Last updated: 17 January 2020.

Here is our most comprehensive TOKYO TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG with sample Tokyo itineraries, breakdown of expenses, list of things to do, tour and hotel recommendations, and other useful tips!

Over the past six years, I had set foot in Tokyo six times, each lasting as long as my visa allowed. That alone should tell you just how much I adore the Japanese capital. I’m not even sure why. You know how you grew up building on your mind a list of qualities you want your THE ONE to possess? Then you meet someone who doesn’t meet any of those requirements, but for some strange reason, you know they’re the one for you. To me, that’s Tokyo.

Any attempt to search for reason leaves me nauseated. The things that I would normally hate in any other city are things I love about Tokyo. I dislike big urban capitals; Tokyo is a humongous urban capital. I abhor big crowds; Tokyo is overcrowded. I despise too many rules; Tokyo has many unwritten codes that locals and guests are expected to abide by. Yet, with each visit I find myself falling deeper and deeper even though she’s confusing af. She’s zen but wacky, chaotic but organized, minimalist but vibrant, traditional but futuristic, efficient but absolutely insane.

UNDERSTANDING TOKYO

We often think of Tokyo as a single city, but it’s actually a lot more complicated than that. It’s a metropolitan prefecture. (Wait, what? Uhm, let me explain.) It’s not a single city but not your usual Japanese prefecture either. It’s something that is unique to Tokyo. Think of it as a cluster of cities, municipalities, and special wards. It’s vast and dense. Together, it is the most populous metropolitan area in the world, with over 37 million residents.

But let’s focus on one area in particular — the 23 special wards. What many refer to as Tokyo is actually what used to be Tokyo City, which is now broken down into 23 Special Wards, each operating as an individual city. (If you’re familiar with Metro Manila, it’s a similar concept. What we call Metro Manila is actually composed of separate, independent cities.) There’s a big chance that most of the attractions you want to see are confined within the collective boundaries of these 23 special wards.

The good news is, if you’re in Tokyo for only a short visit, you wouldn’t even feel the division. All 23 special wards seem to function as one giant urban hub, connected by the most impressive transportation system I have ever seen in my life.

Here are a few more facts you need to know:

• Time Zone: UTC+9 (Japan Standard Time). Japan is one hour ahead of the Philippines and Singapore
• Language: Japanese (Nihongo). English isn’t widely spoken. However, most signs have English translations.
• Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY, ¥). JPY 1000 is roughly USD9, EUR8.15, SGD12.23, PHP 462 (as of January 2020).
• Modes of payment: Many establishments accept credit cards, but most still prefer cash.

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WHERE TO STAY IN TOKYO

Hmmm, tough question. Before I answer that, let me first explain to you the JR Yamanote Line. (I’ll answer this, I promise. Just bear with me.)

The JR Yamanote Line is a train loop that runs around Tokyo, connecting the city’s key areas including Ueno, Shinjuku, Shibuya and Shinagawa. It also marks the boundary of Central Tokyo. The area within the loop is considered Central Tokyo.

It is important to be familiar with this because most key attractions in Tokyo are situated along this loop. If it’s your first time, you’ll probably want to see the Shibuya Crossing, Harajuku, Shinjuku, Imperial Palace, Ueno, and Akihabara. All of these are connected by the JR Yamanote line. It’s something to take into consideration when choosing a place to stay.

Best Area to Stay in Tokyo

The truth is, as long as the hotel you choose is near a station, you should be fine because most tourist spots are accessible by train/subway. But when it comes to convenience, some areas are far better than others in terms of accessibility and number of accommodations.

Most online sources recommend three locations: Shinjuku, Shibuya, and the Tokyo Station area. I agree with these recommendations. They’re all close to Yamanote Line and direct airport bus services. There are also numerous shops and restaurants around.

However, I prefer Ueno for a lot of personal reasons.

• Ueno is only 40-70 minutes away from the airport by train (via Keisei as mentioned above). It is important to me because I dislike switching trains and walking long distances when I have 30 kilos of baggage on my shoulders.
• Ueno is also closer to Akihabara than any of the three other locations. Akihabara is my absolute favorite place in Tokyo.
• Ueno harbors a number of budget hotel chains including Hotel Mystays, which I frequent.

Even my sister and another friend who both used to live in Tokyo recommend Ueno. But that’s just us.

If the overall vibe is important to you, Asakusa and Akihabara are neighborhoods to consider too. Akihabara is great for otaku and gadget-happy tourists.

Asakusa, on the other hand, may not be along Yamanote Line and it’s not a shopping district, but it has an Old Tokyo feel around it that you might appreciate. Staying here also means you’re close to Senso-ji (Asakusa Kannon Temple).

Wherever you choose to stay, here are some budget accommodation types and usual off-peak rates:

• Bed at Capsule Hotel: as low as USD 20
• Bed at a Dormitory: as low as USD 28
• Single Room: as low as USD 55
• Twin/Double Room: as low as USD 78

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Top Budget Hotels in Tokyo

Here are the top ranking budget and capsule hotels in Tokyo as scored by Agoda customers (regardless of neighborhood).

• JR-EAST HOTEL METS AKIHABARA. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• MyCUBE by MYSTAYS Asakusa Kuramae. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Capsule Hotel Anshin Oyado Tokyo Akihabara. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• GLANSIT AKIHABARA COMFORT CAPUSULE HOTEL. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Capsule Hotel Anshin Oyado Premier Tokyo Shinjuku Station. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• KEIKYU EX INN Akihabara -Tokyo Akihabara. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Dormy Inn Premium Tokyo Kodenmacho – Nihonbashi. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Hotel Wing International Select Asakusa Komagata. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

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Top Tokyo Hostels

Based on online scores given by Agoda customers.

• Oakhostel Sakura. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Citan Hostel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Sheena and Ippei Guesthouse. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Hostel Chapter Two Tokyo. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• BUNKA HOSTEL TOKYO. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• WISE OWL HOSTELS TOKYO. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

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Search for more: Tokyo Hotels

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POCKET WIFI & LOCAL SIM IN TOKYO

There are a lot of FREE wi-fi spots throughout Tokyo, but if you want to stay connected 24/7, you can rent a mobile wi-fi or get a local 4G SIM.

Pocket Wifi Rental can accommodate multiple users so if you’re a group, you just need one and split the cost. You’ll find a lot of them around, even at the airport. However, based on experience, they are so in demand that every time I try to get one, there’s always none left. Fortunately, you can reserve one online and just pick it up at the airport!

If you opt with a 4G Data SIM, you can choose between unlimited 4G data and 3GB data for 8 days. If you’re a heavy data user, best to go with the Unlimited Plan. You can pick up the SIM card at Narita Airport.

✅ RESERVE POCKET WIFI HERE!

✅ RESERVE DATA SIM CARD HERE!

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HOW TO GET TO TOKYO

Tokyo is one of the most visited cities in the world, so accessibility isn’t an issue. In fact, it is served by two airports: Narita, for international flights, and Haneda, for domestic flights mostly.

Located 70km from the city center, Narita Airport is farther from the city than Haneda. Narita Airport has 3 terminals and has more transfer options. Here are your cheapest bets:

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Narita Airport to Tokyo by Bus

Keisei Bus transfer passengers from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station. If your hotel is near Tokyo Station or any of its very few stops, good for you. If not, you might still need to take the train.

Here are the rates:

Regular Hours (5am-12mn)
Adult: ¥900 if you reserve in advance, ¥1000 if you book at the airport
Child: ¥500

Late Night/Early Morning (12mn-5am)
Adult: ¥900 if you reserve, ¥2000 if you book at the airport
Child: ¥500 if you reserve, ¥1000 if you book at the airpot

To book in advance, visit the Keisei Bus website and click on the ENGLISH tab in the upper right corner. On the next page, click on TOKYO SHUTTLE. Follow the steps detailed on the next page.

If you’re more comfortable booking online instead, you’ll find bus services from Narita Airport Terminal 1 or 2 to Tokyo City Air Terminal or Tokyo Station.

✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

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Narita Airport to Tokyo by Train

Only Terminals 1 and 2 have their own train station. If you’re landing at Terminal 3, you need to make your way on foot to Terminal 2. You just need to follow the signs. Plenty of ’em around.

The cheapest train option is the Keisei Main Line Limited Express. Depending on where your hotel is located, your route will change and you might need to make a few train switches. To check, visit the Hyperdia website and enter the train station closest to your hotel.

Assuming your hotel is in Ueno, this is how much this train will take you to Keisei-Ueno Station.

Fare: ¥1030 for adult (¥520, child)
Travel time: 70 minutes
Seat: Free seating

Do not confuse this with the Keisei SKYLINER, for which seats are paid and reservations are mandatory. The great thing about the Skyliner though is that it can take you to the city in almost half the time (but for double the price).

Fare: ¥1240
Reserved Seat: ¥1230 (additional fee)
Travel time: 40 minutes (to Ueno)

✅ RESERVE A SKYLINER TICKET HERE!

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More transfer options: To Shinjuku, Tokyo Station and Ueno

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HOW TO GET AROUND TOKYO

Taxis are expensive, and buses can be confusing for first-timers. The train is the most efficient mode of transportation. Tokyo has an expansive railway system. Wherever it is you’re going, there is most likely a train station very close to it.

Tokyo by train can be a bit overwhelming at first, but it’s easy once you get the hang of it. First, bear in mind that the network is used by almost a dozen operators, including those serving the suburbs. However, in this article, let’s focus on the three companies that serve Central Tokyo: JR East, Toei Subway, and Tokyo Metro Subway. Each of them operate multiple lines that get so entangled, it’s amazing how the Japanese make it work.

JR East controls the all-important JR Yamanote Line. Expectedly, this line is used by a good fraction of the population (which is me saying that it’s often crowded, hehe). Aside from Yamanote, JR also runs other lines including Chuo Main, Chuo-Sobu, and the Shinkansen (bullet train).

The subway lines are operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei. Although separate companies, these two are in great synergy. Often, you don’t need to exit the gates and buy new tickets even if you switch from Toei to Metro lines. (There are cases when you do, though.) Subway lines are marked with an assigned letter in a color-coded circle. For example, Shinjuku Line’s mark is an S in a leaf green circle. Mita Line’s mark is a the letter I in a blue circle. Remember these marks and the companies’ logos because this is how you’ll find them.

Tokyo Metro Subway Lines

Toei Subway Lines

You might be thinking, “Oh cool. That looks easy.” Wrong. It seems easy to understand now, but if you’re a Tokyo newbie, it’s a lot more difficult in practice. These lines are so entangled, and when they meet in major stations like Shinkuku or Tokyo, things get even more complicated. Even I, who have been to Tokyo four times, and my sister, who has been living in Tokyo for years, sometimes get awfully lost.

Aside from the lines, you also might need to know the different train types:

• Local Trains are those that stop at every single station of the line. EVERY. SINGLE. STATION. If your stop is 20+ stations away, it can take a lot of time.
• Rapid Trains are those that skip some stations. Same price as local trains. Same platforms, too.
• Express Trains skip even more stations.
• Limited Express stop only at major stations. Additional fee is usually required.

If it entails waiting only a few minutes on the platform, I would usually just choose a rapid or express train even when the a local train is already approaching. WARNING, though: Board the non-local trains only if you’re sure it will make a stop at your station. You don’t wanna skip your stop. True story. Hahaha.

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How to Travel By Train using Single Tickets

1. On your web browser, go to Hyperdia.com/en/. Enter your origin and the station where you’re going. It will then display possible route options including how much the ride costs and transfers needed to get there. At the train station, you can double check the price. Just look at the route map, usually above the ticket machines. The map displays the price based on distance. Sometimes, the map is in Japanese characters only, which is why Hyperdia is useful.
2. Once you know how much you’re gonna pay, approach the ticket machines. By default, these machines display everything in Japanese characters. But there is a button there that reads ENGLISH. Press that button and you will hear a voice saying “All train information will be displayed in English.” (I said it out loud in the right intonation when I typed that. Totoo.)
3. Follow the steps onscreen. Usually, you will need to press the button (next to the screen) that displays how many passengers you are and then press the corresponding price on the screen. Yep, you should know how much you should be paying before using these machines, hence the first two steps. It will then ask you to confirm your booking.
4. Get the tickets that the machine will release. (If after getting the ticket you realize you made a mistake or you just change your mind, don’t worry. Just use the same ticket. Fare adjustment machines are installed at every station. Make the adjustment at the destination.)
5. Feed your ticket to the ticket slots at the gate. It will emerge at the end of the gate. Pick it up again. The ticket is small so try your best not to lose it.
6. Go to the right platform. To check if you’re in the right direction, check the list of stations usually displayed on a wall before the platforms. There is also a more detailed timetable in the middle of the platform.
7. Wait for the right train. The estimated time of arrival of the next few trains and the train type (Rapid, Local, etc) are displayed on electronic screens above the platform.

That’s it! If you get lost or you encounter any problem, don’t hesitate to approach the staff at the window. Every station has one.

Also, if you’re an adult, don’t even try getting a ticket meant for kids just to get a discount. Children’s tickets make a distinct birdy sound when used at the gates to let the staff know that it’s really being used by kids. Yep, birdy.

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How to Buy and Use Suica or Pasmo Card

Prepaid IC Cards are also available. It seldom offers discounts, but the beauty of it is that you don’t need to get a ticket each time you’re using the train. You just need to quickly hover the card over the reader and you’re through.

What’s the difference between Suica and Pasmo? The companies offering it, mainly. Suica is sold by JR while Pasmo by Toei and Tokyo Metro. However, both cards work in any Tokyo Metro, Toei, or JR line. As far as the user experience is concerned, it’s very similar.

To get one, you just need to approach one of the PASMO or SUICA machines at the station. There’s no use for me to enumerate the steps here because it’s so easy. Just choose ENGLISH on the welcome screen and follow the instructions.

These cards can also be used on buses. An increasing number of shops and other establishments are also accepting these cards as mode of payment. You can even use it to buy drinks or snacks from vending machines.

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Tokyo Passes

Several transportation passes are available in Tokyo. Whether or not they’re worth it depends on your itinerary. But here’s the thing. Many of Tokyo’s tourist spots are very close to each other. For example, Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park, and Takeshita-Dori are all in the Harajuku Area. You can definitely walk to get from one site to another. If you plan your trip well, you might not have to take public transportation often. In cases like this, there is no need for a pass.

But if you only have a very limited time in Tokyo and your itinerary is super packed, then go ahead. There are a lot of options. But one of the most convenient is the Tokyo Subway Ticket.

Tokyo Subway Ticket grants you unlimited access to all subway lines (Toei and Tokyo metro, NOT JR). Cost: ¥800 for 24 hours, ¥1200 for 48 hours, and ¥1500 for 72 hours. Available for pickup at Narita and Haneda airport.

✅ GET A TOKYO SUBWAY TICKET HERE!

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THINGS TO DO IN TOKYO

Tokyo is bursting with attractions. There’s no running out of things to do. Like I said, I have been to Tokyo 6 times, but I haven’t been to even half of all the spots I want to visit.

The list below contains some of the city’s key highlights. I also indicated the nearest train station for your reference. I also provided links for those who want to book tickets in advance online.

I will be making a separate post with more options.

Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Sea

Nearest Station: JR Maihama Station (Keiyo Line)

This resort complex comprises Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea.

We have created a separate article about these, with details on how to get there, ticket prices, etc.

More info here: Tokyo Disney Resort Guide

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Tokyo SkyTree

At 634 meters, this is Japan’s tallest structure, offering a panoramic view of the megalopolis. The entrance to the tower is on the fourth level of SkyTree Town. The place is usually packed. If you didn’t make advance reservations, approach the staff by the entrance and they will usually assign a time slot. Sometimes, you’re in for a long wait. We went there at 3pm and was assigned a 5pm slot. Fast tickets are available but they’re double the regular price.

Admission Fee: First observatory, 2060 yen; Second observatory: additional 1030 yen
Nearest Stations: Tokyo SkyTree Station, Oshiage

You can make an advance reservation online. Thera are offers of SkyTree observatory ticket with Asakusa Tour, which will take you to Sensoji Temple and other attractions in Asakusa area!

✅ BUY SKYTREE TICKETS HERE!

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teamLab Planets and teamLab Borderless are two digital art museums that tickle your senses. Both are body immersive so you can actually interact with the installations! I haven’t been to Borderless, but I have visited and thoroughly enjoyed the Planets site.

teamLab PLANETS
Nearest Subway Station: Toyosu (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
Admission fee: ¥3200
✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

teamLab BORDERLESS
Nearest Subway Station: Aomi (Yurikamome Line), Tokyo Teleport (Rinkai Line)
Admission fee: ¥3200
✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

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Ghibli Museum

Nearest Station: Mitaka (JR Chuo Main Line)

It showcases the work of Studio Ghibli, the Japanese animation studio that produced unforgettable movies like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro and was co-founded by Hayao Miyazaki.

Because of its massive popularity and limited number of visitors per day, it’s incredibly difficult to snag a ticket so you need to book in advance. They don’t sell tickets at the museum Book here.

Admission Fee: ¥1000 adult, ¥700 for ages 13-18, ¥400 for ages 7-12, ¥100 for ages 4-6, FREE for under 4yo

If there is nothing available on your date, you can try looking online. The price is higher, but you might still want to consider.

✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

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Sensō-ji (Asakusa Temple)

Tokyo’s oldest temple, it was built in 645 as a tribute to Kannon, the goddess of mercy.

Admission: FREE

Nearest Station: Asakusa

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Harajuku

The Harajuku neighborhood is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the city including:

• Meiji Shrine. A Shinto shrine completed in 1921 in honor of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken.
• Takeshita-dori (Takeshita Street). The epicenter of Tokyo’s teenage culture and an extremely popular shopping street flanked with boutiques and restaurants.
• Yoyogi Park. Where locals meet and socialize, play sports, dance or just hang. There are cherry blossoms here, too, but not as many as those in other parks.

Admission Fee: Entrance to all of the sites above is FREE of charge. However, the teahouse garden next to the Meiji Shrine charges ¥500 per person.

Nearest Station: Harajuku (JR Yamanote Line)

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Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko

Many consider this the world’s busiest intersection. It still baffles me how an intersection became a famous tourist spot, but hey whatever floats your boat. One thing I love doing here though is watch people. Get a seat at nearby Starbucks and go for it.

And oh, the statue of Hachiko, the faithful dog, is just in front of Shibuya Station. You’ll know you’re there when you see a crowd building up for their turn to take a photo.

Admission Fee: FREE
Nearest Station: Shibuya

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Ueno Park

It is surrounded by several museums including the Tokyo National Museum, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, the National Science Museum, and the National Museum for Western Art, and temples including Kaneiji Temple and Kiyomizu Kannon Temple. But Ueno Park is most popular during sakura season! The park nurtures 1000 cherry trees flanking its main pathway.

Admission Fee: The park itself is FREE, but charges apply if you enter the museums.
Nearest Station: Ueno

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Akihabara

The otaku’s ultimate mecca and Tokyo’s quirkiest destination. Here you’ll find several electronic stores, manga shops and cafes, maid cafes, Gundam Cafe, and Tokyo Anime Center.

Nearest Station: Akihabara

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Tokyo Kimono Rental

Wear an authentic kimono or yukata! They will also style your hair appropriately. Once you’re all set, you can explore the streets of Asakusa and go selfie-crazy! Kimono units must be returned before 4:30pm, though.

✅ RESERVE A KIMONO HERE!

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Tokyo One Piece Tower

One Piece is one of the most legendary manga/anime in the world. In Tokyo, you can get lost in its action-packed world in this one-of-a-kind amusement park. Key attractions include Luffy’s Endless Adventures, Brook’s Horror House, and the Soul Edge of Zoro. There’s also a live stage show.

✅ GET YOUR TICKET HERE!

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Robot Restaurant

Be entertained by high-tech laser displays and high-energy robot shows! Food is not included in the rates, but if you book the first performance (4:00pm) on a Saturday or Sunday, you’ll get a JPY500 drink coupon and photo op with the Robots for FREE!

✅ RESERVE A SLOT HERE!

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Other Attractions

• Tokyo Tower is the second tallest structure in Japan, next only to Tokyo Sky Tree. It is a communications tower that was built in 1958 and was inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Today, tourists are welcome to climb to the top observatory to enjoy magnificent views of the city.
  Admission Fee to the observation decks: ¥900 yen (main deck), ¥2800 (both decks).
  Nearest Stations: Onarimon Station (Toei Mita Line), Akabanebashi (Toei Oedo Line)
• Imperial Palace. It remains the official residence of the Imperial Family. Located at the site where Edo Castle used to stand, the Imperial Palace sits at the center of a large park, scribbled with wide green moats and colossal stone dykes. On January 2 and December 23, the Emperor makes an appearance and greets the audience throughout the day.
  Nearest Stations: Otemachi Station (Exit D2), Nijubashi-mae Station (Exit 6), or Tokyo Station (Marunouchi Central Exit).
• Tsukiji Fish Market. This used to be the city’s main fish market until it was moved. But today, it remains a food destination where you can enjoy sushi or sashimi.
  Admission Fee: FREE
  Nearest Station: Tsukiji Shijo (Oedo Subway Line)
• Odaiba. Composed of man-made islands off the coast of the city. Attractions here include a view of the iconic Rainbow Bridge, Fuji TV Building and Leisureland (with a giant arcade, haunted house, ninja illusion house, bowling alleys and more). It’s also a shopping haven with malls like DiverCity Tokyo Plaza and AquaCity, which also houses a ramen theme park on its 5th floor (offering a taste of varieties of ramen from different parts of Japan).
  Nearest Station: Daiba
• Tokyo Dinner Cruise. Perfect for those celebrating a special occasions! This will treat you to a full-course meal as you admire Tokyo Bay’s majestic city lights! Reserve here!
• Ryōgoku is the sumo neighborhood of Tokyo. Here stand the Kokugikan sumo stadium and Sumo Museum. The stadium is where the three Tokyo tournaments are held in January, May and September, each running for 15 days. Although limited number of same-day tickets are available, it is best too book in advance on their official website. General Admission Ticket costs: ¥2200. If there are no sumo tournament at the time of your visit, you may still check out the Sumo Museum. Open Monday to Friday, 10:00 to 16:30. Closed on weekends and national holidays.
  Admission Fee: FREE
  Nearest Station: Ryōgoku (JR and Toei)
• Tokyo Metropolitan Goverment Building (aka Tokyo City Hall, Tōkyō Tochō) has FREE observation decks that provides one of the best vistas of the city. From you can see the Tokyo Tower and the SkyTree! This is the one I recommend because I believe that the best view of Tokyo isn’t FROM the Tokyo Tower or SkyTree but has either of these structures in the frame. You can even see Mt. Fuji on a clear day! And did I mention it’s FREE.
  Nearest Station: Tocho-mae Station (Oedo Subway Line)

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DAY TOURS OUTSIDE TOKYO

Outside of Tokyo but easily accessible are several destinations that may be worth your time, although a trip may set you back a few thousand yen. If you can’t visit all of these, I highly recommend to pick the best at the time of your visit. For example, I went to Lake Kawaguchi in December because I also wanted to ski on the slopes of Mt. Fuji. If I visited during summer, it would have been closed.

Anyway, here are some suggestions. I’ll be writing a separate article for each of these so I could discuss them in detail.

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Mt. Fuji

Hakone offers a closer look at Mt. Fuji. Located 100km from Tokyo, it is one of the favorite day tours among foreign tourists staying in Tokyo. It is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, whose map is shaded with hot springs!

How to get there: From Shinjuku Station, take the train to Hakone-Yumoto Station (2 hours, ¥1190). There are faster trains that could take you there for only 85 minutes but costs ¥1190.

You can also join a group tour! The tour comes with hotel pick up and FREE unlimited wifi! It will allow you to do the following:

• Enjoy a fantastic view of Mt. Fuji
• Cruise around Lake Ashi
• Take a 50-minute ropeway up Mt. Komagatake

✅ BOOK THIS TOUR!

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Lake Kawaguchi

Kawaguchiko is the second largest, the most popular, the most developed, and the most easily accessible of the Fuji Five Lakes. Located in Yamanashi, it is one hour and 20 minutes away from Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station by direct express train, and two hours by bus or local train. The town is part of the Fujisan Cultural Site, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. From here, you can have a great view of Mt. Fuji. It is also a jump off point for Fujiten Ski Resort, one of the only two resorts on the slopes of Mt. Fuji itself.

How to get there: From Shinjuku Station, take the bus to Kawaguchiko (2 hours, ¥1700, one-way) and Tokyo Station (3 hours, ¥1700, one-way). Visit the Fujikyu Bus official website for the schedule and other details.

If you don’t want to DIY it, you can also join a group tour from Tokyo! Stops include Arakurayama Sengen Park, Oishi Park, Lake Sai Iyashi no Sato Gemba Village, and Shiraito Waterfall.

✅ RESERVE A SLOT HERE!

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Fuji-Q Highland

This is for adrenaline junkies and kids at heart. Fuji-Q Highland is an amusement theme park at the base of Mt. Fuji. Not only do you get spectacular views of Mt. Fuji, you also get treated to thrilling rides.

Fuji-Q Highland has four crazy rollercoasters, a haunted hotel, lots of carnival games and other attractions!

A ticket will give you unlimited rides within the theme park.

✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

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Kamakura

Kamakura is often called the Kyoto of Eastern Japan because of its countless shrines, temples, and monuments including a giant bronze statue of Buddha. I also did a bit of trekking in its mountains and had my first glimpse of Mt. Fuji along the way. Kamakura was also home to the greatest samurai swordsmith named Masamune, whose descendant Tsunahiro Yamamura (Masamune XXIV) has been carrying the 700-year sword-making tradition and showcasing it at Masamune Sword and Blade Workshop, which you can visit. You may also buy souvenirs at a 100-year-old sword shop here called Sankai-do.

How to get there: From Tokyo Station, travel by train to Kamakura Station (1 hour, ¥920)

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Yokohama

Yokohama is Japan’s second largest city. It’s also just half an hour from Tokyo. I’ve been to Yokohama twice now and I enjoyed both times, especially because (1) I love ramen and (2) I love arcade games. The Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum and Cup Noodles Museum are both located here. I also adore walking around the Minato Mirai area, especially Cosmo World. The thing with arcades here is that it is easy to win prizes.

How to get there: Use the Tokyu Toyoko Line and board the Express or Limited Express train to Yokohama Station or Minato Mirai Station.

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WHERE TO EAT CHEAP IN TOKYO

It is impossible to talk about Tokyo without a mention of its food. The Japanese take their food very seriously. It has more Michelin-star restaurants than any other city in the world (although most of them are pricey and require reservations months in advance).

Unless you’re cooking, the easiest way to save money on food is to hit the supermarket. Japanese supermarkets sell not just raw ingredients but also cooked ones that you can simply heat or eat right away. Convenience stores serve good meals, too.

But you probably didn’t go to Tokyo just to raid their supermarkets and convenience stores (not that something’s wrong with that, if that’s your thing). Even if you’re running on limited fuel (money!), you can still eat out!

I’ll be writing a separate article listing down some of the city’s more-than-good but (relatively) affordable food places.

Please check back soon.

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WHERE TO SHOP IN TOKYO

We created a separate post for this.

Read it here: 10 Places to Shop in Tokyo

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SAMPLE TOKYO ITINERARY WITH BREAKDOWN OF EXPENSES

To save time, energy, and money, build your itinerary well. Visit attractions close to each other on the same day. For example, the Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Yoyogi Park, and Shibuya Crossing area can all be explored on foot in one day.

Here’s a sample Tokyo itinerary that I think is great for a first-timer. This itinerary assumes the following:

• For breakfast, hit the convenience store for some cheap food like onigiri (rice balls with filling) or sandwich. Don’t worry, you’ll be eating at proper food places for lunch and dinner.
• For lunch or dinner, your food budget is ¥1000-¥1500 per meal. That’s actually too much. You can find ramen places that offer ¥500-800 per bowl. But let’s add some allowance. You can go over the budget, but make sure you make up for it next time.

It includes a visit to the city’s key attractions as well as a day trip to Lake Kawaguchi to admire Mt. Fuji OR Tokyo Disneyland.

Day 1: UENO & AKIHABARA
10:30 am – Airport to Tokyo, ¥1030
12:00 nn – Check-in or drop baggage
01:00 pm – Lunch at Ichiran, ¥1250
02:00 pm – Ueno Park + Tokyo National Museum, ¥620
04:30 pm – Train to Akihabara, ¥140
04:10 pm – Explore Akihabara
07:00 pm – Walk to Ameyoko Market
07:30 pm – Dinner at Ameyoko, ¥1000
09:00 pm – Back to hotel, sleep!

Day 2: SHIBUYA
08:00 am – Ueno to Harajuku Station, ¥200
08:30 am – Meiji Shrine & Yoyogi Park – FREE
11:30 am – Takeshita Dori (Harajuku) – FREE
01:00 pm – Lunch at Harajuku Gyoza Ro, ¥1000
03:00 pm – Shibuya Crossing + Hachiko + shop around
07:00 pm – Afuri Ramen, ¥1500
09:30 pm – Back to Hotel

Day 3: ASAKUSA & ODAIBA
09:00 am – Ueno to Sensoji (Asakusa) – ¥170
09:30 am – Sensoji Temple
11:30 am – Daikokuya Tempura, ¥1500
12:45 pm – Train to Aomi Station, ¥610
02:00 pm – teamLab Borderless, ¥3200
05:30 pm – Explore Odaiba
07:00 pm – Dinner, ¥1200
08:00 pm – Train to hotel, ¥480
09:00 pm – Back to hotel

Day 4 Option A: TOKYO DISNEYLAND OR DISNEYSEA
08:00 am – Ueno to Maihama Station – ¥390
08:40 am – Disney Resort Monorail – ¥260
09:00 am – Disneyland/DisneySea* – ¥7400 + ¥3000 food budget
10:00 pm – Monorail to Maihama – ¥260
10:20 pm – Maihama to Ueno – ¥390

Day 4 Option B: LAKE KAWAGUCHI
07:00 am – Wait for pickup at JR Ueno Station
07:30 am – Lake Kawaguchi Tour, ¥7680, Book here!
06:00 pm – End tour, drop off in Shinjuku
06:30 pm – Explore Shinjuku
07:30 pm – Dinner, ¥1200
09:00 pm – Train to Ueno, ¥200
09:30 pm – Back to hotel

Day 5: DEPARTURE
10:00am – Check out
11:30am – Tokyo to Narita – ¥1030

If your lodging budget is ¥4200 per person per night, the itinerary above will set you back a total of ¥47,000 (USD 427, EUR 384, SGD 574, PHP 21,720), excluding airfare, travel taxes and shopping expenses.

If you’re able to snag roundtrip airfare for only PHP 6000, the above itinerary will cost a total of PHP 29,500 (including airfare and travel tax).

The total figures above budget already include some allowance for miscellaneous incidentals but it’s best to add more to make room for price adjustments and other expenses that we might have missed.

Note that the biggest chunk of the budget goes to Disneyland or Mt. Fuji/Lake Kawaguchi. If you replace it with a cheaper destination, the total will drop significantly.

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MORE TIPS FOR THE POOR TRAVELER

• Tipping is not common in Tokyo. To settle your bill, you are expected to approach the cashier on your way out. The cashier is usually stationed by the entrance/exit.
• Some restaurants and eateries have a ticket machine by the entrance. The menu is displayed and you just need to press the buttons corresponding your order and enter payment, and it will dispense your tickets.
• Many vending machines serve both cold and hot drinks. Most people are surprised to learn about the hot options. Really helpful when you’re out in the cold.
• Japanese bills look alike (same color). What varies is the size of the bill. The ¥1000 and ¥10,000 can be confusing so be careful. However, the Japanese are highly UNLIKELY to take advantage. They will even be the first to tell you.
• When using the escalator, keep left if you’re not moving.
• Be quiet inside the train. It’s seldom that you find people having loud conversations onboard. When it happens, they’re usually tourists.
• If you have a cold or cough, wear surgical masks in public. Locals wear those not because they don’t want to get sick but because they don’t want to pass on the illness to others.
• Learn a few Japanese phrases. The most useful would be Sumimasen (Excuse me, sorry) and Arigatoo gozaimasu (Thank you).

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