4 day itinerary for Tokyo

Itinerary

Tokyo is such a vibrant city with a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, and I’m excited to help you craft a relaxed 4-day itinerary that lets you savor the local cuisine while soaking in the sights. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Explore the Heart of Tokyo

Morning:

• Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple: Start your day at Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple. The approach to the temple, called Nakamise Street, is lined with shops selling traditional snacks and souvenirs. Don’t miss trying some freshly made ningyo-yaki (small cakes filled with red bean paste) and melon bread!

Lunch:

• Local Cuisine: Head to a nearby restaurant for some tempura. Try a place like Tempura Daikokuya, known for its delicious tempura bowls.

Afternoon:

• Ueno Park: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through Ueno Park. You can visit the Tokyo National Museum or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery. If you’re lucky, you might catch some cherry blossoms if you’re visiting in spring!

Evening:

• Dinner in Ameyoko Market: Explore Ameyoko, a bustling market street. Sample street food like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls). It’s a great place to soak in the local atmosphere!

## Day 2: Shibuya and Harajuku

Morning:

• Shibuya Crossing: Start your day at the iconic Shibuya Crossing. Grab a coffee at a nearby café and watch the organized chaos of people crossing from all directions.

Lunch:

• Sushi: Head to a sushi restaurant like Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka, where you can enjoy conveyor belt sushi at a reasonable price. It’s a fun experience!

Afternoon:

• Harajuku: Stroll down Takeshita Street, famous for its quirky shops and vibrant youth culture. Don’t forget to try a crepe from one of the many crepe shops!

Evening:

• Dinner in Omotesando: For dinner, explore Omotesando and find a cozy izakaya (Japanese pub) to enjoy dishes like sashimi, grilled fish, and various small plates. It’s a great way to experience Japanese dining culture!

## Day 3: Traditional and Modern Tokyo

Morning:

• Meiji Shrine: Start your day with a peaceful visit to Meiji Shrine, nestled in a forested area. It’s a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Lunch:

• Kaiseki Lunch: Treat yourself to a kaiseki meal (a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner) at a restaurant like Kikunoi Akasaka. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the presentation and flavors are worth it!

Afternoon:

• Akihabara: After lunch, head to Akihabara, the hub for electronics and otaku culture. Explore the shops, and if you’re interested, visit a themed café (like a maid café) for a unique experience.

Evening:

• Dinner in Ginza: Head to Ginza for dinner. Try a teppanyaki restaurant where you can watch your meal being prepared right in front of you. It’s a fun and interactive dining experience!

## Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko or Yokohama

Option 1: Nikko

• Morning: Take an early train to Nikko (about 2 hours). Visit the stunning Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Lunch: Try yuba (tofu skin), a local specialty, at a restaurant near the shrine.
• Afternoon: Explore the beautiful nature around Nikko, including Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and enjoy a casual dinner at a ramen shop.

Option 2: Yokohama

• Morning: Take a train to Yokohama (about 30 minutes). Visit the beautiful Sankeien Garden.
• Lunch: Head to Chinatown for some delicious dim sum or other Chinese dishes.
• Afternoon: Explore the waterfront area, including the Cup Noodles Museum and the Red Brick Warehouse.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and enjoy a farewell dinner at a local izakaya or a sushi restaurant.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Get a Suica or Pasmo card for easy travel on trains and buses.
• Cuisine: Don’t hesitate to try local specialties in each area you visit. Tokyo is a food lover’s paradise!
• Pace: Feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your energy levels. Tokyo has so much to offer, and sometimes the best experiences come from wandering and discovering hidden gems.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in Tokyo! Enjoy every bite and every moment! 🍣🌸