Destination OS · One district per half-day, one bed on the loop

Tokyo東京

Q: How do I get from Haneda to the city, and what does it cost?

Keikyu to Shinagawa is ¥330 in about 15–20 min, then JR onward; a limousine bus to Shinjuku hotels is about ¥1,300–1,500 (check). A taxi to Shinjuku is about ¥8,000–12,000.

Q: How do I get from Narita to the city?

Skyliner to Ueno, ¥2,580 reserved, about 45 min; Narita Express to Tokyo or Shinjuku about ¥3,000–3,300 (check); airport buses from about ¥1,300. Taxis run ¥25,000+.

Q: Is the JR Pass worth it for Tokyo?

No for Tokyo alone: city trips cost ¥180–400 each on an IC card. A nationwide pass pays only on long multi-region trips; check a fare calculator first.

Tokyo is twenty districts on one rail loop: pick one bed near your airport's hub, one district per half-day, never cross the city twice in a day.

Local time: --:--
Weather: forecast below
Currency: JPY
Best months: Jan · Feb · May · Oct · Nov · Dec
Airports: HND · NRT

Not field-verifiedgates A✓ B✓ C✓ D✓what gates mean

Start trip First time here Arrive HND Arrive NRT Print / PDF guide

36 pages, for the metro and roaming-off days

Cash need

2/5

Heat risk

4/5

Stroller

4/5

Friction

55/100

Rules in force · 7

East Asia ↗Every border in East Asia is a full international border, Hong Kong and Macau included: an entry permission for one never covers the next.
East Asia ↗Ferries between Korea, Japan and China cancel in rough seas and typhoons; keep a flight or a spare day behind every sea leg.
Japan ↗IC cards (ICOCA/Suica) are topped up with cash at station machines.
Japan ↗Smoking while walking is banned in most city centres; use designated areas.
Japan ↗Shinkansen bags 160–250 cm (L+W+H) need a seat reserved with the oversized-baggage area.
Kanto ↗Suica/PASMO is the default IC card; ICOCA also works.
Kanto ↗Tokyo stands on the left side of escalators.

Tokyo line · walking clusters

Asakusabags ok · half Shibuya / Harajukubags forbidden · half Shinjuku (east)bags painful · 90m Marunouchi / Ginzabags ok · half

At a glance

Clusters: 4
Places: 7
Day plans: 2
Places to eat: 7
Sleep areas: 2
Gateways: HND · NRT

Right now

Checking the weather…

Working out what is open near you…

Full “Right now” view →

Essentials

Quick answers, what is open, what things cost and how to get around

Quick answers

The questions people ask first about Tokyo, one line each. Tap a card for the full answer.

Cash or card?Cards, phone wallets and IC cards work in most shops, stations and chains; carry cash for temples, shrines, small restaurants…
SIM or eSIMInstall an eSIM before you fly, or rent pocket Wi-Fi or buy a data SIM at the airport.
Ride-hailing appGO · Uber and DiDi.
Tap waterTap water is safe to drink everywhere.
TippingNot practised — leaving money can cause confusion.
Plugs & powerSockets A. US/Canada (A/B): fits · UK/Ireland (G): adapter · Australia/NZ (I): adapter. 100 V: UK and AU 230 V-only devices need a converter; most chargers are dual-voltage.
Safe at night?Take more care after dark in Kabukichō (Shinjuku east), Roppongi crossing and side streets, Ikebukuro north exit and more.
Emergency numbers110 police · 119 fire and ambulance · 050-3816-2787 (≈ US$19) Japan Visitor Hotline (24 h) (not 911, 999 or 000)
Your embassycheckUS, UK, Canada, Australia, NZ, Ireland embassies listed with addresses (check before you go).
Closed which day?Mon: 6 on our list shut · Tue: 2 on our list shut.
Sundays & holidaysWhen a Monday is a national holiday most museums open and close on Tuesday instead.
Late at nightShops roughly 10:00–20:00; convenience stores 24 h.Shops roughly 10:00 AM–8:00 PM; convenience stores 24 h.
Rainy-day planRain moves you underground and indoors: Tokyo Station's and Shinjuku's underground malls, department stores and the Ueno museums.
Landing lateHND: last keikyu to Shinagawa about 23:45, then late-night limousine bus to your area's station until about 00:20.HND: last keikyu to Shinagawa about 11:45 PM, then late-night limousine bus to your area's station until about 12:20 AM.

Now in Tokyo

Local clock, this month, what is shut

Local time in Tokyo

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This month

Month verdict appears here.

Closed today

See the weekly grid below.

Weekly closure	Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri	Sat	Sun
Imperial Palace East GardensHoliday exceptions apply; also closed 28 Dec–3 Jan and for state events.	✕	·	·	·	✕	·	·
Shinjuku GyoenTuesday instead after a Monday holiday; open daily 25 Mar–24 Apr and 1–15 Nov.	✕	·	·	·	·	·	·
Tokyo National Museum (Ueno)Tuesday instead after a Monday holiday.	✕	·	·	·	·	·	·
National Museum of Nature and Science (Ueno)Tuesday instead after a Monday holiday.	✕	·	·	·	·	·	·
Ueno ZooTuesday instead after a Monday holiday.	✕	·	·	·	·	·	·
Miraikan (Odaiba)checkOpens some Tuesdays in school holidays.	·	✕	·	·	·	·	·
Ghibli Museum (Mitaka)checkDated tickets only, sold a month ahead; closed for maintenance periods.	·	✕	·	·	·	·	·
Edo-Tokyo Museum (Ryōgoku)checkClosed for renovation since 2022 with reopening planned around 2026: confirm it is open and its closing day.	✕	·	·	·	·	·	·
Toyosu Market (tuna auction viewing)checkAlso closed on public holidays and most Wednesdays; the auction runs early morning only.	·	·	·	·	·	·	✕

If today is a closure day: Monday: most museums (Tokyo National Museum, Nature and Science, Ueno Zoo) and Shinjuku Gyoen are shut, so make it a shrine-and-street day — Meiji Jingū, Sensō-ji, Shibuya. Keep the Imperial Palace East Gardens off Monday and Friday.

Open every day: Meiji Jingū, Nakamise-dōri, Sensō-ji, Shibuya Crossing, Takeshita-dōri.

check Tsukiji Outer Market: Open most days, but many shops close on Sundays, public holidays and some Wednesdays — see the market calendar.

Weekly closures come from our place pages and the list below. When a Monday is a national holiday most museums open and close on Tuesday instead. New Year (about 29 Dec–3 Jan) closes gardens, museums and many restaurants.

Cost cheat-sheet

2026 desk estimate · check

Typical prices for the everyday things, as ranges. Your currency is shown next to the local price.

CoffeeCoffee: café / convenience store¥450–800 (≈ US$4–6) / ¥120–250 (≈ US$1–2)
Sit-down mealSushi counter dinner, mid-range, per person¥5,000–15,000 (≈ US$35–110)
Street or quick mealBowl of ramen¥1,000–1,600 (≈ US$7–11)
BeerBeer: draught in an izakaya / can at a konbini¥550–850 (≈ US$4–6) / ¥230–330 (≈ US$2–3)
Taxi, about 5 kmTaxi, about 3 mi5 km taxi3.1 mi taxiFlag fall ¥500; 20% night surcharge 22:00–05:00.Flag fall ¥500; 20% night surcharge 10:00 PM–5:00 AM.¥2,300–2,900 (≈ US$16–20)
Metro or bus rideSubway or JR ride in the centreIC card fares are a few yen lower than paper tickets.¥150–330 (≈ US$2–3)
SIM or eSIM, a weekeSIM or data SIM, about a week¥2,000–4,000 (≈ US$14–30)
Museum or sight ticketMuseum or garden entry¥500–1,500 (≈ US$4–11)
Budget bedHostel dorm bed or capsule, a night, per person¥4,000 (≈ US$30)
Mid-range bedHotel double room, a night, per room¥25,000 (≈ US$170)
High-end bedHotel double room, a night, per room¥60,000 (≈ US$450)

A day, not counting the bed: Budget ¥8,000 (≈ US$55) · Mid ¥16,000 (≈ US$110) · High ¥32,000 (≈ US$250)

Local prices, with USD next to them (rates 2026-09 (approximate); change it in the header). Ranges are desk estimates: check locally. Every price and the budget calculator →

Getting around at a glance

Each way to get around: what it costs, when it is the right call, and what you pay with. Details and what goes wrong are in Get around.

Ways to get around
Mode	Fare	Use it for	Pay with
JR lines (Yamanote, Chūō)use	¥150–210 (≈ US$2) inside the loop	Linking the big hubs: Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo, Ueno, Shinagawa	Suica or PASMO in a phone wallet
Subway (Tokyo Metro and Toei)use	¥180–330 (≈ US$2–3); 24/48/72 h pass ¥1,000 (≈ US$7)/1,500 (≈ US$11)/2,000 (≈ US$14) (check)	Asakusa, Ginza, Roppongi, Tsukiji and everything inside the loop	Suica or PASMO in a phone wallet
IC card (Suica/PASMO)use	Deposit-free in phone wallets; ¥500 (≈ US$4) deposit on a plastic card	Every train, bus, locker and konbini	—
Walkinguse	Free	Inside a district; Ginza to Tokyo Station; Harajuku to Shibuya	—
Taxiok	¥500 (≈ US$4) flag fall; ¥2,300–2,900 (≈ US$16–20) for 5 km¥500 (≈ US$4) flag fall; ¥2,300–2,900 (≈ US$16–20) for 3.1 mi	Bags, groups of 3–4, after the last train	Hail, or GO · Uber and DiDi
City buslimited	¥210 (≈ US$2) (Toei) or ¥220 (≈ US$2) flat	North–south hops the rail lines miss	Suica or PASMO in a phone wallet
Bike shareok	About ¥130–165 (≈ US$1–2) per 30 min (check)	Sunday rides along the palace moat and Sumida river	—
Water busok	About ¥1,000–1,800 (≈ US$7–13) (check)	Asakusa to Hama-rikyū or Odaiba as a sightseeing ride	—
Rental caravoid	Tolls ¥1,300 (≈ US$9)+ per expressway entry, parking ¥300–800 (≈ US$3–6) per 30 min	Only for trips out to the mountains	—

Last trains: Most last trains leave between 23:30 and 00:30; status unknown until verified per line.Most last trains leave between 11:30 PM and 12:30 AM; status unknown until verified per line.
Passes: A 24/48/72-hour subway pass pays with 4+ subway rides a day; JR lines are not included.

Cheat card

The essentials on one card: save it as an image for your phone, share it, or print it.

Tokyo

東京

Money: Tokyo is mostly cashless; keep ¥5,000 for shrines, small restaurants and IC top-ups.
SIM: Install an eSIM before you fly, or rent pocket Wi-Fi or buy a data SIM at the airport.
Ride app: GO · Uber and DiDi
Emergency: 110 police · 119 fire and ambulance · 050-3816-2787 Japan Visitor Hotline (24 h) (not 911, 999 or 000)
Plugs: Sockets A. US/Canada (A/B): fits · UK/Ireland (G): adapter · Australia/NZ (I): adapter. 100 V: UK and AU 230 V-only devices need a converter; most chargers are dual-voltage.

Say it

Excuse me / Sorry: すみません (sumimasen)
Thank you: ありがとうございます (arigatō gozaimasu)
This one, please: これをください (kore o kudasai)
Can I pay by card?: カードで払えますか？ (kādo de haraemasu ka)
To this address, please: ここまでお願いします (koko made onegai shimasu)

Top 5

Sensō-ji before the crowds
Meiji Jingū
Shibuya Crossing and a view from above
Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market
Omoide Yokochō and Golden Gai after dark

Decide

Who it suits, the trade-offs and when to go

Overview

The city in one paragraph, who it fits, and how many days it takes.

Tokyo runs on time and on rails, and it is too big to see. The failure is not missing a sight; it is spending three hours a day on trains, dragging bags through Shinjuku station at rush hour, and landing at Narita after the last Skyliner. Choose Shinjuku for Haneda, Ueno for Narita, and plan each day inside one or two neighbouring districts.

Fits

First trip to Japan (via HND)
Food and city walking
Families (elevators everywhere)

Does not fit

Temple-dense trips (go to Kyoto)
Travellers who want one compact centre

2 days: Asakusa + Shibuya/Harajuku; skip the rest
3 days: Asakusa, Meiji/Shibuya, Marunouchi/Ginza
5 days: Four districts + Kamakura
Don't confuse: Shinjuku station and Shinjuku-sanchōme are different stations; the station has 200+ exits.

Understand the cityUnderstand · Districts2 parts

Understand

Only the history you meet on the ground

01Tokyo was Edo, the shōgun's castle town, from 1603; the emperor moved here in 1868 and the name changed to 'eastern capital'. The Imperial Palace stands on the castle site, which is why the centre of the map is a walled green block you walk around, not through.
02The old split still shows: the low-lying shitamachi to the north-east (Asakusa, Ueno, Yanaka, Ryōgoku) was the merchants' town and keeps temples, markets and cheaper beds; the hilly yamanote side to the west (Shinjuku, Shibuya, Roppongi) was samurai land and is now towers, shopping and nightlife.
03The 1923 earthquake and the 1945 air raids destroyed most of the old city, so almost everything is post-war on pre-war street lines. Wooden survivors cluster in Yanaka and a few lanes of Asakusa; do not expect an old town the way Kyoto has one.
04Tokyo is a metropolis of 23 wards plus western cities and far islands. Neighbourhoods take the name of their station, streets rarely have names, and an address is district–block–building (for example 1-5-6). Navigate by station and exit number, then a map pin.

History you can still see

When	What happened	Where you see it
628	By temple legend, two fishermen net a small Kannon statue in the Sumida and a shrine is built for it.	Sensō-ji — the precinct keeps the old layout; the halls you see were rebuilt after 1945.
1457	The warlord Ōta Dōkan builds the first castle at Edo on a bluff over the bay.	Imperial Palace East Gardens — the site became the Tokugawa castle; its moats and stone walls ring the palace today.
1603	Tokugawa Ieyasu becomes shōgun and makes Edo his seat; the Five Routes start at Nihonbashi.	Nihonbashi bridge (the 1911 stone bridge, under an expressway being moved underground); the zero-kilometre marker.
1657	The Meireki fire burns most of Edo, including the castle keep, which is never rebuilt.	Imperial Palace East Gardens — the empty keep base on the Honmaru lawn.
1868–1869	The Meiji Restoration: the shogunate falls, Edo is renamed Tokyo and the emperor moves into the castle.	the Imperial Palace and Nijūbashi bridge from the outer plaza.
1872	Japan's first railway opens from Shimbashi to Yokohama.	a replica of the old Shimbashi station building in Shiodome (check opening).
1914	Tokyo Station opens on the Marunouchi side, facing the palace.	Marunouchi / Ginza — the red-brick building, restored with its domes in 2012.
1920	Meiji Jingū is completed in a planted forest for the late emperor.	Meiji Jingū — the forest grown from donated trees; main hall rebuilt in 1958.
1923	The Great Kantō Earthquake and fires kill over 100,000 people.	the memorial hall in Yokoamichō Park, Ryōgoku.
1927	The Ginza line opens between Ueno and Asakusa, the first subway in Asia.	the orange Ginza line; Asakusa and Ueno stations keep period details.
1945	The air raid of 10 March burns the eastern city; around 100,000 die in one night.	the Tokyo Air Raid and War Damage Resource Center in Kitasuna (check hours); rebuilt temples across Asakusa.
1964	The Olympics arrive with the first Shinkansen and the elevated expressways.	Kenzō Tange's Yoyogi National Gymnasium beside Harajuku; the Tōkaidō Shinkansen from Tokyo Station.
2012	Tokyo Skytree opens at 634 m.	Oshiage, one stop from Asakusa.
2018	The wholesale fish market leaves Tsukiji for Toyosu.	Tsukiji's outer market stays as a street-food district; tuna auctions are viewed at Toyosu.
2021	The delayed 2020 Olympics are held without spectators.	Kengo Kuma's timber-clad National Stadium in Sendagaya.

More background

Greater Tokyo holds around 37 million people, the largest metropolitan area on earth, yet the city works as a collection of station towns. Each big station has its department stores, restaurant floors and nightlife stacked around it, and neighbourhoods a few hundred metres off the main road turn residential and quiet. That is why one district per half-day works: you are moving between small cities joined by rail.

Tokyo sits on an active fault system. Buildings are engineered for shaking and small tremors are routine; phones, TV and station screens carry official alerts. The city also plans for floods and typhoons, which occasionally stop trains for a day in late summer.

Politeness here is mostly about not inconveniencing strangers: quiet trains, orderly queues, taking rubbish home. Visitors are forgiven almost anything except blocking a platform or a doorway.

Tourist information

Tokyo Tourist Information Center, ground floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Nishi-Shinjuku: maps, event dates, and a free observation deck upstairs (check the deck's closing days).
Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, opposite Kaminarimon: staffed desk, toilets and a free 8th-floor terrace over Nakamise.
JR East Travel Service Centers at Tokyo, Shinjuku, Ueno and both airports sell rail passes and reserve Shinkansen seats; expect queues in the morning.
Desks signed 'information' inside department stores and malls are for that building only.

Orientation & districts

Where to sleep, see, eat — and what to skip

Think of central Tokyo as the JR Yamanote loop, about 35 km and an hour end to end. Shinjuku, Shibuya and Ikebukuro sit on its west side; Tokyo Station, Ginza and Ueno on the east; Asakusa is just outside it to the north-east and Odaiba across the bay. A first visit lives on the loop plus Asakusa: pick a bed near a station on your airport's line and keep each day on one side of the loop.

District	Role	Suits	Why	Go to
Shinjuku (west and south exits)新宿	sleepeat	First visit via Haneda, night owls, day trips west	Big 24-hour hotels, direct trains to Hakone and Fuji; the station is a maze, so pick a hotel by exit.	Shinjuku (east)Sleep: Shinjuku (south/west)
Shinjuku east: Kabukichō, Golden Gai, Ni-chōme歌舞伎町・ゴールデン街・二丁目	eatsee	One evening of bars and neon	Loud until morning; touts on every corner of Kabukichō. Drink here, sleep on the south or west side.	Shinjuku (east)
Shibuya and Harajuku渋谷・原宿	seeeatsleep	Fashion, the crossing, Meiji Jingū	Walk it north to south in one morning. Hotels are newer and pricier than Shinjuku; weekend crowds are heavy.	Shibuya / Harajuku
Asakusa浅草	seesleep	Temple mornings, budget and ryokan-style beds	Sensō-ji before 08:30; quiet after 21:00. Direct Toei Asakusa line trains from both airports on some runs (check).Sensō-ji before 8:30 AM; quiet after 9:00 PM. Direct Toei Asakusa line trains from both airports on some runs (check).	Asakusa
Ueno上野	sleepsee	Narita arrivals, museum days, value hotels	Skyliner terminus; the national museums, zoo and park on one side, Ameyoko market on the other.	Sleep: Ueno
Tokyo Station, Marunouchi, Ginza, Nihonbashi丸の内・銀座・日本橋	seeeatsleep	Shinkansen days, business travel, department stores	Flat, covered and quiet at night; the East Gardens and Tsukiji on foot. Upmarket hotel prices.	Marunouchi / Ginza
Roppongi, Azabudai, Akasaka六本木・麻布台・赤坂	seeeat	Art museums, Tokyo Tower views, late dinners	Mori Art Museum and the National Art Center by day. At night the main crossing has bar touts and a record of drink spiking: pick bars yourself.	—
Ikebukuro池袋	sleep	Budget and mid-range beds, anime shops	Huge station on the north-west of the loop; good hotel value but 25–35 min to Asakusa or Ginza.	—
Akihabara and Kanda秋葉原・神田	see	Electronics, anime, retro games	One stop from Ueno or Tokyo Station; a 2–3 hour visit. Maid-café touts on the main street are pushy but harmless.	—
Yanaka, Nezu, Sendagi谷中・根津・千駄木	see	A slow half day of old lanes and temples	Walk from Nippori station through the cemetery; small shops keep short hours and many close one weekday.	—
Ryōgoku and Oshiage (Skytree)両国・押上	see	Sumo, Skytree, Edo history	Sumo tournaments in January, May and September; Skytree is one stop from Asakusa by Tobu.	—
Odaiba and Toyosuお台場・豊洲	seeskip	teamLab, Miraikan, a bay view	A half-day ride out on the Yurikamome or Rinkai line; do not base yourself here.	—
Ebisu, Nakameguro, Daikanyama恵比寿・中目黒・代官山	eat	Dinner and bars away from the crowds	One stop from Shibuya; Meguro River is packed in blossom week.	—
Shimokitazawa, Kōenji, Nakano下北沢・高円寺・中野	eat	Vintage clothes, live music, small bars	10–15 min west of Shibuya or Shinjuku; afternoons and evenings, not mornings.	—
Shinagawa品川	sleep	Early Haneda flights, Shinkansen to Kyoto	Keikyu to Haneda in under 20 min and a Shinkansen stop; business hotels, little to see.	—

Ward names (Chiyoda, Minato, Taitō) matter on addresses; travellers and signs use station names. 'Tokyo Bay' in a hotel name can mean Odaiba or even Chiba prefecture, 30–60 min from the sights.

Where’s whatTap an area for what it is like and who it suits. Shapes follow this guide’s walking areas and places, not official boundaries.

Hover, tap or tab to an area to see what it is like. Pins are sleep areas; arrows at the edge point to the airport.

Not drawn yet (no coordinates in this guide): Roppongi, Azabudai, Akasaka, Ikebukuro, Akihabara and Kanda, Yanaka, Nezu, Sendagi, Ryōgoku and Oshiage (Skytree), Odaiba and Toyosu, Ebisu, Nakameguro, Daikanyama, Shimokitazawa, Kōenji, Nakano, Shinagawa. See the table above.

Where’s what, as a list:

Shinjuku (west and south exits) (新宿): Big 24-hour hotels, direct trains to Hakone and Fuji; the station is a maze, so pick a hotel by exit. Suits: First visit via Haneda, night owls, day trips west. Price band $$.
Shinjuku east: Kabukichō, Golden Gai, Ni-chōme (歌舞伎町・ゴールデン街・二丁目): Loud until morning; touts on every corner of Kabukichō. Drink here, sleep on the south or west side. Suits: One evening of bars and neon.
Shibuya and Harajuku (渋谷・原宿): Walk it north to south in one morning. Hotels are newer and pricier than Shinjuku; weekend crowds are heavy. Suits: Fashion, the crossing, Meiji Jingū.
Asakusa (浅草): Sensō-ji before 08:30; quiet after 21:00. Direct Toei Asakusa line trains from both airports on some runs (check).Sensō-ji before 8:30 AM; quiet after 9:00 PM. Direct Toei Asakusa line trains from both airports on some runs (check). Suits: Temple mornings, budget and ryokan-style beds.
Ueno (上野): Skyliner terminus; the national museums, zoo and park on one side, Ameyoko market on the other. Suits: Narita arrivals, museum days, value hotels. Price band $$.
Tokyo Station, Marunouchi, Ginza, Nihonbashi (丸の内・銀座・日本橋): Flat, covered and quiet at night; the East Gardens and Tsukiji on foot. Upmarket hotel prices. Suits: Shinkansen days, business travel, department stores.
Roppongi, Azabudai, Akasaka (六本木・麻布台・赤坂): Mori Art Museum and the National Art Center by day. At night the main crossing has bar touts and a record of drink spiking: pick bars yourself. Suits: Art museums, Tokyo Tower views, late dinners.
Ikebukuro (池袋): Huge station on the north-west of the loop; good hotel value but 25–35 min to Asakusa or Ginza. Suits: Budget and mid-range beds, anime shops.
Akihabara and Kanda (秋葉原・神田): One stop from Ueno or Tokyo Station; a 2–3 hour visit. Maid-café touts on the main street are pushy but harmless. Suits: Electronics, anime, retro games.
Yanaka, Nezu, Sendagi (谷中・根津・千駄木): Walk from Nippori station through the cemetery; small shops keep short hours and many close one weekday. Suits: A slow half day of old lanes and temples.
Ryōgoku and Oshiage (Skytree) (両国・押上): Sumo tournaments in January, May and September; Skytree is one stop from Asakusa by Tobu. Suits: Sumo, Skytree, Edo history.
Odaiba and Toyosu (お台場・豊洲): A half-day ride out on the Yurikamome or Rinkai line; do not base yourself here. Suits: teamLab, Miraikan, a bay view.
Ebisu, Nakameguro, Daikanyama (恵比寿・中目黒・代官山): One stop from Shibuya; Meguro River is packed in blossom week. Suits: Dinner and bars away from the crowds.
Shimokitazawa, Kōenji, Nakano (下北沢・高円寺・中野): 10–15 min west of Shibuya or Shinjuku; afternoons and evenings, not mornings. Suits: Vintage clothes, live music, small bars.
Shinagawa (品川): Keikyu to Haneda in under 20 min and a Shinkansen stop; business hotels, little to see. Suits: Early Haneda flights, Shinkansen to Kyoto.
Sleep area Shinjuku (south/west): suits First visit via Haneda, night owls, day trips west, price band $$.
Sleep area Ueno: suits Narita arrivals, museum days, value hotels, price band $$.
Haneda Airport (HND), about 17 km11 mi from the centre, 18–25 min by the usual route.
Narita Airport (NRT), about 62 km39 mi from the centre, 44–52 min by the usual route.

Neighbourhoods at a glance

One card per area, pulled together from this guide’s districts table, area notes, sleep-area scores and place pages. Scores are desk judgements (1–5); prices are estimates, check before you book.

Shinjuku (west and south exits)
$$
新宿
sleepeattowershotelsdepartment stores
Big 24-hour hotels, direct trains to Hakone and Fuji; the station is a maze, so pick a hotel by exit.
Suits:
First visit via Haneda, night owls, day trips west
Best time:
Any time
Rooms:
¥15,000–35,000 (from the sleep guide)
After dark:
Omoide Yokochō, Golden Gai, Ni-chōme and Kabukichō bars until morning; department-store restaurant floors until about 23:00; Don Quijote 24 h. (until about 05:00)
- Quiet nights
- Nightlife
- Families
- Late arrival
Why these scores
- Quiet nights: Fine on the west side; rooms near Kabukichō or the tracks hear the night.
- Nightlife: Golden Gai, Omoide Yokochō and Ni-chōme within 10 minutes on foot.
- Families: Shinjuku Gyoen and big hotels with family rooms, but crowds and neon at child height on the east side.
- Late arrival: 24-hour desks everywhere and the last Haneda buses run here.
See
- Shinjuku Gyoen
Eat
- Fūunji (tsukemen)
- Omoide Yokochō
Getting around from here
- 15–22 min walk to Shibuya / Harajuku
- HND: about 17 km in a straight line (arrival ride 18–25 min)HND: about 11 mi in a straight line (arrival ride 18–25 min)
Pick this if: Base for Haneda and day trips
Watch out for: Choosing a hotel by 'Shinjuku' without the exit name.
District guide Sleep: Shinjuku (south/west)Walk: Shinjuku (east)On the map
Shinjuku east: Kabukichō, Golden Gai, Ni-chōme
歌舞伎町・ゴールデン街・二丁目
eatseetowershotelsdepartment stores
Loud until morning; touts on every corner of Kabukichō. Drink here, sleep on the south or west side.
Suits:
One evening of bars and neon
Best time:
Any time
After dark:
Omoide Yokochō, Golden Gai, Ni-chōme and Kabukichō bars until morning; department-store restaurant floors until about 23:00; Don Quijote 24 h. (until about 05:00)
See
- Shinjuku Gyoen
Eat
- Fūunji (tsukemen)
- Omoide Yokochō
Getting around from here
- JR Yamanote: about 10 min to Shibuya / Harajuku
Pick this if: Base for Haneda and day trips
Watch out for: Choosing a hotel by 'Shinjuku' without the exit name.
District guide Walk: Shinjuku (east)On the map
Shibuya and Harajuku
渋谷・原宿
seeeatsleepyoungloudfashionscreens
Walk it north to south in one morning. Hotels are newer and pricier than Shinjuku; weekend crowds are heavy.
Suits:
Fashion, the crossing, Meiji Jingū
Best time:
Weekday afternoons
After dark:
Shibuya bars, clubs and Center-gai until the first train; Miyashita Park's restaurants and Shibuya Yokochō until late. (until about 05:00)
See
Eat
- Harajuku Gyoza-rō
Getting around from here
- JR Yamanote: about 10 min to Shinjuku (east)
Pick this if: Shoppers, first night out
Watch out for: Takeshita-dōri on Saturday afternoon.
District guide Walk: Shibuya / Harajuku On the map
Asakusa
浅草
seesleepold downtowntemplerickshawscraft shops
Sensō-ji before 08:30; quiet after 21:00. Direct Toei Asakusa line trains from both airports on some runs (check).Sensō-ji before 8:30 AM; quiet after 9:00 PM. Direct Toei Asakusa line trains from both airports on some runs (check).
Suits:
Temple mornings, budget and ryokan-style beds
Best time:
Before 08:30 or after 18:00Before 8:30 AM or after 6:00 PM
After dark:
Sensō-ji precinct (lit until about 23:00), Hoppy Street izakaya, convenience stores; Skytree views across the river. (until about 21:00)
See
- Sensō-ji
- Nakamise-dōri
Eat
- Asakusa Imahan (sukiyaki)
- Daikokuya Tempura
Getting around from here
- Ginza line: about 20 min to Marunouchi / Ginza
Pick this if: Temple mornings, families
Watch out for: Late-morning weekends on Nakamise.
District guide Walk: Asakusa On the map
Ueno
$$
上野
sleepsee
Skyliner terminus; the national museums, zoo and park on one side, Ameyoko market on the other.
Suits:
Narita arrivals, museum days, value hotels
Rooms:
¥3,500–7,000 dorm bed or capsule · ¥9,000–14,000 double (from the sleep guide)
- Quiet nights
- Nightlife
- Families
- Late arrival
Why these scores
- Quiet nights: Quieter than the west side once Ameyoko shuts.
- Nightlife: Ameyoko standing bars and izakaya; nothing runs very late.
- Families: Zoo, science museum and a big park next door.
- Late arrival: Staffed desks are common, but check small hotels near Okachimachi for a midnight door.
Getting around from here
- 15–22 min walk to Asakusa
- 20–28 min walk to Marunouchi / Ginza
- HND: about 18 km in a straight line (arrival ride 18–25 min)HND: about 11 mi in a straight line (arrival ride 18–25 min)
District guide Sleep: Ueno On the map
Tokyo Station, Marunouchi, Ginza, Nihonbashi
丸の内・銀座・日本橋
seeeatsleeppolishedquietbrick stationflagship stores
Flat, covered and quiet at night; the East Gardens and Tsukiji on foot. Upmarket hotel prices.
Suits:
Shinkansen days, business travel, department stores
Best time:
Weekend afternoons when Chūō-dōri closes to cars
After dark:
Yūrakuchō izakaya under the tracks, Ginza bars, Tokyo Station restaurant streets until about 22:30–23:00. (until about 23:00)
See
- Imperial Palace East Gardens
Eat
- Tokyo Ramen Street
- Tsukiji Outer Market
Getting around from here
- Ginza line: about 20 min to Asakusa
Pick this if: Couples, older travellers, business
Watch out for: Budget dining.
District guide Walk: Marunouchi / Ginza On the map
Roppongi, Azabudai, Akasaka
六本木・麻布台・赤坂
seeeatart museums by dayclubs by night
Mori Art Museum and the National Art Center by day. At night the main crossing has bar touts and a record of drink spiking: pick bars yourself.
Suits:
Art museums, Tokyo Tower views, late dinners
Best time:
Day for museums
Pick this if: Art, late dinners
Watch out for: Street touts at the main crossing at night.
District guide On the map and table
Ikebukuro
池袋
sleep
Huge station on the north-west of the loop; good hotel value but 25–35 min to Asakusa or Ginza.
Suits:
Budget and mid-range beds, anime shops
District guide On the map and table
Akihabara and Kanda
秋葉原・神田
see
One stop from Ueno or Tokyo Station; a 2–3 hour visit. Maid-café touts on the main street are pushy but harmless.
Suits:
Electronics, anime, retro games
District guide On the map and table
Yanaka, Nezu, Sendagi
谷中・根津・千駄木
see
Walk from Nippori station through the cemetery; small shops keep short hours and many close one weekday.
Suits:
A slow half day of old lanes and temples
On the map and table
Ryōgoku and Oshiage (Skytree)
両国・押上
see
Sumo tournaments in January, May and September; Skytree is one stop from Asakusa by Tobu.
Suits:
Sumo, Skytree, Edo history
On the map and table
Odaiba and Toyosu
お台場・豊洲
seeskipreclaimed bay landmallsdigital art
A half-day ride out on the Yurikamome or Rinkai line; do not base yourself here.
Suits:
teamLab, Miraikan, a bay view
Best time:
Afternoon to sunset
Pick this if: Kids, rainy days
Watch out for: Sleeping there.
On the map and table
Ebisu, Nakameguro, Daikanyama
恵比寿・中目黒・代官山
eat
One stop from Shibuya; Meguro River is packed in blossom week.
Suits:
Dinner and bars away from the crowds
District guide On the map and table
Shimokitazawa, Kōenji, Nakano
下北沢・高円寺・中野
eat
10–15 min west of Shibuya or Shinjuku; afternoons and evenings, not mornings.
Suits:
Vintage clothes, live music, small bars
District guide On the map and table
Shinagawa
品川
sleep
Keikyu to Haneda in under 20 min and a Shinkansen stop; business hotels, little to see.
Suits:
Early Haneda flights, Shinkansen to Kyoto
On the map and table

District guidesAll district guides in Tokyo →

Famous streetsAll famous streets in Tokyo →

Decide

The honest trade-off: what you will enjoy, what will wear you down.

Similar cities

If Tokyo does not fit your dates or budget, these match it on season, cost and feel.

Osaka
Japan
- Good in the same months: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr and 4 more
- A mid-range day costs about the same (≈US$95 vs US$108, excl. bed)
- Works well for first-timers, food trips, families
- A similar climate through the year
Read the comparison →Side by side →
Lisbon
Portugal
- Good in the same months: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr and 4 more
- A mid-range day costs about the same (≈US$116 vs US$108, excl. bed)
- Works well for first-timers, food trips, couples
- A similar climate through the year
Side by side →
Kyoto
Japan
- Good in the same months: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr and 4 more
- A mid-range day costs about the same (≈US$101 vs US$108, excl. bed)
- Works well for first-timers, food trips, couples
- A similar climate through the year
Side by side →

When

Best months: Jan, Feb, May, Oct, Nov, Dec. Month-by-month verdicts below, with the live forecast first. When to go, month by month →

Tokyo: next 7 days

Loading forecast…

Forecast: Open-Meteo (CC BY 4.0), model data for this point.

Air quality

Loading…

Model estimate (CAMS via Open-Meteo), not a street-level station; readings near busy roads run higher.

Jango

Cold, clear skies.

Febgo

Cold; plum blossom.

Margo early

Late-March blossom crowds.

Aprgo early

Blossom early April; Golden Week at month end.

Maygo

Avoid Golden Week.

Juncaution

Rainy season.

Julcaution

Heat and humidity.

Augavoid

Extreme heat; Obon.

Sepcaution

Heat and typhoons.

Octgo

Good walking weather.

Novgo

Leaves late November.

Decgo

Illuminations; closures Dec 29–Jan 3.

Climate and calendarClimate · Calendar2 parts

Climate

Japan Meteorological Agency 1991–2020 averages, rounded; rain days = 1 mm or more

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
High °C°F	1050	1152	1457	1966	2475	2679	3086	3188	2882	2272	1763	1254
Low °C°F	134	236	541	1050	1559	1966	2272	2475	2068	1559	948	439
Rain days	5	6	10	10	11	13	12	9	12	10	8	5
Verdict

December to February is dry and sunny with cold mornings near freezing: the clearest views of Mount Fuji from the city and day trips.
The rainy season runs from about early June to mid-July: grey days and steady rain rather than storms. Pack a folding umbrella; every convenience store sells one.
July to early September averages 30–31 °C with nights above 24 °C and heavy humidity; heat-stroke alerts are common. September and October carry the typhoon risk.July to early September averages 86–88 °F with nights above 75 °F and heavy humidity; heat-stroke alerts are common. September and October carry the typhoon risk.
Late March–early April (blossom) and November (leaves) are the best walking months and the most expensive for beds.

Events by month

Tokyo's festivals follow the solar calendar, but blossom and leaf dates move with the weather and some festivals run only in odd or even years. Check this year's dates before you build a trip on one.

New Year shrine visits (hatsumōde)
holiday
1–3 January · Meiji Jingū, Sensō-ji, every shrine
Millions queue at the big shrines; one-way crowd routes at Harajuku and Asakusa. Many restaurants, museums and gardens close 29 Dec–3 Jan.
New Year greeting at the Imperial Palace
culture
2 January · Imperial Palace inner grounds(check dates)
The one day the public enters the inner palace plaza; security queues from early morning.
Coming of Age Day
holiday
Second Monday of January · Shrines and city halls
20-year-olds in kimono and suits at shrines; a public holiday, so museums shift their closing day.
Grand Sumo tournaments
sport
15 days, starting the second Sunday of the month · Ryōgoku Kokugikan(check dates)
Tickets sell out on release weekends; same-day unreserved seats in small numbers (check).
Plum blossom
season
Mid-February to early March · Yushima Tenjin, Koishikawa Kōrakuen, Hanegi Park
Small crowds, a quieter preview of the cherry season.
Tokyo Marathon
sport
Early March (check) · Shinjuku to Tokyo Station via Asakusa and Ginza(check dates)
Roads closed through the morning; taxis and buses reroute. Hotels on the course fill.
Cherry blossom (hanami)
season
Usually late March to early April · Ueno Park, Chidorigafuchi, Meguro River, Shinjuku Gyoen, Sumida Park(check dates)
Parks packed from dawn with picnic tarps; hotel prices peak. Shinjuku Gyoen opens daily 25 Mar–24 Apr.
Golden Week
holiday
About 29 April – 5 May · Nationwide
Japan's biggest holiday week: Shinkansen and day-trip trains full, Tokyo itself a little calmer. Book onward travel early.
Sanja Matsuri
festival
Third weekend of May · Asakusa, around Sensō-ji
Portable shrines carried through the streets for three days; Asakusa is packed and slow.
Kanda Matsuri
festival
Mid-May, main parade in odd-numbered years · Kanda Myōjin, Akihabara, Nihonbashi(check dates)
Processions through central streets; roads closed around Kanda.
Sannō Matsuri
festival
Mid-June, main procession in even-numbered years · Hie Shrine, Akasaka, Marunouchi(check dates)
A court-costume procession passes the palace and Ginza.
Rainy season (tsuyu)
season
About early June to mid-July · Whole city
Grey days and steady rain; hydrangeas at Hakusan Shrine and in Kamakura. Plan indoor mornings.
Tokyo Pride
culture
June (check) · Yoyogi Park and a parade through Shibuya(check dates)
A parade and festival weekend; Ni-chōme bars busy.
Hōzuki-ichi (lantern-plant fair)
festival
9–10 July · Sensō-ji
Stalls of potted lantern plants fill the precinct; a visit on these days is said to count for many.
Mitama Matsuri
festival
Mid-July · Yasukuni Shrine, Kudanshita(check dates)
Thousands of lanterns on the approach in the evenings.
Sumida River fireworks
festival
Last Saturday of July (check) · Asakusa and the Sumida riverside(check dates)
About a million people; Asakusa station and riverside streets are gridlocked from late afternoon.
Obon
holiday
About 13–16 August · Nationwide
Trains out of Tokyo full, some small shops shut; the city itself is quieter.
Kōenji Awa Odori
festival
Late August weekend (check) · Kōenji station streets(check dates)
Thousands of dancers; the Chūō line stops are crushed in the evening.
Typhoon season
season
Peaks late August–September · Whole city
Trains can stop for half a day; Hakone, Fuji and island trips are the first cancelled. Watch the forecast two days out.
Halloween in Shibuya
culture
Around 31 October · Shibuya crossing and Center-gai(check dates)
Police crowd control and a street-drinking ban around the station; many shops close early.
Tokyo International Film Festival
culture
Late October – early November (check) · Hibiya and Ginza(check dates)
Screenings with English subtitles; open to the public.
Tori-no-ichi fairs
festival
Rooster days in November (two or three a year) · Ōtori Shrine, Asakusa; Hanazono Shrine, Shinjuku(check dates)
Night fairs selling decorated bamboo rakes for luck; crowded late into the night.
Autumn leaves
season
Late November – early December · Rikugien, Jingū Gaien ginkgo avenue, Shinjuku Gyoen, Koishikawa Kōrakuen(check dates)
Evening garden illuminations with timed tickets; ginkgo avenue packed on weekends.
Winter illuminations
season
Mid-November to December or February · Marunouchi, Roppongi, Omotesandō, Shibuya
Free light displays along main streets; crowded on weekends before Christmas.

Festivals and events that change the plan

When	What	Effect on your plan
Late Mar–early Apr	Cherry blossom	Parks (Ueno, Shinjuku Gyoen, Meguro River) packed; book beds early.
Late Apr–early May	Golden Week	Domestic travel peak; trains and hotels full; some shops closed.
3rd weekend of May	Sanja Matsuri (Asakusa)	Portable shrines and huge crowds around Sensō-ji.
Late July	Sumida River fireworks	Riverside Asakusa impassable in the evening.
Dec 31–Jan 3	New Year	Meiji Jingū and Sensō-ji see millions of visitors; many restaurants closed.

Arrive & move

Getting in, getting around, and your bags

I land at…

Enter your landing time: what still runs from the airport, where you can eat when you get in, and which areas let you check in that late.

Landing time (Tokyo time)Day you landAirport

Out of the airport about 23:4011:40 PM (00:20 (next day)12:20 AM (next day) if immigration and bags are slow); in town about 23:5811:58 PM.

Transport from the airport

RunningKeikyu to Shinagawa. Last one about 23:45; you reach it around 23:40 (00:20 if immigration is slow).Last one about 11:45 PM; you reach it around 11:40 PM (12:20 AM if immigration is slow).
RunningLate-night limousine bus to your area's station. Until about 00:20.Until about 12:20 AM.
Any hourTaxi (fixed fare zones) to your door. Any hour.
Last resortOvernight at the airport. If nothing else works.

Places to eat open when you get in

We have no confirmed hours for the places to eat here yet. Plan on a convenience store or your hotel. What is open late →

Where to sleep with a late arrival

Lets you inShinjuku (south/west) 24-hour desk. 24-hour desks everywhere and the last Haneda buses run here.
Lets you inUeno 24-hour desk. Staffed desks are common, but check small hotels near Okachimachi for a midnight door.

Typical times from our airport data, not a timetable: check the last departure on the day. Full airport-to-bed plan for Haneda Airport (HND) →

Arrive

Gateways

Each gateway has its own airport-to-bed page with timings and the last safe connection.

Haneda Airport (HND)Launch profile 21:00 → Shinjuku (south/west): feasibleHaneda is Tokyo's easy airport: Keikyu to Shinagawa, then the JR loop; after the last train, night buses and a fixed-fare taxi still reach the bed.Narita Airport (NRT)Narita is far: the Skyliner to Ueno is the zero-brain path, and after about 22:00 the ladder ends at an airport hotel more often than at your bed.

Getting in, in detailGet in1 part

Get in by rail and road

Air arrivals are on the gateway pages (Haneda and Narita). This is for Shinkansen, rail and long-distance buses. Pick the station on your hotel's side of the city.

Station	Mode	Serves	Where	To the centre
Tokyo Station東京駅use	Train	All Shinkansen: Tōkaidō (Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima), Tōhoku, Jōetsu, Hokuriku; Narita Express; Keiyō line to Disney	Marunouchi side faces the palace; Yaesu side for buses · Marunouchi	It is the centre; Yamanote and Marunouchi line insideAllow 15–20 min between a Shinkansen platform and the Keiyō line or the far exits.
Shinagawa品川駅use	Train	Tōkaidō Shinkansen (every train stops), Keikyu to Haneda, Yokosuka line to Kamakura	South-west of the loop · Shinagawa	Yamanote to Shibuya 12 min, to Tokyo 11 minBoard the Kyoto Shinkansen here if you stay on the west or south side: smaller and calmer than Tokyo Station.
Ueno上野駅use	Train	Tōhoku, Jōetsu and Hokuriku Shinkansen; Jōban line; Skyliner to Narita (Keisei Ueno, across the road)	North-east of the loop · Ueno	Ginza line to Ginza 10 minKeisei Ueno is a separate station: 3–5 min walk from the JR gates.
Shinjuku (JR, Odakyu, Keiō)新宿駅ok	Train	Odakyu Romancecar to Hakone; JR limited expresses to Matsumoto and Kawaguchiko (Fuji Excursion); Narita Express	West side of the loop · Shinjuku	Chūō rapid to Tokyo 15 minThe busiest station on earth: follow the exit letter and give yourself 10 minutes to cross it.
Asakusa (Tōbu)浅草駅（東武）use	Train	Tōbu limited expresses (Spacia X, Revaty) to Nikkō and Kinugawa	Inside the Matsuya building by the river · Asakusa	Ginza line from the next-door subway stationReserve Nikkō seats ahead on weekends and in autumn.
Ikebukuro池袋駅ok	Train	Seibu to Chichibu and Kawagoe; Tōbu Tōjō to Kawagoe; night buses	North-west of the loop · Ikebukuro	Marunouchi line to Tokyo 17 min
Busta Shinjukuバスタ新宿use	Bus	Highway buses to Kawaguchiko and Fuji, Kyoto and Osaka (night buses), Nagano, Takayama, Narita and Haneda	Above the JR tracks at Shinjuku's New South exit · Shinjuku	Inside Shinjuku stationFuji buses sell out in holidays: book online; board from the 4th floor.
Bus Terminal Tokyo Yaesuバスターミナル東京八重洲use	Bus	Airport buses, night buses to Kansai and the north, Disney shuttles	Across the road from Tokyo Station's Yaesu side, linked underground · Marunouchi	Walk 5 min to Tokyo StationSome operators still use kerbside stops on the Yaesu side: read the ticket for the bay.
Takeshiba Passenger Terminal竹芝客船ターミナルlimited	Ferry	Ferries and jetfoils to the Izu Islands and Ogasawara	Bayside, Minato · Hamamatsuchō	Yurikamome from Takeshiba, or walk 8 min to HamamatsuchōOgasawara ships sail about weekly and take a day each way.

Tickets on the Tōkaidō Shinkansen can be bought and reserved in the smartEX app or at purple machines by card; paper tickets must go through the gate with you.
Bags over 160 cm (length + width + height) need a seat with the oversized-baggage area on the Tōkaidō line: see the Japan policy above, or forward the bag.
Night buses from Busta Shinjuku to Kyoto and Osaka cost a fraction of the Shinkansen but arrive around 06:00 with no hotel yet.Night buses from Busta Shinjuku to Kyoto and Osaka cost a fraction of the Shinkansen but arrive around 6:00 AM with no hotel yet.

Move

The default way around, when a pass pays off, and when the last trains go.

Default: JR Yamanote + subway; walk inside a district; avoid the rush hours with bags.
Passes: A 24/48/72-hour subway pass pays with 4+ subway rides a day; JR lines are not included.
Last trains: Most last trains leave between 23:30 and 00:30; status unknown until verified per line.Most last trains leave between 11:30 PM and 12:30 AM; status unknown until verified per line.
Other modes: Other modes (Rome2Rio) ↗

Getting around, in detailGet around · Connect2 parts

Get around

Mode by mode, with the fares that matter

Trains and subway for everything, walking inside a district, taxis after midnight or with bags. Three rail systems (JR, Tokyo Metro, Toei) plus private lines share one IC card, so the only planning is the route and the exit.

Mode	Verdict	Fare	Use it for	What breaks
JR lines (Yamanote, Chūō)	use	¥150–210 (≈ US$2) inside the loop	Linking the big hubs: Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo, Ueno, Shinagawa	Contactless bank cards do not work on JR gates as of 2026 (check); use Suica or PASMO.
Subway (Tokyo Metro and Toei)	use	¥180–330 (≈ US$2–3); 24/48/72 h pass ¥1,000 (≈ US$7)/1,500 (≈ US$11)/2,000 (≈ US$14) (check)	Asakusa, Ginza, Roppongi, Tsukiji and everything inside the loop	Transfers between the two companies need the orange gate or the IC card to get the discount.
IC card (Suica/PASMO)	use	Deposit-free in phone wallets; ¥500 (≈ US$4) deposit on a plastic card	Every train, bus, locker and konbini	Tap in and out; top up at machines or in the wallet app.
Walking	use	Free	Inside a district; Ginza to Tokyo Station; Harajuku to Shibuya	Stations are often further apart underground than on the street: check the walk on the map.
Taxi	ok	¥500 (≈ US$4) flag fall; ¥2,300–2,900 (≈ US$16–20) for 5 km¥500 (≈ US$4) flag fall; ¥2,300–2,900 (≈ US$16–20) for 3.1 mi	Bags, groups of 3–4, after the last train	Rear left door opens itself; 20% night surcharge 22:00–05:00.Rear left door opens itself; 20% night surcharge 10:00 PM–5:00 AM.
City bus	limited	¥210 (≈ US$2) (Toei) or ¥220 (≈ US$2) flat	North–south hops the rail lines miss	Board at the front and pay on entry; English information is thin.
Bike share	ok	About ¥130–165 (≈ US$1–2) per 30 min (check)	Sunday rides along the palace moat and Sumida river	Docomo and Hello Cycling apps; riding on the pavement is common but give pedestrians way.
Water bus	ok	About ¥1,000–1,800 (≈ US$7–13) (check)	Asakusa to Hama-rikyū or Odaiba as a sightseeing ride	Slower than the train; boats stop in strong wind.
Rental car	avoid	Tolls ¥1,300 (≈ US$9)+ per expressway entry, parking ¥300–800 (≈ US$3–6) per 30 min	Only for trips out to the mountains	An International Driving Permit (1949 convention) is required.

Metro and rail lines

13 subway lines (9 Tokyo Metro, 4 Toei) plus JR. Each line has a letter and colour; each station a number (G-19 = Ginza line, Asakusa). Trains run about 05:00–00:30; the last train is earlier on some branches.13 subway lines (9 Tokyo Metro, 4 Toei) plus JR. Each line has a letter and colour; each station a number (G-19 = Ginza line, Asakusa). Trains run about 5:00 AM–12:30 AM; the last train is earlier on some branches.

JR Yamanote line (JY)

open

Loop of 30 stations, about 60 min all the way round, every 3–5 min

Tokyo — Shinkansen, the palace, Marunouchi
Akihabara — electronics and anime
Ueno — museums, park, Skyliner
Ikebukuro — north-west hub
Shinjuku — west-side hub, Hakone trains
Harajuku — Meiji Jingū, Takeshita-dōri
Shibuya — the crossing
Shinagawa — Keikyu to Haneda, Shinkansen

Two directions: inner loop (anticlockwise) and outer loop (clockwise); the screens say which.

JR Chūō line rapid (JC)

open

Tokyo → Ochanomizu → Shinjuku → Kichijōji → Takao; straight across the loop

Tokyo — start of the line, deep platform
Ochanomizu — Jinbōchō books, Kanda
Shinjuku — 15 min from Tokyo
Kichijōji — Inokashira Park, Ghibli Museum walk

Fastest Tokyo–Shinjuku link; packed at rush hour.

Ginza line (G)

open

Shibuya → Omotesandō → Ginza → Ueno → Asakusa

Shibuya — the crossing
Omotesandō — Harajuku's avenue
Ginza — department stores
Ueno — museums
Asakusa — Sensō-ji

The oldest line and the tourist spine: Shibuya to Asakusa in about 30 min without a change.

Marunouchi line (M)

open

Ikebukuro → Tokyo → Ginza → Shinjuku → Ogikubo (a U-shape)

Tokyo — Marunouchi side
Ginza — shopping
Shinjuku-gyoemmae — Shinjuku Gyoen
Shinjuku — west side

Useful for the Tokyo–Shinjuku trip when the Chūō line is crushed.

Hibiya line (H)

open

Naka-Meguro → Ebisu → Roppongi → Ginza → Tsukiji → Akihabara → Ueno

Ebisu — dinner and bars
Roppongi — art museums, nightlife
Tsukiji — outer market
Akihabara — electronics

Links the southern nightlife to Tsukiji and Ueno.

Hanzōmon and Fukutoshin lines (Z, F)

open

Hanzōmon: Shibuya → Omotesandō → Kiyosumi → Oshiage (Skytree). Fukutoshin: Shibuya → Shinjuku-sanchōme → Ikebukuro

Oshiage — Skytree (Hanzōmon)
Kiyosumi-shirakawa — coffee roasters, museum of contemporary art (Hanzōmon)
Shinjuku-sanchōme — east Shinjuku (Fukutoshin)

Both run through to Tōkyū lines, so the same train can reach Yokohama (Fukutoshin) or the suburbs.

Toei Asakusa line (A)

open

Through trains Haneda (via Keikyu) → Sengakuji → Nihonbashi → Asakusa → Narita (via Keisei)

Sengakuji — change for Keikyu to Haneda
Higashi-ginza — Kabukiza theatre
Asakusa — Sensō-ji (separate from the Ginza line station)

Some trains link both airports without a change (check the train).

Toei Ōedo line (E)

open

A loop with a tail: Shinjuku → Roppongi → Tsukiji-shijō → Ryōgoku → Ueno-okachimachi → Tochōmae

Tochōmae — the free observation deck
Roppongi — Roppongi Hills, Midtown
Tsukiji-shijō — outer market
Ryōgoku — sumo, Edo-Tokyo Museum

Very deep stations: add 3–5 min to reach the street.

Yurikamome

open

Shimbashi → Rainbow Bridge → Odaiba → Toyosu, driverless and elevated

Daiba — Gundam statue, beach walk
Telecom Center — Miraikan (walk)
Shijō-mae — Toyosu Market
Shin-toyosu — teamLab Planets

Separate fare (about ¥190–390 (≈ US$2–3), check); sit at the front for the bridge view.

City buses a visitor actually uses

Bus	Route	Useful for	Fare	Note
都01 (To-01)	Shibuya ↔ Roppongi Hills ↔ Toranomon ↔ Shimbashi	Shibuya to Roppongi without a train change	¥210 (≈ US$2)	(check)
Marunouchi Shuttle	Loop round Marunouchi, Ōtemachi and Yūrakuchō	Short hops round Tokyo Station	Free	Weekdays and weekends at different frequencies.(check)
Rainbow Bus	Shinagawa / Tamachi ↔ Odaiba over the Rainbow Bridge	A cheap bridge view to Odaiba	about ¥220 (≈ US$2)	(check)
Sky Hop Bus / Sky Bus	Open-top loops from the Marunouchi Building (Asakusa, Roppongi, Odaiba, palace)	A sightseeing overview	About ¥1,500–2,500 (≈ US$11–17) per ride or day (check)	(check)

Taxis and ride-hailing

app

The largest taxi app; licensed cabs; pay in-app with a card.

Uber

app

Hails licensed taxis and black cars; booking surcharge on top.

DiDi and S.RIDE

app

Other taxi apps with English interfaces.

Nihon Kōtsū and the big fleets

metered

Street hail: red 空車 sign means free. Meter always on; cards and IC accepted in most cars.

Airport fixed-fare taxis

airport

Flat fares by zone from Haneda and Narita; say 'teigaku' (fixed fare) before you set off.

On foot and car-free hours

Where	When	Note
Ginza Chūō-dōri (pedestrian paradise)	Sat–Sun and holidays, about 12:00–17:00 (to 18:00 Apr–Sep)Sat–Sun and holidays, about 12:00 PM–5:00 PM (to 6:00 PM Apr–Sep)	The main shopping street closes to cars; chairs appear in the road.(check)
Akihabara Chūō-dōri	Sundays about 13:00–17:00Sundays about 1:00 PM–5:00 PM	Car-free main street for crowds and shopping.(check)
Imperial Palace loop	Any time; runners at dawn and after work	About 5 km round the moats; lockers and showers at nearby 'runner stations'.About 3.1 mi round the moats; lockers and showers at nearby 'runner stations'.
Sumida riverside	Any time; best at dusk	Asakusa to Ryōgoku along the river walk, Skytree across the water.
Meguro River	Blossom week; evenings	Lanterns and food stalls along the canal; one-way walking in peak week.

Connect

SIM, data, apps

Option	Verdict	What breaks
Tourist eSIM installed before you fly	use	Data only; works the moment you land. Apps and messaging need no Japanese number.
Data SIM from an airport vending machine or counter	ok	Read the days and GB on the pack; check it works before leaving the terminal.
Pocket Wi-Fi router rented at the airport	ok	One unit for a group; carry a power bank and return it at the airport or by post.
Japanese voice SIM	avoid	Needs a residence card: not available to short-stay visitors.

Suica or PASMO in a phone wallet

Trains, buses, shops

Top up by card inside the wallet app. Welcome Suica Mobile is the visitor version (check your phone supports it).

Tap-to-ride contactless card

Tokyo Metro, Toei and private lines

A Visa or other contactless card works at marked gates on the subway; JR lines still need Suica or a ticket (check).

Taxis

Tokyo's main taxi app; fare paid in the app; a small booking fee.

Uber and DiDi

Taxis

Book licensed taxis, not private cars; a booking surcharge applies.

Google Maps

Routes, platforms, exits

Shows fares, the car to board and the exit number: follow the exit.

Tabelog, TableCheck, Omakase

Restaurant ratings and bookings

Popular sushi and kaiseki counters book out weeks ahead; many need a card to hold the seat.

Free Wi-Fi: Subway stations (Metro_Free_Wi-Fi, Toei_Subway_Free_Wi-Fi), convenience stores and many department stores; most need an email sign-up page.
Power: Charging points are rare on local trains but common on the Shinkansen and in cafés; carry a power bank (not in checked luggage).

Luggage

Where big bags are a problem, and how to get rid of them for the day.

Rule

Avoid moving large bags on trains 07:30–09:30 and 17:30–19:30; rush-hour cars are packed.

Lockers: Large coin lockers exist at all major stations and fill by late morning (status unknown).
Forwarding: Forward bags Tokyo → Kyoto the day before; airports also accept forwarded bags for departure.
Dead zone: Check-out to check-in with bags: leave them at the hotel desk; do not ride the Yamanote with them at 18:00.Check-out to check-in with bags: leave them at the hotel desk; do not ride the Yamanote with them at 6:00 PM.

Shinkansen with large bags →

See & do

Walking clusters, day plans and the places worth the time

Clusters

Walking polygons, not wards

Plan by cluster: each is a walkable area with a rescue point and a bag rule.

Asakusabags ok

Morning cluster: Sensō-ji before 08:30, Nakamise after it opens; flat, 2–3 hours; bags fine on the main streets.

rescue 93% · max p90 7′ · half

Shibuya / Harajukubags forbidden

Walk it one way: Meiji Jingū at opening, Harajuku mid-morning, Shibuya crossing by lunch; 2 km flat; bags forbidden at crowd peaks.

rescue 96% · max p90 7′ · half

Shinjuku (east)bags painful

Evening cluster: Omoide Yokochō and the east side after 18:00; never cross the station with bags at rush hour.

rescue 100% · max p90 7′ · 90m

Marunouchi / Ginzabags ok

Lunch and afternoon cluster: Tokyo Station, the palace East Gardens, Ginza; flat, covered, bags fine on weekdays.

rescue 97% · max p90 7′ · half

Days

Rendered from the graph

Ready-made day plans, timed against opening hours and walking distances.

Tokyo in 3 days3 daysOne district per half-day, one bed in Shinjuku; the last day ends at Shinagawa with bags off-peak.Tokyo in 4 days4 daysThree district mornings plus a fourth for Tsukiji and the palace gardens; one bed in Shinjuku; the last day ends at Shinagawa with bags off-peak.

Places

Curated — verdicts, not rankings

Each place gets a verdict and the time to be there, not a star rating.

Imperial Palace East Gardensgo admission: unknownFree gardens on the old castle grounds, a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station; check the closing days before you go.Meiji Jingūgo at hour at openinggate: unknownEnter at opening from the Harajuku gate; 45 minutes on gravel paths; the gates close at sunset, which moves every month.Nakamise-dōrigo at hour after 10:00, or at duskNo gateThe shop street to Sensō-ji: walk it after the shops open or at dusk; at 07:00 the shutters are down and it is just a corridor.Sensō-jigo at hour before 08:30No gateGo before 08:30 for the precinct without crowds; the grounds never close, the main hall and shops keep their own hours.Shibuya Crossinggo No gateCross it once, then watch it from above for five minutes; it is a spectacle of timing, best after dark.Shinjuku Gyoengo admission: unknownThe big quiet garden next to the busiest station: 60–90 minutes of lawns and blossom; alcohol and play equipment are banned.Takeshita-dōrigo at hour weekday before 11:00No gateA 350 m youth-fashion lane: a quick weekday-morning look after Meiji Jingū; skip it on weekend afternoons.

Tours, classes and shows in Tokyo →

Things to do in Tokyo: shows, nightlife and activities →

If you do ten things in Tokyo

Ranked · 2026 estimates

Ranked for a first visit of 3–5 days, one side of the Yamanote loop per half-day. Prices are 2026 estimates in yen.

1
Sensō-ji before the crowds
Tokyo's oldest temple with the lantern gate and incense; the grounds are open early and nearly empty before 08:00.Tokyo's oldest temple with the lantern gate and incense; the grounds are open early and nearly empty before 8:00 AM.
Time
1 h
Best
06:30–08:30, or lit up after dark
Cost
Free
2
Meiji Jingū
A forest walk to a cedar-and-copper shrine in the middle of Harajuku; weddings on weekend mornings.
Time
1–1.5 h
Best
Sunrise to 09:30
Cost
Free
3
Shibuya Crossing and a view from above
The scramble on the ground, then Shibuya Sky or a café window for the aerial view.
Time
1–2 h
Best
Dusk into night
Cost
Crossing free; Shibuya Sky about ¥2,500–3,500 (≈ US$17–25) (check)
4
Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market
Tamagoyaki, sushi counters and knife shops; the wholesale auction moved to Toyosu, the food stayed.
Time
1.5 h
Best
08:00–10:00; many stalls shut Sun, Wed and holidays
Cost
¥2,000–5,000 (≈ US$14–35)
5
Omoide Yokochō and Golden Gai after dark
Two lanes of tiny yakitori grills and bars by Shinjuku station; the postwar city in two hours.
Time
2–3 h
Best
18:00–22:00
Cost
¥3,000–7,000 (≈ US$25–50) including cover charges
6
Shinjuku Gyoen
Three garden styles and the best blossom and maple lawns in the centre; alcohol is banned, so it stays calm.
Time
1–2 h
Best
Late Mar–early Apr; mid-Nov–early Dec
Cost
¥500 (≈ US$4)
7
Free observation deck, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
45th-floor view to Fuji on clear winter days; no ticket, short queue.
Time
45 min
Best
Clear mornings Nov–Feb, or after dark
Cost
Free
8
teamLab Planets or Borderless
Walk-through digital art rooms; the rain-day and heat-day answer for all ages.
Time
2 h
Best
First slot of the day; book ahead
Cost
About ¥3,600–5,600 (≈ US$25–40) (check)
9
Imperial Palace East Gardens
Castle walls, the old keep base and seasonal gardens, a 5-min walk from Tokyo Station.
Time
1 h
Best
Morning; closed Mon and Fri
Cost
Free
10
A day out: Kamakura or Nikkō
The Great Buddha and Zen temples an hour south, or Nikkō's lacquered shrines two hours north.
Time
Full day
Best
Weekdays
Cost
¥2,000–6,000 (≈ US$14–45) in train fares

Itineraries by length

Short versions; the day planner has timed ones

Each day stays on one side of the city. The timed day plans handle opening days, rush hours and bags.

1 day

A layover or a first day off a morning flight

07:00Sensō-ji — Temple grounds before the shops open
08:30Nakamise-dōri — Nakamise stalls opening, then the Ginza line west
10:00Meiji Jingū — Forest walk to the shrine
11:30Harajuku Gyoza-rō — Takeshita-dōri and Omotesandō, gyoza lunch
15:00Shibuya Crossing — Walk south to the crossing; Shibuya Sky at dusk
19:00Omoide Yokochō — Yakitori under the tracks in Shinjuku

Skip: Tokyo Tower, Odaiba and anything that sends you back east.

2 days

The short Tokyo stop before Kyoto

Day 1 — east: Asakusa, Ueno, Akihabara

07:00Asakusa — Sensō-ji and Nakamise
10:00Tokyo National Museum or Ueno Park
13:00Ameyoko market lunch
15:00Akihabara electronics and retro games
18:00Daikokuya Tempura — Tempura in Asakusa

Day 2 — west: Harajuku, Shibuya, Shinjuku

08:00Meiji Jingū — Meiji Jingū
10:00Shibuya / Harajuku — Harajuku and Omotesandō
13:00Shinjuku Gyoen — Shinjuku Gyoen
17:00Free deck at the Metropolitan Government Building
19:00Omoide Yokochō — Omoide Yokochō, then Golden Gai

Skip: A Kamakura or Fuji day: it costs one of your two.

3 days

First visit with the palace, Ginza and Tsukiji

Days 1–2

As the 2-day outline.

Day 3 — centre: Tsukiji, palace, Ginza

08:00Tsukiji Outer Market — Breakfast counters
10:30Imperial Palace East Gardens — East Gardens (not Mon or Fri)
12:30Tokyo Ramen Street — Ramen under Tokyo Station
14:00Marunouchi / Ginza — Ginza department stores and the depachika food halls
18:00teamLab in Toyosu or an evening in Ebisu

Skip: Robot-style shows and kart tours through traffic.

Timed version: Tokyo in 3 days →

Good for…

Two or three concrete picks per traveller type

Verdict is how well Tokyo works for that traveller, not how nice it is.

First-timers

good fit

Safe, signed in English, trains on time; size is the only hurdle.

Sleep in Shinjuku or Ueno by airport — one line from the terminal to the bed.
Tokyo in 3 days — three days that never cross the city twice.
Suica in the phone wallet — no ticket machines after day one.

Food trips

good fit

More good food per block than anywhere; most of it under ¥2,000 (≈ US$14).

Tsukiji Outer Market — breakfast sushi, tamagoyaki and grilled scallops.
Fūunji (tsukemen) — tsukemen dipping noodles; the queue moves fast.
Department-store food halls (depachika) — bento, sweets and fruit in one basement; half price before closing.

Families with kids

good fit

Lifts, clean toilets with baby rooms, and low crime.

Ueno Zoo and the science museum — one park, two half days, pushchair-friendly.
teamLab — indoor, all ages, a rain-day save.
Ghibli Museum, Mitaka — tickets sell out a month ahead: book on release day (check).

Couples

good fit

Evening in Ebisu or Nakameguro — canal-side bars and small dinners away from crowds.
Hakone overnight in a ryokan — private onsen baths are bookable by the hour.
Night view from Roppongi Hills or Tokyo Tower — clear winter nights, less haze.

Solo travellers

good fit

Counter ramen and ticket-machine restaurants — eating alone is normal, fast and cheap.
Golden Gai bars — six seats, one host, easy conversation (cover charges apply).
Capsule hotels with women-only floors — clean, cheap beds near big stations.

Tight budgets

works

Beds are the cost; food and sights can be cheap.

Konbini breakfast — onigiri and coffee for ¥400–700 (≈ US$3–5).
Free decks and shrines — Metropolitan Government Building, Meiji Jingū and Sensō-ji cost nothing.
Stay in Ikebukuro or Ueno — better room prices than Shibuya or Ginza.

Luxury

good fit

Marunouchi and Ōtemachi hotels — palace views, quiet nights, Shinkansen on foot.
Omakase sushi counter — ¥25,000–50,000 (≈ US$170–350); book weeks ahead through the hotel concierge.
Private guide for Asakusa and Yanaka — the old city with someone who reads the signs.

Older travellers

good fit

Lifts and escalators everywhere; stations are long walks.

Imperial Palace East Gardens — flat paths and benches in the centre.
Hotels above big stations — no taxi, no stairs, luggage to the room.
Hato Bus half-day tour — the sights by coach with an English guide (check the schedule).

Wheelchair users

works

Among the best big cities in Asia for step-free travel; allow time.

Station staff with ramps — tell the gate; they phone ahead to your exit station.
Shinjuku Gyoen — paved paths and accessible toilets.
Universal taxis — ramp-equipped cabs; book through the taxi apps.

Neighbourhoods in one line

Feel, who it suits, when to go

One line per area. The districts table covers where to sleep; this is how each place feels.

Area	Feel	Suits	Go	Avoid
Asakusa	Old downtown: temple, rickshaws, craft shops	Temple mornings, families	Before 08:30 or after 18:00Before 8:30 AM or after 6:00 PM	Late-morning weekends on Nakamise.
Shibuya and Harajuku	Young, loud, fashion and screens	Shoppers, first night out	Weekday afternoons	Takeshita-dōri on Saturday afternoon.
Shinjuku west and south	Towers, hotels, department stores	Base for Haneda and day trips	Any time	Choosing a hotel by 'Shinjuku' without the exit name.
Kabukichō	Neon, host clubs, touts	A walk-through for the lights	Early evening	Following anyone who invites you into a bar.
Marunouchi and Ginza	Polished, quiet, brick station and flagship stores	Couples, older travellers, business	Weekend afternoons when Chūō-dōri closes to cars	Budget dining.
Yanaka and Nezu	Low wooden houses, temples, cats	A slow half day	Late morning to 16:00Late morning to 4:00 PM	Mondays and Tuesdays, when many shops close (check).
Shimokitazawa and Kōenji	Vintage clothes, live houses, tiny bars	Repeat visitors	Afternoon into evening	Mornings: nothing is open.
Roppongi	Art museums by day, clubs by night	Art, late dinners	Day for museums	Street touts at the main crossing at night.
Odaiba and Toyosu	Reclaimed bay land, malls, digital art	Kids, rainy days	Afternoon to sunset	Sleeping there.

Tours and classes: book or skip

Typical 2026 price bands per person

Prices per person, 2026 estimates. Tokyo is easy on your own; pay for access, language or transport, not for sights you can walk to.

Tour or class	Verdict	Typical price	Why	Check before paying
Evening food and bar tour (Shinjuku or Shibuya)	book	¥12,000–20,000 (≈ US$85–140)	Gets you into small bars that do not seat strangers; food included.	Number of stops, drinks included, group size under 10.
Sushi or ramen cooking class	maybe	¥8,000–15,000 (≈ US$55–110)	Fun on a rain day; the food is better in a good shop.	Hands-on or demo; whether you eat a full meal.
Tea ceremony	book	¥3,000–8,000 (≈ US$25–55)	Short, calm, explained in English; good with kids over eight.	Seated on tatami or chairs; length 45–60 min.
Mt Fuji and Kawaguchiko day bus tour	maybe	¥10,000–20,000 (≈ US$70–140)	Easier than doing the buses yourself, but clouds hide Fuji most summer days.	Refund if Fuji is not visible (rarely offered); pick a winter date.
Sumo morning practice visit	book	¥8,000–15,000 (≈ US$55–110)	Stables only admit visitors with an arranged guide; tournaments run Jan, May and Sep in Tokyo.	Silent-visit rules; photos without flash.
Street kart tour in costume	skip	¥10,000–20,000 (≈ US$70–140)	Rides in traffic at kart height; crashes and rule changes have ended several operators.	If you go: licence rules for the kart class and insurance cover.
Free volunteer guides (Tokyo SGG and others)	do it yourself	Free; pay the guide's tickets	Retired locals walk you through Asakusa or the palace.	Booking weeks ahead for weekends.
Hato Bus sightseeing coach	maybe	¥5,000–13,000 (≈ US$35–90)	Useful for older travellers or a jet-lagged day.	English guide or audio only.
Kabukichō bar invitations	skip	Unknown until the bill	Touts lead to bars with padded bills and reports of drink spiking.	Choose bars yourself; never follow a street invitation.

What each season brings

Month-by-month verdicts sit in When

Spring

Mar–May

Plum blossom in February, cherry blossom late March to early April (Ueno, Chidorigafuchi, Meguro River), azaleas and iris after.

Watch: Golden Week (late Apr–early May): full trains and hotels.

Summer

Jun–Aug

Hydrangeas in the rainy season, Sumida River fireworks (late July), bon-odori dances, beer gardens on rooftops.

Watch: Heat-stroke alerts from July; typhoon days.

Autumn

Sep–Nov

Ginkgo avenues turn gold in late November (Jingū Gaien), maples in Rikugien and Shinjuku Gyoen, sumo in September.

Watch: Early-autumn typhoons.

Winter

Dec–Feb

Clear skies, Fuji visible from the city, illuminations, the New Year shrine visit at Meiji Jingū.

Watch: Closures from 29 Dec to 3 Jan (museums, some restaurants).

Photo spots and the light

Best hour first

Clear-day times; haze in summer hides Fuji.

Spot	Best light	Tip
Sensō-ji	06:30–07:30, or blue hour	The lantern gate and five-storey pagoda without crowds; lit after dark too.
Shibuya Crossing	Blue hour, 17:00–19:00 in winter	Shibuya Sky or the upper floors of Magnet or the station for the overhead shot.
Metropolitan Government Building deck	Clear mornings Nov–Feb	Fuji to the west on the clearest days; free.
Chidorigafuchi moat	Morning in blossom week	Cherry trees over the palace moat; rowing boats if the queue allows.
Tokyo Tower from Shiba Park	Blue hour	Zōjō-ji temple roof in the foreground.
Jingū Gaien ginkgo avenue	Late Nov, morning	Two lines of gold trees; weekends are packed.
Omoide Yokochō	After dark	Lanterns and smoke; ask before photographing people at the counters.
Rainbow Bridge from Odaiba	Sunset into night	Walk the bridge's footpath in daylight (closes in the evening, check) or shoot from the beach.

Tokyo travel FAQ

Short answers; details in the sections above

Answers are 2026 desk estimates; fares and rules marked (check) change.

Is Tokyo safe at night?

Very safe by world standards. The real risks are bar touts in Kabukichō and Roppongi (padded bills, spiked drinks) and crowded trains; keep drinks in hand and choose bars yourself.

How do I get from Haneda to the city, and what does it cost?

Keikyu to Shinagawa is ¥330 (≈ US$3) in about 15–20 min, then JR onward; a limousine bus to Shinjuku hotels is about ¥1,300–1,500 (≈ US$9–11) (check). A taxi to Shinjuku is about ¥8,000–12,000 (≈ US$55–85).

How do I get from Narita to the city?

Skyliner to Ueno, ¥2,580 (≈ US$18) reserved, about 45 min; Narita Express to Tokyo or Shinjuku about ¥3,000–3,300 (≈ US$25) (check); airport buses from about ¥1,300 (≈ US$9). Taxis run ¥25,000 (≈ US$170)+.

Do I need cash in Tokyo?

Less than before: cards and IC cards work almost everywhere. Keep ¥5,000–10,000 (≈ US$35–70) for shrines, small restaurants and IC top-ups; withdraw at 7-Eleven or Japan Post ATMs.

Is tap water safe to drink?

Yes, everywhere in the city, including station fountains.

Is the JR Pass worth it for Tokyo?

No for Tokyo alone: city trips cost ¥180–400 (≈ US$2–3) each on an IC card. A nationwide pass pays only on long multi-region trips; check a fare calculator first.

Can visitors still get a Suica card?

Yes. Welcome Suica is sold at airport and major-station counters, and Suica or PASMO can be added to a phone wallet on many phones (check your model).

Should I tip?

No. Tips are not expected and are often returned; service is in the price.

What should I wear to temples and shrines?

No strict dress code at most, but remove hats in halls and shoes where there is a step up. Carry clean socks.

How many days do I need in Tokyo?

Three days for the main districts, four or five with a Kamakura, Nikkō or Hakone day trip.

Where should I stay?

Shinjuku for Haneda arrivals and day trips west, Ueno for Narita, Asakusa for quiet and value, Marunouchi or Ginza for comfort.

When is cherry blossom?

Usually the last week of March to the first week of April in Tokyo; the forecast is published from February and shifts by a week year to year.

What happens in an earthquake?

Buildings are designed for them. Stay inside away from windows, follow staff; phones get alerts in Japanese and English. Trains stop and restart after checks.

Can I smoke on the street?

Mostly not: many wards ban smoking while walking; use the marked smoking areas near stations.

Is English widely spoken?

Signs and trains are in English; conversation is limited outside hotels. A translation app and pointing at menus work fine.

How do I move big suitcases?

Forward them with a delivery counter (takkyūbin) at the airport or hotel, about ¥2,000–3,500 (≈ US$14–25) per bag, next-day delivery. Avoid rush hours with bags.

Are tattoos a problem?

Many public baths and gyms still refuse visible tattoos; hotel pools vary. Look for tattoo-friendly baths or cover small ones with patches.

More to see and doSee & do · Learn & work · Rain & heat3 parts

See & do

Place pages have the full plan; the rest are one-liners. Hours and prices are 2026 desk estimates.

District

37 of 37

Sensō-ji
Temples
Tokyo's oldest temple: go before 08:30 or after dark when it is lit.Tokyo's oldest temple: go before 8:30 AM or after dark when it is lit.
Asakusa · Grounds 24 h; hall about 06:00–17:00Grounds 24 h; hall about 6:00 AM–5:00 PM · Free
Meiji Jingū
Shrines
Forest shrine a few steps from Harajuku station; weddings on weekend mornings.
Harajuku · Sunrise to sunset · Free
Imperial Palace East Gardens
Gardens
Castle walls, the old keep base and seasonal gardens.
Marunouchi · About 09:00–16:00/17:00; closed Mon and FriAbout 9:00 AM–4:00 PM/5:00 PM; closed Mon and Fri · Free
Shinjuku Gyoen
Gardens
The best lawns for a picnic in the centre; greenhouse for rain.
Shinjuku · 09:00–16:00/17:30/18:30 by season; closed Mon9:00 AM–4:00 PM/5:30 PM/6:30 PM by season; closed Mon · ¥500 (≈ US$4)
Shibuya Crossing
Neighbourhoods
Cross it once, then watch from above.
Shibuya · Always · Free
Nakamise-dōri
Markets
The shop street to Sensō-ji: walk it after the shops open or at dusk; at 07:00 the shutters are down and it is just a corridor.The shop street to Sensō-ji: walk it after the shops open or at dusk; at 7:00 AM the shutters are down and it is just a corridor.
Asakusa · Shops about 09:00–19:00Shops about 9:00 AM–7:00 PM · Free
Takeshita-dōri
Neighbourhoods
A 350 m youth-fashion lane: a quick weekday-morning look after Meiji Jingū; skip it on weekend afternoons.
Harajuku · Shops about 10:00–20:00Shops about 10:00 AM–8:00 PM · Free
Tokyo National Museum東京国立博物館
Museums
Japan's largest collection: samurai armour, Buddhist sculpture, ukiyo-e. Two hours for the main building.
Ueno · 09:30–17:00; closed Mon9:30 AM–5:00 PM; closed Mon · about ¥1,000 (≈ US$7)(check)
National Museum of Nature and Science国立科学博物館
Museums
Dinosaurs, a Japanese-archipelago gallery and a rooftop herb garden.
Ueno · 09:00–17:00; closed Mon9:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Mon · about ¥630 (≈ US$5)(check)
Ueno Park
Lakes & parks
Museums, a lotus pond, shrines and the zoo in one park; blossom central.
Ueno · Always · Free
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observatories都庁展望室
Views
Free view from the 45th floor; Fuji on clear winter mornings.
Shinjuku · About 09:30–22:00; decks close on alternate days (check)About 9:30 AM–10:00 PM; decks close on alternate days (check) · Free(check)
Shibuya Sky
Views
Open-air roof over the crossing; book sunset slots early; closes in bad weather.
Shibuya · About 10:00–22:30About 10:00 AM–10:30 PM · ¥2,500–3,500 (≈ US$17–25) online(check)
Tokyo Skytree東京スカイツリー
Views
The tallest tower in Japan; the view is wide but distant.
Oshiage · About 10:00–21:00About 10:00 AM–9:00 PM · ¥2,100–3,500 (≈ US$15–25) by deck and day(check)
Tokyo Tower
Views
The 1958 red tower; closer to the city than Skytree.
Shiba · About 09:00–22:30About 9:00 AM–10:30 PM · ¥1,200–3,000 (≈ US$9–25) by deck(check)
Mori Art Museum and Tokyo City View
Museums
Contemporary art on the 53rd floor with the city view included.
Roppongi · About 10:00–22:00 (Tue to 17:00)About 10:00 AM–10:00 PM (Tue to 5:00 PM) · ¥2,000–2,500 (≈ US$14–17)(check)
teamLab Planets
Museums
Walk-through light rooms, some in shin-deep water; wear shorts or roll-up trousers.
Toyosu · About 09:00–22:00About 9:00 AM–10:00 PM · ¥3,800–4,500 (≈ US$30–35) timed(check)
Rikugien六義園
Gardens
Edo-period stroll garden; autumn leaves and weeping cherry lit up at night.
Komagome · 09:00–17:009:00 AM–5:00 PM · ¥300 (≈ US$3)(check)
Hama-rikyū Gardens浜離宮恩賜庭園
Gardens
Tidal pond and a tea house on the bay, with towers behind; water-bus stop.
Shiodome · 09:00–17:009:00 AM–5:00 PM · ¥300 (≈ US$3)(check)
Yanaka谷中
Neighbourhoods
Temples, wooden houses and a cemetery lane; walk from Nippori to Nezu.
Yanaka · Shops about 10:00–18:00Shops about 10:00 AM–6:00 PM · Free
Nezu Shrine根津神社
Shrines
Tunnel of red torii and an azalea hillside.
Yanaka · About 06:00–17:00About 6:00 AM–5:00 PM · Free (azalea garden small fee in April)
Zōjō-ji増上寺
Temples
Tokugawa family temple under Tokyo Tower; rows of small jizō statues.
Shiba · About 09:00–17:00About 9:00 AM–5:00 PM · Free
Akihabara
Neighbourhoods
Electronics towers, anime shops and retro games along Chūō-dōri.
Akihabara · Shops about 10:00–21:00Shops about 10:00 AM–9:00 PM · Free
Edo-Tokyo Museum江戸東京博物館
Museums
Full-size Nihonbashi bridge and models of Edo; reopening after renovation.
Ryōgoku · About 09:30–17:30; closed MonAbout 9:30 AM–5:30 PM; closed Mon · about ¥600 (≈ US$5)(check)
Ghibli Museum
Museums
Studio Ghibli's own museum in Inokashira Park; tickets go on sale a month ahead.
Mitaka · 10:00–18:00; closed Tue10:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Tue · ¥1,000 (≈ US$7) (dated tickets only)(check)
Miraikan
Museums
Science museum with robots and a giant globe; English labels.
Odaiba · 10:00–17:00; closed Tue10:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Tue · about ¥630 (≈ US$5)(check)
Grand Sumo tournament
Sport
Arrive after lunch for the top ranks; tickets on sale about a month ahead.
Ryōgoku · Jan, May, Sep; bouts about 08:30–18:00, top division from 15:45Jan, May, Sep; bouts about 8:30 AM–6:00 PM, top division from 3:45 PM · ¥3,800–20,000 (≈ US$30–140)+(check)
Sumo morning practice
Sport
Watch a stable train through a guided visit; silence and no flash.
Ryōgoku · Early morning, outside tournament weeks · Tour prices vary(check)
Baseball: Giants or Swallows
Sport
Tokyo Dome (Giants) or open-air Jingū Stadium (Swallows): the cheering sections are half the show.
Suidōbashi / Gaienmae · Evenings Apr–Sep · ¥2,000–6,000 (≈ US$14–45)(check)
Kabuki at Kabukiza
Shows & music
Buy a single-act ticket on the day for a one-hour taste; English audio guide.
Ginza · Matinee and evening programmes · Single act ¥1,000–2,000 (≈ US$7–14); full programme ¥5,000–20,000 (≈ US$35–140)(check)
Sumida River water bus
Active
Asakusa to Hama-rikyū or Odaiba under a dozen bridges.
Asakusa · About 10:00–17:00About 10:00 AM–5:00 PM · ¥1,000–1,800 (≈ US$7–13)(check)
Public bath (sentō)
Spa & massage
Neighbourhood bathhouses with painted Fuji murals; bring a small towel.
Any neighbourhood · About 15:00–24:00About 3:00 PM–12:00 AM · about ¥550 (≈ US$4) (Tokyo fixed price, check)(check)
Sushi or cooking class
Classes
Make and eat your own nigiri or ramen; book online.
Asakusa / Shinjuku · Morning or evening sessions · ¥8,000–15,000 (≈ US$55–110)
Tea ceremony
Classes
Forty minutes kneeling on tatami, whisking matcha and eating a sweet.
Asakusa / Ginza · Set sessions · ¥3,000–8,000 (≈ US$25–55)
Toyosu tuna auction viewing
Markets
Watch from the gallery above the floor; then breakfast in the market's sushi restaurants.
Toyosu · About 05:30–06:30; closed Sun, holidays and most WedAbout 5:30 AM–6:30 AM; closed Sun, holidays and most Wed · Free (lower deck by lottery)(check)
Karaoke
Night
Private rooms by the half hour; free-time plans for all night.
Shinjuku / Shibuya · Until morning · About ¥500–1,500 (≈ US$4–11) per person per 30 min(check)
Golden Gai bar hop
Night
Two or three tiny bars: pick the ones with prices on the door.
Shinjuku · From about 20:00From about 8:00 PM · Cover ¥500–1,500 (≈ US$4–11) plus drinks
Tokyo Disney Resort
Active
Two parks; buy dated tickets online and plan a whole day for each.
Maihama (Chiba) · About 09:00–21:00About 9:00 AM–9:00 PM · ¥7,900–10,900 (≈ US$55–75) by date(check)

Timed tickets: Shibuya Sky, teamLab, Ghibli, sumo and Disney all sell dated tickets online; the popular slots go days to weeks ahead.
Monday and Tuesday: Most museums close on Monday, and Miraikan and Ghibli on Tuesday: put shrines, streets and views on those days.

Learn & work

Courses, and what your visa allows

What	Where	Cost	Note
Japanese language school (long course)	Schools across Shinjuku, Takadanobaba and Shibuya	About ¥700,000–900,000 (≈ US$5,000–6,500) a year plus fees (check)	A year course needs a student visa sponsored by the school; apply months ahead.(check)
Short Japanese classes	Private schools with drop-in or weekly classes	About ¥2,500–4,000 (≈ US$17–30) an hour	Visitors can take short courses on a temporary-visitor stay; ask whether a class counts as 'study' for visa purposes.
Cooking and sushi classes	Asakusa, Shinjuku, Tsukiji	¥8,000–15,000 (≈ US$55–110) a session	See Do; many include a market walk.
Calligraphy, flower arranging, tea	Culture centres in Asakusa and Ginza; department-store culture schools	¥3,000–8,000 (≈ US$25–55) a session
Judo and other martial arts	Kōdōkan Judo Institute, Kasuga	Viewing from the gallery free; training needs a membership (check)	Watch evening practice from the spectator seats.(check)

Working here

Temporary visitor: Up to 90 days visa-free for many nationalities; no paid work of any kind, including remote work for a Japanese client.
Working holiday: Available to citizens of about 30 countries aged 18–30 (25 or 35 for some): one year, casual work allowed. Apply at the Japanese embassy at home.
Digital nomad visa: Six months for remote workers employed or contracted abroad with a high income threshold (about ¥10 (≈ under US$1) million a year) and private insurance (check current terms).
Teaching English: The usual route in: schools sponsor an Instructor or Specialist visa for degree holders. Contracts start in April and September.

Rain-day and heat-day plan

Swap the day, keep the bed

Rain day

Rain moves you underground and indoors: Tokyo Station's and Shinjuku's underground malls, department stores and the Ueno museums. Shrine gravel turns to mud and parks empty.

01Tokyo National Museum (Ueno) — Half a day indoors; closed Mondays.
02teamLab Planets (Toyosu) — Timed tickets; book ahead in bad weather because everyone else does.
03Marunouchi / Ginza — Tokyo Station's underground and Ginza's department stores connect with little outdoor walking.
04Tokyo Ramen Street — Lunch without going outside.
05Miraikan (Odaiba) — Science museum; closed Tuesdays.

Heat day

Above 32 °C (Jul–Sep): outdoors 06:30–10:00 and after 17:00, air-conditioned sights in between, a drink every hour. Heat-stroke alerts are announced on TV and in the Safety Tips app.

06:30Meiji Jingū — Opens around sunrise; shaded forest paths.
08:00Sensō-ji — Precinct is open; done before the heat and the crowds.
10:30Tokyo National Museum or a department store — Air-conditioned middle of the day.
12:30Tokyo Ramen Street — Underground lunch, then a hotel rest.
17:30Shibuya Crossing — After dark is the better view anyway.
19:00Omoide Yokochō — Evening yakitori once the pavement cools.

Day-trips from here

Kamakura

JR Yokosuka line, about 1 h

Full day

Great Buddha and temples; weekends crowded.

Nikko

Tobu limited express from Asakusa, about 2 h

Long full day

Start before 08:00; shrines close late afternoon.

Hakone

overnight

Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku, about 1.5 h

Full day or one night

Better with one ryokan night and bags forwarded.

Mt Fuji Five Lakes (Kawaguchiko)

Highway bus from Shinjuku, about 2 h

Full day

The mountain is often hidden by cloud; mornings are clearest.

Yokohama

JR or Tōkyū, about 30 min

Half day or evening

Chinatown, the waterfront and museums.

Go next

Door-to-door, not ride time

Kamakura

Door to door: About 1–1.5 h

JR Yokosuka line from Tokyo Station, or the Shōnan-Shinjuku line from Shinjuku

Great Buddha and hillside temples; weekdays, and go before 10:00 in hydrangea season (June).Great Buddha and hillside temples; weekdays, and go before 10:00 AM in hydrangea season (June).

Yokohama

Door to door: About 45 min

JR, Tōkyū Tōyoko or Keikyu lines, 25–35 min

Chinatown, the harbour and the Cup Noodles Museum; an easy half day or evening.

Nikkō

Door to door: 2.5–3 h

Tobu limited express from Asakusa (about 2 h), or Shinkansen to Utsunomiya plus the JR Nikkō line

Shrines close late afternoon: leave before 08:00, or stay one night to add Lake Chūzenji.Shrines close late afternoon: leave before 8:00 AM, or stay one night to add Lake Chūzenji.

Hakone

overnight

Door to door: 2–2.5 h to a ryokan

Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto, about 85 min; or Shinkansen to Odawara

The loop by train, cable car and boat takes a full day: sleep one night and forward the big bag.

Fuji Five Lakes (Kawaguchiko)

Door to door: 2–2.5 h

Highway bus from Busta Shinjuku, about 2 h; or the Fuji Excursion limited express from Shinjuku

Reserve the bus; the mountain is clearest early on winter mornings and hidden on many summer days.

Kyotogo

Door to door: 3–3.5 h hotel to hotel

Tōkaidō Shinkansen Nozomi from Tokyo or Shinagawa, about 2 h 15 min

Reserve seats in peak weeks, sit on the right (E seat) for Fuji going west, and forward big bags the day before.

Osakago

Door to door: 3–3.5 h

Shinkansen Nozomi to Shin-Osaka, about 2.5 h

Pair with Kyoto; fly out of KIX to avoid the ride back.

Eat & sleep

Where to eat and which area to sleep in

Eat

A short list of places worth crossing the city for, each with how to get a seat.

Asakusa Imahan (sukiyaki)Sukiyaki cooked at the table: reserve for dinner; the lunch sets are the easier way in.Daikokuya TempuraOld-style tendon (tempura rice bowl) near Sensō-ji: go at opening or after 14:00 to skip the queue.Fūunji (tsukemen)Dipping-noodle counter by Shinjuku south: queue 10–30 minutes, eat in 15; buy the ticket at the machine first.Harajuku Gyoza-rōCheap fried and boiled gyoza off Omotesandō: a fast counter lunch after Meiji Jingū; queues move quickly.Omoide YokochōTiny counter bars by the station: go at 17:00–18:30 for a seat; groups of 3+ rarely fit together; not for large bags.Tokyo Ramen StreetA row of ramen shops under Tokyo Station (Yaesu side): the no-think meal before or after a Shinkansen; ticket machines, quick turnover.Tsukiji Outer MarketMorning street-food and sushi counters: go 07:00–10:00; many stalls close by early afternoon and some days.

Restaurant finder: filter every place to eat in Tokyo →

Vegetarian-friendly score

1.5 / 5 · Hard work

Country diet noteOur country guide rates vegetarian eating as hard.0 / 2
Places to eat in this guide0 of 7 places with a known answer are vegetarian-friendly, 4 partly.0.43 / 1.5
Budget eating lines2 vegetarian lines in "Eat by budget".0.4 / 0.6
Meat-free national dishes3 meat-free dishes in the country food list.0.3 / 0.4
Dedicated vegetarian kitchens2 mentions of vegetarian restaurants, Buddhist or fasting kitchens.0.2 / 0.5

Country note: Hard. Dashi (fish stock) is in soups, sauces and even vegetable dishes, and staff may not count it as meat.

Vegetarian places near me →Make a diet card →

How we score

Country diet note (up to 2): easy 2, workable 1, mixed 0.75, hard 0; no note 0.5.
City places to eat (up to 1.5): 1.5 × (vegetarian-friendly + half of partly friendly) ÷ places with a known answer; needs 3 or more known places.
Budget eating lines marked vegetarian (up to 0.6): 0.2 each.
Meat-free national dishes (up to 0.4): 0.1 each.
Dedicated vegetarian kitchens mentioned — Buddhist chay, shōjin ryōri, Jain, fasting food, vegan cafés (up to 0.5): 0.1 each.
Total rounded to the nearest half point, 0 to 5. Built from our own pages only, not from reviews.

Eating and drinking guideEat by budget · Drink2 parts

Eat by budget

Per person, one meal, 2026 estimate. Popular places queue; check hours the day before.

Under ¥1,500 (≈ US$11) a meal

Where	Order	Area	Price	Note
Fūunji (tsukemen)	Tsukemen	Shinjuku south	¥1,000–1,400 (≈ US$7–10)	Queue 10–30 min at lunch.
Harajuku Gyoza-rō	Gyoza	Harajuku	¥800–1,500 (≈ US$6–11)	Fast lunch after Meiji Jingū.
Tokyo Ramen Street	Ramen and tsukemen	Tokyo Station Yaesu	¥1,000–1,600 (≈ US$7–11)	Eight shops under one roof.
Gyūdon chains (Matsuya, Yoshinoya, Sukiya)	Beef bowl, curry, breakfast sets	Every station	¥450–900 (≈ US$4–7)	Open 24 h; order at a touchscreen.
Standing soba and udon shops	Soba with tempura or egg	Station platforms and concourses	¥400–700 (≈ US$3–5)	Ticket machine, eat in five minutes.
Conveyor-belt sushi (Sushiro, Kura, Hama)	Sushi by the plate	Shibuya, Ikebukuro, Ueno	¥1,200–2,500 (≈ US$9–17)	Tablet ordering in English; plate colours show the price.
Convenience stores and depachika	Onigiri, bento, sandwiches	Everywhere	¥300–900 (≈ US$3–7)	Microwave on request; eat in the store's seats or a park.
T's TanTanveg	Vegan ramen	Tokyo Station, inside the Keiyō Street gates	¥1,000–1,500 (≈ US$7–11)	Needs a platform ticket if you are not travelling.(check)

Dishes to know

Dish	What it is	Where to look	When	Price
Edomae sushi江戸前寿司	Nigiri as Tokyo invented it: fish cured, marinated or simmered before it meets the rice	Ginza counters, Tsukiji, conveyor-belt chains	Lunch and dinner	¥1,200–50,000 (≈ US$9–350)
Tempura天ぷら	Seafood and vegetables in thin batter; Tokyo style uses sesame oil and a darker sauce	Asakusa, Ginza, Shinjuku	Lunch sets	¥1,500–35,000 (≈ US$11–250)
Soba蕎麦	Buckwheat noodles, cold with dipping sauce or in hot broth	Kanda old shops; station stands	Lunch	¥500–2,000 (≈ US$4–14)
Unagi鰻	Grilled eel glazed with sweet soy over rice	Asakusa, Nihonbashi, Ueno	Summer tradition (Day of the Ox)	¥3,500–7,000 (≈ US$25–50)
Tokyo ramen東京ラーメン	Clear soy-based chicken broth, curly noodles, bamboo shoots	Ogikubo, Ebisu, station basements	Any time	¥900–1,400 (≈ US$7–10)
Tsukemenつけ麺	Thick noodles dipped into a dense hot broth	Shinjuku, Tokyo Station, Ikebukuro	Any time	¥1,000–1,500 (≈ US$7–11)
Monjayakiもんじゃ焼き	Runny cabbage-and-batter pancake scraped off the griddle with small spatulas	Tsukishima Monja Street	Evening	¥1,500–3,000 (≈ US$11–25)
Chanko-nabeちゃんこ鍋	Sumo wrestlers' hotpot of chicken, fish and vegetables	Ryōgoku	Dinner, winter best	¥3,000–6,000 (≈ US$25–45)
Tonkatsuとんかつ	Breaded pork cutlet with cabbage and sauce	Meguro, Ueno, Ginza	Lunch	¥1,500–3,500 (≈ US$11–25)
Yakitori焼き鳥	Charcoal-grilled chicken skewers, salted or with sauce	Omoide Yokochō, Yūrakuchō under the tracks	Evening	¥150–400 (≈ US$2–3) a skewer
Odenおでん	Fish cakes, radish and eggs simmered in dashi	Convenience-store counters, Ginza oden bars	Autumn and winter	¥100–300 (≈ US$1–3) a piece
Ningyō-yaki and taiyaki	Small cakes filled with red-bean paste, shaped as dolls or fish	Asakusa, Ningyōchō, Azabu-Jūban	Afternoon	¥150–800 (≈ US$2–6)

Restaurants with a ticket machine by the door want you to buy the ticket before you sit.
Queues are part of the meal: join the end and wait; staff will seat you by group size.
Many small restaurants are still cash only; the sign at the till shows the cards they take.
Tell the staff about allergies in writing; soy sauce contains wheat and dashi contains fish almost everywhere.

Drink & nightlife

What closes, what stays open

Closing time: There is no citywide closing time: izakaya run to about 23:00–24:00, many bars and clubs until the first train around 05:00. The real deadline is the last train, roughly 00:00–00:30 depending on the line, after which a taxi across the city costs ¥5,000–10,000 with the 20% night surcharge (2026 estimate).

Where	What	Until	Note
Golden Gai (Shinjuku east)	About 200 tiny bars in six alleys	From about 20:00 to lateFrom about 8:00 PM to late	Most charge a seat or cover of about ¥500–1,500 (≈ US$4–11) (2026 estimate); the price is often posted on the door.
Omoide Yokochō (Shinjuku west)	Yakitori counters and beer	About 23:00–24:00About 11:00 PM–12:00 AM	Early evening for a seat; cash in most stalls.
Shinjuku Ni-chōme	LGBTQ+ bars and clubs, many open to everyone	Late, peaks after 23:00Late, peaks after 11:00 PM	Some bars are members-only or men-only: check the sign.
Shibuya: Dōgenzaka, Nonbei Yokochō, Center-gai	Clubs, small bars, chain izakaya	Clubs until the first train	Street drinking around Shibuya station is restricted at night (check the current ordinance).
Ebisu and Nakameguro	Standing bars, craft beer, cocktail rooms	About 24:00–02:00About 12:00 AM–2:00 AM	The calmer, locals' night out one stop from Shibuya.
Ueno Ameyoko	Street-side standing bars under the tracks	About 23:00About 11:00 PM	Starts in the afternoon; the cheapest beer in the centre.
Roppongi	Clubs, foreign-run bars, hostess clubs	Until morning	Choose bars yourself, never through a tout, and watch your drink.
Shimokitazawa and Kōenji	Live houses, record bars	Shows end about 22:00; bars run laterShows end about 10:00 PM; bars run later	Tickets at the door; a drink charge of about ¥600–800 (≈ US$5–6) on top is standard.

By style

Style	What	Where	Price	Until
Izakaya	Japanese pub with small plates; chain or family-runAll-you-can-drink plans (nomihōdai) run 90–120 min for groups.	Around every station; Ebisu, Yūrakuchō, Shinjuku	¥3,000–5,000 (≈ US$25–35) an evening	About 23:00–24:00
Standing bar (tachinomi)	Cheap drinks and snacks at a counter, no seatsCash on delivery at many: pay as each drink arrives.	Ueno Ameyoko, Shimbashi, Akabane	¥400–600 (≈ US$3–5) a drink	About 23:00
Alley bars (yokochō)	Rows of tiny counters seating 6–10Groups of 3+ rarely fit together.	Omoide Yokochō, Golden Gai, Nonbei Yokochō, Ebisu Yokochō	¥700–1,200 (≈ US$5–9) a drink plus a seat charge	Late
Craft beer	Japanese and imported craft on tapGlass sizes vary: check the millilitres.	Ryōgoku (Popeye), Shibuya, Kanda	¥900–1,400 (≈ US$7–10) a glass	About 23:00–24:00
Sake and shōchū bars	Tasting flights of regional sake	Ginza, Nihonbashi, Kagurazaka	¥1,500–3,000 (≈ US$11–25) a flight	About 23:00
Cocktail bars	Precise Japanese-style cocktails, often a cover chargeCover of ¥1,000–2,000 (≈ US$7–14) is common; ask first.	Ginza, Nishi-Azabu, Shibuya	¥1,800–3,000 (≈ US$13–25) a drink	About 01:00–02:00
Hotel sky bars	Views over the city from the 40th floor upEvening cover charges and a dress code at some (check).	West Shinjuku, Roppongi, Marunouchi towers	¥2,500–4,000 (≈ US$17–30) a drink	About 24:00
Clubs and live houses	DJs, indie bands, jazzID required at clubs.	Shibuya, Roppongi, Shimokitazawa, Kōenji	¥2,000–5,000 (≈ US$14–35) entry with drink tickets	Until the first train
Kissaten (old coffee houses)	Hand-drip coffee and toast in 1960s roomsSome still allow smoking: check the door sign.	Jinbōchō, Ginza, Asakusa, Shinjuku	¥600–1,000 (≈ US$5–7) a cup	About 19:00–22:00

Rules that bite

Legal drinking age is 20; ID checks at clubs are strict, so carry your passport.
Izakaya put a small starter (otōshi) on the bill for each person, usually ¥300–800 (≈ US$3–6) (2026 estimate): it is a table charge, not an error.
Keep your card in sight and pay per round in Kabukichō and Roppongi; card-skimming and inflated late-night bills are the reported pattern there.
Zero tolerance on drink-driving, including bicycles.

Sleep

Areas, not hotels

Pick the area first: it decides your walk home at night and your first morning.

Shinjuku (south/west)Desk: staffed 24hHND arrivals and night owls: one transfer from Haneda, big 24h hotels, but pick the south or west side — not above Kabukichō.UenoDesk: staffed 24hNRT arrivals and museum days: the Skyliner stops here, Asakusa is one stop away, rooms cost less.

Which neighborhood fits you

Three questions, one recommendation, with the reasons.

Your best fit

Ueno

Museums and the park on foot, Asakusa one stop, Akihabara two.
Better value per square metre than Shinjuku or Ginza.
Quieter than the west side once Ameyoko shuts.

Next best: Asakusa · Shinjuku (south/west)

Built from our 1–5 desk scores per area; your answers stay in this browser.

More on sleepingSleep by budget · Your area · With kids3 parts

Sleep by budget

Per room per night in yen, 2026 estimate; blossom weeks, Golden Week and New Year add 30–80%.

Band	Price	Where	Room types	What to expect
budget	¥3,500–7,000 (≈ US$25–50) dorm bed or capsule · ¥9,000–14,000 (≈ US$65–95) double	Asakusa, Ueno, Kuramae, Ikebukuro	Hostels, capsule hotels, small inns	Shared bathrooms, lockers not rooms, some door curfews around 23:00, and capsules that are often one-gender floors.Shared bathrooms, lockers not rooms, some door curfews around 11:00 PM, and capsules that are often one-gender floors.
mid	¥15,000–35,000 (≈ US$110–250)	Shinjuku, Ueno, Shinagawa, Ginza fringes	Business hotels and 3–4 star chains	Compact but spotless rooms (12–18 m²), a 24-hour desk, often a coin laundry and sometimes a public bath.
splurge	¥60,000–150,000 (≈ US$450–1,100)+	Marunouchi, Ōtemachi, Roppongi, West Shinjuku towers	International luxury hotels, the classic 'three great houses', ryokan-style city hotels	Big rooms on high floors, English-speaking concierge, club lounges; book the palace or Fuji view explicitly.

Booking checks

Look up the walk from the nearest station exit, not the station name: 'Shinjuku' hotels range from 2 to 20 minutes out.
Check the bed width: Japanese 'semi-double' beds are about 120 cm, tight for two.
'Tokyo Bay' in a hotel name can mean Odaiba or Chiba, 30–60 min from the sights.
Love hotels in Shibuya or Uguisudani can be cheap for a full night ('stay', not 'rest'), but some refuse walk-ins who do not read Japanese.

Which area is yours

Tick priorities; areas re-rank

If you are	Sleep in	Because
First visit via Haneda, 3–5 nights	Shinjuku (south/west)	One change from the airport, 24-hour hotels, the west-side sights and the evening bars on foot.
Landing at Narita, museums, families	Ueno	Skyliner terminus, flat walk to the hotel, zoo and museums next door.
Shinkansen onward, light sleepers	Tokyo Station / Ginza	Trains under the hotel and silent nights; pay more for it.
Tight budget, early risers	Asakusa	Cheapest central beds and Sensō-ji before the crowds; accept the long ride west.
Very late or very early Haneda flight	Shinagawa	Twenty minutes to the terminal on Keikyu.

What matters on this trip? Tick any.

01Shinjuku (south/west)
HND arrivals and night owls: one transfer from Haneda, big 24h hotels, but pick the south or west side — not above Kabukichō.
02Ueno
NRT arrivals and museum days: the Skyliner stops here, Asakusa is one stop away, rooms cost less.
03Tokyo Station / Ginza
Shinkansen, airport buses and the Narita Express stop under the hotels.
04Asakusa
Some Narita and Haneda trains run straight through on the Toei Asakusa line (check the service), but station exits have long stairs.
05Shibuya
Construction and packed exits around the station make luggage hard.
06Shinagawa
Keikyu from Haneda arrives here, and so does the Shinkansen; big hotels across the road.

Areas are in our default order until you tick a priority.

Scores are 1–5 desk judgements per priority (2026). Only Shinjuku and Ueno have sleep-area pages; the others link to the districts table.

With kids

Stations have lifts and every department store has a baby room with changing tables and a nursing corner; stroller users should still avoid 07:30–09:30 and 17:30–19:30 trains.Stations have lifts and every department store has a baby room with changing tables and a nursing corner; stroller users should still avoid 7:30 AM–9:30 AM and 5:30 PM–7:30 PM trains.
Children under 6 ride trains free; ages 6–11 pay half fare on a child IC card or ticket.
Rain or heat: the National Museum of Nature and Science (Ueno, closed Mondays), Miraikan in Odaiba (closed Tuesdays) and teamLab Planets in Toyosu are indoor half days.
Ueno Zoo (closed Mondays) and the playgrounds in Yoyogi and Ueno parks work for small children; Showa Kinen Park in Tachikawa is the big day out.
Tokyo Disney Resort is in Maihama, Chiba: about 20 min on the JR Keiyō line from Tokyo Station. Buy dated tickets online in advance.
Taxis are not required to carry child seats and most do not; bring a travel booster if you plan taxi rides.

Practical

Money, essentials, safety and the pocket card

Money

What a day costs at three comfort levels, and how to pay.

Budget: 8,000–12,000 (≈ US$55–85) excl. bed / day
Mid: 12,000–22,000 (≈ US$85–150) excl. bed / day
High: 22,000 (≈ US$150)+ excl. bed / day
Transit card: Suica/PASMO on every train, subway, bus and in most shops; add it to a phone wallet where supported.
Cash rule: Tokyo is mostly cashless; keep ¥5,000 (≈ US$35) for shrines, small restaurants and IC top-ups.

More on moneyCosts · Budget · Buy3 parts

What things cost

Desk estimates (2026), yen; check locally

Coffee in a café¥450–800 (≈ US$4–6)
Ramen or set lunch¥1,000–2,000 (≈ US$7–14)
Sushi counter dinner, mid-range, per person¥5,000–15,000 (≈ US$35–110)
Convenience-store breakfast¥400–800 (≈ US$3–6)
Subway or JR ride in the centre¥180–350 (≈ US$2–3)
Keikyu HND–Shinagawa¥330 (≈ US$3)
Skyliner NRT–Ueno¥2,580 (≈ US$18)
Taxi across a few districts¥2,000–4,000 (≈ US$14–30)
Museum or garden admission¥300–2,000 (≈ US$3–14)
Mid-range hotel room, per night¥15,000–35,000 (≈ US$110–250)

Trip budget

2026 estimate · converts to your currency

NightsTravellersSpending bandBed

Hotel double room1 × 4 nights × ¥25,000	¥100,000
Food, local transport, entries2 × 4 days × ¥16,000	¥128,000
Haneda Keikyu, both ways2 × ¥700 · Narita by Skyliner is about ¥5,200 both ways	¥1,400
Tokyo accommodation tax8 × ¥200 · ¥100–200 by room rate; Tokyo plans a change to a percentage rate — check	¥1,600
eSIM, about a week of data2 × ¥2,500	¥5,000
Buffer 10%Price creep, a taxi you did not plan, one splurge	¥23,600
Trip total≈ ¥32,450 per person per day, bed included	¥259,600≈ US$1,800

2026 estimate in yen; flights and rail passes excluded. Your choices stay in this browser.

Prices of common things

Coffee: café / convenience store	¥450–800 (≈ US$4–6) / ¥120–250 (≈ US$1–2)
Bowl of ramen	¥1,000–1,600 (≈ US$7–11)
Beer: draught in an izakaya / can at a konbini	¥550–850 (≈ US$4–6) / ¥230–330 (≈ US$2–3)
5 km taxiFlag fall ¥500; 20% night surcharge 22:00–05:00.Flag fall ¥500; 20% night surcharge 10:00 PM–5:00 AM.	¥2,300–2,900 (≈ US$16–20)
Subway or JR ride in the centreIC card fares are a few yen lower than paper tickets.	¥150–330 (≈ US$2–3)
Tokyo Subway Ticket, 24 / 48 / 72 hMetro and Toei only, not JR; 2026 prices — check.	¥1,000 (≈ US$7) / ¥1,500 (≈ US$11) / ¥2,000 (≈ US$14)
eSIM or data SIM, about a week	¥2,000–4,000 (≈ US$14–30)
Museum or garden entry	¥500–1,500 (≈ US$4–11)

2026 estimate; check locally.

Buy

Markets, bargaining, cash

Bargaining: Prices are fixed in shops, markets and restaurants; asking for a discount confuses more than it saves. The exceptions are flea and antique markets and some Ameyoko stalls near closing time, where a polite request on several items can work.
Fixed-price check: Tax-free shopping needs your passport and a spend of ¥5,000 (≈ US$35)+ in one shop on one day. Japan is switching to a refund model from 1 November 2026 (you pay tax at the till and claim it back at departure after customs sees the goods): keep receipts and goods unopened, and check the current rule before you shop.

Markets and shopping streets

Where	What	When	Haggle	Note
Ameya-Yokochō (Ameyoko), Ueno	Dried food, snacks, cosmetics, cheap clothes, standing bars	About 10:00–20:00About 10:00 AM–8:00 PM	light	The one market street where a closing-time discount on several items is sometimes offered.
Nakamise-dōri, Asakusa	Souvenir snacks, fans, toys	About 09:00/10:00–19:00About 9:00 AM/10:00 AM–7:00 PM	no	Compare with the side streets behind it, which are calmer and often cheaper.
Kappabashi Dōgu-gai	Knives, kitchenware, plastic food models	Shop hours; many shops shut on Sundays (check)	no	Knife shops engrave names and pack knives for checked luggage; knives cannot go in the cabin.
Akihabara	Electronics, anime goods, retro games	About 10:00–21:00About 10:00 AM–9:00 PM	no	Check the voltage and region lock before buying; tax-free counters need the passport.
Department-store food halls (depachika)	Boxed sweets, bento, tea	Store hours, to about 20:00Store hours, to about 8:00 PM	no	Discount stickers on fresh food after about 19:00.Discount stickers on fresh food after about 7:00 PM.
Ōi Racecourse and shrine flea markets (Hanazono, Tomioka Hachimangū)	Antiques, used kimono, bric-a-brac	Set weekend dates; rain cancels (check)	light	Cash; go early for the best stalls.
Don Quijote (Shibuya, Shinjuku, Asakusa)	Snacks, cosmetics, souvenirs, everything	Many branches 24 h	no	Tax-free counter on site; the late-night shop when everything else is shut.

Shops by what they sell

For	Where	Hours	Note
Electronics and cameras	Akihabara (Yodobashi, Bic Camera), Shinjuku west exit, Yūrakuchō	About 09:30–22:00	Big chains give tax-free at a separate counter; check plugs and region settings.
Anime, manga, figures	Akihabara, Nakano Broadway, Ikebukuro Otome Road	About 11:00–20:00	Used shops (Mandarake, Surugaya) are cheaper than new; prices are fixed.
Fashion, street and vintage	Harajuku (Takeshita, Cat Street), Shibuya, Shimokitazawa, Kōenji	About 11:00–20:00	Japanese sizes run small; try before you buy.
Department stores	Ginza (Mitsukoshi, Matsuya), Shinjuku (Isetan, Takashimaya), Nihonbashi, Ikebukuro	About 10:00–20:00	Tax-free counter on one floor; food halls in the basement.
Kitchen knives and ceramics	Kappabashi, Nihonbashi knife shops	About 10:00–17:30; many closed Sun	Knives must go in checked luggage.
Books and prints	Jinbōchō used-book district; Tsutaya Daikanyama and Ginza Six	About 10:00–19:00	Some Jinbōchō shops sell old woodblock prints and maps.
Everything, late	Don Quijote branches; 100-yen shops (Daiso, Seria)	Don Quijote often 24 h	Cheapest souvenirs, snacks and travel kit.
Drugstore beauty and medicines	Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Welcia, Sundrug near every station	About 09:00–22:00	Tax-free on ¥5,000 (≈ US$35)+ of consumables, sealed until you leave (check the 2026 rule).

Changing money

Where	Verdict	Why
7-Eleven and Japan Post ATMs	use	Accept foreign cards and pay out yen at a fair network rate; the easiest way to get cash.
Airport exchange counters (HND, NRT)	ok	Fine for the first ¥10,000–20,000 (≈ US$70–140) if you arrive with cash.
Exchange shops in Ginza, Ueno and Shinjuku	ok	Compare the posted buy rate; good for large cash amounts.
Bank branches	caution	Few do foreign exchange, weekday office hours only, and paperwork takes time.
Hotel front desk	caution	Honest but limited amounts and currencies; a weaker rate than the ATM.

ATMs

Which machines: 7-Eleven, Japan Post and many Lawson and FamilyMart ATMs take foreign cards; some bank ATMs do not. The 7-Eleven screen has English.
Per withdrawal: The limit is set by the machine and your card, usually ¥50,000–100,000 (≈ US$350–700) (2026 estimate); the machine tells you.
Fees: A local fee of about ¥110–330 (≈ US$1–3) per withdrawal (2026 estimate, shown on screen) plus your bank's fee: withdraw fewer, larger amounts.
Home-currency offer: If the ATM or a shop terminal offers to charge in your own currency, refuse and pay in yen.

Essentials and accessEssentials · Access2 parts

Essentials

Paying: Cards, phone wallets and IC cards work in most shops, stations and chains; carry cash for temples, shrines, small restaurants, markets and goshuin stamps. Convenience-store ATMs take foreign cards.
Tipping: Not practised — leaving money can cause confusion. Service is included.
SIM & data: Install an eSIM before you fly, or rent pocket Wi-Fi or buy a data SIM at the airport.
Plugs & power: 100 V; type A sockets (two flat pins, often without the earth pin). Most phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage; bring a plug adapter.
Drinking water: Tap water is safe to drink everywhere.
Toilets: Free and clean in stations, convenience stores, department stores and most temples.
Opening hours: Temples and museums open early and close in the late afternoon (varies by season — check each). Shops roughly 10:00–20:00; convenience stores 24 h.Temples and museums open early and close in the late afternoon (varies by season — check each). Shops roughly 10:00 AM–8:00 PM; convenience stores 24 h.
Health: Heat stroke in July–September; drugstores are common for basics; travel insurance with medical cover.
Accessibility: Stations and subways have elevators; temples, stone lanes and gravel paths are harder — check each place page for steps.
Laundry: Coin laundries are common; many hotels have washer-dryers on a floor.
Emergency numbers: 110 police, 119 fire and ambulance.

Pack

Slip-on shoes and clean socks (shoes come off in temples, some restaurants and ryokan)
A coin purse — change piles up fast
A small towel or handkerchief (many washrooms have no paper towels)
A small bag for your rubbish (public bins are rare)

Accessibility

Pavements, lifts, step-free sights

Tokyo is one of the easier big cities on wheels: almost all stations have a step-free route, trains have wheelchair spaces and staff bring a ramp. The hard parts are the size of the big stations, rush-hour crowds, gravel shrine paths and small restaurants up a flight of stairs.

Stations: Over 90% of stations have a lift route from street to platform, but in big hubs the lift can be at a different exit: check the station map and allow 10–15 extra minutes.
Boarding: Tell the staff at the gate where you are going: they bring a ramp and phone ahead so someone meets you at the other end.
Taxis: Most new taxis are the high-roof JPN Taxi model with a fold-out ramp; drivers vary in practice, so book one through the app or the hotel.
Toilets: Multi-purpose toilets in every major station, department store and many convenience stores.
Restaurants: Small places are often up or down stairs: department-store restaurant floors and hotel restaurants are the reliable step-free options.
Pavements: Wide, level and with tactile paving in the centre; old lanes in Yanaka and backstreets have no pavement.

Sights, step-free or not

Shinjuku Gyoen	step-free	Paved main paths; wheelchairs to borrow at the gates (check).
Shibuya Crossing	step-free	Level and signalled; very dense at peaks.
Nakamise-dōri	step-free	Level paved street; slow going at midday.
Sensō-ji	with help	Level precinct; the main hall is up a flight of steps (ask about the side access, check).
Imperial Palace East Gardens	with help	Gravel and a slope up to the former keep base.
Meiji Jingū	with help	Wide but long gravel approach; about 10 min to the main hall.
Takeshita-dōri	with help	Level, but shoulder-to-shoulder on weekends.

Survive

Safety basics, the lines not to cross, and practical habits that save the day.

Safety

Heat (Jul–Sep): plan an air-conditioned stop every 90 minutes.
Earthquake: follow staff instructions; hotel rooms list evacuation routes. Official alerts only.
Emergency: 110 police, 119 fire/ambulance.

Red lines

No phone calls on trains; set phones to silent.
Queue in marked lines on platforms.
Kabukichō touts: do not follow anyone into a bar.

Practical

Toilets: stations, department stores, convenience stores; many are free and clean.
Tax-free shopping needs your passport at the counter.

NearbyKanto day-trips Kyoto (2h15 by Shinkansen)

Scams and red flags

Walk away if you see these

Kabukichō and Roppongi touts: bars with unposted prices can charge thousands in cover and drinks — do not follow anyone inside.
People in monk robes selling charms near Sensō-ji are not affiliated with the temple.

More on staying safeStay safe · Stay healthy · Safety map · Solo & women · Etiquette · Cope6 parts

Stay safe

Traffic, hustles, police

Hustles specific to this city

Hustle	Where	The tell	What to do
Bar tout ('bottakuri' bar)	Kabukichō, Roppongi, Ikebukuro, Ueno-Yushima	Someone on the street offers a cheap drink, a show or 'all you can drink' and walks you to a building upstairs.	Never follow a tout; street touting is illegal. If the bill is outrageous, call 110 and do not hand over your card.
Drink spiking and card charges	Roppongi, Kabukichō	New 'friends' or bar staff buy you drinks; memory gaps, then several large card charges.	Buy your own drinks, keep them in hand, pay per round and keep the card in sight. Report to police and your card issuer at once.
Host-club lure	Kabukichō	A friendly young man invites a woman to a 'bar' with a cheap first visit.	Decline; debts run up fast and some clubs push unpaid bills into sex work.
Fake monks	Sensō-ji, Ginza, Shibuya crossing	A robed figure pushes a charm or bracelet into your hand and asks for money.	Keep walking; temples do not collect money on the street.
Seat or cover charge surprise	Golden Gai, Ginza bars, Roppongi clubs	No price list, or a price 'per hour' and 'per hostess'.	Ask the cover and a drink price before sitting; walk out if they will not say.
'Free' street surveys and petitions	Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku	A clipboard, then a donation request or a religious recruitment talk.	A polite no and keep walking.

Police: 110 for emergencies; kōban (police boxes) at most big crossings help with directions and lost items.
ID: Foreign visitors must carry their passport at all times; police do spot checks, especially at night in nightlife districts.
Drugs: Zero tolerance: cannabis, including CBD products with any THC, brings arrest, detention and deportation.
Earthquakes: Drop, cover and hold; do not run outside under glass and signs. Hotels and stations post evacuation routes; Safety Tips pushes English alerts.
Crowds: Halloween, New Year's Eve and big festivals bring crowd control; follow police one-way routes.

Stay healthy

Air, water, bites, clinics

Air quality by month

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
ok	mixed	mixed	mixed	ok	ok	mixed	mixed	ok	ok	ok	ok

Air is usually clean. Late February to April is cedar and cypress pollen season: many visitors with hay fever react, and locals wear masks for it. Summer brings the occasional photochemical smog advisory on hot, still days. Masks and eye drops are in every drugstore.

Water: Tap water is safe to drink; public drinking fountains in parks and stations.
Heat: Heat-stroke alerts from July to September: drink with salt (sports drinks at every vending machine), rest in air-conditioning, and watch older travellers and children.
Pollen: Bring antihistamines if cedar pollen affects you; Japanese versions are sold over the counter.
Pharmacies: Drugstore chains (Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Welcia, Sundrug) near every station; prescription counters are separate and need a Japanese prescription.
Doctors: Clinics expect you to pay the full bill on the day (often ¥5,000–20,000 (≈ US$35–140) for a visit, 2026 estimate); keep receipts for your insurer.

Hospitals and clinics: see Cope.

Safety by area and hour

Day = about 07:00–19:00. Violent crime is rare; the reported problems are nightlife bill scams, drink spiking, groping on packed trains and earthquakes.

Area	Day	Night	What to watch
Kabukichō (Shinjuku east)	fine	caution	Touts (illegal) steer visitors to bars with no posted prices; bills of ¥100,000 (≈ US$700)+ and card overcharges are reported. Host-club touts target women. Walk past anyone who stops you.
Roppongi crossing and side streets	fine	caution	Drink spiking followed by large card charges or theft has been reported repeatedly, mainly in bars reached through touts. Buy your own drinks and never leave one unattended.
Shibuya Center-gai and the crossing	fine	fine	Crowd crush risk on Halloween and New Year's Eve, when street drinking is banned around the station; pickpockets in crowds.
Ikebukuro north exit	fine	caution	Tout-led bars and pushy nightlife staff, as in Kabukichō on a smaller scale.
Ueno: Ameyoko and Yushima	fine	caution	Late-night bars in Yushima use street touts; the market street itself is fine.
Asakusa	fine	fine	Crowds at Kaminarimon; people collecting 'donations' in monk robes are not from the temple.
Marunouchi and Ginza	fine	fine	Very low risk; Ginza hostess bars charge per seat by the hour — not for casual drinks.
Minami-Senju (San'ya) budget hostels	fine	caution	Very cheap day-labourer lodgings; poor hygiene in some, and women alone report more harassment here than elsewhere.

Groping (chikan) happens on crowded trains: use women-only cars where signed, shout, or tell station staff. The railway police have offices at major stations.
Earthquakes: follow staff, stay away from glass, and check the hotel's evacuation map on the first night. Safety Tips (JNTO app) pushes alerts in English.
Lost wallets and phones are very often handed in: ask at the station or the nearest kōban before cancelling cards.

Solo, women and LGBTQ+ travellers

Short and factual

Solo

Built for one: counter seats in ramen and sushi shops, single rooms in business hotels, capsules at every major station.
Ticket-machine restaurants mean no ordering in Japanese: pick the button with the photo.
Some high-end counters take bookings only for two; set lunches are the solo way in.

Women

Walking alone at night is generally fine; the realistic risks are groping on packed trains and tout-led bars.
Women-only cars run on many lines on weekday mornings (sometimes evenings): the pink signs on the platform show where.
Women-only capsule floors and hostel dorms are widely available; check the listing.

LGBTQ+

Same-sex relationships are legal and rarely an issue for visitors; public affection of any kind is uncommon.
Shinjuku Ni-chōme packs several hundred LGBTQ+ bars into a few blocks; Tokyo Pride is usually held in June (check dates).
Japan has no same-sex marriage at national level; hotels book two men or two women into a double without comment in practice.

Etiquette in Tokyo

What locals notice

Trains: Phones on silent and no calls; backpacks worn on the front or put on the rack in crowds; let people off before boarding at the marked lines.
Shrines and temples: Bow at the gate, walk at the side of the approach, rinse hands at the basin; no photos where a sign says so.
Shoes: Off at a raised step, a shoe rack or tatami — ryokan, some izakaya, fitting rooms. Toilet slippers stay in the toilet.
Tipping: Not done; staff will chase you to return the change.
Eating and rubbish: Eat at the stall or a bench, not on the move; carry rubbish to the next convenience-store bin.
Paying: Put cash or card in the small tray at the till rather than handing it over.
Tattoos: Many public baths, gyms and pools refuse visible tattoos; cover them or look for tattoo-friendly baths.

Cope

Embassies, visas, doctors, laundry — addresses change; check before you go

Hospitals and clinics that handle foreigners

Where	Area	Use it for
St. Luke's International Hospital	Akashichō, Chūō (near Tsukiji)	24 h emergency and an international patient desk; long waits for walk-ins.
Tokyo Medical University Hospital	Nishi-Shinjuku	Large teaching hospital close to Shinjuku hotels; international desk (check hours).
Japanese Red Cross Medical Center	Hiroo, Shibuya	Emergency and specialist care on the south-west side.
Tokyo Midtown Clinic	Roppongi, Minato	English-speaking GP clinic for non-emergencies; book ahead and pay by card.

Visa extensions

Office: Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau, Kōnan, Minato: a bus ride from Shinagawa station. Check hours and the documents list before going.
Extending a visitor stay: Granted only for reasons such as illness, an accident or a cancelled flight; apply before your permitted stay ends and bring proof.
Overstay: Can mean detention and a ban on re-entry: sort it out at the bureau, not at the airport.

Embassies and consulates

Country	Address	Phone	Note
United States	1-10-5 Akasaka, Minato	+81 3-3224-5000	(check)
United Kingdom	1 Ichibanchō, Chiyoda	+81 3-5211-1100	(check)
Canada	7-3-38 Akasaka, Minato	+81 3-5412-6200	(check)
Australia	2-1-14 Mita, Minato	+81 3-5232-4111	(check)
New Zealand	20-40 Kamiyamachō, Shibuya	+81 3-3467-2271	(check)
Ireland	2-10-7 Kōjimachi, Chiyoda	+81 3-3263-0695	(check)
France	4-11-44 Minami-Azabu, Minato	+81 3-5798-6000	(check)
Germany	4-5-10 Minami-Azabu, Minato	+81 3-5791-7700	(check)
South Korea	1-2-5 Minami-Azabu, Minato	+81 3-3455-2601	(check)
China	3-4-33 Moto-Azabu, Minato	+81 3-3403-3388	(check)
India	2-2-11 Kudan-Minami, Chiyoda	+81 3-3262-2391	(check)
Singapore	5-1-3 Roppongi, Minato	+81 3-3586-9111	(check)
Thailand	2-2-1 Kudan-Minami, Chiyoda	+81 3-3222-4101	(check)
Philippines	5-15-5 Roppongi, Minato	+81 3-5562-1600	(check)
Vietnam	50-11 Motoyoyogichō, Shibuya	+81 3-3466-3313	(check)

Help lines: Japan Visitor Hotline (JNTO) 050-3816-2787, 24 h; Tokyo English Life Line 03-5774-0992, daily about 09:00–23:00; Tokyo medical information (Himawari) 03-5285-8181, about 09:00–20:00.Japan Visitor Hotline (JNTO) 050-3816-2787, 24 h; Tokyo English Life Line 03-5774-0992, daily about 9:00 AM–11:00 PM; Tokyo medical information (Himawari) 03-5285-8181, about 9:00 AM–8:00 PM.
Lost property: Ask station staff first (each rail company keeps its own lost-and-found), then a kōban. Items handed to police go to the Metropolitan Police Lost and Found Center in Iidabashi after a few days.
Lost passport: Police report at a police station, then your embassy for a new passport or travel document; ask the embassy whether you also need to visit immigration before flying (check).
Medicines: Stimulant ADHD medicines and codeine-heavy painkillers are restricted; bringing more than a month's supply of some medicines needs an import certificate. Check the Ministry of Health list before you pack.
Laundry: Coin laundries in every neighbourhood: a wash-and-dry cycle about ¥600–1,200 (≈ US$5–9) (2026 estimate), with detergent dispensed automatically.

Phrases that do the work

Show the screen if pronunciation fails

Anywhere

Excuse me / Sorry

すみません

sumimasen

Anywhere

Thank you

ありがとうございます

arigatō gozaimasu

Ordering

This one, please

これをください

kore o kudasai

Shop

How much is it?

いくらですか？

ikura desu ka

Paying

Can I pay by card?

カードで払えますか？

kādo de haraemasu ka

Taxi

To this address, please

ここまでお願いします

koko made onegai shimasu

Temple

A temple stamp (goshuin), please

御朱印をお願いします

goshuin o onegai shimasu

Anywhere

Where is the toilet?

トイレはどこですか？

toire wa doko desu ka

Pocket card

One page · print or save as PDF

Fill in, then print or save as PDF

Stays in this browser only; nothing is sent anywhere.

Hotel nameHotel address (copy it in the local script from your booking)Hotel phoneYour embassy or consulate phone

Tokyo東京

Pocket card · Voykit

My bed tonight

—

ここまでお願いしますTo this address, please

Emergency

Police110
Fire and ambulance119
Japan Visitor Hotline (24 h)050-3816-2787
Tokyo English Life Line03-5774-0992

Embassy

Most embassies are in Minato (Akasaka, Azabu) and Chiyoda. Write your own embassy's 24-hour number below.

My embassy: —

Fare anchors (2026 estimate)

Haneda → Shinagawa, Keikyu: ¥330 (≈ US$3), about 15–20 min
Narita → Ueno, Skyliner: ¥2,580 (≈ US$18) reserved, about 45 min
Taxi flag fall: ¥500 (≈ US$4), then about ¥100 (≈ under US$1) per 255 m; +20% 22:00–05:00¥500 (≈ US$4), then about ¥100 (≈ under US$1) per 255 m; +20% 10:00 PM–5:00 AM

Say or show

すみません — Excuse me / Sorry (sumimasen)
ありがとうございます — Thank you (arigatō gozaimasu)
これをください — This one, please (kore o kudasai)
カードで払えますか？ — Can I pay by card? (kādo de haraemasu ka)
ここまでお願いします — To this address, please (koko made onegai shimasu)
トイレはどこですか？ — Where is the toilet? (toire wa doko desu ka)

Show the hotel's address in Japanese plus its phone number; drivers enter the phone number into the navigation.

Deep dive

History, reading, photos and every source

Photos

2 · free licences, credited

Minato at golden hour, with Tokyo Tower among the towers of the bay side. Photo: David Kernan, CC BY 4.0
Tokyo Tower lit at night. Photo: David Kernan, CC BY 4.0

Deep dive

10 min read · 6 chapters

Tokyo looks new because it has been destroyed and rebuilt twice in living memory, by the 1923 earthquake and the 1945 air raids. This deep dive reads the city as Edo underneath: the street plan, the river quarters, the festivals and the fast food of a 17th-century castle town still show through the concrete once you know where to look.

1History2 min

Edo began as a fishing village and a small fort built by the warrior Ōta Dōkan in 1457 on a bluff above a tidal bay. Tokugawa Ieyasu took it as his base in 1590 and found mostly marsh and inlets. After he became shōgun in 1603, regional lords were ordered to supply labour and money for huge works: a hill in Kanda was cut down to fill the Hibiya inlet, canals were dug, and the castle became the largest in Japan. From 1635 the alternate-attendance system made every lord keep a residence in Edo and spend every other year there, filling the city with samurai households.

Fire shaped the town. The Great Fire of Meireki in 1657 killed perhaps 100,000 people and destroyed the castle keep, which was never rebuilt. Afterwards the shogunate widened streets, made firebreaks and moved temples to the edges of the city. Blazes were so frequent that people called them the flowers of Edo. Even so, the population passed a million in the early 18th century, making Edo one of the largest cities in the world.

In 1868 the shogunate fell, the city was renamed Tokyo, eastern capital, and the young Emperor Meiji moved into the castle, now the Imperial Palace. Brick streets appeared in Ginza after a fire in 1872, and the first railway ran to Yokohama the same year. On 1 September 1923, just before noon, the Great Kantō earthquake struck. Fires spread through wooden neighbourhoods and about 105,000 people died across the region. In the aftermath, false rumours led vigilantes to kill thousands of Korean residents.

US incendiary raids in 1944–45 burned much of the city again. The raid of 9–10 March 1945 alone killed an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 people, mostly in the eastern low-lying wards. Recovery was fast: the 1964 Olympics brought the Shinkansen, the monorail and elevated expressways. The city has since hosted a second Olympics, delayed to 2021, and counts about 14 million people in the metropolis and some 37 million or more in the wider region.

First fort: 1457, Ōta Dōkan
Tokugawa capital: 1603–1868
Renamed Tokyo: 1868
Great Kantō earthquake: 1 September 1923, 11:581 September 1923, 11:58 AM
Metropolis created: 1943; 23 special wards
Summer Olympics: 1964 and 2021

See itImperial Palace East Gardens →Tokyo Memorial Hall, Yokoamichō Park, SumidaSensō-ji, rebuilt after 1945 →

2Neighbourhood stories2 min

The oldest split in the city is between yamanote and shitamachi. Samurai took the higher ground west of the castle, the yamanote, while merchants and artisans packed the reclaimed lowland to the east, the shitamachi or low city. The line blurred long ago, but the eastern districts along the Sumida River, Asakusa, Ueno, Yanaka, Ningyōchō and Fukagawa, still have more shrines per street, more family shops and a stronger festival life.

Nihonbashi was the commercial heart of Edo and the starting point of the five great highways; distances in Japan are still measured from a marker on its bridge, the current stone bridge dating from 1911. The fish market stood here until 1923. Ginza takes its name from a silver mint set up in 1612. Marunouchi, next to Tokyo Station, was bought by Mitsubishi in 1890 and built up with red brick offices nicknamed Londontown, now replaced by towers.

Asakusa grew as a temple town and then an entertainment district. After 1873 part of the temple land became a public park, and its sixth block, Rokku, filled with theatres and, from 1903, some of the country’s first cinemas. A twelve-storey tower, the Ryōunkaku, stood there from 1890 until the 1923 earthquake. Ueno was the site of a battle in 1868 between shogunate loyalists and the new government; its park, opened in 1873, now holds the national museums and a zoo.

The west is newer. Shinjuku began as a post town on the Kōshū highway and boomed as suburban railways met there after 1923; its station now handles more passengers than any other in the world. Shibuya grew around the terminals of private railways and is known for the Hachikō statue, honouring a dog who waited for his dead master in the 1920s and 30s. Harajuku’s fashion streets sit beside the forested approach to Meiji Jingu, opened in 1920.

Yanaka is the best place to see what survived. The area escaped much of the damage of 1923 and 1945, so wooden houses, small temples and narrow lanes remain. Across the river, Kiyosumi and Fukagawa hold Edo-period garden and shrine sites, and the Fukagawa Edo Museum rebuilds a street of the 1840s at full scale, complete with a fire watchtower, a boathouse and a row of tenement houses, nagaya, where most Edo townspeople lived.

Nihonbashi bridge: Current stone bridge 1911; road zero point
Ginza silver mint: 1612
Ueno Park: Opened 1873
Hachikō: Waited at Shibuya station 1925–1935
Meiji Jingu: Opened 1920, rebuilt 1958

See itNakamise-dōri, Asakusa →Shibuya Crossing →Takeshita-dōri, Harajuku →Yanaka Ginza shopping street

3Architecture1 min

Little in Tokyo is old, and the reasons are visible if you know them. Wooden buildings burned, the 1923 earthquake and the 1945 raids cleared whole districts, and Japanese houses have long been treated as depreciating goods, often rebuilt after 30 years. Strict earthquake codes, tightened in 1981 and again after 1995, also push owners to replace rather than repair. The result is a patchwork of small plots, each with its own building from a different decade.

The survivors are worth seeking out. The corner towers and stone walls of Edo Castle still stand around the palace, and the Fujimi turret is from the 17th century. Tokyo Station, designed by Tatsuno Kingo and opened in 1914, lost its domes in 1945 and had them rebuilt in 2012. Buildings of the late 1920s and 30s, such as the Wakō clock tower in Ginza from 1932, show the Art Deco taste of the reconstruction years.

Modern Tokyo has several landmarks of world architecture. Tange Kenzō’s Yoyogi National Gymnasium, with its swooping suspended roof, was built for the 1964 Olympics, and his twin-towered Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building opened in 1991 with a free observation floor. The Metabolist Nakagin Capsule Tower in Ginza, from 1972, was demolished in 2022, and some capsules went to museums. Tokyo Skytree, at 634 metres, opened in 2012.

At street level, look for the zakkyo building: a narrow tower of bars and shops, one per floor, with a column of signs down the front. It exists because land is expensive and plots are small, and it explains why so many good restaurants are up a lift on the sixth floor. Residential streets are low-rise and quiet, with potted plants on the pavement, because zoning allows tall buildings on main roads and little ones behind.

Tokyo Station: 1914, Tatsuno Kingo; restored 2012
Yoyogi National Gymnasium: 1964, Tange Kenzō
Metropolitan Government Building: 1991, 243 m
Tokyo Skytree: 634 m, opened 2012
Earthquake code tightened: 1981

See itImperial Palace East Gardens →Tokyo Station Marunouchi buildingYoyogi National GymnasiumTokyo Metropolitan Government Building

4Food history1 min

Edo was a city of single men, samurai on duty and labourers from the provinces, many without kitchens. Street stalls fed them fast: soba noodles, tempura on skewers, grilled eel, and sushi. Hand-pressed nigiri is usually credited to the Edo cook Hanaya Yohei in the 1820s, though dates vary. The word Edomae, in front of Edo, first meant fish from the bay; now it signals the Tokyo style of sushi, where fish is cured, marinated or simmered before it meets the rice.

Soba, not udon, is the Tokyo noodle, and old soba shops in Kanda and Asakusa still serve it with a strong, dark dipping sauce. The fish market moved from Nihonbashi to Tsukiji after the 1923 earthquake, opening in 1935, and then to Toyosu in 2018. Tsukiji’s outer market of small shops and stalls stayed where it was. Tsukishima, a reclaimed island, is known for monjayaki, a runny griddle dish once sold as a children’s snack.

Meiji Tokyo was where Western food became Japanese. Kimuraya in Ginza created anpan, a soft bun filled with sweet bean paste, in 1874. Rengatei in Ginza is widely credited with the breaded pork cutlet that became tonkatsu. In 1910 Rairaiken in Asakusa is often named as the first popular ramen shop for Japanese customers. Western-style cafés and beer halls followed, and the yōshoku of curry, omelette rice and croquettes became standard family food.

After 1945 black markets near stations turned into rows of tiny bars and grills, the yokochō. Omoide Yokochō by Shinjuku station and Nonbei Yokochō in Shibuya still keep this scale, with six to ten seats per bar. Today Tokyo has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city, but the everyday food culture is in its standing soba counters, depachika food halls and set-lunch shops.

Nigiri sushi: Credited to Hanaya Yohei, 1820s (dates vary)
Tsukiji market: 1935–2018; moved to Toyosu
Anpan: Kimuraya, Ginza, 1874
Early ramen shop: Rairaiken, Asakusa, 1910

See itNakamise-dōri snacks →Tsukiji outer marketOmoide Yokochō, ShinjukuToyosu Market viewing decks

5Festivals1 min

Edo counted three great festivals: the Sannō Matsuri of Hie Shrine, the Kanda Matsuri of Kanda Myōjin, and the Fukagawa festival of Tomioka Hachimangū. Sannō and Kanda were once allowed to parade into the castle grounds, and today they alternate their grand years: Kanda in May of odd-numbered years, Sannō in June of even-numbered ones. Fukagawa is known as the water-throwing festival, with spectators soaking the mikoshi carriers in August.

Asakusa’s Sanja Matsuri on the third weekend of May is the most crowded, drawing up to two million people over three days. About a hundred neighbourhood mikoshi are carried on the Saturday, and on the Sunday three large shrines, each weighing around a tonne, leave Asakusa Shrine in the early morning. Sensō-ji also holds the Hōzuki market on 9–10 July, when a visit is said to bring the merit of 46,000 days, and the battledore market, Hagoita-ichi, on 17–19 December.

Summer evenings belong to fireworks and dancing. The Sumida River fireworks on the last Saturday of July trace back to displays of the 1730s and draw around a million spectators. Kōenji’s Awa Odori in late August fills the streets with dance troupes. In November, the Tori-no-Ichi fairs at Ōtori shrines sell decorated bamboo rakes to gather in luck for the coming year.

The New Year is the biggest event of all. Meiji Jingu usually has the most first-shrine visitors in Japan, some three million over the first three days, with queues managed by police. Sensō-ji, Kanda Myōjin and local shrines fill too. Shops mostly reopen on 2 or 3 January with lucky-bag sales, fukubukuro. Visitors who want the atmosphere without the crush can go on 4 or 5 January, when stalls are still up but queues are short.

Sanja Matsuri: Third weekend of May
Kanda Matsuri: May, grand version in odd years
Sannō Matsuri: June, grand version in even years
Sumida River fireworks: Last Saturday of July
Hagoita-ichi: 17–19 December, Sensō-ji

See itSensō-ji and Asakusa Shrine →Meiji Jingu →Kanda Myōjin

6City life1 min

The rail network is the city’s skeleton. The JR Yamanote Line loops about 35 kilometres through 30 stations in roughly an hour, and more than a dozen metro and private lines cross it. Rush hours from about 07:30 to 09:30 are dense, and women-only cars run on many lines in the morning. The last trains leave around midnight, which is why karaoke boxes, manga cafés and capsule hotels fill with people who missed them.

Most Tokyoites live in small flats and use the city as their living room: cafés for work, public baths for relaxing, parks for picnics, konbini for almost anything. Sentō, the neighbourhood public baths, have shrunk from over 2,600 in the late 1960s to a few hundred, but those that remain are cheap and friendly places to see local life. The police box, kōban, on many corners gives directions as often as it deals with crime.

Order is kept by habit as much as rule. Rubbish is sorted into burnable, non-burnable, plastic and bottles, and collected on set days. Neighbourhood associations run festival stalls and disaster drills, and every district has marked evacuation parks. On 1 September, the anniversary of the 1923 earthquake, the country holds Disaster Prevention Day drills. Visitors will notice the green signs and hear the tests of public loudspeakers.

For all its size, Tokyo is a city of villages. Each station has its own shopping street, its own shrine, its own bakery and bar regulars. The best way to see this is to take a train a few stops from a famous sight and walk: Asakusa to Kuramae, Shibuya to Tomigaya, Ueno to Yanaka. The scale drops and the everyday city appears.

Yamanote Line: 30 stations, about 34.5 km, about 1 hour per loop30 stations, about 21 mi, about 1 hour per loop
Metropolis population: About 14 million
Share of Japan’s economy: About one fifth
Disaster Prevention Day: 1 September

See itShinjuku Gyoen →A neighbourhood sentōYanaka and Nezu back streets

Read, watch, wordsReading · Watching · Glossary · Sources4 parts

Reading

Low City, High City: Tokyo from Edo to the Earthquake — Edward SeidenstickerThe standard account of how Edo became modern Tokyo, district by district.
Tokyo Rising: The City Since the Great Earthquake — Edward SeidenstickerContinues the story through the war, the Olympics and the bubble.
Tokyo: A Cultural History — Stephen MansfieldA readable guide to the layers of the city and what survives of each.
Edo, the City That Became Tokyo — Akira Naito and Kazuo HozumiDetailed illustrations of how the castle town was built and lived in.

Watching

Tokyo Story — Ozu Yasujirō, 1953Shows the postwar city through the eyes of visiting parents.
Jiro Dreams of Sushi — David Gelb, 2011The craft and discipline behind Tokyo’s Edomae sushi.
Perfect Days — Wim Wenders, 2023Daily routine of a Tokyo toilet cleaner, with scenes around Asakusa and Shibuya.
Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories — Netflix, 2016Small late-night eatery stories in the yokochō style.

Glossary

Term	Local	Meaning
shitamachi	下町	The low city: old merchant and artisan districts east of the palace.
yamanote	山の手	The high city: former samurai districts to the west.
Edokko	江戸っ子	A true child of Edo, born and raised in the old city.
Edomae	江戸前	In front of Edo; the Tokyo style of sushi.
yokochō	横丁	A narrow side alley, often lined with tiny bars.
kōban	交番	Neighbourhood police box.
sentō	銭湯	Neighbourhood public bath.
zakkyo building	雑居ビル	Narrow building with a different business on each floor.
fukubukuro	福袋	Lucky bag sold at New Year sales.

Read for this deep dive

Background reading only: the text above is written by Voykit, not copied from these pages.

Sources

officialGO TOKYO (official tourism)
officialTokyo Metro
secondaryWikivoyage — Tokyo
secondaryWikivoyage — Shinjuku
officialJNTO — Japan travel (official)
officialJR East — passes and lines
officialToei Transportation (Tokyo Metropolitan Government)
officialShinjuku Gyoen (National Gardens Association)