Perfect 4 Days Tokyo Itinerary (2024 Guide)

If you are wondering what can you do in Tokyo for 4 days, make sure to continue reading this comprehensive 4 days Tokyo itinerary because this travel article is what it is all about!

Thanks to the title “The World’s Greatest City”, this fascinating metropolitan city is one of Asia’s famous travel destinations to go to with millions of tourists visiting every single year. 

But you might have heard that planning a trip to Tokyo is no easy task. 

Navigating through the city of 13 million residents with the seemingly complicated metro maps surrounded by tall skyscrapers and countless narrow streets might indeed make you feel overwhelmed—but it does not have to be that way.

This detailed Tokyo 4 days itinerary is here to shoo away that thought and to guide you through—covering unmissable main highlights to visit, how to navigate around, and not to forget the delectable local cuisine that you need to try when you are in this bustling concrete jungle!

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Summary Of 4 Days Tokyo Itinerary

Day 1 

• Explore Tsukiji Outer Market for sightseeing and breakfast
• Explore Asakusa (Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street) 
• Museum-hopping and strolling around Ueno Park 
• Explore Akihabara (Radio Kaikan, Mandarake, and maid cafes)

Day 2 

• Admire the scenic panoramic view at Tokyo Skytree
• Visit Edo-Tokyo Museum
• Visit The Imperial Palace
• Have an afternoon tea break at Pokemon Cafe
• Explore Ginza (Ginza Wako and Kabukiza Theatre)
• Experience bustling city nightlife at Roppongi

Day 3

• Wander around Shibuya (Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue)
• Explore Harajuku (Takeshi Dori and Omotesando)
• Have a stroll at Yoyogi Park
• Visit Meiji-Jingu Shrine
• Have a blast at Robot Restaurant Tokyo

Day 4 

• Experience heightened visual at TeamLab Borderless Tokyo
• Explore Shinjuku 
• Visit The Metropolitan Government Office
• Enjoy the picturesque view of Shinjuku Gyoen Park
• Bar-hopping at Golden Gai
• Have a feast at Omoide Yokocho

Tokyo Essentials: Tokyo 4 Days Itinerary

4 Days Tokyo Itinerary: Day 1

• Explore Tsukiji Outer Market for sightseeing and breakfast
• Explore Asakusa (Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street) 
• Museum-hopping and strolling around Ueno Park 
• Explore Akihabara (Radio Kaikan, Mandarake, and maid cafes)

Explore Tsukiji Outer Fish Market For Sightseeing And Breakfast

Kick start your Day 1 of 4 Days Tokyo Itinerary by filling up both your sights and tummy at Outer Tsukiji Fish Market. 

Though this famous fish market is not as packed after the famed tuna auction market has shifted to the brand new Toyosu Market, there are still plenty of things to do and see around here. 

You can still find some wholesale stalls supplying fresh seafood to the nearby eateries that specialise in local cuisine. Look at those lively oysters and sea urchins!

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There are also vendors selling kitchen appliances and processed seafood along the narrow lanes. 

While you are here, make sure to get your hearty sushi breakfast because where else can you find seafood that is as fresh as if they are just fished out of the sea!

Outer Tsukiji Fish Market Entrance Fee: Free

Visiting Hours: Varies depending on stores

How To Get To Tsukiji Outer Market

1. Train

• Closest Station: Tsukiji Station (Hibiya Subway Line from Ginza Station), Tsukiji Shijo Station (Oedo Subway Line from Shinjuku Station)

Explore Asakusa (Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street) 

Next, it is time to explore the historically rich site of Tokyo city—Asakusa.

If you would like to get a glimpse into the Japanese’s capital nostalgic past, Asakusa is a great place to be at. 

Sensoji Temple 

The main highlight that you need to visit in Asakusa is Sensoji Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan. 

At the temple entrance, you will be graced with the symbolic Kaminarimon (outer gate of Sensoji Temple). 

There is a main hall, a five-storey pagoda, and a shrine on the temple grounds where you can wander around to admire their colourful architecture. 

Sensoji Temple is exceptionally packed in May and August for some big scaled celebrations annually, such as Sanja Matsuri and Asakusa Samba Carnival. 

Sensoji Temple Entrance Fee: Free

Visiting Hours: 6 am-5 pm (6.30 am from October to March)

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Nakamise Shopping Street

After exploring the temple grounds and admiring the ancient architecture, make your way to Nakamise Shopping Street.

This tourist-flocked 200-metre long shopping street is reachable from Hozomon, the second gate of Sensoji Temple.

Nakamise Shopping Street is a great place to hunt for some cheap souvenirs for people back home, including yukata. 

You also get to munch on local snacks native to Asakusa too over here. 

Some of the snacks that you need to get your hands on are taiyaki (a snack filled with red bean paste) and tempura.

Note: Make your way to Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Centre’ observation deck to have a thorough bird’s-eye view onto Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street.

Nakamise Shopping Street Entrance Fee: Free

Operating Hours: Varies depending on stores

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How To Get To Asakusa

1. Train

• From Tokyo Station: To Kanda Station (JR Yamato Line) and transfer to Asakusa (Ginza Subway Line)
  
  Duration: 12 minutes

• From Shinjuku Station: To Kanda Station (JR Chuo Line) and transfer to Asakusa (Ginza Subway Line)
  
  Duration: 20 minutes 

Museum-Hopping and Strolling Around Ueno Park 

Your 4 days Tokyo itinerary will not be complete without a trip to Ueno Park. 

Located next to Ueno Station, this giant central park is a great spot for hanami (cherry blossom watching) where about a thousand cherry trees are planted along the walkway.

During hanami, the visitors lay their picnic mats on the grounds and chat happily away with friends, family members, or colleagues while enjoying the beautiful sakura view.  

Even if you are in Tokyo in seasons other than spring, you can still make your way to Ueno Park for some relaxing walks around Shinobazu Pond and perhaps mingling with the locals to know more about Ueno Park’s interesting history. 

Ueno Park Entrance Fee: Free

Visiting Hours: Always open

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Ueno Park also houses several impressive national museums, such as:

• Tokyo National Museum
• National Science Museum
• National Museum for Western Art

If you are a big fan of different national museums, you can spend a few hours hopping from one museum to another in Ueno Park. 

Note: Tokyo National Museum is the oldest and biggest museum in the country!

Tokyo National Museum Entrance Fee: US$10 (1000 yen)

Visiting Hours: 9.30 am-5 pm

National Science Museum Entrance Fee: US$6 (630 yen)

Visiting Hours: 9 am-5 pm

National Museum for Western Art Entrance Fee: US$5

Visiting Hours: 9.30 am-5.30 pm

How To Get To Ueno Park

1. Train

• Closest station: JR Ueno Station (JR Yamanote, Takasaki, and Keihin Tohoku Lines)

Explore Akihabara (Radio Kaikan, Mandarake, And Maid Cafes)

The last district to explore before ending your Day 1 of 4 Days Tokyo itinerary is Akihabara. 

Being the nation’s electronic hub, you can expect to be surrounded by endless rows of electronic shops selling the latest gadgets with big, colourful signages to attract visitors and potential customers. 

Note: Most electronic stores offer electronic goods that are to be used in Japan due to voltage differences. 

If you are looking for electronics catered for overseas usage, make sure to get over to Akky in Akihabara.

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Apart from that, Akihabara is also known as an otaku (hardcore fan) centre among manga and anime lovers. 

Some of these otaku dedicated buildings that you need to visit in Akihabara are Radio Kaikan and Mandarake.

Maid cafes are also one of the great places in Akihabara to immerse yourself in this unique otaku culture.  

Radio Kaikan

Radio Kaikan is the iconic landmark in Akihabara—a ten-storey high commercial building with over 30 stores selling a mixture of anime or manga related goods and electronics. 

If you are looking to add some anime figurines into your collection, your best bet will be at Radio Kaikan.

Even if you are not a fan of anime, you can still visit some of the otaku shops to expose yourself to another bizarre culture that might be entirely different from yours!

Widen your horizon—that’s the perk of travelling, isn’t it?  

Radio Kaikan Entrance Fee: Free

Operating Hours: 10 am-8 pm

Mandarake

If you are looking for an otaku building purely dedicated to anime goods, Mandarake is the place that you need to be at. 

Apart from having a large collection of manga, rare figurines, and posters, you will also get to see a wide range of DVDs and game software over here. 

Though most of the items sold here are pre-loved and sold at an affordable price, some rare and vintage collectables can be sold for as much as US$900 or more (hundred thousands of yen).

Mandarake Entrance Fee: Free

Operating Hours: 12 pm-8 pm

Maid Cafes

If you are still up for a one-of-a-kind, unique Japanese experience, make sure to include a trip to any of the maid cafes while you are in Akihabara. 

Maid cafes are restaurants served by waitresses dressed as the characters in anime. 

Here is the recommended maid cafe in Akihabara to get to.

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How To Get To Akihabara

1. Train

• From Tokyo Station: Direct to Akihabara Station (JR Yamanote or Keihin-Tohoku Line)
  
  Duration: 3 minutes

• From Shinjuku Station: Direct to Akihabara Station (JR Sobu Line) 
  
  Duration: 20 minutes 

So you have covered quite a bit of Tokyo on Day 1 of Tokyo 4 days itinerary but there are much more equally exciting main highlights to visit for the upcoming 3 more days!

Therefore, head back to your hotel and rest well to continue exploring this magnificent metropolitan. 

4 Days Tokyo Itinerary: Day 2

• Admire the scenic panoramic view at Tokyo Skytree
• Visit Edo-Tokyo Museum
• Visit The Imperial Palace
• Have an afternoon tea break at Pokemon Cafe
• Explore Ginza (Ginza Wako and Kabukiza Theatre)
• Enjoy bustling city nightlife at Roppongi

Admire The Scenic Panoramic View At Tokyo Skytree

Start your Day 2 of 4 days Tokyo itinerary by admiring the scenic panoramic view at Tokyo Skytree.

This symbolic tower is the Japan’s tallest building with a height of 634 metres—so you can expect the view from the top to be pretty extraordinary and breathtaking!

If you are lucky, you also get to see Mount Fuji in the distance when the sky is clear.

There are two observation decks to get into; Tembo Deck (350 metre-tall) and Tembo Galleria (450 metre-tall).

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Tembo Deck comes with a sky restaurant, souvenir shop, and cafe for the visitors. 

To those who are not scared of heights, you can look down to the tower base through some glass panels of the cafe.

Tembo Galleria is linked to a spiral ramp where visitors can walk up to the highest observation deck while looking out to the city through the glass windows. Definitely not for the faint-hearted!

Tokyo Skytree can be overcrowded at times, especially during holiday seasons.

Therefore, get your ticket book online so that you can save the queuing time to spend more time admiring the Tokyo city view instead.

Tokyo Skytree Observation Deck Entrance Fee: Buy Online

Visiting Hours: 10 am-8 pm

How To Get To Tokyo Skytree

1. Train

• Closest stations: Tokyo Skytree Station (Tobu Skytree Line), Oshiage Station (Hanzomon Line)

Visit Edo-Tokyo Museum

Next, head over to Edo-Tokyo Museum—one of the unmissable museums that you need to step into in your 4 days Tokyo itinerary.

This warehouse architecture-inspired museum showcases the history of Tokyo of 400 hundred years that spans from the Edo Period till recent decades.

Visitors will get to learn about Tokyo’s cultural heritage, the way of life of people in the past, the city transformation, and precious artefacts throughout the museum.

Besides, you can also find both small and real-sized figurines and intricate building replicas that depict the history and culture of Tokyo city vividly. 

Note: If you would like to explore this interesting museum under an English-speaking guide for free, make sure to be there from 1.10 pm to 2.45 pm.  

Edo-Tokyo Museum Entrance Fee: US$6 (600 yen)

Visiting Hours: 9.30 am- 5.30 pm

How To Get to Edo-Tokyo Museum

1. Train

• Closest station: Ryogoku Station (5-minute walk)

Visit The Imperial Palace

Of course, Tokyo Imperial Palace is a must-visit highlight that is curated into this Tokyo 4 days itinerary. 

Surrounded by moats and high stone walls, the elegant-looking palace was rebuilt after it was destroyed during World War II. 

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Though you cannot enter The Imperial Palace freely, you can sign up for free guided tours that last for about 75 minutes where you get to explore part of the palace grounds. 

Note: English guided tours are available at 10 am and 1.30 pm every day except on Sundays and Mondays. Advance tour reservation is recommended.

To have a glimpse at royal family members, make sure to head over to The Imperial Palace on January 2 (New Year celebration) and February 23 (Emperor’s birthday) where they make public appearances from the palace’s balcony.

How To Get To The Imperial Palace

1. Train

• Closest station: Tokyo Station (10-minute walk)

Have An Afternoon Tea Break At Pokemon Cafe

After an hour-stint at The Imperial Palace, it is time to make your way to Pokemon Cafe for a short tea break!

This kawaii (cute in Japanese) cafe is one of the highly sought-after cafes in Tokyo and you will need to make prior reservations online to secure a seat.

The cafe interior might be too minimalistic for some—wooden tables and chairs and a few popular Pokemon characters on the long table to glance at. 

Nevertheless, the main attraction of this cafe lies in the Pokemon-inspired food and beverages served by the cafe—the eye-feasting appeal that makes you go “aww” and doubting yourself whether you should even consume them because the dishes are too cute and pretty to begin with! 

Note: You can top up extra money to bring home the Pokemon-themed serving plates or cups as kawaii souvenirs.

Alternatively, you can get yourself some Pokemon plush toys from Pokemon Centre DX Tokyo located next door. 

Any Mew’s lover here? 

Pokemon Cafe Seat Reservation: Online only

Operating Hours: 10.30 am-10 pm

How To Get To Pokemon Cafe

1. Train

• Closest stations: Tokyo Station (5-minute walk), Nihombashi Station (5-minute walk)

Explore Ginza (Ginza Wako And Kabukiza Theatre)

After you are done with Pokemon Cafe head over to Ginza—another popular district in Tokyo that every first-time visitor needs to visit. 

Ginza is Tokyo’s premium shopping district where you can find all the international luxury fashion and cosmetic brands within the several malls along the main street Chuo Dori. 

Even if you are not a big fan of luxury brands, getting a walk around this district in your Tokyo 4 days itinerary will show you another distinct side of Tokyo. Like a place to splurge for a US$10 coffee.

Note: And for those who are looking for a premium price tag shopping spree, make your way to Tokyu Plaza Ginza for some tax-free shopping!

Ginza Wako

Ginza Wako is the iconic building that represents Ginza—another premium department store selling jewellery. 

One of the oldest buildings in Ginza, Ginza Wako is easily distinguishable with the presence of a symbolic clock tower at the top of this Neo-Renaissance style building. 

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Kabukiza Theatre

Kabukiza Theatre is a popular theatre in Ginza where you get to watch Japanese kabuki shows. 

Kabuki is the traditional Japanese classical theatre and the play is performed by a group of actors on the stage on historical events, love stories, heart-wrenching tragedy, and so on. 

There are two types of kabuki tickets available; a single act (about 30 minutes) and the entire segment show (up to 3 hours).   

Note: You can only get the single act ticket from the ticketing booth on the day itself. For a regular show, you will need to book it in advance. 

Since the play is performed entirely in Japanese, it is best to rent an English audio guide so that you can understand the interesting plot and follow through with the act easily.    

Kabukiza Theatre Ticketing Fee: US$19 (2000 yen) for a single act show, US$37-$200 (4000 yen to 22000 yen) for an entire play

Operating Hours: 10 am-6 pm

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How To Get To Ginza

1. Train

• Closest stations: Ginza Station (Hibiya, Marunouchi, and Ginza Subway Lines), Yurakucho Station (JR Yamanote Line and Yurakucho Subway Line)

Experience Bustling City Nightlife At Roppongi

Of course you couldn’t exclude Roppongi out of your Day 2 of Tokyo 4 days itinerary. 

This bustling district comes lively at night—one of the popular entertainment districts that nightlifers need to go for a drink or two. 

There are so many bars in Roppongi that you can choose from, depending to your preference and budget.

This is also where the expats hang out at night so if you are looking for some travel mates for the remaining days in Tokyo, Roppongi is where you need to be!

How To Get To Roppongi

1. Train

• Closest stations: Roppongi Station (Hibiya and Oedo Subway Lines), Roppongi-Icchome Station (Nanboku Subway Line)

So that’s the end of Day 2 of the 4 days Tokyo itinerary. Head over back to the hotel for a good night’s rest before continuing exploring Tokyo on Day 3. 

Tokyo 4 days itinerary: Day 3

• Wander around Shibuya (Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue)
• Explore Harajuku (Takeshi Dori and Omotesando)
• Have a stroll at Yoyogi Park
• Visit Meiji-Jingu Shrine
• Have a blast at Robot Restaurant Tokyo

Wander Around Shibuya (Shibuya Crossing And Hachiko Statue)

Start your Day 3 of Tokyo 4 days itinerary at Shibuya! 

Shibuya is one of the main and busiest entertainment hubs in Tokyo, filled with shopping malls, dining establishments, and nightclubs.

The district emits a different futuristic vibe in the evening when all the neon signages are lighted up—making it a popular photo shooting site among visitors.

Shibuya Crossing

Make sure to make your way to Shibuya Crossing—the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing with an estimated 1000 people crossing at the same time. How cool is that?

If you prefer to have a bird’s eye view of the crossing, you can visit cafes or restaurants that offer window seating to patrons so that you can people watching comfortably all day long. 

Note: Does the crossing look familiar to you? That is because part of the world-famed The Fast And Furious: Tokyo Drift movie was filmed over here!

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Hachiko Statue

You can also opt for an IG famous shot at the Hachiko Statue in Shibuya, located in front of Shibuya Station.

This statue is erected in memory of Hachiko—the loyal dog that showed up every day for 10 years even after his master had passed away. 

How To Get To Shibuya

1. Train

• Closest station: Shibuya Station

There are so many lines connected to Shibuya Station including JR Yamanote Line, JR Saikyo Line, Ginza Subway Line, Fukutoshin Subway Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line, and Keio Inokashira Line.

Explore Harajuku

If you are looking to expose yourself to teenage fashion in Japan, Harajuku is the best place to be at. 

Harajuku is also the centre of extreme teenage cosplay—another bizarre culture that is embedded among Japanese youngsters.

Nevertheless, there are places in Harajuku where the retail shops and boutiques cater to young working adults. 

Takeshita Dori 

To experience the teenage fashion and latest trends in Harajuku, make sure to get to Takeshita Dori.

Apart from having trendy boutiques, you can also find numerous Instagrammable cafes and fast-food restaurants targeting teenagers along this chaotic street.

Hence, you may want to prepare yourself for the large crowd along this narrow 400-metre long street especially on the weekends. 

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Omotesando

Also known as Tokyo’s Champs Elysees, Omotesando is filled with designer goods stores that target working-class urbanites.  

There are also many cafes to hop in for a short break after your shopping spree. 

How To Get To Harajuku

1. Train

• Closest stations: Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line), Omotesando Station (Chiyoda, Ginza, and Hanzomon Subway Lines)

Have A Stroll At Yoyogi Park

If you are looking for a short break from the bustling city life on Day 3 of the 4 days Tokyo itinerary, you can opt for a stroll around Yoyogi Park.

Among the largest parks in Tokyo, Yoyogi Park features several ponds, cherry trees, and a ginkgo tree forest. 

Note: Yoyogi Park is another beautiful alternative site for hanami during spring.  

This city park offers a tranquil scenic nature view and it is a popular spot among locals for picnic activity. 

Yoyogi Park Entrance Fee: Free

Visiting Hours: Always open

How To Get To Yoyogi Park

1. Train

• Closest station: Harajuku Station (5-minute walk)

Admire Meiji-Jingu Shrine

Located just adjacent to Yoyogi Park, this ancient Shinto shrine is one of the popular shrines in the country.

The walk from the main entrance to the shrine buildings takes about 10 minutes, from which you will be greeted by the large torii gate that signifies entry into the shrine grounds.

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Meiji-Jingu Shrine is also exceptionally packed on the first day of New Year, where locals will visit shrines and temples for prayer, praying for a blessing year ahead. 

You can also visit the newly opened Meiji-Jingu Museum showcasing personal exhibits from Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. 

Meiji-Jingu Shrine Entrance Fee: Free

Visiting Hours: Sunrise to sunset

Meiji-Jingu Museum Entrance Fee: US$10 (1000 yen)

Visiting Hours: 10 am-4.30 pm (Closed on Thursday)

How To Get To Meiji-Jingu Shrine

1. Train

• Closest station: Harajuku Station (2-minute walk)

Have A Blast At Robot Restaurant Tokyo

End your Day 3 of the 4 days in Tokyo itinerary with a bang at the Robot Restaurant Tokyo!

I think among all the touristy tours that you can sign up for in Tokyo, Robot Restaurant Tokyo is the one place that you should really go for because it is worth the price for the prepared-to-be-blown-away experience.

You will be bombarded with extravagant, wacky robot dance performances accompanied by loud music and mesmerising neon lights, offering you a temporary sweet escape from reality. 

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Note: It is best to have some food before heading to Robot Restaurant because the food portion served is small.

Though you can get the entrance ticket from the venue, buying the ticket online will save quite a big amount of money—which means more money to splurge on street foods!

Robot Restaurant Tokyo Entrance Ticket: Buy online

How To Get To Robot Restaurant Tokyo

1. Train

• Closest station: Shinjuku Station (10-minute walk)

After having a fun-filled night at Robot Restaurant, it is time to get rested in your hotel room.

Or if you are still feeling hungry, you can get some snacks to bite from the local convenience store—I can assure you that it will not disappoint!

Tokyo 4 days itinerary : Day 4

• Experience heightened visual at TeamLab Borderless Tokyo
• Explore Shinjuku 
• Visit The Metropolitan Government Office
• Bar-hopping at Golden Gai
• Have a feast at Omoide Yokocho
• Enjoy the picturesque view of Shinjuku Gyoen Park

Experience Heightened Visual At TeamLab Borderless Tokyo

Kick start your last day of the 4 days Tokyo itinerary by visiting teamLab Borderless at Mori Digital Art Museum for a dazzling, intriguing, and—as the name suggests— borderless experience!

This world-famous digital art museum showcases a group of fascinating artwork that brings you to otherworldly dimensions that will leave you in awe.

You can easily spend at least 2 to 3 hours exploring this interactive museum and immerse yourself into the abstract yet surreal dimensions that it offers.

Note: I particularly like the Forest of Resonating Lamps dimension!

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Due to its popularity, it is recommended to secure the teamLab Borderless entrance ticket online before heading to the museum.  

Teamlab Borderless Tokyo Entrance Fee: US$30 (3200 yen)

Visiting Hours: 10 am-7 pm (weekdays), 10 am-9 pm (weekends and public holidays)

How To Get To teamLab Borderless

1. Train

• Closest station: Aomi Station (Yurikamome Line)

Explore Shinjuku

After your mind-bending stint in teamLab Borderless, it is time to head over to Shinjuku—another bustling skyscraper district famed for entertainment, shopping, and business sites. 

Note: Shinjuku Station is the busiest railway station in the world that handles about two million passengers daily. You can imagine how bustling this district is. 

Nevertheless, there are several highlights that you need to visit in Shinjuku in this 4 days Tokyo itinerary; the Metropolitan Government Office, Shinjuku Gyoen Park, Golden Gai, and Omoide Yokocho.

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Visit The Metropolitan Government Office

These twin towers of 243-metre high are where the Tokyo metropolitan government offices are located at. 

Each tower has an observation deck and visitors can enter for free to admire the beautiful panoramic view of the Shinjuku district. 

Metropolitan Government Office Observation Deck Entrance Fee: Free

Visiting Hours: 9.30 am-11 pm

Enjoy The Picturesque View Of Shinjuku Gyoen Park

Shinjuku Gyoen Park is a beautiful park that is divided into 3 different gardens:

• Japanese Garden
• French Garden
• English Garden

This park is a popular hanami spot in Tokyo where it has more than 400 cherry trees planted nearby the English Garden. 

You can also admire the autumn foliage at the Japanese Garden where most of the maple trees are found here. 

Shinjuku Gyoen Park Entrance Fee: U$5 (500 yen)

Visiting Hours: 9 am-6 pm

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Bar-Hopping At Golden Gai

Golden Gai is a lively nightlife district in Kabukicho. 

You can easily find over 200 bars along the narrow alleyways where most of them can only cater to 6 customers at a time. 

Some bars are only accepting Japanese customers so make sure you look at the signage at the bar entrance before entering.  

If you are not a bar person, you can simply stroll along the streets to soak up the lively atmosphere filled with colourful and dazzling bar signages.

Have A Street Food Feast At Omoide Yokocho

Another Tokyo street for you to splurge on the cheap and mouth-watering local street food is none other than Shinjuku’s Omoide Yokocho. 

Also known as Piss Alley, this narrow street offers an authentic look and retro atmosphere of Japan that will transport you back in time.

Despite the nickname, the street food sold here is amazing! 

You have got to get your hands on the yakitori because that is the main star dish of Omoide Yokocho. 

You can also get affordable Japanese beer or sake to pair with your yakitori to celebrate the end of your Day 4 of Tokyo 4 days itinerary. 

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How To Get To Shinjuku

1. Train

• Closest station: Shinjuku Station (JR Chuo Line, JR Yamanote Line)

So this is it—a detailed 4 days Tokyo itinerary that will bring you to explore Tokyo. 

You can stay for a night before continuing your travel journey to the next Japanese city or flying out of the country the next day.  

Best Time To Visit Tokyo

March to May and late September to November are peak months to visit Tokyo as it is the spring and autumn seasons respectively. 

In spring, the weather is nice and the temperature is cool—making it relatively comfortable to explore around the city. You also get to soak in the beauty of cherry blossoms by having a picnic with the locals in Ueno Park or Shinjuku Gyoen Garden.

Whereas in autumn, you get to enjoy the view of fiery and vibrant autumn foliage with cool weather. One of the best places to visit for admiring autumn foliage in Tokyo is at Koishikawa Korakuen.  

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Because of these natural splendours, generally, the city is filled with tourists—be they local or international. Therefore, it is best to get your accommodation sorted at least 3 months before your visit to Tokyo. 

Note: The accommodation price is also higher during peak months. You can also expect to queue for even longer hours to get to the main highlights or visit the popular Tokyo’s eateries.

Summer in Japan (June to August) is hot and humid. Though the crowd of international visitors is smaller, expect to meet a large crowd of locals in theme parks especially in August due to the summer holiday.

The least crowded season to visit Tokyo is the winter season (December to February). The weather is chilly but still bearable. 

It is worth remembering that most establishments are closed during the New Year so the city might not be as bustling. 

Nevertheless, you get to see the local tradition up close where Japanese people make their way to shrines and temples on the first day of the year for prayers. 

How Many Days is enough for Tokyo

Ideally, you should spend at least 4 days exploring and crossing out Tokyo’s main highlights from your travel bucket list—and that is the reason why this 4 days Tokyo itinerary is crafted!

If you have an additional 1 to 2 days to spare, you can continue exploring less touristy parts of Tokyo and immerse yourself into the local culture and traditions by signing up for cooking classes or indulge in mouth-watering food fare. 

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Alternatively, you can also opt for a day trip to nearby towns from Tokyo for a change to a different side of Japan and get a break from the bustling city life by admiring the mesmerising natural splendours.

Additional Places To Go In Tokyo

If the travelling style of compacting every activity that you can find when exploring a travel destination is your cup of green tea, then you can consider adding these highlights into your 4 days Tokyo itinerary: 

Ghibli Museum

The Ghibli Museum is a popular art and animation museum in Japan—a must-visit attraction for Ghibli animation fans! 

You will get to learn the Japanese culture and animation history throughout the years while admiring the unique exhibits in the museum, giving the fairytale-like experience when you are in the museum. 

You can also visit its cafe and get some character souvenirs from its gift shop before making your way back to the city. 

Note: One of the animations produced by Studio Ghibli, Spirited Away, won an Oscar Award in 2003. 

Travel tip: To get the ticket, you will have to book it on the 10th 1 month before your visit to The Ghibli Museum. Make sure to get your ticket early as it can be sold out fast, especially on weekends. 

The Ghibli Museum Entrance Fee: US$10 (1000 yen)

Visiting Hours: 10 am-6 pm (Closed on Tuesdays)

Tokyo Disneyland 

If you are thinking about “What can you do in Tokyo for 4 days” apart from exploring the city, you can allocate 1 full day riding the different amusement rides in Tokyo Disneyland!

Some of the themes that you must visit in Tokyo Disneyland are Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, and Adventureland. 

If you are an adrenaline junkie, make sure to make your way to the all-famous rollercoaster ride Big Thunder Mountain in the Westernland. 

Tokyo Disneyland Entrance Fee: US$75 (8200 yen)

Visiting Hours: 10 am-7 pm

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Attend Sumo Tournament Or Practice

Sumo is Japan’s national sport that is loved by the citizens. 

Sumo tournaments are only held six times annually across the country, where Tokyo hosts three of the tournaments in January, May, and September respectively. 

So if your 4 day itinerary Tokyo coincides with the sumo tournament dates, make sure to grab this chance to watch this century-old tradition up-close with the locals!

Note: You will need to preorder the entrance ticket at least a month before the tournament kick starts.

Alternatively, you can also visit a sumo stable in Ryogoku district to watch the wrestler’s morning practice. 

To do this, you will have to sign up for a sumo guided tour and adhere to the rules strictly while you are in the gym. 

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Day Trips From Tokyo

Here are some of the day trips from Tokyo that you can consider planning for a short break from the metropolitan city in your 4 days Tokyo itinerary: 

1. Nikko

Nikko is one of the top day trip options from Tokyo among tourists. This beautiful town is easily reachable from Tokyo via shinkansen in less than 2 hours. 

Some of the main highlights to visit in Nikko are Toshogu Shrine, Taiyuin, and Rinnoji Temple. 

If you are in Nikko during autumn, make sure to make your way to Lake Chuzenji—a spectacular site to enjoy the mesmerising view of autumn foliage with the lake as the backdrop. 

Note: JR pass holders can board the shinkansen service from Tokyo to Nikko for free. 

To enjoy your day trip to Nikko without doing any planning, you can sign up for this Nikko private car tour.

2. Hakone

If you are keen to have a dip in the natural hot spring accompanied by a fascinating view in Japan, you can never go wrong at Hakone. 

You can reach Hakone from Tokyo in less than 2 hours by railway. 

Besides visiting hot springs, you can also include stops at Open Air Museum, Owakudani, and Lake Ashinoko in your Hakone day trip from Tokyo. 

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3. Mount Fuji

Some people do not consider their Tokyo trip to be complete without a trip to Japan’s highest mountain, Mount Fuji. 

The easiest way to get to Mount Fuji from Tokyo for a day trip is by direct bus, where the travel duration is less than 2 hours. 

If you are lucky, you can see the majestic, clear view of Mount Fuji at a closer distance at the Five Fuji Lake.  

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How To Get To Tokyo

You can get to Tokyo through:

• Narita Airport
• Haneda Airport

Narita Airport is located 60 kilometres away from Tokyo city. It handles most of the international flights.

Haneda Airport is nearer to central Tokyo, about 30 kilometres away. However, this airport is focusing more on domestic flights and fewer international ones.

From the airports, you can take either trains or limousine buses to reach Tokyo city to kick start your exciting 4 days Tokyo itinerary!

How To Get Around Tokyo

Before you head over to Tokyo, it is worth remembering that Tokyo is a gigantic city. 

It is the world’s most populous metropolitan city and therefore, you can expect its world-class public transportation network to be sprawled all over Tokyo to accommodate its 13 million city residents. 

For this 4 days Tokyo itinerary, the best transportation that you can opt for to get around the city is the subway system.

The intriguing subway map might make you feel dizzy but fret not—you can always rely on the Tokyo Subway Navigation app to make your way through the city like a local. 

Want to have a stress-free vacation in Japan? Check out the 16 best apps for travel to Japan that you need to get before flying into the country!

To get the most of your buck, you can get the subway passes before exploring Tokyo.

Alternatively, you can use the prepaid IC card to board the trains and subways conveniently by swiping at the card reader in the stations. 

The 2 IC cards that you can buy in Tokyo are Suica and Pasmo. You can also use other IC cards from other Japanese cities.   

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Taking public bus services to get to 1 attraction from another in Tokyo for this Tokyo 4 day itinerary is not recommended as you might find yourself spending more time travelling between places. 

You can also opt for a taxi to get around Tokyo. However, it is worth noting that taxi fare in Tokyo is high and you might need to spend a fortune on transportation especially if you are travelling solo.

Note: JR pass is not needed when you are only exploring Tokyo. This is because the city is well connected by its subway system. 

If you plan to visit a few other fascinating Japanese cities, getting a JR pass will be the ideal decision as it shortens the travel duration between cities at a lower price tag. 

Check out my detailed and jam-packed Japan 3-week itinerary to find out the major cities that you need to visit and must-do things when you are in Japan!

Where To Stay In Tokyo

To make the most of your 4 days in Tokyo as an international traveller, it is recommended to stay near Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, or Ginza. 

The accommodations in these centrally located areas in Tokyo are easily accessible with the great public transportation system. 

You can also get to most of the main highlights listed in this 4 days Tokyo itinerary conveniently.  

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Here are some of the recommendation accommodations in Tokyo that you can consider:

Near Tokyo Station

Budget: Sotetsu Fresa Inn

Mid-range: Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyobashi, Karaksa Hotel

Luxury: Hotel Ryumeikan, Marunouchi Hotel

Shinjuku

Budget: Imano Tokyo Hostel, Shinjuku City Hotel

Mid-range: Tokyu Stay Shinjuku, Hotel Rose Garden Shinjuku

Luxury: Tokyu Stay Yotsuya, Hyatt Regency Tokyo

Ginza

Budget: KOKO Hotel Ginza, Sotetsu Fresa Inn Ginza

Mid-range: Mercure Tokyo Ginza, Hotel Musse Ginza

Luxury: Millennium Mitsui Garden, Courtyard by Marriott Tokyo Ginza

If you are looking for a unique experience staying in a traditional Japanese inn, here are some recommendations: 

Ryokan: Taito Ryokan, Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu 

What To Eat In Tokyo

Tokyo is no doubt one of the greatest food cities in the world. 

It offers an overwhelming range of tempting, sinful, and mouth-watering local cuisine that you need to try to fully consider yourself a traveller who has been “try all, seen all” in this culturally rich Japanese city.

Here are the top 5 local iconic dishes that you need to get your hands on during the Tokyo 4 days itinerary: 

Tsukemen

This iconic ramen noodle dipping dish was invented by Kazuo Yamagishi in Tokyo back in the 1960s—one of the food fare that you need to try when you are in this bustling city. 

You will be served a bowl of soupless ramen and a bowl of thick broth when you order tsukemen. To enjoy the dish, simply dip the ramen into the broth and slurp it up!

One of the popular joints to try this innovative dish is none other than Tsukemen Gonokami Seisakusho. 

Address: 1F, 5-33-16 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku Tokyo

Telephone Number: 428-34-9424 (+81)

Operating Hours: 11 am-8 pm

Monjayaki

Similar to Okonomiyaki in Osaka, one needs to get their hands on Monjayaki in Tokyo. 

This savoury fried batter has additional ingredients that contribute to the runny texture of the dish—and it is radish!

Monja Mugi is the place that you need to visit for a serving of plate-licking Monjayaki.

Address: 1-9-15 Tsukishima, Chuo-ku Tokyo

Telephone Number: 3-3534-7795 (+81)

Operating Hours: 11.30 am-10.30 pm

Sushi

Of course, you can’t miss out on sushi especially when you are visiting the capital city of Japan!

Eateries ranging from classy Michelin-star restaurants to small standing bars, you will be spoiled by choices for sushi in Tokyo. 

If you are in for a great sushi quality at an affordable price, head over to Sushi no Midori. 

Note: There are several sushi branches of Sushi no Midori found around central Tokyo. 

Some outlets do not accept dine-in reservations for weekends and public holidays so make sure to check the website before making your plans in the 4 days Tokyo itinerary. 

Tempura

Tempura is the must-try deep-fried local snack made from vegetables or seafood that is totally worth the additional 30 minutes of exercise to burn off the calories. 

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You can get tempura from the street stalls or opt for a glamorous omakase dining experience at a tempura specialised high-end restaurant. 

Tempura Abe is the place that you need to go for wallet-friendly, authentic tempura cuisine with a great ambience. 

Note: Did I mention that Tempura Abe is also recommended by the Michelin Guide?

Address: 1-9-15 Tsukishima, Chuo-ku Tokyo

Telephone Number: 3-6228-6077 (+81)

Operating Hours: 11.30 am-9 pm

Japanese Buns 

You might feel overwhelmed when you enter Tokyo’s bakeries because there are too many scrumptious looking buns and pastries to pick from!

Some of the available bun flavours are matcha (green tea), sweet potato, red bean, or even curry.

If you are struggling with which pastries to get, heed my advice—just choose everything!

One of the popular places to get your share of Japanese buns is Ginza Kimuraya. This bakery is exceptionally famous for its century-old anpan (red bean bun).

Note: Ginza Kimuraya is also the country’s oldest bakery with a history dating back to 1874. 

Address: 4-5-7 Ginza, Chuo-ku Tokyo (Main store)

Telephone Number: 03-3561-0091

Operating Hours: 9 am-7.30 pm

Additional Resources For Tokyo Itinerary 4 Days

Here are some recommended Tokyo travel books to get if you would like to understand the Japanese culture and the city better before embarking on your 4 day Tokyo itinerary:  

• Lonely Planet Best of Tokyo 2020
• Tokyo Maze – 42 Walks in and around the Japanese Capital
• Culture Smart: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture 

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4 Days Tokyo Itinerary: Conclusion 

Here you go—a comprehensive and detailed guide that you can refer to and tweak to your heart’s content for your upcoming 4 days itinerary in Tokyo!

Though a bustling metropolitan city with high skyscrapers and modern shopping malls, you will also get to experience and immerse yourself into the century-old Japanese traditions in Tokyo—making Tokyo one of the must-visit travel destinations among international visitors.

Let me know in the comment section below if you have been to Tokyo, or you would like to share some interesting Tokyo travel experiences; I would love to hear from you!

Lastly, do share this information-loaded Tokyo itinerary with your family members and friends who are planning a trip to Tokyo—sharing is caring!

Arigato gozaimasu!