The Perfect Tokyo Itinerary 3 Days: How to See the Best of Japan’s Capital

Planning your Tokyo itinerary 3 days can feel overwhelming. Tokyo is one of the world’s largest cities, full of contrasts: ancient temples next to neon skyscrapers, peaceful gardens beside buzzing shopping streets. With the right plan, you can experience history, culture, and modern life in just three days. This guide shows you what to do in Tokyo for 3 days, including iconic landmarks, local secrets, and practical travel tips.

Day 1 – Tradition Meets Modern Tokyo

Morning: Asakusa and Sensō-ji Temple

• Visit Sensō-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, with its giant red lantern and bustling Nakamise shopping street.
• Try local snacks like melonpan (sweet bread) and ningyoyaki (doll-shaped cakes).
• Best time: arrive early to avoid crowds.

🎟 Book here → Tour of Asakusa

Midday: Tokyo Skytree

• Head to Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in Japan (634 m).
• Enjoy panoramic city views and shop in the Skytree Town mall.
• Perfect spot for photos of the skyline.

🎟 Book here → Tokyo Skytree

Afternoon: Ueno Park & Museums

• Walk through Ueno Park, famous for cherry blossoms in spring.
• Visit the Tokyo National Museum or the National Museum of Nature and Science.
• Relax at Shinobazu Pond with lotus flowers.

Evening: Akihabara – Electric Town

• Explore anime, manga, and gaming culture in Akihabara.
• Visit themed cafés or shop for electronics and collectibles.
• Don’t miss arcades like SEGA or Taito Station.

Day 2 – Modern Tokyo Highlights

Morning: Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue

• Start at the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest in the world.
• Pay respects to Hachiko, the loyal dog statue.

Midday: Harajuku & Takeshita Street

• Visit Takeshita Street, packed with quirky shops and colorful crepes.
• Explore Omotesando for luxury shopping and modern architecture.

Afternoon: Meiji Shrine

• Step into tranquility at Meiji Shrine, surrounded by a forest in the heart of Tokyo.
• Learn about Shinto rituals and write a wish on ema wooden plaques.

Evening: Shinjuku Nightlife

• Explore Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai, narrow alleys with tiny bars and yakitori stalls.
• Admire city views from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (free observatory).

Day 3 – Day Trip and Hidden Gems

Option 1: Nikko or Kamakura Day Trip

• Nikko: UNESCO shrines, waterfalls, and autumn leaves.
• Kamakura: The Great Buddha, temples, and beach vibes.

🎟 Book here → Kamakura tour

Option 2: Stay Local – Odaiba & Tsukiji

• Odaiba: futuristic island with teamLab Borderless museum, Rainbow Bridge views, and shopping.
• Tsukiji Outer Market: taste fresh sushi, wagyu skewers, and matcha sweets.

Local Secrets / Hidden Gems

• Yanaka District: a preserved old Tokyo neighborhood with temples, craft shops, and cats.
• Kagurazaka: cobblestone alleys with French cafés and traditional ryotei (restaurants).
• Shimokitazawa: vintage shops, live music, and indie coffee culture.

Practical Travel Tips for 3 Days in Tokyo

• Transport: Buy a Suica or Pasmo card for trains and subways.
• Airport Access: From Narita, use the Skyliner train (40 min). From Haneda, take the Tokyo Monorail.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–April) for cherry blossoms or autumn (October–November) for red leaves.
• Money: Japan is still cash-friendly. ATMs are available in 7-Eleven stores.
• Accommodation Tip: Stay near Shinjuku or Ueno for easy access to transport.

A well-planned Tokyo itinerary 3 days gives you the perfect balance between history, culture, food, and modern attractions. With just three days in Tokyo, you can walk through ancient temples like Sensō-ji, cross the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, taste sushi at Tsukiji, and explore hidden neighborhoods such as Yanaka or Shimokitazawa. This carefully designed Tokyo itinerary 3 days ensures you won’t feel rushed, yet you’ll experience the city’s contrasts—quiet shrines, neon-lit skyscrapers, traditional markets, and futuristic art museums.

If you’re visiting Japan for the first time, this Tokyo itinerary 3 days will introduce you to the essence of the capital while leaving enough flexibility to add your personal favorites. For repeat travelers, it’s also a great refresher, combining must-sees with local secrets. No matter your travel style, following this Tokyo itinerary 3 days will help you make the most of a short trip and create unforgettable memories in one of the world’s most exciting cities.

👉 Ready to plan your adventure? Save this guide, book your tours, and enjoy your three days in Tokyo!

FAQ – Tokyo Itinerary 3 days