collect all relevant information and provide it to local authorities for their disaster information service to non-Japanese residents in their community.

The Information Center will also dispatch volunteer translators to such local information services, as well as medical institutions and emergency shelters for language support. The details will be provided to hotels and other places that tourists frequent.

Japan is an earthquake-prone country. Be prepared and don’t panic when it happens! The Earthquake Early Warning or  Kinkyu Jishin Sokuho  is issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency immediately after it detects earthquakes with a seismic intensity of “5-lower” and over (on the Japan seismic scale). Ensure your safety as soon as you see or hear the warning on TV, radio, or loudspeakers. Details will follow in both Japanese and English.

For any emergencies involving U.S. citizens, contact the U.S. Embassy Tokyo or one of the Consulates; check their website for the closest location.

There has never been a better time to visit Tokyo. With preparations for the 2020 Olympics well under way, Tokyo is poised to continue being one of the best cities in the world for many years to come. Japan is not a country to be intimated by either — be polite, speak a little Japanese, and you’ll enjoy an astonishing city!

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Home » Asia » Japan » Tokyo

EPIC Backpacking Tokyo Travel Guide (Budget Tips • 2024)

Tokyo is a city of superlatives. It’s the largest, most populated city in the world, and a whopping 38 million people call Tokyo home. That means there are more people living in Tokyo than there are in the entire nation of Canada!

Tokyo is also a city of contrasts, where you’ll find futuristic skyscrapers towering over ancient shrines. Walking around Tokyo, you’ll spot women wearing traditional kimonos around Sensoji Temple.

You’ll also see young girls rocking a gothic or punk look in the fashionable area of Harajuku. Japanese salary-men, while all business during the day, loosen their ties and themselves over several beers after work.

In this Tokyo travel guide, I’ll dive into all that the Japanese capital has to offer. You’ll get an idea of how much it costs to travel to Tokyo, figure out the best areas to stay in, and get an awesome 3-day itinerary.

This is probably my favourite city I’ve ever visited, and I’m stoked to share it with you.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Why Visit Tokyo?

A sample 3-day itinerary for tokyo, 10 top things to do in tokyo, backpacker accommodation in tokyo, backpacking tokyo costs, best time to visit tokyo, staying safe in tokyo, how to get into and around tokyo, how to get in and around tokyo, working and volunteering in tokyo japan, nightlife in tokyo, some unique experiences in tokyo, faqs about backpacking in tokyo japan, final thoughts on backpacking in tokyo.

Tokyo is a city that you could spend your entire life exploring without seeing it all. The city is home to a wealth of historical and cultural attractions, tranquil parks and gardens, bustling markets, and some of the world’s best culinary and nightlife scenes. It is the pinnacle of backpacking Japan .

In reality, Tokyo is several cities rolled into one. There are 23 different wards that all combine to make this mega-city, each with its own unique vibe. If you thought the five boroughs of New York were different, wait until you explore the different wards of Tokyo.

Having travelled all over Asia, I can say without a shadow of a doubt that Japan is one of a kind. The people, the history, Japanese culture, the traditions, the crazy technology, everywhere you look there is something that surprises and amazes you.

In addition to friendly folks, you’ll also find some of the BEST food in quite possibly the world (sushi and ramen are just the tip of the iceberg), and some of the coolest temples.

What Are the Major Attractions in Tokyo?

In the spring, which is undoubtedly the best time to stay in Japan , you can enjoy cherry blossom season, which adds a whole lot of colour to this magical city for just one week a year.

There are TONS of attractions in Tokyo that can keep you busy for a lifetime. You could spend weeks in this city and still find new things to see and do. But there are some sites that you simply cannot miss:

• Tokyo Tower (you can see Mount Fuji from the top on a clear day).
• Tokyo Disneyland.
• Sensoji Temple.
• Shibuya Crossing.
• Tokyo Skytree.
• A robot restaurant.

With a Tokyo City Pass , you can experience the best of Tokyo at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

How Long to Spend in Tokyo?

A  weekend in Tokyo  is the ideal amount of time to spend exploring this truly amazing city. That will give you enough time to hit the main sights, enjoy all the amazing Japanese food, and even have a night out!

If you happen to have a bit more time on your hands, 3 days in Tokyo is yet another itinerary sweet spot. That will give you time to really get a feel for traditional Japanese culture, or take a trip out to Mount Fuji .

UNPLAN Shinjuku

Shinjuku is the beating heart of Tokyo and the ideal place to stay for those who want to explore all of Japan. It's close enough to the action, yet quiet at night, so you can still get a good night's sleep.

If you are travelling Japan, then Tokyo makes for the perfect starting point. Visiting Tokyo in three days is definitely possible. You’ll be able to fit in the main hotspots of the city and still have a relaxed stay. However, if you want to experience Tokyo properly, you’ll need to stay for at least five days. I’ve compiled the ULTIMATE list of the  10 best day trips from Tokyo to help you make the most out of your Japanese journey.

For example, staying in Yokohama is an epic day trip from Tokyo. It’s home to not one, but two ramen museums and the biggest Chinatown in the world! For a truly memorable experience, consider indulging in a stay at a  Yokohama capsule hotel . They’re a blast and totally unique way to do Japan!

There are many awesome things to see in Tokyo, on and off the beaten track. If your budget and time allow it, explore the city for a bit longer!

Day One in Tokyo: Downtown Tokyo Highlights

For your first day in Tokyo, you’ll want to tick off all the top sites and highlights of the city. For this, you’re going to want to stay in central Tokyo – this is the area inside the Yamanote line on the metro.

The iconic Harajuku district, Shibuya crossing, Ueno Park, Imperial Palace, and Tokyo Tower, can all be accessed from this one line on the metro, which makes exploring really easy.

I would start your day by checking out the Shibuya Crossing and witnessing the world’s largest zebra crossing, and the fast-paced lifestyle of Tokyo. I would consider this one of the most memorable, photogenic and weirdly beautiful places in all of Japan .

It’s busy and overwhelming – which is perfect because it will acclimate you to the life of Tokyo from the get go! Just make sure to avoid it during rush hour.

Next, head over to the Harajuku district where you’ll see iconic fashion, and cute cafes (some maid cafes, some cat cafes, and just some cute ordinary ones too). It’s a great place to wander around the shops and see how the world works here.

Once you’ve experienced all of Harajuku, make your way to Tokyo Tower , the television broadcasting tower, where you can see the amazing Tokyo city view, including a view of Mount Fuji (on a clear day). It’s not guaranteed you will see it, it’s not called the ‘cloudy mountain’ for no reason.

After that, you can check out the Imperial Palace to learn about the history and Japanese culture. By now your feet are probably tired from all the walking, so you’ll want to relax in Ueno Park . It was built on the former grounds of the Keniji Temple and is used to home the wealthiest and biggest family temple that ruled during the Edo Period.

There are peaceful ponds decorated with lotus flowers bobbing at their surface, temple halls, shrines, and rows of the most famous Tokyo cherry blossom trees. It’s a massive park, so just pick a spot that you like and relax.

If you still feel like exploring after, you could head to Akihabara Electric Town for something to eat.

Day Two in Tokyo: Roppongi Hills & Museums

This city loves museums, so go ahead and enjoy yourself wandering around them all. One of my favourite museums is The Miraikan (The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation) which is also where you can see the iconic visual art installation, teamLab Borderless.

The Tokyo National Museum is one of the largest and oldest in the country. This enormous museum, consisting of six buildings and countless exhibitions, is the place to be if you’re at all interested in traditional Japanese culture and history.

Some other notable museums are the Ghibli Museum, Mori Art Museum, and the Suginami Animation Museum.

My advice is to choose two museums that interest you and really take the time to explore.

In the evening, head to Roppongi Hills district for a night on the town. It’s one of the city’s most popular districts for nightlight among expats, so if you feel like meeting some fellow backpackers, you’ll likely find them here.

Day Three in Tokyo: Shinjuku and Beyond…

Your last day in Tokyo will begin at the famous Senso-Ji shrine in Asakusa. It is the largest and the most ancient Buddhist temple in the whole of Tokyo.

It attracts locals and international travellers alike and is dedicated to the Bodhisattva of compassion, Guan Yin. There are beautiful shrines for you to admire, such as the Shinto Shrine, the Akasaka Shrine, and even an exquisite 5 story pagoda.

Next up? The Tokyo Skytree .

The Tokyo Skytree is one of the most raved tourist attractions in Japan and is a must-see. It is best experienced in the early evening or night as the enormous 634-meter observation tower sticks out like a multicoloured middle finger after sunset.

At night time, head to the shining Shinjuku district. With endless rows of neon signs, towering skyscrapers, and bustling crowds, this is quintessential Tokyo. It’s the stuff that anime is made of and reminds one immediately of tour-de-forces like Akira or Neon Genesis.

Spending More Time in Tokyo?

If you’ve got more time on your hands then you’re in luck: Tokyo definitely has more to offer than just a weekend’s worth. With a bit more extra time, you can really get to know the city and Japanese culture…

• Tokyo Disney Resort : If you are travelling with kids, then taking a trip to Tokyo Disney Resort in Tokyo Bay is a whole new level of fun. It’s considerably smaller compared to other resorts, but it still has a lot of Disney magic.
• Take a day trip to Hakone : Hakone National Park is a quick train journey outside Tokyo and is a great place for a day trip, and one of our favorite Japanese National Parks . It’s a
• mountainous park with access to onsens, quirky boutique stores, and if you make your way to the top, you can see Mount Fuji from a distance. There’s also a lake and shinto shrines to visit, too.
• Mount Fuji day trip : If you want to see Mount Fuji, you need to plan your visit carefully. It’s often cloudy which means seeing the peak isn’t always possible. Try to plan your visit on a clear, sunny day.
• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden : This gorgeous garden has a large botanical greenhouse, plenty of lawn space, a lake and manicured gardens. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.

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Tokyo is the capital of Japan and the start of many backpacking adventures, so there are a lot of things you can do here! If you only have a couple of days, I recommend sticking to what  you  like to do.

Are you interested in history and architecture? Do you love art? Or are you just determined to see all the cool technology and gadgets?

Or maybe you want to see all of it!

The truth of the matter is that Tokyo is huge. Unless you plan on staying for a year, you simply won’t be able to see  all  of it in a few days. But you can totally get a sense of life in the city in 2-3 days, it’s just a matter of choosing the best things to do.

1. Visit shrines and temples

Before you dive into the neon-lit madness of your Tokyo itinerary , it’s best to start off with the traditional side of the Japanese capital. That means visiting some of the city’s famous shrines and temples. There are quite a few, but if your time is limited you’ll have to pick and choose.

Be sure to head to the Asakusa area to check out the Sensoji Temple . This is the oldest religious site in the city, dating all the way back to 628 AD. It’s also the most visited, drawing in about 30 million people annually.

Another must-see is the Meiji Shrine . Surrounded by forest, this beautiful shrine was built to honour Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.

2. Eat all the foods

Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Tokyo is to sample the amazing Japanese cuisine that is around every corner. From a sushi breakfast at the fish market to a crowded noodle joint for lunch, and even to the rice balls and other snacks at 7-11, there’s so much good to try in Tokyo.

3. Museum hopping

Tokyo is home to countless museums covering everything from history to art to science and much more. It being Japan, there are museums dedicated to topics such as anime and samurai as well.

You could spend weeks on end visiting Tokyo museums and still not hit them all. Assuming you only have a few days in the city, you’ll probably only be able to visit one or two museums. A great place to start is the Tokyo National Museum , which is an excellent place to learn about the culture and history of Japan.

4. Dinner and a show at a Robot Restaurant

If you’re the kind of person who would rather be at an acid test than a stale dinner party, then the Robot Restaurant is the place for you!

This psychedelic, mind-fuck of a dinner show just might be the coolest dining experience in the world. It ain’t cheap (about $75 a head), but it’s definitely worth it.

5. See sumo or baseball

Sumo is the national sport of Japan and seeing it live is a pretty incredible experience. There are three big sumo tournaments in Tokyo each year in January, May, and September. Each one lasts for just over two weeks, meaning there are 45 days a year where it’s possible to see sumo live.

If you can’t catch a sumo tournament, perhaps you can attend a baseball game. It’s not just for Americans!

The  Yomiuri Giants play at the Tokyo Dome . The games are a lot of fun and with the season lasting from March to September, there are plenty of chances to catch one.  No matter which Japanese city you stay in, there will 2 big fat blokes scrapping somewhere.

6. Go for a walk in the park

While Tokyo is most definitely a concrete jungle, there are still plenty of scenic green spaces in the city. In between all the sightseeing, it’s nice to just go for a walk in the park and chill out a bit.

Some of the best places to go include the gardens around the Imperial Palace and Yoyogi Park , which is especially lively on the weekends.

7. Explore funky neighbourhoods

As I mentioned in the intro to this Tokyo travel guide, this massive city is really several cities combined into one. Each ward is unique and offers something special. When you travel to Tokyo, you should make it a point to explore as many of the different ‘hoods as you can.

Some areas that you can’t miss include Akihabara (anime, arcades, go-karts!), Harajuku (fashion, youth culture), Asakusa (history, culture), and Shinjuku (nightlife).

8. Experience the Shibuya crossing

In New York, you have to visit Central Park. In London, you’ve got to see Big Ben. Well, in Tokyo, you need to walk across the Shibuya crossing .

Rumoured to be the busiest crossing in the world, it’s absolute chaos once the light turns green and people surge into the intersection from all sides.

9. Real-life Mario Kart

There’s no denying that Mario Kart is one of the greatest video games ever created. I mean, there’s a reason they’re still coming out with new versions decades later.

Get ready to have your minds blown, my friends. In Tokyo you can play real life Mario Kart !

Seriously – you can dress up as fucking Yoshi and ride a go-kart through the streets. They even have cameras and Bluetooth speakers in the go-karts, so you can capture all the action and blast your own tunes.

Just don’t go throwing any banana peels off to the side! Also, big point to note is that you will need a valid driver’s license to participate in go-karting.

10. Party Hard in Tokyo

While there are plenty of awesome things to do and places to visit in Tokyo to keep you busy during the day, you’ll want to make sure you have some gas left in the tank to sample some of the city’s nightlife.

The options for a big night out really are endless here, from informal Japanese pubs known as izakaya to rowdy nightclubs that go until sunrise.

One of Japan’s biggest festivals , Ultra Japan, takes place right in the city and is one not to be missed by EDM fans.

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In this absolutely massive, sprawling capital city, figuring out where to stay can be overwhelming. The first time I travelled to Tokyo, I spent so much time looking at the map trying to figure out where the hell everything was.

There are so many hostels in Tokyo that you could spend hours just scrolling through booking sites to find the best one. The trick to finding the best one is choosing the best location. Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa are my personal favourite neighbourhoods as they are safe and touristy.

Hostels are usually the cheapest accommodation option but, full disclosure, they are still not cheap. You can expect to pay between  $20 and $30 USD  per night for a dorm bed. Private rooms tend to be as pricey as hotels.

Japanese hostels generally come stacked full of amenities and an awesome social vibe, and you can meet other travellers to explore with. Save money using the kitchen, and they nearly always have a communal space you can chill out in.

If you want a cool experience though, have you heard about those capsule hotels in Tokyo that Japan is famous for? The ones where you kind of sleep in a coffin? Even those can cost upwards of $50 a night.

A neat travel tip for you is to get on Couchsurfing and send a bunch of requests. When I last travelled to Tokyo, I messaged well over 20 hosts.

A super nice local guy took us in and let us crash for a few nights on his tatami mat. That saved us at least $100 on hostel dorm beds, so it was worth the effort!

Staying in homestays in Tokyo is a very affordable way to travel and you also get to learn a thing or two from your hosts.

You can also rent a room or an entire apartment for your stay. There are plenty of great choices on Airbnb in Tokyo for very reasonable pricess.

The Best Places to Stay in Tokyo

Wondering where to stay in Tokyo? I’ve already done the grunt work and put together an excellent guide on where to stay in Tokyo .

Centrally located and with a little bit of everything, Shinjuku offers the best overall experience making it one of the best places to stay in Tokyo for first-time travelers.

An historical part of Tokyo, complete with temples and shrines, that also offers good deals on lodging.

A high-octane, neon-drenched district that appeals most to those who don’t wish to sleep and/or want to find a hookup.

A large district with multiple neighborhoods that cater to all sorts of people be them hipster, yuppy, grungy, bohemian, whatever.

A developed area that hosts most of the city’s theme parks, including Disney World, Legoland, and Palette Town.

Before I dive into the average costs of travelling in Tokyo, let’s just get this out of the way – Japan is fucking expensive . If you come to Tokyo expecting to pay similar prices to other Asian capital cities like Bangkok, Jakarta, or Seoul, you’re in for a shock. Prices in Tokyo are more in line with places like London or New York.

That being said, there are always ways for Broke Backpackers to travel, even in the most expensive of cities.

You can survive on a budget of $30-40 a day in Tokyo if you’re very resourceful. You’ll need to find a Couchsurfing host for one. You’ll also be eating a lot of 7-11 meals and burning up the soles in your shoes by walking so much.

If you up that budget to $60-70 , you can get a dorm bed in a decent hostel, afford a few rides on the metro, and swap those instant noodles for some conveyor belt sushi. You might even have some money left over at the end of the day to have a beer or two!

From a 7-11, of course. As I said, this city is expensive.

Below is a breakdown of how much things cost in Tokyo.

A Daily Budget in Tokyo

Not sure how much you’re going to spend in Tokyo? Here’s a rough estimate…

A Few Free Things to Do in Tokyo

Just because Tokyo is an expensive city doesn’t mean there aren’t amazing cheap or free things to do in Tokyo .

With a little bit of careful planning, it’s totally feasible to spend a few days in Tokyo where you only spend money on accommodation, transportation, and food. There are enough free things to do in Tokyo to keep you busy for several days without getting bored.

Some of the many free things to do in Tokyo are going on a guided tour of the Imperial Palace , taking in the views from atop the Metropolitan Government Building , walking around the Tsukiji Fish Market , and visiting the Sensoji Temple.

Tokyo on a Budget – Tips and Tricks

It’s definitely easy for your money to disappear into thin air in a place like Tokyo. That being said, there are still some strategies you can follow to try to minimize the damage to your wallet.

• Visit in Summer : Unlike most places, summer is the quietest time of year in Tokyo as it’s when the locals disappear on holiday. There’s a national holiday that lasts about a week each year, and for that reason, most people take holidays in the summer. It’s also the rainy season, so people tend not to travel during the rainy periods. It’s a great place to visit during August .
• Avoid visiting in Spring: Spring is a no-go, it’s the busiest season and everyone is rushing to see the cherry blossoms which only bloom for one week a year. If you want to save money, avoid travelling in the spring.
• Buy a Tokyo Pass : If you want to explore all that Tokyo has to offer, it’s worth it to pick up Tokyo Pass.
• Do the free things : You can burn through a lot of money in Tokyo quickly by buying entrance tickets and joining tours. You can also entertain yourself with plenty of awesome free activities. Walk around the city in search of all the awesome free gardens and museums, visit the many parks, and temples.
• Eat from 7/11: Contrary to other places in the world, 7/11 in Japan offers some pretty decent hot food and snacks. You can eat out pretty cheaply and still have a reasonably filling meal.

Why You Should Travel to Tokyo with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… So do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful.

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem.

I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

The best time to visit Tokyo is either between March-May or September-November. Spring and fall temperatures are nice and pleasant, and the crowds aren’t too bad. The one exception is when cherry blossoms begin to bloom, which brings an influx of tourists all across the country.

Summer in Tokyo can get very hot and humid. As with many places around the globe, this is also the peak tourist season.

While winter isn’t terrible in Tokyo, the cold weather definitely limits your ability to really experience all that the city has to offer. Tokyo’s parks and gardens are a highlight, and they are just not that nice in the dead of winter.

What to Pack for Tokyo

Your Tokyo travel packing list is going to be wildly dependent on the season you choose to visit. But here are a few universal items you just can’t go wrong with:

Osprey Daylite Plus

Any city slicker needs a SLICK daypack. In general, you can never go wrong with an Osprey pack, but with its array of awesome organisation, durable materials, and a comfy build, the Daylite Plus will make your urban jaunts buttery smooth.

Grayl Geopress Filtered Bottle

Save $$$, save the planet, and save yourself the headache (or tummy ache). Instead of sticking to bottled plastic, buy a Grayl Geopress, drink water no matter the source, and be happy knowing the turtles and fishies thank you (and so do we!). 🙂

OCLU Action Camera

Wait, it’s cheaper than a GoPro and… better than a GoPro? The OCLU action cam is the cam for budget backpackers that want to immortalise all their wildest adventures – including that time you dropped it off a Himalayan mountain – WITHOUT breaking the bank.

Solgaard Solarbank

Resourceful travellers know how to find power outlets anywhere on the road; smart travellers just pack a solar power bank instead. With 4-5 phone cycles per charge and the ability to top up literally anywhere the sun is shining, there’s no reason to ever get lost again!

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

ALL travellers need a headtorch – no exceptions! Even in the hostel dorm, this beauty can save you in a real pinch. If you haven’t got in on the headtorch game, DO. I promise you: you’ll never look back. Or at least if you do, you’ll be able to see what you’re looking at.

Tokyo is one of the safest cities on the planet. Honestly, you have very little to be concerned with when you travel to Tokyo.

Even petty crimes like pick-pocketing aren’t really an issue in the Japanese capital. That being said, you should still exercise the same common sense you would anywhere else.

For female travellers, one thing to be wary of in Tokyo is men with curious hands on the packed trains. While this is more of a problem for local women, it’s still something you want to be aware of. There are even women-only train cars for this very reason.

Now, for the men out there, you might be wandering down a bar street in Roppongi one night, piss drunk on sake, when you hear someone mention a “happy ending.”

I hate to burst your bubble, but these are definitely scams. There are many stories of dudes going into these bars, getting drugged, and waking up to exorbitant credit card bills. That’s not a happy ending at all!

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Tokyo

Tokyo isn’t a rowdy city, but you can certainly get into any kind of drug tourism if you know the right people. Especially if you hang around Kabukicho, the red light district of Tokyo.

So now that I’ve touched on actually illegal things, let’s get into more “basic” Tokyo fun: booze. You can find alcohol everywhere in the city, if you’re 21.

Since the pandemic, an alcohol ban was put in place to help control the spread of COVID. As of May 2022, there is still a curfew in place, meaning establishments can only serve alcohol up to a certain time. But keep your eyes on the news as this may change.

Hey, you can always get a few street tinnies from the 7/11 and take them back to your hotel! Just make sure you check your hotel allows alcohol consumption.

As for love and sex on the road , hey, it’s Tokyo: anything can happen! If you happen to meet a fellow traveller you want to do the dance with no pants with, be respectful and responsible. Everyone just wants to have a good time, after all.

Plus, if you visit Condomania you can buy condoms that make your manhood glow like a lightsaber! Pretty cool way to bag your meat, if you ask me.

Getting Insured BEFORE You Visit Tokyo

Travelling without insurance would be risky. So do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

I’ll never forget the first time I went to Tokyo and got my first glance at the city’s metro map. I must have looked like the most confused gaijin (foreigner) ever because a good Samaritan quickly asked me where I needed to go and pointed me in the right direction.

Seriously, just take one look at the Tokyo metro map. It looks like an alien with a few dozen different coloured tentacles. Actually, that sounds about right for Japan!

In all seriousness though, it’s pretty fucking confusing trying to navigate. I’ll try to explain it in simple terms for you…

Getting Around Tokyo

The Tokyo metro network consists of lines managed by several different companies. That means you can’t just buy one ticket and ride the metro wherever you want. There are the JR lines, the two subway networks, and then several private lines as well.

Sound confusing? That’s because it is.

The good news is that Japanese people are super friendly and helpful, and will step in to save your dazed and confused ass. They’ll do a much better job of explaining things than I can.

Even though it’s a bit tricky to navigate, the Tokyo metro system is pretty awesome and will get you everywhere you need to go in the city.

There are plenty of bus lines as well, but those are even more difficult for the uninitiated to figure out.

Cabs are readily available in Tokyo, but they ain’t cheap. Drivers here aren’t known to be con artists like they are in so many cities but don’t expect them to speak any English. If you’re trying to do Tokyo on the cheap, you’re going to need to stay out of cabs and walk your ass to the nearest subway station.

I’ve been to the city twice now and haven’t taken a single bus or cab. My strategy is always to figure out which subway station to go to and then spend all day exploring that area. I might take the metro again to try a different part of town if time allows, and then try to get on the last one home before it shuts down.

Tokyo is served by two different airports. If you’re travelling to the city internationally, you’ll probably arrive at Narita International Airport (NRT).

The thing about this airport is that it’s not actually in Tokyo at all. As the name suggests, it’s actually in Narita, which is 70 km northeast of the capital.

For getting to and from Narita, you have several options. The cheapest option is taking the Keisei Limited Express to Nippori Station for about $10 one-way. From there, you can hop on the metro to get to where you’re staying.

If you purchase a Japan Rail Pass for your trip, you should hop on the Narita Express train, as it’s covered by the pass. Even if you don’t have the rail pass, it’s not a bad deal if you need a round-trip ticket. Foreigners get a discounted price of about $35 for round-trip tickets to be used within two weeks.

Haneda Airport (HND) is used mostly for domestic flights, but a new international terminal is working now. It’s much closer to the city than Narita – only about half an hour south of central Tokyo. Your best bet travelling to the city is catching the Tokyo Monorail for about $5.

Travelling by Train in Tokyo

I’m sure you’ve heard of Japan’s amazing high-speed trains by now. Japan definitely has one of the most impressive rail networks in the world, so travelling to and from Tokyo by train is a great option. Trains here are fast, comfortable, and incredibly punctual.

But train travel here can be a bit complicated. I always look to Seat 61 for detailed and up-to-date information on travelling by train.

Of course, bus travel is always an option to get to and from Tokyo as well. Since it’s the capital city and all, you can catch buses heading in all directions out of Tokyo. One bus company that comes recommended by several travellers is Willer Express .

FYI – If you are really short on time, then note that there are Tokyo transit tours operating from the airport which last around 5 hours.

Long-term travel is awesome. Giving back is awesome too. For backpackers looking to travel long-term on a budget in  Tokyo  whilst making a real impact on local communities look no further than  WorldPackers .

WorldPackers is an excellent platform  connecting travellers with meaningful volunteer positions throughout the world . In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your room and board are covered.

Backpackers can spend long periods of time volunteering in Japan in an awesome place without spending any money. Meaningful life and travel experiences are rooted in stepping out of your comfort zone and into the world of a purposeful project.

If you like to party, then you’re in for a real treat in Tokyo. While the city and its people may seem a bit conservative at first glance, once the sun goes down it’s a whole different ballgame.

The old age of work hard, play hard sure rings true in Tokyo. As soon as 5 o’clock hits, you’ll see businessmen start to trickle into the tachinomi  standing bars, where you literally just stand and drink.

Many of these guys will pound a bunch of beers, crash in a capsule hotel, and get right back to the office the next morning. Party on, Wayne!

For another fun and local experience, check out some of the city’s many izakaya . These are informal bars that typically serve a variety of small dishes along with drinks. Look for them around busy train stations and sit down for a classic Tokyo experience.

I haven’t even scratched the surface when it comes to the nightlife in Tokyo. You can also find classy cocktail bars, craft beer bars, live music venues, raucous nightclubs, and of course, the ubiquitous karaoke joints. 

One thing about partying in Tokyo is that it can definitely wreck your budget. Be sure to read this helpful and hilarious broke-ass guide to drinking in Tokyo before heading out for a big night there.

Dining in Tokyo Japan

Wow… where do I even begin here? There are literally thousands of places to eat and drink in Tokyo. If all you did on your trip to Tokyo was sample Japanese food and drink, I would say it was a smashing success.

Early in the morning, be sure to head to the Tsukiji Fish Market for a sushi breakfast. If you want to see the auction, you’ll have to get there at a very unreasonable hour of 3:30-4:30.

For those who prefer sleep to watching people buy fish, you can show up later, poke around the market a bit, and sit down at a restaurant for a massive sushi breakfast.

Speaking of sushi, you’ll surely notice that many restaurants serve up this Japanese classic on conveyor belts. These places are great for a quick, easy, and relatively affordable meal. The plates are colour-coded by price, so be sure to look carefully before loading up on the most expensive ones!

One of the most fun things about eating in Tokyo is ordering your lunch from vending machines. Many restaurants have vending machines with pictures, so you can place your order, hand the receipt to the cook, and not worry about fumbling through your awful Japanese. Take that, language barriers!

For those doing Tokyo on the cheap, you’ll surely get acquainted with convenience store food. Hey, at least it’s pretty good here! Grab a few rice balls and maybe a bento box, and you’ll be good for a few hours.

Drinking in Tokyo

Seeing as how you’re in East Asia and all, you’ll definitely want to try some tea while you’re in Tokyo. There are plenty of tea houses in the Japanese capital, and you’ll often be served some green tea with your meal in restaurants.

When it comes to the hard stuff, it’s not hard to find an adult beverage in Tokyo. You can even get local beers like Asahi from vending machines, although these are becoming increasingly rare.

If you can’t find one, you can always just grab a drink from the 7-11 that is probably right in front of you. Street beers FTW!

Of course, you didn’t come all the way to Tokyo to not get some sake . You can’t throw a dead cat without hitting a  sake bar. Hey, wait a second – where did you get that dead cat! Not from the cat cafe?!

Dead cat jokes aside, don’t miss out on getting sake drunk when you travel to Tokyo.

Best Restaurants/Cheap Eats in Japan

Here are some cheap restaurants in Tokyo that give you the most bang for your buck:

• Menchirashi: This is the perfect place to get you some house made udon noodles for an affordable price.  Just head over to the fashionable district of Harajuku.
• Ichiran ramen: This is a chain of ramen restaurants in Japan and each one is tasty and affordable. You get to sit in your own little anti-social booth and your ramen is served to you from two hands behind a curtain. It’s an experience in itself.
• Gonbei: this small udon shop near Waseda University offers top-notch noodles for an affordable price. You can also enjoy a set menu and there’s free refills of takikomi gohan (rice seasoned with dashi broth and vegetables), so you can fill up here and spend less on food later on.
• Unatoto: Unagi (grilled freshwater eel) is a quick and affordable delicacy. You can find Unagi restaurants all over Tokyo, but Unatoto is one of the top rated restaurants.
• Echigoya Hachikichi: This restaurant specialises in fish set meals for under Y1000. It’s another great restaurant where you can enjoy a hearty meal and fill up, so you don’t have to spend more money on food later on.
• Food courts: If you want to enjoy a cheap meal but can’t be bothered to wander around looking for restaurants, head to any mall and look for the food court. You’ll be sure to find a bargain option there.

Take Your Japanese to the Next Level

Learning more than just basic phrases in Japanese is a monumental task that will require patience and time from very dedicated backpackers, but is totally worth it in the end.  Global Work and Travel  offer the opportunity to learn Japanese in either Tokyo, Kyota, or Fukuoka.

You can stay anywhere from 2 to 12 weeks with small class sizes so you get MORE attention (you’ll need it, Japanese ain’t easy). Plus, what better way to learn than to fully immerse yourself? Your backpacking experience will be all the better for it.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Fukuoka ? I’ve got you!

Experience Tokyo in all its kooky, weird, and wonderful ways! Here are some of my favourite unique experiences in Tokyo:

Sitting in an Onsen/Hot Spring

Onsens are unique to Japan and East Asian countries. They are relaxing outdoor hot spring pools surrounded by gorgeous Japanese gardens, peaceful music, and naked grannies.

Even though you do have to share a pool with a naked stranger, it’s not as awkward as you might think. Unless you’re travelling around Japan on a romantic holiday . Then it might be…

The best place to experience an onsen in Tokyo is actually to take a day trip out to Hakone, which is only an hour or so on the train from Shinjuku station. This is also a great place to see Mount Fuji from a distance.

Full disclosure, if you have tattoos, it is likely you will be turned away. They’re not a big fan of tattoos in Japan. Some onsen houses will allow people with tattoos to have a private onsen (basically like a bath in a private room), but this is dependent on the onsen house.

Tea Ceremonies

Drinking tea in Japan is a huge deal. Tea ceremonies are known as  chanoyu, or sado , in Japanese, which means harmony, respect, purity and tranquillity . The way the tea has been made, and the way it is to be drunk, are all very important. If you want a unique, cultural experience in Tokyo, try and find yourself a tea house.

Stay in a Ryokan (Traditional Japanese Inn)

No visit to Japan would be complete without staying at a traditional Japanese inn and sleeping on a tatami mat. Many traditional Japanese homes are quite small and space is a problem, so rooms often have several purposes.

By day a kitchen, by night a bedroom, that kinda thing. You’ll sleep on a soft mattress on the floor, surrounded by authentic wooden sliding doors and paper walls. It’s an experience that you won’t forget.

Getting Off The Beaten Path in Tokyo

One great thing about travelling to Tokyo is that you’re almost always immersed in the local culture. There really isn’t a tourist zoo here like Times Square in New York or Khao San Road in Bangkok. Aside from a few expat enclaves, you’ll generally find yourself surrounded by Japanese people and culture.

Even in popular areas such as Shinjuku , all you need to do is walk down some random side streets and you’ll find yourself in the lively Golden Gai bar district.

This area is home to some 200 tiny bars and dining establishments that can only hold a handful of people. Pop into one and you’ll soon be  lost in translation , just like Bill Murray in the famous movie.

Just a stone’s throw away from the bustling Shibuya , you’ll find the bohemian ‘hood of  Shimokitazawa . This place is full of hipster cafes, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and an abundance of vintage and second-hand shops. While much of the rest of Tokyo fills up with chain stores, at least this area remains unique.

One great way to get off the beaten track here is by connecting with and maybe even staying with locals. Even if you can’t find a host on Couchsurfing, you might find a meet-up that’s going on while you’re in town, or a local who would like to meet for coffee and show you around.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

Is Backpacking in Tokyo expensive?

Yes and no. If you stay in homestays, eat cheaply and budget appropriately, you can backpack in Japan quite cheaply. However, to really enjoy it, it’s worth saving up a bit of money and not feeling the need to budget all the time.

How much should I budget for a backpacking trip to Tokyo?

This largely depends on how long you stay in Tokyo and your travel style, but I would budget for at least $50 minimum per day for food, accommodation and doing things.

What are some unique places to visit in Tokyo?

There are tons of unique places to visit in Tokyo! Consider checking out a robot restaurant or maid cafe for a unique and quirky experience.

What should I avoid in Tokyo?

There are a lot of cultural considerations that tourists need to consider when backpacking in Japan, such as nose blowing, talking loudly, smoking and tipping etc. Here’s a useful guide on cultural considerations for tourists in Japan .

Backpacking in Tokyo will bring you ample opportunities to participate in debauchery, and it is very important to have fun, let loose, and get a bit wild at times. Most backpacking trips I have been on across the world have included at least a few mornings where I wake up knowing I went too far.

There are some things that will put you in the category of a straight up jackass if you do them. Being super loud and obnoxious in a tiny hostel at 3 AM is a classic rookie backpacker mistake.

Everyone in the hostel will hate you when you wake them up. Show your fellow travellers respect whilst backpacking in Tokyo and anywhere else for that matter!

Reduce your plastic footprint: Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is become a responsible traveler and make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world.

Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in a landfill or in the ocean.

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

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For the number 9. “Real Life Mario Kart”, it’s necessary to say, that you need a valid drivers license to prove that you are a competent driver, otherwise you can’t join. I almost made a booking, but luckily I read the details and it said I needed a license. So yeah, would’ve been cool to mention that as well, as not everyone here has a license, I guess.

Thank you none the less

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• Hack the Hidden City: Top tips for Tokyo
• < Travel hacks

Travel hacks

By Hana Leakey October 14, 2022

By Hana Leakey | October 14, 2022

Last update: October 25, 2022

Japan has finally reopened! This is our practical guide to Tokyo, complete with picks of tourist musts and hidden gems, for free or for cheap, and great for friends, couples, and solo travelers alike

On October 11, after some very stringent Covid-preventative measures and a long two and a half years for those with the country on their bucket lists, Japan finally opened up again to individual international tourists . (Earlier this year, foreigners were once again permitted to enter the country for non-essential reasons, but only if they were on an organized tour.)

Just as well, because we want Tokyo to be the next hidden city that we hack ! Okay, Tokyo isn’t technically a city; the Japanese capital officially became a metropolis in 1943. Imagine Tokyo as a bunch of small cities — “special wards”, of which there are 23, Shinjuku and Shibuya being the most touristy ones. Then, each ward is broken up into districts. Yeah, Tokyo’s a big place.

But don’t worry — we’re going to tell you all the things you need to know to get the most out of it. Read on to find out what to expect from Tokyo generally, and for some fun and unique things to do for very little money , from the must-sees to the hidden gems. But first, let’s get into some practical tips: traveling from the airport to the center, budgeting, and local customs.

Getting from the airport

So, you’ve just landed in Tokyo and you’re raring to go and take on this mother of all cities. But how do you get to the action?

Haneda Airport

The two most practical and cheapest ways to get from Haneda Airport to Central Tokyo are by train and by monorail. Both the train (the Keikyu line) and the monorail depart from all three of Haneda Airport’s terminals at regular intervals, and they’ll both take you as far as Minato ward. This journey is about 25 minutes on the Keikyu line and can be as quick as 15 minutes on the monorail, depending on whether it’s an express, rapid, or local service.

Narita Airport

Narita Airport is located further out from Central Tokyo than Haneda Airport. The quickest way to get to the city (in just under one hour) is by taking the Narita Express (N’EX) train from any of the airport terminals. An alternative, cheaper option is to take the Keisei line train as far as Arakawa ward or Taito ward, but this will likely take significantly longer.

Budget: the basics

How much do things cost in Tokyo? Less than you might have thought — we’ve got some budget tips and practical advice that’ll help make your money go further.

The currency of Japan is the yen (¥). As of October 2022, €1 (euro) is worth about ¥142 , and $1 (United States dollar) is approximately ¥145 .

Japan has a reputation for being a cash society. While some places (mainly small bars and eateries) still don’t take card payments, it’s become increasingly common for businesses to do so — especially in the capital — since the start of the pandemic.

Wherever in the world you travel to, Revolut is an absolute godsend. Not only does it completely eliminate the need to carry large amounts of foreign cash around — it also lets you convert your money to any currency at no hidden extra cost. Find out more about how Revolut works .

From convenience-store bentos to Michelin-star dishes, dining options in Tokyo are plentiful, with a vast price range to match. The incredible cuisine is one of the things that keeps bringing visitors to Japan, and it’s not just about raw fish (though if you do like raw fish, this is the best place in the world to eat it).

Luckily, eating out all across Japan can be done on the cheap very easily. Below are the average prices in Tokyo for some of the most popular (and inexpensive) meals.

• Filled rice ball from a convenience store: ¥110
• Plate of sushi (usually two pieces) at a conveyor-belt chain: ¥110
• Bento (meat or fish, rice) from a convenience store: ¥500
• Topped rice bowl at a fast food restaurant: ¥500
• Set meal (meat or fish, rice, soup, pickles): ¥800
• Curry and rice from a fast food restaurant: ¥850
• Ramen bowl at a fast food restaurant: ¥1000
• All-you-can-eat at a yakinuku (grilled meat) restaurant: ¥2500

When you’re out and about, expect to pay around ¥100 for a bottle of water, juice, ice tea or soda. A cup of coffee costs about ¥300 in a coffee-house chain, or even less from a convenience store.

If you’re partial to an alcohol-fulled night out — on a budget, no less — you’re in for a treat. The izakaya , a traditional Japanese bar, is an unmissable nightlife phenomenon both in Tokyo and throughout the rest of the country. You’ll be served beer, sake, umeshu (plum wine) and traditional cocktails to your heart’s content, especially because often, you’ll pay around ¥2000 for unlimited drinks within a given length of time, usually a few hours.

Another great thing about izakayas is that they also do small plates of food, kind of like Japanese tapas, and it tends to be really tasty. Choose from fried chicken, grilled fish, fried rice, gyoza, edamame (salty soybeans), and much more goodness to soak up the alcohol.

The most famous area for izakayas in Tokyo is Golden Gai in Shunjuku, but if you want to avoid the tourist crowds, head instead to Omoide Yokocho (also in Shunjuku) or Hoppy Dori (in Asakusa).

Public transport in Tokyo comprises two subway systems , one overground system, and one big bus network. (There are a lot of lines.) Fortunately, there’s a prepaid card that’s valid for travel on anything, which will make your adventure so much easier.

The card is called Suica and you can get it at any station, including the stations at the airports. The initial price of a Suica card consists of a ¥500 deposit, plus the amount that you wish to load onto it. Top up the card as you go, and right before you leave Japan, simply hand in the card to get your deposit back.

The exact fare for a single journey depends on where you are and where you’re going, but you can expect to pay something between ¥150 and ¥300 . Per day, you might spend around ¥1000 on transport.

Accommodation

As with eating out, accommodation options in Tokyo are copious and vary drastically in price. Here are some of the cheapest.

Kanshuku , economy hotels, are similar to hostels in that bathrooms and dining areas are shared, only sleeping areas are private. The average price for one night’s stay is ¥4000 .

Western-style hostels will charge around ¥6000 per night.

A manga kissa (manga café) will let you stay overnight in a private booth, which in most cases, won’t have a bed, but a comfortable chair or cozy bean bag-type setup. As the name suggests, you’ll have access to a whole library of manga, as well as showers and typically, unlimited non-alcoholic drinks. They might not be the most practical digs in the world, but it’s a cool experience that can only really be had in Japan, and it only costs about ¥1000 a night.

And speaking of unique Japanese experiences, a stay in a capsule hotel will only cost you around ¥3000 . If you can get over the fact that the stacks of capsule beds bear a likeness to a morgue, you can get a decent night’s sleep in private. Bathrooms and chill-out areas, meanwhile, are communal.

Local customs

Japan is finally welcoming international tourists after over two years, but the population remains mindful of Covid-19. As of October 2022, if you’re not triple-vaccinated, you need to show a negative PCR test result upon entering the country. There are no official restrictions in place regarding domestic travel, dining out or mass events, but the majority of people still wear masks in public spaces.

That’s the Covid stuff covered; how can you make sure you stick to Japanese etiquette more generally? People in Tokyo will often give foreigners the benefit of the doubt if they’re not familiar with local manners, but here are some fun pointers that’ll certainly be appreciated.

• Don’t tip at a bar or restaurant. Tipping has never been commonplace in Japan, to the extent that it can even be insulting.
• Avoid talking loudly and blowing your nose in public.
• Try not to eat or drink on the go, especially on public transport.
• If you stay at any kind of traditional guest house, including a capsule hotel, you must take your shoes off at the entrance.
• Don’t stick your chopsticks into your food and leave them there upright, even if only briefly. This is what people do at funerals.
• Do, however, feel free to slurp when you eat! Slurping is considered a sign of appreciation for the food.
• Avoid strong public displays of affection.
• If you use a public bath, always shower thoroughly before you get in.
• Try to use two hands, rather than one, when giving or receiving something, including money. When you pay for something, put the cash down on the surface between you and the seller instead of into their hands.

What Tokyo’s all about

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ユニバーサル・スタジオ・ジャパン USJ (@universal_studios_japan)

Now you’re all set to hack the hidden city, and what a good choice you’ve made! Before the pandemic, Tokyo was attracting around four million international tourists every year. Hoards of people come to experience the bright neon lights of the entertainment venues, electronics stores so colossal that they have an air of futuristic dreamscape , and of course, all the sites dedicated to the pop culture that Japan has given the world. Foreigners just can’t get enough of places such as the Ghibli Museum , the city’s five Pokémon Centers, and any number of themed attractions at Univeral Studios Japan (think Hello Kitty, Godzilla, and Super Nintendo). It might be said that more than anything, Tokyo is about fun. Escapism? That too, perhaps.

But not everything is about the animated and the wacky. Japanese history is just as fascinating, and there are several spots in Tokyo that take you back in time. There are characteristic temples and shrines such as Meiji jingu, and the really, really old Senso-ji and Yushima tenman-gu. There’s Shinjuku Gyoen, a huge park between Shinjuku and Shibuya, which used to be private samurai grounds during the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate between 1603 and 1868. And not to mention, there’s the Imperial Palace where the Tokugawa shogunate was established, and nowadays, where the emperor officially resides. If you want a real taste of what Tokyo was like under Tokugawa rule, check out the Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum .

Tokyo is famous for, first and foremost, being the biggest city in the world by area, and what an amazing playground it is. Between the new and the old, it’s the epicenter of all Japanese culture, and there’ll be something unique and exciting for you to explore around every corner.

Let’s have a look at some more of the best things to do. And better yet, almost all of these are cheap to visit, if not completely free…

• Shibuya Crossing — the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing, located right in front of Shibuya Station and surrounded by shopping complexes dressed up in lights and billboards. Its image is one of Tokyo’s most iconic.
• Tokyo Tower — Tokyo’s Eiffel Tower-inspired landmark, the second-tallest structure in the country after the Tokyo Skytree .
• Shinjuku Ni-chome — an area of Shinjuku known for its queer nightlife , having the highest concentration of gay bars of anywhere in the world.

• Kabukicho — another area of Shinjuku, playfully called Nemuranai machi , “the town that doesn’t sleep”. It’s famous for its abundant bars, nightclubs, karaoke complexes, gimmicky venues, and love hotels .
• Rainbow Bridge — a long suspension bridge leading to the artificial island of Odaiba, which is illuminated in rainbow colors at night.
• Takeshita Street — the longstanding pioneer of Tokyo street fashion located in Harajuku, an area of Shibuya. The shops here sell unique, diverse clothes and accessories at reasonable prices.

• Toyosu Market — the biggest fish market in the world, the successor of the famous Tsukiji Market, featuring fresh seafood restaurants.
• Kabukiza — the most prestigious kabuki (traditional dance and drama) theater in Japan, located in the area of Ginza. English subtitles are available for some of the performances.

Hidden gems and secret places

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by LIVE JAPAN (@livejapan_official)

• Shimokitazawa — an old-worldly neighborhood with a bohemian vibe. Here, away from the limelight, you’ll find narrow lanes of independent thrift shops selling books, vintage clothes and vinyl records.
• Meguro Sky Garden — 7,000 square meters of sloping roof garden in the heart of the metropolis. It covers the intersection of two major highway roads, and affords a great view of Mount Fuji (Japan’s highest peak, over 150 kilometers away) on a clear day.
• Gotoku-ji — not just any Buddhist temple, but the one that’s said to be the origin of the maneki neko , the lucky beckoning cat. Lucky beckoning cat figurines have taken over this spiritual site located in Setagaya ward.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by MAISON ABLE Cafe Ron Ron (@caferonron)

• Maison Able Cafe Ron Ron — an all-you-can-eat conveyor-belt dessert diner in Harajuku with twee, pastel pink decor and delicate-looking dishes to match. Sushi’s out, sweets are in.
• Jiyugaoka — an affluent neighborhood with a perpetual relaxed Sunday vibe, sometimes referred to as “Little Europe ” because of its imitation Venetian and Parisian streets.
• Kamata Onsen — public baths of black mineral water located in Ota ward, very close to Haneda Airport. It might not look clean, but the water is supposed to be great for your skin, circulation, and easing aches and pains.

So, that’s our take on how to hack the hidden city (metropolis) of Tokyo. As ever, an adventure is what you make of it, but Tokyo in particular is a place with a certain addictiveness about it, where opportunities to try new things are positively endless. You can be sure that your trip here will be an unforgettable one, no matter how small your budget, and one that’ll make you want to come back again and again… and again.

Did you like this article? For more travel inspiration, visit   Kiwi.com Stories .

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The Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Travel Tips: Expert Hacks and Tricks

Making a plan to go to the Capital of Japan and looking for Tokyo travel tips ? Tokyo is one of the largest and most well-developed cities of Japan. It is known as the performing arts such as Kabuki, Noh, and, Rakugo.

You can visit all these places, explore their traditions and try their cuisines but if you are new to Tokyo, you might face some difficulties in this city.

These difficulties might be related to over, prices, transportation options, must-see attractions, and many more. Therefore, need to know to follow the Tokyo travel tips to prevent difficulties during traveling in Tokyo.

Table of Contents

1. Best Time to visit Tokyo

Although Tokyo remains full of tourists all over the year, if you want to enjoy and explore to your fullest, you should visit Tokyo in April and March and from September to October.

This is because the weather stays pleasant and autumn ushers in colorful foliage in March and April. Additionally, the spring season starts from September to November in which the trees and colorful flowers bloom and allow you to enjoy the beauty of Tokyo. Furthermore, in these months the isn’t much crowded as compared to other months. So that you can enjoy it to the fullest.

2. Getting Around Tokyo: Transportation Options

There is no need to worry about the transportation system if you are heading towards Tokyo. This city has the best transportation system for getting around the places for tourists.

There you can easily get the facility of private and public transport in Tokyo. Private transport might be expensive but public transport is inexpensive and best for tourists. The transport includes trains, subways, taxis, and buses.

Tokyo Travel Tips for Transportation

The best way to get around the city is by train and subway.

You can pay through prepaid Suica, or Pasmo Card which is the best way for transport.

Private taxis are luxurious and excellent but a little bit expensive.

Read Also: How Much Does A 1-Week Trip to China Cost?

3. Must-see Attractions in Tokyo

Although there are many attractions to visit in Tokyo, it depends on how much time you have. And for what purpose you came to Tokyo? The Tokyo city is filled with “unique”, “romantic”, “historical”, and “natural attractions”. Furthermore, you can also explore the temples, gardens, museums, origami classes, and bohemian sojourns.

Must-see Attractions Are Enlisted Below:

“Ueno Park”

“Tokyo Sky tree”

“Senso-ji Temple”

“Meiji Jingu Shrine”

“Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden”

4. Where to Eat in Tokyo: Local Cuisine and Popular Food Spots

If you are visiting Tokyo for the first time in your life, then get ready to taste the delicious local food of the city. Despite skyscrapers, buildings, and technology, Tokyo is also famous for delicious food. This has everything to offer you, from Chinese food to Indian food. But it depends on your taste buds as well as your budget.

We have enlisted some top recommended restaurants you can visit in Tokyo:

Ginza Kyubey : An Edo-style Sushi Restaurant

Kichijojikko Izakaya Toriton : A Japanese-style bar that mainly offers chicken and pork dishes

Yakitori Alley: Famous for Tokyoites food

Kanda Matsuya: Edo Style Soba noodle restaurant

Anmitsu Mihashi: Famous for traditional Japanese deserts

5. Exploring Tokyo’s Neighborhoods and Districts

This is also one of the great Tokyo travel tips that visiting Tokyo and exploring only Tokyo isn’t enough. You should include the nearby districts and neighborhoods of Tokyo to enhance the enjoyment of a trip to Japan. Visiting the other districts and neighborhoods is also a great way to explore the “ culture ”, “history”, “traditions”, “food”, “restaurants”, “attractions”, and many more.

These are the famous districts and Neighborhoods of Tokyo you can Explore :

“Akihabara”

“Ikebukuro”

6. Shopping in Tokyo: Best markets, Malls, and Unique stores

It isn’t possible that you to visit Tokyo city and don’t buy anything. Because Tokyo City offers a wide range of shopping centers that grabs the attention of tourists to buy something. It is also one of the diverse and exciting experiences of shopping in Tokyo because this city presents a treasure trove to the customers.

There is a chain of the best malls, markets, and unique stores such as Designer stores on Omotesando Street, Ginza Mitsukoshi, Ginza Wako Department Store, Shinjuku Marui Men, Venus Fort, The Prada Building Aoyama, and many more.

7. Cultural Etiquette and Customs in Tokyo

One of the useful Tokyo travel tips is to understand and follow the customers and etiquette of the Japanese. Before visiting Tokyo, Japan, this is important to learn their traditions, customs, and etiquette.

This is very common to wear a mask in Japan which is a great way to protect yourself from germs, cold, and flu.

In busy areas, there is a tradition in Tokyo to walk on the left side, and people will pause on the left side and don’t block the way of other people and let them go to the elevator.

There is also a tradition of businesses leaving a small tray to the customers to get their money. This is because they don’t want to directly contact the customers.

Punctuality is at its peak.

8. Safety Tips for Traveling in Tokyo

Although Tokyo is the capital of Japan, and the crime rate is low, it doesn’t mean to be blind while visiting Tokyo. The most common crime in Tokyo is petty theft. This type of crime is commonly occurring in the crowd. So, this is important to stay aware and careful while walking on crowded roads, at any event, and at night walk to protect yourself from pickpocketing, bag snatching, and other travel scams and crimes.

Avoid traveling in night

Book government-registered taxis

Don’t take anything to eat from strangers

If you feel unsafe, immediately call the cops for assistance

9. Money-saving tips for visiting Tokyo

In the era of inflation, everything got expensive and went out of budget. At that time this is very essential to properly plan your budget and trip to save your money during traveling . You can visit Tokyo in the off-season to get a room at normal prices as well as to get food at efficient prices.

Prefer buses instead of trains for long-distance travel

Try to get a rail pass

Try to use local buses instead of private ones

Select a capsule hotel for a stay

Eat at a local restaurant to stay in your budget.

10. Unique Experiences and Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions in Tokyo

Home to over 14 million populations, Tokyo has a lot to offer to tourists. After visiting all the famous places if you are thinking that you have visited complete Tokyo, then you are wrong.

There is still a lot to discover in Tokyo. There are still hidden spots that offer incredible views and amazing environments. For example, many people visit famous places but miss Yanaka Ginza, Nezu Shrine, Zojo-ji Temple, and many other places.

This is all about the Tokyo travel tips . If you are visiting Tokyo first time, then these tips are very helpful for you. Try to visit in the spring and autumn season as the city is less crowded and blooms with colorful flowers. And the most important thing, try to take buses instead of long trains as it helps you to manage your budget. You can also visit nearby districts to explore the culture, traditions, food, and their lifestyle.

Read Also: 10 Best Travel Booking Sites To Save You Time And Money

Ferona Jose

Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

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Japan is one of my top favorite destinations, and if you’ve been following my journey , it’s an obvious fact because I’ve been doing multiple visits there every year — most of which are to the capital city of Tokyo. (Tokyo Itinerary)

Now of course, who hasn’t heard of this vibrant city full of ancient traditions that are wonderfully contrasted by its bustling modernity? It’s definitely on everyone’s travel bucket list; and I’m sure that much like everyone else, you also want to make the most of this trip minus the stress of planning out your trip.

Well, don’t fret, because with my past experiences, know-how, and ‘passion’, I’m here to help you out with this DIY Tokyo itinerary! After all, I know how daunting it can be to map Tokyo out — believe me, I’ve been there — and it IS, without a doubt, a dense and massive metropolitan city that can easily be a separate country of its own.

TRIVIA: With over 13.5+ million people across an area of 2,000+ km 2 , Tokyo (officially called the Tokyo Metropolis) is actually comprised of 23 special wards, 26 cities (Tama Area), 3 towns + 1 village (Nishi-Tama District), and several outlying islands. Now, not a lot of people know this… but the core or most populous part of Tokyo (which we travelers typically go off to) ONLY comprises a select few places within the 23 special wards.

As seen above, the PURPLE area in Tokyo is where the 23 special wards are found, and only some of the places in these wards are where tourists typically visit. (Image from Wikipedia)

Each of these special wards has its own major districts in which traveling from one district to another can take an hour — or even more! So YES, you will need some guidance; but as I said, I’m here to help you every step of the way with the help of this Tokyo itinerary guide. It is also t otally customizable to fit any number of days that you might be spending.

Where to Stay in Japan?

Come and check out my lists below that feature the top-recommended choices for cheap to luxurious accommodation choices in the country: Best Hotels in Tokyo Best Hotels in Kyoto Best Hotels in Osaka Best Hotels in Hiroshima

Table of Contents

Tokyo Travel Guide

» quick travel planning.

• Top tours & experiences
• Find flights to Tokyo
• Visa requirements
• Best places to stay
• Travel insurance (5% discount)
• Stay connected

– – –

» Frequently Asked Questions

There is NO tipping culture in Tokyo in general. If you end up giving someone a tip, they’ll mostly be confused why, and they will surely end up giving the money back to you. Sometimes, it’s even considered rude and insulting if you tip them.

Tokyo typically uses two plug types: type A  (two flat parallel pins)  and type B  (two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin at the bottom).  The country operates on a 100V voltage and a frequency of 50/60Hz.

It’s best to base yourself in the district that you’ll be exploring the most. If you ask me though, Shinjuku and Shibuya are the best areas to base yourself on due to the number of key places and shops that surround them. But of course, this isn’t to say that the other areas are not ideal, because they can be as dependent on your preference and budget. For instance, Roppongi is great for nightlife, Asakusa is ideal for souvenir shopping, Ginza is best for luxury boutiques, Odaiba is good if you want to be close to Disneyland or DisneySea, and so on. For a complete list, see this list of the best hotels in Tokyo .

You could flag down a taxi, or an  Uber , ride the bus, rent a bike or go on foot; but if you want to be efficient and fast, the trains are the way to go! Now, Tokyo’s train system is dense and extensive — so it can be  very  confusing. However, all throughout my stay in Tokyo, I’ve managed to make it less complicated by simply using  Google Maps   (mapping my point A and point B and then checking out the directions for the subway/train/bus. It even has real-time walking navigation and an offline option!) Google Maps does NOT work offline if you want routes or transportation schedules during your Tokyo itinerary, so I recommend that you get a  pocket WiFi  or a  SIM Card  to stay connected online (look into an eSIM as well as it is more hassle-free; I use them more and it’s super convenient). • Tokyo’s trains typically open around 5AM and close somewhere around 12AM or midnight. If you don’t have an  IC Card , purchasing local rail lines and subway tickets can only be done with cash or coins at the ticket machine. Credit cards are only applicable when buying long-distance bullet train tickets. • If you’re traveling by train during rush hour, be wary that it can get crazy crowded. If you’re a woman, you can ride the front carriages that are designated only for females (this is only during weekdays until 9AM) . • You will notice that in escalators, people stand on the left side so that those who are in a hurry can pass on the right. • When riding in taxis, the left rear door is operated automatically by the driver so don’t try to open or close it by yourself. – There are several train etiquettes that you should remember when in Japan, number one of which is to keep the noise down to a minimum. So when it comes to local train tickets in Tokyo, there are several types that you can choose from but what I would highly recommend is that if you’re  only  planning on traveling  INSIDE  Tokyo, buy the prepaid IC cards (like  Suica ) that can be used in any train or bus in the city. NOTE : There is also the option of buying the  Tokyo Subway Ticket  which will give you UNLIMITED access to all subway lines of Toei and Tokyo Metro (but NOT JR lines, which is fine since most key places in Tokyo are accessible via Toei and Tokyo Metro). There are options for this for 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours. Now, I only find this choice as economical IF, and only if, you are going to ride the train for MULTIPLE times in a day or a span of days. But if let’s say, you’re only going to one place or district in a day, then just use your IC card as normal. On the other hand, if you’re traveling  outside  of Tokyo, that’s a different matter since I would then recommend that you consider buying a  Japan Rail Pass  or  JR pass  for unlimited rides. To see if buying this train pass will be worth it for your Japan itinerary, go and read my explanation  here .

Please check their  latest travel advisories  page for more details.

Come and check out this list of the top things to do which features the best activities and tours to do in Tokyo’s Asakusa, Shibuya, and more!

Want a detailed Tokyo travel guide?

For more info about the best months to visit Tokyo, how to get around, etc. — come and read my Japan Itinerary guide!

Tokyo Itinerary Guide

IMPORTANT NOTES: – The following section is in a tabbed format; so, in order to see the next day’s contents, just click the headings below. – I will also cover other Japan destinations under the ‘ Extras ‘ tab below so that you can consider these places if you happen to have more days for your Tokyo itinerary trip, or if you simply want to see more.

REMINDER : Going from one place to another within Tokyo can often take 30 minutes to an hour — or even more! (Always check by Google Maps to verify your travel times). . Therefore, even if it is humanly possible to go to ALL of the attractions listed below per day for your Tokyo itinerary, it’s best that you DON’T because you will definitely be running around. This is why I suggest that you pick out the TOP spots that you really like and then save the rest for later, or for other days (in case you have more days in Tokyo).

Explore the West of Tokyo

This is said to be a major nightlife area but it’s also a major shopping and entertainment venue especially because of its strong youth presence towards fashion and culture.

Where to eat in Shibuya?

• Yakiniku (grilled meat) : Yakiniku-Tei Rokkasen
• Conveyor belt sushi: Genki Sushi
• Ramen: Ichiran Ramen  (one of the best I’ve tried!)

Where to sleep in Shibuya?

• Luxury: The Westin Tokyo
• Mid-Range: Shibuya Granbell Hotel  or AirBnB
• Budget: Almond Hostel & Cafe
• ★ Shibuya Crossing: Found in front of the Hachiko Exit, this is arguably the most prominent landmark of the district and the most photographed spot in the area. If you want to get a good view of it, go to the QFRONT building where a big Starbucks cafe is found. It’s best to come during rush hour to see an impressive sight but be prepared for crowds inside the cafe. TIP: If you want a higher bird’s eye view, prepare your zoom-in lens and go to Shibuya Hikarie shopping mall’s Sky Lobby on the 11th Floor.
• Hachiko Statue: Hachiko is the name of an admired Akita breed dog in Japanese culture back in the 30s who exemplified superb loyalty to his owner even after his owner’s death. Up to this day, Hachiko has been remembered for these amazing traits and that’s why this bronze statue of him in front of Shibuya Station remains to be a well-revered point in Japan. With that, don’t forget to stop by here for your Tokyo itinerary! ALTERNATIVE: For a lesser crowd, there’s a bigger statue of Hachiko along with his master, Professor Ueno, at the grounds of UTokyo or the University of Tokyo. .
• TIP : Rainbow Karaoke in Modi is incredibly stylish yet cheap, Karaoke Kan is famed for being the location of the movie ( Lost in Translation )’s karaoke scene, or for the more standard chain, Big Echo is a good choice.
• Love Hotel Hill: This is where you can find the biggest concentration of love hotels in Tokyo, and though it’s not a typical item on a ‘ things to do in Tokyo ‘ list, it can be an amusing thing in itself especially if you’re traveling with your loved one — largely because of how the rooms are delightfully themed. Just be warned though that some love hotels don’t accept same-sex couples or even two foreigners. Nevertheless, you can rest in a room for 1-4 hours at around 1,500 yen ($15~) per hour or stay in a room overnight for as low as 7,000 yen ($68~). .
• For nightlife Two of the most brilliant clubs would first be the mammoth super club ageHA with over 4 dance floors, an outdoor pool, and an outdoor dance tent; and second, the laser-filled Womb club with its identifiable giant mirror ball. TIP: Better yet, get this Tokyo Nightclub Pass that grants you UNLIMITED entry to the top 7 nightclubs in Tokyo! .
• ★ Don Quijote (for everything under the sun) , Loft (for stationery) , and/or Tokyu Hands: These shops are great to include in your Tokyo itinerary if you’re looking for cheap souvenirs, novelty items, stationaries, and more! The Shibuya branch of Don Quijote is the biggest in Japan so make sure to drop by there.
• Center Gai, Koen Dori, Spain Slope, and/or Shibuya 109: The first 3 are distinct shopping streets in Shibuya, whereas Shibuya 109 is a complex that you don’t want to miss out if you want to do some serious shopping!
• Shimokitazawa : This nearby district is a great ‘bohemian’ spot if you’re looking for vintage and second-hand items and clothes.

◘◘ Harajuku

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Known for its fashion scene, quirky culture, cosplay shops, and so much more!

Where to eat in Harajuku?

• Fluffy pancakes: Cafe & Pancakes Gram
• Crepes: Marion Crepes
• Gyoza: Harajuku Gyoza Lou

Where to sleep in Harajuku?

• TIP : If you want to witness a traditional Japanese Shinto wedding, head here around 10AM and try your luck!
• Yoyogi Park: A typical meeting place for Japanese people from all ‘walks of life’. Since it’s just near the trendy Harajuku, you will normally find crowds of band members, lolitas , cosplayers, and fashionistas in interesting clothing (they’re sometimes concentrated around Jingubashi or the bridge near Meiji Shrine). Taking photos of these people in fancy clothing is perfectly fine, but it’s best if you ask for permission first since not all of them are there to please the crowd — they’re usually just there to hang out or do practices etc. .
• TIP : Wanna do a guided tour? Take this Harajuku half-day tour that will take you through Takeshita as well as grant you access to some of the district’s top cafes!
• Cat Street: If you want to stray away from Takeshita Dori’s crowd during your Tokyo itinerary, this is the next best place to be.
• Omotesando: If Paris has Champs-Elysees, Japan has Omotesando. If Takeshita Dori is more for low to mid-level shoppers, Omotesando is more for older or wealthier shoppers. TIP: Drop by Espace Luis Vuitton Tokyo which is found on the top floor of its building to find an amazing art space — not to mention that the bathrooms are really fancy haha.
• Daiso Harajuku: This is one of Japan’s famous 100-yen variety-store shops that offer affordable housewares, toys, stationery, decorations, bento supplies, gifts, and more!
• Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku: This is a multi-story shopping center that recently became even more popular because of its kaleidoscope-like entrance that’s made of dozens of tilted mirrors. Don’t miss out as well on its rooftop terrace area on the 6th floor if you want views over Harajuku. .
• Maison de Jullieta: Kawaii (cute) culture is a ‘thing’ among the Japanese and one of those kawaii fashion styles would be the sweet lolita look. In Maison de Jullieta in Harajuku, you can dress up as one — complete with costume, makeup, and hair arrangement at a price of around 10,000 yen ($97~)!
• Kawaii Cafe: In line with Harajuku’s colorful splash of colors and eccentric atmosphere, there exists the Kawaii Monster-the med cafe! With over 5 separately themed areas, the cafe is like a rainbowholic’s paradise where every corner is filled with kawaii decoration and Instagram-worthy scenes.
• ★ Purikura: Purikura runs like a photo booth — but different in a Japanese kind of way and it’s widely popular among females. Through these machines, you can take photos of yourself or your friends in a studio-esque booth; after which, you will be digitally enhanced. By that, I mean automatically Photoshopped in a kawaii manner: bigger eyes, whiter skin, and narrower face.
• Mameshiba Cafe: If you want to snuggle adorable Shiba Inu dogs for 30 minutes, there is this small cafe in Harajuku that you could visit. Personally, I don’t find it worth it (nor do I support animal cafes in general) but I leave this up here so you can decide what to do.

◘◘ Shinjuku

As a major city center, Shinjuku has the busiest train station in the world (Shinjuku Station), it houses the administration center for the Tokyo government, and holds a plethora of amazing things to do in Tokyo!

Where to eat in Shinjuku? Other than going to Golden Gai, Omoide Yokocho or Shin-Okubo Koreatown, go to…

• Guenpin Fugu: 玄品ふぐ
• Sushi: Yachiyo

Where to sleep in Shinjuku?

• Luxury: Park Hyatt Tokyo
• Mid-Range: Hotel Sunroute Higashi Shinjuku or AirBnB
• Budget: Imano Tokyo Hostel
• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: Towering at 243m, this structure has two towers and each of these has an observatory that visitors can visit for FREE in order to get a bird’s eye view of Tokyo. TIP: I recommend the southern tower since it shows a better ‘side’ of Tokyo (closes at 5:30PM), whereas the northern tower is best for night shots since it closes later into the night (until 11PM).
• Shinjuku Gyoen: Best visited during the sakura and fall season, this place is just a stone’s throw away from Shinjuku station and it is one of the city’s largest and most favored parks. Here, you will find three different gardens, a traditional Japanese landscape garden, a French garden, and an English landscape garden.
• Samurai Museum: As a Japanophile , I have also been enchanted by the culture and history of the samurai (or bushi ) — Japan’s notable military warriors. Adults can enter for a fee of 1,800 yen ($18~) in order to see the impressive exhibits; but the highlight of this place is probably the experiences that you can try: photoshoot with basic samurai gear (500 yen $5), sword battle performance with an actor (free), samurai calligraphy lesson (500 yen or $5~) , and professional photo shoot with full samurai gear (starts at 32,000 yen or $320~). .
• TIP : The shops predominantly only speak Japanese so it’s best that you book here for a guided tour so you don’t miss out on anything during your Tokyo itinerary!
• TIP : Book here for a guided tour so you don’t have to fumble around.
• Kabukicho: This is the entertainment and red-light district in Shinjuku which is sometimes called the “Sleepless Town”. Unlike Amsterdam which features prostitutes on windows of their buildings, Kabukicho has a more subdued collection as it only includes hostess clubs, love hotels, massage parlors, and more (prostitution is illegal in Japan). Unless you want to avail these kinds of services during your Tokyo itinerary, I just find this an interesting place to see in Tokyo as a regular tourist. Rest assured, I felt entirely safe walking around here since it didn’t feel seedy. In fact, you might not even notice that you’re already in Kabukicho! Also, one particular thing about Kabukicho that I best liked to see or observe was the pachinko parlors. (Pachinko is an insanely popular game in Japan that somehow resembles pinball.) .
• ★ Robot Restaurant: Tokyo, the land of the weird (as some would say) lives up to its name because it offers several themed restaurants like The LockUp (prison-like), Zauo (fish for your own food), and Alice in Wonderland Restaurant (self-explanatory). But the most entertaining and bizarre themed restaurant I’ve visited? That would be Robot Restaurant in Kabukicho area. A structure of glitz, lasers, and robots, my ‘ordeal’ in this restaurant was… undescribable — in a good way!
• Godzilla: Japan’s famous giant monster and pop culture icon, Godzilla , can be seen here atop Toho Cinemas. It’s a nice spectacle because he looks like he’s taking a peak from the building — seconds away from wreaking utter havoc .
• Animal Cafes: Plenty of people would recommend that you go to Tokyo’s well-liked animal cafés such as the cat café, owl café, rabbit café, goat café, etc. (There are lots of them found around Shinjuku such as Cat Cafe Calico, etc.). I don’t like them though because I’m uncomfortable with the idea of keeping multiple animals in such a small space with strangers that they’re not that accustomed to — but, I leave it up to you to decide what you would do.

Explore the East of Tokyo

This is said to be the center of Tokyo’s shitamachi (“low city”) — which means that it’s an ‘olden’ district where you can get a feel of how Tokyo was in the past decades.

Where to eat in Asakusa?

• Okonomiyaki:  Asakusa Okonomiyaki Sometaro
• Kaiseki (Traditional Japanese cuisine): Kikko
• Buffet: Sky Grill
• Luxury: The Gate Hotel Asakusa
• Mid-Range: Asakusa View Hotel or AirBnB
• Budget: Backpackers Hostel K’s House Tokyo
• ★ Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Shrine:  Take note that a shrine is dedicated to the Shinto faith, whereas a temple is dedicated to Buddhism. These two places are the main highlight of Asakusa with Senso-ji being the oldest temple in Tokyo. There is also an impressive “Thunder Gate” called Kaminarimon (which is a symbol of Asakusa and Tokyo) in front of the temple.
• Sumida River and Park:  For a leisurely stroll during your Tokyo itinerary, go over to Sumida River and lounge by Sumida Park which stretches on both sides of this body of water. Like what you’d expect, there are cherry blossoms here that come alive in spring, and then during July on its last Saturday, this becomes a great spot for viewing the Sumida River Firework. (If you see a golden building with an odd golden structure on top that looks like a teardrop, that’s the Asahi Beer Tower with its ‘Asahi Flame’.) .
• READ : My kimono rental guide here to learn more about the process.
• Samurai Armor rental: You can take a step further and rent to wear Japan’s famous traditional warrior’s (samurai’s) armor! If you book this activity online , you can even have a professional photographer take photos of you.
• Rickshaw ride:  To complete your kimono look, I recommend that you  rent a traditional Japanese rickshaw  which will take you around key spots in Asakusa.
• Tea ceremony:  Highly influenced by the principles of Zen Buddhism and a well-respected hobby, the Japanese Tea Ceremony (also known as the ‘Way of the Tea’) is a traditional cultural activity that is elaborate and refined, and in which  matcha or powdered green tea is prepared and drunk by a host. To be frank with you: this is a very long ceremony where you will sit motionless for hours as you follow a set of guidelines… but it is a striking example of Japan’s amazing culture that is exceptional for immersing one’s self. For a good place to try this in, go here .
• Hanayashiki:  If you’re up for it, this is said to be Japan’s oldest amusement park (built in 1853) and it can be a quirky thing to do on your Tokyo itinerary. .
• ★ Nakamise shopping street:  Stretching at about 250 meters from Kaminarimon to the main grounds of Sensoji Temple is this picturesque shopping street with over 50 shops that offer local specialties and the usual array of tourist souvenirs.
• Shin-Nakamise:  Also called “New Nakamise”, this runs perpendicular to the Nakamise Shopping Street and is in line with various shops and restaurants.
• Asakusa Kagetsudo:  This is a famous melon-pan store that has been running since 1945. Melon-pan is basically a sweet baked bread with an outer layer that looks like a melon — so it’s just named that because of its appearance and not because it tastes like a melon. When you buy from this store, it is best to eat it when warm.

◘◘ Akihabara

Dubbed the otaku*  cultural center and tech shopping district of Japan, walking through Akihabara’s main street called Chuo-dori will already give you an idea of what this district is all about.

You see, Japan may have an amazing ancient culture, BUT it has also developed an equally amazing modern  culture over the recent years, and it is in Akihabara that you can get a glimpse of this somewhat wacky ‘evolution’. *Japanese term for people who have obsessive interests commonly towards anime and manga. A synonymous word in English would be ‘geeks’.

Where to eat in Akihabara?

• Maid Cafe:  Maidreamin
• Themed restaurant: Ninja Akasaka
• Hotpot: Merino

Where to sleep in Akihabara?

• Budget: Grids Tokyo Akihabara
• Mid-Range: Hotel Niwa Tokyo or AirBnB
• Luxury: Hotel Ryumeikan Ochanomizu Honten
• Maid cafe: A lot of people in Tokyo love to cosplay — a form of roleplaying where people wear costumes to represent a character (often found in animes and mangas).  One of the good ol’ favorites of the Japanese when it comes to cosplaying or dressing up are waitresses dressed in frilly Victorian maid costumes. In line with their character, they will even act as if they’re servants and then treat others as their masters. Now apply that idea to a café, splash it with small games, cutesy demeanor, brief performances, and picture-taking with customers and that’s where you get the famed maid cafes of Japan. TIP: Another great place to try in Akihabara aside from Maidreamin would be @Home Cafe.
• ★ Arcades:  I’ve been to so many arcades BUT, they’re not as insanely amazing, bright, exciting, and numerous as what Tokyo has! One of the most known gaming arcades in Tokyo would be Taito Station . (You could also do purikura inside these arcades).
• ★ Go Kart: Come live on the edge and explore downtown Tokyo in a cool Go Kart while you’re dressed in popular cosplay costumes! With this fun driving tour on your Tokyo itinerary, you can opt to do a one-hour experience or a whole-day affair. .
• Yodabashi:  If you have time to visit only 1 tech gadget store in the district, then this 9-story building is your best bet! After all, it is proven that their items are usually cheaper than in Europe.
• Mandarake or Tokyo Anime Center: A gigantic 8-floor complex that is full of merchandise related to anime and manga; so it is the best go-to space if you’re a hardcore  otaku or at least a knowledgeable one at that. Whereas I believe that a visit to the Tokyo Anime Center is best done first by people who have no idea of the  otaku scene in order to gain a better understanding of it.

The most noteworthy attractions that you should visit in this ward would have to be the following:

• Tokyo Skytree: At 634m, this is the tallest tower in the world. It is primarily a television and radio broadcast site for the Kanto Region; but for travelers, you can visit the large shopping complex, aquarium, and planetarium that are located at its base. And of course, for sky-high views of the city, Tokyo Skytree has two observation decks and you can purchase your tickets here .
• TIP : To reserve your sumo tickets for Japan’s Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournament, go to this link . For the months wherein tournaments are not held, you can get a close-up look at the sumo wrestlers’ morning fight practices via this tour .

Mt. Fuji Tour

◘◘ Mt. Fuji

Chureito Pagoda from Shutterstock.com

It’s time to check out Mt. Fuji or ‘Fuji-san’ (it’s how the locals commonly call it).

As the country’s tallest peak, it has been considered one of the most iconic sights in Japan so it would be a good idea to temporarily escape Tokyo’s bustle and dedicate this day to a bit of nature.

Now, there are several ways for seeing this active volcano in all its glory but below are the best locations for viewing it that you must include on your Tokyo itinerary.

– Some people do one of the places below as a day trip, while others as an overnight trip to also experience staying in a  ryokan  (traditional Japanese inn). It’s totally up to you, but naturally, if you’re short on time, making it as a day trip would be enough. – Clouds often block the view of Mount Fuji so you have to consider yourself as lucky if you get a clear view of it (it’s only visible for about 80 days a year). It is said that visibility tends to be better during the colder seasons of the year than in summer. Otherwise, it’s great in the early morning or late evening hours compared to the middle of the day.

• To save up on transportation costs, get a Hakone Free Pass to gain unlimited travel on eight transportation options including the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise (Pirate Ship) , Hakone Tozan Train, Hakone Tozan Bus, Hakone Tozan Cable Car, and Hakone Ropeway.
• For a hassle-free experience, you can take a Hakone day tour that already includes a stop at Mt. Fuji and some other interesting activities like a lake cruise and more. .
• For a hassle-free experience, you can take a Mt Fuji day tour to this lake region with the inclusion of Kachi Kachi Ropeway, and more.
• A different option is to rather go to  Chureito Pagoda  (pictured above) which is still part of Fuji Five Lakes but not found within Lake Kawaguchiko. This spot is a favorite among photographers, especially during spring or autumn and it’s easy to see why! (This tour includes this pagoda as a stop). .
• For a hassle-free experience, you can do a  Kamakura + Enoshima day tour. .
• Enoshima:  (1hr from Tokyo)  This is a touristic island that offers a variety of attractions (Enoshima Shrine) , beaches, parks, an observation tower, and caves (Iwaya Caves).  If I say so myself, doing a  Kamakura + Enoshima day tour would be ideal if you want to check out both of these towns. .
• Fuji Shibazakura Festival:   (2hrs from Tokyo) This is a famous time-limited event that is usually held at Fuji Motosuko Resort from the middle of April to late May. If you have the time, I recommend doing a sakura tour of this festival as it features over 80,000 blooming shibazakura  (pink, red, and white mountain phlox flowers) over 6 acres of sloping hills. Pair this off with a great view of Mt. Fuji and it instantly becomes an Instagrammable spot!

Other Options Near Tokyo

◘◘ Other Day Trip Options from Tokyo

Below are other interesting day trips that you can do for your Tokyo itinerary!

• TIP : For a hassle-free experience, you can do a Nikko day tour from Tokyo that includes stopovers at Tochogu Shrine, Kegon Falls, Tsukiji Hitachiya & Futarasan Shrine. .
• TIP: You can avail of a ‘ Yokohama and Kamakura Enjoy Pass ‘ to enjoy the major sightseeing attractions in these cities. .
• Kusatsu: (3hrs from Tokyo) This is a sound trip to make if you want to visit one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts. In fact, Kusatsu Onsen is blessed with large volumes of high-quality spring water which makes it popular among locals and tourists alike. You will love the atmosphere here as you find almost everyone wearing yukata/kimono on the streets. Otherwise, when winter comes, the town becomes a great ski resort to visit. .
• Chichibu: (2hrs from Tokyo) This city is a great place to escape to during your Tokyo itinerary if you want to get away from the city. After all, its forested mountains provide impressive nature views and hiking opportunities. One of the most sought-after events here, it’s the Chichibu Night Festival in December and its Hitsujiyama Park in Spring ( for its beautiful pink moss park).

Explore the Rest of Tokyo

Naturally, there’s more to Tokyo than the sights I’ve mentioned in days #1 and #2 above. So in order to fill up your Tokyo itinerary with other activities for your extra days in the capital, below are some considerations that you can make.

◘◘ Other Places West of Tokyo

Where to eat in Roppongi?

• Toriyaki (skewered meat): Toriko
• Michelin Kaiseki Restaurant: Kien
• Seafood Izakaya: Isomaru Suisan

Where to sleep in Roppongi?

• Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo
• Mid-Range: Hotel Risveglio Akasaka or AirBnB
• Budget: The Wardrobe Hostel Roppongi
• ROPPONGI HILLS: Up to do partying for your Tokyo itinerary?! If your answer is a resounding YES, come dive into the best nightclub scene over at Roppongi! This district is famous among locals and expats alike — which is not surprising given how Roppongi Hills is one of Japan’s richest and largest property developments. .
• To enjoy the picturesque rooftop views on Mori Tower’s 52nd floor, just book an Observation Deck ticket online .
• Below Mori Tower, you will find a giant spider sculpture called Maman which means ‘mother’ in French. This is made by the artist Louise Bourgeois .
• Tokyo Midtown is yet another building that you can go into if you’re up for more shopping and entertainment.
• During Christmas, head to the area in Mori Tower that faces Keyakizaka Street in Roppongi Hills to see a great view of Tokyo Tower being illuminated by the street lights. Whereas if you go to Tokyo Midtown, you will find the Starlight Garden which has over 280,000 lights that are magically spread out on the grounds! .
• ★ Tokyo Tower: At a height of 333 meters, this is like a replica of the famous Eiffel Tower. Made after Japan’s post-war rebirth, this used to be the country’s tallest tower — until Tokyo Skytree was made in 2012. Despite this fact, the tower’s prime location is still a splendid place to see a panoramic view of the city. There are 2 observatories here: the main one at 150m high and the special one at 250m high. The entrance is 900 yen ($9~) for the main observation deck and 1,600 ($16~) yen for both decks. To book your tickets, go here . .
• Nightlife: Clubs and bars in Roppongi can be a dizzying encounter for a first-timer; so it’s actually preferable if you visit this with a local. Otherwise, just a bit of advice: avoid the men (generally African men) who would try to push you into going to their clubs! More often than not, those are seedy ones, and later on, they might even overcharge you. For the best clubs to go to, I suggest Jumanji55 , V2 Tokyo , or Club Brand Tokyo which all have a good mix of locals and foreigners. Better yet, get this Tokyo Nightclub Pass that grants you UNLIMITED entry to the top 7 nightclubs in Tokyo! .
• Hie Shrine: For your Tokyo itinerary, you don’t need to travel all the way to Kyoto to witness a Shinto shrine with multiple iconic red torii (traditional Japanese gate) because you can find this right in the heart of the capital! Otherwise, there’s also a similar one called Nezu Shrine.

◘◘ Other Places East of Tokyo

• Imperial Palace: This is the main residence of the Emperor of Japan and it’s actually a massive park surrounded by moats. It contains buildings including the palace, private residences of the Imperial Family, offices, museums, and more.
• ★ Chidorigafuchi: Located just at the northwest section of the Imperial Palace is this moat section. This area is highly recommended during sakura season as it is one of the best spots for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). To add: they regularly light up the trees at night during that period and then you can even rent boats there!
• Tokyo Central Railway Station: This is the busiest railway station in Japan in terms of the number of trains per day and it’s quite a sight to see! For starters, you’ll instantly find this building because of its red brick appearance — a look that survived from when it was first opened in 1914.

Where to eat in Odaiba?

• Curise Restaurant: Harumiya
• Buffet: Ocean Club
• Yakinuku: Yakiniku Toraji

Where to sleep in Odaiba?

• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel
• Mid-Range: Park Hotel Tokyo or AirBnB
• Budget: Kaisu Hostel
• DiverCity Tokyo Plaza: This is a dining, entertainment, and shopping complex that also features attractions related to the famous Gundam anime series. Truth be told, it also has a life-size Gundam statue in front of its building.
• Fuji TV Area : This is called such because of how the Fuji TV Building (one of Japan’s biggest TV stations) towers above everything else. As a visitor, you could definitely go into Fuji TV’s observatory deck that’s located in the circular portion of the establishment. Other things to see around here would be the shopping mall of Decks Tokyo Beach and the scenic Rainbow Bridge (which looks dashing at night, and where you can also find a replica of the Statue of Liberty.)
• Palette Town: If you’re up for some serious entertainment and shopping spree activities, I suggest that you head on to Palette Town! Here, you can find the following venues: Venus Fort (a mall that looks like a European town), Toyota Mega Web (a car showroom where you can test drive cars), and Leisureland (a large gaming complex).
• TeamLab : Yet another Instagrammable attraction, this interactive museum is well-known for digital and light art. It’s a great inclusion to your Tokyo itinerary and in order to book your tickets, just go here .
• ★ Oedo Onsen Monogatari: If you can’t afford to go to a hot springs resort town, this is the next best thing for your Tokyo itinerary! This is basically a hot spring theme park that emulates the atmosphere of the Edo Period. You can enjoy various types of indoor and outdoor baths, restaurants, massage, games, and other entertainment while wearing a yukata (traditional Japanese wear). To reserve tickets for this, go here .
• ★ Tsukiji Market: Fish is a big business in Japan and the Tsukiji Market is a marvelous point for observing this lively industry as well as tasting its fresh produce. To date, this market has been divided into two, one of which is still found near Tsukiji Shijo Station and the other near Odaiba. If you want a guided day tour here, book an experience here .

Photo from Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Where to eat in Ginza?

• Wagyu: Ginza Enzo
• Michelin Restaurant: Ibuki
• Crab: Uoya Iccho

Where to sleep in Ginza?

• Luxury: Imperial Hotel Tokyo
• Mid-Range: Hotel Sunroute Ginza or AirBnB
• Budget: Imano Tokyo Ginza Hostel
• TIP : Make the most of this area’s local flavors and drinking spots during your Tokyo itinerary by doing a ‘ Tokyo After 5 ‘ tour!
• If you want the best ‘festive’ experience of this street, I suggest walking through here on weekends from 12PM to 5PM (until 6PM during April to September) because it is customarily closed to automobile traffic — an event known as ‘Pedestrians’ Paradise’.
• Depachika : This is a combination of the words depato (department store) and chika (basement). In Japan, most of the big department stores such as Mitsukoshi have their basement floor made into some sort of food market — but actually, if I have to describe it myself, I will call it a ‘food theme park’ because you can get to have a fun yet quick introduction into the VAST variety of Japanese food there — including square watermelons and insanely priced strawberries! Anyhow, the stalls are very generous with giving away samples too; so if you’re on a budget, you really don’t have to buy something (though it will be respectful to do so, naturally haha).

Extra Activities and Destinations

◘◘ Near Tokyo

• To book discounted tickets, reserve your spot here. .
• To book discounted tickets, reserve your spot here.

◘◘ Outside and Far from Tokyo

• For a detailed guide on what to do in Kyoto, see this Japan itinerary .
• Osaka & Nara: Osaka is known for its nightlife and street food, whilst Nara is for its deer parks. See this Japan itinerary guide for what you can do.
• Hiroshima: Mainly well known for its aspirations of tranquility with its Peace Memorial Park, this page can help guide you on your top must-dos.
• ★ Kinosaki: Located about 3 hours away from Kyoto, this is a pleasant onsen town that has a great atmosphere. I stayed here before for 2 nights and I loved strolling around the town in my yukata and geta (wooden clogs), feeling like a local! After all, everyone (locals and foreigners alike) who visit the town almost always wears the same attire when going about the place onward to the public baths — so it’s quite a sight to see. Truly a great addition to your Tokyo itinerary!
• See here for a list of things to do in Okinawa .
• Himeji: This place is most famous for its Himeji Castle which is typically considered to be Japan’s most beautiful surviving feudal castle. Because of this, it is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national treasure.
• See here for a list of things to do in Kobe .

• See here for a list of things to do in Hokkaido .
• Niigata Prefecture: A New Japan Foodie Destination
• Nagoya: Also found within the Chubu region is Nagoya which is known for its towering castle. Other notable sites are as follows: Korankei, City Science Museum, Atsuta Shrine, and Railway Museum. For food, check out Sekai no Yamachan , a famous izakaya (Japanese pub) in the city that serves flavorful “legendary chicken wings”.
• Kanazawa: This is the capital of the Ishikawa prefecture and it boasts historical attractions as well as its ‘ Kenrokuen ‘ — said to be one of the 3 best landscape gardens in Japan.
• Kiso Valley: Nestled within Nagano prefecture is this valley which holds an ancient 70km trade route called Kisoji which was later on combined with other routes forming the 500km long Nakasendo . Today, nearby post towns of Magome, Tsumago, and Narai are flocked by visitors not only to hike through the Nakasendo but to also revel in the traditional stone paths and wooden buildings of these quaint towns.
• Things to do in Matsumoto
• For more info, read here .
• Things to do in Takayama
• Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route: If you’re up for incredible and unique nature activities in Japan, it’s a MUST to visit the stunning mountain sightseeing route that’s commonly referred to as the “Roof of Japan”. A crowd favorite as of late is its grand ‘Snow Wall’ that’s open from mid-April to late June! For more info, read here .
• You can do this as a tour on your itinerary with Klook .
• Shibu Onsen: An old-fashioned hot spring town
• Shiga Kogen Resort: The largest ski resort in Japan.

Booking Essentials

TIP: It’s a good idea to crosscheck the prices with other popular travel insurance providers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)! . However, take note that a travel insurance’s affordability typically means lesser coverage; so please always ensure that you read the fine print in order to decipher which travel insurance company is the right fit for you and your trip!

The Best Tours in Tokyo?

Come and check out this list of the top things to do in Tokyo which features the best activities and tours in and out of the city!

I hope this all helped make things clearer for you as you map out your Tokyo itinerary. Feel free to also tweak it and make full use of the extra activity suggestions in order to make your trip shorter or longer and better fitting for your travel style.

All in all, do let me know how your trip goes, and do enjoy!

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Hey there! I am Aileen Adalid. At 21, I quit my corporate job in the Philippines to pursue my dreams. Today, I am a successful  digital nomad  (online entrepreneur, travel writer, & vlogger) living a sustainable travel lifestyle.

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Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

Top 10 Japan Travel Hacks and Tips

Here are 10 Japan travel hacks and tips that will make your trip almost infinitely better.

• Don’t wait on line when you arrive in Japan
• Buy a SUICA card
• Use Japan’s luggage delivery services
• Stay in nicer rooms in cheaper hotels
• Travel light
• Take taxis when it makes sense
• Fly domestically
• Stay at the airport
• Eat at restaurant floors
• Change at Shinagawa Station en route from Kyoto to Narita

Scroll down for all the details.

1. Don’t wait on line when you arrive in Japan

Activating your rail pass at the airport when you arrive in Japan makes no sense, especially at Haneda where there’s no JR service into Tokyo. But even at Narita , where there is JR service, it’s a bad idea. You’ll most likely spend the first few days of your trip exploring Tokyo, and it’s crazy to use a Japan Rail Pass for that. More importantly, who wants to wait in a long line after an even longer plane flight? You can pick up/buy/activate a Japan Rail Pass later on in the city. Here’s the line at the JR Travel Service Center at Haneda, and the situation is the same at Narita:

So how do you avoid any lines at the airport? Easy: Use a prepaid transport card (like a Welcome Suica or Pasmo Passport) instead of a train ticket. From Narita, the card will cover your basic fare on the Narita Express or Keisei Skyliner into town and you can buy a reserved seat/express ticket with cash on the platform. From Haneda, the card will cover your fare on the Tokyo Monorail or the Keikyu Line. You can easily buy a Welcome Suica card (specially designed for tourists) from a machine like the one below outside the JR turnstiles at Narita. If the line is long for Welcome Suica cards, then simply go to a regular ticket counter (not the larger travel services offices) and pay cash or credit card for a one-way ticket into the city.

Be aware that Suica (and Pasmo) cards are becoming harder to get in Japan due to IC chip shortages. However, the tourist versions called Welcome Suica and Pasmo Passport are still available at the airport (and some other locations in the case of the Pasmo Passport). See this page for details.

If you’ve got an iPhone and Apple Wallet linked to a MasterCard or American Express card, you can also get a digital IC card on your phone. See this page for details.

2. Buy a Welcome Suica or Pasmo Passport card

Skipping lines at the airport is only the first of the many benefits of a prepaid transport card (like a Welcome Suica or Pasmo Passport). These cards can be used to pay for most of your daily expenses while in Japan: all local transport (buses, subways, trains and many taxis), convenience stores, vending machines, coin lockers, and many shops and restaurants. In fact, the only things you probably won’t pay for with your transport card are hotels, ryokan, shinkansen, expensive restaurants and shops.

So, in a word: you NEED a prepaid transport card in Japan. Note that the cards are not city-specific, so you can use your transport cards across Japan (ditto for the Kansai version,  Icoca ). Be aware that Suica and Pasmo cards are becoming harder to get in Japan due to IC chip shortages. However, the tourist versions called Welcome Suica and Pasmo Passport are still available at the airport (and some other locations in the case of the Pasmo Passport). See  this page for details.

3. Use Japan’s luggage delivery (takkyubin) services

Dragging heavy luggage through train stations and onto crowded trains is a sure-fire way to make your journey miserable (and to mark you as a newb in Japan). If your suitcase won’t fit into an overhead bin on a plane, it won’t fit on the shinkansen. The only exception is the space behind the last row of seats, but you need a special ticket to put your suitcases there.

The solution? Use Japan’s fantastic luggage delivery (takkyubin) services. For about $20, they’ll ship your suitcase overnight to most destinations in Japan. So, you can send your suitcase from the airport to your hotel in Tokyo, or from your hotel in Tokyo to your hotel in Kyoto etc. You just need a smaller knapsack or laptop bag to carry your phone/laptop, charger, travel documents, meds and perhaps a change of clothes. For all the details, see Luggage Shipping: The Smart Way to Travel in Japan .

4. Stay in nicer rooms in cheaper hotels

This killer hack can save you thousands on your trip and allow you to stay in luxurious rooms for mid-range prices: Instead of paying a premium for an international luxury brand, just move up to a better room in a good mid-range Japanese brand. When you run the numbers, it’s a no-brainer.

On an average day in May 2023, standard rooms at the international luxury brand hotels in Kyoto are well north of US$1,000 and those rooms average 45 square meters in size. Meanwhile, a corner twin at the excellent Kyoto Hotel Okura is around US$300 and they’re 53 square meters (ie, huge). Likewise, a corner king at the Cross Hotel Kyoto is around US$350 and they’re 42 square meters, which is plenty spacious.

This also works great in Tokyo at places like the Okura Tokyo , Century Southern Tower , the Cerulean Tower and the Mimaru chain.

You can compare the different room rates and the availability of accommodation for your specific dates on Booking.com .

Check Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

5. Travel light

I’m always flabbergasted at the amount of stuff some people bring to Japan – it’s like they’re packing for an assault on Mt Everest.

The fact is, you can buy almost anything you’ve forgotten in Japan. Clothes? Just hit Uniqlo. Electronics, camera gear and computer stuff? Bic Camera. Over-the-counter meds and cosmetics? Any drug store in Japan. The only things that are hard to get are prescription meds (but you can get them at hospitals and clinics) and large-size clothes, particularly shoes. As long as you stay in a place with washing machines every few days, you can easily tour Japan in a warm season with nothing more than a large knapsack. And a wheelie bag is more than enough, even in winter. The fact is, you never really need a full-size suitcase.

The perfect way to travel in Japan is with a wheelie bag for your big stuff and a lighter bag for the stuff you need at hand. Here’s the kit I use when traveling in Japan:

The bigger bag is a wheelie made by Kathmandu, an excellent Australian outdoor brand. Sadly, they no longer make the same bag (I woulda bought three had I known). The smaller bag is made by Kingsons . I ran into a guy on the Kumano Kodo who was hiking with one of them. They are absurdly cheap and they hold up for years. They’ll hold a laptop, your docs and phone, and you can squeeze in a change of clothes. You can see me wearing mine in the picture at the top of this article.

6. Take taxis when it makes sense

Some people seem religiously opposed to taking taxis in Japan . But there are times when it just makes sense.

For example, in Kyoto, if you’re on the west side exploring Arashiyama (the Bamboo Forest etc), you might also want to check out another west side attraction like Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion). If you go by public transport, it will take you at least an hour, you’ll probably have to change trains or buses at least once, and it will cost you a few hundred yen per person. In contrast, a taxi will only take about 20 minutes and cost around Y2500 for the whole car. Up to three adults can split the cost, making it only a bit more expensive than the public transport route. But the time savings is the main factor: You didn’t come to Japan to spend your precious time standing on line at a crowded bus stop.

7. Fly domestically

Japan’s trains are fantastic and there’s nothing like a long shinkansen ride with a hot cuppa and a good book. But some rides are just too long. For example, to go by train from Tokyo to Kagoshima (southern Kyushu) takes 7 hours on the fastest trains (which you cannot ride with a Japan Rail Pass), while the flight takes 1 hour and 50 minutes. Likewise, trains from Tokyo to Sapporo (Hokkaido) will take a minimum of 8 hours, while a plane will take 1 hour and 40 minutes. Keep in mind that flying domestically in Japan is WAY more pleasant than in North America or Europe, and with Japan’s new low-cost carriers, it can be amazingly cheap.

You can quickly look up domestic flights on a flight comparison website to find the best deals.

8. Stay at the airport

If you’re arriving late into Japan and you don’t want to deal with getting into the city, why not spend your first night at an airport hotel? This works great at Haneda and Kansai airports, which have fantastic (and reasonably priced) hotels right in the terminals. And it’s highly recommended if you’re traveling with young children or coming off a long flight. If this is your first time to Japan, your first impressions will be so much better seen through rested eyes.

Likewise, if you’ve got an early flight home, staying at the airport will make your departure day so much better. I mean, how many times have you woken up at 4am (if you got any sleep at all) to make an early morning flight? It was horrible, right? How about getting a decent nights’ sleep and walking onto your plane feeling fresh and rested? By the way, this is a great option when flying domestically out of Haneda to other parts of Japan.

Check the availability of airport hotels for your specific dates on Booking.com .

9. Eat at restaurant floors

Some of the best restaurants in Japanese cities can be found in restaurant floors (resutoran-gai in Japanese).

You can find restaurant floors in department stores, shopping/entertainment complexes, train stations, and office buildings. In places like Tokyo and Kyoto, some of the best restaurants in town have branches in department store food floors. These restaurants are often way more approachable than their street-level branches. They usually display their specials right out front and English menus are common. So, if you want to choose from a wide variety of Japanese favorites, plus Indian, French and Italian, find the closest restaurant floor and enjoy.

10. Change at Shinagawa Station en route from Kyoto to Narita

This one is a little niche, but if you’re flying home from Narita and want to spend your last night in Kyoto or Osaka, it can save you some time and a lot of energy.

Here’s the deal: The Narita Express platforms in Tokyo Station are a long and confusing way from the shinkansen platforms (let’s say 15 minutes if you don’t get lost). However, at Shinagawa Station (the first stop in Tokyo on the shinkansen from Kyoto etc), the Narita Express platforms are just a couple of minutes’ easy walk from the shinkansen platforms. Just be sure to get reserved seat tickets. Most JR ticket counter workers understand this and they’ll route you through Shinagawa, giving you enough time to make the transfer. If they don’t do it without being asked, just tell them you want to change at Shinagawa.

Make the most of your Japan Rail Pass

A Japan Rail Pass only makes sense for long-distance train trips. So, if you fly into Tokyo and spend the first few days of your trip exploring Tokyo, you want your rail pass to become active the day you leave Tokyo. For local transport, you’ll use a Suica card (see above). You can buy a Japan Rail Pass online at an official partner of JR Rail to collect at any JR Rail station. See Making the Most of a Japan Rail Pass for more tips and tricks.

Use the shower and nap rooms at the airports

Here’s one I’ve used transiting Japan to fly on to Southeast Asia or Australia, and a few times when I just had a really long wait before my flight to the States. All major Japanese airports have shower and nap rooms, usually on both sides of passport control (ie, air side and land side).

Shower/nap rooms are basically tiny hotel rooms with attached shower/bath units. You can tell the staff what time you need to be woken up and they’ll unfailingly wake you at that time, so you can sleep soundly knowing you won’t miss your plane. Entry is by the hour and usually only a few thousand yen for a couple of hours. Let’s face it: You’ll sleep better in one of these nap rooms than in even the most elite airport lounge.

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
• Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport . You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
• If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
• Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help

Kyoto District Map

• Central Kyoto
• Northwest Kyoto
• Northern Higashiyama
• Southern Higashiyama
• Downtown Kyoto
• Kyoto Station Area
• South East Kyoto

Disclosure: InsideKyoto.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

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10 Travel hacks for Tokyo first-timers

“It’s mesmerizing. Intimidating. Disorienting. Upsetting. Poignant. And yes, beautiful.” That’s how Anthony Bourdain described Tokyo and he certainly hit the nail right on the head.

Japan’s capital is one of the world’s top destinations, and for good reason: every corner in this city is full of surprises. Explore the back-alleys of Tsukiji, and you’ll stumble upon a nondescript, family-run sushi diner; in the sleepy district of Yanaka, you’ll discover a decades-old, quaint coffee shop; turn a corner in Asakusa, and chances are, you’ll come across a fantastic ramen shop.

It would be a mistake, though, to think that Tokyo is an easy conquest. Apart from large crowds — the city saw more than 14 million visitors just last year , and that number is expected to reach 20 million come the 2020 Olympic Games — Tokyo is a huge, sprawling city that can confuse and overwhelm, especially first-timers.

And so a few hacks to help you enjoy your first time.

1. Get a mobile wifi

Save yourself the hassle of having to look for a free wifi spot or a few thousand bucks from using expensive data roaming and get yourself a mobile wifi. There are those you can rent for as low as P280 a day, and that’s unli data already.

My husband and I tried Big Sky Nation, and it most certainly helped us find our way around Ueno, allowed us to share our gastronomic experiences on Instagram, even check our emails that one time an urgent work matter popped up.

Pro-tip: Book for one before you fly out, and if that’s been forgotten, there are kiosks at the airport.

2. Maximize navigation apps

A navigation app will save your sanity as you go around Tokyo, especially in its dizzying train system.

Google Maps, with departure and arrival schedules posted in real time, proved very helpful in finding which platform corresponds to which train. Keep two apps ready so you’ll always have backup.

3. Get a pre-paid train card like Suica or Pasmo

Trains remain the most efficient way to go around Tokyo so having a pre-paid train card is certainly convenient. Suica or Pasmo are readily available at train stations as the heavily advertised JR Pass but if you’re only covering Tokyo, skip the last one — that’s a wee bit pricier for conveniences you won’t use anyway.

[photo caption: Train Station.JPG]

Getting around Tokyo (and Japan, in general) is an adventure in itself, thanks to its efficient subway system.

4. Book what you can online beforehand

Places of interest like museums, shrines and temples are reasonably priced. Skip the long lines and book what you can online beforehand. For instance, Tours to Mt. Fuji can be pre-arranged, as a trip to the crowd-pleaser that is the TeamLab Borderless exhibit in Odaiba by buying tickets online.

5. Know when to splurge and when to scrimp

It’s easy to bust your wallet in Tokyo, by prioritizing: are you there to eat? Are you there to shop? Do you prefer hotel breakfasts over the DIY possibilities of an AirBnB? Are your knees strong enough to handle commuting? Or will you need to set aside some budget for cabs?

These are just a few things you may want to consider. Tokyo is huge and has a lot to offer. Know what you want, and know what you need, and allocate budget for it.

6. Look to pop culture for a day’s worth of activities

Sure, there’s Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Akihabara — famous districts that are almost a must when visiting Tokyo for the first time.

But reference a movie, an anime, or a book set in Tokyo to your trip and not only will your visit become a lot more interesting, your first time to Tokyo will become a lot more personal.

So why not look for that corner in Shinjuku with an unorthodox traffic light that was featured in Makoto Shinkai’s anime film Kimi No Na Wa? Or maybe have coffee —or a Tom Collins? — at Dug Jazz Café in Shinjuku mentioned in Haruki Murakami’s Norwegian Wood?

This part of Shinjuku features an unorthodox traffic light, which appeared in the hit animé film Kimi No Na Wa (Your Name) by Makoto Shinkai.

7. Don Quijote is your friend

Souvenir shopping is easy since there are a lot of stores you can buy knickknacks from for as low as P50. If you want a more thoughtful pasalubong, head to Don Quijote, which a number of branches spread across the city. We mean: you can’t go wrong for P250-pack of KitKat goodies.

Japan has loads to offer — ramen, yakitori, sushi, sashimi, tsukemen, katsudon, soba, sukiyaki, okonomiyaki — and across varied price points, too. So don’t get stuck with ramen from a restaurant and sample what you can. Try street-side snacks, late-night kiosks, conbini offerings, and get drinks from the ubiquitous vending machines, too.

A filling and scrumptious meal at a decent restaurant ranges from about P500 to P1,000 per person, while a conbini fare starts at P250 to P300. Street-side snacks, like daifuku (mochi with filling) and grilled octopus, are pocket-friendly options at only about P150 to P300. Drinks from the ubiquitous vending machines start at P50. 

9. When in Japan, do what the Japanese do

Saying “arigato gozaimasu” (thank you very much) goes a long way in Japan. And as with traveling to other countries, it’s also encouraged to observe proper etiquette in Japan.

Bow and smile when meeting new people, cleanse yourself at the temizuya before entering a shrine, lower your voice in public places, and make sure you don’t make a phone call while inside the train.

When paying for your purchase, place those bills or coins on the provided tray at the payment counter; avoid handing your money directly to the cashier. Say “itadakimasu” before eating and “gochis?sama deshita” to express that you’ve enjoyed the wonderful meal you just had. And of course, don’t forget to smile.

Before entering a shrine, do a cleansing ritual at the temizuya. It’s a proper way to show respect no matter your religious affiliation.

At one point in your adventure, you’re bound to miss a turn or get off the wrong station. When you do, don’t stress about it. Tokyo is a safe place to get lost in, so find the nearest coffee shop and consult Google Maps while you nurse a flat white. If you miss your train stop or if you find all those platform numbers confusing, just proceed to the nearest information kiosk. Most of the attendants know basic English, so you can easily ask for directions.  

— LA, GMA News

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• Travel Guide
• Budget Travel

10 Travel Hacks For When You're Visiting Tokyo On A Budget

Have Halal Will Travel  •  Jan 04, 2023

Tokyo is one of the most expensive cities to live in but it doesn’t mean that we can’t eat, sleep, and shop on a budget when we’re there! We've done the research for you so here's how you can scrimp and still enjoy an amazing holiday in Tokyo! 

Follow us on Telegram for the latest updates: https://bit.ly/3LnFN1F

1. Forget about expensive hotels, stay in these instead!

Capsule hotels

First developed in Japan, capsule hotels in Tokyo are a more affordable accommodation option, especially for travellers who are out and about and only need a place to sleep. A room in a capsule hotel will cost you about ¥2,900 to ¥5,800 per night. The cubicles are air-conditioned, and they have facilities such as a sauna and a cafeteria.

Credit: Nadeshiko Hotel Shibuya  on Facebook

However, a capsule hotel may not suit you if you are significantly taller than 1.8 metres because one cubicle measures about 2 metres in length! Some capsule hotels do not accommodate female guests, so it’s better to check before making your reservation. Some of Tokyo's capsule hotels are even Muslimah-friendly, like the women's only Nadeshiko Hotel Shibuya and Akihabara Bay Hotel !

Credit: skas0203 on Flickr

If you haven’t visited Airbnb to hunt for affordable and beautiful accommodation in Tokyo, what are you waiting for? The Tokyo apartments listed on Airbnb are mostly pleasing and have mostly positive reviews from past users. Besides, the Japanese are generally polite people who value good housekeeping, so you would likely meet a pleasant host!

Since June 2018, Japan has imposed a new law that requires Airbnb hosts to register their homes with the government. Only legal Airbnb homeowners in Japan will display a registration number in their listing. If the Airbnb homeowner does not comply with the new law, you might risk having your reservation cancelled.

Credit: Espen Faugstad on Flickr

There are several traditional Japanese guesthouses (Ryokans) in Tokyo and the best thing is that it doesn’t cost much to stay in these traditional Japanese inns. Ryokans can go as low as ¥7,000 per night, depending on the type of room you choose.

#HHWT Tip: Some Ryokans, such as Homeikan in Tokyo , also offer vegetarian or seafood meals and are able to cater to special dietary requests.

2. Strategise your mealtimes

Have a heavy lunch

Lunchtime is literally the time of the day to feast as food is generally cheaper. Stuff yourself with food that will cost almost double during dinner time! Many restaurants in Tokyo also offer reasonably priced set lunches that allow you to eat to your heart’s content.

Not sure where you can dine? From delicious ramen to mouthwatering Japanese curry, check out our ultimate guide to halal authentic Japanese food in Tokyo !

3. Choose halal bento for convenience

Credit: Food Diversity.today 

Since regular meals cost twice as much during dinner, you can get halal bento in selected convenience stores in Japan. With yummy selections ranging from the beef rice bowl to butter chicken curry, you can get them in these 7-11 stores and Rogers Mart across Tokyo .

Credit: Halal Japanese restaurant Kappou Yama 割烹やま～ハラル和食～  on Facebook

If you're tired from exploring the sights and sounds of Tokyo, halal bento deliveries are also available. However, most bento delivery services require a minimum order or number of sets, which will benefit family and group travellers. Whether you're craving for teriyaki chicken or  yakitori, check out these halal bento deliveries that are perfect for your next Tokyo trip !

#HHWT Tip : For added ease, shop around at these Tokyo convenience stores and marts selling Muslim-friendly food !

4. Plan your route and transport

It is important to plan your route so you don’t make unnecessary detours and spend more on transport. On top of that, prepaid travel cards are popular in Tokyo for a ticketless travel experience onboard Tokyo’s transport systems and we recommend that you get a Suica card!

P.S. The train tickets in Tokyo are tiny and if you lose yours, you'll have to purchase another ticket before you can exit at your destination!

Suica and Pasmo cards

IC cards are reloadable transport cards that can be found across Japan with each city or area typically having their own unique card or design. In Tokyo, the 2 main cards are  Suica  and  PASMO . Suica can be purchased at JR railway stations, and PASMO at non-JR railway stations. To get your deposit back at the end of your trip, you’ll also have to return them at these respective stations.

• Can be used across subway, trains, and buses, as well as in convenience stores and some shops or vending machines.
• Nationwide use is available for IC cards, so you can use the Suica and PASMO even if you’re in Osaka or Kyoto! Similarly, IC cards such as the Kansai region’s ICOCA can also be used in Tokyo.
• Prices for subway, train, or bus rides are discounted if you use an IC card (compared to a single-ride ticket).

Credit: Hans Christian Psaar on Flickr

• If you’re planning a commute-heavy day, an IC card may not be worth it as the individual rides will quickly add up.
• If you’re ending your trip outside of Tokyo you won’t be able to get the deposit back BUT you can still use them again for up to 10 years across Japan!

Price for Suica or Pasmo cards : A minimum top-up of ¥1,000 (including ¥500 deposit)

#HHWT Tip:  As IC cards are extremely popular for locals and visitors alike, beat the queue to get your own by  pre-purchasing your Suica card on Klook !

Tokyo Subway Pass

The  Tokyo Subway Pass is one of the most convenient options if you’re only in Tokyo for a short period of time. Average train rides in Tokyo range between ¥200 - ¥400 per ride, so if you’re planning on seeing the major sights, then this pass is definitely worth it! Just make sure to plan out your itinerary first.

• Can be used across all subway lines for a convenient and easy journey - it’ll save you time AND money too as line transfers can sometimes come with a small fee!
• Good for short trips or commute-heavy days so if only 1 day out of your itinerary will require you to commute across the city, we recommend you get the 24-hour pass to save money.
• No need to purchase tickets or top up your card.
• Can be  pre-purchased outside Tokyo on sites such as Klook , or at major spots in Tokyo such as Haneda and Narita airports, and major travel/electronic stores.
• Only valid for up to 72 hours - won’t be effective for any trips 4 days or longer. We recommend combining it with an IC card if you’re in Japan for at least 4 days!
• Can’t be used on the JR railway lines, so you might need to transfer multiple times to reach major stations such as Shibuya or Harajuku. While using the pass means you won’t have to pay extra fees, it might be slightly inconvenient especially if you’re on a tight schedule.

Price for Tokyo Subway Pass : ¥800 (24 hours), ¥1,200 (48 hours), ¥1,500 (72 hours)

JR Pass (Japan Rail Pass)

JR Passes will definitely come up in a discussion of transport around Japan, and fortunately there are several JR passes that include access to Tokyo’s JR lines AND popular destinations around Tokyo! Remember to check out which JR Pass suits your needs on Klook  before purchasing!

• Tokyo’s JR lines cover most major stations and tourist attractions, so it’s totally possible to see Tokyo’s best sights using just the JR line!
• If you’re taking day trips or travelling to/from different prefectures via the shinkansen, a suitable JR pass may be cheaper than buying individual tickets.
• The pass can be quite expensive and you should calculate the amount you save first before deciding to purchase one.
• If you’re only using the JR pass, you won’t be able to use other subway or bus lines so you might have to plan ahead.

Price for JR Pass : Starting from ¥29,650 (7 days)

#HHWT Tip: The JR Pass can only be issued to temporary visitors to Japan and you have to purchase it before travelling to Japan. For more information, check out our ultimate guide to navigating Tokyo's public transport ! 

5. Stay connected with FREE Wi-Fi

Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi a pp

Credit:  Yayoi Japanese Restaurant | ร้านอาหารญี่ปุ่น ยาโยอิ on Facebook

Download the Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi app before you travel to Japan and simply access the app to connect to the Wi-Fi hotspots for free! The areas with these Wi-Fi hotspots include a irports, train stations, commercial facilities, convenience stores and more! You'll be able to find the addresses and maps of all coverage areas with this app. Don't forget  to complete the membership registration form on the app before your trip!

Price : Free (available on iOS and Android )

Travel Japan Wi-Fi app

Exclusively for travellers to Japan, download the Travel Japan Wi-Fi app before your trip to access over 20,000 Wi-Fi hotspots in the country! It covers many areas including airports, train stations, limousine buses, cafes and restaurants, convenience stores and other public areas in Japan.

Rent Pocket Wi-Fi

Travelling with your buddies? Why not rent a pocket 4G WiFi router to share among your travelling party- you can enjoy smoother Internet connection, and the cost of rental per person is cheaper too!

• Book a pocket 4G WiFi router and collect it when you arrive at any Japan airport
• Book a pocket 4G WiFi router and collect it at Changi Airport in Singapore
• Book a pocket 4G WiFi router and collect it at KLIA in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

6. Budget shopping is your best friend

You can't visit Tokyo without shopping! To travel on a budget, you must shop in the right places for great deals. Remember to shop around Harajuku, Shibuya, Asakusa and Ginza where most budget shopping spots are located. Here are a few places that we recommend!

Don Quijote

Credit:  antonio tajuelo  on Flickr

Known as one of Japan's famous discount stores, Don Quijote (also known as Donki) offers almost everything and anything. It carries a wide range of products ranging from basic groceries to electronics, and even clothing and other quirky items. With many things to buy, Donki also sells luggage to store your newly-bought souvenirs.

Credit: Dick Thomas Johnson on Flickr

If you are a footwear lover, you're in luck! ABC Mart is just one of the many places where you can find branded footwear including Adidas, Nike, New Balance, and Timberland sold at discounted prices. You can also get limited-edition footwear exclusive to Japan! 

Shibuya 109

Credit: Tasayu Tasnaphun on Flickr

Shibuya 109 is where you can find trendy clothes at affordable prices! If you're a fan of Japan's renowned clothing chain, Uniqlo, you'll be glad to find a huge store just around the corner as well. The prices of Uniqlo products are cheaper in Japan! Before you step into the store, get a leaflet (known to the locals as 'chirashi') highlighting the daily and weekly deals you shouldn't miss. If you're travelling during winter, purchase your HEATTECH essentials in Japan instead to save!

#HHWT Tip: It's said that Shibuya crossing is one of the busiest intersections in the world so you have to experience the famous Shibuya crossing for yourself! For amazing snapshots, the best vantage points are Starbucks Shibuya Tsutaya and the relatively new Shibuya Scramble Square !

P.S. Want to plan for your next Japan shopping spree? Check out these 12 Brands That Are Cheaper In Japan Than Back Home ! 

7. Get souvenirs from the 100-Yen shops

Tokyo is filled with 100-Yen shops that would please budget shoppers everywhere. You can purchase anything such as quirky stationaries, cosmetic kits, and Japanese-themed souvenirs - all for ¥100! Here are some of the must-visit stores:

Credit: Guilhem Vellut on Flickr

Daiso is already a household name in many countries outside of Japan, but the items are definitely more extensive in its home country! Walk along the aisle to find ceramics, bento boxes and facial masks to place into your shopping basket. The biggest Daiso store is located at Takeshita Dori in Harajuku, which is only a walking distance from Harajuku train station.

Credit: Can Do Japan

Most Can Do stores are scattered around Shinjuku and Shibuya, which is convenient for travellers who love to shop. In this 100-yen shop, you would mostly find traditional Japanese items, kitchen essentials and electronics. Looks like you'll have many souvenir options for your family back home!

Credit: Tatsuo Yamashita on Flickr

If you're looking for more 100-Yen shops, another one would be Seria! While the products are mostly handicrafts, kitchenware and party essentials, you can find souvenir-worthy items on the shelves too. The shop also sells Japanese tea towels and Hello Kitty stationaries.

8. Conquer all the free activities and sights

Being on a budget holiday doesn't mean skipping all the sightseeing! There are so many things to do in Tokyo that won’t cost a cent and here are a few that you can include in your itinerary.

There are a lot of reasons why Asakusa is a must-see. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Nakamise Street, which leads to Senso-ji Temple. Nakamise is lined with street stalls selling traditional goods as well as Muslim-friendly local snacks . It’s a popular spot for worshippers as well as tourists, so brace yourself for crowds, especially on weekends and public holidays.

Also in the area is Asakusa Shrine, home to the Sanja Matsuri (Sanja Festival). If you find yourself in Tokyo at that time, make sure you catch the festivities! Don't forget to check out our Muslim-friendly guide to Tokyo's Asakusa neighbourhood .

Credit: Chuck Morave c on Flickr

Ueno park is a beautiful place to visit, especially when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Take a stroll and admire the scenery or have a picnic if you’re up for a meal with a breathtaking view! What better way to spend your holiday in Tokyo than to experience the city like a local. For a glimpse of this experience, check out our teammate's journey in experiencing cherry blossoms in Japan ! 

Yoyogi Park and Meiji Shrine

Credit: IQRemix on Flickr

Take a stroll amid the beautiful forested Yoyogi Park and don’t forget to visit the famed Meiji Shrine! Weekends are when the atmosphere is livelier, as there will be buskers and Lolita fashionistas around. If you're lucky, you'll be able to catch a glimpse of a Japanese wedding procession at Meiji Shrine too!

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Go up to the observation decks for free at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to get an unobstructed and beautiful view of Tokyo city. The North Observatory opens from 9:30AM to 11:00AM and the South Observatory opens from 9:30PM to 5:30PM, but opens till 11:00PM when the North Observatory is closed . A HHWT reader shared with us that the view here is as good as or even better than the view at Tokyo Skytree, so you have to see it for yourself!

#HHWT Tip : For more sightseeing spots, check out free things to do in Tokyo that won't cost you a single yen !

9. Visit Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea in the evening

Book the After 6 Passport

Credit: Eugene Phoen on Flickr

Spending the afternoon at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea is one of the must-do experiences in Japan, but it doesn't come cheap.

If it's on your bucket list, book the After 6 Passport that allows you to spend your evening at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea at a fraction of the price. At ¥4,200, this pass is only valid on weekdays after 6PM. The best thing about it? There are lesser crowds in the evening! If you can't decide between Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea, we'll help you to choose which theme park you should visit next .

10. Explore the free Insta-worthy spots

Credit: @ilyadesfois  on Twitter

One of the best ways to seal your travel experience is by taking snapshots at free Instagram-worthy spots in Tokyo! It's all about knowing the right places for a good photo. Start with the Jimbocho Book District, a place not to be missed by any bookworm in the world. It houses thousands of books in several bookstores all within a street!

Another place that's famous on the feeds of Instagrammers everywhere is the Kaleidoscope Mirror at Tokyo Plaza Omotesando Harajuku. The escalator leads to a lush terrace filled with trees and greenery for shoppers to relax and unwind. It's a drastic change in atmosphere from a bustling fashion district to a quiet and peaceful hideout. To visit more Instagram spots, check out the striking hidden gems in Tokyo for your next picture-perfect getaway !

Do you have any travel hacks or budget travel tips for travelling in Japan? Let us know in the comments! Time to plan your next Tokyo getaway with your loved ones!

Save to Bucket List

Tokyo on a budget: 7 travel hacks to save on your trip

Whether it’s the long flight, currency exchange, or overall investment, it can cost a lot of money to visit Japan. Its capital and largest city, Tokyo, is no exception. Visiting Tokyo is one of the true bucket list items for curious travelers, but it can be hard to save money while you’re there. Budget travel can be easier in Western Europe or South America, where familiarity can help budget travelers steer clear of unnecessary expenses. 

Tokyo is both massive and mysterious to the uninitiated. Getting around can be difficult, as is finding cheaper food to fuel your adventure. Luckily, planning can help you save money on your Tokyo trip. Finding the right luggage storage option , investing in a Japan rail pass, pondering travel insurance, exploring capsule hotels, finding ways to prepare your own meals, and booking a cheap flight can go a long way in preserving funds. 

Here are our budget travel tips for saving money in Tokyo: 

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Cheap places to stay in Tokyo 

Hotels in Tokyo can be extremely expensive. Being such a massive economic hub, every major hotel chain in the world has a presence in the Japanese capital. While this can translate to a double room paid in full with hotel points for business travelers, it also means that budget travelers need to get creative for finding affordable lodging. Luckily, Tokyo’s inventive culture has created a few options for finding cheaper places to stay that are entirely unique to Japan, like capsule hotels and even gaming (internet) cafés doubling as hostels. 

Capsule hotels 

One of the most curious aspects of Tokyo as a travel destination has to be the prevalence of capsule hotels. These are smaller facilities, which can be booked day-of or even last minute, which require guests to check in and out each morning. It’s an amazing way to save money on lodging, but that might not even be the best feature of staying at a capsule hotel. 

Tokyo is a massive city, geographically and in terms of population. Most travel veterans estimate that you would need well over a week to fully explore the Tokyo metro area and all of its cultural, historical, and culinary offerings. Being limited to the city center or a specific neighborhood makes it difficult to travel around Tokyo. 

Planning an itinerary by staying at multiple capsule hotels based around geographic clusters of landmarks and activities is highly efficient and cost-effective. Luckily, there are dozens of luggage storage facilities around Tokyo which will pair well with the capsule hotel format of having to check in and out each day. For a room at a capsule hotel, customers typically pay between $30 to $50 per night. 

Hostels, though not as popular in Tokyo as they are in Europe, are a viable option for budget travelers. They are generally located near tourist-heavy parts of Tokyo and are a trendy option for students and travelers in their twenties. A single night at a hostel will cost between $60 and $85 for a double room. 

Vacation rentals 

A newer development in Tokyo has been the rise of vacation rentals like Airbnb or Hovelstay . For a private room in an apartment, you can stay the night for as little as $50. For a full apartment, you can expect to pay between $150 and $250 per night. It isn't the cheapest option, but if you’re splitting with another traveler and want to live like a local, it’s a perfect choice. 

Cheap things to do in Tokyo 

While there are incredible tourist attractions and museums in Tokyo, part of the draw for foreign travelers is the distinct culture of Japan. While this can certainly cost quite a bit, it also means there are plenty of fun activities for travelers looking to save money. Here are the best free and cheap things to do in Tokyo:

Take a day trip to Mount Fuji

This destination is so iconic that budget should have nothing to do with planning a visit. Mount Fuji is arguably the most recognizable mountain in the world, and it’s the perfect day trip from Tokyo. While taking the bullet train is a fun part of visiting Mount Fuji, it is prohibitively expensive for budget travelers at about $500 for a round trip. The Shinjuku bus to Kawaguchiko costs about $130 round trip and takes you straight there. Solo travelers will love hiking through Mount Fuji’s tranquil forests and along Lake Kawaguchiko, where for only $20, you can take a boat ride with spectacular views. 

Cherry blossoms at Ueno Park

Outside of Mount Fuji, Japan’s most famous images have to be their glorious cherry blossoms in full bloom. Tokyo has many amazing public parks, but none as beautiful as the expansive Ueno Park, with its acres of trees and a lovely Shinobazu Pond. The tranquility strikes a nice contrast with the bustle of Tokyo’s urban city center. They should be charging you for the seriously impressive Instagram snaps you’ll take at Ueno Park, but fortunately, it’s free. Can’t make it to Tokyo during spring for the blossom? This is still a worthwhile place to visit.

Explore Yoyogi Park and visit the Meiji Jingu shrine 

Japan’s most famous Shinto shrine was built in the late 19th century to commemorate Emperor Meiji, one of the most important historical figures of the time. Shintoism and distant Japanese history will be unfamiliar to most travelers, but the aesthetic and natural beauty of this shrine and the tranquil Yoyogi Park that surrounds it are breathtaking to behold. 

Japanese gardens are some of the most distinct and beautiful in the world, and in the spring, lucky visitors will experience cherry blossoms. All of this is inexpensive and relatively easy to get to. There are inexpensive walking tours that can guide you through the gardens and park, along with a small (and tasteful) gift shop for souvenirs. However, the Instagrams and pictures you’ll take will be the things you cherish most from this visit. 

Cheap places to eat in Tokyo 

Whether it’s preparing your own meals or eating out of a vending machine, there are ways to save money on food when you visit Japan. In fact, one could argue that Japan has one of the best cultures for inexpensive and convenient food in the world. The street food scene is generally based around drinking and nightlife, but there is a huge culture around instant and accessible snacks and meals, all of which are easy on the wallet. 

Many restaurants in Tokyo are known as “izakaya,” which really just means it’s a bar that serves food. Izakaya is designed for social dining and drinking. It's generally very approachable and affordable. There are a wide variety of dishes on offer at Izakaya throughout the city, yakitori (grilled chicken served on toothpick skewers), noodles, edamame, sashimi, and even western imports like pizza are all available. Pair all these quick bites with some beer or a highball for less than $15 per meal, and you have yourself a perfectly serviceable and delicious cheap dinner. 

Corner convenience stores and vending machines

Japanese culture has a special affection for entire meals from vending machines and convenience stores. Dispel any notions you might have of 7-Eleven taquitos or gas station hot dogs in America or Canada because Japanese convenience stores (known as konbini) and even vending machines are serving up truly delicious authentic dishes. You can get both instant and fresh noodles or ramen. Onigiri (rice balls with fillings) are other higher-end vending machine favorites. Steamed buns, yakitori, and even sushi are all delicacies you can expect at any hour of the day because these stores and machines almost all operate 24/7. 

This global culinary sensation has humble origins as an affordable comfort food, so it makes sense that a bowl of broth, noodles, and toppings shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg. Ramen, though generally inexpensive, is revered as a pillar of Japanese cuisine, which is why Michelin-starred ramen restaurants are everywhere in Tokyo. While there are upscale ramen restaurants, your average ramen joint will charge less than $10 for one of these magical bowls of joy. 

If you have access to a local, ask them where their favorite spot is. Otherwise, you should be able to find an accessible and affordable ramen spot on any street, alley, or even at train stations. 

Cheap bars in Tokyo 

Drinking in Tokyo can get pricey, so if you’re trying to save money, and explore this city’s legendary nightlife scene, you’ll need to know a few tips and tricks for making it more affordable. 

Avoid bars with cover charges 

There are corner bars all over Tokyo, these are essentially Japanese dive bars where you can get lighter beer, excellent Japanese whiskey, and traditional sake for a few dollars. These are the best spots for drinking on a budget. 

The worst spots for drinking on a budget are bars and nightclubs where they have cover charges for admission. In the nightlife hotspot known locally as Golden Gai , located near Shinjuku Station , the popular alley bars and nightclubs all charge a fee at the door. If you’re really trying to save money, it’s best to avoid these because the covers really add up.

Bonus budget travel tips for Tokyo 

Whether it’s finding a cheap flight, saving on traveler’s insurance, or knowing how to get around, you can never have too much knowledge for your next trip. 

Public transportation 

Japan, and especially Tokyo, has one of the most advanced, efficient, and effective rail and public transportation networks in the world. If you’re familiar with Japanese culture, this shouldn’t come as a surprise. Because the train system is so extensive, seemingly covering every inch of Tokyo, it’s the most reliable way to get around. Taxis and car share services can be reliable last-minute solutions to transit needs, but you can really get by with train travel. 

Because you’ll be using the train system so much, it’s definitely worthwhile to forgo buying individual tickets for each trip and invest in a Japan Rail Pass, often shortened to JR Pass. Train tickets, while cheaper than a taxi, can add up. A JR Pass will afford travelers discounted tickets and the cheapest fares on everything from the airport to Tokyo Station, to even Tokyo to Kyoto. 

Use your feet

The next best way to get around Tokyo? Simply walking. Once you’re in a certain neighborhood, it’s very easy to walk between landmarks and restaurants or bars. Tokyo’s orderly roads and charming side streets and alleys are extremely enjoyable to walk around. Not only is it a great way to get a sense of local culture and daily life, but it will certainly help work off all the ramen and Sapporo. 

Avoid high season

Everyone knows the cheapest fares for flights and even accommodation are during certain seasons. This is especially true in Europe when Western schools are on break, and each capital is swarmed with college students and traveling families. It’s slightly less exact with Tokyo’s travel patterns, but this principle generally applies. Late fall, winter, and early spring are the best times for airfare and a hotel room. There is a rainy season from the middle of June through most of July, where there’s a slight lull as well. One time you won’t want to miss but might be hard-pressed to afford is cherry blossom season, known locally as sakura. This is an unforgettable travel experience for Japan, but flights get expensive due to travel volume. Visit Tokyo when it suits your budget, but if you can make it work, you should.

If you’re going to visit Japan, you’re going to have to spend some money. Whether it’s just getting to the Land of the Rising Sun from your own country or finding reasonable accommodations for your trip, there’s no getting around expenses. But fortunately, there are ways to reduce the overall cost of the trip. All it takes is a little planning. While it may be one of the most expensive cities in the world, it’s an unbelievable experience, and if you pepper in at least a few exciting free things to do , your budget will thank you. There’s a reason Tokyo is a bucket-list travel destination. 

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16 Must-Known Tokyo Disneyland Tips & Hacks

• Tokyo , Theme Parks

Are you planning a trip to Tokyo Disney and want to make the most out of your experience?

Here’s 15 ultimate Tokyo Disney hacks that will enhance your visit. From planning and crowd management tips to utilizing the FastPass system, exploring unique attractions and entertainment, and discovering hidden gems, these hacks will ensure a fun and unforgettable trip.

So get ready to maximize your time and freedom at Tokyo Disney!

Key Takeaways

• Plan and prioritize attractions to make the most of your time and avoid long lines
• Utilize technology, such as the Tokyo Disney Resort app, to access information, make reservations, and enter lotteries
• Be prepared for the weather and pack essential items like sunscreen and comfortable shoes
• Take breaks, stay hydrated, and utilize resting areas to avoid exhaustion throughout the day

Planning and Crowd Management

Visitors can consult a crowd calendar to choose the best days to visit Tokyo Disney, allowing them to avoid long lines and maximize their time in the parks. By planning their visit strategically, guests can experience all the magic and excitement without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.

Arriving early and staying late is key to beating the rush, as it allows visitors to enjoy popular attractions with shorter wait times. It’s also important to prioritize must-do attractions and create a plan to ensure nothing is missed.

Learning about the FastPass system is a must, as it allows guests to skip the line and make the most of their day. Plus, entering lotteries for popular shows and utilizing single rider lines can help reduce wait times and increase freedom to explore.

With proper planning and crowd management, visitors can make the most of their Tokyo Disney experience.

Arriving Early and Staying Late

Guests should aim to arrive at the park early and stay late in order to make the most of their time and avoid long lines. By arriving early, guests have the opportunity to experience popular attractions with shorter wait times and enjoy the park before it gets crowded. They can start their day with iconic rides, like Pirates of the Caribbean or Space Mountain, without the hassle of long queues.

Staying late allows guests to take advantage of shorter wait times as well, especially for popular nighttime shows and entertainment. They can enjoy the magical atmosphere, watch the spectacular fireworks display, or catch the enchanting parade without feeling rushed.

Prioritizing Must-Do Attractions

Arriving early and staying late at the park allows individuals to prioritize their must-do attractions and make the most out of their time at Tokyo Disney. By being proactive and strategic, guests can ensure they don’t miss out on their favorite experiences.

Here are three key tips to help maximize your time:

• Utilize the FastPass system: This allows you to skip the regular lines for popular attractions, saving you valuable time.
• Plan your day in advance: Research the park map and show schedules to create a plan that includes your must-do attractions. This will help you navigate the park efficiently and make the most of your time.
• Take advantage of early park entry: If you stay at one of the Disney hotels or partner hotels, you can enjoy early access to the park. This means you can get a head start on the crowds and experience more attractions before the park officially opens.

Utilizing the FastPass System

Utilizing the FastPass system allows individuals to skip the regular lines for popular attractions, saving valuable time and ensuring a more efficient visit to Tokyo Disney. With FastPass, visitors have the freedom to experience their favorite rides without the hassle of waiting in long queues.

By simply scanning their park ticket at a FastPass kiosk, guests can receive a designated return time to enjoy a specific attraction with minimal wait. This allows them to explore the rest of the park, enjoy other attractions, or grab a bite to eat while they wait.

FastPass is a game-changer for those who desire freedom and want to make the most out of their time at Tokyo Disney. So don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to maximize your experience and create unforgettable memories.

Entering Lotteries for Popular Shows

Entering the lotteries for popular shows provides visitors with the opportunity to secure their spot and enjoy highly sought-after entertainment options at Tokyo Disney. This is a great way to ensure that you don’t miss out on the incredible performances and experiences that the park has to offer.

By entering the lotteries, you have a chance to win tickets to shows that are often sold out or have long wait times. This means that you can enjoy these shows without having to worry about waiting in line or missing out on the magic.

So make sure to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity and enter the lotteries for popular shows at Tokyo Disney. You won’t regret it!

• Increase your chances of winning by entering the lotteries for multiple shows
• Check the show schedule and plan your day accordingly
• Be prepared to show up early for the show if you win the lottery

Utilizing Single Rider Lines

Guests can take advantage of single rider lines at Tokyo Disney to minimize their wait times for popular attractions. These lines are a fantastic option for those who don’t mind riding alone or don’t mind being separated from their group temporarily.

By utilizing the single rider lines, guests can bypass the regular queues and get on their favorite rides faster. This is especially beneficial for thrill-seekers who are eager to experience the adrenaline-pumping attractions without wasting precious time waiting in line.

Single rider lines offer a great opportunity to maximize your day at Tokyo Disney and fit in as many rides as possible. So, if you’re looking for a way to enjoy the attractions with minimal wait times and maximize your freedom to explore the parks, be sure to take advantage of the single rider lines at Tokyo Disney.

Making Dining Reservations in Advance

When planning a trip to Tokyo Disney, visitors can ensure a seamless dining experience by making their restaurant reservations in advance. By securing their dining reservations ahead of time, guests can avoid long waits and guarantee a spot at their desired dining locations. This allows them to make the most of their time in the park and enjoy their meals without any stress or inconvenience.

Making dining reservations in advance also gives visitors the freedom to plan their day accordingly, knowing that they have a designated time and place to eat. With a wide variety of dining options available at Tokyo Disney, from character-themed cafes to fine dining restaurants, making reservations ensures that There’s some good the culinary delights the park has to offer without any hassle.

Packing Lightly and Essentials

After making dining reservations for your Tokyo Disney adventure, the next step is to pack lightly and bring the essentials. This will ensure that you have everything you need without being weighed down by unnecessary items.

Remember to include essentials like sunscreen and comfortable shoes to protect yourself from the sun and enjoy long walks around the parks. A backpack or tote bag is recommended for easy carrying and to keep your hands free for all the fun activities.

Being prepared for a lot of walking is crucial, so make sure to bring comfortable footwear. By packing lightly and bringing the essentials, you’ll have the freedom to move around easily and fully enjoy all that Tokyo Disney has to offer.

Using a Backpack or Tote Bag

Carrying a backpack or tote bag is a convenient way for visitors to Tokyo Disney to easily transport their belongings while keeping their hands free for all the exciting activities. It allows for freedom of movement and ensures that essential items are always within reach.

Here are some reasons why using a backpack or tote bag is essential for a successful visit to Tokyo Disney:

• Convenience: A backpack or tote bag allows visitors to carry all their essentials, such as sunscreen, water bottles, snacks, and souvenirs, in one place.
• Comfort: With a backpack or tote bag, visitors can distribute the weight evenly across their shoulders, reducing strain and discomfort during long days at the park.
• Accessibility: Having a backpack or tote bag makes it easy to access items quickly, whether it’s grabbing a camera for a photo opportunity or pulling out a poncho during a sudden rain shower.

Being Prepared for a Lot of Walking

Visitors to Tokyo Disney should be prepared for a lot of walking, as the parks cover a large area with numerous attractions to explore. With so much ground to cover, it’s important to wear comfortable shoes and take breaks when needed. To help visitors plan for the walking involved, here is a table highlighting some tips and tricks:

Utilizing Technology With the Tokyo Disney Resort App

The Tokyo Disney Resort app allows guests to conveniently check wait times, show schedules, and park maps, as well as make dining reservations and access FastPasses. With this powerful tool at their fingertips, visitors can enhance their experience and make the most of their time in the parks.

• Stay updated on wait times for popular attractions, ensuring minimal wait and maximum fun.
• Plan your day by checking show schedules and creating a personalized itinerary.
• Use the app to navigate the park with ease, thanks to interactive park maps and real-time updates.

The Tokyo Disney Resort app truly empowers guests, giving them the freedom to explore the parks efficiently and enjoy all the magical experiences they have to offer. So, download the app and embark on a journey filled with excitement, entertainment, and unforgettable memories.

Checking Wait Times, Show Schedules, and Park Maps

Guests can conveniently check wait times, show schedules, and park maps using the Tokyo Disney Resort app, making it easier for them to plan their day and navigate the parks. The app provides real-time updates on ride wait times, allowing guests to prioritize their must-do attractions and make the most of their time. Show schedules can also be accessed, ensuring that guests don’t miss out on any of the spectacular entertainment options. In addition, the app features detailed park maps, helping guests navigate their way through the parks and discover all the hidden gems and attractions. With this valuable tool at their fingertips, guests have the freedom to create a personalized itinerary and make the most out of their visit to Tokyo Disney.

Exploring Unique Attractions and Entertainment

Explorers can delve into the distinctive attractions and entertainment options available at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. These two enchanting theme parks offer a world of adventure and magic for visitors of all ages.

Here are three must-see experiences that will make your trip even more memorable:

• Enjoy the enchanting world of Tokyo Disneyland, where classic Disney characters come to life in captivating shows and parades.
• Embark on a journey like no other at Tokyo DisneySea, a unique park that combines the magic of Disney with the wonders of the sea. Explore breathtaking attractions and indulge in delicious cuisine from around the world.
• Don’t miss the nighttime entertainment, including spectacular fireworks displays and dazzling shows that will leave you in awe.

With so much to see and do, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea offer an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more. So grab your Mickey ears and get ready for an adventure like no other!

Experiencing Nighttime Entertainment

Enjoy the magical atmosphere of Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea by experiencing the captivating nighttime entertainment.

As the sun sets, the parks come alive with a spectacular array of shows, parades, and fireworks displays that are sure to leave you in awe.

Tokyo Disneyland offers the ‘Dreamlights’ parade, where beloved Disney characters dance and sing on beautifully lit floats.

At Tokyo DisneySea, the ‘Fantasmic!’ show combines water, lights, and projections to create a mesmerizing spectacle.

For a truly magical experience, don’t miss the fireworks shows at both parks, which light up the night sky with dazzling colors and synchronized music.

These nighttime performances are the perfect way to end your day at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Discovering Hidden Gems and Details

After experiencing the enchanting nighttime entertainment at Tokyo Disney, it’s time to delve deeper into the parks and uncover hidden gems and details that make the experience even more magical.

Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea are filled with secrets waiting to be discovered, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit. Here are three ways to uncover these hidden gems:

• Take your time: Slow down and explore every nook and cranny of the parks. From intricate decorations to cleverly hidden Mickey Mouse symbols, there are surprises waiting to be found around every corner.
• Interact with the environment: Many attractions have interactive elements that allow you to become part of the story. Look for buttons to press, levers to pull, and doors to open. You never know what surprises await!
• Talk to the cast members: The knowledgeable and friendly cast members are a wealth of information. Strike up a conversation, ask questions, and learn more about the history and stories behind the attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some tips for navigating crowds and maximizing time at tokyo disney.

To navigate crowds and maximize time at Tokyo Disney, arrive early and stay late, prioritize must-do attractions, utilize FastPasses and single rider lines, make dining reservations, and consult the crowd calendar.

How Can I Make the Most of My Fastpasses at Tokyo Disney?

To make the most of FastPasses at Tokyo Disney, arrive early to secure your top choices. Utilize the park app to check availability, reserve FastPasses for popular attractions, and save time by skipping the line.

Are There Any Tips for Finding Unique Attractions and Hidden Gems at Tokyo Disney?

To find unique attractions and hidden gems at Tokyo Disney, explore both Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea. Take time to discover the parks’ hidden details, Enjoy nighttime entertainment, and seek out lesser-known attractions for a truly magical experience.

What Are Some Recommendations for Experiencing the Nighttime Entertainment at Tokyo Disney?

To experience the nighttime entertainment at Tokyo Disney, visitors can enjoy spectacular shows, parades, and fireworks displays. These captivating performances add an extra touch of magic and wonder to the already enchanting atmosphere of the parks.

Are There Any Special Details or Easter Eggs to Look Out for While Exploring Tokyo Disney?

While exploring Tokyo Disney, keep an eye out for special details and easter eggs hidden throughout the parks. From hidden Mickeys to secret messages, these hidden gems add an extra layer of magic to your experience.

To sum it up, these 15 ultimate Tokyo Disney hacks will undoubtedly enhance anyone’s experience at the magical theme park. By following these tips and suggestions, visitors can maximize their time, avoid crowds, and make the most out of their trip.

From planning and crowd management to utilizing technology and exploring unique attractions, these hacks offer a wealth of knowledge and detail to ensure a fun and unforgettable visit.

So pack your bags, grab your Mickey ears, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime at Tokyo Disney!

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15 Essential Travel Hacks When Visiting Japan

A sk anybody what's on their travel bucket list, and their response is sure to include "Japan." Thanks to a combination of rich heritage, lush landscapes, and labyrinth cities packed with skyscrapers, temples, and tourist traps alike, the country has soared in popularity, with American Express claiming that the number of bookings has increased by 1,300% since 2019 (via Bloomberg ).

Part of what makes Japan so alluring is that its culture and customs are so distinct and unique to those of other countries. That's also what makes it an overwhelming travel destination, especially for first-time visitors. If you start your journey in a major city like Tokyo, Yokohama, or Osaka, you're instantly immersed in a world of neon lights, bustling crowds, loud noises, a million different smells, and sensory overload.

With so much to see, do, and eat, a trip to Japan really isn't the kind of vacation you can make up as you go along. The last thing you need is to run into an easily avoided stumbling block like a lack of internet or 30 minutes spent figuring out the route to your next destination — which is why you'll want to arrive armed with as much knowledge as possible.

Read more: 28 Bucket List Destinations That Everyone Needs To Experience At Least Once

Get Quick Meals At 7-Eleven

It's tough to walk for longer than 20 seconds without stumbling upon a convenience store in Japan. Also known as conbini, these stores are usually open 24 hours a day and are packed full of affordable tasty treats that will keep you going without the time (and money) it takes to eat at an actual restaurant.

For as cheap as 200 yen ($1.34), you can enjoy the likes of onigiri rice balls, chicken karaage, sandos, oden, and bento boxes. We also recommend picking up taiyaki for a quick sugar boost. Shaped like fish and made of pancake or waffle batter, they're usually filled with red bean paste, custard, and chocolate and make for an endlessly addictive snack.

The most common store is 7-Eleven, which has over 20,000 locations throughout Japan and is miles above its U.S. counterpart in the culinary department. There are also over 15,000 FamilyMarts scattered across the country, but they typically don't offer as much variety.

Get Pocket Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is surprisingly scarce in Japan, which can put you in some tough spots if you get lost mid-metro commute. Fortunately, pocket Wi-Fi exists -- and it is a lifesaver. For as cheap as $5 a day, you can rent a portable device that will allow you to access the internet on the go, even on the train. The majority will allow you to connect multiple devices at the same time and come in a variety of different speeds and GB, with some even offering unlimited data throughout your stay.  

If you rent in advance through a website like Ninja WiFi or Japan Wireless , you can pick up the device (also known by the much cuter name of a Wi-Fi Egg) at a designated counter once you've got through customs at airports including Haneda and Narita in Tokyo, Chubu Centrair, Kansai International, Fukuoka, and more. Once you're done, you can just pop it into the returns box at the airport on the way back. Easy.

Buy A JR Pass

Sadly, the JR (Japan Rail) Pass isn't as cheap as it once was. It surged in price by 70% in July 2023 as the yen continued to decline in value against other currencies around the world. However, if your itinerary includes extensive train travel, it's still worth the purchase.

The Japan Rail Pass will allow you to ride the rail to your heart's desire -- including the country's infamous, lightning-speed Shinkansen bullet trains (for a supplementary fee) and the Narita Express. It's more expensive to purchase once in Japan, so we recommend buying yours in advance on the JRailPass website where it costs $340.65 for seven days, $544.45 for 14 days, and $680.35 for 21 days.

If your visit is limited to just one or two cities, such as Tokyo and Osaka or Tokyo and Kyoto, then it probably isn't necessary. For example, a trip between Tokyo and Osaka typically costs $120 each way, which is considerably cheaper than forking out a few hundred dollars for a JR Pass.

Download Train Schedules And Maps

Japan has incredible public transportation. It also happens to be extremely overwhelming if it's your first (or second, or third) time in the country. Tokyo's metro can be especially confusing, with nine different train lines and 180 different stations to navigate. Its roads are even more complex with the majority not even having names, baffling even the city's own taxi drivers.

With that in mind, future-proofing for any situation where you may end up lost in an unknown place is always a good idea. Download or screenshot train schedules ahead of time through the JRailPass website, which offers both interactive and PDF versions of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto's transportation systems. You can also download an offline version of the local area on Google Maps. This will also help if you face the aforementioned pesky issue of scarce public Wi-Fi, or if your portable Wi-Fi runs out of juice midday.

Use Citymapper

If you're visiting Tokyo, Citymapper is a must. Just like it does for multiple other cities across the globe, the award-winning app analyzes public transportation, congestion, and distance to figure out all the different ways you can reach your destination, and precisely how many minutes each option will take.

Whether it's walking, cycling, taxis, metro, or a combination of everything, all you need to do is select your chosen route and follow Citymapper's step-by-step instructions. When we say step-by-step, we mean it. The app's so smart that it will even tell you which exits and entrances to use at each station to make your journey as stress-free as possible. If you miss your stop or don't quite make your train, the app will also take that into account to restrategize your trip ASAP. You'll need to be online to request a new route, but if you check your journey ahead of time, you can save it to your homepage for offline use.

Visit Between January And March

There is no one "best" time to visit Japan, but there is a most convenient time. January to March tends to attract less crowds and will also usually bring the cheapest flights of the year. While it'll almost certainly be cold, you'll skip typhoon season and be in with a chance of seeing Japan in the snow.

If you do choose to visit at this time, just be sure to check the dates of the Lunar New Year (AKA Chinese New Year). This tends to be a public holiday across the region and will see cities across Japan packed with tourists. As it's such a popular time to travel, this will also be the exception to the "January to March is cheaper" rule with hotels and airlines driving up their prices over the holiday. The same is true of the end of March, which marks the beginning of cherry blossom season.

Make Advanced Reservations

There's a lot to enjoy in Japan. The problem is that everybody else wants to enjoy these things, too. Tourist attractions often book up months in advance, and a lot of them don't sell tickets at the gate, which doesn't leave much space for spontaneity for the average tourist visiting Japan .

If you plan on visiting the likes of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo - The Making of Harry Potter, Tokyo Disney Resort, Ghibli Park, Shibuya Sky observation deck, Teamlab Planets, or the Studio Ghibli Museum, it's best to sort your tickets sooner rather than later. The Ghibli Museum is especially challenging, with tickets for the next month going on sale at 10 a.m. on the 10th of the month prior.

The same is true of the hotels at Tokyo Disney Resort . With one of the most impressive Disney hotel lineups in the world (including the MiraCosta, a hotel that is actually inside Tokyo DisneySea), rooms are in extremely high demand. These go on sale from 11 a.m. four months before the dates you hope to stay and are bookable through the Tokyo Disney Resort Online Reservations & Tickets website.

Download The Japan Connected-Free Wi-Fi App

If you don't want the responsibility of carrying around and charging pocket Wi-Fi, download the Japan Connected -free Wi-Fi app. Whether you need to double-check directions or just have a quick midday TikTok break, this handy tool will search over 170,000 internet hotspots to find the closest location to you. The majority of these will likely be at a 7-Eleven, where you'll almost always be able to go online.

As if that feature isn't useful enough, the app eliminates the need to fill in the registration forms that typically serve as a barrier before you can access public Wi-Fi. Fill out your name and email once and the app will complete each form on your behalf. While you used to need to be online to find the Internet (which kind of defeats the app's entire purpose), you can now download the offline map to ensure you can always find a connection. Just remember to be careful with what data you enter or share while using any public Wi-Fi network .

Japan has been a "cash is king" country for years, meaning paying with notes and coins is the default over ApplePay and credit cards. This attitude has slipped in recent years, but cash still has a strong grip on the country's residents with only 36% of people preferring cashless payments.

While you should be able to use your card in most major outlets and tourist locations -- such as department stores, malls, theme parks, supermarkets, and even taxis -- a lot of restaurants, cafes, and bars still prefer to be paid in cash. This number will be much higher outside of major cities, and many local restaurants, markets, or temples won't have the facilities to accept card payments even if they want to. Exchanging at least a chunk of your spending money into Japanese yen ahead of time will save you in sticky situations (plus it helps you control your spending, which is always a bonus).

Choose Taxis Over Ubers

Although Uber exists in Japan, it's not as widespread or commonplace as in countries like the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom. Journeys tend to be more expensive than those taken with local cabs, making the latter the service of choice for locals and tourists alike.

The upside to Uber is, of course, the fact that it's so familiar for many tourists. It's easy to order your taxi and pay via card, and the entire process is in English. However, your cheapest option is to hail taxis on the street, as you won't need to pay a base fare for the pick-up service. It'll say on the front of a car in Japanese if it's occupied. It's also color-coded so tourists can understand. Red means it's taken. Green means it's available. If you do want to pre-book, most locals prefer to use the Go app for journeys anywhere within Japan's 47 prefectures. This works similarly to Uber, except it allows you to pay with both cash and card and will give you a flat rate for journeys to and from the airport.

Purchase A Suica Card

The question isn't so much what a Suica card can do ; what can't it do? This prepaid, contactless card can be repeatedly loaded up with more cash to pay for public transport, including the metro, trains, buses, and taxis. Beyond transportation, Suica is also accepted in many shops, restaurants, cafes, and even vending machines. Just look out for the Suica symbol to know if they do -- and if you can't spot it, it's at least worth asking.

You can purchase your card before arriving in Japan and return it at the end of your trip to recover your 500 yen ($12) deposit. Due to a manufacturing shortage, the sale of new Suica cards is temporarily on hold as of June 2023, but if you're on a temporary visa, you can still purchase a Welcome Suica card. This doesn't require a deposit, doesn't need to be returned, and is valid for 28 days. These can only be purchased inside Japan at locations such as Narita and Haneda airports and will come with a reference paper which you'll need to keep on your person at all times.

Utilize Storage Lockers

For security reasons, storage lockers are a rarity at train stations around the world. Japan is an exception. You'd be hard-pressed to find a major station without coin lockers (which, despite the name, can actually be used with a Suica card, too), and in Tokyo, most stations come equipped with storage facilities.

Baggage storage is one of those things you don't realize you'll need until you desperately need it. These lockers are useful if you only have a few hours before heading to your hotel or next destination and want to stow away your belongings so you can freely explore. They also happen to be extremely cheap, typically costing between $1 and $5. There's usually no problem finding a vacant locker, but if you are struggling, you can download the  SPACER app , which will allow you to find and reserve a locker at major stations such as Shinjuku, Osaka, and Shibuya in advance. This is currently only available in Japanese, but there are plans for an English version in the near future.

Avoid National Holidays

Lunar New Year isn't the only holiday worth skipping if you want to avoid the crowds. National holidays bring in huge crowds anywhere, but especially Japan, where workers get little annual leave and want to take advantage of the break. If you do decide to brave big attractions like Shibuya Crossing, Senso-ji Temple, or Tokyo Skytree, you'll likely find yourself shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow tourists.

For a quieter vacation, April 29 to May 6 -- or, Golden Week -- is one of Japan's busiest holiday periods. This tends to be the most hectic season for the likes of Tokyo Disney Resort and Universal Studios Japan, where you can expect to wait in long lines for everything, from the park entrance to the restrooms. While Christmas isn't a national holiday in Japan, it is for many other countries, meaning the festive season can also bring an influx of tourists to both of these locations. Late September (Silver Week), New Year, and the Obon Week in August are typically also very busy.

Claim Your Tax Refund

From clothes to gadgets, Japan is one of the most unique places for retail therapy in the world. If you're a tourist, you can also shop with the peace of mind that you'll get at least some of your money back. Any non-resident visiting Japan for less than six months can enjoy tax-free shopping, meaning you can reclaim 10% of the value of your purchase.

There are a few catches. First, you'll need to check that the store is in fact a "tax-free shop" by checking for a logo stating as such at the entrance. They're extremely common and can be found in the likes of Namba City, Echika Ikebukuro, and Seibu Shibuya. You'll also need to have spent more than 5,000 yen ($33) in the same store on the same day. Some stores will let you pay tax-free from the offset if you present your passport, while others will require you to present your receipt at a tax exemption counter on the same day to get your money back.

Download A Good Translation App

If you know Japanese, you're good to go. For those of us who aren't bilingual, Japan can be tough to navigate at times. While most signs in major cities will have translations, less than 30% of people living in Japan speak English, which means it's inevitable you'll hit the language barrier at some point during your stay.

A good translation app is a must, especially one that's able to translate pictures. Google Translate is always a go-to, but one of the best choices is iTranslate Translator . Not only can it tackle text, but you can also use it to scan and translate menus, signs, labels ... you name it. Best of all, it can work offline if you download the Japanese pack ahead of time. It's free to download but will cost you $5.99 a month to unlock its full potential. Considering how useful it is, it's better to spend $5.99 than find yourself stranded in a restaurant blind-ordering a dish because you can't read the menu.

Read the original article on Explore .

• Tokyo Cheapo (繁體中文)

Train Hack: How to See Tokyo (and Beyond) for 150 Yen

Wondering whether this is clickbait? It’s not. Here, for realsies, we show you how to ride JR trains around (and around and around) Tokyo and neighboring prefectures for the sum total of 150 yen. Yes—you can do some seriously extensive sightseeing for the cost of a can of coffee. And, before you get all jittery, no, it’s not illegal. Known as 大回り乗車 (that’s  oomawari jousha) , this activity is popular among Japanese train fans , and Tokyo train staff are generally onboard with it as long as you respect a few simple rules.

How it works

The concept isn’t complicated. It doesn’t involve wheedling your way through the ticket gate, hurling yourself over said ticket gate, or selling a kidney (or any other organ, for that matter). You simply head over to a JR ticket vending machine in Tokyo, put in 150 yen, scoop up your ticket and you’re good to go. If you have an ICOCA,  Suica or Pasmo card (see pic below), all you need to do is make sure you have at least 133 yen on it—cards get discounted rates. In this article, we focus on JR lines, but you can find a note on other train lines towards the end.

Note: 150 yen is usually the lowest-cost ticket available, but you might need to pay 160 or 170 yen depending on where you start and end. Some cheapos live in obscure places, yo. For information on dedicated, longer-distance JR rail passes, this guide  is useful.

Once you have your card or ticket ready, the Kanto region is your oyster. You can travel on JR lines all day without buying another ticket; you just can’t exit at any of the stations you pass through (though you can get off and wander around a station itself), and you need to end your journey at a different station to your starting point. Just make sure that station is within the 150-yen range from your boarding point.

Why would I do this?

Uh, because it’s fun? The idea is that you get to enjoy scenery all over Tokyo, Chiba, Saitama and further afield, without paying more than the cost of traveling 500m-1km within Tokyo. You can snap pics through the train window without trekking around the countryside. You can also enjoy  ekiben , special lunchboxes made to reflect the famous foods of a particular area (and only sold at stations in that area), as they are often found in little shops on the station-side of the ticket gates. There are  inner-station eateries and convenience stores too, many of which can be found on the platforms.

Rules and restrictions

You can’t exit along the way.

This is the most important rule to keep in mind. If you decide you want to leave a particular station and explore the surrounding sights, you’ll have to pay in before going through the gate. You can, however, change JR lines by going through intermediate gates (cards are preferable to tickets, here) in the station—as long as you don’t leave the station itself.

No commuter passes allowed

If you have a commuter pass, you’ll need to leave that at home and get a 150-yen ticket for your  oomawari adventure.

Day trips only

Your ticket will be valid for one day only, so be sure to get to your end point before the last train stops running that night. The extended operating times of trains on New Year’s Day mean that you might be able to get more mileage out of your ticket; word is that one particularly hardcore rider clocked up 1035km in one go by being strategic like that.

Something about suburban areas only

It seems to be a bit of a grey area in practice, but JR, as far as we can gather, officially limit this  oomawari thing to the suburban areas of big cities, whatever that means. This route map  (in Japanese) shows you what you have access to on paper (travel further afield at your own risk). You’ll see Osaka, Fukuoka, Niigata and Sendai below the Tokyo map—so keep this minimum fare, maximum sightseeing idea in mind when you visit those areas.

You’ve made me nervous—what if I get stuck?

If the ticket gate, for reasons of time-out or who-knows-what beeps and blocks your exit at the end of your journey, just go to the station attendant and tell them that you’ve been doing  oomawari jousha . You can say: “ Oomawari jousha shite kimashita .” It’s a good idea to have your route jotted down or marked on a map, so that you can show them where you’ve been. To be safe, we recommend being super Japanese about it, and planning the route before you embark on your trip. The station attendant will probably smile and let you through, but if there is any hassle, just pay up the fare that he/she requests and go on your way without causing a kerfuffle.

Two sample routes

To get you started, here are two fun routes you can try. They both get you out of the city to see some of the Kanto hinterlands. Start early, and expect to get back pretty late. Take express trains wherever possible. Remember, if you run out of time you’ll need to pay in!

Beginner level: Tokyo to Chiba

At Tokyo Station, get onto the Keiyo Line and nip up to Soga. You’re now in Chiba Prefecture! At this station, get off and transfer to the Uchibo Line for Awa-Kamogawa. When you get there, find the Sotobo Line and ride it to Ooami Station. From there, you’ll be taking the Togane Line to Naruto Station, and then the Sobu Main Line to Kinshicho. Then it’s a hop, skip and a jump on the Sobu Line Rapid to Akihabara , where maids, anime cars and more await.

Stepping it up a notch: Ikebukuro to Gunma (+2 prefectures)

At Ikebukuro Station, take the Saikyo Line to Akabane. There, transfer to the Takasaki Line and head up to Takasaki. Welcome to Gunma Prefecture! When you get there, you’ll be changing to the Ryoumou Line for Oyama. This will take you through Tochigi Prefecture, where you can expect some awesome scenery (think natural, rural vibes). At Oyama, change to the Mito Line and head to Tomobe (now you’re in Ibaraki Prefecture). From there, you’ll be taking the Joban Line to Ueno, and then the Yamanote Line to Otsuka (right next to Ikebukuro). 150 yen well spent.

* Hat tip to this article (in Japanese) for the route suggestions (and exit tips in case of stuckness).

What about other Tokyo train lines?

Oomawari jousha is a known, accepted thing on JR lines, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do it on other train lines. The Japanese websites suggest checking in advance by asking a station attendant or something like that; we, er, officially suggest doing the same. Ahem. Disclaimer and all of that.

Note:  If you’re more into looking at trains than riding them, this Tokyo trainspotting guide will be right up your alley.

Have you tried the 150-yen cheapo Tokyo train trip? Share your experience/route recommendation with us below.

• Cheap train tickets
• Sightseeing

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Boutique Japan

Japan Travel Tips: Expert Advice for an Amazing Trip

Thanks to years of planning Japan trips for our clients (and ourselves ), we’ve amassed a wealth of invaluable experience and essential travel tips.

Whether you’re visiting Japan for the first time, or planning a return visit, these Japan travel tips will help you prepare for your trip and get the most out of your time in the country.

This is a long article, featuring 39 of our best pieces of Japan travel advice. If you have the time and interest, we hope you’ll read all the way through. Or, refer to the table of contents below and skip ahead to the section most relevant to you!

Japan Travel Tips: Table of Contents

Planning your trip to japan, pre-departure: preparing for your visit to japan, you’ve arrived: tips for your time in japan, japanese etiquette tips.

• Eating and Drinking in Japan

We hope our tips help you in planning your Japan adventure!

First things first: if you’re in the early planning stages, this section will help you decide when to visit, where to go, and what to do during your Japan adventure!

1. Decide When to Visit to Japan

Japan is truly a year-round destination. Each season brings its own highlights, from cherry blossoms in spring and festivals in summer, to the stunning foliage of autumn and epic skiing in winter. Any time you visit, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.

The best time of year to visit Japan depends on your preferences for weather and crowds, and which experiences you most desire.

The dramatic differences between seasons require that you plan and pack appropriately for the weather – whether you’re hitting the beaches or the ski slopes! Bear in mind that the temperature can vary significantly depending on which part of the country you visit, so be sure to check the forecast for your specific destinations.

2. Where to Go: Japan’s Best Destinations

Japan has a remarkable number of destinations to choose from and an equally impressive number of things to do in each one.

To get the most out of your trip, we recommend sorting out your itinerary well in advance. Things like accommodation and event tickets often sell out quickly – especially during peak travel seasons – so planning ahead means avoiding disappointment.

If you’re after some inspiration, check out our sample itinerary for two weeks in Japan , and the rest of our unique and immersive sample Japan itineraries .

3. Unique Japanese Experiences

Visiting Japan is an opportunity to enjoy some truly unique and memorable experiences. There are, of course, far too many to fit into a single trip.

You’ll find inspiration in some of our top recommended experiences below. For even more ideas, see our article on 25 Japan experiences to add to your bucket list .

4. Venture Outside the Big Cities

When you think of Japan, the first places you think of are probably the big-name cities of Tokyo , Kyoto , and Osaka . These are amazing places to visit, but by no means everything the country has to offer.

To gain a deeper understanding of Japan, try exploring some of the more off-the-beaten-path destinations – especially if this is not your first trip. Head north to the wilds of Hokkaido, visit the peaceful villages of Shikoku, or explore some of Okinawa’s achingly beautiful islands. Not only will you escape the crowds, but you’ll also get a glimpse of some of the most authentic and memorable parts of Japanese culture.

5. Spend a Night in a Ryokan

A ryokan is a traditional, Japanese-style inn, and we highly recommend staying a night or two in one during your trip. Ryokan are very different from regular hotels, and a quintessential part of the Japanese experience.

The majority are located in the countryside, providing the perfect opportunity to unwind, rejuvenate, and enjoy the very best of Japanese hospitality. Complete with minimalist tatami mat rooms, yukata robes, kaiseki meals, onsen baths, and futon bedding, you’re guaranteed to find it an experience like no other!

To get a more detailed picture, take a virtual tour of a ryokan .

6. Discover True Relaxation at an Onsen

Japanese onsen (hot springs) resorts provide the ultimate in luxury and relaxation. Whether you choose a historic indoor bath or a remote outdoor location surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, they are a sublime, authentic cultural experience that you won’t encounter anywhere else.

We have even more info about the onsen experience in the virtual ryokan tour mentioned above, but here are a few etiquette tips to keep in mind:

• Wash yourself thoroughly before entering the onsen itself, to keep the water sparkly clean.
• Keep towels, toiletries, and clothing (everything but yourself!) out of the water.
• Don’t stay in hot water too long if you’re not used to it – and be careful getting out. The high temperatures can make you feel lightheaded.
• If you’re nervous about being naked in front of other people, consider renting a private onsen instead. Many high-end ryokan provide private baths attached to the rooms, and others offer hourly rentals.

7. Stay in a Buddhist Temple

For even more of an escape from everyday life, a spiritual retreat at a Buddhist temple is just the ticket.

Visitors can get a taste of Buddhist life by staying at a shukubo (temple lodging), where you can take part in early morning prayers, meditation classes, and traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine. Some stays will also give you the option to help out with work around the temple as a form of active meditation.

One of the best places to experience temple life is on the mystical Mount Koya . Home to over 100 Buddhist temples and the otherworldly Okunoin Cemetery, it’s one of the most sacred destinations in Japan and the ideal location to immerse yourself in Zen.

8. Attend a Matsuri (Festival)

Japan’s matsuri (festivals) are nothing short of spectacular. Rich in tradition and bursting with color and energy, they showcase the country at its most dynamic and lively.

Attending a festival during your trip will be an unforgettable experience: a chance to try authentic and seasonal street food, witness unique traditions, and immerse yourself in an important part of Japanese life.

Festivals take place throughout the year all across the country, so regardless of your travel dates and itinerary, you should be able to find at least one to attend. Our list of Japan’s best festivals is a great place to start.

9. Cheer at a Ball Game or Sumo Tournament

To get an insight into a very different side of Japanese culture, consider attending a sporting event such as baseball or sumo – even if you’re not a sports fan.

Sumo tournaments are all-day events steeped in ancient tradition — and they take place just six times a year. If you can’t make it to a tournament, there’s also the option to go to a sumo exhibition or morning practice. All the details you need are in our guide to sumo in Japan .

Baseball is an altogether more modern affair. A Japanese take on an American classic, the games are lively but very friendly, with enthusiastic fans singing and cheering in unison virtually non-stop from beginning to end. Players often have personal fight songs, and each team has unique celebrations involving props such as balloons and mini umbrellas.

Games happen several days a week during the season, and tickets can be purchased online, at the stadium, or from convenience stores.

10. Take a Walk in the Woods

It may come as a bit of a surprise, but Japan is roughly 68% forested and 73% mountainous – making it very easy to escape the noise and lights of the city to spend quality time in nature. So grab your hiking shoes and a bento box lunch, and get out there!

Japanese culture emphasizes harmony with and appreciation for the natural world, and hiking is a popular pastime for people of all ages. In pretty much any city, you’ll find easily accessible and scenic trails to explore. From challenging mountain peaks – including the iconic Fuji-san – to stunning riverside walks, there’s something to suit all abilities and preferences. Plus it’s a great way to burn off the calories from all the delicious food you’ll be eating!

Next up, it’s time to prepare for your trip! Here are a few key things to think about before you leave home, from necessities like passports and currency, to packing advice and more.

11. Check Passports and Visas

A crucial part of any overseas travel!

Your passport should have at least six months’ validity from the end date of your visit, and two to four blank visa pages are recommended.

When it comes to visas, you might not need one – citizens of these countries can enter Japan without a tourist visa, usually for 90 days. Always check with the Japanese Embassy for the most up-to-date information before you travel.

We also recommend getting comprehensive travel insurance for your trip, to plan for the unexpected.

12. Learn Some Key Japanese Phrases 

First of all – don’t panic! It’s entirely possible to travel around Japan without knowing the language. Most Japanese people speak a little bit of English, and you’ll find plenty of English-language signage in big cities and popular tourist locations.

Having said that, learning a few Japanese phrases can significantly enhance your overall travel experience in Japan. It’s a rich and fascinating language, and Japanese people really appreciate tourists making an effort to learn it – even if only the most basic of phrases!

Download the Boutique Japan Tiny Phrasebook to get started with some carefully-selected words and phrases.

13. Decide Whether to Buy a Japan Rail Pass

The Japan Rail Pass is a discounted train pass offered exclusively to tourists. It gives you unlimited travel on most JR trains – including the shinkansen (bullet train) – for periods of 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days.

It sounds like a great deal, and if you’re making multiple long-distance journeys it may save you money on travel. However, depending on your itinerary and preferences, it might not be the best option. Our short guide to the Japan Rail Pass can help you decide.

14. Travel with Plenty of Yen

Despite its hi-tech reputation, Japan is a very cash-oriented society – so bring plenty with you!

Many bars, markets, small shops, and local restaurants only accept payment in cash, particularly in rural areas. You will probably need to carry more hard currency than you’re used to. Luckily, Japan is very safe, so you can feel comfortable doing so.

Ideally, you should purchase yen in your home country, but you can also exchange money in Japan at the airport, and at currency exchanges in any big city. Alternatively, more and more ATMs are starting to accept international cards – especially those in convenience stores. Before you go, get the complete lowdown on cash, cards, and ATMs in Japan .

Don’t forget to let your bank and credit/debit card provider know that you’ll be abroad to help ensure you can use your cards while you’re away. If you’re not sure exactly how much yen to bring, check out our article: Is Japan expensive ?

15. Pack Light

Navigating Japan is much easier when you only have a small, easily portable bag or suitcase to contend with, particularly if you’re visiting a number of different destinations.

Can’t pack light? Skip ahead to the Luggage Forwarding section below .

Most trains have only a small amount of space for luggage, and even on the shinkansen there is no guarantee that you’ll find a space for a massive suitcase. Besides, stations are often crowded, making it awkward to navigate with large bags. You may even find yourself dragging bags up and down stairs if you can’t find an elevator or escalator.

If possible, limit yourself to a backpack and a small rolling suitcase – and remember to save room for souvenirs, because Japan is truly a shopper’s paradise!

16. Remember the Essentials!

We’ve already mentioned passports, yen, and weather-appropriate clothing, but there are a few more essentials you don’t want to forget:

• A small towel and some hand sanitizer: Some public bathrooms in Japan don’t have soap, hand towels, or dryers.
• Travel adaptors: Most of Japan’s electrical outlets are 2-pronged “Type A” (100 Volt, 50-60 Hz), so if your devices have a different style of plug, make sure you bring an appropriate adaptor.
• Small gifts from home: These are wonderful for giving to guides and other people you meet during your travels in Japan. Local specialties are ideal!

Check out our complete guide to packing for Japan for more advice on what to bring and what to leave at home.

17. Rent Pocket Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is not as readily available in Japan as you might expect, so we strongly recommend getting a pocket Wi-Fi device for the duration of your stay. Pocket Wi-Fi is a small, mobile hotspot that allows you to connect to the internet from your laptop, tablet, or smartphone pretty much anywhere in the country.

It’s best to order one well in advance, and either collect it at the airport or have it sent to your first hotel. Most companies will also give you the option to rent a Japanese mobile phone or SIM card for your existing phone (if it’s unlocked), which can save you from paying exorbitant prices if you need to make local calls.

For more information and recommended providers, take a look at our Wi-Fi and Mobile in Japan page.

18. Download Some Useful Apps

If you’re opting for Pocket Wi-Fi, you may as well use it to make your trip go smoothly!

Numerous apps can be helpful during your time in Japan, but here are a few to get you started:

• Google Translate : It won’t always give you perfect translations, but it’s useful when trying to negotiate the language barrier.
• Japanese-English dictionary apps: There are plenty to choose from, including Imiwa? and Japanese . A dictionary app can be useful for looking up individual words quickly.
• Hyperdia : This app (and the associated website) enable you to search Japanese train routes and timetables across the country in English. Combined with specific transportation apps for the cities you’re visiting (like a Tokyo subway app), you’ll have no trouble getting around.
• Google Maps : This is invaluable for navigating your way through Japan’s sometimes labyrinthine streets. The general lack of road names can make finding restaurants and bars by address difficult, whereas Google Maps will lead you straight to the door.

Now that you’re all prepared, here are some things to keep in mind once you arrive in Japan. A mix of travel hacks and insider advice, they’ll help ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible:

19. Get an IC Card

If there’s one thing that will add convenience to your time in Japan, this is it.

IC cards are rechargeable credit-card-sized passes that can be used to pay fares on various public transport networks with a single tap (like London’s Oyster card and New York City’s MetroCard). With one of these, you won’t have to worry about which ticket to buy or how much the fare will be — just tap and go.

Be aware that you will need to purchase paper tickets for the shinkansen and limited express/special express trains. For more information, here’s a dedicated article on train travel in Japan .

What’s great about Japan’s IC cards is that they can be used in other cities, besides the one where you purchased it. For example, Tokyo’s PASMO card can also be used in Kyoto. Plus you can use them to pay for drinks and snacks at most convenience stores and vending machines – it doesn’t get much more convenient!

20. Forward or Store Your Luggage

If you haven’t managed to pack light – or if you’ve purchased many souvenirs – you might find traveling around Japan with a large suitcase a bit awkward.

Luckily, Japan has an answer to your problem: ship your bags separately with the wonderful takuhaibin luggage forwarding service . This overnight service (longer if you’re shipping to airports or far-flung destinations like Okinawa and Hokkaido where ferry travel is involved) will have your bags ready and waiting for you when you arrive. Your hotel or ryokan will be happy to make arrangements for you.

Alternatively, if you only need somewhere to store your bags for a few hours, you can make use of Japan’s numerous coin lockers. Commonly found at train stations and shopping malls, coin lockers are safe, affordable, and convenient places to leave your bags during a day of sightseeing.

21. Take Advantage of Conbini (Convenience Stores)

Japan’s legendary convenience stores – known locally as conbini – make life for travelers and locals really, well, convenient!

In conbini , you can find ATMs to withdraw cash using your overseas credit or debit card, and arrange luggage forwarding if you’re staying somewhere like an AirBnB rather than a hotel. They offer a surprising array of food, drinks, and snacks, including reasonably priced coffee. On top of this, they sell a fantastic range of travel goods and toiletries in case you forget something.

You can also buy tickets for events like baseball games, and attractions such as Universal Studios Japan in conbini . You can even pay for domestic flights and bus tickets, although not always in English.

The best bit – there’s one on pretty much every corner.

22. Take Your Litter Home

For such a clean country, Japan has surprisingly few rubbish bins.

You’ll find them in places like convenience stores and train stations, but there are hardly any on the street. Apart from sometimes next to vending machines or in public areas like parks, you won’t see many places to dispose of trash. You may find yourself holding on to your litter for much longer than you expect – perhaps even until you get back to your hotel.

You can prepare for this by bringing a plastic bag or reusable tote with you to store rubbish while you’re out and about. It’s a small tip, but can make all the difference when you’ve got a handful of litter and nowhere to put it!

Incidentally, more and more Japanese supermarkets are starting to charge a couple of yen for grocery bags, so bringing your own can save you some cash – and the environment.

23. Avoid Crowds by Timing Your Sightseeing Right

It’s no secret that many of Japan’s top sightseeing spots can get pretty crowded. Kyoto , in particular, is known for attracting huge numbers of tourists to its most famous locations, including the stunning Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Kinkaku-ji.

To avoid the worst of the crowds, consider timing your visit to coincide with quieter times of day, namely early morning or late evening. The sights are just as stunning, but you’ll have to share them with far fewer people. Perfect!

Japanese people don’t expect travelers to know all of their customs inside out — don’t sweat it too much. As long as you’re respectful, you’ll be forgiven for making an etiquette mistake or two! However, a little effort goes a long way, so here are some Japanese etiquette pointers .

24. Think Before You Tip

Tipping is pretty much unheard of in Japan, despite the phenomenal level of customer service. In fact, if you try to leave a tip, it will almost definitely be turned down – making for a potentially awkward moment.

If you want to show your appreciation to someone like a private guide or interpreter, one alternative is to bring a small gift from your home country. If you feel strongly about offering a monetary tip, be sure to do so in a manner that matches Japan’s tipping etiquette to avoid causing embarrassment or appearing crass.

25. Take Off Your Shoes

Before entering homes, ryokan , certain temples, traditional restaurants, and any area with tatami matting, you will need to take off your shoes. It’s advisable to wear shoes that slip on and off easily because you’ll be doing this a lot!

Some places provide indoor slippers for you to wear, but this won’t always be the case. For instance, on tatami it’s generally best to wear socks in order to protect the matting. As such, it’s a good idea to wear decent, hole-free socks – or bring a pair with you if you’re not wearing any.

Generally speaking, it will be obvious when you need to remove your shoes: look for indicators like a lower entrance hall, tatami flooring, slippers laid out on the floor, and shoe storage shelves. If in doubt, just ask.

26. Watch Out For Bathroom Slippers

During your travels in Japan, you may notice that certain places, like homes and ryokan, have slippers exclusively for use in the bathroom.

When you enter the bathroom, leave your regular slippers outside the door and switch to the bathroom slippers. These should only be worn in the bathroom, so don’t forget to change back when you leave. This common faux pas might result in you being greeted by (friendly) laughter from the locals!

27. Familiarize Yourself with the Toilet Buttons!

Speaking of bathrooms, Japan is well known for its fancy toilets, which have an array of buttons to control various features. These functions can include small and large flushes, a bidet, a dryer, and an automatic lid opener.

Sometimes the controls are labeled in English as well as Japanese, but more often than not, you’ll be left to decipher the pictures and kanji characters yourself. The icons should be reasonably self-explanatory, but if you’re feeling nervous about it, you can search for a sample image online.

28. Taxi Doors

Japan is famous for technology and efficiency, so it should come as no surprise that taxi doors open automatically.

When you hail a taxi, the driver will pull up, and the rear door will automatically open for you to get in. Once inside, it will close again automatically behind you.

It’s just a tiny thing to be aware of, but one that might save you a bit of a surprise!

29. To Bow or Not to Bow

Bowing is one of the most commonly seen Japanese customs, and it’s used in a wide variety of situations, including greeting people, thanking someone, and apologizing. As a general rule of thumb, the deeper the bow, the more respectful it is.

Don’t worry if you feel uncomfortable at first. Most Japanese people know that bowing is uncommon in the west, and they won’t be scrutinizing your efforts! If you’d prefer to shake hands instead, that will most likely be fine too.

30. Smoking in Japan

If you’re a smoker, you’ll probably find that Japan is more lenient than your home country when it comes to cigarettes. Many traditional restaurants and bars still permit smoking inside. Train stations and other public areas often have an indoor smoking room where you can go to light up. Be careful on the street though, as smoking is usually not permitted on busy sidewalks – instead, you’ll need to look for a designated smoking area.

If you’re a non-smoker, you may well find the situation in Japan a little frustrating. However, an increasing number of bars and restaurants are thankfully choosing to make their premises smoke-free. A quick check of their website or signs in the window should help you find non-smoking establishments.

31. Cover Your Tattoos

In Japan, there is still an association between tattoos and organized crime. As a foreigner, you’re unlikely to be mistaken for a member of the yakuza. However, you might need to cover up your tattoos if you want to use public facilities such as gyms, swimming pools, and onsen (hot spring baths).

If your tattoos are too big or awkward to cover, don’t worry. You can always use a private onsen or search online for a tattoo-friendly one. These are becoming more common nowadays, particularly among establishments looking to cater to overseas visitors.

32. Be Respectful on Public Transport

Japanese society is known for its emphasis on politeness, and one of the places this is most apparent is the train network. Conductors bow to you, carriages are spotlessly clean, and departures are so punctual you can set your watch by them.

Keep these simple pointers in mind, and you’ll fit right in:

• Don’t talk on your phone on public transport. If you need to make or answer a call on the train, you can do so in the small compartments between carriages.
• Queue in the designated areas. On the train platform, you will usually see painted lines, numbers, and symbols on the ground indicating where to wait. And of course, let people off the train before trying to board.
• Enjoy it! Take photos out the window, recline your seat on the shinkansen , grab a delicious bento box lunch from the station or beverage cart. Trains are a great place to relax as you glide seamlessly to your next destination.

33. Use the Money Tray

In Japan, money is rarely passed directly from hand to hand.

When you’re purchasing something in a shop, restaurant, or bar, you’ll often notice a small tray next to the cash register. It might be on the counter or attached to the cash register itself. You should place your money or credit/debit card in the tray, instead of handing it to the cashier.

The cashier will usually place your change in the money tray after completing the transaction. The same system operates when paying for services in places like hotels, cinemas, and onsen.

Another common practice for exchanging money is to place cash in an envelope, rather than passing it openly, and using both hands to pass it.

Japan Travel Tips: Eating and drinking

Japan really is a foodie’s paradise. From Michelin-standard delights to authentic local cuisine, it more than deserves its reputation as a top culinary mecca. Here are some tips to ensure you make the most of Japan’s edible delights during your trip:

34. Try All the Food!

This may seem like a bit of an obvious point, but it’s still one travel tip worth making.

For a truly high-end experience, you’ll want to splurge on a multi-course, seasonal kaiseki meal – or the vegan/vegetarian version known as shojin ryori . To sample an eclectic variety of Japanese food in one place, head to an izakaya . These casual Japanese-style gastropubs are a must-visit, and one of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in local culture.

From well-known classics such as sushi and ramen to lesser-known but no less delicious dishes like soba and karaage there is a wealth of mouthwatering Japanese foods to try .

On top of this, there are countless local specialties to enjoy as you visit different cities. So if your itinerary includes several destinations, be sure to investigate! To get you started, check out our recommendations for must-eat foods in Kyoto , foods in Osaka , and foods in Fukuoka .

35. Brush Up on Your Chopstick Etiquette

Even if you consider yourself an expert with chopsticks, you might not be aware of some etiquette to keep in mind while using them:

A must for all the food you’re going to be trying!

• Never point your chopsticks at another person, wave them in the air, or spear food with them.
• Don’t stick your chopsticks into a bowl of rice, or pass food from chopsticks to chopsticks, as this is reminiscent of funeral rites.
• When serving yourself from a communal dish, use the opposite end of your chopsticks (not the end you put in your mouth) to serve yourself.

If you can’t use chopsticks don’t worry – you can always ask for a knife and fork.

36. Plan Ahead if You Have Dietary Requirements

Contrary to popular belief, traveling through Japan with special dietary requirements is definitely possible – if you plan ahead.

It is, unfortunately, true that dietary restrictions are not as well understood in Japan as in some other countries, and they cannot always be accommodated. However, following this advice will make your life much easier:

• To prevent misunderstandings, convey what you can and can’t eat specifically (rather than just stating that you are vegan or gluten-free, for example).
• Give plenty of advance notice when asking a restaurant or ryokan to alter their menu, as it will take time and preparation.
• ‘I’m allergic to ___.’
• ‘I can’t eat ___.’
• ‘Does this contain ___?’
• Research, research, research! The internet is a goldmine of information and advice for travelers with dietary requirements in Japan . There is an ever-increasing number of websites about being vegan/vegetarian/gluten-free/etc. in Japan, which can be absolute life-savers.

37. Go Sake Tasting

No list of Japan travel tips would be complete without a little sake!

If you’re not an expert, the best way to gain an appreciation for sake is quite simply to drink it. If you’re unsure of where to start, try a sake tasting experience or go on a brewery tour for a crash course. Another option is to ask the bar or restaurant staff for their recommendations.

One thing to bear in mind is that in Japanese, the word ‘sake’ refers to all alcoholic drinks in general. Use the word ‘nihonshu’ when you order, and you’re sure to impress! If you’re drinking with a group, always fill up other people’s glasses, not your own – and they’ll do the same for you.

For a longer primer on Japan’s national tipple, take a look at our Sake 101 guide. For something a little different, consider branching out into shochu .

Incidentally, while Japan might be best known for sake, it also has an internationally-acclaimed whisky industry . There are several Japanese whisky distilleries across the country that you can visit for a glimpse behind the scenes and a tasting, as well as a plethora of specialty whisky bars.

38. Attend a Tea Ceremony

Japan is home to one of the world’s most venerable tea cultures, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the traditional tea ceremony.

Participating in tea ceremonies is a wonderfully Japanese experience. Conducted using matcha – a high-quality, finely ground powder made from shade-grown green tea plants – it is not simply a way to learn more about preparing and serving tea. The ceremony is also a chance to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy authentic Japanese hospitality.

You won’t be expected to know the etiquette of the tea ceremony – after all, that’s part of what you’re there to learn! Just remember to wear nice socks and comfortable clothes, as you’ll likely be in a tatami room and therefore have to remove your shoes and sit on the floor.

39. Don’t Restrict Yourself to Just Matcha!

Matcha might be the most famous, but it’s certainly not the only tea in Japan that you can explore.

If you’re a tea lover, be sure to take the opportunity to try all the varieties of tea on offer. From grassy sencha and top quality gyokuro , to roasted hojicha and brown rice-laden genmaicha , Japan has a tea for every taste and occasion. Besides tea ceremonies, you can visit tea houses for tastings, and even tea plantations for tours.

Tea leaves also make an ideal souvenir, enabling you to bring a taste of Japan back home with you.

Not a fan of tea? Japan also has a booming specialty coffee scene , so be sure to check it out if a cup of joe is more your style.

Looking for More Authentic Japanese Experiences?

Hopefully, these Japan travel tips have helped you in planning and preparing for your trip.

Whether you usually plan your own trips, or normally work with a destination expert, planning a trip to Japan can seem overwhelming at times.

At Boutique Japan, our specialty is crafting completely customized trips for travelers seeking unique, authentic experiences.

If you are interested in learning more about working with us, please feel free to explore our trip planning process .

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Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea: Tips & Hacks for First Timers

One look at the Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea map will show just how much is going on at any given time. Rides, special events, shows, parades, limited time food and merchandise…it’s enough to make your head spin! So, to take some of the confusion out of your visit, here are some of the best hacks for visiting Tokyo Disney Resort.  

Before arriving at Tokyo Disney Resort 

Plan your visit in the low season.

This isn’t always an option for those travelling to Japan, but there are some websites that track the historical wait times at Tokyo Disney Resort, and predict wait times up to 6 months in advance. 

Essentially, Tuesdays to Thursdays are the quietest days to visit. On the other hand, school and National holidays will mean bigger crowds. Historically busy times include February, March, August as well as ‘Golden Week’ in May and the week surrounding Christmas and New Year. 

Consider where you will stay

I put this high on the list because although it’s easy to get to Tokyo Disney Resort from central Tokyo, Disney Resort hotel guests can get guaranteed park entry as well as 15 minutes early access to the park (among other benefits). Check the official website for details.  

Pre-purchase your tickets

This is a massive timesaver and, in my opinion, non-negotiable. By pre-purchasing your tickets, you can waltz right into the park at 8:00am, past the winding queues of people still waiting to buy a ticket. This gives you the advantage of getting the earliest FastPasses to your desired rides. 

You can purchase tickets online from the Tokyo Disney website and then print out the e-tickets at a convenience store. Alternatively, you could buy them from a Disney Store in Tokyo. Read more about the Shibuya Disney Store (and other supporting stores) in this article .

Download the app

Not surprisingly, there is an official Tokyo Disney Resort app that you can use to get around and check wait times. It’s multi-functioned and most useful is the map, ability to book FastPasses and check wait times. The latest version now supports English but unfortunately it’s still only available from the Japanese app store (as of June 2020). It is possible to get, but fiddly, so if you can’t access it, you’ll have to rely on paper maps and tickets.  

Bring Wi-fi and chargers!

First-time visitors to Japan may be surprised to find out that free public wi-fi isn’t that widely available. For those taking public transport and exploring away from shops and stations, it’s handy to have backup. We recommend that all visitors consider pre-ordering a pocket wi-fi or travel sim card, or picking one up from the airport on arrival. 

Inside Tokyo Disney Resort, free wi-fi is only available in some areas, so it’s handy to have your own—particularly in those long queues! Also handy to have a backup battery charger if you’re going to be on your phone a lot. 

Arrive early

What’s the point in pre-purchasing a ticket if you don’t show up early to get ahead? DisneySea opens at 8:00am, and Disneyland at 8:30am, so I’d recommend arriving just before then.  

When it comes to food…

There is so much food on offer inside the park, from snacks to cafeteria style, to sit down restaurants . However, it’s also possible to bring your own if you plan ahead.  

Bring your own food 

If you’re looking to save a few yen, you can pick up last minute breakfast or snacks at the convenience store inside Maihama Station. There are lockers inside the park so that you don’t have to carry everything around with you all day. 

You will need to observe the designated picnic areas (check the map) and please note that you cannot bring your own alcohol, or drinks in cans or glass bottles into the park. Disneyland has no alcohol available, while DisneySea serves alcohol in the restaurants. There are water fountains available if you would like to bring a refillable water bottle.

Book a restaurant

For those who would like a sit down meal with table service, there are a number of restaurants offering this at both Disneyland and DisneySea. The only catch is that some of these are quite popular so it’s important to reserve in advance.

Check out the “priority seating” dining options ahead of your visit and try to make a reservation via the offical website .

If you cannot make a reservation in advance, you can try to make a same-day reservation over the phone or online from 9:00am, or by physically going to the restaurant at 10:00am. Alternatively, just show up and queue whenever you are hungry—but it’s probably a good idea to eat your meals off-peak (an early 11:00am lunch or a mid-afternoon meal) to avoid the crowds.

If you forget to research and book, don’t stress—there are many, many food options all over the park.

Tips for Inside The Park 

For those interested in checking out rides, I’d recommend getting familiar with the concept of FastPasses. Wait times for popular rides can sometimes be multiple hours—which is time you could use to explore! So, some of these rides will allow you to reserve a spot in line, called a “FastPass”, which are available free of charge on the app or from a kiosk at the entrance to the ride.   

To keep things fair, each ride only has a few time slots available for FastPass users. For example, one ride may have 11:00am-12:00pm, 14:30-15:30 and 18:45-19:45 time slots. Once a time slot fills up with reservations, bookings are then opened for the next time slot. If you are too late to reserve the earlier time slots, you’ll have to ride in the afternoon or evening. Sometimes these early time slots can be gone within the first hour of the park opening, so get your FastPasses quickly. Once FastPasses run out for a ride, you just have to queue in the regular line. 

How to get a FastPass

To get one, head to the attraction and find the FastPass kiosks. Scan your park ticket, select the time you will come back and get a paper print out (FastPass) to keep with you. This will state the time you should come back, so set an alarm on your phone as a reminder. The time slot is a 1 hour window, so you can come at any time in that hour and join the shorter FastPass queue. You will just need to scan your FastPass ticket to gain entry. 

The FastPass ticket will also let you know when you can book your next FastPass for another ride, as you are blocked from getting another FastPass for 90 minutes.  

If using the app, find the ride, select the FP logo and scan your park ticket QR code. It will be added to your schedule. So simple! 

Most Popular Rides/Longest Waits

It’s a good idea to try to get FastPasses for the most popular attractions in the park as soon as possible. If you wait too long, you’ll have no choice but to join the 2 hour queue or skip it altogether. 

Popular rides at Tokyo Disneyland: 

• Pooh’s Hunny Hunt †◊
• Monsters Inc. Ride & Go Seek! †◊
• Big Thunder Mountain
• Space Mountain
• Splash Mountain *
• Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters ◊

Popular rides at Tokyo DisneySea:

• Toy Story Mania! 
• Nemo & Friends SeaRider † 
• Journey to the Center of the Earth †
• Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull* 
• Raging Spirits *† 
• Tower of Terror † (story is unique) 
• Mermaid Lagoon Theatre (King Triton’s Concert)
• Turtle Talk (Japanese audio only)
• Venetian Gondolas 

† unique to Tokyo Disney  ◊ attraction closes early * ride as a ‘single rider’ instead of using a FastPass!  

Single Riders

Another great Tokyo Disney hack is knowing that some rides allow solo riders to jump the queue. If you don’t mind filling a gap and riding with a small group, you can experience a ride much quicker! Enter via the FastPass queue and say “single rider” to the staff, at: 

Disneyland: Splash Mountain

DisneySea: ‘Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull’ and ‘Raging Spirits’.

Show Lottery 

It’s not all about the rides at Disney; there are plenty of great shows, too! Though they will be in Japanese, they’re still worth a look! To see a show, you will likely need to queue. Unfortunately there are no FastPasses, but you can try to win tickets in a lottery. 

This is another great Tokyo Disney hack that can really speed up your day. Popular shows include ‘Let’s Party Gras’ in Tokyo Disneyland, as well as ‘Big Band Beat’ and ‘Hello, New York!’ in DisneySea. You can apply for tickets as soon as the gates open, up to 45 minutes prior to showtime. If successful, you will receive printed tickets, and should return to see the show at the time specified on the ticket.  

The lottery machines can be found here: 

Tokyo Disneyland : the “Tomorrowland Hall”, to the left of Space Mountain, in Tomorrowland. 

Tokyo DisneySea: inside “Biglietteria”, near Gondolier Snacks in Mediterranean Harbor. 

Note: your group is only able to attempt a lottery once per day for each show at each park.  

Plan your day as best as you can 

These parks are smaller than other Disney Parks around the world, but it can still be tiring to walk around all day. Try to cluster your attractions around your FastPass rides so you minimise walking back and forth too much. 

The most important Tokyo Disney hack goes without saying! There is so much to see and do in the parks, so don’t worry if you miss a ride or a show. There is another great activity waiting in its wake. 

Hopefully the above tips can help to take some of the confusion and mystery out of a trip to Tokyo Disney Resort, allow you to be more in the moment and have fun! 

Need more info? 

If these Tokyo Disney hacks have inspired you to plan out your day, the official Disney website has a “ first time visitor guide ” itinerary for some of the most popular attractions.

Read more information about Disneyland here and DisneySea here .  

Post by Japan Journeys . 

Japan Rail Pass Prices Have Increased By 70%! Here Are 7 Must-Know Travel Hacks To Save Money in Japan

It’s no secret that Singaporeans love visiting Japan . And as most Japan aficionados would know, the unlimited travel Japan Rail (JR) Pass is a cost effective way to get around Japan if you plan to visit different parts of the country.

But on 1 Oct 2023, we saw a whopping ~70% increase in the JR Pass price . After this crazy big price hike, is the JR Pass still worth purchasing? Maybe not…but we know Singaporeans. Our love for the land of the rising sun is not going to be diminished with the rising JR Pass prices. No—we’re headed to Japan regardless, and just need to find other ways to save money there instead.

Let’s take a look at what the JR Pass increase means for you, how to decide if it’ll still be worth getting, and 5 other must-know travel hacks to save money while travelling in Japan.

• The JR Pass is (for now) the most cost effective way to travel around Japan.
• The price of the JR Pass will increase by 68-77% from 1 Oct 2023.
• Is the JR Pass still worth it after the price increase?
• Japan travel hack #1: Take the bus
• Japan travel hack #2: Take domestic flights
• Japan travel hack #3: Take a night bus to save on accommodation costs
• Japan travel hack #4: Buy a regional JR Pass
• Japan travel hack #5: Visit free attractions
• Japan travel hack #6: Shop at a 100 Yen shop
• Japan travel hack #7: Buy food and drinks from vending machines

1. The JR Pass is (was?) the most cost effective way to travel around Japan.

The idea behind the JR Pass is simple: Pay a flat fee, and get to take unlimited train rides around the whole of Japan. If you’re going to be travelling to several parts of the country, the JR Pass is definitely more cost effective than buying rail tickets a la carte. Only available to tourists, the pass is ideal for travellers who want to see different parts of Japan during their trip. Travellers also have the option of a 7-day, 14-day, or 21-day pass, so it’s fairly flexible. 

Sounds perfect for the avid adventurer in Japan? It is—or should we say, it was .

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2. The price of the JR Pass increased by 68-77% from 1 Oct 2023.

Yikes! The new JR Pass prices came into effect from 1 Oct 2023 onwards. Here are the price changes for adult JR Pass tickets for Ordinary Cars (the standard) and Green Cars (more premium):

The pass type worst hit by the price hike is the premium 7-day pass for a Green Car, which will now cost you ¥70,000 (S$681) instead of ¥39,600 (S$385). Its standard pass counterpart will set you back by ¥50,000 (S$486), up from ¥29,650 (S$288). 

3. Is the JR Pass still worth it after the price increase?

We’ve done the math. If you do a 7-day trip in Japan and travel from Tokyo to Nagoya, Nagoya to Osaka, and Osaka to Fukuoka, you can expect to pay about ¥33,400 to ¥34,840 for your a la carte ticket prices:

At the old JR Pass rates, the JR Pass was slightly more cost effective than buying rail tickets individually—by about ¥3,750 (S$36) to ¥5,190 (S$50).

But now that the ¥29,650 pass has swelled to become a ¥50,000 one, it doesn’t look like the full JR Pass will be worth it. It’s only going to save you money if you add more stops (and thus spend fewer days at each stop) or travel further distances (and thus spend more time travelling on a train). To see if your itinerary is worth getting the JR Pass for, we recommend you use this free JR Pass calculator . Add the points of interest you want to visit, then scroll down to see how the cost of these a la carte tickets will compare to the cost of a JR Pass. You can also use any of the many free online rail ticket calculators online and compare them against the new JR Pass prices.

Here’s the bottom line: now that the JR Pass price has increased to ¥50,000, it’s quite likely that it isn’t worth getting for the average Japan traveller. The good news? There are other ways to save money while travelling in Japan.

4. Japan travel hack #1: Take the bus

If you have time but are short on money, consider taking a bus around Japan instead of the rail. Yes, bus rides are bound to take longer, but that’s fair since you get to take them at a lower cost. They’re also not heinously long; for example, the journey from Tokyo to Nagoya will take you about 6 hours by bus. That’s not too long to spend on a bus, albeit longer than the 1 hour 40 minutes you’d need to travel by bullet train.

Here’s a comparison of how much it’ll cost you via bus vs train for a 7-day trip going from Tokyo to Nagoya, Nagoya to Osaka, and Osaka to Fukuoka. 

Taking the bus instead of the train could save you up to ¥25,020, which comes up to about S$243 over 7 days. So if you can, extend the length of your trip to budget for more travel time, while freeing up your actual budget. Spend the cash you save on the freshest sushi, historical and cultural attractions, and cute Japanese souvenirs instead.

Of course, if time is money to you, the rail might be a better choice. Use tools such as Japan Transit Planner to estimate journey times and prices on trains and buses, and ultimately decide which option is the most value for money for you.

5. Japan travel hack #2: Take domestic flights

You might be wondering, could I snag good deals for cheap domestic flights that beat or are comparable to the cost of travelling by train? Possibly, but only for certain routes. When we tried to check for flights from Tokyo to Nagoya, Nagoya to Osaka, and Osaka to Fukuoka, we got stuck on the middle leg of the journey. There were very few available flights, and those that were available either took 6 times as long as the journey by train, or cost up to 3 times the price.

Having said that, we spotted some really good domestic flight deals for the first and last leg of the journey. In combination with taking the train on the middle leg, the total cost came up to just S$288. Not only is this cheaper than the S$324 to S$338 you’d pay for the journey 100% by train, but it’s also going to be faster taking a plane.

6. Japan travel hack #3: Take a night bus to save on accommodation costs

We already know buses are cheaper than trains. But let’s take our cost saving one step further—to save on both transport and accommodation at the same time, take an overnight train. These bus journeys are usually 6 to 8 hours long, and are timed such that you’ll board the bus at night and reach your destination by the next morning.

Generally, night buses will cost more on Fridays and the weekend, while the cheapest rates are on the other weekdays from Monday to Thursday. Let’s assume you’re taking the bus on a Monday. Here’s what your journey cost and timings will look like on Willer Express:

When it comes to the most affordable mode of transportation, night buses are the clear winner. Our 7-day itinerary from Tokyo to Fukuoka will cost only about ¥10,200 (S$99), compared to up to ¥34,840 (S$338) on rail and up to ¥15,000 (S$145) for a regular daytime bus. That’s between $46 to S$239 worth of savings on top of the amount you save from not needing to book accommodations for the night. 

7. Japan travel hack #4: Buy a regional JR Pass

Visiting spots within a particular area of Japan, but not travelling across the whole country? Wish there was some kinda half or partial JR Pass? You’re in luck, because the regional JR Passes are exactly that!

Like the full JR Pass, these regional versions offer unlimited rides via train for a fixed number of days. The main difference is that these regional JR Passes apply to specific areas of Japan only, and are of course also more affordable than the full JR Pass. Best part is, unlike the JR Pass, they’re not increasing in price this year (touch wood!). That’s going to make the difference in their prices even more stark.

There are many regional JR Passes, and we’ve covered them more extensively in our complete JR Pass review . But briefly, here are some popular passes that may appeal to you:

ALSO READ : 20 Free Things To Do in Tokyo (Explore Japan On A Budget!)

8. Japan travel hack #5: Visit free attractions

In Singapore, the best spots will cost tourists a pretty penny to visit. For example, an entrance ticket to the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay is priced at $53, while the full Singapore Flyer + Time Capsule experience will set a visitor back by $40. Visiting just 2 attractions a day will set one back by almost $100. 

But for tourists visiting Japan, you’ll be glad to know that there are a good number of attractions that are completely free to visit. You’ll still need to pay bus/rail fees to get there, but once you do, you can just waltz right in to these places without paying a single yen:

• National parks : Did you know that all 34 of Japan’s national parks are free to visit? You also don’t need a permit to visit or stay, and there are no opening or closing hours to speak of.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Laura Kell (@lauraandreakell)

• Hot springs a.k.a onsens : In Japan, there are both public and private hot springs. The public ones are free, but are, well, public. So stand tall and don’t be afraid to show what your mama gave you! Okay in all seriousness though, if that doesn’t sound like something you can do, pay for a private onsen experience instead. If you have tattoos, you should check ahead if the onsen is skin art friendly—some areas are more conservative, and tattoos are frowned upon. Psst , don’t know where to start? Our colleague recommends the onsen town Kusatsu Onsen !
• Shrines : Many shrines in Japan are free to visit, with the exception of some really touristy ones. For a start, check out the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine in Kyoto and the Meiji Jingu Shrine in Shibuya.
• Temples : Like the shrines, there are a good number of temples in Japan that don’t charge an entrance fee. One example is Tokyo’s oldest temple—the well-known, colourful Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa.

9. Japan travel hack #6: Shop at a 100 Yen shop

Remember the days when everything in Singapore’s Daiso shops cost $2 flat? Those everything-at-2-bucks-days are now a thing of the past. Now, each product from Daiso will cost you something between an awkward $2.14 to an equally awkward S$25.47.

In Japan, Daiso is just one of many 100 yen shop options that remain true to their affordable dollar-store concept. Take your pick from Daiso, Seria, Watts, and Can Do, which altogether have over 5,500 locations across the country. Some of these are multi-storey, department store style behemoths! You can expect to find tableware, kitchenware, tools, gardening items, stationery, and just random fun things you never knew you needed. I’m sure you know what it’s like to get lost in a Daiso-esque wonderland.

ALSO READ : What to Buy in Japan: Tokyo Banana, Shiroi Koibito Cookies & More Japanese Snack Prices

10. Japan travel hack #7: Buy food and drinks from vending machines

It might be tempting to visit a boutique cafe in Japan and fork out between ¥800 (S$7.80) and ¥1,000 (S$9.70) for your coffee fix for the vibes. But if once is enough for you, there’s a cheaper way to fill up on your daily caffeine quota the rest of the days you spend in Japan—visit a vending machine.

There are tons of coffee vending machines that you can find practically everywhere in Japan. It’s said that there is 1 vending machine for every 23 residents, and Japan has the highest density of vending machines in the world. These machines dispense both hot and cold drink options for both coffee and tea, and at a fraction of the price you’d pay at a larger coffee chain or cafe. Expect to pay only ¥100 to ¥200 for your cuppa, which is just S$1 or S$2!

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by 暮らしの古民具・器こっころ (@antique_coccolo)

While vending machines selling beverages make up more than half of Japan’s 4 million food and drink dispensers, there are a good number of food options as well. Don’t think that these machines only sell packaged potato chips and chocolate bars, or that something out of a machine can’t taste fresh and good. These days, Japanese vending machines even dish out caviar, fresh sashimi, and wagyu steak.

Know a friend or family member going to Japan? Share these travel hacks with them!

Related Articles

JR Pass Singapore—The Ultimate Guide to Japan Rail Pass Types & Prices (2024)

What to Buy in Japan: Tokyo Banana, Shiroi Koibito Cookies & More Japanese Snack Prices

Top Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan – 20 Free Tours & Activities to Try!

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4 Awesome Japanese Destinations that are Cheaper to Visit than Tokyo

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