5 Days in Tokyo Itinerary: Complete Guide + Nikko Day Trip

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Tokyo is a city that sweeps you off your feet from the moment you arrive—a dazzling blend of neon skylines, tranquil gardens, centuries-old temples, and some of the best food you’ll ever taste. When I spent 17 days in Japan, I started my trip right here in the capital, and it was the perfect way to dive into the country’s rhythm.

In this 5 Days in Tokyo itinerary, I’ll take you through my favorite neighborhoods, must-see sights, local food spots, and cultural experiences that will make your first visit unforgettable. We’ll also venture beyond the city for a magical day trip to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where ornate shrines meet dramatic waterfalls and serene nature trails. Whether you’re into ancient traditions, cutting-edge trends, or want to experience Tokyo’s electric energy, I’ve compiled this guide to help you make the most of your stay in Tokyo.

5 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

Day 1 – First Impressions of Tokyo: Shibuya, Harajuku & Ginza

For our first day in Tokyo, our base was in Ginza—a sleek, upscale neighborhood known for luxury boutiques, art galleries, and some of the city’s finest dining. Staying here meant we could easily reach both modern hotspots and traditional landmarks. We arrived in Tokyo in the early afternoon, giving us enough time to start our day by exploring the following: 

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue

We began the day in Shibuya, home to the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection: Shibuya Crossing. Even during the day, the sight of hundreds of people streaming across from every direction was a thrilling introduction to Tokyo’s energy.

Just outside Shibuya Station stands the Hachiko Statue, a touching tribute to the loyal Akita dog who waited for his owner every day for nearly 10 years, even after his passing. It’s a popular meeting spot and one of Tokyo’s most photographed landmarks.

Tip: For the best photo of Shibuya Crossing, head to the second floor of the Starbucks in Tsutaya or the viewing area in Shibuya Sky.

We also decided to visit Shibuya Crossing during the evening hours; the experience is entirely different from that of earlier in the day. If you have time, I would recommend that you see it both during the day and in the evening.

Meiji Jingu Shrine

Next, we escaped the city buzz with a walk through the tranquil forest paths leading to Meiji Jingu, Tokyo’s most important Shinto shrine. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji (1852–1912) and Empress Shoken, the shrine honors the imperial couple who played a pivotal role in Japan’s modernization during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Emperor Meiji is remembered for guiding Japan through the Meiji Restoration. This transformative era opened the country to the world after centuries of isolation, blending traditional values with modern innovation.

The approach begins at the massive Torii Gate, symbolizing the transition from the secular to the sacred. As we walked along the gravel path shaded by towering evergreen trees, the urban noise faded into the rustle of leaves. Along the way, we passed the sake barrel collection, brightly decorated barrels donated by sake brewers across Japan to honor the deities and symbolize unity between culture, agriculture, and spirituality. Opposite them are rows of wine barrels from France—reflecting Emperor Meiji’s openness to international influence.

At the heart of the complex lies the main sanctuary, a serene space where visitors can make wishes on wooden ema plaques, watch Shinto wedding processions, or pause in the peaceful courtyard. Meiji Jingu is a cultural bridge, embodying the harmony between tradition and progress that defines modern Japan.

Tip: If your schedule allows it, the best time to experience Meiji Shrine is early in the morning when the crowds are lighter. You might like to opt for this Full-Day Sightseeing Bus Tour (Visit Meiji Shrine, Asakusa, and Tokyo Sky Tree, taste matcha, and enjoy a ferry cruise through the city).

Takeshita Street, Harajuku

We then dove straight into Tokyo’s playful, eccentric side at Takeshita Street in Harajuku. This narrow, colorful shopping street is the heart of Tokyo’s youth culture, famous for bold fashion statements, themed cafes, and crepe stands. You’ll spot everything from pastel “kawaii” looks to punk-inspired outfits—street style here is an art form.

Evening in Ginza

We ended our first day back in Ginza, where neon lights reflect off sleek glass facades and the atmosphere is a perfect blend of elegance and buzz. We wandered past flagship stores and enjoyed dinner in one of the many upscale sushi or kaiseki restaurants the district is famous for.

Tip: If you visit in the evening, walk along Chuo-dori Street, which glows beautifully at night.

Day 2 in Tokyo – History, Culture & City Views

Our second day in Tokyo, we explored the city’s many layers of history— from samurai loyalty and imperial grandeur to tranquil gardens, spiritual landmarks, and sweeping skyline views. Unfortunately, we were not very lucky with the weather, as it rained a lot during our trip in March. We had come during this time, intending to see the Cherry blossoms, known as sakura; however, due to cold weather, the blooming season was delayed.

Statue of Kusunoki Masashige

We began our morning at the Statue of Kusunoki Masashige, an imposing bronze monument just outside the Imperial Palace grounds.

Kusunoki was a 14th-century samurai celebrated for his unwavering loyalty to Emperor Go-Daigo during the Genkō War. His story is one of selflessness—famously sacrificing his life in battle for the imperial cause. The statue, with Masashige on horseback clad in armor, is a symbol of devotion and honor, standing proudly against the backdrop of Tokyo’s modern skyline.

Tokyo Imperial Palace

From there, we walked to the Tokyo Imperial Palace, the primary residence of Japan’s Imperial Family. Built on the former site of Edo Castle, the palace complex is surrounded by stone walls, wide moats, and beautifully manicured gardens.

While the inner grounds are only open to the public on January 2 (New Year’s Greeting) and February 23 (Emperor’s Birthday), you can still admire its grandeur from the famous Nijubashi Bridge. The contrast between the serene palace grounds and the bustling Marunouchi business district just beyond the moat is striking. You might like to book this Tokyo: Imperial Palace & Tokyo Castle History Walking Tour

Tip: The Imperial East Gardens are open to visitors year-round and are especially beautiful in spring and autumn.

Japanese Sword Museum (Tōken hakubutsukan)

Next, we visited the Japanese Sword Museum. If you’re interested in samurai heritage and craftsmanship, this small museum is worth a visit, and its exhibits are quite comprehensive. The museum was established in 1968 to preserve and exhibit Japanese swords, but also to educate the public on the sword-related culture. In Japan, a sword is regarded as a cultural asset, with over 1000 years of history, and it has played a crucial role in Japan, both historically and culturally.

Here you can admire centuries-old katana, tachi, and wakizashi, each displayed like a work of art. Informative displays explain the sword-making process—from forging the steel to the meticulous polishing and mounting. The museum also houses the Tachi Nobuypshi sword, which is a national treasure of Japan.

Kyu Yasuda Garden

As you step outside the Japanese Sword Museum, you will walk right into the Kyu Yasuda Garden, a small yet exquisitely designed Japanese landscape garden dating back to the Edo period.

It was once the estate of a feudal lord, and it’s now a peaceful public space with a central pond, arched bridges, and stepping stones. The garden is designed so that every angle offers a different view, making it a quiet oasis in the middle of the city.

And here comes the delightful surprise: right next door is the Ryōgoku Kokugikan (also known as the Kokugikan National Sumo Arena), the spiritual home of sumo wrestling. This iconic stadium opened in 1985 and hosts three of the six Grand Sumo tournaments in Tokyo each year: January, May, and September. Even when matches aren’t taking place, the adjacent free Sumo Museum offers a small but spirited glimpse into sumo rituals, wrestlers’ aprons, and ceremonial gear. You might like to experience the thrill of a tournament, so book this Sumo Tournament Tour with Chair Seat Tickets.

Directly beside the arena is Edo Noren, a sumo-themed dining and shopping complex designed like a traditional Edo-period street. Its ground floor also boasts a full-size dohyo (sumo ring), a perfect replica of the one used in official tournaments. It’s a fantastic photo spot—though visitors are kindly asked not to step inside the ring. Inside, we came across many local students who were dressed in kimonos, and I couldn’t resist taking a photo with them.

Tokyo Skytree

By midday, we headed to Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan at 634 meters. Completed in 2012, the Skytree isn’t just a tourist attraction—it serves a vital role as a broadcasting tower for television and radio signals, replacing the aging Tokyo Tower, which had become too short to transmit effectively amidst the city’s growing skyline.

Beyond its practical use, the Skytree houses two observation decks at 350 meters and 450 meters, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Tokyo and, on clear days, even Mount Fuji. Unfortunately, we had low visibility as it was raining from the morning.

The base of the tower, known as Tokyo Solamachi, is a shopping and entertainment complex filled with boutiques, restaurants, and attractions like the Sumida Aquarium and the Postal Museum.

Tip: Book your tickets in advance to skip long lines, especially if you want to visit during sunset.

Senso-ji Temple & Asakusa

We then headed towards Asakusa, a district where Tokyo’s old soul is still alive on every side street and shopfront. Its highlight is the Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temple, founded in 645 AD. Legend says two fishermen discovered a statue of the bodhisattva Kannon in the Sumida River, and the village built a temple to honor her—a place that has drawn pilgrims for more than a millennium.

Our visit began at the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), with its massive red lantern and imposing guardian statues welcoming you into the sacred approach. From there, we entered the bustling Nakamise shopping street, a 250-meter stretch lined with nearly 90 shops selling traditional snacks, crafts, and souvenirs.

Here you can sample fresh ningyoyaki (small sponge cakes filled with red bean paste), crispy senbei rice crackers, and matcha soft serve, or browse stalls selling yukata, folding fans, and handmade chopsticks. We also came across a store selling the most delicious apple pie.

Check out my post: The Ultimate Japanese Food Guide: 31 Must-Try Foods and Drinks

If you are looking to buy a kimono or a kimono jacket (haori), many secondhand stores are selling beautiful pieces at a fraction of the price. The price of a used kimono in stores ranges from approximately 2,000 to 5,000 JPY (~$13–35 USD). The one I bought at a store in Asakura was at 5,000 JPY.

Tip: Visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive, or come at night when the temple and gate are beautifully illuminated.

Evening at Conrad Tokyo

We concluded the day at Conrad Tokyo, enjoying a glass of red wine and sweeping night views from TwentyEight Bar & Lounge. The shimmering lights over Tokyo Bay and Shiodome created a fittingly elegant end to our second day in Tokyo.

Day 3 – Day Trip to Nikko: Nature and Temples

On our third day in Japan, we took a day trip to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site about two hours north of the capital. Famous for its ornate shrines, pristine lakes, and dramatic waterfalls. Check out this Nikko World Heritage Private Day Trip Hotel Pick-up

Lake Chuzenji

Our first stop was Lake Chuzenji, a shimmering lake set at the foot of Mount Nantai. To our surprise, the area surrounding the lake was covered in snow, so we couldn’t walk around that much. I’m pretty sure that it’s magical during the warmer months when you can walk around or sit in one of the lakeside cafes.

The lake was created by a volcanic eruption over 20,000 years ago. It sits at an altitude of 1,269 meters. The views here are stunning, with the deep blue water framed by forested mountains.

Nikko National Park & Kegon Falls

From the lake, we made our way to Kegon Falls, the most famous of Nikko’s many waterfalls and one of Japan’s top three. Here, the Daiya River plunges nearly 100 meters into a rocky basin, creating a thundering spectacle. An elevator takes you to a lower observation platform where you can feel the mist on your skin and hear the roar up close.

Surrounded by Nikko National Park’s lush greenery, I’m pretty sure that the falls are especially magical in autumn when the surrounding foliage turns brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold.

Toshogu Shrine

No trip to Nikko would be complete without visiting Toshogu Shrine, the lavish resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of Edo-period craftsmanship, with over 5,000 intricate wood carvings, vibrant lacquer work, and gold leaf details.

One of the most awe-inspiring features is the Yomeimon Gate, often called the “Gate of the Setting Sun” because visitors could admire it from dawn to dusk without tiring of its beauty. Decorated with over 500 carvings—ranging from mythical beasts to Chinese sages—it’s considered one of Japan’s most beautiful gates and a National Treasure.

Other highlights inside Toshogu include:

• The Sanjiko (Three Sacred Storehouses) – Kamijinko, Nakajinko, and Shimojinko, which hold costumes and equipment for sacred processions, including elaborate horse tack. The gable of Kamijinko features the famous “imaginary elephants” designed by Kano Tanyu.
• The Sacred Stable (Shinkyusha) – Home to the shrine’s sacred horse and decorated with the famous “Three Wise Monkeys” carving: see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.
• Nemuri-neko (Sleeping Cat) – A small yet masterful carving symbolizing peace, positioned above a passageway leading to Ieyasu’s mausoleum.
• Five-Story Pagoda – Painted in vivid red and gold, it stands at the shrine’s entrance, symbolizing the five elements of Buddhist cosmology.

The shrine blends Shinto and Buddhist elements in a way that reflects the spiritual and political vision of the Tokugawa shogunate. Surrounded by towering cedar trees, the shrine feels both grand and deeply serene.

Shinkyo Bridge

Our final stop was the Shinkyo Bridge, an elegant vermillion-lacquered structure arching over the Daiya River at the entrance to Nikko’s sacred shrines.

Considered one of Japan’s most beautiful bridges, it belongs to the Futarasan Shrine and is steeped in legend—said to have been created by two snakes to allow a priest to cross the river centuries ago. Today, it’s a picture-perfect spot, especially in autumn when the surrounding trees frame it in fiery hues.

Tip: If you’re doing Nikko as a day trip, start early—many sites close by 4 or 5 pm, and you’ll want plenty of time to explore without rushing. Comfortable shoes are a must, as the shrine and temple areas involve walking and some stairs.

Day 4 in Tokyo – Markets, Museums & Modern Tokyo

By our fourth day in Tokyo, we were starting to feel the rhythm of the city—early mornings filled with history and food, followed by afternoons of exploration, and evenings drenched in neon light. Today’s route took us from temples and fish markets to seaside parks and digital art, tied together by the marvel that is Japan’s public transportation system.

Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

We began our morning at Tsukiji Hongwanji, a Buddhist temple unlike any other in Tokyo. Its striking architecture stands out immediately: designed in the 1930s by renowned architect Ito Chuta, the building blends ancient Indian and Buddhist motifs with classical Western elements. At first glance, it looks more like a stone temple from the banks of the Ganges than something you’d expect to find in the heart of Tokyo. Inside, the main hall is calm and welcoming, adorned with golden ornamentation, chandeliers, and even stained-glass windows.

The temple has a long and storied past. Originally founded in 1617 near Asakusa, it was destroyed in the Great Fire of the Meireki era (1657) and later rebuilt in 1679 at its current location. Tragedy struck again in 1923, when the Great Kanto Earthquake reduced it to ruins. The present worship hall, completed in 1934, reflects Ito Chuta’s vision of a temple that bridges cultures and architectural styles.

The name Tsukiji itself means “reclaimed land,” as this area was once created from land taken back from the sea. In earlier centuries, there were as many as 58 temples clustered here, standing side by side in what is now the vicinity of the famous Tsukiji Outer Market.

Today, Tsukiji Hongwanji is not only a spiritual site but also a cultural hub. It regularly hosts musical performances, lectures, and daily prayers, welcoming both locals and travelers into its unique space.

Tsukiji Fish Market

Just around the corner lies the Tsukiji Outer Market, a true paradise for food lovers. Though the wholesale tuna auctions have moved to Toyosu, Tsukiji remains alive with energy. Narrow alleys brim with stalls selling everything from the freshest sushi and sashimi to tamagoyaki (rolled omelets), dried seaweed, and wagyu meat. It’s one of the best places to sample Tokyo’s culinary heartbeat. You might like to check out this 2-hour Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Walking Tour

Tip: Try a sushi breakfast here—there’s nothing quite like watching the market wake up while savoring melt-in-your-mouth toro. Check out this Toyosu Tuna Auction+Seafood Breakfast/Tsukiji Stroll

Also, check out my post: 7 Food Markets You Must Visit in Japan

Tokyo National Museum

From food to culture, our next stop was the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park, Japan’s oldest and largest museum. With over 110,000 objects in its collection—including samurai armor, ancient scrolls, delicate ceramics, and Buddhist statues—it offers a sweeping journey through Japan’s history and art.

The museum’s Japanese Gallery (Honkan) is a must, presenting the evolution of Japanese aesthetics from prehistoric Jomon pottery to Edo-period paintings.

The museum sits inside Ueno Park, one of Tokyo’s most beloved green spaces and a top destination for sakura (cherry blossom) viewing each spring. Pathways transform into tunnels of soft pink, drawing locals and visitors alike for hanami picnics under the blossoms. During our visit, however, the trees had not yet bloomed—we visited the park at the end of our trip, but sadly, due to cold weather, the blooming season was delayed. If you do come here during the sakura season, you can combine it with a visit to the museum.

Odaiba Seaside Park & Statue of Liberty

In the afternoon, we crossed the Rainbow Bridge into Odaiba, a futuristic entertainment hub set on an artificial island in Tokyo Bay.

We strolled along Odaiba Seaside Park, a breezy waterfront promenade with views of the bay and the city skyline. Here we also visited the Statue of Liberty replica, a surprising sight gifted temporarily by France in the 1990s and now a permanent fixture. With the Rainbow Bridge as a backdrop, it’s a playful nod to Tokyo’s cosmopolitan flair.

Rather than retracing our steps, we boarded the futuristic Himiko ferry, designed by manga legend Leiji Matsumoto. With its sleek, spaceship-like curves and panoramic windows, the ferry felt like part sightseeing boat, part sci-fi fantasy. The cruise across Tokyo Bay gave us a fresh perspective of the skyline, gliding past modern architecture and gleaming bridges. It was a tranquil interlude before diving back into Tokyo’s vibrant chaos, and an experience I highly recommend.

Akihabara – Electric Town

After our serene boat ride, we dove straight into the buzz of Akihabara, Tokyo’s legendary “Electric Town.”

Originally a post-war hub for household electronics and radios, Akihabara grew into a sprawling marketplace for gadgets, computers, and appliances during Japan’s tech boom of the 1980s. Today, it has transformed yet again— it’s the beating heart of otaku culture, with its endless anime, manga, gaming, and idol merchandise.

Towering buildings are stacked floor after floor with specialty shops—retro video games on one level, collectible figurines on another, and walls lined with shelves of manga and DVDs. Bright billboards feature beloved anime characters, while shopkeepers call out special deals on the latest electronics.

But Akihabara isn’t just about shopping—it’s about experiences. You can visit a maid café, where servers dressed in frilly costumes greet you with playful rituals, or try your luck in one of the sprawling arcades, packed with claw machines, rhythm games, and classic titles. For fans of Japanese pop culture, Akihabara is like a pilgrimage.

teamLab Planets Tokyo

As night fell, we experienced one of Tokyo’s most surreal attractions: teamLab Planets Tokyo. Unlike a typical museum, this digital art space immerses you in interactive, ever-changing installations that combine light, sound, and water. Walking barefoot through mirrored rooms, water pools, and flower universes felt like stepping into another dimension—an unforgettable highlight of the trip.

I advise you to book your tickets online as they operate on a time slot basis. You leave your belongings in a designated locker. Make sure to wear something that you can easily roll up to your knees, as you will be walking through water in some parts of the experience.

Getting There: Tokyo’s Metro System & Monorail Ride

To reach teamLab from Ginza, we took the Tokyo Monorail, gliding past sparkling cityscapes and glimpses of the bay. The ride itself felt like part of the adventure.

Navigating Tokyo’s metro system might seem intimidating at first, with its maze of lines and multiple operators (Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway, JR East). Still, it’s one of the most efficient systems in the world. Trains run with clockwork precision, stations are spotless, and signage is clear in both Japanese and English. A prepaid IC card like Suica or Pasmo makes traveling seamless—tap in and out. Within a couple of days, we found ourselves hopping between neighborhoods with ease, marveling at how connected the city truly is. Also, the locals are extremely helpful; on numerous occasions, they walked with us to show us the right direction.

Day 5 – Shinjuku Nights, Ueno Culture & A Farewell to Tokyo

For my final day in Tokyo, I returned after traveling through other parts of Japan. My trip had started with four nights in Ginza, but for this last stretch, I chose to stay in Shinjuku, one of the city’s most dynamic districts. Spending my final night and day here gave me an entirely new perspective on Tokyo—a place that never sleeps.

Ueno Park & Cherry Blossoms

Earlier in the day, I ventured back to Ueno Park, one of Tokyo’s most famous green spaces and a beloved spot for sakura (cherry blossom) viewing. Unfortunately, the weather had other plans—it was raining, and the blossoms had barely opened yet. Instead of pastel canopies and festive hanami picnics, the park felt quieter, with umbrellas moving slowly along the damp paths. Our program was designed so that we would witness this magical event of the year at the end of our 17-day Japan trip; unfortunately, as with everything in life, you never know or can’t always plan.

It’s also worth noting that the timing of the sakura varies each year depending on weather conditions. In Tokyo, cherry blossoms typically bloom from late March to early April, but a colder spring can delay them, just as an early warm spell can bring them ahead of schedule.

Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum

Since it was raining, we decided to dedicate some time to art. Within Ueno Park lies the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, another highlight of the day. Opened in 1926 as Japan’s first public art museum, it hosts an ever-changing rotation of exhibitions, from classical masters to contemporary Japanese artists.

The museum’s clean, modern design makes it easy to explore, and it was a fitting way to end my cultural journey in Tokyo—quietly admiring works that reflect both global and local perspectives.

Shinjuku & Kabukicho

From the moment I stepped into Shinjuku, I felt the shift in energy. Skyscrapers tower above bustling streets, and the air hums with a mix of business buzz by day and entertainment by night.

At the heart of it lies Kabukicho, Tokyo’s famous nightlife district. Nicknamed the “Sleepless Town,” Kabukicho is filled with restaurants, bars, karaoke parlors, and neon billboards. While it has a reputation as Tokyo’s red-light district, it’s also one of the most photogenic places in the city at night—vivid, chaotic, and endlessly fascinating.

Golden Gai

Tucked away just a short walk from Kabukicho is Golden Gai, a cluster of narrow alleyways that feels like stepping into old Tokyo. Around 200 tiny bars—many with space for fewer than 10 people—line these streets. Each bar has its character, from jazz dens and whisky lounges to quirky themed hideouts.

Tip: Many Golden Gai bars have a small cover charge, and some are regulars-only, but plenty welcome visitors. Arrive early in the evening to find a good spot.

Maiko Photoshoot in Asakusa

Before leaving Tokyo, we decided to do something truly memorable. While many visitors save the iconic maiko (apprentice geisha) photoshoot for Kyoto, the weather during our time there had been too cold. With a little extra time in Tokyo, we discovered Cocomo Studio in Asakusa (Cocomo Tokyo), a place that specializes in traditional kimono styling, hair, and makeup.

The experience was magical—transforming into a maiko with exquisite makeup, a beautifully patterned kimono, and styled hair felt like stepping into another era. The studio provided not just the outfits but also a professional photoshoot, capturing the elegance and detail of every look. You will receive the photos by email, but we have also asked them to save them on a USB stick.

A Final Farewell

My journey had begun here with excitement and curiosity, and now it ended with a sense of connection. I absolutely loved Japan, and hopefully I will be lucky enough to return here soon. Tokyo is a city of contrasts—sacred shrines and futuristic skylines, tranquil gardens and sleepless neighborhoods—and spending time in both Ginza and Shinjuku gave me the perfect balance of perspectives.