3 Days in Tokyo: The Perfect Itinerary to Maximize Your Trip

Tokyo is one of those cities that never stops moving, and with only 3 days, you’ll want to make every moment count. From the bustling streets of Shibuya to the historic temples of Asakusa, this itinerary will help you see the best of Tokyo without feeling rushed. Expect a mix of must-see attractions, hidden gems, and incredible food stops, so you can experience the city like a pro. Let’s dive in and make the most of your time in Tokyo.

Where to Stay in Tokyo 

To maximize your time in Tokyo, I highly recommend staying in well-connected neighborhoods such as Shibuya or Shinjuku that give you easy access to major attractions and public transit. Below are my top hotel picks, perfect for any budget:

Tokyo Hotels

• Luxury: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel – We stayed here, and it was phenomenal. We were absolutely blown away by the spacious rooms, stunning skyline views (Tokyo Tower views too!), and just a 10-minute walk to the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. 100% recommend staying here your first time in Tokyo. 
• Mid-Range: Shinjuku Granbell Hotel – A stylish hotel in the heart of Shinjuku, close to Golden Gai.

Day 1 (Shibuya, Shinjuku & HARAJUKU)

Most of what you’ve seen of Tokyo are probably within these 3 neighborhoods and for a good reason! You can spend weeks exploring just these 3 places and continue to find amazing food and hidden gems. This is perfect for day 1, especially if your hotel is in one of these areas. 

Must visit places

• Shibuya Scramble Crossing: The world’s busiest crosswalk. So surreal to walk this madness! 
• Shibuya Sky: Insane 360° city views. Try to get tickets for sunset with the most beautiful golden hour views of Tokyo. Also tickets drop at midnight (local time) so be sure to book on time and 30 days in advance! Book tickets here.
• Shibuya Center-Gai: Super bright and brilliant street in Shibuya 
• Shibuya – Hachiko Statue: Honoring the most loyal pup in Japan 
• Shibuya – Mega Donki: No trip to Japan is complete without going to Don Quijote especially the MEGA one in Shibuya 
• Shinjuku – 3D Cat Billboard: So cute to see in person! 
• Shinjuku – Golden Gai: A historic nightlife area filled with tiny bars perfect for a night out on the town
• Shinjuku – Omoide Yokocho: Omg I loved walking down Omide Yokocho! All the izakayas (tiny bars) that literally fit 4-5 people. MUST VISIT 
• Shinjuku – Kabukicho: Tokyo’s entertainment & nightlife hub. More pretty lights and more shopping! 
• Harajuku – Meji Shrine: A peaceful escape inside Yoyogi Park. I would recommend going in the morning for a peaceful walk while you wait for your fav coffee shop to open (Tip: oh yeah.. things in Japan don’t typically open until later think after 10am)
• Harajuku – Takeshita Street: The ultimate spot for quirky fashion, crepes and gaming places! We spent a great afternoon eating street good and playing Mario Kart. 

Food Recs

• Ichiran Ramen (Shibuya): Must-try tonkotsu ramen. We actually had this on Ubereats our second night (I got food poisoning, a story for another time, follow me on Tik Tok to catch up)
• Gyukatsu Motomura: Crispy wagyu beef cutlets. Super popular but so worth it, there are many places like this in Japan but this one is said to be one of the best
• Chiso Konya: Known for its seasonal, Kyoto-style dishes, the restaurant focuses on elegant presentation and deep, natural flavors. The intimate setting, traditional décor, and kimono-clad staff create a calm, authentic atmosphere, making it perfect for a special night out or anyone looking to experience true Japanese hospitality
• Yakitori Sei: Elevated Yakitori experience with a small intimate number of people at a time.
• 7/11: Did you really go to Japan if you didn’t try some food from the 7/11. I will say I thought the sandwiches were a little over hyped but better than the US that’s forsure haha
• Cafe Reissue: A must-visit for coffee lovers and art fans, famous for its incredible 3D and 2D latte art. You can bring a photo of your favorite character, pet, or even yourself, and the talented baristas will recreate it in your coffee! The cozy vibe, creative drinks, and fun atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a unique café experience in Tokyo

Day 2 (Asakusa, AKIHABARA & UENO)

This was actually my favorite day in Tokyo. It was the perfect combination of historical, traditional and bright lights, anime and gaming. A LOT of walking today so get on your fav pair of shoes and let’s go! 

MUST VISIT PLACES

• Senso-ji Temple: Tokyo’s oldest temple. Get here in the morning to beat the crowd! 
• Nakamise Shopping Street: Perfect for souvenirs & street food (get the melonpan!)
• Tokyo Skytree: Another great view point to get stunning landscapes of Tokyo 
• Electric Town: An area of Akihabara with sooo many stores with old electronics, gaming and more! 
• Tokyo National Museum: check out to see what pop ups they have going on. When we went there was the Hello Kitty 50th anniversary pop up!
• Ueno Ameyoko Shopping Street
• Ueno Park

Food RECS

• Asakusa Kagetsudo Honten: Famous for its melonpan (sweet bread), this bakery offers freshly baked treats that are crispy on the outside and soft inside.
• Tendon Tenya Asakusa: A popular spot for tempura bowls, serving crispy tempura over rice at reasonable prices.
• Up to You Coffee: Situated near Kappabashi Street, this intimate café is owned by an award-winning barista known for exceptional latte art.
• route.books: A five-minute walk from Ueno Station, this café-bookstore is a hidden gem facing a back alley.
• Daikatsu: Located in Asakusa, Daikatsu is a cozy restaurant known for its delicious tempura dishes,

Day 3 (Ginza, Roppongi & Minato)

This day is about luxury, art, and iconic views. Ginza, know for luxury shopping (think 5th ave NYC), Roppongi for the art, and Minato for the most stunning views of Tokyo tower. Perfect way to enjoy your last full day in Tokyo. 

MUST VISIT PLACES

• TeamLab Planets: Everyone on the internet says to visit Teamlab Planets. I will leave it here as a recommendation but to be honest it wasn’t really my thing. We ended up visiting last minute (hard to get tickets but made it happen) and I have to say it’s a little hyped. If you have time cool, if not you can definitely skip
• Ginza Shopping District: Including the Ginza six, all things High-end boutiques & Michelin-star dining
• Ginza Uniqlo: Visit the biggest Uniqlo in the world! With 12 distinct floor, you will definitely need to grab a shopping basket 
• Vintage Designer Shopping: If you are into finding vintage designer, Ginza is the place for you! (2nd st, Brand off, Kindal, Okura, and many many more) 
• Tokyo Tower: One of the most iconic Tokyo landmarks. You can’t miss taking in Tokyo tower, I wouldn’t necessarily go up but there are a couple of places to view from afar 
• Zojoji Temple : A stunning old-meets-new contrast, temple with Tokyo tower in the backdrop
• Roppongi Hills Sky Deck: Breathtaking views at sunset.
• Imperial Palace: a historic landmark and home to Japan’s emperor, surrounded by moats, stone walls, and stunning gardens. While the inner grounds are off-limits, visitors can explore the scenic East Gardens and Nijubashi Bridge, offering a peaceful escape from Tokyo’s fast-paced energy.
• Go-Kart Experience: Go-karting through Tokyo lets you drive through the city’s famous streets—like Shibuya Crossing and Akihabara—dressed as your favorite character. With a valid international driving permit, you can cruise past iconic landmarks while feeling like you’re in a real-life Mario Kart game. Although some people say the locals frown upon it, it’s a thrilling, unique way to experience the city! 

FOOD RECS

• Age 3: A trendy café known for its crispy fried sandwiches with unique flavors like Crème Brûlée and Yaki Keema Curry. Each sandwich is made fresh to order, ensuring a perfect balance of crunch and rich filling. A must-visit for those looking to try a creative twist on classic sandwiches in Tokyo
• Koffee Mameya Kakeru: Think bar but instead of cocktails you’re served coffee. Renowned for its immersive coffee tasting courses. Guests can explore a variety of roasts prepared in different styles, including innovative coffee cocktails and mocktails, all within a minimalist setting. Highly recommend, make reservations.
• Bongen Coffee: Really wish we got a chance to try this place. The coffee matcha latte is something I will definitely have to come back for. Get here right at opening or you’re looking at a 30-45 minute wait time
• Tokyo confidential: A cool bar with stunning views of Tokyo tower
• Stellar Garden: The only thing I will say about the place is go for the views… do not eat anything…

BONUS (2 Days in Mt. Fuji)

If you have 2 extra days to spare I would HIGHLY recommend staying near Mt. Fuji for 2 nights. The views in February were UNREAL, truly some of my favorite days spent in Japan. If you don’t have time to work in 2 days, take a day trip from Tokyo, either way it’s worth making the trip out there.

Mt fuji Hotels

• Bessho Sasa: We stayed at this traditional Japanese Roykan with a Private Open-Air Onsen in Every Suite facing Mt Fuji. I will say the service here was not the greatest but the rooms were huge and you truly can’t beat a private onsen with Fuji views. 
• Fuji Kawaguchiko Onsen Konanso: A traditional ryokan with private open-air onsen rooms and incredible Mt. Fuji views from the baths.
• Shuhokaku Kogetsu: A lakefront ryokan with stunning views of Mt. Fuji over Lake Kawaguchi. All rooms face the mountain! 
• Ubuya: A stylish ryokan offering Mt. Fuji views from every room 

MUST SEE PLACES 

• Chureito Pagoda: One of the most iconic Fuji photo spots, especially stunning during cherry blossom season. Get there early if possible!
• Lake Kawaguchi: The best lake for clear reflections of Mt. Fuji, with boat rides & walking trails.
• Oishi Park: A beautiful park with stunning views of Mt. Fuji
• Shimo-Yoshida Honcho Street: A super famous street to take picture of Mt. Fuji. I actually recommend just going a street or two over to get the same effect without the crowds. 
• Oshino Hakkai Village: The cutest little village with lots of shops and food. And of course Mt. Fuji views. 
• Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine: One of my favorite shrines in Japan. It was very quiet and secluded, not many people. It was a bit older giving it a charm surrounded by trees and greenery.

Final thoughts

Three days in Tokyo may not be enough to see everything, but it’s the perfect introduction to this vibrant, fast-paced city. From the neon lights of Shibuya to the historic temples of Asakusa, you’ll experience a blend of tradition and modernity like nowhere else. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets, indulging in next-level sushi, or getting lost in hidden alleyways, Tokyo always has something new to discover. While this itinerary covers the highlights, the best part about Tokyo is that there’s always a reason to come back—so consider this your first of many unforgettable trips, I know I will!

Here is my full 10 day Japan itinerary that will take you through all you need to know when visiting Japan for the first time in 10 days.