Tokyo Itinerary for 5 Days: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

Tokyo isn’t just Japan’s capital—it’s a city of contrasts, where tradition and innovation coexist seamlessly. Neon-lit skyscrapers hum with futuristic energy, while centuries-old temples whisper stories of the past. Whether it’s your first time traveling to Japan or you're returning for another dive into its vibrant culture, spending five days in Tokyo strikes the perfect balance between depth and discovery.

Why five days? It’s long enough to savor Tokyo’s top highlights—like the tranquil Meiji Shrine, the buzzing energy of Shibuya Crossing, and the foodie paradise of Tsukiji Outer Market—while also giving you space to wander, get lost (in a good way), and explore its hidden corners. With this Tokyo itinerary for 5 days, you’ll have a well-paced schedule that allows for both must-see experiences and personal adventure.

In this travel guide, you’ll find not only a detailed daily itinerary but also essential tips on flights, accommodation, transport, and when to visit. We’ve included insider tricks, budget guidance, and links to related experiences across Japan—so if you’re building a larger Japan itinerary, you’re in the right place.

Day-by-Day Tokyo Itinerary for 5 Days

Table of contents

• Day-by-Day Tokyo Itinerary for 5 Days
• Flights to Tokyo: What to Know
• Transport in Tokyo
• Where to Stay in Tokyo
• Top Stays in Tokyo
• Best Time to Visit Tokyo
• How Much Does 5 Days in Tokyo Cost?
• More to Explore After Tokyo
• Tokyo Itinerary for 5 Days: In Conclusion

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Day 1: Arriving & Exploring Shibuya and Harajuku

Morning:
Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. From either airport, use the Narita Express or Limousine Bus (from Haneda) to get to central Tokyo. Check in to your accommodation (see our guide to where to stay in Tokyo for the best neighborhoods based on your style).

Afternoon:
Start your Tokyo journey in Shibuya. Head straight for the Shibuya Crossing, the world's busiest pedestrian scramble. Visit Shibuya Sky, an open-air observatory with 360° city views.

Evening:
Walk to Harajuku via Cat Street, Tokyo’s coolest pedestrian alley lined with hip cafés and boutiques. Explore Takeshita Street for quirky fashion and street food. Dine at Afuri Ramen or grab vegan-friendly options at Ain Soph Ripple.

“Tokyo itinerary for 5 days” tip: Shibuya is the perfect base to adjust to Tokyo’s pace. It's vibrant, walkable, and great for first-day energy.

Day 2: Culture and Calm in Asakusa, Ueno & Akihabara

Morning:
Begin with Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa—Tokyo’s oldest temple. Stroll Nakamise Shopping Street for traditional snacks and souvenirs. Cross the river to spot the quirky Asahi Beer Hall with its iconic “flame” roof.

Midday:
Head to Ueno Park, especially beautiful in cherry blossom season. Visit Tokyo National Museum or Ueno Zoo, or simply relax by Shinobazu Pond.

Afternoon:
Jump into Tokyo’s anime and gaming culture in Akihabara. Check out Super Potato for retro games or visit a quirky maid café for a truly Japanese experience.

Evening:
Dinner at Kanda, known for izakayas and Michelin-starred hidden gems.

Day 3: Day Trip to Odaiba + Evening in Ginza

Morning:
Cross Rainbow Bridge to Odaiba, Tokyo's futuristic entertainment island. Explore TeamLab Planets for immersive digital art (a highlight of any Tokyo itinerary for 5 days). Walk along the bay, visit Aqua City, and snap a pic with the Statue of Liberty replica.

→ Related read: Things to do in Odaiba

Afternoon:
Enjoy lunch at DiverCity’s Gundam Café and see the life-sized Gundam statue. Consider a ride on the giant Daikanransha Ferris wheel.

Evening:
Take the Yurikamome Line to Ginza, Tokyo’s luxury shopping district. Even if you’re not buying Gucci, Ginza is a feast for the senses. Try sushi omakase at Sushi Kyubey or indulge in sweets at Ginza Mitsukoshi’s depachika.

Day 4: West Tokyo – Shinjuku, Ghibli Museum & Golden Gai

Morning:
Start in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden—a peaceful retreat in a business hub. Grab breakfast at Sarabeth’s Shinjuku.

Midday:
Head to Mitaka and visit the magical Ghibli Museum (tickets must be reserved in advance). Even if you’re not a Studio Ghibli fan, the museum’s artistry and design are unforgettable.

Afternoon & Evening:
Back in Shinjuku, visit the observation deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (free!). End the night in Golden Gai, a collection of tiny themed bars packed with character.

Day 5: Free Exploration & Travel Day

Use this final day for anything you missed or loved most. You could revisit a neighborhood or take a half-day trip:

• Visit Shimokitazawa for vintage shops and indie cafés
• Relax in Kagurazaka, Tokyo’s “little Kyoto”
• Day trip options: Mt. Takao or Yokohama

If you’re continuing your journey in Japan, consider checking out our 3-day Kyoto itinerary or take a route through the Japanese Alps including Takayama to Shirakawago.

Flights to Tokyo: What to Know

Tokyo has two international airports:

• Narita (NRT) – farther out, better for long-haul flights
• Haneda (HND) – closer to the city, more convenient

Use tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Momondo to find the best deals. Most travelers from the U.S., Europe, or Southeast Asia find prices range from $500–$1300 round trip depending on season.

Transport in Tokyo

• Suica or Pasmo IC cards are a must
• Consider a Tokyo Subway Ticket (24-72 hours) if using the subway heavily
• JR Yamanote Line loops the city’s main neighborhoods
• Avoid taxis—they’re expensive compared to trains

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Check out this full guide to where to stay in Tokyo for district-by-district insights. Highlights:

• Shinjuku: nightlife, food, transport hub
• Asakusa: traditional charm, budget stays
• Shibuya/Harajuku: great for young travelers, modern hotels
• Ueno: budget-friendly and near museums

Popular hostels: UNPLAN Shinjuku, Book and Bed Tokyo
Recommended hotels: Park Hotel Tokyo, The Millennials Shibuya

Best Time to Visit Tokyo

• Spring (Mar–May): Cherry blossoms, mild temps
• Fall (Sep–Nov): Autumn foliage, fewer crowds
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Crisp skies, illuminations
• Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot and humid, but full of festivals

How Much Does 5 Days in Tokyo Cost?

• Budget traveler: $60–$90/day
• Mid-range: $100–$180/day
• Luxury: $250+/day

Includes food, transport, attractions, and lodging. For more, see our Japan travel budget guide.

More to Explore After Tokyo

If you’re building a larger Japan trip, consider adding:

• Traveling to Japan: The Complete Starter Guide
• Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
• Guide to Kamikochi
• Koyasan Choishi Michi Pilgrimage Trail
• Kanazawa to Shirakawago
• Driving on Hokkaido
• Hokkaido Road Trip
• Miyajima itinerary

Tokyo Itinerary for 5 Days: In Conclusion

Five days in Tokyo is the sweet spot. It lets you taste the city’s delicious contradictions—urban noise and temple stillness, cutting-edge tech and centuries-old rituals. With the right itinerary, you can explore with confidence while still leaving room for spontaneity.

Whether you’re a foodie, a culture hunter, a first-time traveler, or someone chasing cherry blossoms, this Tokyo itinerary for 5 days gives you the blueprint for a journey you’ll never forget.