Tokyo First-Timer's Classics

Use Shinjuku as your base and spend three days exploring Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, Ueno, Harajuku and Shibuya

This itinerary is split between eastern and western Tokyo. On arrival, take in the free night views from Shinjuku and wander through its yokocho alleys. Day two focuses on old Tokyo: Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, Ueno and Akihabara. On the last day, visit Meiji Shrine and Harajuku in the morning, then head to Shibuya Crossing and its observation deck in the afternoon before leaving from Haneda. The pace is brisk but avoids backtracking, making it well suited to first-time visitors with a short trip. Tsukiji and Odaiba are best saved for your next visit.

Cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and autumn foliage season (late November) are very busy, so book accommodation well in advance.

Day by day

Day 1 · Arrive and enjoy the Shinjuku night views

Central Tokyo（Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory、Omoide Yokocho、Kabukicho, Shinjuku）

Take the Narita Express from Narita International Airport to Shinjuku, about 80 minutes. After checking in, walk to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and Nishiguchi Yokocho.

The observation deck at the Metropolitan Government Building is free. Check the official website for opening hours and closing days.

Stay: Shinjuku

Day 2 · Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, Ueno and Akihabara

Central Tokyo（Senso-ji Temple、Tokyo Skytree、Ueno Park、Akihabara）

Take the subway to Asakusa, about 30 minutes. Walk or take one stop to Tokyo Skytree, then ride the subway to Ueno and the JR line to Akihabara.

Senso-ji Temple is least crowded before 8 a.m. You can reserve timed tickets for Tokyo Skytree online.

Stay: Shinjuku

Day 3 · Meiji Shrine, Harajuku and Shibuya

Central Tokyo（Meiji Jingu、Takeshita Street, Harajuku、Shibuya Crossing & Shibuya Sky）

Take the JR line to Harajuku, 5 minutes. Walk through the shrine grounds and Takeshita Street, then continue to Shibuya. In the evening, take the Keikyu line or a bus to Haneda, about 40 minutes.

For a sunset slot at SHIBUYA SKY, book tickets online several days in advance.

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