Explore Tokyo's vibrant streets, indulge in delicious food tours, escape to nature's beauty, experience thrilling nightlife, and discover hidden gems in this ultimate 3-day itinerary.
Day 1 in Tokyo: Immerse Yourself in Tokyo's Vibrant Culture
Explore the Iconic Senso-ji Temple
Start your day with a visit to Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest temple, and experience its serene atmosphere, especially beautiful in the evenings.
Wander Through Nakamise-dori Street
Afterward, stroll through Nakamise-dori, a charming shopping street leading to Senso-ji Temple, filled with traditional crafts and delicious snacks.
Experience the Nostalgic Atmosphere of Hanayashiki Amusement Park
Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to Hanayashiki Amusement Park, a traditional Japanese amusement park with a nostalgic atmosphere.
Watch a Sumo Wrestling Practice
For a unique cultural experience, watch a sumo wrestling practice at a stable, a fascinating glimpse into this traditional Japanese sport.
Day 2 in Tokyo: Discover Tokyo's Modern Side
Explore Tokyo's Themed Enchantments
Begin your day with a visit to TeamLab Planets, a digital art museum with large-scale interactive exhibits, and immerse yourself in a sensory experience.
Discover Contemporary Art at the Mori Art Museum
Continue your exploration of modern art at the Mori Art Museum, offering stunning city views from its rooftop.
Experience the Glamour of Ginza
Indulge in some retail therapy in Ginza, a high-end shopping district with department stores and boutiques, and experience the glamour of Tokyo's fashion scene.
Experience Tokyo's Neon-Lit Nights
As the sun sets, explore Shinjuku's vibrant nightlife, including bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, and experience the city's energy after dark.
Day 3 in Tokyo: Escape the City Bustle
Escape the City Bustle in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Start your day with a visit to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a tranquil oasis with traditional Japanese gardens and a greenhouse, and escape the city's hustle and bustle.
Stroll Through Yoyogi Park
Continue your nature escape with a stroll through Yoyogi Park, admiring the changing leaves in autumn or cherry blossoms in spring, on your way to Meiji Jingu Shrine.
Attend the Meiji Autumn Festival
Experience the vibrant Meiji Autumn Festival, with traditional Japanese events like music performances and archery, and immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
Enjoy a Scenic Hike Up Mount Takao
For a more adventurous escape, enjoy a scenic hike up Mount Takao, with views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji, and experience the beauty of nature outside the city.
References
- Cheap Things to Do in Tokyo
- 25 Best Things to Do in Tokyo Japan for First-Time Visitors
- A Travel Guide To Tokyo: 11 Things To Know While Planning Your Trip
- 2 Week Japan Itinerary: Tokyo
- 17 Unmissable Things to do in Tokyo, Japan
- 3 Day Itinerary For Tokyo | What To do in Tokyo in 3 Days
- 38 Best Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan
- An Incredible Tokyo Itinerary: Food, Activities, Culture And More
- The Perfect TOKYO 4-day Itinerary (2023)
- 10 Events and things to do in Japan in November
- Tokyo autumn leaves forecast 2023 — 13 best autumn spots in Tokyo & best place to see autumn leaves in Tokyo
Weather in Tokyo
In November, Tokyo's autumn weather is generally mild and comfortable, with average high temperatures ranging from 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F) and average low temperatures ranging from 3°C to 9°C (37°F to 48°F). It's a great time to visit Tokyo, with fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities. When packing for your trip, consider bringing layers of clothing, including light jackets, sweaters, and warm coats, as well as comfortable shoes for walking. Don't forget to bring an umbrella, as November is still a relatively wet month in Tokyo, with an average of 3.6 inches (9 cm) of precipitation. Additionally, consider bringing a scarf or hat to protect yourself from the occasional cold wind. Overall, November is a wonderful time to experience Tokyo's autumn foliage, and with proper packing, you'll be ready to enjoy all that the city has to offer.
Transportation in Tokyo
To get around Tokyo, Japan, I recommend using the city's efficient public transportation system, which includes trains, subways, and buses. You can buy a prepaid Suica or Pasmo card, which can be purchased at many convenience stores, to freely use all train, subway, and bus networks. If you plan to take multiple trains or subways, consider getting a one-day pass for either the subway or JR trains, which can be purchased at ticket vending machines at their respective stations. Additionally, if you have a JR Rail Pass, some buses and trains in the cities are included. The trains and subways run like clockwork and are incredibly safe and clean, with multiple competing lines run by different companies. You can also use taxis for private travel, but be prepared to pay a higher rate. If you're short on time, consider taking a Tokyo transit tour from the airport, which lasts around 5 hours.
Dos in Tokyo
- Learn a few simple Japanese phrases to show respect and appreciation for the culture.
- Remove your shoes before entering someone's home as a sign of respect.
- Bow as a form of greeting to show respect and politeness.
- Make time to sit down and enjoy your food to appreciate the culinary experience.
- Slurp your soup, it's okay to pick up a bowl as it's a common practice in Japan.
- Call out 'Sumimasen!' to get a waiter's attention instead of waving or shouting.
Don'ts in Tokyo
- Don't tip at restaurants as it's not part of Japanese culture.
- Don't leave chopsticks standing upright in a bowl as it's considered impolite.
- Don't share food with others using chopsticks as it's considered unhygienic.
- Don't use chopsticks for anything else than eating to avoid offending locals.