Tokyo is a dizzying megacity where centuries-old temples stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers and electric neon. Founded as the modest fishing village of Edo, it became the world's largest metropolitan area within a few centuries without ever losing its soul: the Senso-ji shrine in Asakusa, with its five-story pagoda, still carries you back to prewar Japan, just a few subway stops from the neon of Akihabara.
Tokyo's food scene is unmatched in its richness, from steaming ramen in a neighborhood hole-in-the-wall to the world's finest sushi. Try crispy tonkatsu, charcoal-grilled yakitori under the railway tracks of Yurakucho, vinegared-rice onigiri, and above all a real sushi breakfast near the Tsukiji market, where the tuna auction tradition lives on despite the wholesale market's move to Toyosu.
Tokyo pulses with a contrasting energy of discipline and excess. The Shibuya pedestrian crossing, where hundreds of people cross paths at every green light, embodies the megacity's frantic pace, while the neon of Kabukicho in Shinjuku and the shops of Harajuku reveal unbridled creativity. At night, izakayas tucked under the rail tracks and the tiny bars of Golden Gai create an intimate atmosphere at the heart of the urban whirlwind.
Practical tip: Get a Suica or Pasmo card as soon as you arrive to move freely through the vast subway and train network. Avoid the JR Yamanote and Chuo lines during rush hour (8-9:30am), which get literally packed.
Estimated budget: Budget around €90-120 per day per person for activities, meals and transport (accommodation not included): €8-15 for a ramen or sushi set, about €1.50-2 per subway ride with a Suica card, and €15-25 for observation decks (Skytree, Tokyo Tower). Tokyo is more affordable than people expect for street food and casual dining.
Best time to visit: The best time is March to May (cherry blossoms) or October to November (autumn foliage), with mild temperatures. Avoid the rainy season (June) and the very humid summer if possible.
Prices and hours are indicative — please verify before your visit.
Day by day
Day 1
Senso-ji (Asakusa)
Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, founded in 645, preceded by the Nakamise shopping street lined with traditional stalls. Its Kaminarimon gate and giant red lantern make it one of Japan's most photographed sites. The 250-meter Nakamise street is lined with traditional sweets and handmade souvenirs to snack on along the way to the temple.
Tokyo Skytree
Japan's tallest tower rises to 634 meters, with two dizzying observation decks high above the megacity. The glass floor on the upper level gives a striking sense of open air for the more daring visitors. At its base, the Tokyo Solamachi complex combines shops, restaurants and even an aquarium to extend the visit.
Ueno Park
Tokyo's great cultural park, home to several major museums, a zoo and a lotus-covered pond dotted with swan-shaped paddle boats. In spring, its 1,000 cherry trees make it one of the city's best hanami spots. Ueno Zoo, Japan's oldest, is home to giant pandas among other animals, a big draw for Japanese families on weekends.
Akihabara
The world's shrine to electronics, video games and manga/anime culture, packed with multi-story stores and quirky themed cafés. This is where the heart of Japan's geek and otaku culture truly beats. The multi-story arcades and the neighborhood's signature maid cafés round out a full immersion in Japanese pop culture.
Imperial Palace
The current residence of Japan's imperial family, surrounded by moats, massive stone walls and meticulously maintained gardens. The interior stays closed to the public, but the East Gardens are open for free visits most of the year. The Nijubashi double bridge at the main entrance remains the most sought-after photo spot, with the moat and pine trees in the background.
Day 2
Shinjuku (Kabukicho)
Japan's biggest nightlife district, a neon explosion of izakayas, karaoke bars and towering skyscrapers. The contrast between daytime business towers and the electric nighttime atmosphere is striking. The nearby Omoide Yokocho alley, tiny and lantern-lit, is packed with small yakitori restaurants for an authentic dinner.
Meiji Jingu
A Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji, set within an artificial forest of 100,000 trees donated from across Japan. The striking contrast with buzzing nearby Harajuku makes it a pocket of absolute calm. With a bit of luck, you might spot a traditional Shinto wedding procession crossing the shrine's paths.
Harajuku
The neighborhood of alternative fashion and street food, embodied by the famous pedestrian Takeshita Street and its colorful crepes. It's the testing ground for Tokyo youth's most extravagant trends. Just steps away, the upscale Omotesando avenue offers a striking contrast with its luxury boutiques and polished architecture.
Shibuya Crossing
The busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, where up to 3,000 people cross at once every time the light changes. Seen from above at a nearby café, the ceaseless flow perfectly captures Tokyo's energy. The statue of Hachiko the dog, a symbol of loyalty, stands right next to it and is Tokyo's most popular meeting spot.
Day 3
Roppongi Hills
An upscale business and nightlife district dominated by Mori Tower and its panoramic observation deck 250 meters up. Contemporary art galleries, Michelin-starred restaurants and trendy clubs coexist here well into the night. The giant spider sculpture 'Maman' by Louise Bourgeois, at the tower's entrance, has become one of the neighborhood's symbols.
Tokyo Tower
Inspired by the Eiffel Tower but taller, this 333-meter red-and-white tower has been a historic symbol of Tokyo since 1958. Its observation decks offer sweeping views of the city and, on clear days, all the way to Mount Fuji. Its lighting changes with the seasons and special events, offering a different spectacle on every nighttime visit.
Tsukiji Market
The historic outer fish market, a shrine to street food and seafood, still bustling despite the wholesale market's move to Toyosu. Ultra-fresh sushi and seafood breakfasts draw locals and visitors alike from dawn. Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and get the best picks, before the most popular stalls sell out.
Odaiba
A futuristic artificial island in Tokyo Bay, mixing urban beaches, ultra-modern malls and stunning views of the illuminated Rainbow Bridge. A replica of the Statue of Liberty adds an unexpected touch. The artificial beach, while not meant for swimming, offers one of Tokyo's best spots to watch the sunset over the bay.
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