4 Days in Tokyo: Culture, Food, & History Itinerary

Explore Tokyo's vibrant culture, indulge in delicious food tours, and immerse yourself in history at ancient temples and shrines. This 4-day itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in the heart of Japan.

Day 1 in Tokyo: Discover Tokyo's Rich History and Culture

Explore the Asakusa District

Step back in time in Asakusa, Tokyo's oldest district, where traditional shops, temples, and a unique local atmosphere await. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of this historic neighborhood.

Explore the Imperial Palace Gardens

Escape the city bustle and discover the serene gardens surrounding the Emperor's residence, a peaceful oasis within the bustling city. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the tranquility of this historic site.

Visit the Tokyo National Museum

Delve into Japan's rich art and cultural heritage at the Tokyo National Museum, showcasing a vast collection of Japanese art and artifacts. Discover the beauty and significance of traditional Japanese art and culture.

Visit the Ueno Park

Enjoy the vast expanse of Ueno Park, a popular spot for relaxation and sightseeing. Explore the park's museums, temples, and gardens, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Day 2 in Tokyo: Experience the Vibrant Energy of Tokyo

Explore Akihabara

Immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of Akihabara, a district known for its electronics, anime, and manga shops. Explore the latest gadgets, browse through anime merchandise, and experience the unique culture of this vibrant district.

Walk across Shibuya Crossing

Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing, a bustling intersection known for its vibrant energy and impressive scale. Witness the synchronized flow of pedestrians and capture the energy of this iconic landmark.

Wander Takeshita Street

Explore Harajuku's vibrant street, known for its unique fashion, quirky shops, and colorful street food. Discover the latest trends in Japanese fashion, indulge in sweet treats, and soak in the youthful energy of this trendy district.

Shop in Ginza

Experience the glamour of Ginza, a high-end shopping district with department stores and boutiques. Browse through luxury brands, indulge in fine dining, and soak in the sophisticated atmosphere of this iconic district.

Day 3 in Tokyo: Explore Tokyo's Natural Beauty and Tranquility

Explore the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Escape the city bustle in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a tranquil oasis with traditional Japanese gardens and a greenhouse. Take a leisurely stroll through the serene gardens, admire the colorful blooms, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Visit the Hama Rikyu Gardens

Explore the serene Hama Rikyu Gardens, a former Imperial garden now a public park. Stroll through the beautiful gardens, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and admire the traditional Japanese architecture.

Visit the Koishikawa Korakuen Garden

Stroll through the beautiful Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, one of Tokyo's oldest and most beautiful traditional gardens. Admire the meticulously designed landscapes, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and immerse yourself in the beauty of traditional Japanese gardens.

Have a Picnic in Yoyogi Park

Enjoy a relaxing picnic amidst the cherry blossoms in Yoyogi Park, a popular spot for hanami (flower viewing). Soak in the beauty of the blooming cherry trees, enjoy a delicious picnic lunch, and experience the joy of hanami.

Day 4 in Tokyo: Immerse Yourself in Tokyo's Unique Experiences

Explore Tokyo's Themed Enchantments

Immerse yourself in the sensory experience of TeamLab Planets, a digital art museum with large-scale interactive exhibits. Explore the captivating world of digital art, interact with the exhibits, and create your own unique experience.

Visit the Robot Restaurant

Experience a spectacular and over-the-top show featuring robots, music, and elaborate performances. Witness the dazzling spectacle of the Robot Restaurant, a unique and unforgettable entertainment experience.

Visit Tokyo DisneySea

Explore the wonders of Tokyo DisneySea, a unique theme park with a focus on maritime adventures and enchanting attractions. Experience the magic of Disney, ride thrilling rides, and enjoy the immersive atmosphere of this world-class theme park.

Take a trip to Odaiba

Explore the artificial island of Odaiba, featuring contemporary art, shopping, and stunning views of the Tokyo skyline. Visit the Miraikan (National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation), enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the shopping malls, and capture breathtaking views of the city.

References

Weather in Tokyo

In April, Tokyo's weather is mild and pleasant, with average highs ranging from 17°C to 23°C (63°F to 73°F) and average lows from 3°C to 10°C (46°F to 50°F). It's a great time to visit Tokyo, with the cherry blossoms blooming in the first half of the month, making it a popular time to visit. You can expect crowds, so it's a good idea to book accommodations and popular attractions in advance. For clothing, pack layers for cooler mornings and evenings, including a light jacket or sweater, and comfortable shoes for walking. Don't forget to bring a waterproof coat or jacket, as spring showers are common. It's also a good idea to dress modestly when visiting temples and shrines. If you're planning to visit the Tsukiji Fish Market, be prepared for early morning crowds and dress warmly, as it can be chilly near the water. Overall, April is a great time to visit Tokyo, with mild weather and plenty of festivals and events to enjoy.

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.