Planning a trip to Tokyo? Here’s your comprehensive guide covering everything from arrival to departure, including must-see attractions, delicious food stops, and practical travel tips.
Arrival and Getting Around
Arriving in Tokyo: Fly into either Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND). Haneda is closer to central Tokyo, but both airports offer excellent transport links to the city.
Getting to the City: From Narita, take the Narita Express (N’EX) to Tokyo Station, which takes about an hour. From Haneda, take the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho Station, then transfer to the JR Yamanote Line to reach central Tokyo.
Getting a Suica Card: Once you arrive at either airport, purchase a Suica card at a JR East Travel Service Center or a ticket vending machine. The Suica card is a rechargeable contactless smart card used for train travel and purchases at various locations throughout Japan. Top up the card as needed and use it for convenient travel on trains and buses.
Places to Stay:
Shinjuku: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku – vibrant nightlife and shopping.
Shibuya: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu – fantastic views and central location.
Ginza: The Peninsula Tokyo – luxury and high-end shopping.
Things to Do
Explore Shibuya and Harajuku:
Meiji Shrine: A serene Shinto shrine located near Harajuku Station.
Takeshita Street: Trendy shops and boutiques in Harajuku.
Shibuya Crossing: One of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world.
Shibuya 109: Famous shopping mall for fashion.
Discover Asakusa and Akihabara:
Senso-ji Temple: Tokyo’s oldest temple with Nakamise shopping street.
Akihabara: Hub of anime, manga, and electronics with themed cafes.
Modern Tokyo in Odaiba and Roppongi:
Odaiba: teamLab Borderless, shopping malls, and entertainment complexes.
Roppongi Hills: Mori Art Museum and observation deck for city views.
Traditional and Modern Blend in Ueno and Ginza:
Ueno Park: Museums and Ueno Zoo.
Ginza: Luxury shopping along Chuo-dori with department stores like Mitsukoshi and Wako.
Unique Experiences:
Go-Kart Tour: Drive through the most iconic areas of Tokyo, such as Asakusa, Skytree, and Akihabara, dressed as your favorite Mario Kart character. Ensure you have an international driver’s license.
teamLab Planets: An immersive digital art experience in Toyosu, offering interactive exhibits that blend art and technology.
Tokyo Tower: Visit this iconic landmark for panoramic views of the city. The tower also houses shops, restaurants, and an aquarium.
Day Trip Options:
Kyoto: Historic temples and gardens such as Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kinkaku-ji.
Yokohama: Waterfront area, Cup Noodles Museum, and vibrant Chinatown.
Relaxing Activities:
Tsukiji Outer Market: Sushi breakfast and local delicacies.
Japanese Gardens: Hama-rikyu Gardens or Koishikawa Korakuen Garden.
Onsen Experience: Oedo Onsen Monogatari in Odaiba.
Things to Eat
Must-Try Restaurants:
Uobei in Shibuya: Touch screen ordering, sushi trains, and super cheap prices.
Traditional Japanese Eateries in Asakusa: Tempura and soba.
Themed Restaurants in Akihabara: Robot Restaurant or maid cafes.
Upscale Sushi in Ginza: Sushi Jiro or Sukiyabashi Jiro (reservations needed months in advance).
Practical Tips
Download Google Translate: This will help bridge language barriers and facilitate interactions with locals.
Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing simple Japanese phrases like "hello," "thank you," "goodbye," and "please can I have" can go a long way in showing respect and making your trip smoother.
Mind Your Manners: Refrain from blowing your nose in public, consider wearing a mask if you’re feeling unwell, and follow train etiquette by not eating or drinking on trains.
No Tipping Culture: Remember that tipping is considered disrespectful in Japan. Show your appreciation through polite gestures and words instead.
Follow Escalator Etiquette: In Tokyo, stand on the left on escalators and allow others to pass on the right. In Osaka, stand on the right and let others pass on the left.
Enjoy your unforgettable adventure in Tokyo, filled with vibrant culture, delicious food, and incredible experiences!
