Tokyo has become one of the busiest cities in the world and you will never lack anything to do in this vibrant urban tropical forest. That said, sometimes there may be a lot of things to do that you need to decide where to go or what to see. Here is a suggested itinerary for you to find some of the hottest places in the city if you only have a few days to enjoy this vibrant city. Now, let’s discover the great city through Tokyo itinerary 3 days and What to do in Tokyo in 3 days details below.
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Tokyo itinerary 3 days: What to do in Tokyo in 3 days for Day 1
On the first day in Tokyo, you should come to the west of the city starting from Harajuku, where you can visit the Meiji-Jingu Shrine.
The shrine was built in 1920. It is dedicated to former Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. This shrine is a remarkable place because it is located in the mi70-hectare forest. There are more than 12,000 trees which can create a surprise scene in the crowded metropolis and many houses like Tokyo.
From the shrine, transfer to Shibuya where you will no doubt want to stop at the famous Shibuya Avenue. This large avenue is one of the most iconic attractions in Tokyo and is considered to be the busiest avenue in the world. So be sure to take a few photos when you are there.
After visiting Shibuya, let’s go to Ueno where you will find the Tokyo National Museum as well as the Ueno-Koen Park. If you accidentally visit in the cherry blossom season in late March or early April, you will enjoy a variety of wonderful flowers. Located next to the park is the Ueno Zoo which has more than 2,000 animals like the panda, lion, tiger, and more. Maybe you will not be able to visit museums, parks, and zoos on the same day, so pick the ones you really want to see depending on your preference.
Tokyo 3 day itinerary: What to do in Tokyo in 3 days for Day 2
Taking the subway to Asakusa and head towards Senso-ji Temple, a Buddhist temple with booths and vending carts selling souvenirs in front. There are also several shops around the temple where you can buy local art and crafts like calligraphy sets.
From Asakusa, cross the river and stop at Asahi Beer Hall where you can enjoy some famous beers with the views of the city. The beer garden is located on the top floor and is especially recommended as one of the best places in Tokyo to enjoy this drink.
Returning to town to Tokyo Station, you can have lunch there. Then you can spend the afternoon enjoying the Hibiya-Koen Park to relax and unwind in the middle of the vibrant city. The park has a special scene if you go there during the cherry blossom season.
Finally finishing the day with a trip to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku, where you can see the city from observation deck 45th. The observatory is 220 meters above the city. It is a great way to sit on the clock for looking at Tokyo from a height. You should set your timelines so that when you come here in the sunset, you will have the best view.
Shinjuku is also a good place to end your second day in Tokyo. You will find many bars, restaurants and cafes in the area as well as some nice shops, so after your trip to Tokyo Government Building, take some time to walk around Shinjuku and chat in this atmosphere.
Tokyo 3 day itinerary: What to do in Tokyo in 3 days for Day 3
Starting the morning with a trip to Tsukiji and enjoying the scenery and smell of Tsukiji Fish Market. This is one of the most famous markets in the world and the destination for fresh fish to make the best sushi in the city. The fish market sells more than 2,000 tons of fish a day, so this is a point that you definitely should not miss.There are many sushi shops around the market so this is also the best place to have lunch after your visit.
Read more: Visiting Tsukiji fish market — The largest fish market in the world of Tokyo
After having a delicious sushi lunch, go to Hamarikyu Garden where you will be able to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The area around Tsukiji is quite busy, so maybe you would crave something a little quieter. Be sure not to miss the teahouses in the gardens, where you can try some traditional Japanese tea and enjoy the serenity. After your trip to the garden, you can relax in the early afternoon and prepare for a night in the city.
In the evening, head to Roppongi and Roppongi Hill. The name means ‘six trees’ and this is the city’s entertainment. This is a great place to eat some traditional Japanese food. Then you can spend the rest of the evening enjoying one or two drinks at a local bar or club.
Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Tokyo you can refer to
- Private Narita International Airport Transfers (NRT) for Tokyo 23 Wards, Hakone, or Karuizawa
- Private Haneda International Airport Transfers (HND) for Tokyo 23 Wards, Hakone, or Karuizawa
- Airport Limousine Bus Transfers from/to Narita and Haneda International Airport (Free Wifi Onboard)
- Tokyo Amazing Sightseeing Bus Day Tour
- Tokyo Highlights Private Day Tour
- Nikko Day Tour from Tokyo
- Mt Fuji & Hakone Day Tour: Lake Ashi & Ropeway Day Trip from Tokyo
- Nikko Cultural Day Tour from Tokyo
- Tokyo Subway Ticket (24, 48, or 72 Hours)
- Tokyo Skyliner and Tokyo Subway Ticket
- Shuttle Bus Transfers (One Way/Round Trip) from Shinjuku/Ikebukuro to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea
- Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket
- Klook Pass Greater Tokyo
- SHIBUYA SKY Ticket
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter Ticket
- Skyliner Narita Airport Express Ticket
- TeamLab Planets Ticket
- TOKYO SKYTREE® Ticket
- Limousine Bus Narita or Haneda Airport to Tokyo
- Skyliner Narita Airport Express With Tokyo Subway Ticket
- JR Tokyo Wide Pass
- Sky Hop-on and Hop-off Bus Pass
- 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
- 4G WiFi (BKK and DMK Airport Pick Up) for Japan (Unlimited Data)
- JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)
Are you finding more top things to do in Tokyo: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Tokyo travel blog — The fullest Tokyo city guide for a budget trip for the first time visiting Tokyo, Japan.