Tokyo itinerary 1 day. How to spend 1 day in Tokyo & what to do in Tokyo for 1 day?

If you only have 24 hours in Tokyo, what will you do to fully enjoy the bustling megacity of Tokyo? Check out the 1-day Tokyo itinerary (Tokyo itinerary 1 day, 1 day in Tokyo, Tokyo one day itinerary) on how to spend one day trip in Tokyo what to do in Tokyo for 1 day below!

Tokyo – the city that never sleeps in Asia is an ideal destination for those who want to explore culture, cuisine and unique things. But if you only have one day to roam around this vibrant, modern city, what are the must-see stops to fully experience the beauty of Tokyo?

If you still don’t know how to prepare a plan for 24 hours in Tokyo, follow Klook. This article will suggest suitable places to eat and have fun for your 1-day Tokyo trip.

7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Breakfast at Tsukiji Fish Market (#Tokyo itinerary 1 day)

• Address: 4-16-2, Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo

To start a new day in Tokyo, Tsukiji Market will be the ideal destination for you to recharge your energy for a long day’s journey. Tsukiji Fish Market, also known as Tsukiji Outer Market, is one of the largest wholesale seafood markets in the world and is always an attractive destination when traveling to Tokyo. The market is famous for its fresh, high-quality seafood, attracting many tourists from all over.

Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Half Day Tour

Most of the shops here open very early, making the market the perfect choice for breakfast. Sushi, sashimi, Kaisen-don seafood rice combined with fresh tuna, salmon, swordfish and sea urchin are the outstanding dishes at the market. In addition, scallops, oysters, Alaskan king crab and lobster are also indispensable in the list of things to enjoy.

eSIM Japan with high-speed and stable Internet connection

In addition, the market’s dessert area is equally attractive. Taiyaki fish cakes with red bean paste, ichigo daifuku mochi wrapped out strawberries, and soft tamago egg cakes are favorite desserts. Combining with a cup of traditional matcha will make your culinary experience here more complete.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Visit Nakamise Street & Take Photos with Kimono

• Address: 1-36-3, Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Nakamise Street is a traditional shopping street, leading straight to Senso-ji Temple – one of the most famous temples in Japan. With its ancient scenery, rich street food and many shops selling souvenirs such as swords, masks, this street always attracts both locals and tourists. This is an ideal stop for you to experience Japanese culture, shop and enjoy typical dishes.

Among the delicious dishes on Nakamise Street, melon bread and ningyo-yaki are two dishes you should definitely try once. Asakusa melon bread impresses with its large size and the strong aroma from the oven, making many visitors unable to “resist”.

Ningyo-yaki (Little Baked Doll Cakes), molded into the shapes of animals, dolls or Japanese symbols such as the red lantern at Nakamise Gate, often appear in many tourist photos. This type of cake is both a delicious dish and an interesting souvenir.

Not only cuisine, Nakamise Street is also a great place to find traditional Japanese products. Kimono with diverse materials and designs is the perfect choice for those who love Japanese fashion.

Folding fans printed with Mount Fuji are also a meaningful souvenir, preserving memories of your journey in Tokyo. You should rent a kimono to take pictures while continuing to visit the next places!

11:00 AM – 1:30 PM: Visit Sensoji Temple in Tokyo

• Address: 2-3-1, Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo

If you have come to Nakamise, there is no reason not to visit Senso-ji Temple, one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Tokyo. This temple attracts many visitors thanks to its unique architecture and ancient Edo atmosphere.

According to legend, in 628, two fishermen brothers fished a statue of Kannon (Bodhisattva Kannon, Avalokiteshvara) from the Sumida River. Although the statue was thrown into the river many times, it kept returning, causing the villagers to decide to build Senso-ji Temple nearby to worship Kannon. The temple was completed in 645, becoming the oldest temple in Tokyo.

Tokyo Hop-On Hop-off sightseeing bus by Skyhop Bus

When visiting the temple, visitors will pass through the Kaminarimon Gate (Thunder Gate), a prominent symbol of Asakusa and Tokyo. Passing through the Hozomon Gate, you will see the main hall and the five-story temple, rebuilt after the war with a modern architectural style but still in harmony with the traditional space.

The temple grounds also include the main hall Kannondo worshiping Kannon, Yogodo worshiping the eight Buddhas of the 12 zodiac signs, and Awashimado worshiping the god Awashima Myojin. Denboin Garden with a trail around the lake offers a quiet space for visitors to enjoy.

Senso-ji Temple holds many traditional festivals throughout the year, such as the Sanja Matsuri festival in May, the Asakusa Samba Carnival in August, and the Hagoita-ichi market in December. If you travel to Tokyo at these times, you will be able to participate in festival activities, experience Japanese culture, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

2:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Sightseeing & Shopping at Ueno Park (#what to do in tokyo for 1 day)

• Address: Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo
• Hours: 5 AM–11 PM

The journey to Tokyo continues with the next extremely green destination, Ueno Park, just 5 minutes by subway (Ginza line) from Asakusa Station. Ueno Park (Ueno Kōen) is a large public park located right in the center of Tokyo. Previously, this place belonged to Kaneiji Temple – one of the largest and richest temples.

Currently, this park is famous for many entertainment activities such as museums, a zoo, temples and especially cherry blossoms. Every year during cherry blossom season, this place attracts more than 2 million visitors from all over the world, especially in the area near the entrance to Ueno Zoo. If you come to Tokyo at this time, you will enjoy the joyful atmosphere of the Hanami festival, and enjoy special cuisine under the blooming cherry blossoms.

Ueno Park has up to 6 museums, an ideal place to explore Japanese art and science. Shitamachi Museum, Ueno Imperial Museum, National Museum of Western Art, National Museum of Nature and Science, Tokyo National Museum and Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum are places for those who love art and history will regret if they miss!

Not far from the Shitamachi Museum, Shinobazu Pond and historical temples such as Kan’ei-ji, Ueno Toshogu Shrine and Kiyomizu Kannon-do create a peaceful, ancient scene. In the summer, Shinobazu Pond is even more vibrant with blooming lotus flowers, bringing a harmonious beauty between peace and sacred space.

4:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Explore Tokyo Skytree Tower & Nearby Areas

• Address: 1-1-2, Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
• Hours: 10 AM–10 PM

From Ueno Park, you move to Asakusa Station to take the Tobu Skytree Line to conquer the next destination, Tokyo Skytree, the symbol of Tokyo. At 634 meters tall, the Tokyo Skytree is not only the tallest structure in Japan, but also the second tallest in the world when completed. The highlight of the Tokyo Skytree is its two observation decks, which offer panoramic views of the city from an impressive height.

TOKYO SKYTREE® Ticket

The first observation deck, the Tembo Deck, is located at an altitude of 350 meters, spread over three floors, offering an experience of viewing the city from all directions. The top floor of the deck has large windows, allowing for a 360-degree view.

The middle floor has a souvenir shop and the Musashi Sky Restaurant, which serves dishes that are a fusion of French and Japanese cuisine. The bottom floor has a cafe and several transparent glass panels on the floor, so visitors can look straight down at the scenery below.

The second observation deck is the Tembo Galleria, located at an altitude of 450 meters, and is known as the “world’s highest skywalk.” This is a spiral walkway made of glass and steel, opening up a unique view from above. The best time to see the Tokyo Skytree is at sunset and when the night falls, the whole tower is brightly lit, shimmering and magical.

7:00 PM: Immerse Yourself in the Bustling Crowds of Shibuya

• Address: 2-1, Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

Klook Pass Greater Tokyo

When the lights come on, people flocking out onto the streets, this is the time for you to clearly feel the vibrant life in the modern city of Tokyo. Shibuya Crossing, a famous place that often appears in movies and magazines, is a typical place for the crowds here. During rush hour, about 1,000 to 2,500 people cross this intersection every two minutes, enough to fill a football stadium.

When exploring Shibuya, it is impossible not to mention the Hachiko statue, a symbol of loyalty and patience. The Akita dog has been waiting for its owner at Shibuya Station for nearly 10 years after his death, becoming a familiar meeting place and a symbol of deep affection in Japanese culture.

To enjoy the hustle and bustle of Shibuya, visiting the cafes and shopping centers around the intersection will bring many interesting experiences. A special place is the Starbucks at the QFRONT building, where you can enjoy a drink while watching the bustling people below.

Street Go-Kart Experience in Shibuya by the Original Street Kart

In addition, Shibuya is also famous for its fashion, culinary and entertainment stores. Shibuya 109 – a shopping center with many new brands – is a favorite destination for many people. Center Gai Street, where a series of stores are concentrated, is a paradise for those who love to explore new trends.

8:00 PM: Dinner at Kabukicho

• Address: Kabuki-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

Kabukicho used to be an underdeveloped area in Japan, but has now completely changed, becoming a famous destination, attracting a large number of tourists thanks to the diversity of cuisine and rich entertainment activities.

A special highlight in Kabukicho is the giant Godzilla statue outside the Toho Cinemas. Every day, from 12 noon to 8 pm, Godzilla will appear with a resounding roar for a few seconds, bringing an interesting experience to viewers. So after walking around Shibuya, quickly take the JR Yamanote Line to Shinjuku to see this giant dinosaur.

Kabukicho is also a culinary paradise with countless lively bars and restaurants. Enjoying dinner here in a bustling and fun atmosphere will leave many unforgettable memories. A unique experience is sitting on top of high-rise buildings, watching the whole city of Tokyo sparkling under the lights.

To end your visit to Kabukicho, don’t miss visiting Don Quijote – one of the largest and most vibrant stores of this chain in Japan. It displays a variety of unique products, from souvenirs to Japanese daily necessities. In particular, reasonable prices and attractive discount coupons make shopping at Don Quijote an irresistible choice.

JR Pass for Whole Japan

9:00 PM: Enjoy the Nightlife in Shinjuku

Have you finished eating and shopping but still don’t want to end your day in Tokyo? Don’t worry, the bustling Shinjuku area is famous for its nightlife that will keep you partying until morning. Two popular tourist destinations with “cool” bars in Shinjuku are Golden Gai and Omoide Yokocho.

Golden Gai is an ideal place for those who want to learn about classic Japanese culture. With its lovely small alleys, this area is home to many small bars and restaurants, each with its own style. Visitors can easily move from one bar to another, enjoy a variety of drinks and immerse themselves in the bustling atmosphere.

If you are looking for a brighter but still impressive space, Omoide Yokocho will not disappoint you. This place is famous for its traditional street food, attracting yakitori, yakiniku and ramen lovers. The small eateries create a friendly atmosphere, easily sparking interesting conversations with people around.

Reference Cost of Traveling to Tokyo for 1 Day

 

Are you wondering how much it will cost to travel in Tokyo for 1 day? Below is an estimated cost for a day of traveling to Tokyo, based on a sample itinerary.

Category	Cost (USD)
Breakfast at Tsukiji	14.00
Melon bread and ningyo-yaki	5.62
Dinner in Kabukicho	17.50
Tokyo Skytree Tickets on Klook	14.69
Souvenirs	21.00
Traveling	20.35 - 40.70
4G SIM Card	10.50
Others	35.01
Total	131.72 - 151.74

(*) Note that actual costs may vary depending on the travel season as well as the exchange rate at each time, needs, and personal budget of each person.

The vibrant and modern city of Tokyo is a dream destination for many people. Even if it is only a short day, Tokyo is still enough to leave you with unforgettable impressions. The bustling market filled with delicious food, the serene temples, and the city view from above will make you remember forever.

The post first appeared on Klook Vietnam and was translated and edited by Living Nomads. If you find any images or text that belong to you, please contact us, so we can credit you or give us permission to use them. Thank you very much!

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 looking for more Tokyo travel guide and top things to do in Tokyo: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Tokyo itinerary 3 days — What to do in Tokyo in 3 days?